Several weeks later.
Exterior: Mandalore, Sundari.
Rising upon the magnificent city, the light of dawn shone with a gentle breeze.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, Galen and Barriss's bedroom, morning.
Awakening to find herself safe and sound in her betrothed's arms, Barriss, in navy pj pants and a blouse, smiled.
Stirring, Galen gently kissed her cheek, "Morning, Barr'ika,"
"Morning, love,"
"Sleep well?"
"I certainly did, especially since you're here with me,"
"I'm glad, cyare."
"You do know your natural body heat is much warmer than other humans?"
"I have a feeling I'm more of an…" began Galen, searching for the right word, "alternatively evolved variant of human.
Perhaps one with the differences being internal."
"Alternatively evolved variant?"
"I thought it was a more accurate and politer term than 'offshoot,' which these days is used as an insult."
"That makes sense, and your fair complexion has developed a subtle glow.
That may be your connection to the light altering your physical appearance,"
"Possibly."
Checking the time, Barriss informed, "I think I'll go wake up the girls,"
"In that case, I'll start getting breakfast sorted," replied Galen whilst suiting up, "how do pancakes sound?"
"They sound wonderful, love." mused Barriss who tenderly kissed him whilst closely embracing him, "be sure to prepare some other food to have with them.
Perhaps some fresh fruit, or bacon,"
"Of course, my fair lady.
Although I may need you to delay the girls coming down to the dining room, until I'm finished preparing breakfast.
Hungry kids and a table without food on it never ends well."
"I'll see what I can do, love."
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, Omega and Katooni's bedroom.
Finding the two girls lying next to each other, face up, in one of the two queen-sized beds, Barriss discreetly took a photo after opening the curtains with the Force.
Carefully lifting off the occupied bed's sheet and blanket with the Force, Barriss observed their pjs consisted of soft black shorts and white, floral patterned, short-sleeved, cropped bed shirts that stopped two inches above their navels.
"Awww, they're matching, that's so cute," mused Barriss who playfully gave their bare feet a gentle tickle, "Precious ones, it's time to get up,"
"Hehehehe ten hehehe more hehehe minutes hehehe," chuckled Katooni.
"Hahaha please?" asked Omega.
Cheeky and mischievous as she knelt between them, pinning Katooni's right leg and Omega's left beneath her, Barriss delicately tickled their exposed midriffs with surgical precision, making the younger girls erupt into adorable laughter and wildly squirm beneath her whilst their limbs were held in place by the Force.
"Hahahahaha you're hahahahaha terrifyingly hahahaha good hahahaha at hahahaha this, hahahaha," giggled Katooni as Barriss ruthlessly tickled their tummies, lower abdomens, ribs, underarms, and sides.
"I've had lots of practice on Ahsoka and Maris," replied Barriss who traced a spiral towards the Tholothian's navel.
"Hahahahaha oh, hahahaha Force, hahahaha you've hahahahaha already hahahaha found hahahaha my hahahaha weakness hahahaha," little Katooni confessed as she writhed and squirmed whilst happily laughing.
"Oh, have I, Padawan?" teased Barriss, "and what might your weakness be?"
"Hahahaha my hahahaha belly hahahaha button hahahaha!"
"And it's a very cute little belly button, my darling," cheekily mused Barriss.
"Hahahaha thank hahahaha you hahahaha." giggled little Katooni as her cheeks flushed, not used to such a compliment.
Whilst her sides and navel were expertly tickled, Omega laughed, "Hahahaha have hahahaha mercy hahahaha, we'll hahahaha get hahahaha up hahahaha if hahaha you hahahaha want hahaha us hahaha to hahahaha,"
"Oh, you're not going anywhere yet, dear ones," replied Barriss who teased, "your adorable selves wanted ten more minutes in bed, so you'll spend them being tickled." whilst showing no mercy as she summoned electric toothbrushes with the Force, using them to tickle the little girls.
"Hahahaha please hahahaha hahahaha have hahahaha mercy hahaha," begged Omega as one of the toothbrushes tickled underneath and between her toes, making her hysterically squirm whilst smiling brightly.
"Hahahaha we hahahaha are hahahaha so hahahaha getting hahaha you hahahaha back hahahaha for hahaha this hahaha." vowed Katooni whilst helplessly squirming and hysterically laughing.
"I'm sure you will, my darlings." mused Barriss, "so by all means be as ruthless and merciless as you want."
"Hahahaha oh, hahahaha we hahahaha will hahahaha." assured Omega whilst giggling gleefully.
"Then you won't mind being tickled for an extra twenty minutes," teased Barriss.
"Hahahaha wait, hahahaha what?"
30 mins later.
Catching their breath, Katooni and Omega pinned Barriss down on her back, tied her to the bedposts, rolled up her blouse to just below her bra, then exacted their revenge upon her whilst she offered no resistance, and burst into laughter whilst squirming beneath them.
When the little girls were finished tickling her and each other senseless, Barriss excused herself, then returned in her armour momentarily thereafter.
