Hello there everyone! Welcome back to another chapter of A Journey through the Stars, and I just want to thank all those who have reviewed/favorited/followed this story, it does mean a lot that you guys have enjoyed this story enough to want to keep on reading. I know that these beginning chapters can seem like they're really dragging out, especially compared to other stroies that are much better than mine. A lot of this so far is just Ariel's beginnings, but trust me the adventure is just around the corner, and secrets will be revealed sooner than anyone may think. I really hope that you all enjoy this chapter, please leave a review to tell me what you think and any questions/comments, please message me, and let me know of any mistakes.
Disclaimer: All things Star Wars are not mine. It all belongs to the brilliant mind of George Lucas and Disney.
Chapter Four: A Hopeful Friend
ArielPOV
Ariel was quiet during the whole ride through the city, keeping a tight hold of Luna and the wind brushing the hair out of her face as they fell smoothly into the traffic that was weaving its way through the roads and streets. Snow sat on her lap, seeming to enjoy herself as she placed her front paws on the dash, her tail swinging back and forth. While they rode towards the other end of the city, Ariel was lost in her thoughts. Could this really be happening? Was she really going to have late-meal with Senator Organa and his family? In a way Ariel was a bit nervous about it, for she had never been invited to dinner with someone with such high standing as the senator, but then again, she couldn't help but feel excited as well. For as long as she had been on Alderran, she had always daydreamed about what the royal palace must look like up close. The other children in her neighborhood would come up with exaggerated descriptions of what they imagined it would look like, yet now Ariel was actually having a meal there! Not only that, she would probably get to see Leia again, which made her smile a little to herself. No matter what Senator Organa said, she knew that Leia had as much of a hand in their escape as she did, and Ariel greatly admired her bravery. She wasn't what Ariel had expected for a princess, but she was still quite fond of the brunette. Overall the trip seemed to fly by, and Ariel soon found herself leaving the main city behind and passing by gigantic stone walls that had watchmen at the top, waving down at their speeder. Raising herself up to get a better look, Ariel gasped at what she saw.
Just ahead of them, growing closer with each passing second, was the grand palace, where the Alderaan royal family lived. Against the light and swirling colors of the distant setting sun, the palace shone brightly with it gleaming structure, its towering torrents, beautiful surrounding waterfalls, lush green valleys and mountains on its borders, and a magnificent lake on the left hand side that seemed to go on forever. The palace itself shone brightly, with small shuttles landing nearby at the platform just over yonder. Ariel had never seen anything so beautiful in her entire life, and she was positively moved by it, taking the time to just stare. They crossed the grounds in the speeder until coming to what looked to be the entrance wing of the palace, where there were more guards dressed in the same uniform as Torten standing by the large silver and marble doors. Torten brought the speeder slowly to a stop at the base of the steps leading to the doors, and one of the guards came down to meet them, bowing respectively.
"Senator Organa," he said in welcome. "Captain. I trust your journey into the city has been successful?"
"Quite so," Bail replied with a smile as he got up and out of the speeder with ease, offering a helping hand to Ariel. "Ariel, this is Milo Elvenore, Torten's second in command of our personal guard. Milo, this is Ariel, she is to be our guest today."
Ariel gazed at the guard with fascination as she carefully climbed out of the speeder with Bail's help. He didn't appear to be too much younger than the senator, and he stood with the same posture of discipline, strength, and respect that Torten did. That must be what it's like for everyone in the royal guard. Milo gazed back at her with piercing blue eyes and neatly trimmed auburn hair underneath a hat to match his uniform.
"Hello, Mr. Elvenore," she said shyly.
"Hello Miss Ariel," Milo greeted in slight surprise as he looked back and forth from Ariel , to Bail, to Torten, and to Snow, who was standing by Ariel 's ankles. "Um, shall I inform the Queen you have returned?"
"No thank you Milo, I will inform her myself," Bail said, taking Ariel's hand and leading her up the steps. "Where is she?"
"The library, sir," Milo replied.
"Thank you," Bail said.
"Forgive me sir, I must attend to the night watch for their rounds," Torten said.
"Of course, Torten, I will see you later on," Bail said with a nod of his head. "Come, Ariel."
Ariel followed Bail as the other guards opened the doors for them, and her eyes grew wide at the sight of the beautiful entrance hall. Her gaze took in lovely white marble and silver everywhere from the floors to the lamps that hung on the walls, with gorgeous pictures and holo-portraits along the walls, a crystal chandelier hanging above their heads, and so many windows it felt as if they were still outside. The entire hall felt so fresh, elegant and new, yet still homely and modest at the same time. She couldn't help but stare as Bail took her up a few more steps and guided her over to a grand spiral staircase that sectioned off into the east and west wing of the palace at the top.
