Author's Babble: Please read the note at the end.
It was a much cooler night for springtime, however Ashlyn Solo didn't mind standing outside the grand ballroom of the capitol building. In fact, she preferred it over being inside where it was a little too warm and stuffy. A room full of political advisors and senators, Resistance and Ascension members; war officials and more. They were celebrating the new formation of the New Galactic Order, led by the newly appointed Leader (he insisted they dropped the word Supreme), his second in command, Vice-Leader Hux and the new political parties. A democracy that was based on checks and balances and created with the inhabitants of the Galaxy in mind.
Ash was proud of her husband and what he had accomplished, she was proud knowing that they had come this far after fighting through so much. Yet, it was bittersweet. She knew what they were giving up with this new life. There was no such thing as normalcy any longer. There would be consistent political gatherings, he would be busier; there was an expected etiquette from them now, and stars, the bodyguards. The constant surveillance. She was exhausted from it and it had only been a week since he took the position. While she knew she should be inside celebrating her husband and celebrating the victory of the Rebels and Ascension, she found herself needing a break from all the chaos. A moment to breathe; something simple.
Yet, the words of Leia continued to resonate within her. The reason Kylo Ren was able to accomplish such a feat was thanks to her love and support. And while her job wasn't as glamorous as fixing giant weaponized planets for a living, it meant more to her than anyone could possibly imagine. However, the change was still jarring and Ashlyn found herself wondering more and more if this new life was really going to be a curse in disguise.
"Is this what it's like when everything goes back to normal?" She asked the ghost that appeared next to her.
Anakin smiled somewhat sadly; he knew this was probably the last time he'd come to her. He'd grown rather attached the fiery redhead who kept his grandson in line. "It's an adjustment."
"All this time we talked about the end of the war and what things would be like when it was over; where I'd end up. I never once imagined I'd actually get here, let alone end up with the people I did. My friends; Ben. It's surreal and it's what I want. I know I do-" She looked at Anakin. "I just don't know how to."
"As I've told you from the beginning; have faith. You've made it through the worst of it. Now, it's time to enjoy what you're helping create."
"And if I have no place in this? If I have no important role to play?"
He chuckled. "Ash; even though you're not going off on wild adventures while saving the galaxy; you're still just as important as before. Besides, someone has to keep my grandson on track."
She smiled a little more then. "Why does it feel like this is somehow a 'goodbye'?"
"You don't need more anymore. You got to where destiny has needed you-" He smirked slightly. "It took some time to get traction, but, you did it." Anakin teased. "I think you can take it from here, Grey User."
Sadly, she nodded. She knew he wouldn't be around forever to guide them. However, for the time she did have him, she was grateful. "Thanks." Anakin nodded, the Force Ghost began to fade. Another chapter in her life coming to a close then. He was right, even though she wasn't fighting in a war, she had purpose. She was still saving the galaxy but in a different way.
"Why do I get the feeling you're overthinking it all again." Ash jumped slightly at the unexpected voice, looking to the man in black that found her outside on the balcony. He was admiring her; he could get used to seeing her in dresses. It was such a different change. However, he still loved his wife who was a mechanic at heart and dressed like one. Yet, right now, he appreciated the dress on such an occasion.
Ash grimaced as he came closer, standing next to her as they stared out at the courtyard garden below; illuminated by the beautiful moon of Chandrila. "Sorry, it's just been a lot. I haven't really had a time to catch up on all these changes."
"And for that I'm sorry." Ren admitted as he leaned forward on the balcony railing. "It should slow down once everything is in place. Setting up a new government is a lot harder than I thought."
She laughed. "No kidding." He gave her a dazzling smile in reply. "And I'm happy for you; for what you've accomplished. I really am. I get it, things are going to be busy for a while. I'll still be here by your side through all of it. It's just a lot to take in; someone like me isn't really used to… well, any of this."
He snorted. "I told you that you couldn't just simply be Ashlyn Novafall anymore."
She smirked. "It's Solo now."
His arm wrapped around the small of her back, pulling her closer. "How could I ever forget that?" He teased. "No matter what happens now, I will always make time for you. Things are going to be hectic for a while, but, I will be there." Ash wrapped her arms around his neck, hooking her hands loosely. "I'm only where I am today because of you." He said. "That was never a question; never any doubt. You're the reason any of this has been possible." His smile dropped when he noticed his wife was now crying. "What's wrong? I thought you'd be happy to know that?"
Ash sniffled, pulling back from him as she wiped her eyes. "Ignore me, I'm hormonal!" To which Kylo Ren couldn't help but begin to laugh. "This whole pregnancy thing is really getting to me." She laughed through the tears as her hands found the ever-growing bump. At twelve weeks, it was blatantly obvious now that Ash was indeed pregnant.
He placed his hand gently over hers, lingering for a moment as he looked at her stomach. Stars, that was another adventure he hadn't had the time to think about. Being a father. "We'll make it work. All of it."
"Promise?"
