Post by Annie on Feb 17, 2007 18:42:50 GMT -5
The Skywalker Dynasty, Chapter 30
Epilogue
ONE YEAR LATER
The announcement had gone out to friends, family,
associates and well wishers all over the galaxy, in
print and in hologram:
Anakin and Padme Skywalker request the honor of your
presence at the marriage of their daughter, Leia
Organa Skywalker,
to General Han Solo, at the newly restored Jedi
Temple, city center, Coruscant. Reception to follow at
the Skwyalker home.
"Padme, over here!" Anakin called out. "Do you think there are enough seats out here on the balcony?"
"Yes, dear, some might prefer it inside."
"And miss out on all this fresh air, and this incredible view?" He waved his hand across the scenery of the bright and shiny city which had been so painstakingly restored after the dark times a year before.
She just smirked and patted him on the back. "Not everyone has been through all you and I have, or appreciate it as much." He hugged her and stroked her hair, staring out into the city again. She snuggled him tight but softly.
Anakin raised his head and turned an ear toward the open doorway to the house. "Wait, is that Anamae I hear? Is she crying? Is she okay?"
"Of course she is, I want nothing but the best for our new daughter. We missed the others growing up, we're going to enjoy this one to the fullest!"
"But still, Threepio? A droid for a babysitter?"
"We have no one more loyal. And we do have Dorme too, on days when we are all busy. It was so good to find her again! You know, no baby could be more loved. Let's go check on her." Without thinking she grabbed his hand, and he followed along. They made their way into the beautiful nursery, furnished and decorated with the finest things available in the galaxy. What a special little girl she was, named after both of her parents, and arriving just three weeks before her sister's wedding. It had been an easy pregnancy and and easier birth, by the blessings of the force, there had never been any worries. She was healthy and beautiful, with a hint of her father's golden curls already. They both stood and lovingly gazed at her asshe slept. "I guess she was just having a nightmare."Padme whispered.
"A NIGHTMARE? Oh no!" Anakin whispered back, half joking, "I hope she's not going to have the gift, or rather the curse that I had."
Padme shook her head. "Nothingcould be cursed about this child. She was too perfect, she is a gift.I am sure of it."
Anakin smiled and looked at his daughter again. "She is so beautiful."
"It's only because you're so happy, and we're so in love."
"That was exactly what I had in mind" They hugged and kissed, quietly as not to disturb the baby. Padme walked over and shut the windows, just to make sure she was safe. "Sssh, we'd better get ready, the guests
should be arriving soon." It was hard to leave the baby, their little miracle, and symbol of their restored lives. She was such a joy to them, and Padme was feeling well enough for the wedding so soon after her birth.
Leia and Han had wanted to get married right away, but had delayed it to exactly a year later so that things could be put in order, and the city could be secured and rebuilt. It had been done ahead of schedule, though the activity, work zones and constant around the clock clanging had been a burden to everyone for awhile. It was worth it now that it was not only back to normal, but improved. Businesses were booming, and those involved in contruction and other building and work industries had done very well, from the owners to the hired workers. It was indeed a time of prosperity for all, and peace, and contentment. It was a great era to bring another child into the universe, and to send an older daughter to begin her own family.
Leia and Padme were very active and helpful in the Senate, and were grateful to have so much help so they could also have time to themselves. Anakin and Luke had totally restored the Jedi Temple, and created a museum of the old days, the glory days, the dark days, and the new days. Holograms, artifacts, stories, memories, of a thousand generations, and a thousand to come. The other Jedi were helping, and learning what they needed to know to train the next generation of Jedi to come, Jedi who need not fear attachment.Luke and Kyrie were very much in love and intended to marry, and everyone joked them about a child of two Jedi being the most force sensitive being ever in the universe, something very special. They were two Jedi side by side in every aspect of life. Their love was real, and pure, and no bad could come of it. For it was learned that attachment is a form of love and compassion that only makes one deeper feeling for every life, and should not be discouraged. If someone was caring and sensitive to become a Jedi, this was only natural. So it will be written, and done.
Downstairs, the doorbells chimed. "I'll get it" Threepio called as he took the elevator to the main entrance. He opened the door to find Padme's entire family there, her aging parents, sister Sola, her now grown daughters, one of whom was married and had two children of her own, and her son, born about the same time as Luke and Leia.