Receiving a message through her Force bond with Galen, Barriss informed, "My dearest little treasures, your father says breakfast is ready,"
"What's on the menu?" asked Omega, eager.
"Pancakes, my precious."
With a grin as she and Omega suited up, Katooni's eyes lit up, "Next time, you could lead with that,"
"Speaking of leading, please follow me, ner cyare'se." requested Barriss as she held their hands, "down the yellow brick road,"
Beaming with joy as they walked side by side, Katooni cheerfully sang, "We're off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz!" making her companions chuckle.
Shortly after.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, dining room, morning.
Having breakfast with his fiancé and daughters, Galen smiled at the latter, "Did you sleep well, treasured ones?"
"Yep." answered Omega and Katooni.
"What's the plan for today?" asked Omega.
"Ooh, there's a new botanical garden," suggested Katooni who gave an adorable expression, "Can we go? Please?"
"Of course we can, love," assured Barriss, "I'll walk you and Omega there after our morning meditation,"
"What about Father?"
"I have a few things to take care of," chimed in Galen, "but this'll be a great opportunity for the three of you to spend some time together.
Barriss is going to be my wife, and the two of you are my daughters."
"So you want us to spend the day bonding with each other, while you sort some of the boring stuff out?"
"I'm hoping spending more time together will help you connect, and strengthen and solidify the familial bond,"
"Strengthen and solidify it?"
"It's one thing to be called family as a formality or on a legal document.
But another to truly feel like part of a family.
To feel that family's love for you in your heart, and with every fibre of your being."
"Who wouldn't love Barriss?" asked Omega, radiating warm feelings, "to me, she's always been part of our family,"
"And always will be," added Katooni, intentionally projecting affection and fondness for Offee.
Wrapping her arms around the little girls, Barriss beamed, "Thank you so much, my darlings.
I'm truly blessed to have you in my life, and I love you too."
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, meditation chamber, morning.
As they sat cross-legged, Barriss, Katooni and Omega peacefully meditated, floating weightlessly with the Force flowing through them.
Exterior: Mandalore, Sundari, Botanical gardens, late morning.
Wandering the gardens with the kids as they basked in the presence of the light side and the living Force, Barriss recognised several types of flora, then the trees caught her eye, "By the light, these are Uneti trees!"
"Yep, they naturally grow and thrive here on Mandalore, and other worlds in Mandalorian space," confirmed Omega, "which explains why the ancient Jedi and Mando'ade were sometimes fighting,"
"It also explains why the Sith wanted the planet corrupted by the dark side, and the surface glassed so badly."
"Some of the Mandalorian agriculture groups and Jedi Agri-corps are hoping to grow an entire forest of Uneti trees, since they're so rare in the galaxy.
And teach off-worlders how to grow them on their worlds too," added Katooni.
"That's a truly wonderful idea," mused Barriss.
"Some have also been moved to Tython, and one was sent to daddy's brother on Dromund Kaas.
Since that planet's still recovering from being a double dark side nexus, something so pure and in tune with the light side might help heal it."
"Let us hope it helps, instead of becoming corrupted by the dark side's residual aura," mused Barriss as they beheld a magnificent, snow white Uneti tree in the garden's centre.
"It'll go better than building a Jedi temple atop a Sith temple atop a dark side nexus, like they did on Coruscant,"
"Touche."
Later.
Exterior: Mandalore, Sundari, tea café, early afternoon.
As a strikingly familiar piece of architecture caught her gaze, Barriss's jaw dropped, "Is that what I think it is?"
"A Mandalorian Jetii temple? Yep," answered Omega.
Katooni added, "It's a similar aesthetic to the temple on Coruscant, but this one's more like its own little city."
"Shall we expect many of our fellow Jedi to transfer here?"
"Hopefully it's the ones we're closest to, since living halfway across the galaxy from my Pe'ika is a total drag,"
"Agreed, sweetie, and I take it the Mandalorian Knights use it for the most part?"
"Yes."
Taking in the soothing aroma of a herbal tea Barriss had bought for her, Katooni smiled, "This is really nice.
Thank you, Barriss,"
"You're welcome, Kat'ika." replied the Mirialan Jedi before their food arrived.
Soon thereafter.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, IMAX, lobby.
Having bought snacks and drinks for the kids, Barriss asked, "What shall we see, dear ones?"
Admiring a poster, Katooni answered, "Princess Bride." whilst Omega nodded in agreement.
"As you wish."
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, art museum.
Barriss, Omega and Katooni excitedly explored the exhibit, admiring the various artworks, ceremonial and historical garments, jewellery, instruments, sculptures, statues, suits of armour, paintings, mosaics, ceramics, and other forms of art.
Exterior: Mandalore, Sundari, restaurant, rooftop terrace, early evening.
Hanging overhead, decorative lanterns provided light for the diners.