He smirked, leaning down and kissing her. "Anything for you." He looked back into the ballroom entrance, Phasma had begun walking out. To everyone's surprise that night, she was also in a dress. Something Ash was convinced she'd never see again. Ren sighed, forcing a smile as he asked. "We have to go back in?"
Phasma saw the hesitation on their faces before she smiled. "Actually, I was going to ask you both what your excuse will be while I let you sneak off to be alone."
Ash smiled brightly then. "Tell them I wasn't feeling well. They all know I'm pregnant."
Phasma nodded. "Will do. See? I'm not the worst bodyguard."
"Never said otherwise." Ash agreed before grabbing her husband's hand and lacing her fingers with his. "Can we?"
"She's putting so much effort into covering for us, I can't think of a reason why we shouldn't respect her wishes." Ren mused, winking to Phasma before the two snuck off the balcony to be alone. A moment together that seemed so far and few inbetween these days. Phasma understood, she saw Ash more than Ren did as of late. She was more than happy to let this one slide.
"Do I have to fire the head of the guard now?" Phasma turned to see Hux, adjusting the button on his sleeve as he grinned at her.
"I dare you, Armitage." Phasma teased.
"Where did they go?" He asked, the two walking further out onto the balcony and away from the party.
Phasma shrugged. "They know better than to leave the planet, if that's what you're asking."
Hux grimaced. "Actually, I hadn't thought about it. But now that you mention it…"
"They needed alone time, far away from all of this. Their time together is so far and few between now. They needed it."
"How nice of you."
Phasma scoffed. "I can be nice."
Hux took her hand in his, kissing the top of it lovingly. "I know you can be." Phasma rolled her eyes at the gesture, although secretly loving it. "I promised you that after all of this was over that it was time to start anew."
"You did." Phasma replied suspiciously.
"And now that we're here; Ren is now the Leader of the Galactic Order, I'm second in command, you're head of all military affairs. I think we've finally found our time."
Phasma's eyes went wide. "You're not going to ask me to marry you, are you?"
Hux scoffed. "I was going to, but with a reaction like that now I'm not so sur-" She kissed him. A forward gesture she would have never done. However, a moment like that warranted it in her eyes. He grinned, reaching his hand in his pocket and taking out a simple, silver band. "So, is that a 'yes'?"
"You know Ren is going to be teasing you mercilessly." Phasma added as Hux placed the ring on her finger.
"He will only have so much time to do so as I'll be getting even once he becomes a father." Hux explained as Phasma looked at her new ring fondly. A simplistic ring for a woman who did not personally care for flashy things.
"Stars, what the hell has happened to all of us. First Ren gets married, impulsively I might add, and now we're engaged-" Phasma gawked. "Ren is having a child. Is this what it feels like to have a normal life?"
"As normal as anyone in our predicament can have." Hux agreed, taking her hand in his. "Let's go distract everyone inside with our good news before they start looking for Ren." Phasma could only laugh; unable to hide her smile.
They snuck away down the moonlit hallways, further and further from the hustle and bustle of the celebrations. Their fingers still laced as they silently walked, the moment alone was all Ash could really ask for. Something she didn't realize she could miss so much until it was too late. "Are you going to make another lightsaber?" She asked, curiously.
Ren hummed contemplatively. "I suppose when I have the time I will. I'll need a new kyber crystal; a hilt."
"I'm sure I can find us some spare parts on the destroyer." Ash offered. "The crystal I can't help with."
"When we travel to other systems we can locate some."
Ash sighed. "I won't be able to travel that much with this little guy." She nodded to her stomach.
"We'll travel for as long as you're able." Ren said. "Besides, the closer we are to his arrival, I will make a point to stay home."
Ash frowned slightly. "Is this home now?"
"It is if you want it to be."
"There's no way we can convince them to move to Maridun, is there?"
He chuckled. "I'm afraid not, Starshine."
She let out a dramatic sigh. "I assumed as much. Besides, our apartment is pretty nice here. We have the extra room for the baby." She laughed. "It's weird saying that, the idea of being a mother hasn't really hit me. It hasn't really had time to with everything that's going on."
"We'll have to start accepting it soon, you're already three months."
"It's going to go fast." Ash said. "Before we know it, it'll be over, we'll be parents. You'll be a bad influence on him-"
He frowned. "No, I won't. If anyone is the troublemaker in this relationship, it's you."
Ash scoffed as Ren's frown softened as he smirked deviously. "You know that's not true."
"Fine-" Ren agreed. "I suppose I am the more mischievous one. You're an enabler, though."
Ash rolled her eyes. "I'll accept the charges, Leader Ren."
His smile dropped almost immediately at that as the two stopped walking, finding themselves all alone in the hallway; the music from the ball faint in the distance. "Speaking of things we aren't used to..."
"You will be someday." Ash replied assuringly as she reached her hand up to touch his cheek. "We both have a lot of adjusting to do, and I'm glad that I get to do so with you."
