Professor Farnsworth: Good news, everyone!
I'm back with another chapter. I'm a bit behind schedule so I do apologize for that. It's not as long as the last chapter but still plenty of entertaining stuff for everyone to dive into.
Considering the mood of the upcoming chapters, this one is on the lighter side. It isn't Star Wars without a bit of levity before shit hits the fan XD
In any case, let's do some reviews today
TheNexusEra- That quote is better than the one I used haha. I think Ahsoka is pretty resilient though. She's going to want to move at a quicker pace than Luke.
edboy4926- Hey, thank you! Unfortunately I only just recently learned about Ood Bnar and it's too late to insert him in this story at this point. But perhaps I will include him in another fic :)
OdeClock- Pacing is everything in a chapter that long haha. It really is the turning point. Luke took a big gamble and it paid off. But don't worry, I haven't forgotten about Dooku, he's going to factor in more. I was also hoping someone would catch the 'from a certain point of view' reference, couldn't resist haha.
Haywire Eagle- I do too. But I never quite felt sorry enough for Bariss to think she didn't deserve to be thrown in a cell. She still killed people for really no reason at all.
AllegroGiocosco- Glad you are still enjoying:) Luke and Ahsoka becoming knights is only the first step. There's a lot more to come.
Ander Arias- I figured I was taking a bit of a risk keeping Bariss as she was, but I hoped having her become an agent of Dooku as part of a deliberate plot to frame Ahsoka as opposed to random coincidence, would be enough to make it unique. It's a fair criticism. I will fix that other typo to 'hilt' lol. And I will be addressing Anakin's theoretical promotion in the next couple of chapters. Definitely haven't forgotten about that.
Guest- Not everyone can be saved. If this were the original timeline I might agree, but she willingly became Dooku's Padawan. Luke has to keep focus.
Zero- I'm so glad you noticed that scene because I got chills writing it too. It's exactly the mood I was going for.
Western Witch- There's actually a bit of hidden irony. The more Luke changes, the more events change and it's causing Palpatine to speed up certain aspects of the Grand Plan which you'll see more of in the coming chapters. In this case they hastily tried to get rid of Ahsoka and it backfired. I'm glad you mentioned the Council too because they are about to feature quite prominently. So glad you think so highly of my fic:)
dragonagegirl- Oh, you. Stop ;) Jk love your reviews :)
MountainBrookSage25- Binging as fast as you did is rather impressive haha. Very glad you like it!
UnOriginal2Tall- Haha, okay that was one of your better jokes XD
Sorry, I couldn't get to everyone today but I always do my best to respond. Keep the reviews and feedback coming :) it's a great motivator for any writer.
Keep the reviews and feedback coming :) it's a great motivator for any writer.
Onwards with our story!
"After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one's own relations."- Oscar Wilde
Chapter 19. Dinner at Padme's
Being made an official Knight of the Order brought about many changes for Luke Skywalker. The first was the most obvious: he was now in full service to the Republic and Jedi Order, operating in an official capacity instead of the gray area he'd been in for the last three months. As a result, padawans were to refer to him as 'master' which he'd been used to in the past but hadn't heard for a very long time.
The second? He now attained the rank of General as did any Jedi above the designation of Padawan. Ahsoka received the same distinction and was given a portion of Plo Koon's 104th 'Wolfpack' battalion, given that she and Koon shared a strong bond. Though not working directly under Anakin anymore, she would still be in frequent contact as many of the legions often worked together jointly. This also meant Luke was promoted to lead his own battalion in the 501st. Anakin still technically had full command but now they'd officially be seen as equals.
Perhaps most importantly, with the return of Ahsoka to the Jedi Order Anakin's spirits were lifted considerably and it had a butterfly effect on everyone else. Obi-Wan certainly seemed less uptight, though Luke supposed Satine might also have a little something to do with that. But with the rising darkness, every victory, every tiny bit of good fortune meant more and more. With the Clone Wars in its third year of conflict, even many amongst the Order were growing weary, and that weariness threatened to create more discontent among the ranks, more rogue Jedi like Barriss. The impact of those such as Ahsoka, Obi-Wan, Anakin, and himself became increasingly vital.
Above all, he was simply glad that there was someone else he could trust in his plans. The ghost of Master Yoda had warned not to speak of the nature of his presence in the past until the timing seemed right. Telling Ahsoka, a friend and a skilled, trustworthy Jedi of her own merit, not only eased the burden but proved a critical ally at an equally critical juncture. As the weeks went by they spent more time together. Luke steadily fed more information about the horrors to come and their planning for them.
"I don't know how we're going to stop the war," he admitted to Ahsoka one day over lunch. They were tucked away in a back corner to prevent anyone else from overhearing them. "But I do know how Palpatine plans to end it."
"If he really is the Sith Lord the Jedi have been looking for, why haven't you told the Council? Better yet, why haven't you told Obi-Wan or Anakin?" Ahsoka countered.
"Multiple reasons. Number one, Palpatine knows my presence here is unusual. I don't think he's come to the conclusion I'm a time traveler from the distant future but he knows something's amiss. I've been a hindrance to his plans and the man would love nothing more than an excuse to kill me. Second, I can't change too much too quickly. I was advised not to tell anyone about the true nature of my presence here. If word gets out, we're doomed."
"And the third?"