Seated comfortably at a round table, Barriss, Katooni and Omega had Salmon teriyaki and rice for dinner whilst musicians played a gentle tune with harps and flutes.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, Katooni and Omega's room, late evening.
As she tucked the girls into bed, Barriss planted a kiss upon their foreheads, "Did you enjoy yourselves today, dear ones?"
"Yep, it was really nice," answered Katooni, "it was lots of fun,"
"Thank you for taking us out today," added Omega.
Barriss smiled, "Anytime, my treasures."
In unison, Katooni and Omega softly said, "I love you, mum,"
Shedding a tear of joy as her heart melted, Barriss beamed, "I love you too, my precious daughters."
"Mama, will you read us a bedtime story?" asked Omega, with the innocent eyes of a Porg.
"It would be my pleasure and privilege, Omega'ika," answered Barriss as she sat by them, and opened a book, "Or is it Ome'ika?
I'm still getting the hang of mando'a,"
"It can be either one, Barr'Buir."
"Will you stay in here with us tonight, Barr'Buir?" requested Katooni, after Barriss finished reading, "please?"
"Of course, sweetie," answered Barriss before lying between them, "Sweet dreams, my treasures,"
"Sweet dreams, Buir." returned Katooni and Omega as the trio closely snuggled up to each other.
Slipping one of her small hands under Barriss's top, Omega tickled the Jedi Knight's tummy before finding herself on the receiving end.
A few days later.
Exterior: Mandalore, Sundari, late morning.
As he, Barriss, Omega and Katooni explored the city, Galen asked, "Since I have no idea how to be a politician, how am I meant to handle that side of things for my people?"
"A council of advisors is a good place to start," answered Barriss.
"Yes, however, aside from Satine, Korkie, and Almec, Mandalorians aren't known for their political charisma, prowess, or experience.
Diplomats were once one of the types of people Mandalorians despised."
"How have you been managing things so far?"
"The clans have been governing themselves and their territories which has been effective with the Protectors, Journeyman Protectors, Police, and Mandalorian Knights keeping the peace between them.
The latter of whom have earned much respect from the rest of Mandalorian society.
All four mostly handle matters within Mandalorian space, or involving Mandalorians."
"Maybe the heads of each House can act as representatives in a ruling council." suggested Katooni.
"That's a great idea, Kat'ika." praised Barriss.
"How's Star'Buir feeding everyone?" wondered the Padawan.
Galen elaborated, "Off-world imports from worlds like Pantora and Dantooine, in addition to allite like Skirata and Fett growing and providing crops and fresh produce locally with the help of the Jetii Agri-Corps.
Buir's even restored and upgraded his birth family's farm."
"Since every clone of Jango is a Mandalorian, do they have somewhere to stay?" inquired Barriss.
"Many aliit have adopted them, and others amongst my vode have formed their own clans with their partners."
"What about jobs?" asked Katooni.
"A considerable percentage of them have signed on with the Mandalorian navy, planetary security forces, military, the Protectors, the Journeyman Protectors, police, and the medical corps."
"Is there even a difference between some of those?"
"You'll have to ask Fenn and Cody about that."
"Do our fellow Mandalorians mind there being so many clones in our law enforcement?" wondered Omega.
"Some have raised concerns over ones not hailing from their respective aliite having jurisdiction in their territory.
Many clans prefer their territories guarded by their own members.
I overheard Rook telling Neyo, 'my clan's suspicious of you being a spy for another clan, but I want to bring you into my clan, and my bed anyway, ner cyare Ney'ika,',"
"Subtle," chuckled Barriss.
"As subtle as Anakin trying to hide his marriage." joked Katooni, earning laughter.
Later.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, Palace, training room.
Finishing a practice duel, Katooni asked, "Dad, what lightsaber Form was that?
I didn't recognise it,"
"That's because it wasn't a lightsaber combat Form.
It was a duelling Form used for physical blades, not lightsabers."
"So you were using a Form a Jedi wouldn't anticipate facing during a lightsaber duel, to catch me off-guard?"
"Yes, and I made a point of learning every swordplay style possible.
Given I have both a beskar sword and lightsabers,"
"That's awesome, Buir, and some of the movements you used reminded me of Form II, Makashi."
"When the ancient Jetii were developing Form II, they were greatly influenced and inspired by a traditional swordplay style known as Fencing."
"Cool."
As they sat cross-legged with their eyes closed, the father and daughter replenished their energy.
Stepping onto a round training mat, after consuming a light meal and having a drink of water, Katooni drew her lightsaber, and ignited its silver blade.
"Assume a defensive stance, Form III," instructed Galen as his Padawan obliged, then six training remotes floated around her, "Padawan, I'm going to time you, and keep count of your deflections, redirections, use of the Force, and evasive manoeuvres.
And Barriss is on standby in case of an injury,"
"Okay, Buir,"
"May the Force be with you."
Allowing the Force and her instincts to guide her as the exercise began, Katooni deflected several sting bolts back at the remotes whilst narrowly dodging others, then she leapt into the air with a backflip as a practice lightsaber slashed at her from behind.