His hand found her, taking it gently into his as he removed it from his cheek and pulled her close. The two now slowly swaying to the distant music as Ash put her head down on his chest. "You have no idea how grateful I am for you, Starshine." He said softly.
She smiled, a sense of relief washing over her as the two continued to sway back and forth. The realization overtaking them that even though it would be hard, things were going to be okay. They were going to be okay.
Six and a Half Months Later...
Ash frowned as she stared down at her now enormous belly. Granted, it was enormous to her, regardless what anyone else had to say contrary to her belief. He was kicking up a storm; her little monster, as she called him. Ren, however, did not find that new name as funny as she did. Either way, that was his nickname. It had been for nearly for the past few months now. Ash was growing sick of the constant kicking and wanted nothing more than to meet her son already. And although Kylo Ren didn't say as much, she knew he wanted the same thing (minus the kicking, he found that hilarious and would gladly touch his wife's stomach to feel it).
Things had changed and drastically, like they knew they would. The full overhaul of the old ways was reaching its end as the new order came forward. And although everyone had their own fears in what kind of leader Kylo Ren would become, he proved them all wrong. His promises had been kept. And as the new Leader of the New Galactic Order, planets all over the Galaxy were finally becoming united. Planets were seeing a drastic shift and change as slum lords were defeated and aid went to those who needed it. While it was still early, Ash was proud of what her husband was accomplishing. It was nearly perfect, in her eyes.
Even though he was gone for a majority of the day, Kylo Ren always made time, like he promised, to be with his wife at the end of each and every day. Even when she could no longer travel with him due to her pregnancy, he would find little ways to contact her whenever he could. He made good on his promises and Ash was grateful. It made any strain on their relationship almost nonexistent. And in keeping his word, when Ash was closer to her due date, he remained on Chandrila. He was adamant about it.
She rubbed her stomach, shushing the child that was practically rolling around inside her before groaning. "You better not be a troublemaker like your father, I swear I will ground you the minute you come out." She threatened to her stomach. He stopped for a brief moment before continuing his new kicking routine. Ash groaned again. "That is if you ever decide to come out." She huffed, hearing the door to their apartment open. He was back from wherever the hell he was needed today. More meetings; more conversations about fixing the galaxy. It was a lot of work, she understood that.
"Are you bargaining with my son again?" He asked knowingly; his smirk evident in his voice as he joined his wife on the balcony. He admired her; how beautiful she looked right in that moment. Even with the clear and present aggravation on her face over their very rambunctious child; he had never loved her more. "He's not going to listen. He's stubborn, like you."
Ash frowned. "Is that why he hasn't shown up yet?"
Ren snorted, resting his elbows on the balcony and leaning over just enough to see the beautiful night that was engulfing the planet of Chandrila. "Probably."
"You know-" Ash began. "He still needs a name."
"I thought you were dead set on calling him little monster forever?" Ren retorted somewhat sarcastically and overall teasingly.
Ash grinned, reaching over and taking his hand in hers. "I was, but perhaps I can be swayed with the right name." Ren scoffed, squeezing her hand gently. "How did the meeting today go?"
His expression dropped only slightly as he exhaled sharply through his nostrils. "Leia believes we're making progress. She says I need to have a little more patience. However, I'm afraid if I have too much patience, things won't get done."
"You can have patience and still get things done." Ash agreed with Leia, something Ren usually hated. Instead, he sighed, standing upright and pulling Ashlyn closer to him. As he did, the child within Ashlyn began to flutter like crazy, Ash started laughing at the sensation. "Unlike your son, apparently. He has no patience." Ren smirked, placing his hand on her stomach. In an instance, the child quieted down. Ash glared when he did. "That's not fair, he listens to you."
Ren's smirk dropped as he looked down at her stomach, both hands were on it now as he frowned contemplatively. "I have a name."
"Really?"
"With your blessing, of course." She gave him a funny look, almost expecting something crazy. "I think we should call him Jacen."
Ash's jaw fell slack; her face growing a little hot as she tried her best not to show any of the tears that were beginning to form in her eyes. "Yeah?" She asked, her voice cracking. Of all names, he chose the one that meant the most to her. He was willing to name their child in honor of her younger brother. It meant the world to her, she didn't have to tell him that. He already knew.
He nodded, looking back up at her as he removed one of his hands from her stomach and gently placed it on her cheek. His thumb wiping a few of the tears she was trying so hard to keep in. "Jacen Solo has a nice ring to it."
Ash blinked away some of the tears in her eyes, her hand finding his as it rested on her cheek. "Thank you…" Ren smiled slightly, leaning down to kiss his wife, only to stop as she jerked back in pain. "Ah-" She hissed, her hands on her stomach now as Kylo Ren froze in sheer panic. Ash forced a laugh, as she typically did whenever in pain. "I think he liked it too-" She said through a very forced exhale.
"Are you okay?" Ren asked, visible concern on his face.
"Yeah-" She hissed, albeit still calm. "Just need to get me to the doctor now."