"Your home is so beautiful," Ariel whispered in complete awe.
"Thank you, Ariel," Bail said, smiling down at her. "If there is one thing my wife enjoys, it is making sure our home is as spacious and comfortable as possible. Many of the trinkets and treasures on display throughout the corridors have been handed down through her family for generations, some dating back to thousands of years ago."
"Have the Organas really been ruling for that long?" Ariel asked him, amazed.
"Not the Organas, no," Bail chuckled with a shake of his head. "It is my wife's family that has been ruling for quite some time."
"Oh," Ariel said softly. "What is it like being married to the Queen, sir?"
"Let's just say that it has certainly been an adventure," Bail answered. The two of them continued on walking through the corridors, and Ariel wished she had about eight more pairs of eyes so she could take in everything at one, to the beautifully carpeted floor to the various help and nobles scattered around, both humanoid and droid alike. Every one of them greeted Senator Organa was he passed, or at the very least bowed their heads. Ariel could also feel the stares she was receiving as well, and it made her a little uncomfortable. Being in such a clean, perfect place, she felt more like a dirty rat than ever, sticking out like a sore thumb. After many twists and turns, and climbing a couple flights of stairs, Organa and Ariel finally reached a set of oak doors with the Symbol of Alderran on it. Bail pushed the doors open, and Ariel was once again struck by the sheer magnificence of the room she stepped into. Laid out before her was a huge room filled to the brink with rows upon rows of holo-books, with mahogany shelving, green-tiled floors with a glass dome ceiling that seemed to reach out into the vast sky above. Near the middle of the room was a long rectangular table with many holo-books stacked on top, and looking through these books were two women. One of these women was an older woman appearing to be in her late forties, maybe early fifties at the latest, with silver hair tied up at the back of her neck in an elegant knot, with loose strands deliberately falling from it. She wore a soft green dress with a matching hood that flowed to her ankles in light ruffles, with a brown belt around her waist. Looking over to the other woman, Ariel's mouth dropped open as she realized that she had to been the Queen.
She's very pretty, Ariel couldn't help but think to herself. Queen Breha wore a gorgeous gown that had to be made from the softest silk material, which was a silvery blue color that fit her perfectly, rustling around her legs like ripples in a pond. She wore a headband around her head that could be considered a type of diadem, as it was made of rose gold with jewels embedded into the decorative leaves, sitting gracefully atop her dark curls, which were pinned up to frame her hazel brown eyes. Ariel wasn't sure how she was able to keep moving due to her shock and terrible case of nerves, her lips suddenly feeling dry. Probably sensing her nervousness, Bail gently pulled her forward with an encouraging smile. As they approached, the queen looked up from her books and once she caught sight of her husband, her eyes instantly lit up and a loving smile came across her lips.
"Bail," she said happily, placing the book down and walking around the table to meet him. "Thank goodness you're back. I was starting to get worried."
"I'm quite all right, Breha, I had Torten with me," Bail assured her.
"Yes, but you had only Torten with you," she pointed out, giving her husband a certain look. "And when it comes to you, I can't help but worry. I honestly can't tell who is worse—you, or Leia."
Bail simply smiled at the queen and she smiled back at him in the same way, filled with such love and care, and he took a moment to step forward and give her a peck on the cheek. Ariel , feeling as if she were intruding, looked away to give them some sort of privacy, and it was only then that Breha took notice of her.
"Oh my," she said, her face lighting up even more as she gazed at Ariel . "Is this the famous Ariel we've heard so much about?"
"Indeed it is," Bail answered. "Ariel, I'd like you to meet my wife, Breha Organa."
"Pleased to meet you, your majesty," Ariel said politely, bowing down as low as she could, which was slightly difficult, given that she was still holding Bail's hand.
"Oh, no need for that, sweetheart," Breha said, bending down so that she and Ariel were at eye level, her kind smile never leaving her face. "And I must say, it is an absolute honor to meet you. I'm glad to finally see the beautiful face of the girl who saved my daughter's life. And who may this be?"
Ariel, who was already going red in the face, looked down to see that Breha was looking at Snow, who never left her place by Ariel's feet.
"This is Snow," Ariel replied. "She helped me and Leia."
"Then I have to give my thanks to her as well," Breha said, reaching out to scratch the Loth-Cat behind the ears. "Well, Ariel, as I'm sure my husband told you, we are so very thankful to you for what you did for Leia. It was very brave and very selfless of you, and we are in your debt."
"I thought it would be nice for Ariel to join us for late-meal tonight," Bail said.
"That's a wonderful idea, dear," Breha agreed as she stood to her feet. She looked around for a moment, as if she were expecting to see someone else there as well.
"Are your parents here, Ariel? It would be wonderful to have them as well."
