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It had been three years since they were visited. Three years ago since little Lucy and Alan were born. Estrella had gotten pregnant again a year before. Emery Conrad Tracy was her name. Lucy was still a little two when her sister was born. Tracy Island was calm and quiet. Virgil had been sick the day that the rest of the brothers were out. Estrella had her hands full with Emery sick as well. John and Ridley had taken the older three to the mainland. Everything was quiet. Lucille was cleaning the table when a gooey substance sat on the table, unaware of how long that had been there for, she cleaned it off, unaware of the consequences."Hey, Mum? Is everything okay?" Estrella asked her distracted mother, while she rocked her baby in her arms.Lucille smiled, looking up from the table, "I'm fine sweetheart. How's Emery feeling?""Still sick. I'm just getting her some medication." She stroked her daughter's face, warming her up."How are you feeling?"She smiled at her mother, "Worried. How about you?""I'm glad that I'm home. To my family." She stood up and smiled at her daughter and granddaughter, "Where's Virgil? Is he asleep?"Virgil stumbled into the kitchen, "Morning. Where is everyone?"Estrella laughed, looking down at her baby, "It's the afternoon." She then answered, "All on missions and on the mainland. Don't worry, Scott's got control of Thunderbird two with Gordon, Kayo and Penelope.""What about John?""Mainland with Ridley, Halley, Allie and Lucy." Estrella clarified the whereabouts.Virgil was confused, "Lucy's your kid? Why's he got your kid?""Emery's sick and Lucy was very energetic. John's suggestion."Lucille asked her second oldest, "How are you feeling?""Still sick and sore. Might need a few more days."Lucille nodded, "Rest up, okay? Get some more sleep and I'll bring you some soup."Virgil silently nodded as he made his way back to his room. Estrella watched her brother, while talking to her mother, "He'll fall asleep quicker than you think."Lucille smiled, "I know that. Both him and Scott do. Trust me. I know.""Random question, did you know about what Kyrano did?"Her face became serious, "What did he do? Did he hurt Tanusha?"She shook her head, "No, not physically. He has a secret second family. He kicked Kayo out. She's fine. We're her family now. He called her a burden."Lucille was completely speechless. Onaha was right. Neither woman wanted to be right. All she did was nod as they continued their day.
***
It was that evening when something strange hit the island. No one had realised that five of them were missing.
bam
Jeff, Lucille, Virgil, Estrella and Conrad were nowhere to be found."Holy shit. Are we in a space ship?" Estrella's eyes widened.Jeff huffed, unhappily, "Here we go again."Lucille turned to around. Was that her father? Estrella smiled as she looked around, some were dressed like how Padme, Anakin and Obi-Wan were dressed a few years back. Virgil sneezed, glaring at his father. Something was up.
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19 BBY Coruscant, a planet covered entirely of buildings, always felt cold but now after having returned from her home of Naboo, it was harder to stay.In the three years since their still mysterious trip to Earth, the war only got worse. Anakin had been knighted and became a General, had taken on a padawan and very barely convinced said padawan to stay with the Jedi Order.After Anakin refused Palpatines offer to join him, the Chancellor disappeared. Anakin, Ahsoka and Obi-Wan had found themselves searching after any and all leads relating to Palpatine, they were often gone for weeks at a time. The first of the days they were home often meant that Anakin and Padme were swept up in each other which left Ahsoka Tano and Obi-Wan, to their own devices.One night, on one of their first evenings back, all present in Senator Amidala's apartments were in bed.Ahsoka, having barely fallen asleep, awoke to a loud crash from the living room."Kriff" She swore, sitting bolt upright.She ripped off her blanket, jumping out of bed. She grabbed her lightsabers from the bed side table, igniting them and stalking out of the room in her defensive stance.The darkness of the night lit up only by the bright lpigths of the always awake Coruscant and the blue glow of her lightsabers.She made her way to the living room, finding a ship crashed on the balcony. She stood a bit straighter now, powering off her sabers. A few bumps and curses erupted from the main bedroom, Anakin running out of it his lightsaber ignited in his hand, his clothes wrinkled and hair sticking up at the back. Padme, wrapped in a robe, came up behind the two Jedi, blaster in hand."It's a ship" Ahsoka inched closer to the wreck. "Oh my-" Anakin false gasped, "I had absolutely no idea" his sarcasm radiating through the room. Padme rolled her eyes."Well it's certainly not a standard ship from our galaxy" Padme folded her arms, marching over to the wreck and helping Ahsoka pull off a sheet of metal coving the cockpit. Anakin walked over to investigate. In the pilot seat of the ship was a man, somewhat buff with dark hair spattered with blood from the crash."It's Virgin!" Anakin's face was split into a shit-eating grin.This should be fun...
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"Someone get a medical droid!" Obi-Wan called out around him. He took a glimpse at the people in the ship.Estrella was the first to crawl out with Virgil behind her. With the help of each other, they pulled out Conrad and their parents. Virgil took one look at Obi-Wan, Padme and Anakin who were all watching these events unfold. He swore, "Shit, not this again.""Language." Lucille glared at her second oldest son as her daughter help her out. She turned to Estrella, "Thanks baby."Jeff was the last one to get out. Obi-Wan was staring at Lucille in awe. His daughter was alive, "Lu?"She heard him say her nickname, looking over at her father, "Hello father."Estrella smiled, ignoring the exchange from her mother to her grandfather, "Padme. Anakin. How are you guys? Long time no see."Anakin looked over at Jeff, "You seem to be bleeding."Virgil laughed as his father wiped off a spot of blood, "Not my blood." Jeff remarked.Conrad was the one to ask, "Who's? No one else is bleeding." He then looked at his wife, "Are you?"Estrella shook her head, "I'm not bleeding." She thought for a moment, examining her body, "I'm not bleeding. That's not from me. Wait. I forgot about that.""Forgot about what?" Came from Virgil. His voice stiffened to a liken to Scott's command voice, "Forgot about what?"Estrella laughed, "I'm not pregnant, Virgil. I know that much." Virgil joined in with the laughter.Jeff was horrid, "Are you telling me that's from your thingy?"Estrella nodded, not embarrassed, "Yes, it's a period. What do you expect? The egg not to die being unfertilised and the lining of the uterus to stay the same for the rest of my life."Jeff slammed his palm into his face, "Why did I have a daughter?"Lucille groaned, "It's the circle of life.""I told your mother to say that. I'm glad it caught on." Obi-Wan smiled at his daughter. He thought she was dead. They all did.C3PO and R2D2 then entered the room, stopping at the intruders, "I recognise you! Didn't we see you three years ago?"Padme turned to Estrella, "Come on, let's get you cleaned up. I'll lend you some clothes." Offering her hand. Estrella turned to the smallest portion of her family. She would be back."Why is no one answering me?" Came from C3PO.No one answered him, Anakin turned to Virgil and Conrad, "Seems like I should offer some of my clothes. Would you two like that?" The three then left Obi-Wan with Jeff and Lucille.Lucille stepped out and hugged her father, leaving Jeff in shock. Obi-Wan kissed her on the forehead, "My daughter, how are you alive? I was told you had died."She nodded, "About that. I survived the avalanche. I survived the fall. I was in a coma for about a decade."Jeff asked his wife, "What is going on?""Jeff, your wife is my daughter. Your best friend is my son.""Shit. I've torn hell on myself haven't I?"Lucille nodded, walking back to her husband, caressing his face, "You very much have, darling." Padme pulled some of her more simple clothes from their hangers, eventually settling on a loose gown. Estrella fidgeted, switching her weight from foot to foot."You can use my 'fresher if you want" Padme said as she turned to her friend, the gown folded neatly in her arms.Estrella nodded, "Thank you, Padme." She took the folded gown from her friend's hands. Padme then let her get changed in the bathroom connected to the room. Within a few minutes, Estrella left the bathroom in the gown that Padme had given her. Her old clothes scrupled up in her arms as she pulled her hair out of the ponytail she always had it in when on missions.Padme smiled, "You look great in these gowns."Estrella blushed, "Thanks."Padme then took the old clothes and placed them on the bed, "3PO will deal with those later." She then sat on the bed and gestured Estrella to sit next to her, "So, anything new? What's been happening?"Estrella then sat down with Padme, "My baby survived the pregnancy. Then I had another one."Padme smiled, "Congratulations." Her smile then faded to being serious, "Can I tell you a secret?""Sure, anything Padme. You know I keep a lot of secrets. You can trust me with anything." She assured her friend.Padme took a deep breath in. She hadn't summoned the courage to tell her husband the secret. Estrella was the first to know, "I'm pregnant."Estrella's face widened to match the Cheshire cat's smile. She brought her hands in to hug her, "Congrats.""Please don't tell anyone. I don't want anyone else to know."Estrella smiled, "I promise Padme. Your secret's safe with me."
***
"Why did you never tell me that he was your father and not that idiot basketball couch?" He yelled at her, once they were given a guest room in the house. Lucille had stayed quiet. Then the door closed and the two had been left alone. Jeff had gone ballistic."Jeff, please. Lee and I were told the truth after Mum left him." She begged.He shouted, "That doesn't explain anything! He's your father! Why did either of you say anything? I thought you both trusted me!!" The veins on his forehead stuck out. His face turned red."I do trust you, Jeff. I always have. Do you trust me? You've done worse than me." She had continued to beg.He screamed in her ear, "YOU LIED TO ME!!! I DON'T FUCKING TRUST YOU ANYMORE!!!!"He marched towards her. He raised his hand and slapped her, leaving a red mark on her face.She let out a squawk of pain as he kicked her knees, sending her to the ground. He reached down grabbing her face and pulling it to him."Don't you ever lie to me again" He dropped her face storming off, leaving a weeping Lucille alone.
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Padme and Obi-Wan brought multiple large dished to the table, some meat and vegetables all glazed or roasted beautifully. Two loaves of uncut bread lay on each side of the table already having been cut into by a hungry Anakin and Ahsoka.Having served themselves, they all began their food. Virgil stared at Ahsoka, the 16 year old Togruta, an odd look on his face. Anakin glared at him."Alright, what are you doing Virgin? Why are you staring at my padawan?" Anakin put his cutlery down messily, ready to fight if needed."She's just so weird. She doesn't have hair, or ears, her skin is bright orange and she has those weird facial markings too. How can I not stare at someone who looks so weird?" Virgil ranted.As Virgil went about his rant, Ahsoka curled futher into herself, as if she were trying to disappear. It was bad enough knowing that she was the only togruta in her jedi lineage and to be looked at weirdly by other padawans after being accused of a crime she never committed, being kicked out of the order, and then being allowed to return, which Anakin had to beg her to do in the first place.She was brought back from her spiral by a loud yell. Anakin had attempted to throw his knife at Virgil, barely being stopped by Padme."What the fuck is wrong with you!?" Jeff yelled, his face becoming redder than mars."No! What the fuck is wrong with you? You sexually assaulted Obi-Wan and I don't know how many times before that" He slammed his hands onto the table, glasses of water spilling.A silence filled the room.Most of the people here knew this. Hell some of them saw it, but to hear someone plainly say "You sexually assaulted Obi-Wan" seemed to come as a shock to them all.Lucille slammed her knife into the table at the other side of the room, her face contorted in disgust, "You did what?" He didn't respond. He didn't say anything. She cried in a whisper, "What is wrong with you? When did you change?"A tear fell from Estrella's eyes. She looked at Virgil, as if something was wrong, before walking over to him and pulling him out of sight. She told him, "Something happened. Mum looks like she's been crying and in pain. Dad's angry and seems abusive. What do we do?"She had noticed that immediately. Her parents were acting different. Virgil looked at her, "We should stick with Mum. She needs us. Dad can go fuck himself. After all he's done."Estrella nodded, looking at her mother, "Let her stay in your room. It's either that or throw Dad off of a cliff or lock him in a cell." Her eyes moved back to Virgil, "Do you think Padme and Anakin would have a cell?"He laughed, "I hope they do, but that wouldn't change anything. It didn't do anything for the Hood. It won't do anything to Dad."Estrella smiled, "Please stop staring at Ahsoka.""Sorry, I didn't know I was doing anything wrong." He apologised."Like Scott with that gardener and the sinkhole."Virgil frowned, "I was really proud of that topiary."Estrella smirked, "I know. Now, let's go eat dinner." The dining room was filled with tension. C-3PO had cleaned up the spillage and R2-D2 attempted to lighten the mood.Ahsoka tried to meditate like she was trained, to relax and think within. Anakin sighed and attempted to calm himself."Oh! Anakin, I have a semi-emergent senate meeting tomorrow and Bail expects that it'll go on for a lot longer than usual so I probably won't be home until late"Padme was going to enjoy going to Senate meetings whilst she could. Once her pregnancy began to become obvious she would have to stay home more, maybe even for months. Of course having to stay inside with minimal outside contact was not a fun prospect, it was more concerning to her that she would have to miss meetings with the Senate. Bail would update her of course but it just wouldn't be the same."Alright." Anakin replied, tone flat.Across the table Virgil was distracted, he had a carrot like vegetable speared on his fork and was holding it up to his eyes, switching between staring at Ashoka and the carrot.Estrella saw this and gave Conrad a look, a silent do something!. Conrad nudged him, slightly frightened of the repurcussions of not doing as he was told."Virgil you have to stop whatever you are doing," he whispered, "If it's about the girl again then Anakin would probably kick us out!" "It's not my fault she looks like a carrot Conrad! What would you do if she looked like one of your vegetables!"
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Screams filled the room.
Padme, face contorted in agonizing pain, tears flowing down her face.
Obi-Wan and Ahsoka stood next to her, ecouraging her, telling her to keep fighting, she'd be alright, they would fix this.
They were in some form of medical bay, on a ship that seemed far from well equipped to handle this.
Feelings of guilt and sadness filled the scene.
Two smaller cries erupted moments later.
He could feel her life force being drained, siphoned off to someplace else.
She stopped breathing. Ashoka collapsed onto the floor in sobs and Obi-Wan stood there holding the children.