As she landed behind the training droid, putting it in the way of several bolts which hit, Katooni deflected a shot, and Force pushed the training droid off of the mat.
An hour later.
The difficulty settings gradually increased before she defeated Proxy's Maul training module, then her spare lightsaber flew into her free hand as its bronze blade sprang to life.
Focused, Katooni utilised the additional blade against HK-47 who stepped onto the mat.
Unlike the 25 remotes she'd just defeated, she had no idea what tricks the infamous HK-47 might have in store for her.
Sensing immediate danger, she called upon the Force to shield herself from a stream of fire.
"Hey!" interjected Galen, "No lethal weapons!" before HK shut off his flamethrowers, "and use sting mode only,"
"Are you okay, Katooni?" asked Barriss, concerned.
"I think so,"
"Do you want to finish for now?"
"Not yet, I want to see how I do against HK."
"As long as you're sure, love."
"He just tried to fry me, so it's only fair I kick his shebs to make us even."
Advancing towards the assassin droid, Katooni slashed at him, but he side-stepped and fired a grappling line which wrapped around her waist, pinning her arms to her sides until she cut herself free, and deflected a series of bolts.
30 mins later.
As she dashed back, and stepped onto a flat, round object which clicked, Katooni found she couldn't move her feet as a cold foam-like substance kept them in place, "Uh-oh!"
Relentless, HK-47 unleashed a barrage of low powered sting bolts, whilst dual wielding blaster carbines, which she deflected for around ten minutes, before the inevitable happened.
"Ow!" yelped Katooni as her left hand was stung, making her drop the extra lightsaber which she telekinetically used to slash HK's weapons in half, threw them across the room with the Force, and subdued HK with electric judgement.
"End simulation!" called Barriss and Galen.
Having recovered, HK-47 regained his composure, "Declaration: Game over, meatbag.
Praise: Your skills in deflection are more than satisfactory for a child." as Katooni extinguished her blade before removing her helmet.
"How'd I do, Dad?" asked Katooni as she caught her breath, and massaged her sore hand whilst the foamy substance evaporated.
"You were amazing, Kat'ika," answered Galen as he approached, and met her at eye level with a smile.
"And to last as long as you did against HK-47, an assassin droid built to kill Jedi, is an incredible achievement for a first year Padawan." continued Galen, "I'm very proud of you, my deeply treasured Kat'ika,"
"Thanks, Dad," appreciated Katooni who blushed at the high praise, "when HK-47 got involved, I was afraid he'd use live rounds on me,"
"We'd never let that happen, Kat'ika.
And using electric judgement against him was good thinking,"
As she came over to the Tholothian whose left gauntlet she removed, Barriss examined the child's hand, "Well done, Katooni, sweetie.
Now we're going to the infirmary to get this looked at, okay, darling?"
"Okay, Mum."
Gently planting a kiss upon the little girl's temple, Barriss informed, "Afterwards, I'll run a nice, warm, relaxing bath for you,"
"Sounds good," agreed Katooni before the healer picked her up, "Oh!"
"All aboard the halls of healing express." joked Barriss, making Katooni giggle.
As his betrothed and Padawan departed, Galen's smile faded as he whirled around, and gripped HK-47 with the Force, "What made you think it was appropriate to use a flamethrower and mines on Katooni during her deflection exercise?"
"Query: It was a test, correct?"
"Katooni is a child! My child!
And what you did was overkill!" reprimanded Galen as he dropped the combat droid, "be thankful your blasters were only set to sting, or you would be sent to maintenance in pieces."
"Question: would I be in such trouble if they were set to stun?"
"With the firing-rate of the blasters you were using, stun rounds could've been lethal anyway.
Or caused lifelong internal problems,"
"Observation: Meatbag Anakin's training for meatbag Reva involves a circle of soldiers firing stun rounds at her, to block, until she's 'out cold,'."
"Come again?" asked Galen, hoping he'd misheard.
"Continuation: He makes her repeat the process several times in a row without rest or visiting the infirmary or a medic between time.
Assessment: That is a sloppy, time wasting, ineffective, and inefficient way to train an apprentice.
Observation: stun rounds cannot be deflected, and the time between meatbags being stunned and awakening is practice time lost."
"He's making her do what!?" demanded Galen.
"Confirmation: It is as I said, Master."
"Oh, I'm going to have words with him about this."
When Ani's pj-clad hologram faded into view from BD-2's projector, Galen folded his arms, "Anakin Skywalker, we need to talk, right now."
As a drop of nervous sweat trickled down his forehead, Anakin quickly did up his bed shirt, "About?"
"It's come to my attention your method of teaching Reva deflection is bordering on, if not is, outright child abuse."
"W- what do you mean?"
"I'm referring to you repeatedly having her stunned into unconsciousness by troopers, as part of her deflection training.
You could give Reva lifelong nerve damage, or worse injuries."
