Hello, friends!
Surprise, surprise! I have finished this chapter long before I anticipated doing so and am delighted to share it with you as an early Christmas present. This one wrote itself, I must say. It might be one of my favorites for multiple reasons.
I'm going to wax poetic a bit here. What has driven me to write this fic? The idea and hope that in some other time or some other universe, Anakin is happy and living with his family. That he did not have to suffer the way he did. That Luke and Leia grew up in a world raised by two parents. And Padme did not die.
This is the culmination of that wish. It's the beauty of fanfiction, for all of its complications. Others have had their own stories and interpretations. Here is mine:)
I hope you enjoy!
"The soul is healed by being with children."- Fyodor Dostoevsky
Chapter 50. Rebirth
One month later…
Holonet News, 06:32, Rotation 21 in the twelfth month of our year
Center Plaza
Bail Organa and the Liberal Party Win Landslide
Formal elections were held across the galaxy with every world deciding which of its citizens will represent them in the newly created Galactic Union.
It came as a surprise to no one the Liberal Party, led by Bail Organa of Alderaan, earned over two thirds of the seats. Organa, who was instrumental in the defeat and removal of Sheev Palpatine aka Darth Sidious, is widely expected to be nominated as his party's choice for the position of First Minister, a replacement for the former role of Supreme Chancellor.
"The easy part is over. Now comes the hard part: governing," Organa said to his supporters during a victory party at his private estate just outside of Aldera. "It is one thing to declare change, quite another to enact it. I guarantee the people of this Union one thing; that no matter what happens or what crises lay ahead, we will never fail to act."
Organa has promised sweeping legislative reform, and, with a veto proof majority, there is little to stop him from doing so. Already he has pledged to make good on his vow to break up mega corporations such as the Trade Federation and use their assets to fund post-war reconstruction as well as putting their leaders on trial for war crimes. Other campaign promises include reducing the military budget, providing humanitarian aid to devastated worlds, tightening regulations on the Banking Clan, establishing a pension for retired clone troopers, and numerous infrastructure projects.
Satine Kryze, Senator from Mandalore and a key partner in the ratification of the new constitution, was elated and particularly adamant about eliminating slavery.
"We have won a great victory, and that victory will ensure peace for years to come," she said in a statement from the Mandalorian Royal Palace. "As leader of the neutral systems, Mandalore promises to take a leading role not only in post-war recovery, but using our armed forces for noble purposes. Chief among these is the elimination of slavery in the Outer Rim, a cause shared by Senator Amidala."
Long banned in the Old Republic, it has been outlawed once more in the new constitution. The practice of slavery was long thought to be a relic of the past, but it has reared its ugly head in recent years with the return of the Zygerrian Empire and increased prominence of the Hutt clans. How the new First Minister plans to tackle these two entities has not been addressed in detail.
The Jedi Order gave a brief statement, one that cemented their traditional role as peacekeepers and not soldiers.
"We congratulate the new government and wish the new administration success," came the signed document from the Council. "We also look forward to working with First Minister Organa in assisting the galaxy's recovery from a three year war that took the lives of billions. Our resources and personnel are ready to provide aid immediately."
This apology struck some as tone deaf, especially from the leader of the opposition, Senator Avi Singh from Raxus Secondus, a former Separatist.
"The Jedi would do well to remember their part in this conflict. For decades, they blindly served a corrupt Senate without any thought to the people they were supposed to protect. If Master Yoda and his Council wish to make good on their word, they must make amends and ask forgiveness from the people who were hurt by this false war. A war they were too blind and weak to stop."
Singh has vowed to do everything possible to hold the new government accountable and vet any new legislation or cabinet nominee that's put forward.
"The hard reality is that the newly christened Galactic Union is dominated by Core World politicians. Until I see evidence that the interests of the Outer Rim are genuinely heard, I remain skeptical of this administration's intentions."
Still, Mr. Singh struck a solemn, even conciliatory note.
"The galaxy is whole again and the war is over. The one thing I can say of the gentleman from Alderaan, is that he is genuine in desiring peace. That's enough for now."
Organa's oath of office will be administered today and he is expected to mark the occasion with a vote of solidarity, signifying the birth of the Galactic Union as an official holiday….continued on page 4.
Other Headlines-
Nute Gunray Speaks Out: I was framed! Pg 3
We Had No Idea! Robal and Juwee Naberrie on their daughter's secret marriage Pg 5
Famous Dug Podracer dies on Tatooine Pg 9
Luxshoka, Obitine…which Jedi and Senator will get together next? Pg 10
Baby Boom! Senator Amidala Showing Off Massive Bump! Pg 12
Where is Anakin Skywalker? Slayer of Sidious Hiding From the Public Eye *Exclusive Scoop on Pg 20
Lights, flashes, cameras, clapping. Most politicians were used to these things and rarely viewed them as anything other than an annoyance. Bail Organa could remember many times when the galactic paparazzi thought it was a good idea to interrupt him and Breha during an otherwise mundane activity.
Today he basked in the glow of those lights. As he prepared to be sworn in as Minister, the full amalgamation of everything he'd worked for reached its apex in a gradual swell of cheers. A thunderous applause for democracy.
"Ready?"
Mon smiled at him, just as proud, and no less aware of the gravity of the moment. She and several others- including the newly selected Vice Chair Fang Zar- stood just beyond the edge of the domed Rotunda. Outside, a large crowd of supporters, onlookers, politicians, reporters, and sky-cameras assembled to witness the day that would usher in a new era for the galaxy. Coruscant's sun blazed brightly in the glow of the early morning as if affirming that era.
"Not quite. But then again who among us is?"
A fair point. Bail returned the smile before taking a glance around him. In addition to Mon, several others would be joining him during the ceremony, including a handful he had in mind for cabinet posts- Giddean Danu, Riyo Chuchi, Tendau Bendon, Yarua, and Satine Kryze. One person of note was missing, however.
"Has anyone seen Senator Amidala?"
Mon's slight anxiety only served to emphasize just how loud and excited the crowd was. The Naboo people made a habit of being fashionably late, in fact, it was a tactic Padme often used as a way to gain the upperhand in a negotiation against proud, patronizing males who might otherwise dismiss her. But she was never tardy for occasions such as these.