Anakin sat bolt upright, drenched in sweat. He glanced around the room. It wasn't the cold room filled with death from his dreams but warm and comfortable.He glanced at his wife beside him, her gorgeous hair surrounding her like a halo, she looked like an angel. His angel.He threw on his robe, mindful of the others staying in the apartments and made his way out to the kitchen. He just needed water and he'd be fine.He grabbed a glass on his way to the kitchen, nearly dropping it from the violent shake in his hands. Once he filled the glass, he turned and leaned on the bench.He took a long sip.Estrella appeared in front of him as he lowered the glass. He nearly screamed."Where the hell did you come from?" he whispered."Earth""haha. You are a terrifying little woman" He placed his glass in the sink and folded his arms at her."You're violently shaking! Are you alright?" She asked, face dropping to concern.Anakin nodded, "Yes, everything's fine. What are you even doing up?""I heard footsteps walking around the halls. I got worried." She explained, before asking him, "Did you have a bad dream or something? Those aren't real, by the way." She assured him.She had received a silent nod, "I know they aren't usually but it was so real it felt like a force vision! I can't shake it out of me.""What was the nightmare on?" She asked him, looking to help him get over whatever he had seen."Padme. She was pregnant and lost her life after giving birth." He answered her, not looking at her in the face. "I've been having them nearly every night"Estrella stiffened her body, "That won't happen. Padme's strong. So are you. No one will die.""It was a Force vision. I know it was. The Force sometimes gives it users visions about the future and they feel far more real than any nightmare" He rubbed his face, trying to remove non-existant grime and tears, "Maybe I should tell Master Yoda or something.""Master Yoda?" Estrella raised an eyebrow."He's a Jedi Grand Master and a friend." Anakin crossed his arms, "I'll meet with him the day after tomorrow""Why the day after tomorrow?" "It's a war and we're the military leaders. Yoda is currently overseeing the creation of the final clonetroopers. By the way Obi-Wan and I are Generals and Ahsoka is a commander.""Isn't she like 16?" Estrella's face contorted into a look of pure concern. Anakin shrugged."Never too young to learn leadership" He walked off to his room leaving behind an incredibly concerned Estrella.
***
Virgil laid in his mother's arms like he did as a little toddler. Before his younger brothers and sister even existed. She ran her fingers through his hair as he cuddled up next to her chest, watching her tense breaths calm. Even being a mother of six, her chest stay flat and tiny. He had always questioned how three babies fit in her stomach at one point.The room only had one bed. It was a double bed that the Virgil didn't mind sharing with his mother. She needed to rest. She needed calmness. He looked up at her face. The red mark still showed from dinner. She stared up at the ceiling, her eyes shifting slightly. She was awake. Why hadn't she gone to sleep?"Mum, are you okay?" He asked her, sitting up in his place.She nodded, looking at him, "I'm fine, baby. I'm fine.""It's fine not to be fine. What did Dad do to you?" He asked her.She stroked his face, squishing his cheeks as if he was still a little boy. To her, he was still the little eager boy she had watched grow up. She confined, "The same thing my father did to me. It was in anger. It always has been.""What did your father do to you?""Virgil-" She tried to stop him."Mum, no. Sorry, I didn't mean that. Was it the same as what Dad did to Estrella a few years ago? She could barely walk. Conrad had to carry her to Thunderbird two so we all saw Alan. She recovered quickly and walked in to the hospital. Which was a good sign." He explained, finally letting her have a word in."Virgil, sweetheart. What my father did to me was worse. What Jeff did to both your sister and I almost matches that. Thank god she hasn't been raped. I would have killed your father if she had."Virgil put his hand up, "Mum, she has been. Not by Dad, though. Ask her about it, but not now. Once all of this is over."Lucille nodded, horror deep inside of her, she kissed Virgil's forehead, "Please keep your thoughts and opinions about people to yourself.""What do you mean?""At dinner. To Ahsoka. It not appropriate."Virgil agreed, "Fine. Get some sleep, Mum. I hope you feel better.""I love you, my sweet boy." She smiled, giving him one last kiss on the forehead."Love you, Mum." He smiled before the two fell asleep.
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Breakfast the next morning was almost silent. Obi-Wan had checked in on his daughter and had his arm around her as they walked into the kitchen. He sat down, then she sat next to him. Breakfast had already been served and the rest of the group, apart from Padme who was already left, were sitting down. Lucille had kissed Virgil and Estrella on the head, while putting her hand on his shoulder. Jeff then sat down on the other side of Obi-Wan. He didn't address his wife. He didn't speak to her. He completely ignored her. Putting his hand on Obi-Wan's knee and running it above to his lower body. Obi-Wan froze. He turned to his daughter and whispered, "Lu, get that idiot man that you once loved off of me."She silently nodded, getting up. She walked over to Jeff and handed him her rings. She had three on. Her engagement, her wedding rings and the one he had gifted to her after Alan was born. He took his hand off of Obi-Wan and grabbed the rings, "Here. I'm done with your silly little shit. Don't you dare try anything.""What do you want me to do with them?" He asked her, dumbfounded."Whatever the hell you want. I'm done with all your shit. You need to grow up." She sat back down in her place. Her eyes met his. She spoke in a lower tone, "I really did love you." Before turning away to continue eating her breakfast.Obi-Wan put his arm around his daughter, "You really didn't have to do that.""I did.""What about everything we've built together, Luce? What happens to that?" Jeff argued with her.She smirked, "We have a prenup that handles all of that.""Which was made before Tracy Industries and International Rescue." He reminded her.She knew he was wrong. Her wellbeing was safe. She had everything handled. Ahsoka, Anakin and Obi-Wan sat in the gardens of the Jedi Temple, enjoying some rare time off from fighting. Yoda claimed they were working too hard, that they were making too many mistakes and needed rest. They disagreed, said that they would be far too ansty to rest. The only reason they agreed is because Rex promised to hold down the fort and that he'd check in every day and tell them what had been happening.Younglings, who were encouraged to explore the Temple in their breaks, were running aroung playing some form of game. This bunch of younglings were particularly rowdy, around the age of 9 years old. Chaos broke out when a Twi'lek youngling tripped over the foot of a humanoid youngling. The twi'lek yelling out "Kriff You!" after regaining her senses."I'm going over there" Obi-Wan sighed as he stood, making his was over to have a work with the children and find their instructor."Master, I have a question" Ahsoka who was laying on the ground, sat up slightly to look at him."What is it Snips?""Why has Obi-Wan been acting so odd lately and on top of that what happened at breakfast this morning?" She sat up fully now, folding her arms.Anakin sighed, looking over his shoulder to where Obi-Wan was with the younglings. He had them practicing their saber forms whilst they waited for their instructor, he looked back to Ahsoka."Jeff Tracy is a horrible man. Obi-Wan was on a mission a few years ago when they met. They had a relationship of sorts. They eventually stopped seeing each other and bumped into each other again three years ago when we crash landed on the Tracy's island. During our time there Jeff regularly attempted to sexually assualt Obi-Wan and at one point did. At breakfast this morning, Jeff had his hand in Obi-Wans lap. That's about it" Anakin was glad that Ahsoka had asked him whilst Obi-Wan was busy. It wouldn't have been the best topic for him and he probably would've spent the rest of the day meditating in his quarters.Ahsoka was silent. Her stomach twisted into a sickly knot as she tried not to vomit at the thought of what she had just been told. Obi-Wan sat unexpectedly between the two of them."Ahsoka? Are you alright?" He placed a hand on her shoulder in concern. She cleared her throat."Yes Master. I'm perfectly fine" She layed back down, clamping her eyes closed against the sun. The knot wouldn't go away.
***
Conrad sat on the side of their bed, hands touching his wife's knees as he rested his bed in between them. She had hidden herself away to comprehend what her parents had done. When her mother left her father. He watched a tear fall from her face, "You okay?"She nodded, fidgeting with her hands, "I'm fine, Conrad.""Your face says otherwise." He responded, wiping away the tears from her eyes. He then placed a gentle kiss in her hair, "How are you feeling? After what had happened-""It has nothing to do with that. Lucy and Emery. I miss our babies."He brought her into an embrace, "I'm sure they're being taken care of. Think of this as a vacation away from them.""This will hardly be a vacation, but I like your thinking." She kissed him."Hardly?"She smiled, "Mum left Dad. He'll be worse than ever. Angry, abusive. Over everyone else. I'm worried about Mum and Virg.""You have every right to be. After that and yesterday. Don't pick fight with him. Please." He begged of her.She agreed, "Shouldn't be too hard." He then gave her a kiss as a thank you.
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He walked with Palpatine somehwat unsure if he should tell him."What is wrong Anakin? You seem bothered by something." His voice was low and sort of creepy."Nothing." Palpatine smiled at him."Have I ever told you the story of Darth Plageous? He was so powerful that he could prevent death." Anakin had a sense that Palpatine knew what was on his mind."He was a Sith lord?""Sometimes you have to tap into the darkside to have what you want"Anakin stopped in his tracks. The idea of being able to stop others from death filled him with intrigue. He would be able to save Padme!"You're a force user?!" Anakins mind went as fast as hyperspeed trying to figure out the logistics of it all."You won't tell anyone will you? It's not exactly public knowledge" Anakin nodded in agreement. He felt anxious and unsettled and desperate. A mix of emotions he knew were dangerous."Could you tell me how to do that? To save people." He looked to the Senator, hope filling him."You are not quite ready yet. I will teach you in time" Palpatine had chuckled at his eagerness.
Wait what would Palpatine know about the darkside? Was he using it?! No. Palpatine was a trusted friend. it wasn't possible for him to use the darkside.
Was it?
He sat across from Yoda, the small creature was wise and would surely know how to combat the dreams."What is wrong? Young Skywalker" he rested his hands on his cane."I've been having dreams. I think they are force visions and they are horrible" Anakin worried that Yoda was going to make him explain his dreams in depth which would mean Yoda would figure out the secret."About whom are your dreams? What happens in them, tell me" His small green face grew concerned."They are about a friend of mine dying. I'm worried, Master. I've had dreams like these before about my mother and she died when I tried to help her. What if it is like that again? What if I can't help?" He pushed his hair back from his face, his robes feeling too tight and weird on his body."Worry not, young one. Many things, these dreams can mean. Showing you what happens if you continue on this course, and testing your fear, the Force may be."Anakin sat for a moment, taking in these words. He had been ready to do anything to save Padme, even to tap into the darkside. But at what cost?Would Padme die anyway? Would Obi-Wan have to finish Ahsoka's training? Ahsoka had been inconsolably crying on the floor in his dream and he wasn't there. Why wasn't he there? What had happened?"Master. I have recently heard rumours about the ability to stop someones death using the force. Is that true?" He looked up from his focus point on the ground."True, the rumors are. However, using the dark side, it requires. A similar ability, there is—Force Healing. Tricky to teach and incredible patience, it requires. Of this rumor, where did you hear?" Yoda looked more concerned by the minute."From Senator Palpatine. He told me of Darth Plageous. That Plageous was able to stop death""Told you this, Senator Palpatine did? Concerning that is. Of the Force, What does he know?" Yoda clasped his hands together around his cane, making his way to the window next to them.Despite his promise to Palpatine, he spoke, "He implied that he uses the darkside"Yoda looked violently back to Anakin at this."The dark side? My that is concerning. Have someone look into it, I will. Return to your rest, you should." Yoda limped out of the room, leaving Anakin behind.His thoughts raced once again.He needed to tell Padme about his dreams.
***
Estrella found Padme in the main area after she had arrived back home. Estrella was puffing, "Padme. You need to tell Anakin. Right now.""What do you mean?" She was confused. Estrella was out of breath and practically begging her to tell Anakin about her pregnancy."Please, just tell him." She continued to beg.It came to dinner, when Padme was going to tell everyone the grand old news. Anakin was serving up everyone a delicious meal, with carrots. Obi-Wan had stuck close to his daughter, who was staying well away from Jeff, soon-to-be ex husband. She had sat down next to Estrella and Conrad, turning to her daughter, "Virgil said something about a rape. Do you want to talk about it?"She shook her head, "No, not now. I promise I will. Later."Virgil then walked into the room, looking at the carrots that were sat nearby, "Why? This is going to spark something up again."Estrella glared at her brother, "You shouldn't have said anything.""About what?" He was confuzzled."The Professor."Virgil joked, "The one from the temple that trapped Gordon and Penelope and was only in it for the riches?"Conrad gave his brother in-law a glare, "This isn't a joke. You had no right to say anything.""Alright, no one argue. Virgil, Estrella. Please both of you behave. Don't bicker like little kids." Lucille stood in the way of her children.Virgil glared at his sister, "You should tell Mum about what you did in college. The professor. What Scott saw. The baby-ies. The miscarriage. The one drunken night when you got married IN VEGAS-"Conrad attempted to shut Virgil down as he watched his wife shrink at each word, "That's enough Virgil!""The secrets you kept. The baby that you killed before you could finally have a baby. The abuse you endured. You're not strong. You're weak."Conrad slammed his fists on the table, growling at Virgil, "SHUT UP! YOU'VE SAID YOUR PIECE!"Lucille walked over to her son, "What's gotten into you? Why are you mad all of a sudden?""What? She glared at me first!" He defended himself."Maybe, but you need to stop it. Your older than her. You're the one acting like a baby in this situation." She was disappointed in him.Obi-Wan then called out to them, "Lu, Virgil, dinner."Virgil was confused, "Only family use that nickname on you. I know that, Mum. Aunty Val never called you that."Lucille looked back at her son, "Obi-Wan is my father. My biological one. The man that I usually refer to as my father is not him though. That's why your father got abusive last night."A silence filled the room."Look. We'll talk about this later. Tonight is really important for Padme, we can't ruin this for her" Estrella turned on her heel and made her way to the table. She glanced back at them, her stare baring into them until they realised they had no choice but to sit.Soon enough Anakin, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan joined and they began dinner."Sooo," Estrella dragged out the word in an attempt to keep things casual, "Anyone got any news?" She pointedly glanced at Padme."Yes actually. Something wonderful has happened" She smiled to herself."Really?! What?" Anakin looked slightly afraid, like he knew what she was going to say."Ani," She inhaled deeply. Now looking straight at him, "I'm pregnant"He lost his breath for a second."I- w- Well that's wonderful"
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Ahsoka sat, slack jawed at Padme's news."No. Way." Ahsoka squealed, "That's incredible!"Obi-Wan stroked his beard, "Congratulations. I thought you would have waited until the war was over to settle down." he glanced over to Anakin."You know this isn't going to go well if people find out" Anakin just shook his head.Having a delayed reaction, Jeff had spit out his glass of water, grunting, "You'll regret it. Babies are the worst, so are the pregnant women." He then glared at his wife.Estrella stood up immediately, about to attack her father, when Conrad caught her hand. She looked down at him. He pulled her back down the seat, silencing her, "Don't turn this into a fight. Please." He then placed his hand on her leg, over her own hand. He tightened his grip.Lucille turned to Padme, "Congratulations. You must be overjoyed."Padme smiled. Virgil had kept his reaction to himself. He was already done with pregnant women. He always reacted wrong. This time he decided not to react. He just sat there in silence, watching his sister get defence at their father about Padme's pregnancy.Joy filled the room, depsite Jeff going off to sulk in a corner. Anakin's immediate stress over his pregnant wife was clear. He stared at her, watching everything she did."You know Anakin, she isn't made of glass just because she's pregnant" Conrad laughed to himself, typical reaction."But what if I miss something, or she's hurt or- or-""She'll be fine. C-3PO stays here doesn't he? I think he'd know if something happens. Relax." He smiledEstrella piped up, "Reminds me of you Conrad"Conrad looked at his wife in complete jokingly offence, "What do you mean? How does that remind you of me?"Estrella reminded him, "You wouldn't even let me go to the bathroom alone, any of the times.""Our first was killed in a cell. Your hormones were out of whack. You needed me." Conrad looked into her eyes. He paid no attention to his surroundings. He noticed her shift out of reality.