He was engaged and brought his fiancee' with him. They stepped inside, and immediately everyone's eyes scanned the place from side to side, top to bottom.They had been visited by Anakin and Padme, and Luke and Leia, on Naboo, when the news was carefully broken to the elderly parents so their joy would not shock them into bad health.This was their first visit to Coruscant since then, and the first time they would see the baby. They were very impressed with the place, and so happy to be there under good circumstances. Threepio led them up an elevator, worrying for the health of the old ones on the stairs four floors above to the highest level.
The mechanical doors opened, and they stepped out to see their beloved Padme standing there smiling. "I still can't believe it." Her mother said, in tears, as they hugged. Her father joined them, moving very slowly. "All those years we suffered, and to have you again, nothing could have been greater in all time, in all the universe." They were now so happy, and had new grandchildren to make their last years happy ones.There had been those on Naboo who did not believe the miracle until they had Padme's coffin exhumed and it was shown to be empty. Now her story was a legend that would last for all time on Naboo, and througout the galaxy. Her untimely death, her resurrection, and her return to rise liberty from the ashes. This tale was going down in history, recorded by the Whills, and something children would learn of for as long as the suns allowed the planets to survive, and the force was with them all. While it was awesome on a grand scale as well, the personal part was just as special to her family had she not had any other signifcance. She was their precious Padme, and she was back again. No one could stop looking at her, touching her, and embracing her.
Just then, Anakin walked up holding a frilly white and pink bundle. "Here she is, meet Anamae Shmi Skywalker!"
Everyone ran up and peered into the adorable little face as Anakin peeled the lace back from her face. She wiggled and cooed, but did not cry. She looked up at them, and they could have sworn they saw a smile.
"She's got your eyes, Anakin, and your hair, it appears." Sola said. "But those are Padme's lips, and her nose. I'd know them anywhere. I remember holding my baby sister and seeing her lay just in that pose."
"She's so beautiful!" Everyone agreed, not only beautiful in looks, but beautiful to be alive, created by parents who were themselves miracles. After all the family was shown to the rooms they'd be staying in, and put everything away except for their gifts for the bride and groom, they all got dressed and headed for the Jedi temple for the wedding.
Sola quietly handed a special bag to her youngest daughter and whispered for her to give it to cousin Leia in her dressing area as soon as they arrived.
Taking a speeder large enough to carry everyone, and covered as not to muss their hair, Anakin did the flying and the family members all left for the wedding. Even Threepio and R2 came along, they wouldn't miss this special moment. The parking area was full of familiar vehicles, they saw that Luke, Lando, and Wedge were already there. Han had wanted Luke to be best man, but when Leia said she'd kissed her brother 2 too many times already, he had to choose between Lando and Chewy. Despite the comment she had made once that she'd rather kiss a wookiee than Han, she really didn't want to, so Lando got the job.
The family came in through a special entrance. Padme's family took their seats in a place of honor, except for one cousin who took her special package to Leia, and the children who were to walk in front of the procession. No one but she and her mother Sola knew what was inside. Of course, Han didn't get to see her that day, even though he bemoaned what a foolish superstition from another planet that tradition was. By now, Han had learned not to doubt or question anything mystical after all his experiences had completely changed his position on belief in the force!
In Anakin's old chamber at the Jedi temple, the guys were spiffing themselves up in front of a mirror. Han stared at his reflection, and his posh outfit, and couldn't believe this was happening. He spoke to himself, but also to his friends, when he said "So, do you think a princess, and a guy like me?" He looked over at Luke, who was already about to laugh. "Well, here we go." He said, and everyone walked out, hearts pounding. The same feelings were stirring in Leia, as she came out of her dressing area. Padme kissed her one more time, then went back to her seat. By the time Leia was ready to come out, Han and Lando were already standing waiting for her next to the Shaman. Luke sat down next to his mother, and squeezed her hand. They smiled at each other, and Luke winked at Han and Lando.