"I'm sure she's fine. Perhaps a wardrobe malfunction of some kind," Bail offered as a theory. He knew just how extensive the woman's closet was.
"Satine, have you heard anything?"
The blonde Mandalorian shook her head. As the girlfriend of a prominent Jedi Master in proximity to another who'd married their colleague, she'd become something of a liaison between them.
"Not that I'm aware…" she took a small glance behind the red satin curtain and into the front row of seats. "...that's odd."
"What?"
"The Jedi Council is there but Obi-Wan is conspicuously absent."
Wonder turned to increased disquiet for Mon Mothma. She turned to one of the blue Senate guards.
"Find out where she is."
Bail had to ease the tension. After all, despite being recently named Senate Majority Leader, the Chandrilan wasn't that much older than Padme and needed a gentle hand once in a while.
"I'm sure everything is fine," he said in a reassuring tone to everyone present. "The crowd can wait at least five more minutes."
"Minister Organa!"
One of his aides, a twenty year old lad from his home planet by the name of Geord and the son of one of Breha's courtiers, came rushing through the backstage. He didn't even bother giving identification to the guards.
"Sir, I have news you'll want to hear."
Bail leaned in as the boy bent over, breathing heavily from the running his aristocratic legs were not used to. Mon lost a bit of patience in her anticipation.
"Well? Spit it out then."
"What is it, Geord?" Bail said a bit more kindly.
"It's Senator Amidala…she's entered labor."
That certainly sent a shockwave throughout the company. Mon's mouth opened and even the normally smooth and suave Bail Organa fumbled to find the right words to express himself.
"Well…that certainly explains her absence," he finally said. "My fellow colleagues, I believe that Senator Amidala is currently preoccupied with something far more important. I'm sure you'll join me in visiting her after this ceremony concludes. In the meantime, let us pray for our friend's health and that of the newborns."
Ready and eager to get underway, the First Minister beamed a great smile and stepped past the curtain, greeting the crowd with the first of many waves to come.
Three hours earlier…
"Threepio!"
For most of her pregnancy, Padme had maintained robust physical and mental health. Even as her stomach ballooned to an enormous size, she didn't suffer from some of the classic insecurities other women did (it helped that Anakin always insisted she was beautiful no matter what).
But when her water broke, she'd never felt more like an overstuffed sausage, helpless and incapable of moving.
"Threepio!"
The golden droid came tottering in her bedroom, flustered from his owner's uncharacteristic yelling.
"Mistress Padme! Oh I am so sorry I did not arrive sooner! Are you-"
"Don't apologize, just help me up," she groaned.
"Oh! Yes, yes right away!"
Threepio assisted in getting her off the floor and into a sitting position against the edge of the comforter but could do little else.
"The babies are coming," she said through gritted teeth. "My water just broke."
"Oh my goodness! Dearest me-"
"Call Anakin first, then my parents" she said through heavy breaths, having little patience for Threepio's alarmed fussiness. "He's at the Temple. Send the code."
"Will you be alright while I contact them?"
"Yes! Go!" she snapped.
Threepio hurried away to the holo transmitter while Padme continued breathing slowly and deliberately, just as the classes taught (Anakin had been a disaster during the birthing simulations). The initial pain had retreated but she'd already started contracting, which likely meant that labor was going to come quick. The Skywalker twins would enter the world with a bang.
"Threepio!" she called out after two minutes of silence. "What's going on?"
"Your parents have been informed and are on the way."
Threepio paused. It was rare when he hesitated in delivering news to her.
"What?"
"I'm terribly sorry, mistress," the droid apologized with a bow as he reentered her bedroom. "But Master Anakin cannot be reached."
Of all the godsdamned days for him to not pick up.
"What the kriff is he doing?"
"I'm not sure. He simply didn't answer."
Padme regretted giving her handmaidens the morning off. They weren't due to assist her getting ready for Bail's swearing in ceremony for another few hours. She'd been warned that twins often arrive before their due date, but this early? Throw in the awkwardness between her parents and her husband…oh yes, this promised to be an extra stressful day.
"Call Ahsoka, Obi-Wan, anyone, and get Anakin to haul his nerfherding butt over here!"
"Yes, Mistress! I shall also call a medical transport."
Usually avoidant of foul language, Padme found her politician's filter evaporating in the face of two babies who were exiting the womb faster than a Tatooine podracer. Wincing as she shifted on the bed, her only thoughts were of Anakin and how she would kill him later if he missed this.
Obi-Wan Kenobi had scarcely sat down for lunch (a meal consisting of bread, mystery meat, brown sauce, and a fruit bowl. He reminded himself to visit Dex's for a milkshake), when an orange and blue blur swooped in behind him.
"Master!"
He'd sensed her but only at the very last second and very nearly spilled the contents of the tray.
"What in the blazes, Ahsoka?" He used the Force to summon the scattered bread back to his hand. "Did you ever scare Anakin like that during his mealtimes?"
"Why didn't you answer your comlink?" she said, not even bothering to answer the rhetorical quip.
"I was in a Council meeting. Every Master is required to turn them off when discussing Jedi business. Standard protocol."
Ahsoka rolled her eyes as Obi-Wan returned to the table and began cutting up the meat.
"Figures…you may not want to sit down for this one, Master."
"And what news, pray tell, do you have? You know we have Minister Organa's inauguration to attend."
Obi-Wan took a sip of water as he awaited whatever harebrained scheme Anakin had cooked up now: overrunning one of the Temple landing platforms, a malfunction after tinkering with his mechanical hand for the umpteenth time, a cache of younglings stealing Master Yoda's underwear and hanging it from a pole. Anakin had matured over the years but his penchant for mischief lingered on…
"Padme's water broke. She's in labor."
The water spewed from his mouth in a large spray.
"Oh."
"Yeah. Oh."
Obi-Wan ignored his mediocre lunch (and the barb) and stood back up.
"Wait a minute, how do you know this?"
"Because Padme just called to tell me," Ahsoka said, holding up her transmitter with no small amount of sass. "That's why I was trying to reach you."
A weighted stone dropped in his stomach as Obi-Wan realized if Padme had tried to get ahold of Ahsoka she'd likely tried to do the same with him as well.
"How was I supposed to know that today of all days would be the one she gives birth to two other human beings? Honestly if…" he stopped and put a hand to his beard. "...hold on, why are you telling me? Shouldn't you be seeking the husband of the woman in question?"
