Part 4 - The Last Stand of the Jedi

[adea]

“When it is dark enough,
You can see the stars.”
Martin Luther King

Prologue

Darkness. The Galaxy crumbles to the ongoing battles between the Jedi and the Sith. Darth Krayt takes hold of all but several planets in the entire Galaxy, the core worlds, colonies and inner rim become the last refuge of the Republic. The Senate has been dissolved; millions have died, and seems there is no end in sight. Darth Krayt announces a new governing body, the great Sith Empire, headquartered on Mustafar, the place where the foundations of this Sith Empire began. Order 66 is resurrected, and countless Jedi fall to the deadly assassin, Darth Traya. Merely a year after Luke Skywalkers fall to the dark side, the Jedi are on their last legs, hit hard after the loss of their longest serving member, Arien Elensar. Many believe the Republic should surrender, that there is no possible way good and light can prevail. Yet Anakin Skywalker and his fellow Jedi persevere, believing that with one final stand, the Sith can be destroyed forever. Although it seems the force has truly abandoned hope, if they only looked to the sky, a small light lingers on, a beacon of hope.....

[adea]

Chapter 1 – Falling to the Shadow


‘I regret to inform you that the last mid rim planet, Naboo, was taken this morning by Krayt....Queen Kylantha surrendered without aggression, so there was minimal loss of life’ announced Shaak Ti.

There were now only five members of the Jedi Council left, Anakin, Obi Wan, Yoda, Neeja and Shaak. King Elladan had been granted a place on the council, most elves had retreated Iego, only a few remained behind to fight in the war. No replacements were appointed, for each day, Knights and Padawans were dying. Less than 200 Jedi were now active.

‘At least there was no loss of life, i suppose we should be grateful for that’ sighed Obi Wan, as the other masters respectively nodded.

‘Padmé has called an emergency meeting of all senators from the remaining free planets, we may be forced to take in refugees on Coruscant for their safety’ sounded Anakin.

‘There isn’t room here on Coruscant, we’re already overwhelmed with those who escaped their own planets before they fell to Krayt....I’m afraid they’ll have to stay where they are’ mumbled Shaak sadly.

Yoda sighed wearily, he’d certainly aged a lot in the past year, and the darkness was taking its toll on the diminutive Jedi Master.

‘Stay where they are, they must, keep fighting, our only option is’ he sighed, rubbing his chin.

‘Our resources are stretched thin as it is, we can’t hold Krayt’s forces off much longer....i don’t know what else we should do’ grieved Elladan.

‘We keep fighting’ announced Anakin, ‘till the last Jedi....I’d rather die than bow to that monster’.

Yoda smiled, gone was the reckless Anakin Skywalker who’d fell to the dark side. Before him, sat an accomplished Jedi Master, swearing his very existence to aid the Republic.

‘Very well, continue to fight, we will, council is adjourned’.



Padmé stood before the last senators of the Republic, to discuss the fate of the government. It broke her heart to think that the Republic could now be destroyed, but she could not, and would not, let Krayt win.

‘Senators, if i may have your attention’ she called, clearing her throat. The few senators fell quiet, ready to listen to their leader.

‘Chancellor Organa came to me this morning, with a proposition. We can no longer continue as a Galactic Republic, there are too few of us’ Padmé sounded, fighting back tears.

‘What does this mean?’ asked Senator Indor of Adari, ‘don’t tell me we’re giving up!’

‘No, no of course not’ snapped Bail.

‘No, we will never give up. But we have decided to reform our government for now, into the Galactic Free Alliances’ smiled Padmé. Her fellow senators shot questioning looks at each other, but decided, if their Chancellors felt it was best, then so be it.

‘And what changes will this cause?’ asked Mon Mothma politely.

‘Well, basically, it gives us a fresh start, and also straightens out economy issues, trade routes, the usual. All will be explained at the senate meeting tomorrow, we just thought we’d let you know today’ replied Bail warmly. The senators nodded their heads, and began applauding.

Padmé turned to Bail, a worried look crossing her face.
‘Do you think things will ever get better?’ she asked. Bail sighed, casting a dark look at the Coruscant cityscape.

‘I don’t know Padmé....only time will tell’.


‘Master Ben, the cloudberries are for eating, not playing!’ scolded 3PO. Padmé chuckled at the sight of her grandson squashing a berry into 3PO’s face as he bent down to wipe his face. She smiled sadly at the small one year old. He was blissfully unaware that just a few days ago, marked the death of his mother, and the fall of his father.

‘Bewies on wobot! Bewies on wobot!’ giggled Ben as 3PO stalked off to find a cloth.

‘Now Ben, you shouldn’t tease him like that’ Padmé said, suppressing a giggle, ‘come on, let’s get you cleaned up’. Padmé lifted Ben from his highchair, as Anakin entered the apartment.

‘Hello love, how was the meeting, what’s happening with Naboo?’ asked Padmé worriedly. She had been distraught when she learned of what had happened, but her parents had contacted and assured her they were perfectly alright.

‘Hello angel, not much, just the usual end of the Galaxy as we know it’ he replied dryly.

‘Hey little man’ he cooed, taking Ben from Padmé.

‘Gwanpa’ cried Ben excitedly, wrapping his chubby arms around Anakins neck. Anakin felt a small lump form in his throat. Ben was practically a carbon copy of Luke, the same bright blue eyes, the same tanned skin. His hair was blonde, though slightly darker than Luke’s had been. Anakin sat down on the couch, placing his grandson on his lap. Ben pulled at Anakins hair, then pointed at a small toy on the floor.

‘You want that Ben?’ asked Anakin warmly, bending to reach the toy. He stopped, mid movement, frowning.

‘What the....’ he whispered. The small toy replica of a speeder slowly floated a few inches from the ground. Anakin watched in amazement as the toy floated towards Ben’s outstretched hand. Ben grabbed it, giggling.

‘Well i certainly didn’t do that’ laughed Anakin, ruffling Ben’s hair.



Darth Traya had quickly become the most fearsome assassin in the Galaxy. Like his father in his days as Darth Vader, Traya had taken it upon himself to kill as many Jedi as possible. Traya blamed the Jedi for the death of his beloved wife, Arien, and their unborn child. The days were black for Traya, light no longer existed within him, unlike his father, there was no conflict, no possible redemption, nothing could save Traya now.

Traya sat alone in the Rilynndir Palace, on Valoor. He hated it here; it was Arien’s home planet. But for some reason, Lord Krayt insisted Traya reside here, and watch over the captive elves.
Traya relaxed, after a long day of Jedi hunting, ready to face his tormented sleep. He quickly fell into a deep sleep....

‘Luke, do think this war will ever end?’ asked Arien quietly, gazing at the stars above Coruscant. Luke stood behind Arien, wrapping his arms protectively around her waist.

‘It will, it may not seems like it right now....but it will’ he whispered, nuzzling her neck. Arien sighed.

‘Promise you’ll always come back....no matter what happens’ she said, turning to face her husband. Luke smiled, taking Arien’s face in his hands.

‘I promise you, i will ALWAYS come back....no matter what happens....no matter where i am...i will come back my love’ he smiled, kissing her gently. Arien nodded, tears silently rolling down her cheek....


‘Luke...Luke....come back Luke....your son....Ben....Luke’


Traya shot up, sweating profusely. His breathing became harsh as he remembered the dream. Faint glows, calling his name, beckoning him towards their light. A boy, a small boy....his son?

‘No...No, the child died with her...’ he muttered, shaking his head. Traya rolled over, resuming his sleep, a poor, lonely star desperately blinking for attention above him.

[adea]

Chapter 2 – Love in the Dark


Leia Skywalker was a remarkably strong woman. At only 24 years old, she’d been through just about everything, and was still going strong. It still hurt, losing her twin like that, and the death of one of her best friends left a permanent scar on her heart. After the funeral, she’d found comfort in the arms of someone she never thought she would.

‘Hey princess, you alright?’ asked Han worriedly. Leia smiled weakly.

‘Yeah....just...thinking’ she mumbled. Han watched her leave for the fresher. He really loved her, with all his heart, and hopefully his announcement today would be met with a yes. Leia returned to their bedroom, dressed in a large cream senate gown, ready for her meeting with the last leaders of the Republic. Han rubbed his chin nervously.

‘Umm...Leia?’ he called.

‘Yeah?’ asked Leia, clasping her hair into a simple bun. Han stood up, very aware that his legs had turned to jelly.

‘Umm...c..could you....turn around?’ he muttered, sweating profusely. Leia turned, raising an eyebrow.

‘Han what’s go...’ she stopped, her eyes widening.

‘Leia....you’ve been through so much.....things you shouldn’t have to....and....i want to be there always, making sure nothing bad happens to you ever again....i don’t want to keep this a secret anymore.....i want the world to know...i love you’ stammered Han, bending onto one knee.
Leia brought her hand to her mouth, tears rolling down her cheek.

‘Now, i don’t have much, and your dads probably gonna kill me for not asking him first...but....Leia Amidala Skywalker.....will you marry me?’ he asked, flashing a nervous grin. Leia stared numbly at the former smuggler, offering his life to her. He pulled out a small box, and inside, was silver ring, set into it, a small diamond, surrounded with sapphires.

‘Oh..Gods Han....yes....of course i...yes’ she breathed, crying heartily now. Han beamed, placing the ring on her finger.

‘I knew you would’ he laughed, picking her up and spinning her around.



Anakin sat in quiet meditation, letting the force wash over him. The voice he’d heard had certainly spooked him, and he was determined to find out what it meant. He closed his eyes, closing his mind off to everything around him, allowing the force to take over his mind....

‘Anakin....Alderaan....save....Alderaan’.

Anakin’s eyes snapped open.

‘What the....’ he breathed. He inhaled sharply, as a sense of foreboding washed over him. He stood up, and ran from the meditation room.

‘OBI WAN!’


‘Sith starships have entered Alderaan air space in the last hour, we’re deploying our fleets now’ announced Obi Wan. The rest of the masters nodded, and rose from their seats, ready to leave. Anakin exited the council room.

‘Dad, DAD!’ cried Leia, rushing to her father.

‘Leia, don’t worry, we’re leaving for Alderaan now’ reassured Anakin, ‘i want you to go home with your mother and the kids, if anything happens, get to a shelter’ he ordered. Leia nodded silently.

‘Everything will be fine, i promise you’ he whispered, kissing her forehead.

‘Dad?’ she called, as he began to walk away.

‘Yeah sweetie?’ he asked.

‘You better get home soon....i kinda need you to walk me down the aisle’ she smiled sheepishly. Anakin’s eyes widened.

‘Solo’ he growled, as Leia giggled.

‘Yeah, i love him’ she smiled. Anakin sighed wearily.

‘As long as your happy sweetie’ he laughed, ‘though he could have asked me first’. Leia laughed.

‘Get going, you gotta planet to save’.



Anakin and Obi Wan landed on Alderaan with just under half of what was left of the Republic army, and it wasn’t much. The elves were already there, surveying the situation.

‘Anakin, the Sith are about to land, if we can shoot them out of the air, it should scare them off’ called Elladan, after briefing his troop. Anakin nodded.

‘Alright, everyone get to a ship!’ he called.

‘Obi Wan, i need you to stay down here and attack any that do land’ Anakin said, turning to his brother.

‘Okay, may the force be with you’ he smiled.

‘And with you Obi Wan’ smiled Anakin, patting him on the back.



Padmé turned back to Leia, Bail and Mon Mothma. They sat nervously, awaiting the news from Alderaan.

‘Is there any way through negotiation we can reclaim the fallen planets?’ asked Mon Mothma. Padmé shook her head sadly.

‘The Sith do not deal in negotiations, all we can do is keep fighting, as much as i hate to admit it’.