Ariel's face fell a bit at Breha's question, but thankfully she was saved from answering when Bail cleared his throat.
"It will just be Ariel joining us tonight," he said. A silent conversation seemed to pass between the married couple, and although Breha looked a bit puzzled, she nodded her head nonetheless.
"All right then, well how about we get you washed up and into some more comfortable clothes?" Breha asked her. "Would you like that?"
"Yes please, your majesty," Ariel answered.
"Okay. Gherta?" Breha said, looking over to the elderly woman. "Could you please draw up a bath for Ariel in my quarters? I will be there shortly."
"Yes, my lady," Gherta answered.
"Gherta is my handmaiden, Ariel, she is very nice and will take care of you," Breha said. "I will be up once I've had a word with Bail, okay?"
Gherta smiled at Ariel, but the little girl still wasn't sure. After being on her own for so long, she had gotten used to not relying on someone to take care of her, or really to trust anyone else. The only person she was even starting to trust a little was Bail, and so she turned to him, biting her lip and her green eyes conflicted.
"Don't worry Ariel, it'll be okay," he said. "There is no need to be afraid. I will see you soon for late-meal, I promise."
Ariel stared at him for another moment before she nodded, slowly letting go of his hand. She approached Gherta timidly, and the old woman's face crinkled into a look of compassion as she softly place a hand on Ariel 's shoulder so as not to make her uncomfortable.
"Come on with me dearie, let's get you all cleaned up for late-meal," she said as she started leading Ariel out of the library. "My, that is certainly a pretty doll you have there. What's her name?"
"Luna," Ariel replied. "I think she needs a bath too…"
"There will be plenty of room in the tub for you both if you'd like," Gherta said. "Do you like bubbles?"
"I've never had bubbles in my bath before," Ariel admitted.
"Really now? Well, just you wait, dearie, we have so many different scents for you to choose from. When Princess Leia was just a babe, she used to love having them all at once, so the tub would overflow with different colored bubbles."
"Where is Leia?" Ariel asked.
"She is at her lessons right now, but you will see her when it is time to eat," Gherta told her. "I have to say she will be thrilled to see you dearie, she's been talking about you non-stop."
Ariel smiled a little at that and continued to follow Gherta out of the library and back out into the corridors.
BrehaPOV
Breha watched as Gherta took Ariel out of the room, speaking in friendly tones to the young girl to make her feel more comfortable, for it was clear to see that the child was shy and felt awkward about her surroundings if anything else. The queen smiled a little after them. Ariel was such a polite and timid girl, it didn't take long for Breha to grow fond of her, just as Leia has, and they had only just met. There was something about her that made Breha's heart swell slightly, like a natural charm and care. Once Ariel and Gherta were gone, she turned to her husband, who was also watching them leave. She remembered what he had said, about Ariel being the only one to join them for their meal, and the look he had given her asked her not to pry about it, not in front of Ariel at least. A sudden thought lingered in the back of her mind, something that made her smile fade a bit, and it was something she didn't want to believe or assume without hearing it herself.
"Bail," she said, walking over to him. "Why is Ariel by herself?"
Bail sighed before walking over to a nearby armchair and sinking down into it heavily.
"Ariel has no parents," he answered her softly, confirming Breha's thought. "When I finally found her, she was living in a small house near the city borders, completely alone."
Breha's heart instantly saddened greatly at this information, her smile vanishing in full, and she turned her head towards the doors that her handmaiden took the child through, feeling so incredibly sorry for Ariel.
"An orphan from the war?" she asked quietly.
"Most likely," Bail replied, looking sorrowful as well. "Her guardian died six months ago, ever since then she's been on her own."
"Six months?" Breha breathed out, shaking her head. "The poor girl. No child should have to fend for themselves like that."
"You should have seen the state of the house," Bail said. "I'm sure it was once a cozy home, but after so long without proper care, it's starting to fade away. There was barely anything there, and the few things Ariel did have would hardly last her through the week. I just thought having her come for a proper meal would be the least I could do for her."
"You truly do amaze me with your kindness and care, my love," Breha said, walking over to stand beside the chair and placing a hand on Bail's shoulder.
"It's not fair that a child should suffer because of the deeds of others," Bail said quietly, as if musing to himself. "I think we've seen enough of that to last a lifetime."
"Too true," Breha agreed thoughtfully. "In any case, I'm glad that you brought her here. I know that Leia will be happy to see her."
Bail smiled at that and placed his hand on top of hers, pulling it towards him to place a soft kiss on the back of it before rubbing small circles onto her skin.
"It's hard to believe that Leia has grown so attached to her so quickly," he said, and Breha could hear the hint of amusement in his voice. "From what she told us they had only known each other mere minutes before Torten and I found them."