"That's just it! I can't find him. Another reason I was trying to find you. To see if you knew where he'd gone."
They had at last reached the crux of their dilemma. Anakin would never skip out on something like this. So if he couldn't be found, there was a specific reason for it.
"He had a scheduled appointment with one of the mind healers this morning in the Halls of Healing," Obi-Wan said slowly, rubbing his chin. "But that should have ended half an hour ago. Maybe he's training?"
"Already checked the sparring rooms and the gym. Not there." Ahsoka shook her lekku, completely vexed. "I don't get it. You'd think Anakin would be breaking several traffic laws just to get to First Republic General."
That was true. But the last few months had been trying for Anakin in a way few else saw. Publicly, the Hero With No Fear and the Great Negotiator had been the ones to capture Nute Gunray and end the war. He even gave a simplified, redacted version of what happened on Mustafar to the Council and the Senate. Privately, however, he'd conferred with Master Yoda and both of them agreed that Anakin needed extra help. Much as Obi-Wan loved his brother, he couldn't keep covering for him when things went astray. Breaking the law in wartime was one thing, but peacetime was quite another. And Bail Organa's reform minded government would not show the kind of favoritism Palpatine had.
What if he loses control again? He'd asked himself that more than once since the incident. What if he does something so egregious it lands him in prison…or worse?
"He's here," Obi-Wan murmured, conferring with the Force which confirmed the bright star of Anakin's signature was indeed still in the Temple. "I can sense him."
"So can I," Ahsoka said with a shrug. "That doesn't mean I can pinpoint his location. He's pretty difficult to find when he doesn't want to be found."
"Go on ahead and meet Padme at the hospital. I'll rendezvous with you shortly."
"You know where he is?"
Ahsoka may have been Anakin's padawan and surrogate little sister, but she'd only apprenticed under him for three years. Obi-Wan held the distinction of teaching and mentoring the Chosen One for thirteen. He knew quite a lot about his best friend's habits by now.
"I have an idea," he said vaguely. In truth, he didn't know for certain but it was a hunch his instincts told him to follow. "When I find Anakin, I promise I'll have him over ASAP."
Ahsoka's expression was dubious but she didn't say anything else, instead choosing to focus on the welfare of Padme and the soon to be Skywalker twins.
Obi-Wan made a mental reminder to apologize to Satine for missing the christening of the new government, but then again he'd never been too fond of politics.
Sure enough, Obi-Wan's hunch proved to be correct.
In the lower southeastern corridor of the Jedi Temple lay a place of little note: the junkyard. The Order preferred to recycle, reuse, or reprogram whatever spare parts could be used in an effort to be environmentally conscious on a planet known for its excess. But whatever was left over got tossed into a gigantic furnace which was emptied out once a week.
For most, this assortment of trash was an afterthought. For Anakin, it acted both as a den of possibility and a refuge. As a young boy, especially during the first three years living at the Temple, he'd often come here when stressed or when in need of alone time, picking at the parts, adjusting them, and taking a few home. 'Life is easier when you're fixing things' he'd often said. That had abated as his abilities grew and war eliminated any other moment of solitude. Once in a blue star though, Obi-Wan might find him here. Brooding, sulking, or nursing some kind of mental wound. Upon entering the junkyard, he saw Anakin sitting on top of a small pile of scrap, unmoving.
Brooding it is then.
Obi-Wan stopped, reminding himself not to be too sardonic or critical as he had in the past. Though their relationship had improved dramatically, his waspish tongue could still sting. For all his bravado, Anakin was one of the most sensitive people he'd ever met.
"Hello, Master."
Anakin hadn't turned around but the greeting meant he wasn't hostile to his presence. Taking a breath, Obi-Wan decided to join him on the junk pile.
"You haven't been down here in quite some time," he remarked, feeling the metal crunch underneath him as he sat. "Before the Clone Wars I think."
"Right before they started. A few weeks before our mission to Ansion."
Anakin hadn't looked at him yet, switching between looking straight ahead and down as he fiddled with a battery of some kind. Before Obi-Wan could open his mouth, Anakin spoke again.
"I bet you're going to chastise me for being in here when I should be out there. With Padme."
"Not quite," Obi-Wan said diplomatically, keeping his tone neutral. "I was only going to ask why. But how did you know?"
Anakin held up his transmitter.
"We set up an emergency code to signal when she entered labor. That and I could feel it…the twins are already strong in the Force."
Obi-Wan believed that. Setting aside the couple's strong connection to each other, the Temple had become a quiet flurry of gossip over the twins for numerous reasons, one being their presence was impossible to ignore. Even the younglings asked when the babies were arriving. As a result, Luke and Leia Skywalker were already headline sensations even before they were born, much to Anakin's chagrin as what little privacy they'd had was now gone given that the relationship turned public.
I did warn him about that.
"They are indeed," he concurred. "And they'll need their father when they come into this world. Something that did not happen the last time."
Obi-Wan was gentle and kept all traces of condemnation out of his voice. He wanted Anakin to realize the blessings before him. But evidently, it had been the wrong thing to say.
"Because of me," Anakin croaked, clenching a spare part. "She died and it was my fault. They grew up without a mother while their father spent his time murdering billions."
"Anakin-"
"Stop trying to absolve my sins, Obi-Wan." That hiss was more venomous than it had been in weeks. "My children deserve better than me. What if-"
"'If', Anakin. 'If'. You keep using that word as though it's predetermined. Are you truly afraid you'll hurt them in some way?"
"I cut off my son's hand!" Anakin cried. "I tortured my own daughter! How can I be a father knowing what I'm capable of?!"
Obi-Wan stayed silent for a moment. To argue further would be pointless. Anakin could not be reasoned out of his current spiral, nor did he want to.
"I thought the mind healing sessions were going well."
"They…help." Anakin slumped over and settled back into a self-pitying melancholy. "At least I don't get bad dreams as often."
"But the fear lingers," Obi-Wan guessed accurately. "And you've been feeling that since the moment you found out Luke was your son."
The brunette ran a gloved hand through shaggy, light brown locks and blew a sigh. An admittance if there ever was one.
"This is something that I know you despise from the sheer amount of times I've said it…but you must let go."