"Who told you about this?"
"Anakin, what were you thinking?
Are you trying to give her nightmares about Order 66 happening?"
"I don't want to give her nightmares, especially not about that.
All I want is for her to be able to protect herself,"
"If you want her to hone her deflection skills, use the blaster sting mode during deflection drills.
That way it'll actually give her something to deflect or dodge.
And for the love of the Force, use the damn training remotes like everyone else.
Don't make her cannon fodder and target practice for soldiers."
"Any other tips?"
"Ensure a medic is always on standby, and give her regular breaks.
Have some variety in the practice targets and opponents.
Also, mind the firing rates of the blasters used.
In game terms: let the beginner go through the tutorials and level up at their own pace before adjusting the difficulty settings.
Don't put a level one player in a survival mode match against a room full of level 50s."
"Noted, but seriously, who told you about this?"
Ignoring the question, Master Marek inquired, "Would Artoo, Yoda, the Jedi Council, your mother and stepfather, Kitster, Owen, Beru, Padme, Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, Ahsoka, Rex, Coric, or Kix approve of the way you've been conducting Reva's deflection drills?"
"No, they wouldn't." conceded Anakin, "and it seems I owe my Padawan a big-time apology.
But it's kind of hypocritical coming from the guy who programmed his training droid to try and kill him, as part of his training."
"Be glad it was me that spoke to you about this, not someone else.
For a stunt like this, someone could easily press charges, suspend you from teaching, put you on trial, or arrest you,"
"I'm going to come clean about this to Yoda, Padme, mum, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan,"
"Good, maybe they'll talk some sense into you.
Or Obi-Wan will slip some into the tea he'll offer you." said Galen as he ended the call before activating several training droids, and his lightsaber.
An hour later.
As she walked in to see him extinguish his pure white blade, Bo-Katan asked, "So, you and the Mirialan girl are betrothed?"
"Her name is Barriss,"
"She's adorable, although I had my money on you marrying Ahsoka,"
"Speaking of marriage," began Galen who nonchalantly observed Bo's own ring, "You and Fenn Rau take good care of each other, or I'll reign both of you in,"
"We will," assured Bo-Katan, "and you know it's traditional for a Mandalorian to be married by 16?"
"I haven't had a very traditional upbringing," he reminded, "and that tradition generally applies when marrying another Mandalorian,"
"Point taken."
"Did you want something?
Or are you just congratulating me on my engagement?"
"Queen Riyo Chuchi of Pantora is here to see you."
"Queen?"
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, palace, throne room.
As he entered to see his old friend, Galen greeted, "It's lovely to see you, Riyo.
To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Riyo, adorable and beautiful as ever, wore a rose red V-neck dress, and shoes, her hair down, a gold diadem, amulet, earrings, and bracelets.
Throwing her arms around him, Riyo smiled, "It's been far too long, and I've missed you, Star,"
"Missed you too, Riy'ika," he returned, "also, you're the Queen of Pantora?
When did this happen?
I thought Pantora was a democratically elected government."
Stepping back from him, she elaborated, "Following Exar Kun's murder of my family.
And we are a democracy of the people which is how the first King of Pantora was chosen, and how our modern government came to be."
Removing his helmet, he said, "You have my deepest condolences for your losses, my fair lady.
If there's anything I can do for you, you need only ask."
"Will you love me as I love you?" she inquired, gazing deep into his eyes like a Porg whilst a tear trickled down her cheek.
Wiping away her tears, he planted a gentle kiss upon her forehead, and reassuringly embraced her whilst sending soothing vibes through the Force.
"I will forever love and hold you in my heart, Riy'ika,"
"Thank you, and may the Force bless you,"
"It already did when it introduced me to you, Riy'ika." he smoothly said, making her blush deeper than she thought possible.
"Riyo, it's wonderful to see you again," greeted Barriss as she appeared, "what brings you by, my lady?"
The young Queen hugged Offee, "You already know, dear." as Ahsoka and Maris walked in.
"Hey, Starguy," greeted Tano.
"Soka'ika, Maris, it's great to see you," greeted Galen, "What's going on?"
"Barriss, Riyo and I have agreed to share you, so all three of us will be marrying you," answered Snips, much to his surprise.
"And I just tagged along so I could see the look on your face, which was totally worth it." added Brood.
Taking a moment to process the declaration, Galen stated, "I'm going to meditate on this, and see what the Force wills regarding this, while you discuss it further."
"You do that, and we'll raid your pantry because the flight here from Coruscant was long," quipped Ahsoka, "that's okay, right?"
"Make sure you save plenty of food for Katooni and Omega.
The former had deflection training which HK-47 invited himself to, so she'll have built up an appetite."
"Who's Katooni?" asked Riyo.
"My Padawan, and second daughter,"
"Oh!" gasped Chuchi, "I look forward to meeting her.
I'm surprised I haven't yet,"
"You'll love her,"
"Mand'alor is a type of King, yes?"