‘Our forces are stretched thin, there’s no possible way we can reclaim the planets with our armies’ sighed Bail.

‘We must keep our faith in the Jedi....and in the force’ replied Padmé, ‘our time will come’.

‘And if we lose Alderaan?’ asked Bail worriedly.

‘The Sith may have vast armies, but their confidence is shaken by our rebellion....i doubt they will prevail’ sounded Leia. Padmé smiled warmly.

‘It brings warmth to my heart that you have such faith in our efforts, as long as we fight, the Sith will not win’. The other senators nodded their heads, understanding that although things looked bleak, they were still free.



‘Alright green squad, we shoot these ships down, then go home’ called Anakin via his comm. He swerved as the oncoming sith starfighters began attacking.

‘Leave the starfighters, it’s the ships we want!’ he shouted.

‘Anakin, there’s one down there getting ready to land’ called Han.

‘Okay Han, take red squad down and blast it, there’s only three, it won’t take long for us to get them’ ordered Anakin.



Obi Wan watched the Sith starship come into view.

‘Okay, we need to protect the capital, as soon as they leave the ship, shoot’ he called.


‘Hello Kenobi’ growled a voice behind him.

‘L...Luke’ breathed Obi Wan. Traya snarled.

‘Do not call me that...i am Darth Traya, son of the Sith’ he spat.

‘Traya...yes...fits you well....i believe it means betrayal’ snarled Obi Wan unsheathing his lightsaber. Above them, a loud crash signalled the destruction of the Sith starship.

‘You won’t win Traya, i still sense light in you...Luke is fighting’ called Obi Wan above the din. Traya growled, his eyes bleeding yellow.

‘DONT CALL ME THAT!’ he screamed, launching at Obi Wan.



‘Wooooooooooo, hey Skywalker, you see that!’ laughed Han, after destroying the Sith starship.

‘Yeah Han, i saw it’ chuckled Anakin, ‘looks like the others got the right idea, they’re retreating’.

‘Hey Anakin, did Leia...umm...talk to you?’ asked Han, as the descended back down to Alderaan.

‘Yeah....yeah she did....and i suppose if you make her happy....i can’t really do anything’ surrendered Anakin.

‘Don’t worry’ laughed Han, ‘i'll look after her’. Anakin rolled his eyes, laughing.

‘Just remember, hurt her, and ill run you through with my lightsaber’ chuckled Anakin. Han laughed nervously.



Obi Wan blocked Traya’s blow with ease. Traya’s anger made him sloppy.

‘You don’t want to kill me Luke, i know you don’t’ growled Obi Wan, swinging his saber around to meet Traya’s.

‘I said don’t call me that...Luke is dead’ snarled Traya, sweeping his saber towards Obi Wan’s neck.

‘He’s not dead....i can sense him’ shouted Obi Wan.

‘You sense nothing’ fumed Traya, readying to strike Obi Wan again.



Anakin landed not far from Traya and Obi Wan.

‘Hey Anakin, you alright?’ asked Han. Anakin rubbed his forehead.

‘He’s here’.



Anakin tore past the celebrating troops and into a small clearing.

‘Luke’ he gasped. Traya turned, standing over Obi Wan, whom he’d just removed a leg from.

‘What do you want Skywalker’ he spat, smirking at Obi Wan’s unconscious form.

‘Luke stop, please!’ begged Anakin, moving closer.

‘Using that name cost this Jedi his leg...and will cost him his life’ snarled Traya, ‘you would be wise not to use it’.

‘I won’t call you that Luke, it’s not who you are’ sighed Anakin, moving towards Traya.

‘Stay back!’ snapped Traya, turning his saber on Anakin. Anakin stopped, glancing at the stirring form of Obi Wan.

‘At least let me check Obi Wan’ Anakin reasoned. Traya laughed menacingly.

‘And why would i do that, when you’re both about to die’ he snarled. Traya launched himself towards Anakin, bringing his crimson blade down upon Anakin. Anakin quickly blocked him, then flipped back from Traya.

‘You can’t win Luke, your anger weakens you’ called Anakin, readying himself for another attack. Traya fumed, his eyes bleeding Sith yellow.

‘My anger makes me stronger....makes me powerful...YOU are the weak one to believe otherwise’ retorted Traya, jumping away from Anakin as he struck again. Traya roared with rage, grabbing Anakin in a force choke.

‘Luke...do...don’t...Luke’ gasped Anakin, struggling to breathe. Traya smirked, his yellow eyes boring into Anakin’s glacial blue orbs.

‘You lose Skywalker’ Traya spat, strengthening his grip.

‘Luke...don’t....Luke...’


Traya dropped Anakin, breathing hoarsely. That voice....the second time he’d heard it. Who was it?

‘Leave this planet Skywalker, before i change my mind’ snarled Traya. Before Anakin could reply, he was gone. Beside Anakin, Obi wan stirred.

‘Wha...’ Obi Wan groaned, attempting to sit up.

‘Come on, let’s go home’ mumbled Anakin. He couldn’t believe it. Luke had spared him. No Sith would spare an enemy. Anakin hoisted Obi Wan onto his shoulder, his mind reeling.



Several days after the battle of Alderaan, the Jedi and the newly created Galactic Free Alliances, took a day to enjoy and be happy, for today, Leia Amidala Skywalker, was marrying renegade pilot Han Solo.

‘You look beautiful sweetie’ gushed Padmé, adjusting Leia’s veil. Leia beamed happily.

‘I can’t believe we’re finally getting married’ she smiled, forcing to keep her tears back. Padmé smoothed her daughter’s veil, glowing with pride.

‘Leia? Ready to go?’ asked Anakin, poking his head through the door. Leia turned smiling.

‘Yeah Daddy, I’m ready’. Anakin’s eyes widened at the sight of his daughter.

‘Leia....you look...so beautiful’ he breathed, his eyes shining with tears. Leia blushed a little.



The wedding took place in the Jedi Temple gardens, at sunset. Even though at this time, the galaxy was in turmoil, nothing could spoil this moment. As Leia and Han said their vows, two noticeable gaps were left beside the pair, a place for Luke, and a place for Arien.

[adea]

Chapter 3 – Whispers in the Breeze


The wind blew softly over the beautiful marble palace in Iego. Queen Thelweniel of the Diathim stood before a large stone bust of the late king, her husband Thelwenae.

‘My Lord....the Galaxy is suffering...pain....sorrow....grief....can they prevail’ she whispered softly. The wind grew stronger.

‘I see....can we intervene....will the force allow it?’ she continued, her voice a mere echo.

The wind blew several fallen leaves into the palace, one in particular landed at the foot of the bust.

‘Can it be done? What effect will this have upon their fate?’ asked Thelweniel. The wind blew fiercely, and Thelweniel chuckled.

‘Alright, alright....I’ll do it, i know you always had a soft spot for....I’ll do it’ she mumbled sadly. The task ahead was a daunting one....but hopefully it would help the light win.
Thelweniel bowed, and returned to her room, proceeding to pack.

‘I hope you’re right my Lord....i hope this can be done....i hope this will save him’ whispered Thelweniel. She laughed as the wind blew strongly, causing her to stumble slightly.

‘I’m not questioning you, calm down’ she giggled. The wind blew softer. Thelweniel sighed contentedly, her gold hair fanning out behind her.

‘I know....i miss her too’.



‘So, he left....he spared me’ finished Anakin, after regaling the Jedi of his encounters on Alderaan.
Yoda stroked his chin, deep in thought.

‘Hmmm...most peculiar, this is....conflict i sense, in young Skywalker’ he mused. The remaining Jedi masters shot questioning looks at each other, not sure what to think.

‘You mean, there’s still light in him?’ asked Obi Wan.

‘Perhaps, time only, will tell’ replied Yoda. He rose from his seat, and shuffled towards the centre of the council room.

‘Perhaps, after all.....hope there is’.



Traya landed on the fiery lava planet of Mustafar, his mind still reeling after his encounter with Anakin. He entered the Sith base, slamming two Rakghoul into a wall in his anger. Not since his fall to the dark side, had Traya felt even the slightest conflict within him. And the voice...who was it. Someone was trying to stop him from falling further. He couldn’t allow it! The only person who could have helped him, was dead....and it was because of the Jedi.

Or was it? The Jedi loved her, that was no secret. She had served them for over 8000 years, she was there when the code was reformed, she was their when Master Yoda was just a Padawan. Why would they kill her?

Traya removed the thoughts from his head, and entered the control room on Mustafar. He grimaced, remembering his father’s stories of he and Obi Wan’s duel in this very same room.


‘Darth Traya, welcome’ snarled Krayt. He looked extremely angry.

‘Master’ bowed Traya, lowering his hood. Its remarkable, how much a person’s appearance can change, simply because they are evil. Gone were Luke’s bright, azure blue eyes, replaced by sickly yellow orbs, flecked with blood red. His hair seemed duller, flatter. His skin was paler; his face seemed to have sunk in. He wore a menacing scowl; it had been over a year since he had truly smiled.

‘My master, i apologize for the loss on Alderaan, but apparently we were given orders to retreat’ said Traya incredulously, rising to his feet. Krayt shook his head.

‘My very young apprentice, i gave the order to retreat’ snarled Krayt, ‘are you questioning my judgement?’ Traya swallowed. He knew better than to disagree with his master.

‘No master, i simply wondered why we retreated, when we could easily crush the Jedi with one swift blow’ mumbled Traya. Krayt studied his apprentice closely. He was hiding something.

‘’Tell me, Darth Traya, what is troubling you?’ he asked in mock sympathy, motioning to sit down. Traya tore his eyes from the fiery landscape through the window, the loud crashes and explosions perfectly mimicking his feelings, the conflict within him.

‘I saw my father’ he replied shiftily, awaiting the punishment he was so sure to receive. Krayt narrowed his eyes; the conflict within his young protégée angered him.

‘You couldn’t kill him....could you’ stated Krayt menacingly. Traya nodded, averting his eyes.

‘My apprentice, it is only natural, you couldn’t kill him, because you want answers, answers for why he killed your wife...’ Traya shuddered at the thought of his beloved. He fought back tears, as Krayt continued.

‘....i suggest you find him....bring him here, and uncover the truth’ growled Krayt, smirking. Traya turned to his master.

‘And the war?’ he asked. Krayt placed a pale hand on Traya’s shoulder.

‘Forget the war....bring me Skywalker’.



Anakin returned home after a lengthy discussion with the Jedi. Their army was almost gone, it was only a matter of time before the Sith struck one last time, killing them all. Anakin entered his apartment, collapsing onto the large sofa.

‘Ani? Is that you?’ asked Padmé, exiting her room with Ben in tow.

‘Yeah’ called Anakin, kicking off his boots. Padmé lowered herself into the chair beside him, after placing Ben on the floor to play.

‘Are you alright?’ she asked, nestling into her husband. Anakin nodded, wrapping an arm around her.

‘What do the council think....about Luke?’ asked Padmé, her voice shaking slightly at the mention of her son.

‘They think there’s still light in him’ replied Anakin. Padmé raised her head slowly.

‘I could have told them that’ she mumbled. Anakin chuckled sadly.

‘I miss him....so much’ whispered Padmé, smiling at Ben, ‘I still don’t get it....why he turned’.

Anakin sat up, and turned to his wife.

‘He was deceived, tricked...we may never fully understand....all i know is that something got to him when he attacked me....something stopped him. We can only hope that what stopped him, is enough to bring him back’, replied Anakin, taking his wife’s face in the palms of his hands. Padmé felt small tears roll down her cheek.

‘He will come back...right?’ she pleaded. Anakin kissed her softly, wiping the tears away from her face with his thumbs.

‘Yes...he will’.