Anakin began sputtering.
"I…what-"
"I'm not referring to Padme or your children," Obi-Wan said, stopping the protest in its tracks. "Or anyone else you care about. Rather this fear you have of being a monster."
He edged closer, catching Anakin's eye and did not look away.
"A flawed person you may be, but that goes for all of us. The fact is, you are not a monster, Anakin Skywalker. You are brave, passionate, generous, forthright, and will stop at nothing to protect those you love, something I can personally attest to. These are the traits you will pass onto your children."
Anakin said nothing at first. Obi-Wan sensed that he desperately wanted to believe those words, but a dark fist refused to release its grip on Anakin's heart. Not for the first time, he lamented that the Jedi Order (and himself by extension) had ignored or improperly dealt with Anakin's psychological issues…and what that oversight almost cost them.
He tried a different tactic.
"Do you remember the meditation technique Luke taught you?"
"Sort of…" Anakin mumbled.
"As I recall, he taught that focusing on positive emotion can be an effective tool against combating negative ones. Do you still use it?"
"It worked for a while. Before…well everything."
"I would suggest giving it another go."
Anakin's lip trembled, the closest Obi-Wan had seen him to crying since he was a little boy. "I can't do it without seeing…his face," he croaked out.
Obi-Wan's heart gave an empathetic tug of sorrow, but kept his composure long enough to be the anchor his brother needed.
"Do you love him?"
Anakin snapped up at the question.
"What?"
"Do you love Luke?"
"Are you kidding? Of course I-"
"Do you love Padme?"
"Yes."
"Do you love, Leia?"
Anakin began to grow irritated.
"Yes, what does that-"
"That is all you'll ever need," Obi-Wan said simply. "The difference between a Jedi and a Sith, between being a good person and an immoral one, is not some destiny written out for us on a prophecy, despite what my old Master would have said." He gave a whimsical smile at the mention of Qui-Gon and almost thought he heard the old man chuckling behind him. "It is the choice to do the right thing and do justice by other people every day of our lives. You've already made that choice. And that's how I know you'll be an excellent father to Luke and Leia, just as you are an excellent husband to Padme."
Like a ray of sunlight bursting through storm clouds, the auburn haired Jedi saw Anakin smile.
"You're getting good at inspirational speeches, old man."
Obi-Wan chuckled. Some things never change in a Jedi's lineage.
"I just know you well enough by now," he said with a wink and a shrug. "That and you've been avoiding Jobal and Rowee since you've met them."
A humorous flush painted Anakin's cheeks a rosy pink.
"No I haven't," he said sheepishly.
"Right…" Obi-Wan practically sang. "Well then you'd better get your arse moving, otherwise Padme will kill you."
That little reminder lit a fire underneath Anakin, who immediately began trudging through the piles of junk.
"I'm driving!"
"Anakin, wait! Perhaps I should-"
"We both know I'll get us there faster. Now come on!"
Obi-Wan did his best to focus on the renewed purpose of his student rather than the queasiness churning in the pit of his stomach.
One wild roller coaster ride of a journey later, both men arrived in style to First Republic General Hospital.
Padme nearly did throttle Anakin upon seeing him. But in the face of an intense contraction cycle and difficult labor, all was soon forgotten. She squeezed his hand upon reaching the final stages.
"You're doing fine," the doctor, a Pantoran male with a Coruscanti accent, said encouragingly. "Keep breathing."
Anakin had wanted to strangle the man several times. He was just doing his job, but seeing the stoic reaction to his wife in severe pain almost made him go berserk. The process had happened so quickly there hadn't been any time to give Padme an epidural.
"Ani," she said between breaths.
"I'm here love. I'm here."
Through the open window, Obi-Wan, Ahsoka, Master Yoda, Bail Organa, and Satine Kryze observed but kept a safe distance (Threepio and R2 were also present). Jobal and Rowee Naberrie stood outside, respectful of their daughter's insistence that only Anakin be in the room with her. The vast majority of human births occurred without incident, even so to the few who'd seen the memories…well it was best not to take any chances.
"Are you ready?" the Pantoran asked, gesturing for a blonde human nurse to bring over a table of instruments and for another to keep tabs on her vitals.
Padme nodded in the affirmative. She didn't have much choice in the matter.
"They're coming fast," Anakin heard one of the human nurses murmur into the doctor's ear. "We'll need to minimize the blood loss."
Blood loss?!
The anxiety in Anakin's heart shot up from about a 50 to a 100.
"What did you say?"
"General Skywalker, she is perfectly fine," the doctor assured him.
"Don't lie to me! I heard you!"
He stood up to grab the male's shirt but Padme's hand squeezed his own again.
"Ani.."
That gorgeous woman- sweating, hair astray, red faced, swollen, and suffering the pain of childbirth- Force bless her…she tamed him in even in the midst of popping out two babies.
He sat back down and even apologized to the doctor, who placed a hand on his shoulder.
"General, if her life were in danger I'd tell you. Now then, chin up."
Moving with great speed, the doctor went underneath the plastic white hood covering her midsection and began his preparation.
"Jana, make sure the Senator is comfortable."
"On it."
Though he'd hated it before, something about the Pantoran's prior stoicism now came across as cool and decisive. It tempered Anakin's anger. He took a deep breath and tried to focus on Padme. The gauntlet had yet to be run.
Padme looked into his eyes lovingly to convey she was alright and smiled. That smile evaporated when a fresh wave of pain enveloped her abdomen.
"They're coming," the doctor announced. "Get ready to push."
Anakin used both hands to hold onto Padme. An intense fear returned; fear she might die and the babies along with her. Fear of being alone. Fear of not being strong enough if something went wrong…
A gentle nudge came through the Force, massaging the tendons of his anxiety. You can do this. She can do this. She needs you.
The bright signatures of Obi-Wan, Yoda, and Ahsoka were with him, sending a ripple of support through their respective bonds. But far more intense than that was the strange yet familiar energy emanating from Padme. Not a message, but love. Pure and untainted. And love conquered all, even his fear.
"Three, two one…push!"
Padme did as told. With great effort and a cry of pain that, for Anakin, lasted an eternity, the first child entered the world.
"Luke," she whispered.
Anakin stared for so long at the softly crying newborn in the doctor's arm, he almost forgot another one had yet to be delivered. His son was…perfect.