"Anakin trusts Palpatine like a second father. Obi-Wan believes too much in a system that doesn't work anymore. As for the rest of the Council, well they just nearly threw you out without so much as an effort to resist Tarkin's demands. Does that sound like a group of beings ready to accept that they're secretly being controlled by a Sith Lord?"
Ahsoka couldn't argue with that.
"Good point. But there's one thing I haven't been able to figure out. You told me Anakin stormed the Temple and killed all the Jedi. But how is that possible? He's the most talented Jedi in history but even he couldn't take on thousands all at once."
Luke drained his glass and pushed his plate away, unable or unwilling to eat anymore. Ahsoka could recognize whenever something gave him emotional stress and guessed the answer would not be pleasant to hear.
"He couldn't take them all. Except if the 501st Legion was there gunning everyone down alongside him."
Ahsoka nearly spit back up her food.
"I'm afraid to ask the reason how that happens," she said after swallowing with some difficulty. "Rex, Cody, Wolffe, Bly...none of them would kill their friends."
"You're right. None of them would...willingly. But like most things the Sith touch, they get ruined. The clone army commissioned by Master Sifo-Dyas was sabotaged by Dooku and Sidious. Each clone currently contains a genetic biochip in their brain linked to one of the one hundred and fifty emergency protocol orders programmed into their genetic code. In this case, Order 66."
Ahsoka knew all of the contingency orders and had never heard of such a thing.
"But Order 66 is only when a Jedi goes rogue against the Republic."
"On paper, yes. But behind the scenes, Sidious distorted that contingency plan and many others. The secret directive designates every Jedi as a traitor to the Republic marked for execution. The chips are linked to a central computer in the Republic databank mainframe, designed to respond to the Chancellor's voice command. When that happens, the clones will essentially be brainwashed, overriding any past memories or personal feelings towards the Jedi..."
"They'll have no choice but to kill us," Ahsoka finished for him, horrified. "That's just...cruel."
"Now you know what we're up against," Luke stated quietly but emphatically. "This isn't some run of the mill conspiracy. The enemy surrounds us. It threatens to destroy everything we care about and twist a good man into an unrecognizable monster."
"Sooo…" Ahsoka said slowly. "We should be focusing on removing or disabling those chips."
"Still working on that part. Equally as important we have to keep Anakin away from Palpatine as much as possible."
"Agreed. But he hasn't been receiving those nightmares of Padme dying right? What incentive does he have to join the dark side right now?"
"Nothing, yet. But mark my words, Palpatine is finding a way as we speak. He knows exactly which buttons to push. The best course to take…"
"Well, you two are as thick as thieves."
They'd been so caught up in their conversation Anakin sneaked up on them with ease, causing Luke to jump ten feet in the air and Ahsoka to put her hands up in a fighting gesture.
"Whoa, take it easy. I was only kidding. What are you two talking about anyway?"
Thankfully, it did not appear he'd properly overheard them as his posture remained cocky and loose.
"Nothing, Master," Ahsoka responded smoothly. "Just stuff about the war."
"You don't have to call me 'master' anymore, Ahsoka remember? You're a Knight the same as I am with your own toops."
"Old habits die hard, I guess," she said with a smile. "I learned from the best after all."
Anakin smiled in appreciation.
"And I couldn't be more proud. But in any case, I came over to tell the two of you that Senator Amidala is throwing a celebration in honor of both of you being knighted."
Luke and Ahsoka looked at each other in surprise.
"That's awfully kind of her," the latter finally said.
"She's an amazing lady," Anakin affirmed. "It's tomorrow night at nineteen hundred hours. Obi-Wan is also going. Also I should mention it's plus one. So if there's anyone you want to bring along, feel free."
Anakin looked quite pleased at the prospect of hosting a party with his secret wife, unaware the two Jedi in front of him already knew the said secret.
"We'll be there," Luke said. "Bringing anyone yourself?"
"Ummm, nope. Going stag as all Jedi do. See ya there."
Ahsoka eyed Luke the second Anakin was out of sight.
"You said that on purpose, didn't you?"
"It's not my fault he's completely obvious about his feelings for my mother," Luke shrugged.
"I assume this little shindig didn't happen in the original timeline?" Ahsoka digged.
"Obviously not. Seeing as you're still in the Order for a start. My presence here has already changed a great deal and it will get harder and harder to predict."
"But we still know the basic outline of what's going to happen. And besides, I'm actually kind of looking forward to this party."
Luke raised an eyebrow.
"You are?"
"Come on, Luke, don't pretend you don't want to spend a little more time with your mother. I know I said before that you share similarities with your father, but let's face it- gentleness, self control, unwavering compassion? That's all Padme."
She looked up towards the ceiling, putting a finger to her cheek and struck a false pose.
"Come to think of it. You've probably been conceived by now. Tell me when do you think that was? A month ago, two weeks-"
He'd had enough of her teasing and used the Force to send the rest of his lunch into her face. It was so fast she had no time to react.
"Your thoughts are duly noted, Miss Tano."
"Skywalkers," she muttered, wiping the food off her face. "You definitely get that part from Anakin."
"Anyway, I have an idea about the plus one."
Ahsoka perked up at this, giving a trademark mischievous smile.
"I'm listening."
Obi-Wan Kenobi was a Master of the Jedi Order and sat on the High Council. He'd been a part of many battles, fateful duels, and events that shaped the galaxy. To be assisting with a dinner party seemed...anti-climactic at such a point in the war they were currently fighting in.