She was panicking. That night she had. The nightmare that had evolved from the Professor. Her stomach was growing. Her brothers would realise. Her father would realise. Everyone she had known, would know about the dirty little secret she has. The embarrassment of her life. How likely would they all believe her? How likely would Professor Harold lie and accuse her of the one who was lying?
She ended up alone. Full of negative emotions. None that would help. Panic. Fear. Sadness. Anger. Hurt. Not one would help her.
Scott had been there for her. He was there for her from the beginning. He became more protective after each disaster that had happened to her. Somehow his overprotectiveness wasn't helping. It had helped, but that was only temporary.
She stormed out, walking through the halls. Tears bursting as she rubbed them red. She was in pain. Conrad was behind her. He had followed, guilty.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" She screamed in agony, as a gun was pointed at her new baby's head. Her face was covered in blood and sweat. Her baby slept softly in her arms. She hadn't even had an hour with her baby. Her sweet little baby.
The Hood smiled, "Only what's right." He pulled the trigger onto the infant child. Estrella cried in pain before blacking out.
She shook off her pain. Walking to her room, she sped up her pace. Walking faster and faster.
She was rocking herself around in her own room. Hands linking her knees to her chest as her mind filtered through every bad experience. Her pregnancy could join that. This new baby could be her chance to have a family of her own. Conrad loved her. It was plain old obvious. She loved Conrad. Anyone could see that. He sat next in front of her. Conrad put his hands over hers. She looked up at him, as he spoke, "You okay?"
"Remind me. How do I look?"
"Like shit. That doesn't matter." Conrad assured her, before suggesting, "Come on, let's get you cleaned up."
Estrella reached her room, closing the door behind her. Angrily, sitting on her bed.
"Conrad. Just listen to me." She firmly put her fist on the table. The two were alone in the kitchen. Conrad was sitting down, feeding little Lucy.
He looked up at her in surprise, "What is going on with you?"
"I'm pregnant. That's what's going on with me." She dropped to the ground, hiding behind the dining room table. Conrad looked at his oldest daughter, cooing at her for a brief moment, before joining her on the floor.
"What are we going to do? Lucy'll be a big sister."
She looked at him, tears falling, "We have one miracle. What if we fail to have another."
He smiled, "We won't. I'll be here for you. We all will be."
She reached her quarters and locked the door. She curled up at the back of the door. Conrad slammed his fist on the other side of the door, concerned. Virgil ran in behind him, "She lock herself in again?"Conrad nodded, stepping back. He allowed Virgil to knock on the door, before suggesting, "We need to get the door open.""I'm not as strong as her. We need a key." Virgil thought. He looked around the hall, "We could jam it?""Virgil, we are not going to jam it. We could trap her in there."He raised his eyebrow, "What did you do?"Conrad was confused, "Nothing. You've done way worse, since we landed here. What if it's your fault?" He blamed his brother in-law.Virgil felt offended by the accusation, "It is not my fault. She's YOUR wife."The door slid open. Estrella stood at the door frame. Her eye's looked to have been flooded with tears not a moment before. She stopped them, "It's neither of your faults. It's Dad's."Virgil and Conrad looked at each other. Neither man blamed her, but why the tears now.She looked at both of them. Pausing for dramatic effect, "The way he reacted to Padme's pregnancy announcement. He hates us. All of us.""You think he gave Mum a hard time when we were kids?"She shrugged, "He was barely there when she was pregnant with Alan. It was us older three handling John and Gordon whenever Grandma had to help Mum throw up. Dad was working all day everyday. Even on weekends."Virgil thought for a moment, "You think?"Estrella nodded, while Conrad was stuck, "What are you both thinking?" He looked at his wife, begging, "What are you thinking?""The way he was flirting with Obi-Wan, while his wife was sitting right there. The way he only felt guilty once. He lied about Mum's death. He beat me and Obi-Wan. He KILLED Alan. He's turned into the Hood."Virgil muttered under his breath, "Not completely." He then realised, confused. He asked his sister, "What do you mean 'he lied about Mum's death'? What happened?"She stayed silent, stepping back into the room, locking herself in there and returning to her initial state, when the men first arrived at the door, after Padme's pregnancy announcement.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
There was panic on the island.Scott was the first to realise that part of his family weren't there. He walked the halls of the villa, checking every room. He swung open the door to his middle brother's room. John and Ridley both sat up instantly. John asked his brother, still exhausted, "What do you want Scott?""Mum, Dad, Virgil, Estrella and Conrad are all gone."John was confused, "What do you mean gone? Have you checked to see any launches?"EOS chirped in, "No Thunderbirds have been launched. It appears that they disappeared at 0642."Ridley and John looked at each other. Ridley left the bed and walked through the door. Scott asked John, "Where's she going?""Lucy and Emery. What if they're all dead?"Scott shook his head, "They're not dead.""How do you know that?" Came from an angry John.Scott looked at Gordon who had just walked in, "Morning guys. Where is everyone?" He sat down next to John. Both Scott's and John's eyes shifted between themselves and Gordon. He asked again, "Where is everyone?"Kayo answered Gordon's question as she walked into the room, "It seems they've disappeared. Virgil, Estrella, Conrad and your parents are all gone.""Wait, our parents aren't here? I need to make a call." He left the table."To who Gordon?" Scott asked his prankster brother.Gordon turned around as the holocomm beeped. His face was guilty. Lady Penelope appeared, "Hello Gordon, how may I assist you?" She looked behind Gordon, "Scott, John, Kayo."Gordon swung around, "Lady Penelope, can you come to the island?"She blushed, "Gordon, I have no reason. I am a very busy woman.""Penelope, we're missing half of our team. We don't know where they are." Kayo stood up, making Penelope able to see her."I'll be there in an hour."
***
Once Penelope reached the island, John was at his father's desk with his youngest, Allie, on his lap. Halley was playing with her cousin, Lucy, in front of John. He had an eye on the three kids, while Scott and Kayo were in the circular couch area. The holoprojector was on and scans were being made. Kayo was using all her resources. Gordon was standing behind Lady Penelope. He coughed, turning their focus to the ones who entered the room. Kayo smiled, sighing in relief, "Lady Penelope, please help us?" She begged.Penelope smiled, "Anymore information on their whereabouts?"Kayo shook her head, "There is absolutely no information on their whereabouts. No signs. All scans are bringing up nothing." She looked back at the scans. Worried.Gordon nudged at Penelope's side, prompting her to suggest, "Perhaps you all deserve a break."Scott didn't think for a second, "No, Lady Penelope. We can't. Look, they're family. I can't stop. I won't stop.""It's been no use of us all just sitting here and waiting for an answer." Kayo thought aloud. Scott looked at her, slowly shaking his head.Gordon smiled as he and Lady Penelope snuck off. John turned to Scott, "I'll watch for any signs. It's no use for all of us to."Scott smiled, "Thank you John. What about the kids?""They'll be fine here." Ridley answered as she walked in. She was holding Emery who was coughing in her arms, "Anyone know what her medication was?"Scott shook his head, "No."John pulled up medication records on the holopad, "No, it's not in here. Sorry, love."Ridley sighed, she looked down at her niece, "I'll get Sally to look at her. She's getting worse.""Ridley." He got her attention. She looked up at him, "You don't have to take care of her alone."Ridley walked up to the desk, "I'm not. You're helping me. We're doing this together cause no one else is helping us. Your brothers aren't even doing shit to help out with her kids. You and I know that. I am not going to let one of their miracles die." She vented to her husband. Allie giggled in his father's arms, reaching up for his mother. She looked down at her baby, smiling. She leaned down to kiss him in the hair. As she did, the holopad beeped. Ridley stood straight.EOS spoke silently, "I have a trace of them. Searching... Calling... Contact." The call opened. A holographic form of Conrad was sitting in a bed.He looked up, in shock, "John, Ridley! How have you..?" He was speechless. Ridley moved to stand next to John, Emery still in her arms.John answered, "I don't know. Where are you guys? We've been looking for you for a day."Conrad looked off the screen. Estrella appeared into view, "A day? We've been gone for over a week." A realisation hit her, "Fuck, time dilation."Conrad and Ridley shared a response, "Time what?""It effected us in the Oort cloud. It'll effect us now. Where are you guys anyway?" John turned to his older sister.She smiled, uncomfortably, "Remember Padme and Anakin?"The two nodded. Conrad finished his wife's sentence, "We somehow managed to land at their house." The hologram cut. They were gone, before they could react.Ridley looked at John, who was worried something had happened. He was frozen. He was staring into the recently filled air of the holograms. Ridley kissed his forehead, "They'll be alright.""We can only hope."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Anakin! Ahsoka! Let's get moving. It's your week back at the temple" Obi-Wan called into his room. Master and Apprentice walked out of their rooms their canvas bags holding their few belongings."I know" Anakin sighed. Whilst the council 'didn't know' about Anakin and Padmes reltationship (despite it being the biggest open secret in the fucking galaxy) Anakin was allowed to spend a week at the Temple and a week 'else where'. This 'else where' was Padmes apartment. Ahsoka stayed wherever Anakin was staying and the council sent Obi-Wan with the two to babysit.The Tracy's sat at the dining table. Excpet Jeff, Jeff was sulking in the corner. Cut up fruit, bread, blue milk and various cereals spread across the table. Padme walked into the room with a bowl of fruit in her hand. Anakin looked up at her. Despite the various planets he'd been too, she was still the most beautiful thing he had seen. Padme placed down her bowl, Anakin dropping his bag from his shoulder. They ran, catching each other in a hug. She stood on her tip toes catching him in a gentle kiss. Obi-Wan looked down, unsure where to look."I'll see you soon, my love" Anakin whispered into her hair, "I'll make an excuse to see you sooner than next week" Padme nodded in response. Obi-Wan coughed purposely. Ahsoka spoke up."We need to leave soon master, or we'll be late" She picked up Anakins bag, ready to pass it to him.Anakin looked over to his friends. "I know" He turned back to Padme."I love you, Anakin""I love you too" Jeffs eyeroll could practically be heard from across the room. Obi-Wan grabbed the collar of Anakins robe and began dragging him out. Ahsoka threw his bag at him as the three walked out.As the three walk down the hall Anakin speaks up, "I'm pretty sure that Senator Palpatine is a Sith Lord"Ahsoka chokes "I'm sorry what.""What makes you say that Anakin?" Obi-Wan stroked his beard."I spoke with him the other day. He told me he's a force user. Said that 'Sometimes we need to use the dark side to get what we want' Basically implying that he' uses the dark side"The rest of the trip to the temple was silent, cogs turning in their heads. Having began settling in at their quaters, Master Yoda entered the room."Master Obi-Wan, Young Skywalker, Padawan Ahsoka" They all spun around."Master Yoda! How can we help you!?" Anakin watched as Yoda made his way further into the room, shutting the door behind him."A request I have for you Young Skywalker. Keep an eye on Senator Palpatine you must. If a Sith Lord he is, he may tell someone he trusts" Yoda looked into Anakins eyes, "Trust you, I do, Young Skywalker. Teach you the ways of the dark side, Senator Palpatine might, resist you must. Accept this will you?"Anakin lowered his heard for a moment, thinking. This would take him away from Ahsoka and her training. It may be easier to see Padme if he's around the senate though."Assist you, your padawan can" Yoda seemed to read his thoughts. Anakin looks over to Ahsoka, who nods."We accept""Act as his Jedi Protectors, you will. Meet him tommorow you shall" Yoda turned and left, a grim expression on his face, "May the Force be with you"The group turned back to their unpacking. The door opened again."Master Yoda? Is there something else you need?" Obi-Wan spun around, slightly annoyed now, "Estrella?! What are you here for?"Estrella smirked slightly, "I followed you, of course. I heard what that frog creature said, can I help?""Ah, you've arrived" Palpatine grinned. Ahsoka shivered, it was so creepy knowing that this man, who seemed so kind, was a sith. Anakin began walking with Palpatine, Ahsoka trailing behind, her eyes trained on Palpatine. Estrella kept her head down, walking beside Ahsoka."Am I ready to learn yet?" Anakin seemed eager but Ahsoka could tell he was acting. Palpatine chuckled."Not just yet" He smiled, leading the way to his office. Once they arrived the Jedi and Pilot stood facing Palpatines desk, whilst he settled in."I sense something troubling you Anakin.""Yes, My Padawan and her friend are also interested in learning from you, Senator" Although Anakin acted non-chalant, this was one of those small turning points in this plan. Palpatines answer would determine if Ahsoka got to join them, "May they join us?"Palpatine was silent for a second beofre spinning around and facing the three. "I don't know Anakin, the more people who know the more chance the secret gets out. Do you trust them?"Anakin nodded, "Yes, I know them very well. We all want to learn from you." "Very well then. They can join us"It started with finding out Estrella could use the force.She was taught to meditate, how to lift smaller objects and manipulate the force.Then the real stuff began."Anakin" Palpatine signaled.He raised his hand, using the force to lift 3 creatures by their necks. Anakin kept his focus, despite the disturbing sight of the choking creatures.He dropped them."Estrella"She raised her hand lifting a smaller built battle droid by it's neck and crushing it. Dropping the remains with a resounding crash."Ahsoka!"She lifted her head, taking a breath before lifing 3 of the creatures. She shut her eyes the sight too disturbing, she lost focus, the creatures falling and scampering away.Palpatine took a deep breath "Ahsoka, you need to focus. You will not get anywhere if you don't focus""Yes I know. I'm sorry""The three of you are dismissed for the evening" Palpatine sat at his desk, reading through his paperwork.Anakin led the way out of the office, Ahsoka trailing behind. The flight back to the temple was silent."Ahsoka. You need to focus. Chancellor Palpatine won't trust you if you don't focus. It's been three months for Force Sake! This isn't good enough"Ahsoka stared at him, "I'm not the chosen one Master, you are, it's a hard thing to see""The Jedi are literally functioning as kriffing a military right now, Snips. You have nearly died like 5 times since you became my padawan, you've seen worse.""Yes and it's been a traumatising few years but that's not the point. I can't pretend to enjoy hurting innocent creatures and watching them die because of me"Anakin sighed, "I'm sorry Snips. I just want this to go well. He could kill you and as well versed in combat as you are, you wouldn't be able to stop him""I know. I'll try harder"Anakin awoke after another vision. He sat up looking at the bunk above him where Ahsoka slept, her legs dangling over the edge, her book light on."Snips? What're you doing up?" Her legs retracted and were replaced by her head looking down at Anakin on his bed."Couldn't sleep. You?" "Another Vision""That's like 3 times this week!""Yeah", Anakin inhaled sharply, "I'm tempted to learn from Palpatine""What?! But he's a sith!" Ahsoka jumped down from her bunk and sat on the floor across from Anakin."I know but Master Yoda doesn't think I'm ready to learn force healing yet and If I learn from Palpatine I'll be able to save Padme" He ran his hand through his hair, nervous.Ahsoka sighed, "Master Yoda is probably waiting to teach you for a reason. He also said that your visions could be a warning, just try to enjoy this time with Padme.""Thanks Snips""Anytime Skyguy"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jeff sat down grumpily on the soft sand. Anakin sat next to him as the rest threw their towels onto the ground. Estrella took off her borrowed robes, revealing a bathing suit that took the hourglass shape. She pulled her hair into the ponytail without the use of a brush or any supports. Virgil threw off his flannel and took off his pants. The two went straight into the water, Estrella diving head first off of a ledge in the water. Virgil stopped as he waited patiently for his sister to appear above the surface. Conrad followed behind the two with Obi-Wan and Ahsoka behind them. Conrad watched his wife appear right next to him. She pushed him into the water, making a big splash.Lucille smiled from the edge, she walked towards the water, catching up to Virgil. Standing next to her second oldest son, she turned to him, "You're not going in further?""I don't know what type of marine life there is? Is it safe?"Lucille smiled, "It's fine, Virgil. It's your decision. However, it's either with us or your dad?"Virgil took one look at the sand and back at Estrella and Conrad. He answered his mother, "I'll stay here."The two of them sat in the water, Lucille laughing at her son's decision. Estrella turned to face them, "The water's nice here."Virgil asked his sister, "What's better, the water here or the coral reefs on Tracy Island?"She smirked at his question, "That's very weighted. Are you seriously comparing coral reefs to the beach?"He only nodded, attempting to make conversation."Coral reefs then. You happy?""Very, sis. Very." Virgil smiled, sarcastically."Would you two stop with the sarcasm? This is meant to be relaxing. A break, but you two just keep arguing." Came from Lucille.The two automatically apologised in unison, "Sorry Mum."She smiled, "You two never change do you?"