"It's like that for children, sometimes," Breha said knowingly with a smile. "They can see the good as well as the bad in someone much easier than others most times, and to them, this galaxy is an open, innocent world. Besides, Leia doesn't have many friends to begin with."
"If any at all," Bail said quietly, the sadness creeping into his voice once again. "She is so driven, smart, and independent, but I know it's hard for her to make friends. They never see her for who she is."
"Unfortunately that can be a side effect growing up in this way of life," Breha added, her face also becoming sad as she remembered her own time growing up as a young princess, when her own mother had been queen. To be a princess was no easy task, with all the lessons in academics as well as adequate manners and politics. You had to walk a certain way, speak in a certain way, and let others know that while you were still human, you were also regal, someone who had duties and expectations required of you when you were next in line for the throne governing an entire planet. Breha did not regret the life she lived, far from it. Being the queen was tiresome, yes, but rewarding as well. Representing and caring for her people and her family was something she took in stride and she could never see herself doing anything else. Yet she could still see the hardships of her youth being passed down onto her daughter. Every day without fail, Leia had to attend her lessons and her classes in manners she took with Breha's sisters, who were determined to groom her into a prim and proper princess of Alderran. Leia sometimes rebelled against it, preferring to speak her mind rather than be a decorative wall flower. As exasperated as Breha felt about it sometimes, she also loved the fierce spirit she inherited from Bail and she knew that one day it would help her become a headstrong future member of the senate, which had been Leia's dream for some time.
Unfortunately, this deterred Leia from finding any friends, at least any true ones. Both Bail and Breha had taken Leia to social gatherings, where she had the opportunity to meet and mingle with the children of nobles from nearby territories and acquaintances of the royal family. Leia was bold and headstrong in some aspects, but in others, she was still a young child. She did try to socialize with the other children, but they never really got on a more personal level. Everyone around her treated Leia as some sort of dainty princess that was more suited to have a pretty smile and only put in her opinion when needed. Being a royal, it is commonly believed that one had to act a certain way when in your presence, but Breha knew that all Leia wanted was to meet someone who would like her for who she is, not what her title claimed her to be.
"I want a friend who likes me for me, not because they're obligated to," Leia had confessed to Breha once.
But maybe this time will be different, Breha thought to herself. Ariel had come to Leia's side when she was in need, not because she was a princess, but because she saw another girl in danger and decided to act. Breha knew that courageous act effected Leia, and it was the only time that someone outside her family and the royal guard cared for her in such a way. That was why she was so insistent on Bail finding her, to find the kindred spirit who she saw as a potential, hopeful friend, one that she has been secretly aching for.
"It's why I was so determined to find her," Bail admitted. "I hadn't seen Leia so happy and eager about anything in so long, I wanted to see her smile like that again."
"She will today, my love," Breha soothed with a tender look. "Thanks to you."
"Thanks to Ariel," Bail said. "And her furry friend."
"I'm honestly surprised that Torten allowed that little creature in his speeder," Breha giggled.
"He wasn't thrilled about it, believe me," Bail said, chuckling a little as he remembered the sour look on his friend's face as Snow jumped up into the speeder outside of Ariel 's house. "But I think Snow may be the only company Ariel has. She didn't want to leave her."
"Well I better not see any muddy paw prints on the floors, Mr. Organa," Breha stated, giving her husband a mock glare. "You know Tulee will have a fit."
"She already nags Torten to no end about it when he finishes training with the new recruits," Bail said, full out laughing at this point. "They're worse than an old married couple."
"And to think that could be us in ten years," Breha said, laughing right along with him. Breha and Bail fell into a comfortable silence together, still clasping each other's hands, and the queen spent a moment looking out at the sun that was finally starting to go over the far valleys, disappearing into the quickly approaching night. After a few more minutes, their comfortable silence was broken once again as the library doors opened, and they looked over to see Orcan, one of their faithful chief advisors walk briskly into the room. His scarlet red robes billowed out behind him as he moved, his gray bald head shining in the light of the room, his pointed ears as sharp as ever and his beady green eyes holding a sense of urgency as he made his way over to them, a holo pad clutched in his clawed hands.
"Excuse me, Senator," he said, bowing low to them before straightening up. "Your Majesty. I apologize for the interruption sir, but the ambassadors from the Galacta system are here."
"Damn it all," Breha heard Bail mutter from under his breath. "With everything that's happened I completely forgot about the meeting. Breha, I'm sorry, I've already had to reschedule once…"
"Don't worry dear," Breha reassured him. "You go on."
"I won't be long," Bail said as he stood to his feet, although he still held on to her hand. "I promise. I will fetch Leia from her lessons when I am finished."