Barely a minute had gone by, perhaps two (he'd lost track by now), and the Pantoran doctor announced the second child was on the way.
"Keep breathing, Senator. We're right at the finish line."
Padme nodded and with a note of discomfort, Anakin wrinkled his nose at the sudden smell hanging in the air. The sterileness of the room could not disguise the powerful mix of blood, musk, and bodily fluids. He marveled at his wife's temerity to undergo such a physical trial.
"Three, two, one…push!"
It didn't take long for the galaxy to hear the presence of Leia Skywalker. Padme spoke her daughter's name and the sound of wailing hit the air.
Just like that, it was over.
"Well done, Senator," one of the nurses beamed as the other one carefully cut their umbilical cords. "Well done."
"Congratulations." The doctor smiled underneath his mask and moved towards Anakin. "General Skywalker, meet your children."
Anakin almost recoiled. Not out of disgust or apprehension but out of some horrific sense he might do something terrible…drop them, hurt them…
He looked back at Padme, weakened and exhausted from the experience, but very much alive. Anakin felt her in the Force. Far from fading, she radiated as bright as the galaxy itself, and the two supernovas in the doctor's arms were her creation. It was…amazing.
Slowly, he reached out and took their blanket covered bodies into the crook of each elbow. What he saw robbed him of words.
Anyone else might have described them as ugly, wrinkled, little red humanoids. To Anakin Skywalker they were the most beautiful things in the universe and he loved them with every piece of his soul as he gazed upon their faces.
"Hi…" he said to them softly.
Luke's eyes opened to reveal baby blues reminiscent of his own and he began cooing delightfully. Leia continued to cry, but this slowly receded as Anakin started to gently rock her. To his astonishment, she too opened her eyes. Padme's eyes; a deep, rich brown.
Though only minutes old, he felt an instant connection with them both. Unconditional love flooded from his heart and into his children. The Force sang with delight. It gathered around the twins, swaddling them in its embrace.
I swear as long as I live, I will love and protect you always.
Anakin finally understood what Obi-Wan had been trying to say in the junkyard. Even some of Master Yoda's backwards wisdom hit home. There was a key distinction between attachment and love. One was rooted in selflessness, the other in self interest. Looking at the faces of Luke and Leia, he knew he'd do anything for them, even if it meant giving up his own life. The dark side couldn't touch that. It would never touch his beloved children.
"Luke, Leia…say hello to your mom."
He brought them down close to Padme, who had enough strength to take Luke in her arms while pressing a kiss to Leia's forehead.
"Ani…I'm so happy," she said joyously in spite of how tired she was. Ecstatic tears trickled down her cheeks.
"Me too, love."
In the hours to follow, both newborns would be passed around and fussed over (Obi-Wan was particularly emotional) by their surrogate uncles, aunts, grandparents, and grandmasters. Their names, sex, weight, and parentage would be recorded in the halls of city registry and the Jedi Temple. There would be plenty of diapers, sleepless nights, broken toys, and Force related incidents. But on this day, Anakin Skywalker remembered the moment he received everything he ever wanted.
A family.
Holonet News, 17:04, Rotation 16 in the second month of our year
Federation and other Conglomerates Broken Up, Gunray trial to start soon
Coruscant Union Hall
A Federal judge ruled in favor of the Organa Administration today, upholding the suit filed last week against various corporate conglomerates. The Trade Federation, Commerce Guild, Techno Union, Corporate Alliance, and two other firms were broken up into smaller entities.
Judge Chakara Vidar, newly appointed to the bench by the Senate, wrote in a scathing opinion that "the Federation and its cohorts have been abusing loopholes in the tax code for years and monopolized their respective industries to the point of ruling over entire systems as a de facto government."
Her ruling strengthens the already strict antitrust laws that were signed into law by First Minister Organa. A spokesman for the administration issued a statement: "We praise the decision by Judge Vidar and hope that this ruling breaks the chain of oppression imposed by these companies on countless billions. This will not only boost the economy and encourage innovation, but set a precedent moving forward for this Galactic Union. Big business cannot influence this government."
The Intergalactic Banking Clan is now the only former institution associated with the Separatists to be spared, given its importance in handling intergalactic monetary policy. It's no longer under executive oversight, but has been sanctioned and placed on a probationary period for five years. All loans exceeding a certain credit threshold must be approved by the newly created Banking Exchange Commission.
In other news, the trial of Nute Gunray and the other former Separatist leaders is set to begin three months from now in Galactic court. Gunray and his associates have pleaded innocent, calling the case 'a witch hunt' as they have been denied bail. Senator Padme Amidala of Naboo has been selected as the lead prosecutor for the Administration, a move some have called into question.
"There is every chance of bias getting in the way," Senator Orn Free Ta of Ryloth said last night. "Given the personal history between the two beings."
But others dismissed such calls.
"No one knows the crimes of the Federation better than Senator Amidala," Senate Majority Leader Mon Mothma of Chandrila said to reporters outside of her office. "Her experience as a monarch, Senator, and servant of the law are second to none. A free and fair trial will be conducted, as former Viceroy Gunray and his fellow defendants are entitled to."
The Federation is probably most notorious for its infamous droid invasion of Naboo thirteen years ago to protest taxation of free trade routes across the Old Republic. Though short lived, it caused considerable damage to the Naboo people, their Gungan allies, and caused the death of a prominent Jedi Master, Qui-Gon Jinn. Up until its dissolution, the Federation maintained every action taken was legal.
Senator Mothma wasn't finished speaking about the ambitions of the new administration, however. When asked about upcoming legislation she promised more to come.
"There are several more bills in committee that we hope to introduce in the coming months over the course of several legislative sessions. Our work is far from finished…"
In other news, Minister Bail Organa has picked another special prosecutor, Tendau Bendon of Ithor, to investigate alleged illegal operations on Kamino. The planet responsible for producing one and seven million clone troopers for the war has been accused of profiteering, money laundering, and unethical business practices that some claim amounts to slavery. Kaminoan Prime Minister Lama Su has denied all wrongdoing.
"There is a distinction between our cloning projects and that of slavery," he said in a public address on his home planet. "We are confident the investigation will clear us of these false charges."
In just three months, the Organa Administration has already been eager to assert its promises for reform and progressive causes.