***
A rather pregnant Padme entered the water to just float for a minute.'OOH Lets race' Virgil screamed.Padme quirked an eyebrow, swimming race.'Alright then, lets do it.'The group in the water got in even spots on a sand bank. Obi-Wan force lifted a large stick vertically in the water.'Alright. first to get to the stick and back wins. Ready, Go!'Padme's arms worked hard, Virgil was behind her but she was still in the lead."YES PADME. KRIFFING DO IT" Anakin yelled from his spot on the towels on the sand.'You know Anakin, its just a race. you don't have to get so excited about it.""She is my wife and I will support her in every little endeavour. Just because you hate your family, doesn't mean I hate mine"Jeff rolled his eyes. getting up and kicking sand at Anakin.Anakin scowled, shaking his robes off.He had decided to wear his full jedi garb to the beach.As the race begun, Lucille swam behind them. Conrad pulled his wife closer to him. Under the water he grabbed her thigh and wrapped her legs around him. She smiled seductively as she caressed his cheeks, leaning toward his face. He whispered underneath his breath, "You know what we've never done, done it in the water."She raised her eyebrow, "What a better time than now, love." She leaned in closer, pushing him underneath the water. They were there for about a minute before they heard shouting from the shoreline.Jeff. He was yelling, "Oi! Get off of my daughter."Estrella sat up first. She glared at her father, "You can't say anything." Conrad was behind her.He caressed her cheek, kissing it, "It's okay, babe. Don't worry about it. He's just trying to get under your skin."She looked back at him, annoyed, "He ruined it. I didn't think anyone was looking."He ran his fingers through her hair, "Don't let him. I love you and want you. That's all that matters."She flung her fingers onto his back and ran them up his spine. She then leaned into his neck, kissing him back down into the water. Eventually Conrad's trunks were floating in the water. Their head's were above the water as their foreheads touched. She had looped his trunks around her feet.He then put his hand on her hair, "Hey, love. We should stop.""Here." She guided his trunks toward him, shielding him, so he could slide them on again.He smiled, "I love you.""I love you, too.""Shall we join the others."
***
"LUNCH BITCHES" Estrella called out to the others, who all came racing up to get precious food. Once the group was sitting Anakin spoke up."Really Conrad, Estrella? Sex on a public beach? I get being in love but seriously?"Virgil giggled uncharacteristically, " I suppose it's the one thing we can agree on little Ani"Estrella blushed into her hands and Conrad patted her on the back."... AW KRIFF NO. I don't agree Virgin, they can have all the public beach sex they want if it means I don't have to agree with you" Anakin yelled out.Estrella's ears turned bright red as she buried herself in a towel, Padme rolled her eyes."Really Anakin stop embarrassing them!"Ahsoka fell backwards, giggling so hard it hurt. Obi-Wan just shook his head.
***
A large sandcastle had been erected in the middle of the beach. Conrad, Padme and Estrella were finishing up the very large moat around and filling it with water.Ahsoka was standing on Anakin's shoulders, Anakin was standing on Obi-Wans shoulders, creating a wobbly towerThe very wobbly tower of Jedi wobbled even more as Ahsoka reached out to the tippy top of the sand palace placing one of those little umbrellas on top. She stood up back, admiring her work before climbing down Anakin and Obi-Wans backs. Anakin jumped off of Obi-Wan."Kriff you both. You probably could've done that without me! Used the force!" Obi-Wan rubbed his shoulders, being in immense pain after having two fully grown Jedi on his shoulders."but it was more fun this way!" Ahsoka countered."Exactly master! Who would you be to deny us fun. You-" Anakin was cut off by a flash of a man running, STRAIGHT FOR THE CASTLE."MOVE" He screamed. The man got in his reach and Anakin pushed him violently.A scream rang out as the moat splashed, and Jeff Tracy collapsed onto the ground."JEFFERSON YOU MOTHER-""SHUT THE FUCK UP YOU ~BROKE~ MY ANKLE"Estrella and Virgil dug around his foot, which was trapped in the moat. Yeah it was broken. really broken. Everyone stood back.His foot was on a 70 degree angle.Padme, Virgil and Ahsoka held each other trying hard not to vomit."Well don't just stand there HELP ME!" Jeff screamed."Sorry Jeff I don't know what I could possibly do" Lucille smirked."Oh it's alright Lucy I can fix it" Obi-Wan bent down and used the force. Jeffs foot completed its rotation, without even breaking skin.Jeff vomited."FUCK YOU""THAT IS LITERALLY OUR PROBLEM WITH YOU"Virgil stood up and walked over to his father with a bandage roll in his hands, "Here, see if this'll work." He ran it down and up his father's leg, ensuring it wouldn't even work. Though a bandage roll wasn't going to do anything with a broken bone. The group began the few repairs needed on the castle while Jeff crawled over to the side. A medical droid came wandering out to help Jeff, whilst the group enjoyed the final rays of sunshine.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Earth:
Tracy Island:"Room?""Room?"Ridley dragged John into their room, immediately slamming their lips together. John lifted her up, and used the wall to prop her up. Ridley wrapped her legs around John locking them behind him with her ankles. Just as they were about to continue a bang was heard from the doorHalley. Ridley jumped down and opened the door. Halley walked in. She looked up, "Are you making me another brother?"Ridley and John shared a look, "Halley, honey." Ridley bent down to her daughter's level, "What makes you think that?""Uncle Gordy told me that you did a special dance that made Allie and you were about to do that."John looked out through the hallway to a chuckling Gordon, "GORDON!! I SWEAR TO GOD!!! THIS IS NOT A FUNNY JOKE!!!!""Says the two who wanted some alone time." Smirking, he walked over to to his older brother.Ridley glared at Gordon, "Gordon. You don't need to send a child, that isn't even yours, into their parents room when they wanted some alone time after you wanted to do nothing to help anyone apart from your horny relationship with the ladyship.""At least I don't have kids that I have to worry about." Gordon muttered under his breath.Ridley's fists clenched. John turned to Gordon, "There is a situation going on right now and we have spent the past week trying to raise our own kids and our nieces. One of which is sick. Neither of us have had any sleep, let alone anytime to ourselves and all you have done is that. You need to stop trying to get in other's business. Do your own duties.""Raise your own kids."Ridley yelled, "THAT'S WHAT WE'VE BEEN DOING!! CAN'T YOU GIVE US A BREAK!!"Once Gordon accepted he needed to take care of the kids to. Ridley rubbed her eyes, sitting up in bed. She reached down and kissed her darling husband on his nose. His eyes fluttered open."Morning beautiful""Morning? It's dark out" Ridley laughed as John sat up, rubbing his eyes and looking outside."Seems you're right""And if it's dark out, that means everyone is asleep" Ridley quirked her brow."And that means were alone" The two looked at each other, Ridley pulled his face to hers, kissing him deeply.Ridley moved so she was on top, holding Johns wrists with on hand and reaching into his pajama pants with the other. He groaned. Ridley smiled into the kiss.She stroked him and released his hands long enough to get his pants off and reach into the drawer to get a silk ribbon and some lube. She was already mostly undressed bar underwear. John bit at her chest as she grabbed his wrists and tied them off. She leaned down to his neck kissing and nipping at as much skin as possible. She moved further down, placing her hips over his.She moved her underwear aside and sank down on him, moaning.The door opened. Lucy.Ridley scrambled a night gown on and John did the same, pulling up his pants. John turned to his niece, still in the bed, "Lucy? What are you doing up? And why are you here?""Mumma and dada said that if they weren't here and I needed someone then to come here."John and Ridley exchanged a look. Ridley then asked her niece, "What do you need?" She bent down to Lucy's height."I had a nightmare."Ridley turned to John, "I'll be back in a bit.""No, I'll go." He left the bed.Ridley looked at her husband, "Really?"He nodded, picking up his niece, "You need a break. I'll be back in a few minutes." John disappeared through the door, Lucy in his arms.He carried her through the halls of the villa, landing in the nursery where Lucy and Emery slept. Emery was in her crib, sound asleep. John put his niece down on the toddler-like bed that sat closer to the ground. He tucked her in, "Where is my Mumma and Dada?""In a galaxy far far away. Don't worry Lucy, they miss you so much and they'll get back as fast as they can." He then sat down on the side of the bed, "Do you want to tell me about your night mare?"She shook her little head, "I miss getting attention.""I know why your not getting attention. Your parents are away and your other uncles and aunts are taking advantage of the no parents being around. So it's just me and your aunty Ridley taking care of you two and your cousins. Unfortunately, there are more kids than adults to give you attention. Sorry, Lucy."At that point, Ridley was leaning against the door frame, listening in to the conversation. She knew John was right, they had been doing everything for their best friends' kids. Their goddaughters, while also taking care of their own children. John hadn't noticed his wife, standing there. He asked her to promise, "If you try and get as much sleep as you can, tomorrow, you can have extra dessert. You think you can do that?"Lucy nodded her head, excitedly, "I'm going to sleep now. You can go." She curled up in her bed, tossing the blanket over her body.John stood up and turned to face the door. He smiled at his wife, walking toward her. He put his arm over her as they walked back to the room.Ridley turned to John, "That's so sweet of you. Being truthful. She might not understand everything completely, but..."John smiled, "I get what she feels. No parents around, having siblings being a handful. She was bound to need attention.""Her baby sister's sick. All the love and affection goes towards her to make her better. When did you become such a good parent?" Ridley asked as they opened their bedroom door."Baby, you and I are doing everything we can for them." He caressed her cheek, "That includes making them feel less abandoned.""Technically-"John smiled, "I know, but that's what they think happened."Ridley looked inward to the bedroom. She then looked at John, smirking, "Now that we're alone."Ridley held her arms around Johns neck as her entered her. She rolled her hips against him causing him to drop his head to her shoulders. Slowly he continued."Faster" She commanded. He did as he was told, speeding up his movements. Ridley was just reaching between them when the door opened."h'OH! h'Oh God! h'I'm so sorry!" Parker apologised profusely covering his eyes but forgetting to leave.Ridley frustratedly yelled, "NOT AGAIN! WHAT DO YOU WANT PARKER?!""Sorry, Master John h'and Miss Ridley, h'I seem to 'ave misplaced the baby formula."Ridley sat up, covering herself with the blankets. John did the same. She asked confused, "Why do you need the baby formula?""Top shelf in the cupboard. In the kitchen." John answered. He knew they just wanted to get back to business.Parker stood still as Lady Penelope walked into view, she turned to the bed, "What on earth is going on here?" She then realised what was happening, "Well this is rather distressing." Attempting to figure a solution, "Parker, let's leave them alone.""Good idea mi'lady." Parker moved away from the room as Lady Penelope grabbed hold of the door, closing it.At that moment, Gordon ran into view, puffed, "Don't open it. They need a break.""Perfect timing Gordon." They heard as Penelope closed the door shut."Shit." He then yelled through the door, "Sorry guys."Ridley rolled her eyes, got up and put a rubber wedge to keep the door closed. She jumped back in bed and kissed her husband senseless. Tired, RIdley layed in Johns arms. They gently kissed, Ridley pulled away, humming in contentment."What do you think the others are up to?" John stared up at the ceiling."I don't know. Jeff has probably tried to kill someone though" They laughed at the joke. Oh how ironic.