"Obi can you please hand me those plates? And please don't use the Force this time. I'd rather not drop another one."
Sighing, he acquiesced to Satine's request.
"It is not my fault you lack Jedi reflexes."
"Indeed, but it is your fault when you don't listen to your girlfriend," she took the plates from him and was rewarded with a soft kiss on the cheek.
"I'm not sure why Senator Amidala wants to throw such an enormous bash. Being knighted is certainly worthwhile to acknowledge, but with Senators and others?"
"You know perfectly well why she's doing it," Satine responded as she began setting said plates along with silverware inside the plush apartment condo. "Padme has been an extremely gracious host and has assisted me a great deal during this time. Not to mention two of her husband's best friends have just received an incredible honor."
Obi-Wan looked at her sharply.
"Satine, please don't say that out loud."
"Obi-Wan I know you haven't lived this long by being stupid. Clearly you've noticed what's going on between those two."
"I have," he stated plainly. "Contrary to what Anakin thinks I am not blind, though I have tried to be for his sake and Padme's. That does not make it wise to speak of it openly."
"There's only the two of us in here," the Duchess pointed out.
Sighing, the Master Jedi marveled that there wasn't more gray in his beard.
"The point is, the Council's position on attachment and marriage hasn't changed. If they were to find out about him and the Senator it could carry serious repercussions."
Satine ceased her preparation efforts and slinked over to her boyfriend.
"And what about us? Do you not worry about being found out as well?"
"You know I do," he said, taking her hand in his, drawing her close. "We're just better at hiding it."
"Also because we love each other. And we recognize our relationship does not threaten any moral code set out for us by our respective positions. You are fully aware that the Council is not always right."
"They just don't want to create more Barriss's," he offered weakly.
"It seems to me they do a fine job of doing that already. Barriss also wasn't in love with anyone as far as I know. It's not an accurate comparison."
He couldn't argue with the logic of that. Lately he'd been rethinking some of his previous beliefs regarding the Jedi. And while he still believed in the core aspects of the code, some seemed to reflect the decline of the Order and the Republic itself.
Maul warned me that we were working for the Sith without knowing it. Could he be right?
"You make a good insight. And I've already made my choice. I will not abandon the Jedi Order but given the choice between them and you…"
He kissed her deeply to emphasize the point.
"...you know which side I will take."
"What a hopeless romantic you are, Obi-Wan Kenobi," Satine said softly yet teasingly as she ran a hand over his beard. "But I am not so much worried for us, as I am for Skywalker and Senator Amidala."
The Jedi rubbed his beard.
"What do you mean?"
The Duchess began putting up some decorations as a means to live up the scene.
"From what you'd told me, Anakin is not particularly good at emotions or keeping them in check rather. He was a slave until he was nine, no?"
"That's right."
"He lost his mother at nineteen to Sand People. His attitude apparently remains willful and struggles with the burden of being the Chosen One as you've told me."
"That is correct. Where are you going with this?"
Satine turned back to face him and adopted one of her more serious looks.
"We're old enough and wise enough to make something like this work. Your former padawan clearly isn't. He needs our support, yours most of all."
Obi-Wan saw that point of view but nevertheless felt extremely uncomfortable at sharing that particular detail of his life. It's not that he didn't want to help. He'd been trying off and on for years. But he and Anakin were two different people who dealt with their respective issues differently. Then there was the matter of being able to keep it secret.
"Anakin is like my brother. I love him as one," he finally stated. "But I don't think right now is the best time to speak to each other about that sort of thing. When the war is over and the dark side defeated, he'll be the first person I speak to about reforming the Jedi Order."
The Duchess debated arguing the point but thought better of it. She respected her boyfriend's line of work as he did with hers.
"I understand. But please, let him know he's not alone, and that we all care. If he chooses to open up about his relationship to Padme, don't turn him away."
A soft, gentle look entered Obi-Wan's light, azure eyes.
"Of course. That will never be in doubt."
Satine nodded, knowing that Obi-Wan's heart would never stray from the right place. She always admired his selfless devotion to duty, the same as her.
"You also ought to talk to Luke about reforming the Order as well."
"Yes, he will be a part of that discussion. Ahsoka too."
"He was the one who finally pushed you into my arms, after all."
"Remind me to send him a thank you note."
The Duchess chuckled.
"Don't be boorish. Now I'm going to need some help on these decorations."
"Oh, so now you want me to use the Force."
The couple continued the same song and dance the entire afternoon. Just as they always had.
On off days Luke and Ahsoka enjoyed visiting the barracks and shooting the breeze with the men of the 501st. Of course, on their latest incursion there was more than one reason.
"No way, you're telling me you pulled a fast one on the General?" Fives laughed.
They sat around a specifically made table the men used for card games, arm wrestling, or drinking. Usually all three. Some of the clones hung up top on their bunks, looking on.
"Yup! All part of the plan. We wanted to surprise him. You should have seen the look on his face."
Several of the clones openly snickered. Luke rolled his eyes but gave a smile, letting them have their laugh.
"I don't get it, though," Echo said, scratching his head. "What's the difference between what General was then and now?"
"Well for one he's a General not a commander anymore, genius," Hardcase said with a bark like laugh. "Come on, Echo, you're not that slow."
"Get bent, you know what I mean. Everyone's saying he's a Jedi now. Personally to me, he always was."
"They have a whole system just like we do in the military," Kix informed them. "But every Jedi Knight is a General. Every Padawan is a Commander. And so on."