"Then I will see you both soon at late-meal," Breha said. Bail nodded, gave her a loving smile along with a kiss to the back of her hand before he released it and then proceeded to follow Orcan out of the library. Breha smiled after her love before turning back to the holo books she had been looking at. She gathered them in her hands, deciding to take them all to her room where she could look at them later. Soon she was leaving the library herself and walking through the many glistening halls of the palace and the luscious green courtyards that led up to the tower where she shared the master bedroom and living quarters with Bail. It didn't take her long before she finally reached her room, and when she did she opened the doors that led into a beautiful white and cream colored space, expanding long and wide on each side of her. The ceiling reached high above her head, leading up to a brilliantly lit chandelier made of the finest crystals and pearls. The bed was set up against the right hand side, neatly made with fresh clean white and yellow linens, blankets and sheets. There were closets in one corner, and a tall, grand vanity in the other. A cozy fireplace was set against the wall in the center of the room, while there were lounge chairs and couches leading out onto the rounded balcony that had a beautiful view of the surrounding lake. There was a door off to the left that led into the refresher which was cracked open, and Breha could hear the sounds of voices on the other side. After a few more seconds, the door opened all the way to reveal Gherta stepping through, carrying the dirty clothes Breha recognized as Ariel's.
"Your Majesty," Gherta greeted with a respectful bow of her head. "I've got the little lady all set to go in the bath. I'll be getting rid of these and finding her some proper attire, I'm sure the princess may have something close to her size."
"Thank you very much, Gherta," Breha said. Gherta nodded before making her way back out of the room. Breha stood for a moment, thinking, and then walking over to the door, which Gherta left slightly ajar. She knocked a few times softly so as not to startle Ariel .
"Ariel?" she called in. "Are you doing all right in there?"
"Yes," she heard in reply. "But, um…I—I think I need help…"
Breha carefully opened the door all the way as she stepped inside the room. Her eyes fell upon the little blonde girl, who was sitting upright in a large tub with her body almost completely covered by bubbles of all different colors and scents, foaming on the surface of the hot water as well a floating in the air. Ariel's head was a mess of sopping wet knots that fell deep beneath the water, and her cheeks were set aflame as she stared up at Breha in embarrassment, gesturing over to the nearby stand that held many bottles of different shapes and sizes.
"There's a lot of soap," she mumbled. "I don't know which one to use."
Breha couldn't help but smile at Ariel's innocent confusion and proceeded to take a silver bottle from the shelf.
"Here dear, you can use this one," she said. "It's my favorite, it has essence of a water lily that only grows on this planet. It is good for hair and leaves such a lovely scent."
"Are you sure it's okay for me to use your things?" Ariel asked, looking very unsure of herself.
"Of course Ariel, I would be happy to share with you," Breha replied as she handed the bottle over. "Do you need any help?"
"Um, no thank you," Ariel answered, her cheeks still red. "I think I've got it."
"All right, well I'll be just out here if you need me," Breha said as she stood to her feet and then left the room, leaving the door ajar behind her. The queen settled herself in one of her chairs closer to the balcony with one of the holo books in hand, patiently waiting for Ariel to be done so they could walk down to the dining hall together. It was only then that she noticed Snow chair closest to the door to the refresher, being ever so watchful of her mistress while cleaning herself and purring softly. A little time went by before Gherta returned with some clothes for Ariel to wear, placing them with Ariel in the other room before returning to Breha's side.
"Such a polite child," Gherta noted. "She had such fun picking out the bubbles for her bath, like they were colorful floating stars. Will you be needing anything else milday?"
"No thank you, Gherta," Breha said. Gherta bowed her head and then took her leave, making sure to close the door quietly after herself. As the minutes ticked on, the sun sunk lower and lower into the sky and after a little while longer, the door to the refresher opened and Breha looked up to see Ariel stepping out of it.
The sudden change in the girl's appearance had Breha gaping for a moment. The barely noticeable dirt that was on Ariel's face and hands had been washed off, leaving behind fair pale skin that seemed to glow in the fading light of the sunset. The dress that Gherta had brought for her was a bright, vibrant coral color that changed into darker shades as it got closer to the hem of the skirt, with a thin belt around her waist made out of gold thread, loose sleeves that were slit open starting from just beneath her shoulders to just above her wrists, which were wrapped delicately with velvet cuffs. There were two small gold pins on top of each shoulder to hold a built-in scarf in place, and just under the skirt Breha could see the tips of a pair of slippers that seemed a bit big on her feet. The dress hung loose on Ariel's hips and by her shoulders, but other than that, Ariel looked as if she could have been a royal princess herself.
"Oh, Ariel," Breha breathed, standing to her feet. "You look absolutely beautiful."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Ariel said, her face pulled into a tiny frown as she picked at one of the sleeves.