Anakin slowly opened his eyes. He and Padmé had cried themselves to sleep. He blinked a few times, and smiled. Ben was still awake, playing with his favourite toy speeder. Anakin rose from his chair, gathering Padmé into his arms, and taking her to their bed.

He returned to Ben.

‘Come on little man, it’s getting late’ he smiled, gathering Ben up. Ben giggled and cooed.

‘Gwanpa!’ he called. Anakin looked down, and saw Ben pointing at something.

‘What is it?’ he asked gently. He saw that Ben was pointing to the sky.

‘Look...Gwanpa!’ cried Ben, fussing in Anakin’s arms.

‘What is it Ben?’ he asked, confused. He crossed the room to the veranda, nothing seemed out of place. Ben continued to point towards the sky.

‘Gwanpa....mommy’ Ben laughed, starting to giggle uncontrollably. Anakin inhaled sharply.

‘Mommy’s not here, come on, bed’ he mumbled, taking Ben to his room.

[adea]

Chapter 4 – A Quiet Visit


‘E’ tea!!’ called King Elladan. All around him, explosions racked the forests of Talasea. Thunderstorms ravaged the battle field, as the elves and the Sith met in battle.

‘Father, more starships have entered the atmosphere!’ called Caleb. Elladan rushed to his son, striking down his opponents with a gleaming sword.

Wave upon wave of Rakghoul and human alike, descended upon the Elven army.

‘DESIEL!’ ordered Elladan, as his fellow soldiers drew their bows to the sky.

‘NAUR IE’ I’ KIRYA’, called Caleb, pointing towards the oncoming ships.

‘NAUR!!’

The elves fired their bows, sending waves of Adegan arrows towards the ships. Though small, if enough of these Elven made arrows hit a ship, it could be brought down.

‘Caleb, take a troop down to the ridge, head them off!’ ordered Elladan, readying his troop to fire again.

Elladan was just about to fire, when something caught his attention. An eerie, haunting flute tune echoed in the distance. The thunderstorms stopped, the explosions faded. Elladan shuddered, and watched as the Sith army fled in terror. He turned, the sky dimmed, and a low rumble could be heard.

Elladan and his fellow elves fell to the floor, as a loud crack reverberate around them.

‘Father...What is it!’ called Caleb through the din. Elladan shuddered again, but not in fear.

Kalina ar' estela tuulo' gurtha.

Elladan inhaled sharply, as the echoed voice chanted.

Kalina ar' estela tuulo' gurtha.

‘Father....who is that?’ breathed Caleb. Elladan recognised the voice....it couldn’t be. A Nautolon Jedi who had been assisting the elves hurried towards Elladan, just as confused by the bodiless voice.

‘Lord Elladan, what is it saying?’ the Jedi asked fearfully. Elladan turned, his eyes gleaming.

‘Light and hope, from death’ he sounded, as the voice began to fade.

‘What does it mean?’ asked Caleb.

‘Someone is trying to help us’ smiled Elladan, as the Sith army fled back into space.



Lord Krayt stormed through his Mustafar base; fuming at the report he’d just been given.

He burst into a room full of representatives of the planets he’d conquered, and sent several of them crashing into the wall.

‘My Lord, we cannot explain what happened, our warriors fled, they said they felt a presence in such strength, that it could have destroyed them all’ sounded Orn Free Taa fearfully.

‘I don’t care what they felt...i want the elves destroyed’ thundered Krayt.

‘My Lord, their numbers are depleted, they will be destroyed’ replied Taa, shaking. Krayt let out and exasperated sigh, and turned to the vast lava before him.

‘We’ve held this off for too long’ he mumbled. Taa cautiously approached his lord.

‘I...i don’t...understand’ he stammered. Krayt turned back to the Twi’Lek; a menacing smiled crossing his face.

‘I feel, the time has come....for the final battle...one final attack....and we will destroy the Jedi forever’ snarled Krayt, ‘bring me a map’.



Traya slipped quietly from his quarters. His task...to capture his father, extract his information, and kill him. Can you kill your own father? A small voice in his mind asked. Traya shook his head irritably.

‘Of course i can’ he spat to himself, ‘he caused all of this’.

No, you did, said the voice mockingly.

Traya punched a wall, his eyes gleaming yellow.

Yes, you and your temper, your lust for power, you caused this all, sneered the voice.

‘SHUTUP!’ roared Traya, causing several Rakghouls around him to scurry away.

You see, they’re all afraid, they don’t respect you, they fear you, continued the voice.

Traya inwardly cursed himself for allowing this voice to form. Ever since his meeting with his father, the voice had questioned his every move, his every thought.

You were respected once, but you managed to screw that up royally, didn’t you.

‘I said shut up’ seethed Traya, heading towards his private hangar.

You were so blind. Thinking they didn’t care, when they did. They only wanted to protect you. Especially Arien, sneered the voice. Traya stopped dead, his heart hammering.

You know what your doing is wrong, you can still turn back....you can always turn back, said the voice, a little more softly. Traya shuddered; his breathing became shallow and uneven.

They can still be saved....you can still be saved, whispered the voice. Traya stood, unmoving, a glint of blue in his sparkling yellow eyes.


‘No!’ he snapped. The blue disappeared, along with the voice. He continued along his path, towards his ship, ready to search for his father.



A bright light flashed in the temple gardens. It flickered for a moment, then disappeared. In its place, stood a tall, hooded figure. The figure drifted silently to a large monument that stood proudly in the centre of the garden, surrounded by floaty white flowers. The figure drifted through the flowers towards the base of the monument, and lowered its hood.

Gleaming golden curls cascaded down the figures back. Skin shone moon bright, and calm grey eyes studied her surroundings.
Queen Thelweniel knelt before the monument, studying it intently. It was shaped like a large teardrop, set into a marble base. The carvings were in a strange language, a language she understood. Thelweniel’s eyes rested upon a particular carving. She smiled.

‘Eller ilyamenie estela, eller ilyamenie kalina, en a' i' giliath, o shor mi’ she read, smiling.

‘There is always hope, there is always light, look to the stars, you will see’ she translated, chuckling.

The wind around her blew softly, and Thelweniel felt a tear descend her cheek.

‘You cannot be at peace, you are still tied to the light within him’ she whispered. The flowers bowed in the breeze.

‘You hold the power of the Diathim, you could have saved yourself’ whispered Thelweniel, tears etching her beautiful face. The wind blew a little stronger.

‘I understand....you know what I’m going to do....my Lord has spoken with you?’ she asked. The wind blew softly again, the flowers bending low. Thelweniel nodded.

‘I must return to Iego, they cannot know of this’ she whispered, rising to her feet. The wind blew again, and the great Queen chuckled.

‘All in good time mi lady, all in good time’.



Anakin strolled quickly through the temple, towards the council room. He burst into the room, causing several of the masters to jump.

‘Anakin, what is it?’ asked Obi Wan concernedly. Anakin hurried over to the holo projector, and placed a disk into it. A large image of numbers and calculations formed, and Anakin stood back. Yoda rose from his seat, and carefully moved towards the projector, studying its contents.

‘His midi chlorian reading is off the chart, it’s almost as high as mine’ sounded Anakin incredulously.

‘Powerful, he will become...most peculiar, this is’ announced Yoda, staring intently at the image before him.

‘Theres more....he keeps pointing to the sky, and calling for his mother. He’s happy when he says it’, replied Anakin, ‘what does this mean?’

‘He could be sensing her force ghost’ mused Neeja, rubbing his bearded chin.

‘No, I’ve tried sensing her force ghost....it’s not there’ replied Anakin sadly, ‘she’s just....disappeared’.

‘Traya will be able to sense him soon, we must hide him’ sounded Obi Wan. Anakin turned to his former master.

‘Padmé won’t allow it, you can’t take him from us, and there isn’t anywhere to hide but here’ replied Anakin.

‘One place, there is’ sounded Yoda. The masters turned to the small green alien, waiting to hear his plan.

‘To Iego, he must go, with the elves’ he continued, ‘Queen Arethal, offered when he was born, she did’.

‘If he goes to Iego we may never see him again’ cried Anakin, ‘i can’t let you do that!’

‘Anakin, it’s for his own good. If Traya realises his son is still alive....he will take him’ reasoned Obi Wan, placing a hand on his brothers shoulder, ‘you know we’re right’. Anakin sighed, and bowed his head.

‘I know. But when this war is over, he’s coming back’ he added, looking intently at Yoda. Yoda nodded.

‘Return, he will. An important part in this, he has’.



Padmé Skywalker had had many sleepless nights since the war began, but this by far, was the most restless sleep so far. She’d cried herself to sleep when Anakin had told her Ben was leaving. She thought she’d have more time with him, but it turned out that Arethal was already on Coruscant, waiting. Ben was the closest thing Padmé had to Luke; it was like losing him all over again. Anakin had assured he Ben would be back once the war was over, but Padmé chose not to cling her hopes to this. The fact was, Padmé didn’t think the war would end on their terms. Each day she was losing faith, and was starting to realise that perhaps the Sith would triumph. What Anakin didn’t know, is that Padmé had struck a deal with the elves if the Sith did win. If, in that case, Padmé had arranged for her children to be transported to the safety of Iego. She knew Anakin wouldn’t like it, and she also knew Anakin wouldn’t leave without her. Her fate was sealed. If the Sith won, she and Anakin would die here on Coruscant. She would never bow to the sith.
Padmé groaned in her sleep, becoming even more restless. Her dream had not yet formed, but the feelings she had were strange. Feelings of hope, freedom and peace. Why was it so unsettling? Images formed in her mind.

Padmé stood on a large plain. Around her, blurs of people rushed about. She couldn’t quite make out what they were doing. The sky darkened, the shadows grew. She heard screams erupting around her. She couldn’t move, the darkness was suffocating.

She raised her head to the east, and frowned. A blue haze, moving towards them, hovering inches above the ground.

A bright light shone from above.
The haze grew closer and closer, almost touching her. Dark blurs raced past her, as the haze drew ever closer.

‘Padmé’.

‘Padmé’, the voice whispered. Padme groaned.

‘Padme!’ the voice called. She slowly opened her eyes, and saw Anakin’s face leaning over her.

‘What?’ she groaned, trying to focus her vision.

‘Padmé, you were having a dream, wake up’ called Anakin softly. Padmé slowly rose from her bed, squinting in the darkness.

‘Padmé, are you alright?’ asked Anakin nervously.

‘Yes....I’m fine’ she mumbled, rubbing her forehead. Anakin moved down the bed to where Padmé was sitting.

‘You were groaning and whimpering, i thought you were having a nightmare’ soothed Anakin, wrapping an arm around her waist. Padmé leaned her head against Anakin’s shoulder.

‘I was standing in a field, everything was a blur. The it went dark, and....there was..a blue mist....travelling towards me. Then a light shone, and the darkness disappeared.....and i felt....at peace’ she whispered. Anakin pulled her closer, kissing her temple.

‘What does this mean?’ she asked, turning to face her husband. Anakin sighed.

‘I don’t know angel....i don’t know anything anymore’.

[adea]

Chapter 5 – Fading Light


Several months had passed since Ben was taken to Iego, and Padmé had her dream. Most of the inner rim had fallen to the Sith, and the reformed Republic, now the Galactic Free Alliance were truly on their last legs.

After the battle of Chandrilla several weeks before, the Alliance’s army was almost gone. Padmé and Bail struggled to find a way to reclaim planets through negotiation, however Krayt had made it perfectly clear that there was no peaceful solution to the war. Krayt had retreated from Chandrilla, even though he could have easily defeated the Jedi. It confused Padmé. He could have defeated them, she knew it. Yet why didn’t he?

Anakin continued to battle on. He refused to accept the end was nigh, and led his fellow Jedi into battled proudly, ready to give his last breath for freedom.

Yet to most, they believed the end would soon come, and not in their favour.