"Sooo what was he before if he wasn't a Padawan?" Tup asked, confusedly.
"Eh, just forget it," Jesse dismissed with a wave of his hand. "You numbskulls aren't bright enough to catch on anyway."
"Don't sweat it, Echo, Tup," Luke said with a casual shrug. "I didn't really know what I was half of the time either. Anakin sort of requested I be placed under the 501st and here I am."
"And now you're officially a general. We couldn't have a better leader, sir," Dogma told him genuinely. For once, his brothers agreed with him.
"Here, here," they all echoed.
"Just as long as you don't tell General Skywalker you all actually like me better."
That earned him a few hearty laughs. It was one of those moments Luke had really learned to appreciate over the years. The clones represented a kind of camaraderie missing since the days of the Rebellion. Being a Jedi could be a lonely life, especially when you were the last one. He adored these men.
"Hey guys, I heard Clone Force 99 painted a mural of Senator Amidala on the side of their gunship," Hardcase said enthusiastically, switching the subject.
Luke and Ahsoka looked at each other. None of the clones besides Rex knew the true nature of Anakin and Padme's relationship. Thankfully, the Captain nipped it in the bud rather quickly as he stepped in the room.
"Knock if off, Hardcase," Rex admonished. "She's a Senator and will be treated with respect at all times."
"Sorry, sir was only joking," (even Hardcase's rebellious nature had its limits) he apologized. "I'm sure General Luke has seen plenty of beautiful women in his day."
"I have," Luke said with a wistful smile. He'd met many in his travels, though his work in rebuilding the Jedi Order prevented him from truly settling down. "And I won't be telling any stories this time Hardcase. You'll have to use your imagination..or a left hand."
The other men began howling with laughter as they began relentlessly ribbing their compatriot, enabling Luke to talk to Rex privately.
"Good to see you, sir. Any news on the front? New orders?" the Captain asked as he approached.
"As a matter of fact new orders did come in today."
"We're standing by as always, General."
"Good," Ahsoka chimed in. "Be at Senator Amidala's Coruscant residence tonight at nineteen hundred hours, stat."
Rex made like he didn't quite comprehend what he just heard.
"What?"
"There's a party tonight and Luke and I are allowed to invite one guest apiece. Guess who we chose?"
"But..you…I don't-"
"Don't worry," Ahsoka assured in a way that didn't sound like assurance at all. "Cody's also invited too. You won't be alone."
Luke couldn't resist a teasing smirk, one shared by his Togruta counterpart. To see Rex this flustered fell under the term priceless.
"Well...uh...all due respect sirs...I'm not sure I'm the right kind of person for those kinds of uh..affairs," he finished lamely.
"Nonsense, you're exactly the right kind of person. Luke and I were just knighted. It's a special occasion. We've fought side by side for years. There's no one better."
Rex continued to flush with embarrassment, though both Jedi could sense he was also appreciative.
"I'm flattered really. But...I'm not sure what I'd wear to be honest with you. Closest thing to a party I've been to is seventy nines…"
"All officers have a standard gray civilian uniform, I'm sure that'll do nicely," Luke suggested.
"But-"
"That's an order, Captain," he interrupted with a wink. "We'll see you tonight. We're off to tell Cody."
Without further ado, Luke and Ahsoka left the barracks leaving Rex to take in just what he'd been roped into.
"Do you think we went a little too far on him?" the blond asked.
"Nah, I've known Rex a long time. He's fine. And he'll definitely enjoy himself after loosening up a bit."
"I heard Anakin's the co-host."
Ahsoka grinned widely.
"You probably know this about your dad by now. But with Skyguy there, it'll be a night never to be forgotten."
The hour came all too soon and soon the guests began arriving. For his part, Luke wore his finest white robes, shaved fully, and even combed his hair into a side part. Ahsoka donned the closest thing she had to formal wear- a red, long sleeved dress that hugged her curves and came down to about mid thigh, along with gray tights and heeled boots. Obi-Wan wore his typical garb of a brown cloak, matching belt, light tunic and brown boots, though he had trimmed his beard and put a little product in his hair.
"Uhhh so are we dressed properly for this?" Luke asked as they entered the luxury apartment building, escorted by Senate guards to the elevator lift.
"Well I know I certainly am. I have to wear this stupid thing," Ahsoka grumbled, tugging down at her dress.
"I'm sure we'll be fine," Obi-Wan said, most accustomed to these kinds of affairs both in experience and attitude. "The Senator is quite welcoming and will ensure all are comfortable in her abode."
"It's not the Senator I'm worried about. We know Padme, it's just the...fanciness of it."
"Well fear not. Every guest is someone we've met, including one you might be happy to see."
Ahsoka narrowed her eyes.
"What do you mean, Master?"
"You'll see," was all that came out of the bearded smile. The elevator stopped and opened up to a marvelous scene. The space had been set up beautifully with a dining table set up in the middle of the open floor plan which also contained two couches, a bar room table in the kitchen, and an open window that held a grand view of the city outside. Marble pillars and symbolic statues adorned the sides, while Satine's efforts in decor paid off brilliantly.
"Wow," was all Ahsoka could say in amazement looking up at everything.
"For once my former padawan has no words," Anakin said humorously as he and Padme walked up to greet them. He hadn't deviated that much from his standard attire. But the Senator was positively radiant. She wore a silver dress covered with sparkles that expanded in an A-line to the floor, dark brown hair braided down her back. It lit up the entire room.