Finally the music started, and Leia emerged in the doorway. Anakin, who was standing there waiting to escort her down the aisle, was so stunned and moved by the sight of her that his heart accelerated, his eyes started to water and a lump came in his throat. There she was, in the same lace dress and veil Padme had worn at their secret wedding on Naboo many years ago. Those images, and many memories good and bad, flooded his mind. So that was what the secret in the bag was! After all the fuss Leia had made over picking out a dress, there was none she would rather have worn on that day. She walked up to her father, and slid her arm in his. As she looked up at him, he could see her damp, glowing and a tight but heartfelt smile through the lace. He returned her gaze and expression of love. For the first time he really completely felt like she was his daughter, and she had accepted him and loved him as her father. His emotions were getting the best of him again, as they always had.
With one more loving look, he turned forward, and they walked down the aisle together. They looked at every face the crowd as they passed, Jedi, Senators, friends and family, and even the droids, they couldn't help but think of those who were not there. Anakin thought of his mother, Leia thought of her much loved adoptive parents. Han was also thinking of his parents, who had been gone for many years, and they all thought of many friends they had lost along the way in the rebellion. Surely, somehow, somewhere in the force, they must all know, and send their love. Anakin thought of the force spirits, and sensed they were there, though not materialized. As they passed the family, there were more warm glances and tears of joy. When Padme saw her old wedding dress, she was so surprised and overcome she almost stood up, her mouth half open, her eyes very wide, and soon filled with so many tears she had to blink them away to clear her view of her daughter. Leia smiled through the lace, and Anakin gave a special look and smile to Padme, which she returned. All the memories of their own wedding replayed in their minds. They were not only moved by that, but that their daughter had chosen to wear the same dress as a tribute. How sly Sola was, she thought, and how sweet! Padme gave one more loving glance at Leia and Anakin, which they responded to with their own, then they moved on. The energy of love was so thick in the room you didn't have to have the force to feel it. When they had reached the front, Anakin let go of Leia's arm, and she joined her hands with Han's as they faced each
other. The Shaman began to speak.
****************
The reception at the Skywalker home that evening was one of happiness and enjoyment for all the guests. Leia danced with Lando, Luke, and Anakin, and saved her last dance for Han. It continued into the night, and as the stars came out, the happy couple emerged from another room dressed in their traveling clothes.
"Leia, I want to tell you one more time how special it was for me, and your father, to see you in that dress." Padme told her.
"I wouldn't have had it any other way." Leia smiled back at her.
"Before you go, could you tell me where you put it?"
"I hung it in Anamae's closet. She should be the next to wear it."
"That's so sweet, darling. And then, your own daughter."
"If I have a daughter." She blushed.
"You will, and a son, too, you're going to have twins, a boy and a girl, just like me. Your father has forseen this."
"I will not doubt his visions, ever again." Han laughed.
"You won't have to." Anakin said as he walked up. "I don't have them anymore. I had that one when I first met up with you and Leia when you took us from Tatooine. After what happened on Naboo, I've been cured of them."
"You lost your gift?" Everyone stared at him, shocked by his revelation.
"Gift? It was a curse. It hurt me, hurt everyone, much more than it ever helped. I don't want to see the future anymore. Whatever is going to happen, I don't want to know!" He laughed out loud. "And you wouldn't believe how much better I sleep now, knowing my nightmares aren't going to come true!"
Leia looked at her parents, and Han. "So whatever the future will be, let's make it a good one, a happy one, the best one possible."
"And the force will be with us, always." Luke told her as he hugged her just as she was leaving.
In the shadows, three force spirits watched, smiled, and nodded in approval of them all.
There were many more hugs and good wishes as the newlyweds got into the Milennium Falcon and flew away to their honeymoon on several different planets. As it took off, everyone laughed, because they saw that all Han's buddies had tied noisemakers, streamers and other things to the back, that would surely end up as space junk or burn up through the atmosphere, but for now were jovial and hilarious. There was also a sign to show they were just married. As they took their leave, they found they were not leaving Coruscant without a huge sendoff. Luke, Lando, Chewy and Wedge followed them in their fighters, shooting out fireworks, spinning behind and around them, everyone in the vehicles laughing the whole time. Anakin held his own beautiful, much loved bride in his arms as they watched from their glorious scenic overlook on the balcony. As they flew higher and higher, all the vehicles' lights blended with the stars in the sky far above the glow of the city. It was a fond farewell, but not a goodbye. There had been too many goodbyes, there would be no more for the Skywalkers.