Suddenly, the situation grew real as he realized exactly what was happening. "Is he-?" Ren couldn't finish his sentence. "Are you-?"
Ash forced a smile, her jaw tightening slightly from another wave of pain. "Darling, I love you, but if you don't go get a doctor right now I'm going to kill you."
His hand ran through his hair as he quickly made his way to the front door. But not before uttering a few curse words in panic as he did.
Ash looked down at her stomach, another contraction coming through as she hissed again. "Okay, okay, I get it. You like to make an entrance."
Lights flickered and the glass cabinets of the medical room shattered as Ash yelled in pain. Her hands gripping the bed tightly as the main staff doctor tried to coax her into pushing. She didn't want to push anymore. She was tired of pushing. They had to kick Kylo Ren out of the room twice for threatening anyone that caused his wife any pain (forgetting the fact that it really wasn't the doctors fault, this also in turn forced him to give his new constructed lightsaber to his mother. Another thing he was not happy about. However, he knew she'd protect it and not corrupt the brilliant red crystal within it). He was currently on his last chance as he stood next to the bed, rubbing his wife's back as she tried to push once more.
In the waiting lobby; the newlyweds Hux and Phasma were the first to arrive, followed by Leia. The trio did the only thing they could do in that moment. They sat around, waiting for the news that Ash gave birth. Hux was skimming through his datapad, every so often looking up as the lights flickered around them. He'd purse his lips and focus his attention back to the pad. "Are we taking bets if they kick Ren out for a third time?" He mused.
Another shatter of glass could be heard down the hall. Phasma sighed. "Put me in for 500 credits."
Leia looked at the recent newlyweds in amusement. "Something tells me you two have made bets on my son before."
Phasma smirked. "I've won all of them so far." Hux rolled his eyes as the waiting area door slid opened to reveal two familiar faces.
Leia stood as Rey rushed in, excitedly nervous as she hugged Leia. "We came as soon as we could."
"You both didn't have to rush, you were on your mission." Leia explained, hugging the girl tightly before hugging Finn next.
"She was too excited to wait." Finn replied, nudging Rey playfully. "Besides, we left the camp in good care."
"I suppose everything has been successful so far?" Leia asked.
"Yeah, actually. We've found several Force Sensitives and we're building a sanctuary for them with the help of Maz Kanata and the new Galactic Order." Rey explained. The lights flickered again. Rey and Finn looked around nervously. "Is that… normal?"
"It is when you're a Force User in labor." Leia explained gently. "Might as well sit, they could be a while."
The door opened again as four more familiar faces practically stumbled into the waiting room. Brass and Poe nudging passed each other to be the first one in, both stopping to awkwardly mumble their apologies for being late as BB-8 rolled in blipping excitedly. The last to enter was the Wookiee behind them as he roared in aggravation before wandering over to Leia.
Leia smirked. "Glad you made it." Chewbacca roared again as he sat down next to Leia; he looked utterly ridiculous sitting in the small chair considering how tall he naturally was.
"So, did we miss it?" Poe asked, running his hand through his hair.
"You're surprisingly on time." Phasma confirmed.
The lights flickered again. "Is that uh-?" Poe began.
"It's fine." The rest of the group replied almost in unison, no one bothering to explain that it was Ashlyn.
Poe made a face before walking over to where Hux and Phasma were, nodding to them as he offered his hand to Hux. "Congratulations on the whole marriage thing. Brass just informed me."
Hesitantly, but not out of distaste or anything of that sort, Hux reached forward and took Poe's hand. "Thank you, pilot."
"He's a Commander, dear." Phasma reminded him sarcastically and yet somewhat gently. "Speaking of which, I'm glad you were able to leave your post from the Felucia system."
"If it weren't for you contacting Brass, I wouldn't have known." Poe truly was grateful. Phasma had instructed Brass to find Poe while he was on a peaceful scout mission in the Felucia system. Of course, when Brass arrived to inform him, it turned into a race to see who could get back to Chandrila first. However, that was information the two would keep to themselves, even though Poe clearly won.
"Hey-" Brass nodded to Finn and Rey who were sitting together, their hands clasped. "When did this become a thing?"
"It's always been a thing." Poe chimed in with a smirk as he walked over to Brass, draping his arm around him. "They just finally got it right."
"Nice." Brass nodded in approval. For the first time since their relationship became a thing, Rey or Finn did not pull apart from the other. Instead, they merely smiled and simply accepted it. This was what they had both wanted for a long time and finally they were making it a reality.
"It's nice having everyone back together again." Leia commented as she looked at the group. "So much has changed; Armitage and Gwendoline are married now. Finn and Rey are together and off helping Force Sensitives find their way. Brass and Poe are leading the outreach program for far off planets. We've come so far from such frayed beginnings." She said fondly.
The group exchanged glances; they really had come so far. No one in that waiting room could have ever imagined that life would have gone the way it had. Everything had come together; destinies had intertwined and created something wonderful. Their paths laid out before them, they were connected now forever. A feat that none of them thought possible all things considered. And now, here they were. A dysfunctional yet happy family.