"Master Obi-Wan, General Luke, General Ahsoka, it is a great privilege to have you all here tonight," she said warmly. "Since you are the guests of honor I hope you don't mind that everyone else arrived before you."
Indeed, the rest of the invitees, including Cody and Rex, were already there making small talk.
"I suppose it's just as well," Obi-Wan said with a shrug. "I see Satine did a fantastic job."
"She's been a big help around here and an absolute pleasure to live with. But don't just take my word for it, see for yourself."
"And also, have a drink!" Ankain put two beverages into Luke and Ahsoka's hands, no one bothering to care if the latter was of age this time around.
"I too shall take you up on that offer," Obi-Wan said in a monotone following his former padawan to retrieve a beverage.
"I used to wonder how he handled the stress of the war...now I know," Luke muttered, causing Ahsoka to giggle. Nevertheless they followed the hosts into the living area. Clapping sounds began as Luke and Ahsoka made their presence known and they couldn't help but bow in appreciation.
"Don't be bashful," Anakin teased. "Smile and wave for the people."
"You're impossible Skyguy," Ahsoka cut back.
"Not his fault, he can't stand not being at the center of attention," Luke teased.
"Normally you'd be right," the Chosen One said with a laugh. "But not this time. Having you both by my side means more to me than you could know."
The blond saw that these were the kind of instances where Anakin was at his best: thankful, gracious, generous, and wishing nothing but the good fortune for those he cared about most.
And yet the Council sees that as attachment, Luke thought to himself in frustration. If they could see the positive aspects of how much he cares and desires to help people Sidious wouldn't have a chance at turning him
Putting that aside for now, he vowed at least to try and have a good time with so many politicians around. Padme, his mother, was one thing but in general he cared little for the squabbling, corruption, and ineptitude that drove the Republic into decline in the first place. Leia would definitely rip them all a new one if she were here. It brought a small, private smile to his lips picturing his twin sister dressing down a group of older, decadent politicians.
About a dozen or so people were there. Aside from his fellow Jedi, Rex, Cody, and Padme he didn't recognize anyone. But there was one other familiar face.
"Lux," Ahsoka said, unable to resist blushing. "I didn't realize you'd be here."
"Special surprise," the handsome Onderian Senator said, beaming at her. "Senator Amidala told me this ceremony was in your honor. I couldn't miss it."
"Well...thank you. I'm really glad you came."
Luke gave her a small elbow in the ribs and received a backwards kick to the shin in return. Hopping briefly on one foot he decided to leave the two teens alone in favor of another group.
"Rex, Cody. Looking very sharp indeed," he said to the two clones who were sharing a drink among themselves. They both donned the proper gray, Republic uniforms with matching caps as part of their formal wear.
"Thank you, sir," Cody nodded. "And thank you again for inviting us."
"We're still not used to this sort of thing," Rex gestured with his hand. "But the Senator has made us feel right at home."
"Trust me, it's going to get a lot better once we get past the formality," Luke said with a low chuckle. "Anakin bought two full containers of Jawa Juice for the evening."
Both clones looked at each other with raised eyebrows.
"Is that what this is?" Rex asked, peering down at his glass, having little experience in discerning different kinds of booze other than beer and hard liquor.
"Wine from Naboo," Luke informed him. "You'll know when the Jawa Juice starts being passed around."
"I figure that'll be when General Kenobi starts making toasts. The man loves hitting the sauce more than I care to admit," Cody said with a rare laugh.
Just then, someone else caught Luke's eye. Someone he hadn't spotted at first but became increasingly familiar. A man in flowing, blue Senatorial robes with silver trimming. Black, receding hair atopped his crown, complimented by a sporting goatee. They'd never met but his name was legendary in the New Republic: Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan.
He excused himself and headed over, the wheels of his mind turning quite quickly.
"Senator," he greeted with a bow.
"Master Luke Ahch-To," Organa responded with a friendly smile. "Congratulations on your Knighthood. I've heard so much about you."
"Likewise, I hear your presence in the Senate is unmatched, perhaps save for our gracious host."
Organa appreciated the humor and Luke could see at once why the man was so revered. Calm, patient, and committed to working for a better future but lacking the arrogance and false integrity of other Senators more concerned with lining their own pockets.
"Believe me, if Senator Amidala were running this government I think we'd all be better off." He took a sip of his wine and added. "You didn't hear that from me though."
"Far from it to get involved with politics," Luke responded.
"But that's not quite true is it?" Organa said, giving him a curious look. "It was you who brought to our attention the unjust circumstances the clones served in."
"I only seek to right wrongs just as you do, Senator."
He was testing the man ever so slightly. The suggestion he'd bring up later would be highly controversial but the proper lane into that conversation did not exist...yet.
"If only it were that simple," the Alderaanian sighed. "The war has made hypocrites of us all, I'm afraid. The Republic as you can probably tell is...not what it once was. Sometimes I don't even recognize the institution that claims to represent the entire galaxy."
There it was. The proper lane. Luke chose his next words carefully.
"I merely fight the war on its behalf," he said with the ode of a simple man, taking a sip of his own drink. "But as a Jedi one tends to notice things."
"I'm sure."
"Including the fact that the Chancellor has amassed a rather disproportionate amount of power for himself, wouldn't you say?"
Organa's eyes hardened but not due to the line of questioning.