"What's wrong, dear?" Breha asked.
"The sleeves feel a little scratchy," Ariel muttered. "And I…I've never worn anything this pretty before. It's nice but kind of—weird."
"Well, you look stunning in it nonetheless," Breha stated with a smile. She then noticed that Ariel's hair was still a tangled wet mess on top of her head, although now that it was washed it didn't look as matted as it was when she had first gotten into the tub. Breha offered to brush Ariel's hair for her and the little girl agreed somewhat hesitantly as she followed Breha over to the vanity. Breha gently guided Ariel to the seat in front of it, taking her hairbrush and moving to stand behind her. Having dealt with Leia's long dark hair for so long, this was not new territory for Breha but she still made sure to use a careful hand as she started running the brush through Ariel 's sun-kissed locks. Ariel sat still for the most part, flinching every now and then when Breha would come across a particularly painful knot, but she never complained or put up a fuss. As she brushed her hair, Breha suddenly noticed the silver chain that hung around Ariel's neck and dangling from the end of it was a pretty silver ring with a white stone set in the middle that seemed to sparkle in the light.
"That's a very lovely ring, Ariel," Breha complimented. "I didn't notice it before."
"Oh, I usually keep it underneath my clothes," Ariel muttered, tucking the ring underneath the neckline of her dress and out of sight. "I'm scared that someone might see it and try to steal it. It's all I have left of my mother's."
"I see," Breha said sadly. "Well it's very beautiful."
"Thank you," Ariel said quietly. The process of brushing the little girl's hair took some time, but Breha could see Ariel visibly relax the closer they got to the top of her head, and she had to admire Ariel 's lovely thick hair, starting off pin straight but forming loose waves at the end. When she had finally gotten all the knots out, she took a few minutes to just run her brush through Ariel's hair, knowing all too well how wonderful it feels.
"There you go, sweetie," Breha said. "How's that?"
Ariel didn't respond and when Breha moved her gaze over to the child's reflection she was surprised to see that her jade green eyes were starting to well with tears, her hands folded in her lap.
"Ariel? What's wrong?" Breha asked, pausing in her movements.
"M-my Mama used t-to brush my hair l-l-like that," she stuttered. "I miss h-her."
Breha's heart broke all over again at Ariel's words, and the sadness she felt earlier upon hearing that Ariel was an orphan returned. She placed the brush aside and moved so that she was bending down next to Ariel, gazing up into her distraught face. Ariel's lips were trembling a bit and a couple tears managed to fall down her face. Breha used her hand to wipe them away and tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.
"I'm so sorry, Ariel," she said softly. "I bet you loved your Mama, didn't you?"
Ariel nodded her head, sniffling.
"And I'm sure she loved you too, so very much," Breha said. "I know she would have been proud to know she had such a kind, brave, and generous daughter like you."
"S-sometime I'm scared I'll forget her," Ariel admitted.
"As long as you keep hold of the memories you have of her, she will still be alive in your heart and you will never forget her," Breha said while wiping away the last of Ariel's tear. "Don't be sad anymore dear, everything will turn out okay, you'll see. Now, let's finish with your hair and then we'll go down to meet Bail and Leia."
Ariel seemed to brighten up a little at that, offering a small smile. Breha straightened up and gathered some of Ariel's hair into her hands, beginning to braid it. About ten minutes later, Breha had three thin braids going along the sides of Ariel 's head and over top of it, coming together to form an elegant knot at the back of her head. She made two more braids fall over her shoulders and then left the rest of hair to fall freely down her back like a soft golden waterfall. When they were all done, Ariel called Snow over to her side and then Breha led her out of the room and down the corridor, making their way down to the dining hall together. It didn't take long and when they finally reached the hall, they opened the doors to see that Bail was already there, along with Leia, the two of them sitting at the table.
"Ariel!"
The second Leia had set sights on Ariel, she jumped out of her seat in pure excitement and then rushed over towards them at a brisk pace, her smile wide and infectious as she came to a stop before them. Ariel smiled as well, stepping forward to greet the young princess.
"Hi Le—um, your highness," Ariel said, dropping into a quick but awkward curtsey.
"Please, just call me Leia," the brunette insisted, still smiling. "I'm so happy you're here, I'm glad Father was able to find you! It's wonderful that you are joining us for late-meal, I was so very excited when Father told me—"
"Slow down there, Leia," Bail chuckled as he stood from his seat as well. "You will run out of breath from talking so fast."
"Sorry, Father," Leia said, looking slightly sheepish. "Are you hungry, Ariel? The food will be ready soon, you can sit next to me if you'd like."