THE END!
Epilogue
ONE YEAR LATER
The announcement had gone out to friends, family,
associates and well wishers all over the galaxy, in
print and in hologram:
Anakin and Padme Skywalker request the honor of your
presence at the marriage of their daughter, Leia
Organa Skywalker,
to General Han Solo, at the newly restored Jedi
Temple, city center, Coruscant. Reception to follow at
the Skwyalker home.
"Padme, over here!" Anakin called out. "Do you think there are enough seats out here on the balcony?"
"Yes, dear, some might prefer it inside."
"And miss out on all this fresh air, and this incredible view?" He waved his hand across the scenery of the bright and shiny city which had been so painstakingly restored after the dark times a year before.
She just smirked and patted him on the back. "Not everyone has been through all you and I have, or appreciate it as much." He hugged her and stroked her hair, staring out into the city again. She snuggled him tight but softly.
Anakin raised his head and turned an ear toward the open doorway to the house. "Wait, is that Anamae I hear? Is she crying? Is she okay?"
"Of course she is, I want nothing but the best for our new daughter. We missed the others growing up, we're going to enjoy this one to the fullest!"
"But still, Threepio? A droid for a babysitter?"
"We have no one more loyal. And we do have Dorme too, on days when we are all busy. It was so good to find her again! You know, no baby could be more loved. Let's go check on her." Without thinking she grabbed his hand, and he followed along. They made their way into the beautiful nursery, furnished and decorated with the finest things available in the galaxy. What a special little girl she was, named after both of her parents, and arriving just three weeks before her sister's wedding. It had been an easy pregnancy and and easier birth, by the blessings of the force, there had never been any worries. She was healthy and beautiful, with a hint of her father's golden curls already. They both stood and lovingly gazed at her asshe slept. "I guess she was just having a nightmare."Padme whispered.
"A NIGHTMARE? Oh no!" Anakin whispered back, half joking, "I hope she's not going to have the gift, or rather the curse that I had."
Padme shook her head. "Nothingcould be cursed about this child. She was too perfect, she is a gift.I am sure of it."
Anakin smiled and looked at his daughter again. "She is so beautiful."
"It's only because you're so happy, and we're so in love."
"That was exactly what I had in mind" They hugged and kissed, quietly as not to disturb the baby. Padme walked over and shut the windows, just to make sure she was safe. "Sssh, we'd better get ready, the guests
should be arriving soon." It was hard to leave the baby, their little miracle, and symbol of their restored lives. She was such a joy to them, and Padme was feeling well enough for the wedding so soon after her birth.
Leia and Han had wanted to get married right away, but had delayed it to exactly a year later so that things could be put in order, and the city could be secured and rebuilt. It had been done ahead of schedule, though the activity, work zones and constant around the clock clanging had been a burden to everyone for awhile. It was worth it now that it was not only back to normal, but improved. Businesses were booming, and those involved in contruction and other building and work industries had done very well, from the owners to the hired workers. It was indeed a time of prosperity for all, and peace, and contentment. It was a great era to bring another child into the universe, and to send an older daughter to begin her own family.
Leia and Padme were very active and helpful in the Senate, and were grateful to have so much help so they could also have time to themselves. Anakin and Luke had totally restored the Jedi Temple, and created a museum of the old days, the glory days, the dark days, and the new days. Holograms, artifacts, stories, memories, of a thousand generations, and a thousand to come. The other Jedi were helping, and learning what they needed to know to train the next generation of Jedi to come, Jedi who need not fear attachment.Luke and Kyrie were very much in love and intended to marry, and everyone joked them about a child of two Jedi being the most force sensitive being ever in the universe, something very special. They were two Jedi side by side in every aspect of life. Their love was real, and pure, and no bad could come of it. For it was learned that attachment is a form of love and compassion that only makes one deeper feeling for every life, and should not be discouraged. If someone was caring and sensitive to become a Jedi, this was only natural. So it will be written, and done.
Downstairs, the doorbells chimed. "I'll get it" Threepio called as he took the elevator to the main entrance. He opened the door to find Padme's entire family there, her aging parents, sister Sola, her now grown daughters, one of whom was married and had two children of her own, and her son, born about the same time as Luke and Leia.