The door to the medic wing opened then as Kylo Ren, looking tired and yet somewhat accomplished, walked into the waiting room. The room quieting as they eagerly awaited to hear. "Jacen Solo; seven pounds, eight ounces. Nineteen inches."
The waiting room erupted into applause and cheers as they stood from their seats and walked over to congratulate the new father. Leia hugging him first; and for the first time in a long time, he hugged back without any resistance. Even when the Wookiee hugged him, he didn't have any malice. No, Kylo Ren was happy. He was extremely happy.
He seemed so small as he silently slept in her arms. Ash stared down at the newborn fondly; for such a monster inside her he was such an angel now that he was in the galaxy. Stars, her son. Her little Jacen Solo. He was perfect. He was strong with the Force; he was everything she had dreamt he would be. She tried to place whose features he had. His nose was definitely hers, but the dark patch of hair on his head was definitely Ren's.
When the door opened, she was happy to see Kylo Ren followed by familiar faces. They knew they all couldn't go in at once and gladly let Leia and Rey be the first two allowed in. Immediately, Kylo Ren was at his wife's side and scooping up the baby in his arms. A battle she knew she'd be having for a while with him. The two simply wanted to hold him, however, Ash knew she had to let him have some time with Jacen as well.
"You're a natural." Leia commented, her heart full as she watched her son hold her grandson.
Rey had gone closer to the bed to hug Ash. "Congratulations!"
"I'm so happy you could be here." Ash said, hugging her tightly. "I've missed you so much. You'll have to tell me everything. How the mission is going; how are you and Finn?"
Rey laughed. "We can get to that, I'm here for a few days!"
Ren, somewhat reluctantly, because he didn't want to let his son go, passed him to Leia. She held her newborn grandson, looking down at him lovingly. "Jacen?" She asked curiously.
"He's named after Ash's brother." Kylo Ren explained.
"It's a beautiful name." Leia agreed as she continued to hold her grandson. She remembered fondly the day that Ben was born. Han had been the same way, constantly wanting to hold him. It was amusing to her that her son had turned out to be like him without even knowing it.
Their first few nights home with Jacen were tough. He cried often late in the night and Ash was up all hours in the night with him. She had to coax Ren back to bed, telling him he had a busy day in the morning, which he did. Reluctantly, he would agree and Ash would take care of Jacen.
However, by their fifth night, Ashlyn was exhausted to say the least and needed rest. Yet, something felt a little off. She was expecting Jacen to be crying, perhaps even be hungry at this point. Yet, nothing. Her maternal alarm clock woke her up in the dead of night because of it. She stretched lazily; feeling every joint in her body release all tension as she did. She turned her head to look at her sleeping husband, only to come up empty handed. He wasn't there. She pursed her lips, her mind immediately racing to the worst possible outcome that they were kidnapped by Raiders or something ridiculous like that, as she removed herself from the bed.
She yawned; sleep deprivation taking over. Having an infant was more than worth the lack of sleep. However, even just an ounce of sleep was too tempting. Yet, here she was, walking around their home to find out where the hell her husband had wandered off to.
Ash found him the moment she walked into the living room. She saw his dark locks dipping ever so slightly off the side of the couch where he laid. A small smile formed on her lips as she walked over to wake him, only to stop when she saw the tiny infant sleeping soundly on his chest.
Her heart was beyond full as she took in the sight in front of her before sitting down next to the couch as she rested her head on the very small space next to Kylo Ren's arm. The sound of his calm and steady breathing relaxing her as her eyes closed. 'I didn't want to wake you…' His deep voice echoed in her head.
She lifted her head, looking up at her husband. His tired eyes were open now as he stared back at her. 'Everything okay?'
'He was fussing. I took care of it.' Ash smiled a little more as she leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek. 'He's dreaming.'
'Stop listening in on our baby's thoughts.' She scolded him playfully.
'They're just images of colors now. Nothing too exciting.'
'Yet you're still listening.' She reminded him as he smirked. 'You should go to bed, I can take him.'
'I'm taking the day tomorrow. I want to be home with both of you. You need the sleep.'
Ash frowned. 'Are you sure?'
'Positive. Go back to sleep, Starshine.'
She put her head down on the end of the couch cushion again, smiling softly. 'In a minute.'
He chuckled. 'You'll be asleep in a minute.'
'I know…' And she was. However, she was more content sleeping there with the two of them than anything. Suddenly, Ashlyn Solo was very complacent with how her life was. She was going to be just fine in her adjustment to normalcy.
Ten Years Later…
In the span of ten years so much had happened. The New Galactic Order was thriving as planets began to prosper, even though they never had the chance to in the first place. Leader Ren had done the seemingly impossible with his second in command, Armitage Hux. They unified the Galaxy. A feat that not many thought possible.