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Another dark side training session.Anakin, Estrella and Ahsoka had taken the ship to Palpatines but didn't realise that they had a stowaway.The group talked amongst themselves as they walked in to Palpatines office."Ahhhh Anakin, Ahsoka, Estrella. Ready for some training?" He seemed oddly upbeat compared to usual. He dismissed the guards and shut the blinds leaving them in mostly darkness.What they didn't know was that Virgil took this as an opportunity to sneak in. He slipped in through the vents, trying desperately not to make a sound as he made his way to the nearest slots. He came up close to them, able to see his sister and those damn Jedi through the cracks. He leant forward, not realising that the vent was moving under him until he was on the floor of Palpatines office."My What do we have here?" Palpatine slinked over to him, leaning down and dragging him up to his feet."Isn't this one of your brothers Estrella?" Palpatine held him by his collar. Estrella nodded almost inconceivably."Virgil why are you here?" She whispered, why she was whispering she had no idea, it just seemed like what you do.Virgil lifted his head as much as he could, "I wanted to make sure that you're safe."She looked at him, confused, "You've never done that before. Why do you suddenly want to now?""Did you maybe also want to join us, dear boy?" Palpatine lifted him higher with the help of the force."No!" He yelled, "I would never join someone as vile and cruel as you!"Estrella, Ahsoka and Anakin stepped back as Palpatine dragged Virgil to a concealed cabinet in the office. He threw Virgil in and slammed the door."What are you doing?!" Estrella screamed. Ahsoka looked at Anakin."What do we do Master?" She whispered."Nothing Snips. We can't help him" Their eyes were stuck to the door as Palpatine ripped open the cabinet. Virgil was a statue, frozen in carbon.Estrella let out the largest and longest scream, she could possibly make. She begun to break down into tears, Ahsoka and Anakin having no clue what to do.It was a long way back to the apartment. Estrella was silent. She didn't mutter a single word, even when they reached the apartment, she didn't say anything as she fell into Conrad's arms. Realising that something was wrong, he asked his wife softly, "What's wrong? What happened?" When she didn't respond, he turned to Anakin and Ahsoka.Anakin's response was directed to the family, "Virgil is dead."Lucille gasped. She lost another baby. She lost another one of her sweet babies. Another one of her boys were gone. Estrella walked over to her mother and wrapped her arms around her mother. The two women were sobbing. Jeff, on the other hand, was annoyed at the amount of emotions pouring out of them. Conrad wiped a tear from his face. What would it be like, telling the rest of the family about Virgil dying? That another Tracy was lost during the joining of the two groups? It didn't seem right.Lucille kissed her daughter's head, "Are you okay, baby?"Estrella shook her head, "Does it look like I'm okay? I just lost a big brother. I am not okay.""I suppose that wasn't the best question to ask" Lucille though aloud for a moment, while she let her daughter rested her head on her own, crying.
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Tracy Island:
The next morning:Everything seemed normal. Scott, Kayo, Gordon and Penelope were all up early when John entered the kitchen. He was half drained of energy from the night's events. Gordon was the first one to speak, "Did you even get any sleep?"John glared at his little brother, "Does it look like I got any sleep last night?" He then addressed the room, "If you think I look drained, your not going to like Ridley." He reached for the coffee pot, only to find it empty. Putting it down in an angry grunt, he turned to the table to sit down, where the morning's breakfast was all gone. He stood up and walked to the kitchen cupboard."What are you doing?" Scott asked his little brother."Making my wife and I breakfast." He was clearly frustrated.Gordon swivelled his chair back to facing the others in the room, "Alright then."After a few minutes, Ridley walked in. Worse than John, she gave the table a smile and then turned to her husband, kissing his cheek and rubbing his shoulder, "Morning Love." She gave him a sweeter more-of-an-effort smile."Morning, how are you feeling?"Ridley looked at the table, and then back at her husband, "If we can get some time alone, I'll be feeling splendid. Without any distractions that is."John smiled, kissing her on the lips, "F A B, baby.""Is this breakfast?""This is our breakfast. There was none left."Ridley glared at the table behind her, "You know you have some selfish brothers."John nodded, not speaking."Hey what the-" A high pitched squeal came into earshot, the pitch changing becoming lower and lower."BOMB GET DOWN" They dropped as quickly as they could, the bomb slamming into the ground and exploding.Another hit and another. and then just as quickly as it began, it was over."Is that Matteo Island?" Scott asked, peering out of the window.Kayo was the first one to stand, nodding, "There goes our back up generator.""Where's the kids? Ridley turned to John, realising.John shrugged, "Upstairs. Probably still asleep.""Not anymore." Ridley ran upstairs, John following behind.Grandma Tracy counted heads as she entered the room, "Is everyone okay? Is anyone injured? Who's breakfast is that?""John was making that."Grandma Tracy nodded, "No one touch that. No one else eat that. I assume John and Ridley are checking on the kids." The room nodded. She then instructed her grandkids, "Go help out. Not all of the children are theirs. You know what, I will. Kayo, do your job. The rest of you, prepare a Thunderbird for launch. We need to head for Gran Roca."
***
Within an hour, they were at Gran Roca. John was connecting Thunderbird five to the Ranch. Halley, Lucy and Allie were all playing on the floor with Ridley helping her husband out. Grandma Tracy was taking care of little Emery. BRAINS was ensuring the house was safe, while Scott and Kayo were up in their room. Gordon and Penelope were in Gordon's room. Ridley looked down at the kids on the floor, "You think they'll remember?""Given that Alan never remembered Mum, then they won't."She breathed a sigh of relief, "Good."John turned back to face her, lifting her chin, "Lucky them.""I think your brother's are being shitty." Grandma Tracy piped up from behind. They both turned."Join the club." Came from Ridley."Just because they have no fatherly duties, doesn't mean they can't help babysit their sister's kids.""Speaking of Estrella." He sat down on the chair behind them, pulling Ridley down with him, "3 2 1 and signal sent."They waited a few seconds before, "Oh my gosh, John!" Came from the holographic version of Estrella. She wiped away her tears.John stood up, accidently kicking Ridley out of the way, "Are you okay? Why are you crying?" He asked, walking up to the screen. By that time, the rest of the family had joined.Lucy giggled at her mother being almost blue, "Mumma! Where are you? I miss you!!"She laughed, cooing at her daughter, "I'll be home soon. I miss you too.""Constella!" He said her nickname."Virgil's dead," her voice of breaking, "Sorry, Johnny.""Is Conrad there? Is Mum there?"She nodded, still breaking, "Con's here."John called out to Conrad, "Give her a hug, please. From me."Conrad nodded, holographically hugging her.Lucille appeared on the hologram."Mum it's so nice to see your face" John began walking closer to the hologram."I wish I could be there. Where are you? Whats happening?""Oh uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" Johns voice trailed off."Some bombs were dropped on Matteo Island, we decided it was safer to stay at Gran Roca for the time being" Ridley stepped in, very aware of her husbands awkwardness."We'll be keeping an eye on the Island though," John jumped in, "But for now everyone is safe at Gran Roca"Lucille sighed, "Good. Keep together and keep an eye out." She looked at her sons in the background, "You hear me. All of you need to have each other's backs. No matter what. Whatever this bomb is, keep each other safe."She turned to her daughter, patting her shoulder, "Tell them everything that happened. I'll be back." Lucille left the room.John turned his view back to his sister, "What happened?""Right now, there's a war going on."They heard a voice in the background, "Your my wife, I don't need your consent." No one said anything.Scott asked his sister, "You haven't been fighting in it, have you?"Conrad nodded, "Only in the background, she says."Scott became like a stern father figure, "You better not be. You know what happened in Bereznik. To me.""I remember. I also remember you being M.I.A and me saving you. I can handle myself."John raised his eyebrow, "Really?""Look, just don't get yourself killed.""The balcony, Dawn. Lightsabers Drawn""Your on"A door slammed violently in the background."what the fuck was that?""I'm not sure John, I'm not sure"
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Lucille stepped out of the room to breathe, only to have the breath knocked out of her once again.Jeff FUCKING Tracy kissed her. He had the fucking audacity to kiss her after everything that he had done. She shoved him off of her."I did not consent to that, asshole" She growled at him."I don't need consent you are my wife" He grabbed her, "I can do as I please"She slapped him."what the fuck""Balcony, Dawn. Lightsabers, Drawn""Your on" Her voice was dark and low."Fuck you" Jeff stalked off, slamming a door behind him.Lucille sat down for a minute, just to actually catch her breath."Lucille what happened? What was that sound?" Conrad couched down next to her."Nothing Conrad It's fine"Conrad stood straight, "I know what's happening. Please don't duel. It will destroy Estrella."Lucille stood up. She smiled at her son in-law, "Don't worry about it Conrad. Focus on yourself and your family.""I am and I know it'll destroy her. Don't let her watch you die again."Lucille picked up a lightsaber and flicked it on. Both ends illuminated. She looked back at Conrad, "I know how to use a lightsaber.""But you'll kill your husband." He emphasised. Continuing, "You're killing your own family.""Do you think Jeff was ever there? All he did was help create. He didn't do anything else. He sat in a small room and worked privately or he was in the office or long missions. My own kids were raised by myself and their grandmothers. Then also each other. The only father figure my younger kids had was Scott. I'm not killing my family. I'm letting my kids be better off without that man."Conrad nodded, walking toward the door, "Please, whatever you do, don't get yourself killed. Your family needs you."He walked into the next room, where his wife was with the holopad. Her and John were talking. He overheard, "I can tell when you two are exhausted. I can tell when you guys have tried to." She motioned the hand gestures of the coitus, "I get it, and thank you. I know I can always count on you and I promise we owe you one. Okay a lot."Conrad touched her back, "We?""Hey, WE'RE taking care of YOUR kids. While also our own. No one's even bothered to help with Lucy and Emery. You owe us everything." Came from the holographic version of Ridley. She smiled at her older twin brother, before turning to something below her, "Hey Allie, you feeling okay?"John followed her eyeline. He then looked back at his sister, "We should go. Please get home soon." He begged, before he disappeared."What's wrong?" She turned to her husband immediately."What?"She huffed, "Don't be silly. I can't read your mind the same way I can read John and Ridley's. What happened? Are you alright?""Your parents are duelling.""You mean the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 paces fire kind of duel?" She asked, confused.He looked at her weird, "What?"She frowned, "You honestly don't know me well then." Her mind drifted to a faint memory. Virgil."The duel's with lightsabers." Conrad looked directly into her eyes, not missing a beat."They're going to kill each other." She slowly realised. Until she did. Her own mother could die. Ahsoka drew back, her sabers poised. Anakin, ten paces away, held his saber tightly gripped in both hands.Ahsoka ran forward, to attack, Anakin blocked, then pushed her back causing her to cross her sabers to protect herself. Lucille walked in."I need practise." Ahsoka and Anakin stopped."What do you mean? Why?" Anakin turned off his saber, reattaching it to his belt."I'm duelling Jeff in tommorow. I need to be sure I am 100% ready" She lit up her blade, blue of the blades illumintaing her face."Double sided. I like your taste" Ahsoka smiled, looking closer at the hilt."I need to train. So-" Lucille gasped as she was attacked, she blocked them, attacking back.Ahsoka, the attacker, flipped behind her so that Lucille would be surrounded by both Master and Apprentice.Nothing but the swooshs of lightsabers were heard until they slowly, one by one powered down their sabers."I think I'm ready""Yeah if you're able to hold of this little shit for that long, you'll be fine" Anakin nudged Ahsoka, who gave him a look. Obi-Wan, preferring training alone, set up some droids to shoot at and attack him. He had obliterated them by the end, then the final opponant entered.Jeff Tracy and his smug ass face walked in, wielding a saber. He sped up jumping into an attack. Obi-Wan blocked and dodged his attacks, ending up on the floor with Jeff over him, sabers off."I've missed you baby" Jeff whispered before kissing Obi-Wan.Obi-Wan kissed him back on instinct. Jeff reached between them and groped Obi-Wan, causing a moan.Obi-Wan pulled away just long enough to say, "Jefferson Tracy you are the worst decision of my life" before he was once again pulled in to a kiss.One thing led to another and Obi-Wan and Jeff had hate sex on the training room floor.They woke up to Lucille standing above them, furious. She began shouting at the both of them, "You're both sick. This isn't right." Jeff stayed silent, pushing her against the wall. He started kissing her neck. "Get off!" She screamed at him. Kicking him in the balls, letting herself free. She then punched her (ex) husband and her own father. Your both just like him. She left the room.Walking down the halls, she stopped in front of her daughter's room. She stood at the door, watching them interact. Estrella was leaning on Conrad's stomach. Conrad was tucking her hair behind her ear, "They said their safe at Gran Roca.""Do you really believe them? It's John, he's going to try and hide the truth.""But you saw through that."She smiled, "I know." She leaned down, kissing him on the lips. After a few moments, they released, "I love you Conrad O'Bannon."He looked into her eyes and smiled, "I love you too Estrella Tracy."Lucille smiled softly and walked back to the room she shared with her son. In a way she felt alone. She felt lost without her family with her. Yes she had her daughter. But Estrella was weaker than herself. Her own daughter still needed her, but Lucille didn't know how to protect her baby. Her baby had a family of her own. She had for over a decade. She was needed, but she felt alone.123456789