"Some have described the role as a combination of both a Warrior King and a military's highest rank,"
"Then I'll be meeting your little Princesses." giggled Riyo as Ahsoka pulled everyone into a group hug.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, palace, meditation chamber.
Floating, Galen meditated with several kyber crystals around him, and recited, "I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me.
Those who came before, be with me, for I need your guidance.
Be with me for your wisdom I seek."
"Thy heart shall be healed by the love and matrimony of the three." said a soothing voice.
A divinely breathtaking, emerald haired and eyed woman with glowing light skin, in a white and gold dress, appeared in his mind's eye.
Sensing something much deeper from this new yet familiar presence, Galen basked in the light side's warmth, "Who are you?"
"We are the ones who guard The Power.
We are the beginning, the middle, and the end."
Later.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, palace, dining hall.
Having finished meditating, Galen joined his companions and daughters who were feasting.
As he sat by his daughters, Galen asked, "How are you feeling, treasured ones?"
"Great, Buir," answered Omega and Katooni.
As he gently hugged his daughters, Galen smiled, "I'm glad to hear it."
"Star, while you meditated, we sensed an incredibly powerful light side presence," observed Ahsoka as she eyed him, "do you know who or what it was?"
"I'm not sure, but it felt familiar," replied Galen, "Yet I couldn't quite grasp where or when I could've sensed anything like it,"
"It was so close in signature to your own Force presence we almost missed it," mentioned Barriss, "We only felt it as strongly as we did because of our Force bonds with you."
"So, what'd the Force say to do?" asked Riyo as she wiped her mouth with a napkin, "Are you marrying us too?"
"When I asked the Force for guidance, an answering voice told me 'thy heart shall be healed by the love and matrimony of the three,'," answered Galen, "so I'd say the Force itself wills this union, but is this what all three of you want?"
"It is." confirmed Offee, Tano and Chuchi.
"So, who's Dad marrying in addition to Barriss?" asked Omega.
"That would be Ahsoka and Riyo," clarified Barriss, "we'll be marrying each other as well.
Unconventional, but it should be interesting,"
"Cool."
"Marriage is basically a no for Nightsisters," mentioned Brood, "since it clashes with Dathomir's social hierarchy."
"Really?" wondered Katooni, "what do they do instead?"
"Mostly, they use the Nightbrothers as servants or breeding slaves, then kill them after having a desired number of offspring with them, or when they're of no further use,"
With a shudder, Katooni winced, "That's horrible, and really disturbing."
Horrified, Omega's eyes widened, "Oh, no! Tech!"
"What is it, ad'ika?" asked Barriss, concerned, "did you sense something?"
"N- no, it's just Tech and Asajj are a couple now.
Does that mean he'll be killed if they have kids together?"
"Ventress loves him too much to let that happen.
And can you really picture Tech trying to seduce Ventress into sleeping with him?"
Bursting into laughter, Omega mused, "It'd sound more like a lecture, a thesis, a hypothesis, or a scientific publication."
"That's Tech, alright." agreed Galen.
"Since I've adamantly refused to participate in the archaic practice, Mother Talzin assured me I won't have to," mentioned Brood.
"Who's Mother Talzin?" wondered Katooni.
"My mum, and my people's leader."
Seated beside Ahsoka, Visas interjected, "My people believe love unites, not binds till their lives end,"
"So the Miraluka don't get married?" asked Omega.
"We do not make binding vows of marital nature, for the form of love one feels towards another may change over time.
With that understanding, we do not marry,"
"That's a better answer than mine." mused Maris.
"How will Shaak Ti react to this, Ahsoka?" wondered Riyo as she turned to the Togruta.
"Stuff like this sometimes happens on Shili, to ensure the survival of near-extinct bloodlines,"
"That sounds rather convenient since Galen's one of two remaining in his bloodline, that we know of,"
"The Force works in weird ways."
Turning to the Pantoran, Star inquired, "What's the current situation on Pantora, Riy'ika?
Does it have anything to do with your request to marry me as well?"
"I want to marry you because I love you.
However the kisses we've shared recently came to light in the Pantoran people's eyes,"
"And Pantoran royals aren't allowed to kiss on the lips, or sleep in the arms of a non-relative, outside of wedlock?" deduced Galen, "and we've done both."
"That's correct, and I beg your pardon and forgiveness for not telling you when we were kids,"
"There's nothing to forgive, Riy'ika," assured Galen, "I suspect they kept such details from you until you were of a certain age,"
Riyo gave an appreciative smile, "Thank you for understanding, Star."
"How'd they find out anyway?
The Paparazzi? A political rival?"
"The Assemblies thought a royal marriage would help restore peace, and brighten the future of Pantora in the wake of the murder of my parents, the King and Queen, who were dearly loved by all.
They were discussing dozens of candidates when your name slipped out along with mention of our kiss in the halls of healing,"
"Fair enough."
As she walked in, Aayla asked, "What's going on here?"