"That is not lost on me. The Senate has given up much of its authority as a result of the conflict with the Separatists. I admit I consented to the granting of emergency powers to the Chancellor when it appeared there would be no other option. But as the war continues to progress his executive prerogative increases."
"And in your view has the Chancellor acted in the best long term interests of the Republic?"
"I believe he tries as best he can. As for long term interests of the galaxy, that's another matter altogether."
It was a testament to the benevolent face Palpatine put on that he could fool the Jedi and good, perceptive men like Bail Organa. But not entirely. The look on the Senator's face radiated frustration and more than a small amount of suspicion.
"Does it all concern you he may not give up the powers consigned to him?" Luke asked pointedly.
"The thought has crossed my mind. But there is little to indicate that will happen. Palpatine is not as squeaky clean as his record suggests but he largely keeps his promises."
It was his turn to ask pointed questions.
"Better yet, does it concern you Master Jedi?"
"I merely serve the Republic," he answered diplomatically. "At the same time, I also care about its preservation. The Jedi are apolitical but we are not amoral."
"I am certainly sensing that from you, General Luke."
"There are more besides me. Consider that as we move towards victory in this war, it will lead to the destruction of the very thing we all took an oath to defend. Consider...Order Sixty-Five."
There was no doubt he had Organa's attention now. Luke debated whether or not to plant that seed but there was more than one good reason why. The first being that Bail remained one of the few willing to stand up to abuse of power from the Chancellor. His integrity even earned the respect of those who sat at the opposite end of the political spectrum. Lastly, as a member of the Loyalist Committee, he would have the ear of those also on the fence about the increasing autocratic nature of the Republic. A man with the capability of leading trillions of people in the postwar world.
Once Sidious is gone, once true balance and peace is restored
The clanging of a utensil against a glass sounded signaling the start of the meal.
"It is time for us to rejoin our colleagues and friends. You've certainly given me much to think about, Master Jedi," Organa said politely with a bow.
Heading back to the table he caught a questioning glance from Ahsoka wondering what he was doing, deciding on telling her later. For a brief night, he could let his mind wander and enjoy a party in his honor. The table was set, the guests seated, and glasses filled.
"Everyone," Padme announced, rising from her chair. "I'd like to thank everyone for coming tonight. A special thanks to Master Skywalker for being my co-host…"
Anakin gave a boyish grin and tipped his glass towards her.
"...Master Kenobi and Duchess Satine for the lovely decor…."
The still unknown couple gave each other a knowing look.
"...to Commander Cody and Captain Rex. Two valiant men who have an equal stake in our democracy as any other…."
They both nodded politely.
"...but above all we celebrate the recent knighthood of two people we couldn't imagine without. To Ahsoka Tano and Luke Ahch-To, Jedi Knights and dear friends. I raise my glass to you."
Everyone else followed suit and the forty eight year old couldn't help but be extremely touched by the gesture. He could feel the same in Ahsoka as well. His mother truly had a gift for speech making, a sentiment his father echoed.
"Couldn't have put it better myself, m'lady. To Luke and Ahsoka!"
"To Luke and Ahsoka!"
The toast concluded, the evening settled in and everyone was subjected to a five course meal with delicacies representing many parts of the galaxy, alongside plenty of fine wine and alcohol. Luke had never sampled some of them before, however, found everything delicious. But that wasn't the part of the party that he enjoyed most, not even the fact that this celebration honored him. It was the people.
Being particularly strong in the Force combined with his spiritual mastery, he could sense and take in all of the emotions and feelings around him. All across the table different people mingled with those they might not otherwise have come into contact with. Senator Organa was in deep conversation with Commander Cody, Satine and Ahsoka were laughing about something or another, Padme and Obi-Wan were debating the role of the Jedi in postwar life, Rex and Lux discussed their respective adventures together on Onderon. It lightened his heart and sparked the fire of hope ever brighter within.
This is the future that never was...but could be
Taking all of this in, Luke allowed the light to touch his innermost essence. It felt soothing and healed inner wounds that he thought might never close. Master Yoda had been right all those years ago, sometimes it was the little things in life, the ordinary windows of joy that truly kept the darkness at bay.
However, in going so deeply into the Force, he felt something else. Something familiar but not quite able to discern…
"To the living area!" Anakin announced, after the last of the plates had been taken away. "The fun has just begun!"
The party reached a new level of engagement, but Luke had his eye on other things, namely Padme Amidala, the mother he still didn't quite know yet. Sure they'd interacted many times, worked together in the legal emancipation of the clones, and become something like acquaintances. However, Ahsoka hadn't been too far off the mark in her earlier teasing. He very much desired to familiarize and bond with the person so many said he took after.
Seeing and sensing an opportunity, Padme stood quietly, amused at the antics of her secret husband and Obi-Wan (both were in a friendly but alcohol infused argument about flying). Luke came up next to her and smiled.
"Really something...the both of them."
Giving a rare but faint giggle, the Senator concurred.
"When I was told stories about the Jedi as a young girl, this is certainly not what I imagined."
You and me both, Luke thought with a silent laugh of irony.
"To be fair, I felt the same way."
Padme nodded and looked at him directly now.
"Anakin told me you weren't raised at the Temple. That you grew up on Tatooine."
"That's right."
"Just like him," she commented softly.
"I've always found the fact that we share a home planet endearing," he said with a smile before continuing to explain. "I was raised by my aunt and uncle. Anakin was fortunate to know his mother."