For more scan to page 3
The Clone Question: What comes after for millions of troopers? Pg 2
Twins! Everything you need to know about Luke and Leia Skywalker! Pg 4
From General to Dad: How does Anakin Skywalker keep up? Pg 6
Obi-Wan Kenobi and Satine Kryze spotted on a transport to Mandalore Pg 7
Scandal! Is Jar Jar Binks a secret Sith Lord? Pg 13
Three Months Later…
79s was buzzing with gossip when Rex walked through its doors. Not too crowded, only moderately full for a Thursday. Those who were present chatted away while sipping on their usual concoction of suds.
Bittersweet nostalgia hit him straight in the chestplate. It wasn't lost on Rex that this might be one of the last times members of the 501st gathered here like this. And with the accelerated aging…
He heaved out a quick sigh. The catch 22 of being a soldier. A profession that didn't do well with change and yet had to adapt to it constantly.
It was bound to happen sooner or later.
Rex thought of Hevy, Cutup, Droidbait, Tup, Lucky, Denal, Waxer, Colt, and so many others who'd lost their lives. They were the real heroes. The ones who'd never get to see the hard earned peace so narrowly won.
"Captain! Over here!"
Jesse waved him over. He sat at the end of the bar with Echo, Fives, and Hardcase or as Rex occasionally referred to 'the four knuckleheads'. Screwball troopers who'd been the most trouble at times, and also the absolute best.
"Evening boys."
"Sir."
They all raised their glasses in respect knowing their leader never demanded decorum in a relaxed setting.
"I'll order a round," Fives declared. "On me."
"Not necessary, but thank you."
"Hey, how many times do you get to sling one back with your commanding officer, amirite?"
"Fives, we've drank together many times. I've seen you chug Ridge's homemade Felucian jungle juice from your helmet."
Rex disliked being a damp rag on the fun, but this was another in a long list of examples of what happened when a war ended and over a million identical soldiers suddenly had nothing to do. Numerous accidents, drunken brawls, and delinquent behavior had been reported on various worlds still occupied by the Grand Army of the Republic, most of them former Separatist ones. It was a rare source of tension in the new government.
What do you do with a million men that would soon be out of a job?
Fives gave a cool shrug and a shifty grin as he called over the bartender.
"Gotta savor the moment, Cap."
"We were just having a debate," Jesse said, taking a sip of golden beer. He appeared a lot more relaxed, or at the very least not as drunk. "Is General Secura more likely to end up with General Fisto or Commander Bly?"
Oh, God. Not this again.
"See I think it's Master Fisto," Echo said, always one to use logic to come to conclusions. "The 327th and 414th worked a ton of joint missions. Not to mention they meditate together all the time."
"Echo's just hiding what he really thinks," Fives said with a friendly elbow to the ribs. His laugh was an octave higher than normal. "That no clone is ever gonna get married."
"That's not true. Look at Cut," Jesse pointed out. "He got married."
"Yeah but he deserted. There's a difference."
Rex bit back the urge to reprimand them for pointless gossip, but that would be like asking a Rancor not to eat.
"If you ask me, it's Bly," Hardcase chimed in with a lecherous grin. "I've seen the way he looks at her."
"Hardcase…"
"What? You're not going to tell me she isn't a knockout. Those hips. Any clone would be-"
A glare from Rex shut him right up. Thankfully, the arrival of a new round of shots dissipated the brief tension. Fives passed them around.
"Gentleman, let the good times roll."
The glasses clinked, and the Captain obliged them by powering back his shot with gusto. But he was just delaying the inevitable at this point. All this proved to be nothing more than a distraction. Funny how things worked really. Almost every man had been scarred by the war, and yet they couldn't imagine life without one. A warrior with no sword, an artist with no brush.
No clone wanted to be a slave, but they didn't want to be left out in the cold either. Many troopers dreamed of a day that a government or planet took their concerns seriously. Some believed that day would never come.
"Any word on today's vote, Captain?" Echo asked. It was a buzzkill compared to the original conversation but unavoidable.
"Yes, there's fresh news from the Senate and I think everyone needs to hear it."
"We're about to have a mutiny on our hands," Jesse grunted into his beer mug.
"Trust the Jedi, they got our backs," Echo said, sounding more optimistic than he otherwise felt.
"They're not the ones voting on this shit," Hardcase grunted. "I tell you what, if any Kaminoan lays a finger on me, they're getting one of these in return…except they won't be waking up."
He pointed to the scar on the right side of his temple, one that every clone sported. The Jedi had managed to quell the initial outrage over the inhibitor chips by removing them as quickly as possible. After the Kaminoans filed a lawsuit to overturn the Clone Citizenship Act, there had nearly been a full scale riot. Bail Organa wisely tapped into this furor and promised to appoint judges who would toss out the suit. Clone votes proved decisive in delivering Bail Organa his veto proof majority. But Rex was sure even the charisma of General Skywalker might not be enough to hold off a full scale rebellion.
"The situation is…complicated," he said, trying not to give too much away.
"That bad, eh?" Fives muttered.
"I'll let you judge that for yourself."
He saw the smiles on their collective faces vanish instantly. But being good men, they did not complain. Jesse stood up and delivered his trademark whistle, which was able to pierce the dull roar of the bar.
"Attention! Captain on deck!"
Like clockwork, every clone stood up in a chorus of plastoid boots. The sound of a spilled glass could be heard.
"As you were," Rex told them. "Gentlemen, there's no way to sugarcoat any of what I'm about to say. As soldiers of the GAR, you are among the best and bravest, and I have no doubt you will act accordingly."
Looking around, he did see a few members that belonged to adjacent battalions- the 41st, 104th, 87th- the 212th was off-world but he figured Cody had already delivered the news.
Feeling a little emotional himself, Rex took out his datapad.
"There was a vote today in the Senate regarding the reduction of the armed forces. I think we all knew this day was coming so I'll skip the preamble: the Army and Navy Reduction Act passed…"
An audible moan followed. Not the eye rolling that accompanied some bureaucratic announcement, but a real painstaking one. It cut at the heart of their very identity.