Thousands of Diathim lined the streets of Iego, as their Lady, Queen Thelweniel, glided towards the great temple of Kallina. A momentous event was about to take place, something they truly believed could save the war torn galaxy. All was silent, save for a few whispers, and the gentle breeze rustling the emerald green trees. Behind her, Queen Arethal of the High Elves, glided behind her, carrying a small child. The child was fascinated by his surroundings. The planet sparkled, even at night. Everything and everyone was at peace. Above them, great Malda birds swept through the sky, gazing down upon the gathering below. Six Seere’roch, beautiful, blinding white creatures, similar to a horse, pulled a large casket. Arethal turned her head slightly, making sure the casket was following. Thelweniel stopped before the temple, beneath a large arch, and signalled the casket to pull up. The Diathim and elves that watched began to leave....the ceremony was about to begin.



Anakin and Obi Wan sat together in a large meditation room. For now, the attacks had abated, but it was only a matter of time before the Sith delivered a fatal blow.

‘Master Yoda thinks....he thinks it may come down to one final battle’ started Obi Wan, turning to face his brother. Anakin tore his eyes from the Coruscanti sunset.

‘So do i’ he replied quietly, bowing his head.

‘Arien would’ve loved this....she always said the fate of the galaxy would be decided in one final battle’ chuckled Obi Wan. Anakin smiled, as Obi Wan’s memories were projected into his mind.

‘Master, the Januul Clan is gaining on us’ called Anakin, as he ducked an arrow.

‘Yes i can very well see that’ spat Obi Wan sarcastically. Anakin and Obi Wan came to a large river, quickly crossing it.

‘We can’t continue running, they’ll catch us....and there are too many to stand and fight’ grimaced Obi Wan. They withdrew their lightsabers, as the Januul Clan rose over the hill.

‘I guess this is it’ winced Anakin, readying to deflect any arrows. They jumped, as several cries were heard from the Januul. Above them, a ship crashed into the river, shooting down as many Januul as they could. Anakin and Obi Wan watched as an elf and a Twi’Lek flipped out of the burning ship, joining them.

‘I think that’s the fifth time I’ve saved you all in all’ smirked the Elf, Arien Elensar, ‘come on Aayla, these boys clearly can’t handle themselves’. Aayla laughed.

‘Yes Master, leave it to the girls to clean up after them’. Anakin scowled.

‘Well I’d like to see you take on all of them’ he pointed, as more Januul headed towards them. The Januul began to cross the river.

‘Stand back’ ordered Arien. Anakin watched as her normally bright green eyes turned black.

‘Nin o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer,
Rimmo nin Bruinen, dan in Ulair!
Nin o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer,
Rimmo nin Bruinen, dan in Ulair!’

She chanted, her voice a menacing echo. The ground began to rumble, then a great wave swept through the river, taking the Januul to their doom.

Arien slumped slightly as her eyes returned to green.

She turned, smiling, ‘Six’ she laughed brightly, before motioning her Padawan Aayla to follow her.

‘She really grinds on me sometimes’ spat Obi Wan, causing Anakin to chuckle.


‘I remember that mission, she never let us live that down’ chuckled Anakin.

‘She was exceptionally skilled....although id never admit that in front of her’ laughed Obi Wan. The pair fell silent, as another, more emotional memory crossed into their minds.


The temple gardens stood quiet and still, as the casket slowed to a halt. Anakin stood behind the casket, ready to speak to all those here to mourn the death of Arien Elensar.

‘I never actually thought I’d be doing this. I mean, we all thought Arien would outlive us all....we all expected her too. She was a powerful Jedi. She served the order, the republic, for 8000 years. She always thought of others, never herself, yet she was never truly happy. When...when she married...Luke’, Anakin paused, the loss of his son painful to remember.
‘...she was complete...she loved him...and i know that she would....she would have been a great mom’, Anakin’s voice cracked, and several tears escaped him.
‘....she was a good person, a trusted ally....but most of all...the greatest friend I’ve ever known. It was always the three if us, me, Obi Wan, and Arien. And i always thought it would be. I’m not going to say goodbye...I’ll see her again’, Anakin raised his head, and found the star he was looking for.
‘....look to the stars....you’ll see’.


Anakin squeezed his eyes as tears threatened to overcome him. And they didn’t. He stared, open mouthed at the feeling that had just tore through him, and from the looks of Obi Wan, he’d felt the same.

‘Did you feel that?’ asked Anakin. Obi Wan nodded dumbly.



Thelweniel stood before the casket, placing her hands inside. She closed her eyes, er breathing becoming deep and focused. She waited, until everything was in synch. The beating of her heart, the rate of her breath, the call of the Malda bird, the strength of the breeze, the rustle of the trees.

Ben began to fuss.

‘Nessa er, sal’. Please be still young one, everything is turning’ soothed Arethal, stroking his dark blonde hair. Ben fell silent, as the wind, the birds...everything stopped.

Thelweniel opened her eyes, which were a deep, coal black.


‘Du tylesta’er iar, e' os gurtha lye wanwa estela,
Os mry, vaeraer, ar' kolol,
Os mysyrn, vaeraelaer e' i' umbar en' i' kalazia,
I’ kalina air quella...’ her voice was deep, shaking the walls and scattering the creatures around her.

‘....Am’ estela jholaes no’, kalina erin yassene,
Nessa baedai, mela, air e' val,
Tylos yassene, i' kalina air vaelalol,
Rato ro shor melaer....’ Ben began to smile, as the wind began blowing gently again.

‘.....Vaeres, edhel wen, kallina en' i' elen,
Vaeres a' lye kalazia, eilaern,
Shol thys lye estela, shalor lye gorga,
Mali i' nessa baedai yassene....’, the low rumble grew louder, and all lights went out.

‘....I’ tar deno' i' ra heru en' i' thysi,
Ar’ ho arwen, sholaes en' seere,
Shol thys i' wen vaeraer fea,
N'alaquel a' lye peil anar....’ a light began to shimmer, coming from the casket.

‘.....Ed’ i' kalina en' i' elen,
Ar’ i' lina en' i' sul,
Alu en' i' hisie,
Poldora en' i' orod....’ the rumble grew louder, closer.

‘....Shalor i' naur, Shalor i' val,
I’ meraesol ar' mysyrn ar' kos....’, the light grew brighter, almost blinding.

‘.....Shol thys i' kallina, ra aran en' iant,
Vaeres lye estela ar' seere,
Ed’ celeb ithil ar' mal elen,
Shol lye arwen n’alaquel, vaerysi lye seere!!!’

The last flashed with a lour crack, and was gone. Thelweniel fell to the ground, breathing harshly. Arethal ran forward to aid her.

‘Mi Lady, are you alright?’ she asked, helping the Diathim to her feet.

‘Yes, young Arethal....it has worked’ she smiled. Arethal turned and gasped, tears streaming down her face. Ben grinned widely.

‘Mommy!’.



Yoda sat alone in his meditation room, reaching out into the force. In the distance a light glimmered...but that light was slowly fading away. War was coming, the last war....

‘Meet them in battle, we will’



Traya sat in quiet contemplation, as his ship sped through hyperspace. He was torn. Torn between the light voice within him, and darkness threatening to consume him completely. Why now, after a year in the dark, was the light finally resurfacing.

'Because you know in your heart, you were wrong’.

Traya jumped at the sound of the voice and turned to its source. The image of a man, who looked about sixty, gazed upon him. His hair was long, and tied back. He wore long, Jedi robes, and had a look of upmost serenity upon him.

‘Y...your...Master Jinn’ stammered Traya, remembering the image of the deceased master his father had shown him.

‘Yes, i am’ chuckled Qui Gon, settling himself next to Traya.

‘Why are you here’ spat Traya, turning away from him. Qui Gon sighed.

‘You seem to have lost your way young one...’ mused Qui Gon, stroking his ghostly beard. Traya remained silent, and continued to stare out of the window, into space.

‘I haven’t lost my way....i know who i am, and i know what i am’ snarled Traya, after a moment’s pause. Qui Gon studied the young Jedi carefully.

‘I knew your wife....she was a good friend, a good person. She always fought against that no attachment’s code. She thought it was unnecessary, that it would turn the Jedi into emotionless warriors, incapable of compassion. From what i see before me, she was right’ sighed Qui Gon.

‘I loved Arien, with all of my heart and soul....don’t you dare insinuate otherwise’ thundered Traya, taking a step towards the force ghost. Qui Gon smiled slightly.

‘You think anger makes you stronger...your wrong...love does’ smiled Qui Gon, and with that, he disappeared. Traya closed his eyes, pain tearing through his soul. He pounded the control panel with his fist, cursing himself. Why? Why did it have to be this way?



Krayt poured over the vast map of the Galaxy before him. In the force, he felt much confusion and pain emanating from his apprentice.

‘You’re slipping, my young apprentice. No matter. When the Jedi die, so shall you’ snarled Krayt. Former Senator Orn Free Taa ambled towards his ruler, staring intently at the map.

‘My Lord, have you decided?’ he asked. Krayt turned to the cerulean blue Twi’Lek, smirking.

‘Indeed i have, the Inner Rim is now under our control, this is the planet’ he began, indicating to a large yellow/green planet. Taa moved forward to read the description.

‘Mindor, locate in the Inner Rim....covered in large grassy plains.....sparsely inhabited....a good choice my Lord’ gushed Taa. Krayt rolled his eyes.

‘Of course it’s a good choice....now leave me....i have much planning to do’ snapped Krayt, waving Taa away.

[adea]

Chapter 6 – Memories


Traya was still reeling from his encounter with Qui Gon. How dare he even think he never loved her. She was his light, his life, the only one who could subdue the darkness within him. He’d loved her, ever since he’d first laid eyes on her, all those years ago, in a small kitchen on Lorora.

‘Your an elf, aren’t you?’ said Luke quietly. Anakin smiled, Luke rarely spoke in front of strangers, he definitely was the shyer of the two.

‘I am’, smiled Arien warmly, ‘how did you know?’

‘Mommy says the elves are the most beautiful people in the Galaxy’ replied Luke quietly, blushing slightly. Anakin looked at Padme grinning. Arien blinked, surprised by the young boy’s admission.

‘Thank you Luke, that’s a lovely thing to say’ she smiled. Luke sheepishly smiled back.


Yes. He knew then, that someday, they would be married. He loved everything about her. The way her skin shone moon bright, even in the darkest of places. The way her silky, dark curls cascaded down her back, framing her face perfectly. The way her smile lit up all those around her. Oh how he loved her. She was perfect, and she was his.


‘Luke, what do you think about having children, i mean, once this war is over?’ asked Arien. Luke nuzzled her neck, breathing in her alluring scent.

‘Nothing would make me happier’ he smiled, raising his eyes to meet hers.

‘Really? You’d be alright with a screaming baby, needing are constant attention and love’ smirked Arien, brushing her hand through Luke’s hair.

‘Well...no’ sighed Luke. Arien frowned, looking thoroughly disappointed.

‘I’d only be alright with lots of screaming babies, needing our constant attention and love’ he smirked. Arien raised an eyebrow.

‘And how many are you planning on wanting?’ she asked, smirking.

‘As many as we can’ smiled Luke, cupping her face with his hand. Arien giggled, leaning in to kiss him.

Traya felt a tear slip down his cheek.

‘We were supposed to be together, we were supposed to have a family...a child’ he breathed, ‘oh gods...my child’. Traya broke down, finally, after over a year, he was truly grieving.



Anakin smiled at the hologram he held. It was of he and Luke on their first Jedi mission on Saleucami. It was quite an important mission. Luke had just turned 6, and they had travelled to follow up reports of several stranded Jedi, who were still in hiding from the empire. That day they’d found Shaak Ti and several padawans she’d been training. Anakin smiled warmly, when he thought of the adventures he’d embarked upon with his son.