"The number of fiances Galen has just increased by two," casually answered Ahsoka, "specifically me and Riyo,"
Barriss added, "Myself, Ahsoka and Riyo agreed to it before telling him.
We just sprung it on him when Ahsoka and Riyo came to visit,"
"Very interesting, and cheeky of you," mused Secura who placed her hands on her hips, "I can't say I didn't see this coming."
With a soft smile, Galen took Barriss's hand, and recited, "Mhi solus tome, mhi solus dar'tome, mhi me'dinui an, mhi ba'juri verde."
The Mirialan Jedi Knight's eyes lit up, "Mhi solus tome, mhi solus dar'tome, mhi me'dinui an, mhi ba'juri verde." before tenderly kissing her Husband.
Curious, Riyo wondered, "What'd you two say?"
"The Mandalorian marriage vows.
In basic, they mean 'we are one when together, we are one when parted, we will share all, we will raise warriors'." answered Galen.
"That's so sweet," mused Chuchi, "shall we say it together now?
Or has there been enough excitement in that area for one day?"
"That's up to you and Ahsoka." stated Galen before the Pantoran and Togruta recited the vows whilst holding his and Barriss's hands.
Innocent, Omega asked, "Does this mean I have four mums now?
Shaak Ti, Ahsoka, Riyo and Barriss?"
"If that's what you want, then of course, sweetie." answered Ahsoka.
"Yay!" gleefully exclaimed Omega before the newlyweds had a group hug with the kids and Aayla.
As she ran up to and warmly hugged Petro who arrived with Obi-Wan and Luminara, Katooni greeted, "Hi, Pe'ika!"
"Hello to you too, Kat," returned Petro.
"I've missed you,"
"Missed you too."
"Speaking of things missed, what events have we missed?" asked Luminara.
"Galen, Barriss, Riyo and Ahsoka just married each other," answered Secura.
Luminara raised an eyebrow, "I beg your pardon?" before they were filled in, "somehow I'm neither surprised nor disapproving."
Stroking his beard, Obi-Wan inquired, "Galen, dear one, are you sure you can manage having three wives?"
"I'm sure I'll find a way," assured Galen, "if I can manage all of my other duties, I would hope I can manage my love life,"
"Indeed, though I worry it may cause tension or rivalry between Ahsoka, Barriss and Riyo,"
"Technically they've also married each other, so there's that too,"
"Indeed."
Noticing the body language of Petro and Katooni, Aayla teased, "So, are you little lovebirds next to tie the knot?" making the Padawans blush.
Petro gently held his girlfriend's hand, "Katooni showed me the visions of our future selves getting married and having a family.
And that's a future I'd be honoured to see come to pass when the time comes." before the Tholothian kissed him.
"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Pe'ika," mused Katooni as she rested her head on Petro's shoulder.
"I love you too, Kat'ika." returned Petro whilst wrapping an arm around Katooni, his affection for her radiating in waves.
"We should probably let the people know about your wives, daddy," mentioned Omega, "and have their armour forged,"
Galen nodded, "Agreed."
"This should be interesting," mused Luminara, "I wonder if there'll be any challengers disputing their worthiness, and trying to take your places,"
"They'll get their shebs kicked." replied Tano, "I wonder if anyone will try challenging Petro's worthiness to be with Katooni, or vice versa."
Holding his girlfriend's hand, Petro stated, "In that fight, I'll hit the jealous jerk harder than Anakin hitting Senator Clovis," earning amused laughter.
"The challenger could also be a protective parent, son," pointed out Obi-Wan, "after all, a warrior would want to keep their lineage strong."
Katooni wondered, "If that's the case, how'd I even get considered for joining one?
I wasn't exactly an impressive option,"
"There are many forms of strength, my dear.
For the greatest strengths lie beneath the surface," replied The Master of Soresu, "one who struggles, as I did when I was your age, may have more latent potential than one who initially seems a prodigy."
"Mum, did Dad really struggle as a Padawan?" asked Petro, shocked as he looked up at Luminara.
"Oh, he certainly did for much of his time as a youngling," confirmed Luminara, "if there's one thing he's always been, besides highly intelligent, it's persistent,"
"Especially when I was negotiating with Lily about us beginning to date," added Obi-Wan, making the present company chuckle, "and for future reference, 'Lily,' is one of my affectionate nicknames for Luminara,"
"Awesome." mused Petro.
Later.
Interior: Mandalore, Sundari, palace, ballroom, evening.
As the room filled with guests, in formal attire and ceremonial armour, celebrating, Galen passed a drink to Bardan, "Gal'gala, vod,"
"Cheers, Mand'alor." replied Jusik as their tankards clinked.
"We've come a long way since the day we met," mused Galen.
"I'm honestly surprised you've lived so long, vod," chuckled Bardan, "with all the crazy osik that keeps happening around and to you,"
"Agreed." chuckled Etain as she joined them.