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NUMBER ONE: THE CHALLENGE DEMAND SATISFACTION, IF THEY APOLOGIZE NO NEED FOR FURTHER ACTION. "Jeff, just apologise and leave the family alone. You're abusive, you're disgusting and I don't want you near me" They faced each other in the living room of Padmes apartment."No Lucille. I've done nothing wrong""Fine then"NUMBER TWO: IF THEY DON'T GRAB A FRIEND THAT'S YOUR SECOND. YOUR LIEUTENANT WHEN THERE'S RECKONING TO BE RECKONED.Most of the Tracy siblings had no idea about a duel. Lucille had told Conrad and Estrella to stay away. Obi-Wan, Anakin, Ahsoka and the droids were to be the only audience, a medical droid on standby.Lucille looked at Padme, "You're my second" Padme nodded, pulling herself to full height before walking over to behind Lucille. Obi-Wan walked forward, "Lucy please let me-""No""Obi-Wan. You're mine" Jeff called Obi-Wan over. Leaving Anakin and Ahsoka as audience.NUMBER 3: HAVE THE SECONDS MEET FACE TO FACE. NEGOTIATE A PEACE, OR NEGOTIATE A TIME AND PLACE."It's established that the duel will commence out on the balcony. Is your man still happy with that, Master Kenobi?""Yes he is, Senator"NUMBER 4: IF YOU DON'T NEGOTIATE A PEACE THAT'S ALRIGHT. TIME TO GET SOME SABERS AND A DOCTOR ON SITE. PAY HIM IN ADVANCE, TREAT HIM WITH CIVILITY, HAVE HIM TURN AROUND SO HE CAN HAVE DENIABILITY.Anakin led a medical droid into the room, having it turn around."Why are we acting like saber wounds can be healed" Ahsoka muttered under her breath.R2 beeped.C-3PO went to speak, "That was rhetorical wasn't it?" Ahsoka nodded in response.NUMBER 5: DUEL BEFORE THE SUN IS IN THE SKY. PICK A PLACE TO DIE WHERE IT'S HIGH AND DRY.The sun was still yet to rise. No one will be getting the sun in their eyes.NUMBER 6: LEAVE A NOTE FOR YOUR NEXT OF KIN, TELL 'EM WHERE YOU BEEN."My precious children," Lucille began dictating her note to Padme, who was lent over the side table, writing it all down."I don't want to die but I have little choice. If I have the chance to rid the universe of that man, then I will take it"Obi-Wan stood to the side as Jeff scrawled his own note.SEVEN: CONFESS YOUR SINS. READY FOR THE MOMENT OF ADRENALINE WHEN YOU FINALLY FACE YOUR OPPONENT.In her head, Lucille thought of all her wrong doings. There were few. She had been supportive of her family and done the best she could with what she had. She still, despite everything, asked what ever was out there (if anything) to forgive her.Jeff, despite being the smug fucker that he is, still decided to ask forgiveness. He didn't believe in anything but just in case...NUMBER EIGHT: YOUR LAST CHANCE TO NEGOTIATE. SEND IN THE SECONDS SEE IF THEY CAN SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT"Senator Amidala" "Master Kenobi""Can we agree this shit is dumb and immature?" Obi-Wan crossed his arms, trying to protect himself from whatever Padme was to say next."Sure, but Master, he needs to answer for his words" Padme held herself the way she would in the Senate. Her unborn child started kicking, horrible timing kid."But with the chance of his life we both know that's absurd!""Come on, how much damage has been done because he was abusive and ruinous" Padme glared over at Jeff, who snarled back at the mention on himself."Alright then, seems were doing this" Obi-Wan walked away, giving up.NUMBER NINE: LOOK THEM IN THE EYE AND NO HIGHER, SUMMON ALL THE COURAGE YOU REQUIRE THEN COUNT-"Stand back to back" Anakin directed, "Ahsoka count us in""one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine-"NUMBER"-TEN PACES, FIRE"Jeff and Lucy lit their sabers and began their battle.It was all too fast. Block, hit, block. Lucille got close to beating him, he had blocked her attack but she pushed harder down until her blade was just touching his shoulder."BITCH"He fought back stronger, kicking her backward. Avoiding her attacks, he got her. Handful of her shirt, dangling her right on the edge of the balcony."Whatcha gonna do now""This" She swung her saber around slicing off the arm that was holding her and leaned forward to fall onto the balcony instead off the edge.He screamed. He hit harder and harder, never tiring.Lucille couldn't hold out much longer. She had to- what what happened where m..my babies... I love Silence. Jeff had stabbed her right through the heart. There was no going back from that. She was dead.
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They heard screams from their room. Estrella bolted out of the room and to the balcony. Conrad behind her, trying to pull her back. Running to the end of the balcony, she saw her mother dead-like on the ground. She screamed, clinging onto the railings. Conrad scooped her up. His lips rested in her hair as she cried. Jeff knelt down to her level. He tried to speak to her. She screamed at him, "GET AWAY FROM ME!! YOU MURDERER!!"Jeff screamed back at her as she shrunk down, "NO!! I AM YOUR FATHER!!""Jeff, back off." Conrad demanded."YOU WILL NOT TELL ME WHAT TO DO!!" He screamed at his son in-law, about to slam his fists into Conrad's face. Before he could comprehend, he felt a hand hold his fist.She pushed him back, throwing punches and kneeing his groin. She stood above him, "DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH HIM OR ME. YOU ARE A MURDERER. YOU UNDERSTAND? YOU DO NOT LAY A FINGER ON MY FAMILY OR I WILL KILL YOU!!"She walked into the apartment and down to the place where her mother landed. Mourning, holding her mother's hands she didn't lift her head up from her mother. Conrad placed his hand on her shoulder, "This shouldn't have happened."Padme stood at Lucille's feet, "She wrote a letter for you." She felt pain within herself."Can I read it?" Estrella asked, voice breaking. Padme handed the letter.
"My precious children," Lucille began dictating her note to Padme, who was lent over the side table, writing it all down.
"I don't want to die but I have little choice. If I have the chance to rid the universe of that man, then I will take it. You mean the world to me. Watching you grow up-" Padme stopped writing. She looked up at Lucille.
"Lucille?"
She shook her head, "I want to restart."
"My sweetheart," Padme nodded, writing a new note on another piece of paper.
"If you are reading this, then your father has killed me. Please do not take revenge. Your life means everything to me. I always dreamed that I'd have a daughter as beautiful and strong as you. You have been through the worse. Without me and I know that you will get through this. You have Conrad. A man better than my own. You really have done better than I have. You have always made me proud. If I am dead, please leave your father behind. Head home to your brothers-"
Padme looked up at Lucille, "I really do hope you survive."
"Be safe, my daughter. I will look over you and your brothers. As I know you will be there for everyone you love. You always have been. For that I am grateful."
Padme inhaled sharply, "Good luck Lucille. You'll need it."
"Can I ask that I write a letter for each of my children? It's important."
Her tears soaked onto the page. Conrad's arms wrapped her body. She sunk into his arms. Both falling in rhythm toward the ground. Her mother was dead.
***
"Hey John." Conrad opened up the holopad where his brother in-law stood in front of. Conrad himself had been crying."You okay?" John asked, not missing a beat. Ridley was behind him. She stood up to look at Conrad.Conrad nodded, "I'm fine John. You shouldn't worry about me.""Conrad." Came from Ridley."Is everyone there?" John shook his head as Conrad instructed him, "Please can you get everyone?""Okay." John walked out of view.Ridley looked at Conrad, "Where's Estrella? Where's Lucy?"Conrad shook his head. He spoke only a few words to Ridley, "I'll explain once everyone's there."It didn't take long until the rest of the family stood in front of Conrad on the holographic screen. John asked, "What do you need?""Earlier this morning, your parents had a duel.""Like with guns or swords?" Gordon asked, clarifying."Lightsabers."Grandma Tracy grew worried, "What happened?""Lucy died. I'm so sorry."John asked Conrad, "Where's Estrella? How's she doing?""Not good. She's asleep now." The next day was unbearably quiet. The silence radiated throughout Padmes apartments. Ahsoka sat on the floor of her room, attempting to meditate, trying to gain some peace but just feeling Obi-Wans guilt and shame and Estrellas sorrow from down the hall.
Obi-Wan had resigned to his room after the duel, choosing to grieve as privately as possible.Estrella leaned against the counter waiting for her caf to finish brewing. Jeff walked past giving her that smug look. Anger filled her, attempting to rise out of her chest.She wanted to yell, scream, to make him listen and make him pay for what he did. But instead she held off, beggining to formulate a plan, an image of her father screaming after burning hot caf was poured on him, his face contorted into faces unimaginable. Her caf finished, she took a sip, savoring the burning feeling before swallowing. This will be fun.She slowly walked up behind where he was sitting on Padme's couch, ready for action.Unbeknownst to her another person was sneaking up behind her, two people actually. One grabbed her arms and the other grabbed the caf. She stayed quiet allowing herself to be pulled away. She turned around."Padme, Conrad? What the hell!?""Revenge isn't the answer to this Estrella it'll just make things worse" Padme, heavily pregnant, took a small sip of the caf before handing it back to Estrella.Estrella rolled her eyes, "Ever the pacifist""Well it's true," Padme breathed, attempting to stay calm, "I have been in politics for a VERY long time, Estrella. I have seen it time and time again. One person does something bad and then the other person does something back, that's how wars start. You should focus on getting home rather than revenge. Let the authorites take care of it once you're back."Conrad stepped forward, "How about we find a way for you to get your anger out elsewhere? It would be safer than poking the bear that is Jeff Tracy"Estrella crossed her arms, enjoying the feeling of the caf warming her skin, "I suppose it might work""Let's head go try and find something then" He took her hand and led her out.They tried:BOXING! Estrella broke Conrads nosePAINTING! She painted her father with a massive dick as a nose.SEWING! Nicked herself with the needle and threw it at the wall.WRITING! Writers block got the better of her and she threw the one laptop they had at the painting of Jeff.DRAWING! She drew her mother and Conrad spent half an hour consoling her"ALRIGHT. None of that has worked in the slightest" Conrad massaged the bridge of his nose, trying to think of something. Conrad and Estrella were in their room, Conrad pacing, Estrella curled up on the bed."What do you want to try, Estrella?" He waited for an answer but was met with silence, "Estrella?" He spun around looking at Estrella, who had fallen asleep. Tears silently fell down her face.She must be dreaming. Conrad leaned down, tucking her into the blanket before leaving her to rest. Sitting by her side, he curled his body around hers. Kissing her hair, he spoke in a whisper, "I remember when we were sitting at the bar in Vegas. You trusted me even though I disappeared without a trace. Honestly, I was nervous walking up to you. I thought you would hate me. I'm glad you didn't hate me. These have been the best fifteen years. Even though it's been a rough ride, it's better than being alone."He chuckled to himself, leaning his head on her hair. Conrad cuddled her, "I've always loved you. Even when we were kids. You made me feel heard. Like I didn't have to do anything alone. You helped me get away from my family. You helped me be who I am today. I owe you everything.""You know I thought it would be impossible for me to care about someone else. I will console you everyday if I have to. I have your back no matter what. You don't have to worry about our girls being abused or raped or anything like that. I love you and little Lucy and Emery more than anything else in the world. I will do anything in the world to look out for you and our little miracles. I love you too much to let you get revenge. To let you hurt more than you need to.""Baby?"He looked down at his wife, who was curled into him. She looked up at him. He smiled, "Yeah?""Were you just monologing to me?"He leaned down to her. One knee stood faced the roof, while he caressed her cheek, "Just thinking aloud. Why'd you wake up?""Imagine seeing someone you love die more than once. I saw her. I can't get that image out of my head. She died twice. I missed her so much the first time. I'm scared.""It's okay to be scared, but your not alone. I'm here for you. Anything you need. You are my number one priority."
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John had opened the holopad, expecting to see the happy faces of his family, instead there stood a tearful Conrad."Hey John"Johns concern grew, "You okay?", he asked. Ridley was behind him in a split second.Conrad nodded, "I'm fine John. You shouldn't worry about me.""Conrad." Her voice surprised John slightly, he hadn't fully realised she was there, he'd been too concerned about Conrad."Is everyone there?" John shook his head as Conrad instructed him, "Please can you get everyone?""Okay." John walked away, getting the others.Ridley looked at Conrad, "Where's Estrella? Where's Lucy?" His eyes only grew sadder."I'll explain once everyone's there." Was all that he said.John asked, "What do you need?" John had returned with the others, they had all spread out around the screen."Earlier this morning, your parents had a duel." Conrad wiped a stray tear away."Like with guns or swords?" Gordon asked, wanting more clarification. He stepped closer."Lightsabers.""What happened?" Grandma Tracy reached out instinctively, trying to comfort him, before remembering it was just a screen. "Lucy died. I'm so sorry" Silence. Not one dry eye in the room.John looked up, "Where's Estrella? How's she doing?""Not good. She's asleep now." Conrad shook his head, "It was terrible""I have to go." Conrad shut off the comms, leaving the Adult Tracy's in silence."I can't believe it" Ridley muttered, "How are we going to tell the kids?" She stepped closer to John, firmly placing her hand on his shoulder for comfort. She looked up at him as he stood frozen at the screen. All he could think about was his sister. She would be destroying herself. She was there. She had seen their mother's body. She watched Virgil die.John turned to look at Ridley, "I don't know. I just want them home. Both of them."Ridley pulled him into a hug, letting him cry. She ran her fingers through his hair. Grandma Tracy spoke, "I need to make a phone call. Scott, Gordon, could you two boys watch the kids?""Hey, we need to mourn as well." Gordon complained.Scott dragged his brother up the stairs to the room where the kids all sat. Ridley whispered to Grandma Tracy, while letting John cry, "Thank you.""I need to call Elizabeth and Lee. I'll be back in a few minutes. They won't be up there long."Ridley nodded. Grandma Tracy disappeared outside. She kissed his head and held his face to look at her, "You okay?""I'm more worried about my sister. Most of this is from her." He gestured at his emotions. She caressed his cheeks."I don't think so. You still miss her."She wiped his eyes with her thumb, "Of course I do, she was the only parent who raised us. The only reason she died, both times, was to keep us safe. She knew we all had each other. She knew we'd all stay together. She protected Estrella from the avalanche. She probably agreed to the duel to stop dad from hurting anyone else. She did her best to make sure that we all felt loved. She was the one who would let us stargaze late after bedtime. She taught Estrella and I everything we know about the universe. I have HER telescope that SHE grew up with. She gave it to us to use. We haven't changed it.""When we were twelve, I watched you and I fall apart after you lost your mum and I got abandoned. You are allowed to fall apart. I know Sally wants to as well. I know Lucy meant a lot to her as well, but you two seem to not want to let yourselves do that. Please, let yourself fall. I will catch you. You don't have to do this alone." "Elizabeth, I'm so sorry." Sally opened the holopad. She was in tears. Her own boy killed Lucy. The sweet baby girl she had met, hiding behind her mother was killed by her son. The son she had married.Elizabeth grew worried without a second of doubt, "What happened? What's wrong, Sally?""Lu's dead. I'm sorry. Jeff killed her." She was sobbing.Elizabeth was in disbelief, "I don't know what to think. She was my everything. You know that? When she died in the avalanche-""I know, Elizabeth. It was the worse thing to happen. The boys and Estrella, were so young. If you need anything, I'm just a call away. I know Lu meant more to you than anything. She did to me. I loved taking care of her. She was so sweet. All she needed to do was smile, and that alone made me happy. You should be proud of her for everything. I know I am. Even her children are impressive. I know Jeff didn't help as much as he should. We should be proud of our grandchildren, we were part of their lives. We were part of her loves."Elizabeth smiled, "Thank you for helping my baby. She loved you and Grant. Especially after Charles.""No one should have to go through that. Especially from her own father. Grant helped. I'm glad that I got to be there for her. Like another family.""Thank you Sally. Now, I need to tell Lee the news. This is going to be hard." Then Elizabeth disappeared.