"...the number of standing troopers will be reduced from one and seven million to five hundred thousand with another one hundred fifty thousand in reserve. At least half of all tanks, spacecraft, fighters, and transport vehicles are to be deactivated and held in storage. Troopers may keep their sidearms and personal weapons, but must return all heavy equipment, detonators, and droid poppers. Personal armor may also be kept."
"There'd definitely be a mutiny if they took that away," Hardcase muttered.
Rex could hear his heart hammering in his ears as he prepped himself to read the next section.
"The Grand Army of the Republic is to be dissolved and reorganized into the Galactic Union Defense Force. Certain Legions will be merged or combined with others and placed under the control of civilian generals. The Jedi Order hereby relinquishes all military titles and will no longer take part in active command of troops."
That nearly whipped the room into an uproar. Jeers and shouts grew louder and the sound of a glass smashing was heard in a tucked away corner booth.
"Hey!" Jesse whistled again. "Captain's not finished."
Rex gave a nod of thanks to his longtime friend before continuing as the men settled into a disquiet hush. At least the hard part was out of the way.
"There was a second bill attached to the first passed on the final day of negotiations…the Veterans Act."
He cleared his throat before reading.
"...a special process will be used to select those who are to be discharged. Those selected will be released from their enlistment and their contracts that require them to serve in the army stemming from the original Military Creation Act declared by former Chancellor Palpatine (which is no longer binding). Those men, along with those who still serve, are now and forever citizens entitled to full equality under the law with the same rights and privileges as any other sentient. Furthermore, the claim to these men as property by the Kaminoan people is prohibited and any link between them has been completely severed."
The banging of chairs, tables, and stools signified their approval. But Rex wasn't done reading.
"Provision shall be made for every discharged trooper. This includes travel fares, employment assistance, and most importantly of all, a pension fund which ensures the basic level of necessities are met. Said fund will be paid out in biweekly stipends. Troopers who have served for longer than two years are already eligible to receive this money upon retirement. Men who are discharged by the Reduction Act are also eligible. Those who served for under two years and are selected to stay in service, will be eligible after five.
"In addition, any clone who desires to pursue higher education while in or after their service to the Union will have their tuition paid for at any public institution of their choosing. This scholarship is to be named after the late Jedi General Luke Ahch-To, the first man to champion clones' rights."
Jaws began to drop. Boiling anger reduced to incredulous disbelief. Even the bartenders had stopped to listen in.
"We the members of the Galactic Union and the Jedi Order extend a formal apology to every clone trooper and service member of the Grand Army of the Republic for the following injustices:
1. The underhanded, ethically dubious creation and organization of the GAR.
2. Mistreatment, abuse, and horrendous treatment under the Kaminoan people, ranking officers, government officials, and other military personnel.
3. A set upon condition which can only be unequivocally described as slavery, regardless of personal kindness from superiors.
4. This immoral practice being in violation of the Old Republic's own laws.
5. Casual disregard for human life by a government that claimed to value it.
6. Any personal injury inflicted, whether physical or psychological, and the death of thousands of troopers.
The Galactic Union seeks to redress these injustices and will work towards the discouragement and eradication of forced servitude in the future. Promotion of all activity towards this effort and the defense of civil liberties is paramount to a free society.
Passed by the Liberal Party and Senate Majority Leader Mon Mothma on the fifteenth rotation of the third month of the New Year, ACW."
When the clone troopers had been declared legal citizens of the Republic, there had been a roar of celebration. This time, there would be no cheering or drunken escapades.
Captain Rex remembered several things that night. Tears, affectionate words, bittersweet goodbyes, and a song, collectively performed by the entire battalion. A Mandalorian hymn taught to the officer corps by Jango Fett many moons ago. Though not known to be a musical people, the song's slow melody and low hum suited the occasion just right: 'Soul of my Sword.'
He sang it until the sun came up the next day.
Two months later
It was bizarre seeing a procession of Kaminoans be led away by the very beings they had created. Hunter took quiet satisfaction as the longnecks bowed their elongated, bulbous heads in humiliation. He'd never cared for them.
"Never thought I'd see the day," he muttered.
"Actually, the probability of indictment was raised by about ninety percent once the investigation was announced." Tech loved to blab and correct, but a fragment of astonishment slipped through as he adjusted his goggles.
"Check it out." Wrecker bumped Hunter in the chest, which for anyone not named Wrecker, could knock you sideways. "There's Lama Su."
The disgraced Prime Minister refused to look at or even acknowledge his former creations. He allowed himself to be led down the sterile, white hallways he once ruled, hands trapped in binders.
"I wonder where they're going."
"Jail, Wrecker," Crosshair said with a sniff. He was the only one among the four who did not appear excited by the arrest of their makers.
"Well, duh. I know that. But where?"
"Coruscant, most likely," Tech said, checking the holonet on his datapad. "Or one of the maximum security prisons in the Core Worlds. Possibly on Harloff Minor or Corulag."
Hunter didn't much care where the longnecks went as long as it was far away. They'd always been dull, pitiless creatures who valued life about as much as a Hutt gambling on a podrace. Nala Se wasn't exactly parent of the year, but she had a lot more empathy for the regs when hearing some of the details of the indictment…if half of them were true the Kaminoans deserved far worse than jail.
Speaking of which…
Out of the twenty four individuals arrested, Nala Se was the last to be led to the transport ship out in the rain. Flanked by two clones, Jedi Master Shaak Ti brought up the rear. Strangely enough, unlike the rest of her compatriots, Se was talking rather animatedly or at least animatedly for a Kaminoan.
"...I insist she be taken care of."
"I understand, doctor."
"She's an impressionable child. Prone to wandering off. You must find her immediately."
As the two females passed by, Nala Se caught Hunter's eye. Rather than arrogance or haughty superiority, he found those normally black, soulless eyes to contain a touch of care. Then she turned away as Shaak Ti took a brief pause to address them.
He stiffened out of respect.
"General."
"No need to call me General anymore," the Togruta said with a kind smile. "Just 'Master Jedi' will do."
"Yes, ma'am."
"I hope you boys are well."
"Never better Ge…Master Jedi," Hunter smoothly corrected himself.
"Are you enjoying your newfound freedom?"
Nobody said anything to that. No quip from Tech, loud comment from Wrecker, or even a one word response from Crosshair. They weren't quite familiar with the concept.