He was engaged and brought his fiancee' with him. They stepped inside, and immediately everyone's eyes scanned the place from side to side, top to bottom.They had been visited by Anakin and Padme, and Luke and Leia, on Naboo, when the news was carefully broken to the elderly parents so their joy would not shock them into bad health.This was their first visit to Coruscant since then, and the first time they would see the baby. They were very impressed with the place, and so happy to be there under good circumstances. Threepio led them up an elevator, worrying for the health of the old ones on the stairs four floors above to the highest level.
The mechanical doors opened, and they stepped out to see their beloved Padme standing there smiling. "I still can't believe it." Her mother said, in tears, as they hugged. Her father joined them, moving very slowly. "All those years we suffered, and to have you again, nothing could have been greater in all time, in all the universe." They were now so happy, and had new grandchildren to make their last years happy ones.There had been those on Naboo who did not believe the miracle until they had Padme's coffin exhumed and it was shown to be empty. Now her story was a legend that would last for all time on Naboo, and througout the galaxy. Her untimely death, her resurrection, and her return to rise liberty from the ashes. This tale was going down in history, recorded by the Whills, and something children would learn of for as long as the suns allowed the planets to survive, and the force was with them all. While it was awesome on a grand scale as well, the personal part was just as special to her family had she not had any other signifcance. She was their precious Padme, and she was back again. No one could stop looking at her, touching her, and embracing her.
Just then, Anakin walked up holding a frilly white and pink bundle. "Here she is, meet Anamae Shmi Skywalker!"
Everyone ran up and peered into the adorable little face as Anakin peeled the lace back from her face. She wiggled and cooed, but did not cry. She looked up at them, and they could have sworn they saw a smile.
"She's got your eyes, Anakin, and your hair, it appears." Sola said. "But those are Padme's lips, and her nose. I'd know them anywhere. I remember holding my baby sister and seeing her lay just in that pose."
"She's so beautiful!" Everyone agreed, not only beautiful in looks, but beautiful to be alive, created by parents who were themselves miracles. After all the family was shown to the rooms they'd be staying in, and put everything away except for their gifts for the bride and groom, they all got dressed and headed for the Jedi temple for the wedding.
Sola quietly handed a special bag to her youngest daughter and whispered for her to give it to cousin Leia in her dressing area as soon as they arrived.
Taking a speeder large enough to carry everyone, and covered as not to muss their hair, Anakin did the flying and the family members all left for the wedding. Even Threepio and R2 came along, they wouldn't miss this special moment. The parking area was full of familiar vehicles, they saw that Luke, Lando, and Wedge were already there. Han had wanted Luke to be best man, but when Leia said she'd kissed her brother 2 too many times already, he had to choose between Lando and Chewy. Despite the comment she had made once that she'd rather kiss a wookiee than Han, she really didn't want to, so Lando got the job.
The family came in through a special entrance. Padme's family took their seats in a place of honor, except for one cousin who took her special package to Leia, and the children who were to walk in front of the procession. No one but she and her mother Sola knew what was inside. Of course, Han didn't get to see her that day, even though he bemoaned what a foolish superstition from another planet that tradition was. By now, Han had learned not to doubt or question anything mystical after all his experiences had completely changed his position on belief in the force!
In Anakin's old chamber at the Jedi temple, the guys were spiffing themselves up in front of a mirror. Han stared at his reflection, and his posh outfit, and couldn't believe this was happening. He spoke to himself, but also to his friends, when he said "So, do you think a princess, and a guy like me?" He looked over at Luke, who was already about to laugh. "Well, here we go." He said, and everyone walked out, hearts pounding. The same feelings were stirring in Leia, as she came out of her dressing area. Padme kissed her one more time, then went back to her seat. By the time Leia was ready to come out, Han and Lando were already standing waiting for her next to the Shaman. Luke sat down next to his mother, and squeezed her hand. They smiled at each other, and Luke winked at Han and Lando.