In the ten years, the tight knit group had separated; Rey and Finn had married and were taking care of their successful mission to help Force Sensitives around the Galaxy. Their new-found Academy on Takodana, along with the help of Maz Kanata. Six years prior, they welcomed a little girl to the world; Lianna and Rey was expecting once again.
Brass and Poe had both been promoted to general status and were in charge of the outreach program for foreign aid among the systems that needed it. The duo was practically unstoppable at their new positions and took their jobs seriously. Well, as seriously as two gambling fools who loved their competitive sides just as much as their jobs. Needless to say, the amount of Sabacc games held on board their ships were overwhelming to the point where Hux eventually had to step in and send them multiple warnings about their behavior. It didn't stop them, it just made them careful to not get caught.
That left Hux and Phasma, the two were still married without children. The two prefered it that way. They were happy with their lives as is. Although, Hux would argue that he and Phasma were like second parents to Jacen at times, considering he had the same mischievous tendencies as his parents. The two were constantly getting caught up in his mischief. Yet, they wouldn't have it any other way.
That left the remaining Force Users. Ash continued performing maintenance on anything and everything she could get her hands on and even held workshops on Chandrila to teach upcoming and current maintenance workers. However, she found out early on just how difficult it was to teach those who didn't exactly have a natural ability with the Force and maintenance and learned very quickly just how much the Force really helped her. That didn't matter, she kept the dream alive and continued the workshops as often as she could. Somehow, she had a feeling that Sid would have been proud of her for doing so.
Their son, Jacen Solo, was everything they could have ever dreamed of. He was wicked smart, like his father, which at times Ash said would be quite the trouble the older he got. He was strong willed like his mother, or stubborn as Ren called it. He had dark locks like Ren and the same golden eyes. He was a very curious child; he always wanted to know more and was never satiated with simple answers. He needed to know as much as he could. He was the light of their lives; the reminder of their hard work and effort and just how crazy destiny could be.
It was a solemn day; the skies were even grey and raining on Chandrila. It seemed only right, at least in Ashlyn's mind. Leia had passed away peacefully the previous night, although much earlier than anyone could have ever imagined. They expected her to live forever due to how strong she was. It was a very large funeral, a huge outpour of love as people from across the Galaxy came to pay their respects.
Ash stood between Kylo Ren and Jacen. Ren was silent, staring at the new grave sight of his mother. His face seemingly expressionless, yet Ash could feel the conflicting emotions radiating within him. She knew their son could too. She gently placed her hand on Jacen's shoulder and motioned for him to come with her. 'We'll start heading home…' Ren only nodded. "Come along, love." She said softly to Jacen as the two began walking away and back to the senate building where their apartment was. "There were a lot of people here the past few days, your grandmother was a very strong lady. I'd be surprised if the entire galaxy wasn't in mourning over her." Ash explained. "She lead two resistances against two awful regimes."
"Dad told me she was a Rebel Scum." Jacen said.
Ash smiled. "It's not a bad thing."
"He said you were one too at some point." Ash hummed in agreement. "Was dad a Rebel?"
"Not exactly." Ash cautiously explained. "He was simply different than anything else out there."
Jacen nodded, trying to understand it all. "Someone said that people used to be afraid of him."
"Like I said, he was simply different than anything else out there. We all come from different backgrounds, different destinies, but we all came together for the right reasons." Ash could feel the change as the sadness began growing within her son. "Hey, it's okay to be upset over your grandmother." She said softly, pulling him close to her as they continued walking. "Your dad is sad too."
Jacen frowned. "But dad's never sad. He said we have to control our emotions if we want to be strong with the Force."
Ash pursed her lips. "While that's true, that doesn't mean we aren't allowed to feel. That's what makes us what we are. When we connect with the Force, we feel all aspects of it. Good and bad. Hiding away from our emotions are not allowing ourselves to feel can be hurtful towards our balance." If anyone knew about loss and dealing with it, it was Ash. She had battled with it for so long, but once she learned to control it, wonderful things came of it. Such as where they were now.
"Dad says I have to learn to be balanced, like you are."
"Well, you are an interesting part of the Force. You're like me; Grey. You have an easier time balancing with the right training."
"How come I'm Grey and not a Dark User?"
"You're special." Ash smiled. "Your dad is a Dark User, it's how he connects with the Force. Like how your Aunt Rey connects with the Light. You can connect with both sides."
Jacen frowned slightly. "Dad called Aunt Rey a scavenger. What does that mean?"
She grimaced. "Aunt Rey used to find parts inside old battleships and trade them in for money… but, you best keep that between you and me and not tell your Aunt what he said."
He nodded, understanding that sometimes grownups had a weird way about things. "Are we going to be training again tomorrow?"
"Possibly. We just need to give your dad some time." Ash had an idea then. "How about we make him something delicious to eat and have some hot chocolate before bed." Jacen beamed at the suggestion.