‘Dad...hey dad!’ shouted Luke, jumping onto his father. ‘Wake up!’ Anakin stirred.

‘S’matter’ he groaned, trying to swat away the pest.

‘Dad, we’re out of hyperspace’ giggled Luke, jumping down from his father. Anakin groaned, he’d been having a rather pleasant dream.

‘Okay....okay, I’m up’ he mumbled, stretching and yawning. He rose from his seat, and checked the control panel.

‘Luke’ he called, he turned, frowning.

‘What?’ asked Luke, fighting a smile.

‘We’re nowhere near out of hyperspace....why d’ya have to wake me up’ complained Anakin. Luke giggled, and smiled sweetly.

‘You’ve been asleep this whole trip....i kinda missed ya’ he grinned. Anakin felt his heart swell. How could he ever have turned to the dark side?


Anakin smiled, and felt a small tear roll down his cheek. He and Luke were best friends. He’d always hoped that Luke could talk to him about anything, that Luke trusted him enough to come to him for advice, share his problems, and his dreams. When Anakin was his age, he had no one. Sure, he could have talked to Obi Wan, but back then, the code wouldn’t have allowed it. Anakin rose from his seat, and joined his wife on the veranda. He wrapped his arms around her waist, as she leaned back, resting her head on his shoulder.

‘You alright? Asked Padmé, stroking his hands.

‘Yeah...just thinking’ replied Anakin, kissing her temple. Padmé turned to face him, her eyes shining with tears.

‘Things will get better, won’t they?’ she asked quietly. Anakin sighed, and kissed her forehead.

‘I don’t know angel....i hope. Someday, peace will come. But for now, as long as i have your love, I’ll be fine’ he smiled. Padmé kissed him softly.

‘You’ll always have my love Ani, always’.



Padmé sighed. She’d been trying to get to sleep for hours, yet sleep would not come. She slowly raised herself out of bed careful not to wake Anakin. She crossed her room, and stood on the balcony, giving a spectacular view of Coruscant. In the distance, the sun was beginning to rise; the sky slowly turned fiery orange. The sky reminded her of Mustafar....and the day Luke and Leia were born.

‘Don't give up, Padmé’ called a distant voice. Padmé slowly opened her eyes, just able to make out Obi Wan through her tears. She winced from the pain; a cry reverberated around the room.

‘It's a boy’ announced the medi droid. Padmé turned her head, smiling faintly.

‘Luke...’ she breathed, struggling to touch the baby on the forehead.

Padmé cried out in pain as another contraction hit her.

‘...and a girl’ sounded the droid.

‘Leia’ gasped Padmé, smiling. She felt dizzy and tired, the sounds around her growing distant.

‘You have twins, Padmé....they need you . . . hang on’ echoed Obi Wan’s voice.

‘I....I can't....’ she whispered, everything was growing dark. She winced again, clutching Anakin’s Japor snippet.

‘Save your energy’ sounded Obi Wan. Arien stepped forward, and took Padmé’s hand.
‘She’s fading’ whispered Arien, tears beginning to fall.

‘Obi-Wan....there.....is good in him. I know there is....still.....’ gasped Padmé. She couldn’t see, everything was going dark.

She felt peace. Peace and serenity. So this is what dying feels like, she thought. In the distance, she could hear the faint cry of a child.

You’re going to leave them, orphans? Asked a small voice in her head. Padmé shuddered. She couldn’t do it. She couldn’t leave her babies.

No, she sounded defiantly. The crying grew louder, then it was joined by other voices.

I won’t leave them...i wont!

Padmé slowly opened her eyes. She was lying comfortably in a warm bed. She slowly turned her head, and smiled.

A small baby, with tufts of blonde hair, stared back at her with round blue eyes. Next to him, lay a sleeping baby, with tufts of chocolate brown hair. The blonde baby began to babble and coo. Padmé smiled, how could she ever leave them.


Padmé inhaled deeply, fighting back tears. Her baby. Her Luke, was out there somewhere, and she could feel his pain.



Leia lay awake, listening to the gentle snoring of her husband. She smiled lightly, and watched as the sun slowly rose. On the bedside table, she caught sight of the holo picture taken many years ago, on a family holiday. She laughed quietly at the sight.

Anakin lay, half buried in the sand, surrounded by herself, Luke, her mother, Obi Wan and Dormé. She had to stop herself from laughing out loud at the sight of Obi Wan covered in sunburn, and the fact that Luke stood behind him, ready to dump a bucket full of water over his head. She sighed as she remembered her brother. Their bond was broken the moment he fell to the dark side, though she could still sense him. He was in pain. Terrible pain. It killed her to feel him like this, but since she’d felt it every day for the past year, she’d learned to live with it.


‘Hey Leia?’ whispered Luke, turning on his side. Leia opened her eyes, and faced her brother.

‘What?’ she whispered back.

‘What d’ya think of dad....pretty intense huh?’ he smiled. Leia rolled her eyes.

‘He seems....sad’ she answered.

‘Yeah...ha i caught him staring at mom today’ announced Luke triumphantly.

‘How can you tell if he’s staring, he wears a mask stupid!’ snapped Leia. Luke looked at her, puzzled.

‘I can just tell. I can feel it. He really loves her.....and he loves us’ replied Luke, sitting up.

‘I know he loves us’ joined Leia, sitting up too, ‘but you can’t catch him staring when you can’t even see his eyes’ giggled Leia. Luke chuckled, and moved closer to his sister.

‘Me and you....we’ll help him and mom, she makes him happy, and the same with him’ smiled Luke.

‘Yeah...i mean, we do make a pretty good team’ grinned Leia. Luke laughed out loud.

‘Luke...Leia...sleep!’ called Padmé. The twins shook with silent laughter, and lay back down.

‘Hey Leia?’ whispered Luke.

‘What?’ sighed Leia exasperatedly.

‘I love ya’ he smiled. Leia rolled her eyes, smiling.

‘Love ya too’.


Leia shook her head, laughing slightly.

‘Boy, when you get home, you’re in for a major ass kicking from me’ she giggled. She looked out into the fresh daylight outside.

‘I know you’ll come home....i know it’.



King Elladan Elensar was a strong, proud man. For almost 70 000 years he’d ruled over the High Elves of Valoor, fought in countless battles, and served the Jedi. Nothing, in his hundreds of thousands of years in this galaxy, had he questioned the will of the force, save for the day his beloved daughter was cruelly taken from him.

He’d begged her not to fall in love with Luke. He told her it would end in pain. And he was right. He didn’t hate Luke; he didn’t blame him for her death. He blamed Krayt. He blamed him for all the pain and suffering his daughter endured, until finally, she could not take it any longer. He would never have guessed that his strong, independent daughter, born under the light of Tinta Elen, Valoor’s most beloved star, would die of a broken heart.


Elladan raced up the stones steps of his palace, shoving aside those who stood in his way. He reached the main hall.

‘Hildar, where is she, where is Arethal!’ he cried. The elf chuckled.

‘Calm down my lord, she and the baby are fine, they’re through here’.

‘I can’t believe i missed it! I didn’t miss Caleb’s birth, or Nariel’s!’ groaned Elladan, following the elf through a pair of large wooden doors. He stopped, staring in wonder at the sight before him. He approached the bed cautiously, his eyes sparkling.

‘How are you my love’ he smiled, kissing his wife on the head.

‘Tired...very tired’ sighed Arethal, smiling. Elladan chuckled, and his eyes fell upon the small bundle in his wife’s arms.

‘This is our daughter’ smiled Arethal, stroking the baby’s cheek. Elladan felt tears well in his eyes.

‘Have you named her?’ he asked, bending to kiss the child on the forehead.

‘Arien...i like Arien for her first name’ smiled Arethal. Elladan smiled.

‘It's perfect....and how about....Elendir, for her second name?’

‘Arien Elendir Elensar.....it’s wonderful’ gushed Arethal.

‘She’s beautiful....truly beautiful’ whispered Elladan, continuing to stare at her in wonder.

‘We still need her Elven name’ laughed Arethal, watching her husband, who was enthralled with this small child.

‘What?...oh...yes of course’ replied Elladan, shaking his head a little. He studied the child for a moment, and watched as a pair of jewel bright, emerald green eyes sparkled up at her.

‘Arwen en’ i’ elen....lady of the stars....’

Elladan sighed sadly. He should have known....giving her such a name. All stars burn out...as had she.

[adea]

Chapter 7 – Proposal


Darth Krayt smiled sinisterly, as he looked over his final plans.

‘My Lord, we are all set, the troops are ready and waiting’ announced Orn Free Taa. Krayt nodded.

‘We will give them one last chance to surrender, if they refuse, they will all die’ replied Krayt, ‘fetch me a comm. link, Chancellor Amidala will bow to me’.



Padmé sat at her office desk, pouring through reports of updates on the situation of the fallen planets.

‘That’s odd’ she frowned, studying the data pad in front of her.

‘What’s odd?’ called Leia, entering the office and lowering herself into a chair.

‘These reports say that the Sith armies have been retreating from the fallen planets’ replied Padmé, continuing to study the data pads. Leia frowned.

‘Why would they retreat...they’re not giving up....are they?’ asked Leia.

‘No....no....’ mumbled Padmé. She jumped slightly, as her comm. link beeped.



Traya landed on the distant outer rim planet of Berri. It was a hot, smog-shrouded planet, with little natural food resources, and therefore little civilized inhabitants. He typed in co-ordinates on his comm. link, and waited for an answer.

Anakin had just entered his apartment, when he heard the comm. link beep. He crossed the room, and quickly answered.

‘Skywalker’ snarled Traya, his yellow eyes boring into Anakin’s blue orbs.

‘Luke’ gasped Anakin. Traya felt his anger rise at the use of his old name, but decided to let it slide, there were more important things.

‘Skywalker...i...need to speak with you....face to face...’ he told Anakin. Anakin raised an eyebrow.

‘Where?’ he asked, trying to sense if something was wrong.

‘Berri....in the outer rim....you’ll tell no one’ snapped Traya. Anakin sighed.

‘And why should i trust you, how do i know you won’t have a troop of Sith waiting to kill me?’

‘I...I’ve been...feeling things....I’m confused....i...i just need to talk’ replied Traya. This wasn’t exactly a lie....but it wasn’t exactly the truth either. Anakin frowned slightly, but nodded. He sensed betrayal in Luke....but he was his son, Anakin couldn’t turn his back on his own son.

‘Very well, i leave right away’ informed Anakin.

‘Be sure that you do’.



‘Chancellor Amidala, looking beautiful as ever’ smirked Krayt. Padmé scowled at the man before her.

‘Darth Krayt’ nodded Padmé. Leia sat out of view, a look of sheer fury upon her beautiful face.

‘I am here to strike a deal...a final deal’ announced Krayt slyly.

‘I don’t want to hear about any deals, we will never bow to a Sith’ spat Padmé, losing her senatorial demeanour. Krayt looked a little shocked.

‘Chancellor, you now have the chance to save your beloved Galaxy. Join my empire, and your friends, family, and loyal subjects will be saved’ answered Krayt smoothly. Padmé frowned. By agreeing, she would be handing over her peoples freedom to a Sith lord. By disagreeing, she would be forfeiting their lives.

‘I’m afraid i have to decline your offer....if we are to die....we will die free’. And with that Padmé ended the comm. link.

‘I’m so proud of you mom’ cried Leia, rushing to embrace her mother. Padmé took deep shuddering breaths, trying to steady herself.

‘He...he said...the final deal....what’s he planning?’ gasped Padmé, ‘Leia...gods Leia tell me I’ve done the right thing!’ Leia held her mother as she began to cry.

‘Yes, you did....i promise you’.



