Chapter 5: Child of the Jedi

11 ABY

Scene 1: Informal Conversations Among Padawans

The sun cast a golden hue over the training grounds on Ossus, illuminating the verdant fields where the padawans had gathered. It was a rare moment of respite, allowing them to relax and engage in informal conversations away from the rigorous demands of their training. Thad Correlius stood amidst his peers, his demeanor markedly different from the anxious young man he had once been.

Sara Windu observed Thad from a distance, her heart swelling with pride. She marveled at how his confidence had soared since he invented LX-9. The once timid padawan now asserted himself among his peers with ease. His green lightsaber, now more than just a weapon but a symbol of his innovation, hung at his side. LX-9 had not only enhanced his abilities but also his self-assurance.

"Hey Thad," a fellow padawan called out, a playful grin on his face. "Show us that new move you've been working on."

Thad smirked, his confidence evident. "Alright, but don't blink."

As Thad demonstrated his skill, seamlessly integrating LX-9's guidance, Sara couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration. His assertiveness, his growing masculinity, and his ability to lead were becoming more apparent. She felt her feelings for him deepening, transitioning from platonic friendship to something more profound.

At eighteen, Sara had developed a level of maturity and insight that set her apart from her peers. She could easily see through the bravado and confidence Thad displayed—she knew about his anxiety, his dependency on LX-9, and his tendency to seek validation from others. Yet, rather than being deterred by these flaws, she found herself drawn to him even more.

Sara had always been perceptive, able to see beyond the surface of things. As she watched Thad, she saw not just the young man struggling to find his place among the Jedi, but the future leader he could become. Thad's resourcefulness, evidenced by his creation of LX-9, hinted at a mind that was always working, always searching for ways to improve, to adapt. LX-9 might be a crutch now, but to Sara, it was also a symbol of Thad's potential—a glimpse into the man who would one day stand confidently without any support, a warrior and a leader in his own right.

She admired his determination, the way he refused to let his fears and shortcomings define him. Thad was thoughtful, caring, and above all, resilient. These were the qualities that mattered to Sara, far more than any display of strength or skill. She could see the struggle within him, the battles he fought against his own insecurities, and it only deepened her respect and affection for him.

In Thad, Sara saw a partner—not just for missions or battles, but for life. She understood that love was not about finding someone without flaws, but about finding someone whose flaws you could accept, whose growth you could nurture, and whose journey you could share. Thad was that person for her. He might not have been the most powerful Jedi, but he was someone she believed in, someone she knew would one day grow into the greatness she already saw within him.

And so, as she watched him from afar, Sara felt her heart swell with a quiet certainty. She was falling in love with Thad—not just with who he was, but with who he would become. And she was ready to stand by him, every step of the way.

Scene 2: The Plains of Artorias

The plains of Artorias were bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, the landscape a patchwork of golden grasses and gentle hills. The Correlius and Windu families had gathered for dinner, their laughter and conversation filling the air. Thad and Sara had slipped away to their secret spot, a secluded area hidden among the tall grasses.

Sitting close together, they reminisced about their eight-year friendship, each memory strengthening the bond they shared. The bond was now evolving into something deeper and more profound.

"I can't believe how far we've come," Thad said, his voice filled with awe.

Sara nodded, her eyes reflecting the same sentiment. "You've grown so much, Thad. I'm so proud of you."

Thad smiled, his hand finding hers. "I couldn't have done it without you, Sara."

They sat in comfortable silence, the warmth of their closeness enveloping them. Slowly, their faces inched closer until their lips met in a tender kiss. It was a moment of realization for both of them; they were no longer just friends. They loved each other deeply and knew what they had to do next.

Scene 3: The Announcement

Returning to their families, Thad and Sara stood hand in hand, their hearts pounding with anticipation.

"Mom, Dad, we have an announcement to make," Thad began, his voice steady.

The parents exchanged curious glances but waited patiently.

Sara took a deep breath. "Thad and I want to get married, and we want your approval."

Sara's father, Dorian Windu, jokingly breathed a sigh of relief. "Whew! For a minute there, I thought you were about to say you were pregnant!"

Laughter erupted around the table, breaking the tension.

Xavier Correlius, speaking for both sets of parents, said, "Thad and Sara, both of you have displayed maturity and wisdom far beyond your years. I can speak for all of us and say we approve of your marriage."

Nods of agreement followed, and Thad and Sara smiled at each other, their hearts full.