***
She woke up in an unusual place. Grant was by her side, "How about some cards? Bet you haven't played a game in a long time."She smiled, "It's been a few months."Grant laughed, reaching for her hand and guiding her through the afterlife, "You and Jeff need to stop giving me grandbabies. I met your youngest a few years ago. Why the hell did you not give him the treatments?" She paused. She didn't know Jeff would forget to even mention it to their children. Grant realised, "Sorry, Luce. I just miss my family.""I miss them already." Cards were shuffled and dealt. Lucille began the game. As they played Lucille explained everything, everything that had happened with the Skywalkers and co. and Jeff, and Professor Harold Harold."So it turns out that Obi-Wan Kenobi, a Jedi master and general of the galactic republic in his galaxy, is not only my biological father but also he was fucking Jeff and once they split up, was assaulted by Jeff!" Lucille slammed a card down on the table, emphasizing her point."What?! Why has Jeff become so horrible?" Grants face contorted into the most genuine look concern and anger humanly possible."I honestly don't know. Maybe it's because because two teenagers found it an interesting premise for a plot and then wrote about it all in the span of a month, then wrote a sequel which made him somehow worse and they have no idea how he ended up being this bad.""What?""What?""Nevermind."They continued their game. After a while, "Where's Virgil?""What do you mean?" Grant asked, placing down the card. They were in a room, similar to Grant's old house. The fold out couch was out."He died a day or two ago. Shouldn't he be here?""Lu, he's not here. He must still be alive."
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Estrella woke up with Conrad still wrapped around her. She managed to free herself and walk to the kitchen, where her father and Obi-Wan were in the middle of a 'cutesy' session. She walked to get a cup of caf as Conrad placed one hand on her waist. She rested the back of her head on his shoulder for a second as he kissed her.Anakin then turned to Jeff, "By the way, Estrella tried to burn you alive with caf, yesterday."Jeff looked up, glaring at his daughter, "WHY YOU LITTLE BITCH!!" He stormed toward her, about to strangle her.She punched his stomach a few times and leaned to pour the caf on him. Conrad pulled her back, grabbing the caf and placing it on the table, before she sunk in pain. Obi-Wan walked toward Jeff and gave him a few kisses.Jeff didn't care, "Fuck you you stupid child" He spat towards Estrella."I'm literally in my 30's!""Who the fuck cares. Anyway, I have an important question to ask." Jeff's voice rang out through the apartments. Everyone was silent.Padme and Anakin glanced up from each other, staring at him. Conrad, face filled with curiosity, stepped forward slightly. Estrella stared daggers at her father, which were ignored. Ahsoka stood nearby, hands twitching to wards the sabers on her belt."Obi-Wan Kenobi," He began"Oh lord" Obi-Wan muttered."Will you do me the honor of marrying me?" He knelt down, pulling out Lucille's old ring from his pocket.Everyone looked at Jeff, astonished by the absolute fucking audacity this man had."Why the fuck would I marry you? Really Jeff why? I stayed with you, I thought I could make it better. That if you could take your anger out on me you wouldn't take it out on your family. But no. You took it out on me and them and now I'm done. I don't put up with your abuse anymore Jefferson. All of that and you just killed my daughter. I've said it before and I'll say it again. You are the single worst decision that I have ever made. Once all of this sith-shit is over I don't want you near me, or my Jedi lineage or your family, ever again."Obi-Wan turned on his heel and stalked out of the room, "Anakin, Ahsoka! Temple today!"They followed grabbing their things from their rooms, Anakin taking a short detour. He crouched beside where Padme sat, "I'll be back my love, tell threepio to let me know if anything happens" Anakin kissed her head."I will. I love you""I love you too"Estrella followed behind the Jedi.Anakin slouched in the speeder, pouting. Not only would Obi-Wan not let him fly but he couldn't see Padme and didn't have enough time to say a proper goodbye. Ahsoka sat next to him and seemingly sensed his thoughts, "The war will be over soon, Master. I know it will"Silence."We're going to be assigned to help Rex and the boys this week" Ahsoka looked at him, trying to lighten his mood a bit. It wasn't working. They, bar Obi-Wan who was waiting in the speeder, arrived, once again, in front of Palpatines office. He was inside. Speaking."I will initiate the order soon. I just need more trust from Skywalker. He will be on our side soon enough. I must go he'll be arriving soon" Palpatines foot steps were heard reaching towards the door. They rushed away from the door, pretending they hadn't heard anything. Estrella started fake chatter with Ahsoka to make it seem more believeable.Anakin decided right there and then that he would tell the council about what he'd heard as soon as he could.After training with Palpatine, Anakin, Ahsoka and Estrella ran through the temple, Obi-Wan failing to keep pace behind them. Eventually they got to the council room and stormed in.They all tried to talk over each other,"Palpatine is the sith lord""He's going to initiate some order soon!""He is trying to turn me to the dark side!""If that is true, then we'll need to prepare to fight. but first tell us more..."
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Gran Roca Ranch:Ridley woke up late. She rolled over, expecting John to be there. She felt around for him, before opening her eyes to get a better look. Her eyes glanced at the bed next to them. Her best friend's bed was still made neatly. They weren't there. She got out of the bed and stumbled down the two sets of stairs and into the kitchen where John was in the kitchen. The three kids were sitting at the dining table eating their own breakfast. Emery was in her great-grandmother's arms being fed her breakfast. John smiled as he looked up at his wife, "Morning. Thought you could use a sleep in."She walked over to him, in the kitchen and kissed him, "And what about you?""Honey, my sleep schedule was fucked before we had kids."She nudged him, "So was mine."
***
Scott knocked on the door of Gordon's room, "Do you think we're being awful brothers and Uncles?"Gordon looked up, confused as to know how his brother knew what he was thinking, "How'd you know-I was-thinking that?""Penny tell you the same thing Kayo told me?""Looks like it and yeah. We didn't even think to help. We have been selfish and taking advantage of the no Mum and Dad situation, that we didn't even realise that our own sister's kids were left behind when her and Conrad disappeared as well." Gordon agreed, while sharing his thoughts.Scott walked towards the bed, sitting down on the side, "What do we do to make it right?""Babysit.""Babysit?""All four.""All four? Gordon. That's not a good idea.""Let me finish. For one night. Let them have a date night. We handle everything here. We can do that. Grandma and Kayo and BRAINS are here as well. We'll be fine. We'll do a movie night with drinks and snacks. Then we'll put the kids to bed at a reasonable hour." Gordon had thought about it. A lot.Scott sighed, "You've never babysat for either of the twins before, have you?"Gordon shook his head, "And have you?""I raised my brothers and sister." He reminded his little brother."See. We know what we're doing." Gordon smiled, "Let's go tell them the good news." He jumped off of the bed and skipped out of the room.Scott laughed shaking his head, "Oh Gordon, what have you gotten us into?" "You guys want to babysit?" John was confused."While you two have a night to yourselves. No responsibilities. No strings attached."John and Ridley looked at each other. The group were in the living room. Ridley shrugged, "It would be nice."Scott spoke up, "Grandma would be here as well, in case anything would go wrong."Ridley turned to John, "We'd get sometime to ourselves. We could do whatever we wanted. No distractions.""Look, I know we haven't been the best of brothers recently, but could you tell the boss about this before she gets home." Scott pleaded.John inhaled sharply, "Boss? Seriously. It's not the end of the world if she screams at you.""You'd say that because your her baby brother. You can never do anything wrong in her eyes."John crossed his arms, "Seriously. We argue all the time.""In other languages. The last one, I believe was in old Greek.""Δεν είναι τόσο παλιό"
It's not that oldGordon spoke, "What are you even saying?"John huffed, "Fine. We accept."
***
Ridley smiled as she kissed John on the lips. They were standing in their bedroom. John had his hand on her cheek, Ridley's arms were around John's neck. John spoke, "What do you want to do?""I don't care. As long as I've got you. We can do anything."They both smiled at each other. John took a glimpse at the bed, "Shall we continue what we couldn't finish?"She raised an eyebrow, "I thought you'd never ask."Their kiss was gentle at first, before dissolving into passion. Ridley pulled off their shirts as they walked. Ridleys knees hit the bed and she fell onto it, pulling John with her.She flipped them over, kissing his neck. He stared at her, above him. Gorgeous. The mere sight of her turned him on. His pants got tighter with every little movement she made. From there everything was a blur, pants had come off at some point and John had a hickey blossoming on his hip for some reason.Ridley lowered herself onto him and continued an attack of kisses and bites, pausing momentarily for a breath.She practically tingled with pleasure, half collapsing onto him.They finished, deciding on their dinner. Takeaway. John and Ridley had gotten into the car, fully clothed. John was driving. Ridley hadn't kept her eyes off of John. They pulled up and got their dinner. The McDonalds drive thru wasn't that long. They ordered:
2 Happy Meals
2 Grimace Shakes
1 M&M Mcflurry
1 Hot Fudge Sundae
However, the ice cream machine was broken, so they shared the McFlurry. On the way back to the ranch, John still couldn't keep his eyes off of Ridley. He reached over to place his hand on her thigh, ignoring the road."John..." She looked out the window, they were going quite fast, really fast."Yeah Baby? You need something?" He leaned closer, going to kiss her. She pushed him back slightly."No but-" He resisted the hand on his chest, trying to get closer."You're sure" She looked out the front window, a car ahead of them, they were so close the bumpers were touching."Yes. John- JOHN LOOK OUT" He looked over, noticing the car but his foot subconsciously continued to step on the accelerator. He pulled the wheel as far to the right as he could, driving into a tree. Ridley and John, miraculously unharmed, opened the doors as best they could and climbing out with the few things they had.Silently they stood next to each other, assessing the damage. The previously clean backseat was now covered in Grimace Shakes, McFlurry and happy meal but the was far from the worst part, the front of the car was wrapped around the tree. Undrivable. John asked his wife, "You alright?"She nodded, "Yeah, but that was reckless, babe. You're lucky neither of us got injured." She stood opposite him. The car in between them.He scratched his head, "I know. We haven't done this in years. That's all.""What? Crashed a car or gone on a date?" She put her arms on the roof of the car."Any of this. We get one night to ourselves, and this is how we spend it? In our pyjamas getting fast food that's now all over the car.""What are you getting at? YOU wanted to do this. YOU'RE the one that agreed to do this. YOU wanted fast food." She emphasised.John walked around, "You did to. This was our decision."She stepped back, "How many calls have we gotten from people who have gotten into car accidents? How many were distracted? I seem to recall what Conrad said about his friends who stole his car. And the night I moved in. We went to get food and- can you remember what happened next?""We almost crashed. You were driving."" Are you seriously calling ME a terrible driver? You were driving. I was taught after that day by Parker.""We all were taught by Parker." He reminded her, then, "Parker? We can get him to pick us up.""What and leave the car here?"John nodded, "It's not like we're going to drive anywhere anymore. I'm also not cleaning that up." "Did someone call for FAB1?" Parker pulled up in the pink rolls Royce known as FAB1. He let them in.John thanked him, "Thanks Parker. We didn't mean to crash.""Nobody means to Master John. H'everyone crashes h'eventually."Ridley smiled softly, looking at John as they sat down, "This could have gone better.""I'm sorry, love. I really am.""I know, but the real question is 'What are we going to eat?' " She posed the question."Me?" John smirked. Ridley rolled her eyes, smacking him playfully."Not that I'm opposed to that idea, we need actual food" She kissed him."We have food at home" He said in between kisses."The food at home is often made by your grandmother." They pulled away laughing. Parker smiled in the front seat as Ridley and John continued their kisses.He blushed slightly, "h'If you two h'are going to do h'anything back there, be safe!" He reached into the glovebox and grabbed out a condom, throwing it back to them.The couple parted, staring at Parker."You don't want to know the things that 'ave 'appened in this car h'and believe me things 'ave 'appened."They pulled away for a second as Parker smirked. John took a deep breathe in, as he turned to face Parker, "Please do not elaborate.""h'I won't." He smirked again.Ridley leaned into John and kissed him on the lips. She then whispered, "Next time, I'm driving."Once they reached the house, thanked Parker for the rescue and went up to their bedroom. John kissed her forehead, "Maybe we should just go straight to bed.""Is that an order?"He smiled, running his fingers through her hair, "Yeah, because tomorrow, our kids are under our care again. We need to be well rested."They made their way up the stairs and into their bedroom. Ridley sat her butt on the bed and flopped herself back. John laughed as he joined her. He kissed her cheek. She looked up at him, "What was that for?""For forgiving me. I didn't mean to almost kill us. I love you.""I know. I love you also."They fell asleep not along after. They were awoken late at night with a familiar face. John was the first to wake up from his sister. She was stood over their bed, Conrad by her side. He smiled, "You're alive. Estrella? How are you here?" He went to hug her. She held onto him tighter, not making a sound.Conrad smiled, "Sorry, we took so long."John nodded, letting go of his sister, "It's not your fault.""Ridley. Wake up."She mumbled, tossing over. John sat back down on the bed, stroking her. Conrad and Estrella joined him, but sitting at their feet in the bed.Eventually she awoke, "You're back." She smiled, "How are you?"Estrella and Conrad exchanged a look. Estrella's smile faded, "Can we talk about this tomorrow? We just didn't want to scare you guys when you woke up. Thanks for taking care of Lucy and Emery. You guys really are the best."Ridley shrugged her shoulders, "If you say so."Conrad tugged at his wife, indicating they should head to bed. The four said their goodnights as John and Ridley tucked themselves back into bed and Conrad and Estrella walked over to theirs. Their bed was a single bed as the bedroom could only fit one double bed. Estrella was moving to Harvard at the time, so John was the lucky twin.Conrad and Estrella always slept in an embrace. The bed size never really mattered to them.