"You never met your parents?"
"They both died before I was born," Luke said evenly trying very hard to ignore the aching sensation in his chest as he said it.
A pang of sympathy welled in those deep, brown eyes.
"I can't even imagine. I'm so sorry."
"It's okay, I learned to live with it a long time ago."
That statement was only partially true. For having never met the Senator, even seeing a statue or hologram, his connection to her felt distant and even unattainable at times. But with the miracle of time travel, that had changed.
It suddenly occurred to the blond that for all the history and background surrounding his father, he knew virtually nothing about his mother. Leia had spoken seldomly about their parents after the fall of the Empire, partially out of shame, partially due to necessity as a result of the connection to Vader. Padme Amidala had been a faceless mother; legendary in circles that sought to restore the Republic. But very few had actually known said legend.
"I'm curious, m'lady," he said politely. "For all the questions people ask about me, I rarely hear any about you. What is your story?"
Padme suddenly appeared surprised and gave a minor shrug of the shoulder.
"Well there isn't much to tell."
"I'm sure that's not true. Especially for someone of your stature."
"Well I suppose you might be right. My entire life has been devoted to public service. I joined the Apprentice Legislature on my home planet of Naboo when I was eight years old."
"Eight?" Luke asked incredulously. By the Force, the more he learned, the more his mother continued to impress. "You weren't kidding."
Giving an appreciative smile, Padme continued talking about her background, encouraged by the Jedi's response.
"I'm sure you were already made aware of this, as it's common knowledge, but I was also elected Queen at age fourteen."
"I was told, m'lady but not the age."
"I've had a tendency to attain positions before it is typical of someone my age or gender to do so. That has never stopped me from doing what's right," she added with principled determination.
"If only more Senators had your generosity," Luke remarked.
"Not just generosity," Padme corrected as she took another sip of her wine. "Duty. Someone has to stand up for the forgotten victims of this war. For those who don't have the ability to defend themselves or make their voices heard in an institution more focused on military equipment and interest rates. That's why I do what I do."
Though not of the Force, he could sense their bond growing by the second.
"I...understand completely."
He meant every word, and right away his mother could tell the same.
"You truly are the most unorthodox Jedi I've ever met."
"Not everyone thinks that's a good thing."
Padme turned fully towards him now, her expression open but also curiously melancholic in a strange way.
"I admire and love the Jedi, Master Luke," she said. "But aside from a few, I find the Council often lacks, or perhaps ignores the common humanity all beings share. I don't know much about the Force but...they seem afraid at times."
For someone who claimed not to know much about the Force, she was quite insightful, and even somewhat correct.
"Their mistake is equating any sort of passion or love with an inherent path towards the dark side," he said, making a slight observation of his father, still talking animatedly with Obi-Wan.
"Love compromises our devotion to our duty, some say."
Luke realized the Senator was speaking of her own relationship to his father and offering a small litmus test. What would a recently anointed Jedi Knight have to say about such a subject?
"Love, empathy...faith in other people is a duty. If more of us did so, the galaxy would be a better place."
Leia had once described their mother as a beautiful yet sad sort of person despite having never actually met her. Luke often thought that his sister either sensed her distress during childbirth (though he himself could not) or imagined it to fill a constant, gaping hole of absence. But now he could see that on full display as Padme internally wrestled with her decision to marry Anakin and the toll it took on their respective lives.
In the same moment, that melancholic, serene expression softened into one of pure happiness and affection. Only it was directed towards himself.
"Thank you, Luke."
She smiled. A motherly smile. One Anakin adored so much, now freely given, unknowingly, to her son. And it nearly made Luke melt.
"It's no trouble, m'lady."
The conversation then moved to lighter topics; stories on Naboo when she was a little girl, adventures with her handmaidens, meeting Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Anakin for the first time, Senate orientation and much more. Luke loved every minute of it. Every second he spent taking in the words of the woman who birthed him was a treasure to be held. To even scratch the surface of Padme Amidala...by the Force what a blessing. Time travel, though it could be a double edged sword, had provided an exceedingly rare gift.
He again thought of his beloved sister.
Leia, I wish you were with me to witness this. She would have loved you...Han too...I think, he thought, chuckling at the prospect of the famed smuggler meeting an esteemed member of the Galactic Senate who's daughter he later wed.
Hours later, the effects of the alcohol and food began to take their respective toll. Ahsoka and Lux, being younger, had already fallen asleep on one of the couches, the Togruta's head resting in his lap. Some of the other Senators had called it in but Anakin used the Force to lift one of the steel canisters of Jawa Juice while Rex and Cody watched impressively.
"Perhaps it's time we wind down," Satine suggested to Obi-Wan who was also quite inebriated though hid it much better.
"Oh, Satine, I'm...sure Padme has everything under control," he slurred, lamely lifting another drink to his lips before the Duchess took it out of his hand.
"I think you've had quite enough for one night Master Kenobi."
"Someone might want to tell his protege that," Luke commented. He was buzzed too but not quite at the level of his father or Obi-Wan. However, that didn't concern him much. Nodding towards the other side of the living room, Anakin had stumbled across back to Padme in order to flirt with her.
"Has anyone ever told you look like an angel?"
"Anakin, please. There are people around."
"I'm s-so...sick of...you know what, Padme. Shhh, oops. Don't tell anyone."
He had put a hand over her cheek, the Senator now incredibly uncomfortable. Only by good fortune that the only people still conscious to witness the act already knew on some level about their relationship.