"It will take some getting used to, I imagine," Shaak Ti said, as though she read their thoughts. "Please don't hesitate to contact me or anyone in the Order if you need assistance."
"We usually figure things out one way or the other. Kind of how this squad operates." He gave a more respectful add on. "But we appreciate the help, Master Shaak Ti."
"Of course." The Togruta nodded and gestured for Nala Se to resume her walk of shame. Then she stopped and turned around.
"One more thing gentleman. If you see a blonde, twelve year old girl wandering around the facility, please alert me."
Wrecker made a dumbfounded grunting noise. Tech glanced at Hunter, but the latter shrugged, having no idea who the Jedi was referring to.
"Sure thing."
Soon, the hallways were empty again, only filled with the sound of humming lights and the occasional clack of boots from passing security clones.
"Now what?"
Wrecker's open question may have seemed idiotic on the surface. But Hunter knew what his longtime squadmate meant. Crosshair took the liberty of answering with a sneer.
"Nothing. That's it. The war is over, Wrecker. And that means we're screwed."
"I disagree," Tech dissented. "The galaxy is an infinitely better place without war."
"For all that intelligence, I'm surprised you missed the bigger picture," Crosshair told him coldly. "We're soldiers. Without war or a large military, there's nothing for us to do. We're out of a job."
"It's a big galaxy, Crosshair." Hunter had decided to chime in sensing a potential argument. "We have the skills to be valuable to someone."
"A gangster perhaps," the sniper said with a derisive snort. "Everything we know has to do with warfare. It's what our squad was meant to do. And a bunch of politicians took it away."
"Now you're just complaining. It's not as if that's all there is to us."
"What other purpose do we serve?
Hunter had a clever retort ready when his senses began tingling. Someone was behind them. Pivoting, he saw a tuft of yellow disappear behind the adjacent hallway to their left.
"Come on out kid. I know you're there."
Slowly but surely, a small human child with a bronze complexion, cropped blonde hair, and a curious pendant on her forehead, emerged. She hesitated in moving forward but looked at them with great awe.
"Don't be shy, we're not going to hurt you."
Hunter already felt intrigued by this kid. She was almost familiar in some way. Had he seen her around? Or was that a weird dream?
"You're…you're Clone Force 99."
"You…know who we are?"
"Yup." Her face brightened considerably. All traces of bashfulness vanished as she rattled off their names. "Hunter, Tech, Wrecker, and Crosshair."
Unused to positive attention, the Bad Batch only exchanged glances with each other before Hunter resumed the conversation.
"Someone's looking for you."
"I know." The blonde girl turned downcast. "But I didn't want to go with them."
Hunter peered down at her as the tiniest seed of affection planted its roots inside his heart.
"What's your name?"
"Omega."
Huh, that's interesting.
"Well Omega," he said as the smallest hint of a smile played around the edges of his mouth. "How about you hang out with us for a bit until we get you settled?"
The girl beamed a great smile in return.
"I'd love to!"
Dathomir…one month later
A steaming hiss and the sound of a depressurized cabin signaled the opening of a ship's hatch. Maul leapt down from the personal transport, a stolen item from a wealthy merchant on Kuat, and took in the planet around him. Months of laying low and scrounging a living had led to this very spot.
It was a harsh world for a harsh culture. This had been his home once. Now it lay forgotten in the outer reaches of the galaxy. Abandoned to those who might accidentally stumble across this lifeless wasteland. But Maul knew better. These red mists held secrets that few could comprehend. The barren, rocky cliffs told many tales. They were already whispering…
'You have done well…my son…'
"Mother?"
Pain enveloped Maul as he stared up into the orange-crimson sky above. He'd been ripped from her arms at such an age to render all memory obsolete. Mother Talzin had been a figure in dreams, fantasies, but it was because of her magic that he'd been resurrected in the first place. Now that was gone…to be replaced by madness…
"Am I losing my mind?"
The dark side was strong here. Even with the slaughter of the Nightsister clan and their leader, echoes and wisps of its influence remained potent. He breathed in the air and allowed his rage to stir one obsessive thought: revenge.
'And we shall have it.'
"Where are you?" he seethed, clenching yellow teeth tightly. "Why do ghosts continue to haunt me?"
'Oh, I am no ghost.'
A burst of green mist exited his chest and swirled around in elaborate shapes before coalescing into a familiar person.
Maul fell to his knees. "Mother."
'Yes. I have been with you the entire time, my son.'
"But how is that possible?"
Talzin wrapped her corporeal form around Maul like a mother tending to a child.
'A part of my spirit lives in you.'
Yellow-red eyes widened in realization. "The resurrection."
'Correct. That's why you were able to hear me while imprisoned. I am able to sustain my existence in the spirit realm, but as of now, I do not hold a body of my own.'
Maul bowed in submission.
"Oh great mother… I pledge my life and labor in returning you to your former glory. Where do we begin?"
Talzin gave a dark smile.
'Patience, child. There is ample time. Sidious is dead and the eyes of the Jedi are turned elsewhere. Let them have their victory; ]in it lies our own. For now, you only need to know a single name, the key to our return: Skywalker.'
Maul stood up, renewed and flowing with vigor. The hiss of a double sided crimson blade issued forth as Talzin looked on in admiration.
Soon, he would have his final revenge.
Yeah:) I fucking love happy Anakin and Padme with the twins3
A/N #1- I considered having this be the final chapter. BUT, there are two more loose ends to cover. The circle is not yet complete. So there will be about 5 more to go. After Parts 55 and 56, they will much shorter in length.
A/N #2- In canon, Padme's labor was painful for a number of reasons. I headcanon that if everything had gone to plan, the birth would have been difficult but not life threatening. I wanted to convey that here.
A/N #3- Anakin is slowly getting better. Very slowly. Having two children to protect is a further bulwark against the dark side. But he still has PTSD and unresolved toxic mindsets/beliefs. That's going to be addressed in the next two chapters.
A/N #4- Couldn't resist showing Omega and TBB coming together again. They're too precious not to.
A/N #5- I've mentioned this before, but yes there will be a sequel. And yes, Maul and Talzin will be a part of that. That's all I can say for now.
So this is likely it until after Christmas. I'll be writing here and there but I'll be on vacation for most of the holiday. So look to January for the next update. My love and thanks to you all for your continued support :)
Rock on!
~The Wasp