Breha smiled fondly as Ariel nodded happily at Leia's offer and accepted her outstretched hand. The two girls made their way over to the chairs on the left hand side of the table while she took the seat at the end opposite of Bail. When they were all settled, Leia and Ariel instantly broke into cheerful conversation and from the corner of her eyes Breha saw Snow trot over to lay down at Ariel's feet, being the ever watchful guardian.
"I'm sorry if you were scared yesterday, Ariel," Leia said. "Torten's nice when you get to know him, he just looks scary."
"Leia," Breha reprimanded while Ariel giggled.
"Father said he showed you the library," Leia continued on. "Do you like it?"
"Yeah, I've never seen so many books in my life…"
"How did the meeting go, dear?" Breha asked Bail over the girl's chatter.
"As well as can be expected," Bail responded as one of the maids came out from the kitchen carrying a tray of drinks. "With any luck we should be opening trade routes with them soon."
"And when do you have to go back to Crocusant?" Breha asked.
"In four days," Bail replied. "Hopefully my stay will be brief. I'd much rather be at home with my girls."
Breha smiled at him just as the kitchen doors opened once again and trays of delicious smelling food were brought out to the table, all steaming as they were placed in front of them. Ariel herself seemed positively shell-shocked at the sight of all the food that was being served, her mouth slightly open and her eyes going very wide. There was soup, meat, vegetables, fruit, and all other kinds of wonderful things laid out in silver platters and goblets.
"Wow," she said. "I've never seen this much food before! What's this, Leia?"
"That's a kind of stew our cook specializes in," Leia explained, gesturing to the silver bowl Ariel was looking at. "It goes great with bread and cheese."
"You can have as much as you like, Ariel," Bail told the little girl. "This meal is in your honor. I'd like to propose a toast."
Bail, Breha and Leia all raised their glasses to Ariel, who quickly became very red in the face.
"Here's to you, Ariel," he said. "For your bravery, kindness, and being such a good friend to Leia."
Ariel 's face became darker as Breha and Leia joined in on the toast, and then they all took a sip of their drinks before breaking into pleasant chatter once again as they ate their meal. Leia would tell Ariel about the type of lessons she took and Breha would speak to Bail of other things involving politics and what's going on with the Senate at the moment, which neither of the girls were interested in at the moment.
"I spoke with Mon Mathma the other day," Bail told her, taking a sip from his goblet and giving Breha a certain look.
"Oh?" Breha said, casually cutting into her meat but her posture going a bit straighter in her seat. "How is she?"
"Doing well, all things considered. She is actually due to run a debate on her planet's council concerning new laws that could impact their trading routes as well as their financial situation for their resources," Bail informed her. "She had asked if I would be available to assist her in the debate, as we share similar ideals on the matter."
"But must you go so soon?" Breha asked. "You haven't been home long since you've returned from the Ileanian System."
"I know dear, but it would only be for a few days, and I wouldn't be leaving until next week," Bail assured her. "Mon could really use some help right now, this debate could really support or crumble the laws on her planet, if the other members of her council have anything to say about it, and they are our ally after all."
Breha fell silent for a moment, deep in her thoughts. Due to them being in the presence of Leia and Ariel , she knew that they couldn't say what they really wanted to say. They had learned some time ago to speak in coded terms to one another if they could not speak in privacy, because it was much too dangerous otherwise. To everyone else, they would hear Bail's concern of a good friend's dilemma, but Breha knew there was an entirely different meaning beneath the surface.
"Mon Mathma is handling an issue at the base with recruiting and supplies runs for our troops. She asked if I could join the next meeting with the Rebel Council to resolve it."
"But must you go so soon? You haven't been home long since the last time you went."
"I know dear, but it would only be for two days, and I wouldn't be leaving until next week. Mon needs everyone in the council to attend, this issue has to be dealt with if we want to move forward or the Empire will find us out. I must do what I can to help."
Breha sighed softly to herself, knowing that Bail was right, although the idea of him leaving again so soon made her weary.
"I understand," she said finally, trying to give him an encouraging smile. "Please give Mon my regards, and I hope you two will be able to settle the debate."
Bail smiled at her before continuing to eat his meal while Breha went back to hers, hoping that this trip indeed wouldn't last long and that it would bring her husband home safe and sound. If she had her way he would never leave Alderran for such a dangerous task, but she knew the risks and had to push through them. They both knew, even when Bail decided to forge the Rebellion along with Mon Mathma and other leaders and senators from other systems.