Anakin arrived on the foggy planet of Berri. He’d been here once before, on a mission with Obi Wan, Arien and Aayla. He studied his surroundings, reaching out in the force to find Luke.
He didn’t need to reach far.

Darkness.


Anakin groaned. He felt very dizzy, and noticed he had a throbbing pain on the back of his head. He wrinkled his nose as he smelt sulphur, and he noticed the air around him was very, very hot. He slowly rose from his bed, and gazed out of a small window.

Two figures robed in black were conversing. Anakin watched as one of the figures climbed aboard a vast starship, whilst the other retreated into the building. Anakin watched in horror, as thousands of fleets took to the air.

[adea]

Chapter 8 – Fires and Foes


Padmé stood before her fellow senators, ready to tell them of Krayt’s proposal.

‘Senators, please, quieten down’ called Bail over the chatter and din. The senators fell silent, and Padmé stepped up to address them.

‘Senators of the Galactic Free Alliance. This morning, Sith Lord Darth Krayt, contacted me...’ a shiver reverberated through the senators, as Padmé continued.

‘....he, for the final time, asked me to hand over control of the colonies and the Core worlds....i graciously declined’. The senators began to cheer, and Padmé felt her heart swell.

‘I fear we are on the brink of one last, great war. A battle, that will decide the fate of the Galaxy, and the fate of our children, grandchildren....the fate of our freedom...senators...go to your home planets, gather up all those willing to fight...we will at least...give it one final shot’. The senators broke into applause. Bail turned to his fellow Chancellor, tears brimming his eyes.



Anakin sat quietly, as he heard footsteps grow closer. He watched his son enter the darkened room, his eyes bleeding yellow.

‘Luke?’ sounded Anakin. Traya ignored him, and stepped forward.

‘What I’m about to ask you...i want the truth, and i will know if you’re lying Skywalker’, spat Traya, settling into a chair opposite his father. Anakin nodded. Traya took a deep, shuddering breath.

‘Did you kill Arien because you thought she’d join me?’ he asked calmly. Anakin’s eyes widened in shock.

‘What?!’ he breathed.

‘Did you kill Arien because you thought she’d join me’ Traya repeated slowly. Anakin shook his head in disbelief.

‘Y..you think i killed Arien’ Anakin gasped, not quite sure if this was some sick joke. Traya narrowed his eyes.

‘I know the Jedi killed her, how else could she have died...she was an elf, there’s not a lot that could have killed her Skywalker’ snarled Traya.

‘I see you believe the lies that pathetic excuse for a sith has fed you’ smirked Anakin. Traya growled menacingly.

‘Watch it Skywalker, i will not hesitate to remove limb to get the truth’ he seethed, stepping closer to Anakin. Anakin returned his gaze unflinching.

‘She died of a broken heart. She died because she felt there was no reason to carry on after she lost the love of her life to the Sith. Her father told you, grief can destroy an elf, and her father warned her marrying you would destroy her....i guess he was right’ snarled Anakin, fighting the tears that were threatening to consume him. Traya’s eyes, if it was possible, grew even yellower. His anger was ready to explode from within him.

‘Are you blaming me for my wife’s death’ he growled. The room shook slightly.

‘You deserted her. She had no choice. She’d rather die than live a life without you’ spat Anakin, his own anger beginning to get the better of him. ‘You betrayed us all Luke, and because of that, she’s dead’. Traya growled again, and moved towards Anakin.

Anakin readied himself for an attack, but it never came. Traya unlocked Anakin’s force restraint cuffs, and threw his lightsaber at him.

‘You and me Skywalker, I’m ending this now’ he spat, igniting his crimson blade.

‘I won’t fight you Luke, i won’t fight my own son’, sounded Anakin. Traya roared in frustration, and leapt towards Anakin. Anakin ignited his own blade, and met the attack.

‘I have no father...i am NOT your son’ thundered Traya, bringing his blade round to meet Anakins.

‘No matter what, you’ll always be my son’ replied Anakin, flipping over Traya.

Traya lunged at Anakin again, who backed through the door, leading the duel into the darkened corridor. Traya drove his blade towards Anakins chest; as he jumped back, and brought his blade down to deflect. Crimson and cerulean met in an almighty crash, causing silver and gold sparks to fly in every direction. The continued to duel, as the battle lead into the ash and smoke filled atmosphere outside the compound.



Obi Wan rushed through the Jedi temple. He hadn’t seen Anakin in almost a day, and he was ignoring his comm. link. Something was wrong, he could feel it.

‘Master Yoda, have you seen Anakin?’ asked Obi Wan hurriedly. The diminutive Jedi master shook his head.

‘Felt it, you have not, with Traya, in battle, he is’.

‘What!’ exclaimed Obi Wan, ‘Where....how!’

‘Leave them, we must...war is coming....needed elsewhere, we are’.



Anakin jumped haphazardly onto a narrow beam, as Traya lunged once again towards him. They were nearing a narrow balcony, and below them, a vast sea of lava bubbled and smoke. Anakin steadied himself, as Traya continued to strike him in a frenzy.

‘Control your anger Luke, its making you reckless’ shouted Anakin over the din. Traya growled, and launched himself towards Anakin. Anakin flipped back, and landed on the balcony, soon joined by Traya.

‘You know NOTHING!’ screamed Traya. He struck Anakin, knocking him off balance. Traya saw his momentary weakness, and grabbed his father in a force choked.

‘L..Luke...No...N..No’ choked Anakin, gasping for breath. Traya smirked.

‘This is the end, Skywalker...now.....you die’.



Padmé fought back tears as she entered the Jedi Council room. Obi Wan had just informed her that Anakin was missing, and presumed to be fighting Traya on some distant planet. She pummelled the wall in fury and frustration. Her heart aching, fear flashing through her soul. She raised a tearstained face, as the comm. link in the council room beeped. Yoda scurried forwards to access the call. The menacing image of Darth Krayt leered at them.

‘Ahhh, I’m glad i caught you all together’ smirked Krayt, his gaze lingering on Yoda.

‘What do you want Krayt’, spat Obi Wan. Krayt smiled menacingly.

‘Since your beloved Chancellor declined my offer of peace, i have no other choice than to declare the final battle of the Jed’ responded Krayt. Several of the masters shot disgusted looks at Krayt. Yoda and Padmé remained stoic as usual.

‘And this battle, take place, where?’ asked Yoda calmly. He knew it would come to this.

‘Mindor, on the great plains. My troops are already on their way...i suggest you do not keep us waiting’ snarled Krayt.

‘Meet you in battle, we will’ replied Yoda. He shut off the comm., and turned to his fellow Jedi.

‘Ready the troops, we leave at dawn’.



Anakin clawed at his throat. He knew his attempts were futile, so he tried the only thing he thought could work.
Traya gasped angrily, as images began to play in his mind, too strong to block out.

Anakin reached out, and Padmé grabbed her throat, she began to choke.

‘Let her go, Anakin’ called Obi Wan.

‘What have you and she been up to?’ roared Anakin, his eyes bright, sith yellow.

Traya winced as the image of his wife played into his mind.

‘Let her go!’ cried Arien, tears streaming down her beautiful face.

Anakin released his grip on Padmé, and she crumpled to the floor, unconscious.
Arien rushed to Padme as she lay unconscious on the Mustafar landing pad. The din from the volcanoes was deafening, the hot air burnt her lungs as she took slow, deep breaths. She placed a hand on Padme’s forehead, and muttered a long forgotten Elven language. Padme began to stir a little. In the distance, Arien heard Obi Wan and Anakin arguing, though it was hard to make out against the roar of the volcanoes. Arien lifted her head, her eyes showed nothing but sorrow.

“Don't lecture me, Obi-Wan. I see through the lies of the Jedi. I do not fear the dark side as you do. I have brought peace, justice, freedom, and security to my new Empire”, raged Anakin, his face contorted with fury.

“Your new Empire?” retorted Obi Wan, raising an eyebrow.

“Don't make me kill you” seethed Anakin, continuing to circle his former Master.

“Anakin, my allegiance is to the Republic ... to democracy” thundered Obi Wan, mirroring Anakins movements. Arien gasped as she saw Anakin’s eyes, a bright, Sith yellow. She caught Anakin’s attention. He stared at her for a moment, studying her face. Arien felt a tear slide down her cheek.

“Anakin....” she whispered, her eyes begging him to come back. Anakin sensed her distress, but his attention was brought back by the crash of a distant volcano.

“If you're not with me, you're my enemy” he spat, turning away from Obi Wan.

“Only a Sith Lord deals in absolutes. I will do what I must” grieved Obi Wan, igniting his lightsaber.

Arien closed her eyes, not believing what has happened. She felt Padme stir a little more.

“You will try” smirked Anakin, igniting his own lightsaber.

“Anakin NO!” cried Arien, as Anakin back flipped towards Obi Wan, intent on killing him.


Traya’s eyes snapped open. He watched his father squirm, and gasp for breath. He felt his force signature weaken significantly.

‘Luke....this isn’t you Luke...don’t kill him’ whispered a bodiless voice.

Traya felt warm tears slip down his cheek, and he released his hold on his father. Anakin fell to the ground, gasping for breath. Traya stood unmoving, streams of tears falling down his face.

‘Luke...i...’ began Anakin. Traya held up a hand.

‘Krayt is planning a final battle. Thousands of Sith troops are on their way to meet the Jedi in the last war. It’s on the plains of Mindor. Get back to Coruscant, gather as many soldiers as you can...its...it’s too late for me’.

Anakin opened his mouth to respond, but Traya was already gone.



Traya sat alone in his ship, flying away from Mustafar. Soon, the Sith army and the Jedi army would meet in battle, the last stand of the Jedi.

What’s happening to me, he thought. Inside, a war waged, between light and darkness. He’d spared his father. The man who’d driven him to darkness.

‘What do i do’ he breathed, tears pouring from his eyes. Traya had killed so many, yet why had he spared his father.

Arien.

Through the cascading tears, he turned to the vast sea of stars before him, one in particular, shone brighter than all.

‘Come Luke....’ a bodiless voice whispered.

Traya shuddered, his tears flowing fiercely. Sobs wracked his body.

‘Arien’ he cried.

‘This way Luke....come Luke....’ the voice whispered again.

Traya continued flying, flying towards the star.



Mindor. A vast, grassy planet composed mostly of flat plains and rocky outcroppings. The planet was constantly bombarded with lightening storms, as Anakin remembered from a previous battle he fought there. Why Krayt chose here, Anakin never knew, but this much was certain, it was here, the fate of the Galaxy would be decided.


All troops were called back, Jedi, Republic and Elven army, all called back to Coruscant for this last battle. On Coruscant, Padmé wept silently. It had not rained on Coruscant since the time of the Old Republic, but the black clouds now covered Coruscant, as if the planet itself was mourning too.


Anakin landed on Coruscant, still confused over his encounter with Luke. He felt the light in Luke; a battle was ensuing within his eldest child....would the light succeed.


The remaining Jedi Masters sat silently in the council room. All that was left were Anakin, Obi Wan, Yoda, Neeja and Shaak Ti. No words were spoken, at this point, things were better left unsaid.

‘Tomorrow, we leave’ whispered Yoda. The Masters nodded.


Anakin returned to his apartment. Aiden and Aayla were on Naboo with Padmé’s family. Should the worst happen, they would remain there.

‘Ani?’ came a quiet voice from the shadows. Anakin sighed.

Padmé stepped forward, dressed in a simple white nightgown, her eyes puffy and red. She walked slowly towards Anakin, nestling into his chest.

‘This is it....isn’t it?’ she whispered. Anakin closed his eyes, pain running through his heart.

‘Ani, i want you to know.....whatever happens tomorrow....i will always love you, with all my heart, and soul.....’ Padmé began.