The two put their plan in action as they made as much comfort food as they could think of. Jacen helping in the kitchen as much as Ash would let him before instructing him to set the table. Once it was ready, Kylo Ren had walked through the door. The smell of something familiar forcing a small smile on his face as he saw his wife placing a casserole dish on the table while is son finished setting the table. "What's all this?"
Ash quickly nodded to Jacen, as if they had a secret plan all to themselves. They did. And soon Jacen quickly put down the plate and rushed over to Kylo Ren, hugging him tightly. A warm welcome home that even Kylo Ren couldn't deny as he bent down and picked up the dark-haired boy, grunting as he did. "Stars, you're getting heavy." He teased. "Pretty sure you're going to be taller than me." He said, hugging him tightly before putting Jacen down again. He walked over to Ash and kissed her lovingly. "Thank you."
"Of course." She said with a smile of her own.
"Mom said we could have hot chocolate after dinner." Jacen piped in, the ten-year-old beaming over the promise of chocolate.
Ren's brown quirked upward. "Did she?" Ash shrugged as a mischievous smile formed on her lips. "Then I suppose we're having hot chocolate after dinner."
"Yes!" The two exclaimed, high fiving in the kitchen before sitting down at the table along with Kylo Ren. Although it was a sad day, he had his family to remind him exactly where his place in all this was.
The promise of hot chocolate was delivered as the family sat around in the living area drinking it. Jacen had his nose in the very worn and tattered book on planets as he sat on the floor. Ash was curled up against Kylo Ren's side. Jacen was asking questions about planets and Ren tried to answer them as best he could. His curiosity reminded him of a time that felt so long ago, when he and Ashlyn sat in his apartment on StarKiller, looking at that very book. It was a great distraction that Kylo Ren was grateful for. "What about this one?" Jacen asked, pointing to a familiar planet.
Ash leaned forward, seeing the yellow and green planet and smiling fondly before curling back into Kylo Ren's side. "Would you like to tell him about Maridun, dear?"
Ren smirked knowingly. "Another night, perhaps when he's older." Ren teased. "For now, I think it's time someone gets ready for bed."
"Five more minutes?" Jacen groaned.
Ash and Ren exchanged quick glances, she knew exactly why he wanted Jacen to go to bed. Any other night, he probably would have given in to his son. "You heard your father, love. Go get ready for bed. I'll meet you in there for a story."
Another grumble from Jacen before he finally got up. He waved his hand over the book, the cover closing instantly, before he turned and wandered off to his room.
"He's getting stronger each day." Ash commented, levitating her cup of hot cocoa from the table to her hands. "Phasma has taught him a few combat stances too."
Ren's brow quirked upward as Ash got off the couch then. "Phasma is training him in combat?"
"He watched me train with her. He was curious. He's learning proper technique, and I think it's great for him to learn control."
Ren took a sip from his mug, the hot chocolate no longer as hot as he had hoped for. He was more preoccupied enjoying family time than actually drinking it. "Thank you for taking him from the funeral today. It's not exactly something I wanted him to see, but it was important for him to be there."
Ash walked over to the kitchen, taking her mug and placing it in the sink. "He had some questions about your mother; the Rebels and your allegiance before all this."
"What did you tell him?" Ren asked, getting off the couch and joining his wife in the kitchen.
"Just that your story is different." Ash said with a shrug. "Everyone has a story. How we got here to this point; our paths met and the rest is history." She took the mug from Ren and placed it in the sink along with hers as she began rinsing them. "I would also appreciate it if you didn't call Rey a scavenger in front of him. Last we need is for him to accidentally call his Aunt that and start another war."
Ren smirked. "At least I didn't call Finn a traitor."
Ash sighed. "Don't call his Uncle that either." She replied dryly. "Rey is due any day now in case you were wondering why they weren't here."
"I remember." Ren confirmed, continuing their small-talk. "This is their second?"
Ash was actually astounded that he remembered how many children Rey had. "Yeah; another girl."
"Maybe we should have another." He was clearly joking, but that didn't stop Ash from nearly falling over as she dropped the mug in the sink. Luckily, it didn't break.
"You're mad." She said, unable to hide her laughter as he wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. "You're absolutely mad."
He kissed her cheek. "Clearly."
"How are you holding up?" Ash asked, knowing full well that her husband was not exactly one for discussing feelings, or rather just his feelings.
At first, he said nothing; instead he exhaled sharply. "I'm fine." At least he was honest as he held her just a little bit closer, squeezing her gently. "I am grateful that she was such a prominent part of this chapter in our lives." So diplomatic of an answer, she thought. "How is he?"
"Sad." Ash admitted. "I don't think he truly understands death just yet. He will the more he connects with the Force. He'll figure out how to balance. But, yes, for now he's upset as any child would be over losing their grandmother."
Ren pulled away then as Ashlyn turned around to face him. "And are you okay?" He asked her.
She smiled slightly. "I'm okay. I'll miss our daily chats. I'll also miss having a babysitter when we want alone time." She teased as Ren lifted her up on the counter, her legs wrapping around his waist as he wrapped his arms around her.