"Now," Thad said, his eyes shining with determination, "we go back to Ossus to tell Luke."

Scene 4: Luke's Quarters on Ossus

In Luke Skywalker's quarters on Ossus, Thad and Sara stood before their mentor. Luke had his hand on his chin, pondering the announcement his two most dependable padawans had just made. Beside him, Mara Jade stood, grinning with elation.

"We've already told our parents," Thad said, his voice confident.

"They approve," Sara added, her gaze steady.

Luke pondered some more before speaking. "It's reassuring that your parents approve. I am open to the idea of formal marriage within the Order. This will be the first time in recorded history that it has been done. Your marriage will be quite historic!"

"Yes, we understand," Thad replied, his voice resolute.

Luke smiled, a twinkle in his eye. "Well, with that in mind, it looks like we have a wedding to plan!"

Mara's eyes sparkled as she added, "And you two will be setting a wonderful example for future generations of Jedi. This is a momentous occasion."

Scene 5: The Wedding in Artorias

The plains of Artorias were transformed into a breathtakingly beautiful venue for the wedding. Flowers in every color imaginable adorned the ceremony site, their fragrances mingling in the air. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of nearby trees, adding a soft, natural music to the setting.

Luke Skywalker, dressed in ceremonial robes, stood at the front, ready to officiate. The gathering included all the original trilogy protagonists—Han Solo, Leia Organa, Chewbacca, Lando Calrissian, C-3PO, R2-D2, and Ahsoka Tano—each smiling with pride and happiness. Notable allies such as Mon Mothma and Admiral Ackbar were also in attendance, their presence adding to the significance of the occasion.

As Sara walked down the aisle, her gown flowing gracefully behind her, Thad watched with awe. His heart swelled with love and admiration for the woman he was about to marry. When she reached him, they joined hands, their eyes locking in a moment of pure connection.

"Dearly beloved," Luke began, his voice carrying the weight of history, "we are gathered here today to witness the union of Thad Correlius and Sara Windu, two souls who have shown extraordinary bravery, wisdom, and love."

The ceremony was filled with heartfelt vows, exchanged promises, and a deep sense of unity. As Luke pronounced them husband and wife, a cheer erupted from the gathered friends and family. The newlyweds kissed, sealing their commitment in front of those they held dear.

The celebration continued with music, dancing, and a grand feast. Sara and Thad shared a dance under the starlit sky, the joy and love they felt for each other reflected in their eyes. The presence of their family and friends, along with the legendary figures of the Rebellion, made the event even more special. Mon Mothma and Admiral Ackbar shared stories of past battles, inspiring the younger generation with tales of courage and resilience.

Scene 6: The Birth of Diop

Nine months later, the Correlius home was abuzz with excitement. Thad paced outside his old bedroom, now converted into a cozy nursing area. Yvonne Correlius approached her son, her smile radiant.

"You can go see them now," she said softly.

Thad entered the room to find Sara lying in bed, nursing their newborn son, Diop. The sight took his breath away. The room was filled with a gentle light, casting a halo around Sara and the baby. Diop's tiny fingers grasped at Sara's, their bond already forming.

Tears welled up in Thad's eyes as he approached the bed. "He's beautiful," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion.

Sara looked up, her eyes shining with love. "Meet our son, Thad. Meet Diop."

Thad gently caressed Diop's head, feeling the warmth and softness of his skin. The room was filled with a profound sense of peace and love, a testament to the new life they had brought into the world.

Scene 7: Child of the Jedi

A few weeks later, a grand celebration was held in Artorias to honor the birth of Diop. The entire community gathered, their hearts filled with joy and anticipation. Luke Skywalker stood at the center of the celebration; his pride evident.

Holding Diop in his arms, Luke addressed the crowd. "Today we celebrate not just the birth of a child, but the birth of hope and the continuation of the Jedi legacy. As the first ever child born within the Order, Diop Correlius is the Child of the Jedi, and we are honored to welcome him into our world."

The crowd cheered, their voices rising in a chorus of celebration. Thad and Sara stood together, their hearts full as they watched Luke with their son. It was a moment of pure joy, a testament to their love and the bright future ahead.

However, amidst the celebration, a shadow loomed. Six-year-old Ben Solo watched the scene with a growing sense of jealousy. The words "Child of the Jedi" echoed in his mind, fueling a sense of resentment and insecurity. As the celebration continued, Ben's thoughts turned dark, and he began to conspire.