Finally the music started, and Leia emerged in the doorway. Anakin, who was standing there waiting to escort her down the aisle, was so stunned and moved by the sight of her that his heart accelerated, his eyes started to water and a lump came in his throat. There she was, in the same lace dress and veil Padme had worn at their secret wedding on Naboo many years ago. Those images, and many memories good and bad, flooded his mind. So that was what the secret in the bag was! After all the fuss Leia had made over picking out a dress, there was none she would rather have worn on that day. She walked up to her father, and slid her arm in his. As she looked up at him, he could see her damp, glowing and a tight but heartfelt smile through the lace. He returned her gaze and expression of love. For the first time he really completely felt like she was his daughter, and she had accepted him and loved him as her father. His emotions were getting the best of him again, as they always had.
With one more loving look, he turned forward, and they walked down the aisle together. They looked at every face the crowd as they passed, Jedi, Senators, friends and family, and even the droids, they couldn't help but think of those who were not there. Anakin thought of his mother, Leia thought of her much loved adoptive parents. Han was also thinking of his parents, who had been gone for many years, and they all thought of many friends they had lost along the way in the rebellion. Surely, somehow, somewhere in the force, they must all know, and send their love. Anakin thought of the force spirits, and sensed they were there, though not materialized. As they passed the family, there were more warm glances and tears of joy. When Padme saw her old wedding dress, she was so surprised and overcome she almost stood up, her mouth half open, her eyes very wide, and soon filled with so many tears she had to blink them away to clear her view of her daughter. Leia smiled through the lace, and Anakin gave a special look and smile to Padme, which she returned. All the memories of their own wedding replayed in their minds. They were not only moved by that, but that their daughter had chosen to wear the same dress as a tribute. How sly Sola was, she thought, and how sweet! Padme gave one more loving glance at Leia and Anakin, which they responded to with their own, then they moved on. The energy of love was so thick in the room you didn't have to have the force to feel it. When they had reached the front, Anakin let go of Leia's arm, and she joined her hands with Han's as they faced each
other. The Shaman began to speak.
****************
The reception at the Skywalker home that evening was one of happiness and enjoyment for all the guests. Leia danced with Lando, Luke, and Anakin, and saved her last dance for Han. It continued into the night, and as the stars came out, the happy couple emerged from another room dressed in their traveling clothes.
"Leia, I want to tell you one more time how special it was for me, and your father, to see you in that dress." Padme told her.
"I wouldn't have had it any other way." Leia smiled back at her.
"Before you go, could you tell me where you put it?"
"I hung it in Anamae's closet. She should be the next to wear it."
"That's so sweet, darling. And then, your own daughter."
"If I have a daughter." She blushed.
"You will, and a son, too, you're going to have twins, a boy and a girl, just like me. Your father has forseen this."
"I will not doubt his visions, ever again." Han laughed.
"You won't have to." Anakin said as he walked up. "I don't have them anymore. I had that one when I first met up with you and Leia when you took us from Tatooine. After what happened on Naboo, I've been cured of them."
"You lost your gift?" Everyone stared at him, shocked by his revelation.
"Gift? It was a curse. It hurt me, hurt everyone, much more than it ever helped. I don't want to see the future anymore. Whatever is going to happen, I don't want to know!" He laughed out loud. "And you wouldn't believe how much better I sleep now, knowing my nightmares aren't going to come true!"
Leia looked at her parents, and Han. "So whatever the future will be, let's make it a good one, a happy one, the best one possible."
"And the force will be with us, always." Luke told her as he hugged her just as she was leaving.
In the shadows, three force spirits watched, smiled, and nodded in approval of them all.
There were many more hugs and good wishes as the newlyweds got into the Milennium Falcon and flew away to their honeymoon on several different planets. As it took off, everyone laughed, because they saw that all Han's buddies had tied noisemakers, streamers and other things to the back, that would surely end up as space junk or burn up through the atmosphere, but for now were jovial and hilarious. There was also a sign to show they were just married. As they took their leave, they found they were not leaving Coruscant without a huge sendoff. Luke, Lando, Chewy and Wedge followed them in their fighters, shooting out fireworks, spinning behind and around them, everyone in the vehicles laughing the whole time. Anakin held his own beautiful, much loved bride in his arms as they watched from their glorious scenic overlook on the balcony. As they flew higher and higher, all the vehicles' lights blended with the stars in the sky far above the glow of the city. It was a fond farewell, but not a goodbye. There had been too many goodbyes, there would be no more for the Skywalkers.
THE END!