"We can always make Hux do it." He suggested with a smirk before kissing Ash.
"I promised him a story-" She reminded him gently before kissing him again. Even after all this time, they were still crazy about one another. Their bond still stronger than ever, connecting them in ways not many could ever understand.
"It can wait, right?" He suggested, nipping on her bottom lip. Their moment abruptly ended when a crash was heard from Jacen's room; nothing too alarming, but a crash nonetheless coming from Jacen's room. Both Ash and Ren sighed. "Someone is practicing the Force and not getting ready for bed."
Ash smiled, kissing him one last time before scooting off the counter. "He gets his disobedience from you."
Ren frowned. "Does not."
"Does too." She teased as she went to check on their son. On the floor was one of the old circle training droids; it had been deactivated a while ago. Like Ren had said, Jacen was most definitely practicing. He tried to look innocent as he jumped into his bed, looking very suspicious as Ash walked in. "Okay you-" She couldn't hide her smile. "It's time for bed."
"Do I not get a story now?" He asked with his golden puppy dog eyes. Stars, he looked so much like his father sometimes. Particularly when trying to get out of trouble.
Ash just sighed lovingly. "You still get a story, love." Of course, she gave in. She sat down next to him, tucking in the blankets to make sure he was snuggled up tightly. "What story would you like?"
"The one I like!" He answered excitedly.
"You've heard that one a million times." The baritone voice said as he joined them now. He stood in the doorway of his son's room, looking at the sight before him fondly.
"It's my favorite." Jacen explained, now pleading with his mother. "Please, mom! Please!"
Ash smiled softly, looking back at Kylo Ren. "To be fair, it's my favorite too." He smirked, folding his arms over his chest as he leaned against the doorframe, nodding for her to continue. Ash looked back at her son, brushing his dark locks with her hand. "Then it's lights out, got it?"
He nodded eagerly. "Yes, ma'am."
'He's literally a mini you. A troublemaker.' She could hear him chuckle in her mind as she began.
"This is the story of the Commander and the Mechanic…"
Final Thought: It's bittersweet. I started this story over a year ago after having a crazy dream about Kylo Ren and this mechanic. The chapter where the light falls on him (stars, that was chapter 6… so freaking long ago), was basically the dream I had. From there I started the ridiculous brainstorming of where this story could go, wrote the chapter of their final showdown and knew this is where this story was going.
Originally, I had three endings I wanted to do. The first one was that he would kill Ash in their final showdown and Rey would end him. That was the ending I thought you guys would kill me over. Then there was the ending that he decides to give up the opportunity to be the next Supreme Leader and gives it to Hux. From there he and Ash hide away on Maridun with their son. However, it didn't feel right. Then there was the ending where he ends up the Supreme Leader. HOWEVER, I wanted it to end where Ash leaves him because he chooses that life over her and their son. But, I also didn't want to start a sequel and managed to hopefully make it work. I also feel like you guys deserve a happy ending after all the drama I threw at you. Y'all clearly just wanted Ash and Kylo Ren to be happy haha.
This story is not just mine as it is rightfully yours. All of you, whether you were here from day one or just found it two minutes ago, this story only found completion because of you. Your passionate reviews where you yelled at me for being a jerk for not letting them be together without struggle, to your shared laughter and moments of crying. We got through it because we were in this together and believe me when I say, without that love and support and passion you all had, this story would not have been what it is. This story would not have been completed. We're here at the end because of you. I cannot thank you all enough for what you've helped me create.
That being said, even though this story is over, if this is your first time reading it or your 100th time; leave a comment, let me know. Keep it going! I want to know if you still love it on your 100th read or this is your first time reading it and what you thought. Who was your favorite character, who had the best arc, whatever it is. Keep it going.
To those who have said in comments or private messages that they're inspired to write their own stories now because of this story; that is one of the biggest compliments I could ever receive and my advice to you is keep going. Keep writing. Keep writing even when things are difficult, when times get hard, when you don't feel like it. Never stop creating.
And finally, I don't know what the next story will be exactly. I started writing a Knights of Ren and a post apocalyptic AU that can go either way with Kylo Ren or Bucky Barnes but haven't gotten too far with either. But, something will be coming soon. I guess follow me as an author to know when it comes up? I don't know. But, you can always find me on this site, feel free to PM me whenever. Whether it's a silly question or just saying 'hi', I'll be here somewhere. You can also find me on twitter Commandmech, if you're bored and like watching people play video games, I'm on twitch and instagram. Same username as on this site. And of course, you can always follow me on my ridiculous tumblr that I use to reblog silly Kylo Ren or Bucky Barnes stuff… a lot. Either way, if you need someone to chat with or if you want someone to pass ideas around with or just some friendly advice, y'all got it. I'm here for you.
Before I start crying again over how grateful I am for you guys and all you've done for me and this story, it's time to not say 'goodbye', but end this the same way I end all my chapters…
See y'all next time.
Kimmyhazard