Six years ago, when the Empire was still in its beginning stages of stretching it's dark hand across the galaxy, more and more systems began falling underneath it's shadow. Planets were being invaded and conquered, cruel laws and restrictions were being passed, and anyone or anything that posed as a threat or dared defied the Emperor and his army of Stormtroopers were murdered in cold blood. Bail heard of planets and cultures that fell prey to the Empire's wishes, leaving lives destroyed, and families torn apart. Even worse, he had heard the whispered rumors that those who were discovered to be Force Sensitive were killed or recruited to work for the Empire as Inquisitors, to seek out and destroy others like them. The idea infuriated Breha to no end, because she knew that this was because the Emperor did not want the possibility of any new Jedi coming into being. The Jedi, who were strong wielders of the Force and once the peacekeepers of the galaxy, were all exterminated twelve years ago following the purge on the Jedi Temple. Whoever wasn't killed in the temple were murdered by the clone soldiers they had fought alongside with during the war, who were unknowingly under the influence of the Emperor. Very few Jedi escaped and scattered into the wind, and Emperor Palpatine sent only his best to go out and hunt them down, one of them being his ever faithful right-hand man and fellow Sith, Darth Vader.
Breha shook her head a little, not wanting to dwell on the fearsome Sith Lord who stroke fear into the hearts of those who've heard of him. Vader was a ruthless monster who was part man, part machine, skilled and powerful with the dark side of the Force. He was merciless in his missions, although the media made him out to be a conquering hero of the Empire. He and the Inquisitors have made good work of hunting down any remaining Jedi, and taking care of those who had the potential to become one, no matter how old or young they were. Such ruthless violence and cruelty had been enough for Bail, along with many other senators, noblemen, and leaders who were tired of seeing their people along with others suffer from the evil the Empire ruled with. And so, years ago Bail and other members of the council came together to begin to form a secret group that would go against the Empire and repel against its wrongdoings, calling themselves the Rebel Alliance. The Rebellion started off very small indeed, with a small amount of men and woman who were willing to take a stand and fight for the freedom of the galaxy. It was rough in the beginning, they didn't have the numbers or the supplies to take on any major battles, but after a long time of gathering information and recruiting, there was finally some light to be shed. The Rebellion started having members and spies in different parts of the galaxy, and as their numbers grew, their will became more bold. Breha herself knew that they fought some battles, but she never asked for the exact details, and she knew Bail would not tell her anyway, thinking she already knew too much. She was proud of Bail for what he was doing, what he was fighting for, even though there were times she feared for his safety. It has been some time since the Rebellion was formed, and she was positive that the Empire must know about it, although their movements as well as their base was thankfully still hidden, so they haven't been found. Not yet, at least.
"Mother?" Leia said, drawing Breha from her thoughts.
"Yes, dear?" she said.
"Is Ariel going to be spending the night?" Leia asked, with all the innocence a twelve year old could muster. Her question caught Breha off guard for a moment, and she raised her eyes in surprise. She was so deep into her mind that she didn't hear any of the girl's conversation, so she had no idea how this topic was even brought up. It was quiet for a moment as Breha looked over at Bail, a silent question passing between them. She glanced back over at Leia, who was gazing at them with bright hope and eagerness shining in her eyes, looking from one to the other.
"Spending the night?" Bail mused, stroking his thin mustache for a moment. "Hmm."
"Please, Father? She can stay with me in my room, I promise we'll behave," Leia pleaded.
"It's okay Leia, I don't want to impose on you and your parents," Ariel said softly, looking down at her plate.
"Don't be silly!" Leia objected. "You wouldn't be imposing on us, and you can't be alone tonight."
"I'll be all right, I always am," Ariel countered, and Breha could see she was trying to give her an encouraging smile. "And I have Snow with me."
As if to speak her agreement, the Loth-Cat mewled at them, her tail wrapped around her legs. Breha shared one last look at her husband and after a moment they both smiled, the two of them thinking along the same lines.
"Well, what do you think, Ariel?" Breha said to the young girl. "Would you like to stay the night?"
Ariel seemed stunned for a moment, her mouth hanging open slightly, making Breha smile in amusement. The girl simply gaped at them all for a minute like a fish before she closed her mouth and fiddled with the sleeve of her dress.
"Are—are you sure, your majesty?" she said quietly, as if hardly able to believe what she was hearing. "I wouldn't be a bother?"
"Of course not, Ariel," Breha answered with a shake of her head. "We would love to have you, wouldn't we Bail?"
"Absolutely," Bail agreed. "I see no harm in it, and I know Leia would very much appreciate it."
Leia was nodding her head enthusiastically, turning to Ariel with a bright smile, and Breha was happy to see her daughter so very excited and joyful.
I have a very good feeling about this.
Hello again. So, for this chapter i made just a couple changes, I know that the Rebel alliance hasn't been around as long as I'm making it seem, but to better benefit this story, I made it as though it had been around for a while, just doing small missions before eventually going head to head with the Empire. But anyway, I hope you guys liked this chapter, please let me know what you thought about it, and I'll see you in the next one!