‘Don’t talk like that, everything will be fine’ said Anakin, pushing her forward to look her in the eye. Padmé shivered.

‘We.....we’ve lost so much....but....i want you to know....the moment i met you....you saved me...in all the ways a person can be saved....you’ve given me everything i could have ever dreamed of....thank you, Anakin.....thank you’ breathed Padmé, a lonely tear making its way down her cheek. Anakin turned away, emotion overcoming him. No more words were said....tonight, love spoke loud enough.



The entire Republican fleet, armed and ready to depart Coruscant, awaited the order of the Jedi. Anakin took one last look at Coruscant, his home for so long...and maybe the last time he’d ever be here. He watched hundreds of families bade tearful farewells to the soldiers, all of them willing to die for peace.

One sight brought pain to his heart, yet hope to his soul.
Padmé and Leia, both dressed in white battle suits, accompanied by many senators of the Galactic Free Alliance, strode towards him. Anakin sensed no fear from them, only love, passion, and hope for a better Galaxy. They stopped, and Padmé walked forward.

‘On behalf of the Senators of the Galactic Free Alliance, i offer our services’ she sounded.

Anakin felt tears form in his eyes. Leia stood, a blaster hooked to her belt, a calm, yet defiant look on her face. Bail Organa, old as he was, determined more than ever, to serve the Republic he loved. Mon Mothma, nodding her head, understanding what needed to be done. Around fifty senators stood before Anakin, ready to fight.

Anakin took a deep shuddering breath, nothing he said, could change their minds.

‘Thank you’ he whispered.


‘Master Skywalker’ came a voice from behind him. Anakin turned.

The last of the Elven army stood before him, led by King Elladan. There were few left, but the strength within their hearts was enough.

‘Your Highness.....i cannot express how...’ Anakin began, but was cut off.

‘Never, have the elves refused the call of the Jedi....we fight for peace....we fight for Arien....we will fight to the end, brother’ replied Elladan proudly. The elves bowed before Anakin.



Traya came out of hyperspace, before him, a glowing white planet, pulsing in the force. Traya shuddered, the light terrified him, but he knew what he had to do.


‘Children of the force, come, the time has. Yet lead you into battle, i do not’ sounded Grand Master Yoda to the troops before him. Several moments ago, the Republic army landed on Mindor, awaiting their fate. Yoda stood on a rock, before little over a thousand beings from all over the Galaxy, all that was left of their army.

‘Lead you into battle, they bravest man ever i have met, win today, we may not, because of him, if die we will, die we will free’. Yoda turned to Anakin, leaning against his gimer stick.

‘Son of the Suns, you are, Hero with no Fear, you are.....Saviour to us all, most certainly, always you have been’. Anakin remained silent, and bowed to the ageing Jedi Master.

‘It's an honour to fight alongside you Master’ he replied. Yoda said nothing. There was no need. The smile he gave told Anakin everything.



Traya landed on this, most strangest of planets. From stories he’d been told by one he loved, he knew instantly where he was.....Iego. He stood before a grand palace of white marble. The grass below him shone emerald green, the sky above him, the same shade of blue he bore in his eyes. He stared at a being descending the marble steps. Her hair shone white-gold in the bright sun. Her long silver gown shimmered, lighting up her surroundings. A simple white crown rested upon her head, shining brighter than the sun itself.

Queen Thelweniel of the Diathim.

‘Young Skywalker, it is time’ she spoke, her voice a distant echo. Traya nodded, not fully understanding, yet so at peace she dare not refuse her. He followed her into the great palace. In the distance, the cry of a child could be heard.


‘She is in here’ sounded the echo, and the Queen waved her hand towards a set of green doors. Traya slowly walked towards them.



‘Anakin?’ called Obi Wan, briskly walking towards him. The sky above them darkened, light rain began to fall.

‘Yes Obi Wan?’ he replied, searching the sky and the force for any signs of the sith. Obi Wan stood directly in front of Anakin.

‘I always knew, even when we first met, there was something special about you, rude and argumentative as you were, i knew it’ laughed Obi Wan. Anakin grinned.

‘I never thought it would come to this. One battle....deciding everything’ sighed Obi Wan, looking to the sky, ‘i guess Arien was right’. Anakin nodded, deep in thought.

‘I’m so scared Obi Wan...so scared’ Anakin whispered, turning to his former master. Obi Wan nodded.

‘So am i’. They stood in silence, until Obi Wan took a deep breath.

‘At least....if this is the end...i die fighting alongside the greatest man, Jedi...and friend I’ve ever known.....i love you Anakin, my brother....and if this truly is our end, knowing we gave it one last try, brothers in arms....that will bring more peace to me than the force ever could’. Anakin turned to see his brother, both smiling and crying.

‘I love you too Obi Wan, fighting with you....is the greatest honour a man could ask for’ replied Anakin, his own tears falling. The brothers embraced, as the calm before the storm finally began.



Traya stood in complete silence, drinking in the sight of the beautiful woman stood before him. This can’t be real....it must be a dream...she can’t....she’s...dead?

‘What are you doing here’ spat Arien, rising from her seat.

Traya stood in, unmoving, unable to speak. His beautiful Arien, the love of his life, stood before him...alive.

‘Traya....answer me’ she shouted, hate emanating from within her. Traya winced at her words.

‘I....i...don’t know’ he whispered quietly. Arien frowned.

‘Then leave’ she spat, turning away from him.

‘No’ replied Traya.

‘What did you say?’ exclaimed Arien, anger rising.

‘How....is this...possible....you’re....you’re dead!’ breathed Traya, tears overcoming him. Arien shivered. As much as she hated him right now, seeing him cry brought pain to her heart.

‘They brought me back....Queen Thelweniel....apparently i wasn’t meant to die’ explained Arien quietly. Traya heard the cry of a child, his head snapped towards a small bed, hidden from view by large, maroon curtains.

‘I...I...’ he stammered, not quite sure what to say. Arien narrowed her eyes.

‘If you have nothing to say....then leave’, she spat, turning away from him. A soft wind blew through her hair, yet she ignored it.

‘No...not until we talk....not until i see my son’ Traya defied. Arien narrowed her eyes.

‘He is not your son....you gave up the right to a son the day you joined Krayt. Which reminds me, shouldn’t you be killing Jedi or destroying the Galaxy or something? Please hurry up with it, I’m sick of not knowing whether I’m going to die or not’ she fumed, turning towards the bed.

‘W...what do you mean?’ asked Traya. Why was he afraid...Sith don’t know fear.

‘If the Galactic Free Alliance falls...as do i...if the Galactic Free Alliance falls....your fate is sealed....i married Luke Skywalker....i gave my love to him....if Traya wins....i die’ she breathed. Traya shuddered.

Arien felt tears brewing at the mention of her husband’s true name. Her anger abated, and sorrow took over. Her heart ached, her soul grieved.

‘Why....why did you do it....tell me’ she whispered, moving closer. Traya felt a prickle at his eyes, his vision becoming blury.

‘Tell me....why did you leave me....why don’t you love me’, Arien breathed.

Her voice was an echo now....far away, in a different time, a different Galaxy. He was alone...or was he.

‘Luke....’



The Sith starships lowered to the ground, casting great shadows over the Republic army. As thousands of Sith warriors descended the ramps, Anakin Skywalker turned to his army...his brothers...his friends.

‘Peace. Such a small word. So overlooked when it is upon you....so needed when it’s not. Today is not about peace....we may never have true peace. Today is about hope. Hope that today we may begin to build a Galaxy where peace is not just a word....but a way of life. We have a chance here, to put right all the wrongs that have been committed. I know how hard it is...to redeem...to doubt yourself every day....to beg for forgiveness not only from others but from yourself. It’s hard....so hard....but not impossible. Each and every one of us has made mistakes....the mistake of falling to the dark side....the mistake of not listening....the mistake of not believing in those you love the most.....but today...it doesn’t matter. Today we lay aside our mistakes, our differences, our sorrow and our pain. Today....we are at peace....and no matter the outcome....we will leave this battle citizens of the Galactic Free Alliance....we will leave this battle free’. Cheers erupted from the crowd, tears of joy...whatever happened....they were free.


Krayt cackled menacingly.

‘You see, Sith Lords....you see how they cower, use their fear....it makes you stronger....now comes the time of the Sith’. The Sith army roared, fierce and loud.

‘Leave none alive’ growled Krayt.



Traya crumpled to the floor, pain coursing through him. He screamed in agony, images flashing before him.

His mother, smiling proudly, a tear in her eye. Leia, she laughs, her laugh is like music to his ears .The twins, Aiden and Aayla, looking up at him in adoration. Obi Wan, he claps fiercely, his eyes wide with pride. Arien, all he can feel is love....so much love.

His father, proudest of all, reaches a hand out to him.

‘Luke....’

Traya extends his hand....ready to grasp it.


Fire erupts around them, their screams deafen him. His mothers cries out in pain, Leia shrieks, calling for help. The twins are crying, great sobs wrack their bodies. Obi Wan roars in fury and agony. Arien screams, hysterical.

His father says only one word, filled with pain beyond recognition.

‘Traya...’


Luke snapped his eyes open, his breathing harsh and uneven. Arien watched him, her face horror stricken.

‘L....Luke’ she whispered. Luke lifted his head, shaking.

‘Yes....it is....’



The Sith army started to walk towards the Republicans.

‘Hold your positions....do not fear them’ called Anakin, his lightsaber unsheathed. Behind him every man and woman, every free citizen of the Galactic Free Alliance unsheathed their weapons.

‘Padmé...Leia....stay close to me or Obi Wan, do you understand’ ordered Anakin.

His wife and daughter merely nodded, blasters at the ready. Anakin glanced at his fellow Jedi, all of them ready, faces full of determination. The Sith had begun to jog, getting quicker by the second.



‘Luke...’ whispered the bodiless voice. Luke nodded, full understanding.

‘We’ll be with you....it’s alright....we’ll be with you till the end’ continued the bodiless voice.


Luke opened his eyes, Arien was kneeling over him.

‘W...what happened?’ she breathed, her face tearstained.

‘I have to go’ he smiled, getting to his feet.

‘What...why...Luke what’s going on....how do i even know your Luke?’ cried Arien, hanging onto the front of his....brown robes?

‘How did you...’ she began, utterly confused.

‘It is me my love...i know that now...’ he whispered, his words soothing her.

‘B..but....how do i know you’re not just saying that?’ she said painfully. Luke smiled faintly.

‘Because i can see them’ he replied, looking over Arien’s shoulder.

‘See who Luke...’ she asked, turning to see what he was looking at.

‘Oh...’ she gasped lightly. A smile crossed her face....tears were pouring.



The Sith were mere feet away, the Republican army braced themselves, as wave upon wave of sith, Rakghoul crashed down on them.

The war had begun.

Anakin spun quickly, striking down two sith soldiers in the process. He turned, and saw Padmé and Leia shooting down anything that crossed their path. Obi Wan and his fellow Jedi attacked without mercy, dismembering Rakghouls, decapitating Sith, striking down their opponents with such force it sent ripples of power shooting down Anakins spine. Above them, sith and republic starfighters fired bombs and blaster bolts at their enemies, slaying as many as they could.

Anakin was thrown to the ground as a bomb launched by the sith landed nearby, blasting several soldiers to pieces.

The elves fired their Adegan arrows furiously, and when an opponent drew closer, struck them down with gleaming swords. Anakin felt death throughout the force, Jedi and Sith. The Alliances numbers were dropping rapidly, and Anakin feared they would soon be overwhelmed. He cried out in pain as a Rakghoul fired its blaster at him, catching his leg. He crumpled to the ground.

‘Anakin...Anakin’ cried Padmé, shooting her way towards him. Anakin ignored the pain, dragging himself to his feet, striking down as many of his opponents as possible.