"You have no idea how often I think that about him, kid," chuckled Bo-Katan, "especially given how I met him,"
"You know I was initially tempted to kill you, because of who you were working for?" asked Marek.
"Oh?"
"Until you took off your helmet, and spoke to me, revealing your humanity, I thought you were just another faceless traitor in armour you had no right to," bluntly said Galen, "only reason I didn't kill you was because I knew you were a woman.
And a very beautiful one at that."
"Ouch." exhaled Bo-Katan with a shocked expression before Galen laughed, "w- what's so funny?"
"I never had any desire to kill you.
I just wanted to see the look on your face upon thinking I did,"
"Not funny." muttered Kryze.
"You've never wanted to kill me?"
"First time for everything, like right now." teased Kryze.
"Try it, and I'll make your pretty face a darker shade of black and blue than your armour," interjected Barriss, with a mischievous expression as she joined them.
"Is that so, doctor?" chuckled Bo-Katan.
"Never mess with a Jedi Healer," advised Barriss, "we know all the best places to strike, even when the one we're striking is wearing armour."
Passing a drink to the Mirialan Jedi, Bo-Katan raised her own drink, "Cheers, Jetii."
Accepting the drink, Barriss clinked her glass with Bo's, "We healers also know all of the best, deadliest, and subtlest poisons and toxins, and how to conceal them," then winked, "Drink well while you can, Bo."
"You're cute when you're threatening," mused Kryze, "and do I even want to know how you know so much about poisons and toxins?"
"Who do you think administers their antidotes and cures?" asked Riyo, in burgundy red and gold Mandalorian armour, as she joined them.
"Point taken, and do you even know what the colours you're wearing represent?" questioned Kryze.
"Star explained it to me a long time ago, which is why I wear these colours in general.
As a Senator, I was honouring my family by taking a role connected to leading my people.
And gold is for the vengeful wrath I unleash upon my political enemies and rivals."
"And here I thought you were just an adorable, soft voiced, sweet talker,"
"That's just how I present myself in the Senate.
But some idiots mistook that to mean I was helpless and untrained in combat.
Their mistake since I've had commando training, and many years of self-defence lessons."
"Since when do you have those?"
"Since I was old enough to start training, but I have to be very careful when and where I use it.
Not to mention serving in the Senate has a tendency to attract assassins when you're not corrupt.
Just ask Padme, or Galen since he's intercepted and killed most of her would-be assassins."
As Katooni joined them, Bo-Katan turned to the Tholothian, "Hey, kid, how did you and Galen meet, anyway?"
"When I was about six, he would sometimes help instruct my Initiate clan in the basics of lightsaber Form I: Shii-Cho." answered Katooni.
"Actually, we met long before then, sweetie," informed Galen.
"Huh?" asked Katooni, confused, before BD-2 projected a hologram.
(Begin holo-recording.)
13 years ago.
Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, nursery.
Entering with the Grandmaster, Galen observed the names of several new arrivals and infants, "Cal, Gungi, Ganodi, Zatt, Reva, Grogu, Petro, Byph," then the Force guided his gaze to a tiny Tholothian girl, "and Katooni."
"Adorable, isn't she?" asked Stass, who was on duty.
"Is she yours?" blurted Galen, "she looks nearly identical to you in your baby photos from the archives," making Stass blush.
"She's my niece," softly said Stass, after a slight pause which Marek noticed, "would you like to hold her, Star?"
With a nod, Galen removed his helmet, vambraces and gauntlets before the baby girl was gently lifted into his waiting hands by the Force.
Delicately cradling the child, Galen smiled before tiny Katooni opened her eyes, and smiled ever so innocently at him, melting his heart.
"Daddy!" gleefully exclaimed baby Katooni before drifting off to sleep again.
Gently planting a kiss upon the precious baby's temple, Galen carefully set her back down in her cot, and softly said, "Sweet dreams, Kat'ika."
With an adoring smile, Stass mused, "That was her first word."
(End holo-recording.)
As the hologram faded, Katooni looked up at her father, "Awwww, that was so cute, Buir,"
"That's quite possibly the most precious thing I've ever seen." mused Barriss.
Mando'a translations.
Jetii - Jedi.
Barr'ika - little Barriss.
Omega'ika - little Omega.
Ome'ika - little Omega (as an alternative to Omega'ika.)
Kat'ika - little Katooni.
Pe'ika - little Petro.
Riy'ika - little Riyo.
Soka'ika - little Soka.
Ney'ika - little Neyo.
Barr'Buir - Mama Barriss.
Star'Buir - Papa Star/Papa Starbird.
Buir - parent.
Gal'gala - cheers.
Vod - brother/sister.
Mand'alor - sole ruler.
Mhi solus tome, mhi solus dar'tome, mhi me'dinui an, mhi ba'juri verde - we are one when together, we are one when parted, we will share all, we will raise warriors.
Allite - clans.
Cyare - beloved.
Cyare'se - loved ones.
Ner - my.
Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum - I love you/I will know you forever.
Shebs - butt.