"Anakin, you're drunk. Just lie down and…"
She stopped and suddenly put a hand to her mouth. Suddenly, Luke knew what was about to happen before it did. Padme tried to run to the bathroom but proceeded to vomit all over the floor. Ironically she was the most sober person in the room.
"Padme! Are you-you alright?" Anakin said, unable to overcome his own drunkenness.
Thankfully there were people in the room far more capable and sober.
"I'll help her to bed," Satine said gently.
"And I'll go grab some wash towels," Rex added as he and Cody went back to the kitchen. Anakin quickly stumbled on an unoccupied chair next to Lux and Ahsoka.
Luke shook his head and flipped his eyes towards Obi-Wan as if to say 'Is it not obvious?' Despite breaking the Jedi Code awhile back with his own belle apparently everyone in the room still wanted to pretend nothing out of the ordinary occurred, not even right in front of them.
"Obi-Wan….surely you must see."
"As I told Satine, it is not my business to interfere..."
He plopped himself down on an unoccupied futon and within seconds fell asleep.
Luke heaved a heavy sigh in frustration. The night had been a complete success and yet the same problems still existed as before.
They're both violating the Jedi Code and yet act as though nothing is wrong. That things can continue as before…
He reached out through the Force to check on Padme ensuring she was not in any danger, a light touch that extended to her bedroom. The same odd presence returned, only this time much stronger. Concentrating his power, he went deeper and listened very carefully.
Bump, bu-bump. Bump, bu-bump.
A rhythmic pattern emerged. At first he thought the sound only resembled one heartbeat, but the more he listened the more it became apparent.
Holy bantha shit she's pregnant
One heartbeat became two and two became three as the full implication hit him all at once.
Though barely resembling fetuses, both he and Leia now existed.
The race against the Paradox had officially started.
It was extremely difficult to arouse the kind of anger in Darth Sidious he currently felt. And the person responsible was none other than Luke Ahch-To. Now a Jedi Knight and with the power of command in the Republic military he had graduated from nuisance to a full blown problem in his quest to rule the galaxy.
The plan to remove Ahsoka Tano from the Jedi Order had officially failed. She remained at the Temple in full capacity, a close friend and compatriot to Skywalker. Tano represented everything the Sith Lord despised and with her wielding influence over the boy, the once inevitable fall to the dark side all of a sudden no longer seemed assured. In fact nothing about the current situation was.
Within the galaxy the war raged on and on, which was fine by him but only to an extent. In controlling both sides one had the benefit of being able to prolong the conflict, especially as the Supreme Chancellor while Dooku did everything as asked on the other end. But the citizenry grew increasingly tired of the constant fighting. The Jedi even showed signs of becoming resistant in continuing to obey every order without question. And there were times where they grew close, far too close, in knowing the real truth surrounding them.
Clenching a hand into a fist, Sidious gnashed his teeth and cracked his knuckles. He could not establish unopposed rule without the Jedi being eliminated. Even with Order 66 waiting in the wings, he'd have to justify probable cause or some sort of rebellion to the Senate. Even with accumulating the power currently amassed, he did not have nearly enough control over Republic bureaucracy or the financial system to warrant such a move.
Skywalker
He was still the ultimate prize, the true centerpiece of this plan. Without winning Anakin over, there would be every chance the boy might turn on him or worse yet, stab a blade through his side. Even as an all powerful Dark Lord, he could not guarantee victory over someone with that kind of limitless potential. Nor for that matter over someone else with the same limitless potential.
Luke Ahch-To
That someone that powerful could not be swayed or even appear tempted by the dark side irritated Sidious to no end. Even those such as Mace Windu required extreme lengths to hold their inner darkness at bay. This out of nowhere vagrant held more control than any Jedi he'd ever seen, including Master Yoda. And despite the humble portrayal the middle aged man liked to give off, the Sith wasn't stupid. Luke Ahch-To had an agenda and by now it became clear what that was: opposing him.
Contemplating fervently, Palpatine weighed his options. At this point in time, to eliminate this newly inducted Jedi would be too dangerous and any benefit outweighed by the potential blowback. Time remained in order to deal with this quietly.
No, something else. I cannot wait much longer
Dooku no doubt desired the former Jedi, Offee, as his new apprentice, most likely in yet another attempt to build power at the expense of his own. The girl didn't quite know of his double life, but she was too close for comfort. She needed to be eliminated. One of many who still stood in his way...
If there was one thing he'd learned from his late master is that plans need not be set in stone. That principle separated the Sith from the narrow, dogmatic, small minded Jedi. Plagueis may have been dead weight by the time of the Naboo crisis, but this particular lesson was still useful. Evolution and adaptation were crucial in the final stage of implementing the grand plan.
Slowly, the creases of the Sith Lord's mouth upticked into a diabolical smile.
By the end of the next month, two tops, he would finally have the power so long desired and the Jedi a mere ancient relic of the past with no hope and no future.
Time to contact Lord Tyrannus and enact the next phase of the Grand Plan.
It is a strong headcanon of mine that had Padme somehow survived, Luke would have been such an adorable momma's boy XD he really does take after her in so many ways. Plus, I couldn't resist them all getting drunk haha. All around good fun! But surprise! Padme's officially preggers! Ruh-Roh.
Next update I will try to get out before the end of the month but if not, it will at least be by early November.
Rock on!
~The Wasp