Obi Wan dove in front of Leia, as a sith soldier tried to strike her with his blade.

‘Uncle Ben.....NOOOO!’ cried Leia. Obi Wan fell to the ground, clutching his stomach. Leia shot the sith far more times than needed, her anger overwhelming her.

Anakin swayed, so much death and destruction. He felt warm tears make their way down his cheeks. He could hear the screams of pain from his fellow comrades, but they would not beg for mercy. They died heroes....they died free.


‘It’s too late......they’ve won’ Anakin croaked. Padmé began to weep. Their numbers were few, but they continued to fight. More sith starships landed, more enemy fighters joined the battle. Anakin fell to the ground, as the death of all his brothers in arms pounded through the force.

‘It’s....too....too late’ he breathed.


Light.


A great white light shone from the sky, engulfing everything, blinding each other from sight. Anakin heard the gasps of horror from the sith....

It was so bright. Brighter than any sun, any star. It continued to glow, consuming the shadows. Anakin felt peace, serenity and love wash over him. The sith stopped attacking, fear consuming. The light began to dim.

‘Anakin.....what’s going on?’ called Neeja, his eyes wide. Anakin merely shook his head. Something caught his eye.


A blue haze in the distance. Growing larger and larger, coming towards them. The Sith began to break ranks, backing away from the blue light travelling towards them. Anakin heard calls of fear from the sith. The blue light was so close....so close.

Anakin smiled.

Luke ran, lightsaber unsheathed, ready to end this battle. Behind him, the force ghosts of every Jedi the Galaxy had ever known floated behind him. They each carried a bright white blade.

The force ghost descended upon the Sith without mercy. Luke, his eyes the brightest blue ever seen, drove through the sith forces, cutting them down easily. The force ghosts, unable to be harmed, cut down their enemy with such skill and ease, the Sith numbers were halved within minutes.

Anakin gingerly rose to his feet, supported by Padmé. He turned to the shocked faces of his living comrades, and smiled.

He charged, screaming in ecstasy. The Alliance caught on, and followed, crying out in joy. Wave upon wave of force ghosts descended upon the Sith. Krayt watched in horror, as his empire quickly fell to silver, blue, and green blades. To blasters and swords, to bows and arrows.

He turned to flee, but was met by two sets of bright blue eyes. Luke looked at his father, and smirked.

‘Take him together?’ he asked.

‘With pleasure’ snarled Anakin. They ignited their blades, and lunged at Krayt.

Krayt withdrew a double ended crimson saber, and furiously swung the saber at the two Jedi before him. Anakin and Luke attacked him with perfect skill, complimenting their moves, and driving Krayt to the ground. With two swift strokes, Krayt’s arms were gone. Another two, and so were his legs. Father and son stopped, staring at the pitiful form before them.

‘T...Traya....y...you TRAITOR!’ roared Krayt, howling in pain. Luke narrowed his eyes.

‘You're right.... i am a traitor....a traitor to those i love....your death is the only way i can start to redeem my actions....the only way i can prove how truly, despairingly sorry i am....for all i have caused’. Luke bowed his head in shame. Around them, the last Sith warrior was slain, and the Alliance turned to watch the defeat of Darth Krayt.

Anakin moved towards his son, tears streaming down his face. He placed a hand on Luke’s shoulder. Luke turned to face his father.

‘I...I’m...so..’ he gasped, sobs echoing around him. Anakin smiled, and squeezed his shoulder.

‘You are forgiven’.

In unison, the two Jedi drove their blades into Krayt’s heart. Krayt howled, taking his last breath. He writhed in pain, cursing all those around him.

And then, he was no more.



Cheers erupted around them. Everyone on the battle field cried hysterically, hugging kissing, whooping and jumping. They were free.

Anakin pulled his son into a fierce embrace, both of them succumbing to tears. Anakin was wrenched away from his son, as Padmé through herself at Luke, crying uncontrollably. Leia fought her way through the crowds, closely followed by Han, who was supporting an injured, yet very much alive, Obi Wan.

Padmé released her son, unable to find words. Leia tapped her brother on the shoulder. Luke turned, and Leia punched him right in the jaw.

‘That!....is for betraying us!’ she thundered, fury etched into her face. Luke stared fearfully at his sister.

‘I..I..’ he stammered. Leia stepped towards him, and threw herself into his embrace, laughing. Luke picked her up, and spun her around, laughing to. He placed her down, and noticed tears etching her beautiful face.

‘And that....is for saving us all’ she cried, falling into his embrace again. Han raced over, clapping Luke on the back. Obi Wan roared furiously, whilst hugging him fiercely as well.

The cheering grew quiet, as Master Yoda, followed by the force ghosts, neared Luke, studying him closely.

‘Master Yoda....I’ began Luke, but the little green alien held up a wrinkled claw.

‘No apologies, saving us, is the greatest apology of all’ he smiled. And in a move that shocked all, he beckoned Luke to bend down, and Grand Master Yoda of the Jedi Order, embraced Luke like a son.

Anakin watched the exchange tearfully, but something averted his eyes. He shuddered, as he saw Mace Windu, and all other Jedi who fell in Order 66, staring at him intently. Anakin stepped towards them.

‘Masters...i....i am truly sorry....i cannot begin to ex..’ he stopped mid sentence, as Windu began to chuckle.

‘Anakin Skywalker, because of today, because of your redemption....because of everything....you are truly forgiven’ he announced.

The force ghosts began to clap, quickly joined by the living. Anakin felt tears resume their paths down his cheek. He noticed Qui Gon Jinn, clapping furiously and proudly, his ghostly hand on a teary eyed Obi Wan’s shoulder. He turned to his family, beaming through their tears.

‘Let's go home’ he smiled.

[adea]

Chapter 10 – Peace


The celebrations carried on long into the night, as the Alliance landed on Coruscant. Even the force ghosts lingered a little longer, before finally rejoining the force. Luke stood to the side, smiling. He hadn’t told his father, or anyone else that Arien was alive. It’ll be a nice surprise, he thought.

The next day, a grand ceremony was held in the Jedi Temple gardens. Those who couldn’t fit into the gardens, watched the ceremony on large holo screens throughout the city, all rejoicing in the defeat of the Sith.

Anakin strolled into the temple gardens, and scanned his surroundings. He sighed sadly. King Elladan had rushed off to an emergency on Valoor.

‘He should be here...he played a big a part in this as i did’ he muttered to himself.

Anakin strode towards his family. Padmé radiated beauty and love, dressed in an exquisite white gown, truly making her look like an angel. Leia clung to her husband, still crying with joy. Even Han had shed a few tears, though thoroughly denied it when brought up. Anakin laughed as he watched Dormé fuss over Obi Wan's bandages, and laughed even harder as he heard his response.

‘Will you leave them alone, I’m bloody fine’ snapped Obi Wan. Dormé raised an eyebrow sternly, before laughing, and kissing her beloved.

‘Dad’ called Aiden and Aayla, rushing to their father, and embracing him. They’d just returned from Naboo, and no doubt wanted him to regale them with tales of the battle.
Anakin was released from their crushing embrace, and came face to face with his son.

‘We’re getting special ‘redemption’ medals’, Luke chuckled, ‘mom’s idea’. Anakin laughed heartily.

‘Listen, dad....I’m so sorry, about everything...what i did...was beyond stupid...beyond evil...and i..’

Anakin raised his hand to still his voice.

‘No apologies, remember. We’re together, we’re at peace...that’s all that matters’ he smile. Luke began to cry.

‘I’m so proud of you dad....you saved me’ he weeped, embracing his father. Anakin was about to reply, when Padmé called him forward to receive his medal.

Anakin stood before his wife, behind him, hundreds of Alliance members watched proudly as their leader received commendation for his actions.

He faced the crowd, and noticed a group of people slowly walking down the aisle to where he stood. His eyes widened, as they rested upon a woman walking next to King Elladan. Her skin shone moon bright, her dark curls fluttered in the breeze, her bright green eyes sparkled in the morning sun.

Arien.

Anakin raced down from the stage, and gathered Arien up into his arms.

‘You’re....you’re...’ he gasped, tears overwhelming him.

‘Alive?’ Arien giggled. Anakin let out a throaty laugh, and felt someone shove past him.

‘Obi Wan, for god’s sake you've just been stabbed in the stomach!’ scolded Dormé, amidst laughs from the crowd.

‘H...How?’ breathed Obi Wan.

‘Do not underestimate the power of the Elves...we’re so much cooler than you mere mortals’ laughed Arien. Her smile faded, as Luke nervously approached.

‘Arien’ he whispered, tears streaming down his face. Arien gave way to her own tears.

‘I’m so sorry’ croaked Luke. Arien pressed a finger to his lips.

‘Shut up and kiss me!’

The crowd cheered as Luke and Arien surrendered themselves to a passionate kiss, not caring they had millions of spectators all over the Galaxy. They broke apart, as Arien’s sister, Nariel, stepped forward, carrying a small child.

‘Luke...this is our son, Ben Anakin Skywalker’ she smiled, as Nariel handed him to Luke.

Luke gazed in wonder at the small boy he held, tears ferociously engulfing his face.

‘Daddy!’ laughed Ben, wrapping his chubby arms around Luke’s neck. Luke pulled Arien into an embrace....they were finally a family.


Anakin watched the exchange, his heart swelling with love. He felt small arms snake around his waist.

‘I want another one’ sighed Padmé, looking wistfully at the small baby.

‘You already have’ beamed Anakin. Padmé gasped, and began to cry. Anakin turned to Obi Wan and Dormé.

‘And you won’t be alone?’ he smiled. Dormé gasped, a hand shooting to her abdomen. Obi Wan narrowed his eyes, a look of upmost concentration on his face, and he smiled.


Finally....they were truly, at peace.

[adea]

Epilogue


From that moment on, peace reigned in the galaxy forever. Never again, did the oppression of the Sith threaten the peace they had won.

The Skywalker family lived long and happy lives, together at last.

Padmé and Bail continued their work as co-Chancellors of the Galactic Free Alliance, reclaiming the lost planets, and rebuilding the government to its former glory.

Luke finally got his wish, and was granted the rank of Jedi Master, joining his father, wife, and friends, on the Jedi council.

A year later, another six children were welcomed into the ever growing Skywalker family. The first, yet another set of twins, born to Padmé, Shmi and Mace Skywalker. Next, Dormé and Obi Wan had a son, Qui Gon Kenobi. Soon after that, Leia and Han were given a set of twins, Jacen and Jaina Solo. Anakin wondered if Han would actually be able to cope with the pair, they definitely had their mothers stubborn streak in them. And finally, as winter came, Arien gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Aya Arethiel Skywalker. Luke and Obi Wan had already decided that Qui Gon and Aya were to marry, something that greatly amused Arien and Dormé.


The Sith never again disrupted their peace, and the Galaxy started anew. High above them, a woman watched over the family, smiling through her tears.


The force ghost of Qui Gon Jinn slowly floated towards a woman, stood facing away from him. Beyond her, the image of Anakin, his family, and friends, enjoying the peace they so deserved.

The woman before him sensed his arrival.

‘Wonderful, isn’t it?’ she breathed wistfully. Qui Gon moved beside her, enjoying the scene.

‘It is’, he replied. He paused for a second, a mischievous smile crossing his face.

‘If the force finds out you’ve been helping them, you’re done for’ he chuckled, putting an arm around the woman.

‘I don’t know what you’re talking about’ the woman replied, smiling. She turned her face to Qui Gon’s.

‘They think I’m just a star’ smiled Shmi.



“God didn’t promise days without pain.
Laughter without sorrow,
Sun without rain.
But he did promise,
Strength for the day,
Comfort for the tears,
And Light for the way.”
Anonymous