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He paced."It's time"He sat at his desk, beginning a broadcast across all the clones comms channels."Execute Order 66" Ahsoka was back to back with Anakin and Obi-Wan, deflecting as many blaster bolts as they could. The 501st and 212th who had loyally ran out into battle with them not an hour ago, were shooting at them and they were shooting to kill. Rex, the only one managing to refrain, was attempting to find the ship, they'd flown in on."What is happening?" Ahsoka yelled over the noise. Bolt after bolt, never ending."I don't know!""At least I trained for this!?" Ahsoka flipped landing behind one of the 212th and injuring him. She wasn't proud of it. She'd probably never get that scream of pain to leave her head, but it was that or die.Eventually, most of the team was incapacitated. Tears dripped down Ahsokas face as she leaned onto Anakin. Obi-Wan looked pained staring down at the bodies.Rex landed their ship, running out as soon as possible."We need to go" He dragged them away, pulling them onto the ship. Padme's apartment looked out on all of Coruscant. Which usually gave a great view.Today however, they looked out the window, to find carnage.Jedi and clones battling, Jedi bloodied on the ground, Clones dead. Smoke rose from the temple.Padme stepped back, desperately trying not to cry, she landed on the couch, making herself as small as possible.Estrella turned away from the window, leaving Conrad alone.Estrella sat next to her, Padme attempting to comfort her.C3PO waddled his way in. "I'm sure they're fine." Rex landed as gently as possible outside the Temple. The door wide open.They walked inside slowly, weapons drawn.It was empty, except for the bodies of Jedi. the sounds of battle rang throughout the building.Ahsoka, Anakin and Obi-Wan raced ahead, to find the sound. They found Sidious's guards, right outside the younglings training room."Palpatine!" Anakin yelled. Palpatine stood amongst the guards, spinning around to greet Anakin."Anakin my boy! The day has come!" He walked over reaching a hand out to his shoulder, "It is the day you shall join me as my apprentice""What?" "You are my most promising student after all. However first you must prove yourself to me" He stepped back, gesturing to the door behind him."The younglings?" Anakin swallowed, what is this?"Yes. They are a danger to our new empire!""They're children" Anakin lower his saber."Join me! I will make sure Padme survives! You can live life happily with your new family and protect them with the force of an empire behind you!" He placed his hands on Anakins shoulders, his head hung low.
Padme is going to die. but what if master Yoda was right and it was a warning? I can't risk it. It goes against everything I've been taught.
I need to protect my family. I need to do this.
Mom wouldn't want me to.
Padme wouldn't want me to.
I can't.
Obi-Wan watched Anakin battle himself, his eyes switching between his regular vibrant blue and a glowing yellow. Ahsoka gripped her sabers, terror filling her chest. This was new. This switching between the light and dark sides of Anakin. He is the chosen one. But will he destroy the sith or join them? Will he bring balance? Or was Qui-Gonn wrong? Ahsoka had heard the stories second hand but will it prove to be true. Anakin felt pressure, pressure in the force. Pushing from Palpatine."No""No?""I will not betray the people I love for you" He lit his saber, "So Senator?"Obi-Wan and Ahsoka sliced their way through his guard. It wasn't hard. Eventually they surrounded him.Palpatine lifted his hands, and a blast of lightening shot out. Anakin blocked with his saber but Palpatine just pushed harder. He slid back, losing grip."ANAKIN!" Ahsoka ran over adding her sabers into the mix. Resistance proved to be futile, she slid back as well. Obi-Wan stood a second watching before ultimately snapping into gear and helping block the lightening. They stopped slipping back. They began walking forward.Palpatine laughed, "You cannot defeat me!" His face sagged. His energy draining.They pushed further forward. Obi-Wan and Ahsoka sliced off his arms. Anakin kicked, shoving Palpatine to the floor, holding him down by the chest."It's over Palps. I have the high ground" He aimed his saber at the old mans throat, smirking.Palpatine laughed, before disappearing from beneath Anakins feet."What just happened?" Padme breathed deeply, attempting to not have a panic attack, watching the temple burn slowly. Her door smashed in, Palpatines security marching in. They grabbed her arms. She glanced around for Estrella or Conrad or even fucking Jeff. But no one. Until-Estrella jumped down from the high ceiling, her mothers double-bladed lightsaber in hand."Step away from the heavily pregnant senator of Naboo before I slice your head off" The guards didn't back away. She ran forward, slicing them just like she promised."C'mon we need to get out of here" Estrella grabbed her friends hand and they just after they stopped walking Padme stopped."Estrella. My water just broke"
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Anakin paced."I can't contact them. Why can't I contact them?!" Anakin pulled at his hair, Obi-wan followed his pacing trying to stop him from ripping all of his hair out."I don't know Anakin maybe lets go and FIND OUT!" Obi-Wan rubbed the bridge of his nose and sighed."Head for the apartments" Ahsoka left going over to Rex in the pilot seat. Anakin paced, and paced and paced some more. An impatient little shit, but also a nervous one. A communication came over R2, who was relaxing in a corner."Ooh oh is this on?! Master Ani?! Are you there?!" A blue threepio was hining in the middle of the ship."Yes threepio what is it?" He kept pacing."It's mistress Padme. Shes gone into labor""She WHAT!""Yes, she's been taken to her room to-" Anakin smashed the button to turn the holo off."REX FLY FASTER" Anakin rushed into the apartments as soon as they landed, it was warm and welcoming and he felt his wifes presence in the force. He didn't for a second pay attention to the fact that the Tracy's were standing around. Obi-Wan and Ahsoka slipped into look after Padme."What are you doing?" he turned to them, "Why aren't you-""She made us leave. Said we were making her stressed" Conrad sighed, "We were trying to help."Estrella had a few tears down her face, "What if she dies? What if the child dies?"Anakin turned away, "I thought you said they were just dreams" his voice was cold and angry. He marched forward. He stopped for a second in front of her bedroom door, taking a breath before pushing the door open. Padme was sprawled on the bed."You can do this Padme" Obi-Wan rested one hand on the bed, the other on her shoulder. Ahsoka stood next to him, letting Padme grip her hand. Padme screamed."Anakin?! What took you so long?!" Ahsoka looked up at him, facial expression strained from the pain of Padme's vice grip on her hand."No idea" He ignored the medical droid and rushed next to Padme."Ani? You're here?""Yes my love, I'm here." Padmes smile was cut off by her scream of pain. The medical droid came over."Her labor has progressed very quickly, it's time" The droid resumed its position, monitoring Padmes vitals.Padme's agonized screams filled the room, once they died out they were followed by a tiny little cry. Padme laughed."There is another-" The droid was cut off by a scream and a second cry."One male and one female. Twins" The droid passed child to Anakin and offered the other to Obi-Wan. Padme gazed up at her family. She smiled at them, reaching up to touch them."Luke...Leia" Padme whispered."Perfect names" Anakin kissed her head, passing her Leia. Obi-Wan passed him Luke."See Anakin. I'm alive aren't I?" She rested her head, on one of her plush pillows."I'm so so proud of you and I am so so happy" They looked down at their children
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"Let's watch a movie."The group walked into the main lounge area in the apartment. Padme and Anakin were seated on one seat on the couch. Anakin held Padme from behind while watching the show, he kissed his wife lovingly. Ahsoka was seated next to Anakin, trying to watch the screen, while (secretly) braiding Obi-Wan's hair. Obi-Wan, who had moved down in front of the couple from his original seat with his daughter to get away from Jeff, was completely oblivious to his newly created braids.Virgil was seated at the end of their couch, annoyed at everywhere he looked. Conrad was on the next couch with Estrella wrapped in his arms, leaning on his chest. Lucille sat next to them, smiling at her daughter's happy marriage. Her own husband trying to get into her pants, making her uncomfortable in her seat. At one point, Estrella released from her embrace and hugged her mother tightly. She whispered during the make out scene between Lady Belle and Dr Jack Dawkins, "Jack and Belle remind me of John and Ridley."Lucille took one look at the intense kissing as Belle shoved Jack toward the wall in her cloak. She giggled like a little child, "I can see that."
"I kissed you? You kissed me."
Lucille looked over at her daughter, who had retreated to her original position on Conrad, "Still remind you of them?"Estrella nodded, "Yup." They all laughed."WitchAndroid W-W-WitchAndroid" Little animated characters danced on the screen, one a red haired woman with magic and her husband who was made of some metal shit.
"Fear not Glamour, for I, Illusion, vow to bring you back exactly as you are!"
The red head enters a magic box. The metal man shuts the door. He swishes his wand and taps the box "Abaracadabra" he opens the box. The woman is missing. "TA TA!" His voice trails off as his wife comes out of the false back.Padme laughs. "His expression reminds me of you! A bit of a sad toddler look!"Anakin gasps, incredulous "I am not a sad toddler" He pouts."You are literally doing the face now Sky guy!"
”Hello boys.” Lady Penelope smiled as she stepped onto the screen.
Virgil turned to face his sister, “That looks like Lady Penelope.”
”Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward, at your service. Alan darling, your father’s been unexpectedly detained, and he’s asked me to pick you up, is that all right?”
“Sure beats the bus.” Fermat looked up at Alan. They both smiled.
Estrella leaped from her seat, “That is completely inaccurate. Who is that kid? Why is he named after a theorem?”“What?” Came from Conrad.Virgil pointed out, “We never sent Alan to boarding school during the time of International Rescue.” He never missed out.”“Can we just watch this stupid documentary.” Jeff spoke angrily. He hated being there. His character seemed to almost treat Alan similar to him.Estrella glared at her father as she was pulled toward her husband. Conrad caressed his wife, “Ignore him.” He kissed her hair as she leaned into his neck. He placed his head on top of her head. He wrapped his hands around hers.
”Man, I haven’t seen that much fire since that volcano in Fiji.” The movie version of Virgil spoke.
“I sound nothing like that!” He complained."And d'you know what? So was I!" The mans head tilted back, fire spurting from where his limbs were. A blond girl, stumbled away from the heat, trying to look away."WHAT IS HAPPENING!?" Virgil screamed."HOW IS SHE SO CALM? HE IS ON FIRE!" Anakin was crouched on the couch like a cat."Honestly Anakin?! It's just a show!" Obi-Wan sighed. He was too use to these dramatics.The fire dissipates, leaving a new guy in the old guys clothing. He says something about teeth."-so where was I? Oh that's right Barcelona!" He smiles, wider than a cat in a childrens book."So he's just a new person now?" Ahsoka continued her work on Obi-Wans hair."No no its the same guy he just looks different. Kinda" Conrad sighed still holding Estrella."Don't overthink it"It didn't take long for everyone to fall asleep. All who remained awake was Conrad and Lucille. Lucille had the remote, flicking through the endless list of movies and shows, finding one that she preferred. Conrad caressed his wife's hair, watching her sleep. Lucille spoke, "Thank you for taking care of her." Looking up, Conrad smiled, "We've been through everything together. We took care of each other.""You are better than my mother's husband and my own. Your girls are very lucky."
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Padme's handmaidens had come by the next morning, helping Padme move to a comfortable chair so they could change out the sheets on her bed."Anakin Skywalker""Dorme"Anakin was willing to leave Padme's care to exactly one person and that person was Dorme. She was Padme's most loyal handmaiden and would do anything for her. With both Padme's most loyal handmaiden and Padme's most loyal Jedi protector, she would be safe.Dorme finished making the large round bed, laying out the covers and adding more pillows, before gently guiding her friend back to bed.The handmaidens stepped aside, needing to take the bedding to be cleaned. The Tracy's walked in with Ahsoka and Obi-Wan.Ahsoka held Luke, she could barely help beaming with joy looking at him. Obi-Wan held Leia, he smiled the biggest he ever had."So Padme! How's it going? Being a mother and all." Estrella tilted her head in curiosity."Good actually, there's plenty of help around but I don't want to depend on others too much." She reached out to Obi-Wan for Leia. He handed her over.Jeff scoffed, "Please being a parent is difficult and tiring and not worth it. You just end up with shitty little ungreatful brats"The au-dac-i-ty of this man."Ungreatful? We got you out of the fucking Oort cloud!" Conrad nearly screamed. The little twins cried."If you are going to yell then go home" Anakin got Luke and held him close, sitting next to his wife."We can't go home. I don't want to be here anymore" Jeff groaned. The twins were calming down."How about I give you a ship, as a token of our appreciation? It's old and a bit clunky but it should do" Padme smiled up at them, Ahsoka kneeled on the bed next to her and Anakin cooing at Leia. "Fine""Now come meet the twins!" Padme brushed a hand over Leias head, brown curls already growing. Estrellas face lit up "They. Are. So. Cute!""This is Luke and this is Leia" Estrella squealed as quietly as she could."I wish I could stick around and make sure the war ends and that they're safe." Estrella wanted to reach out and touch their hair but hesitated, deciding against it."Don't worry too much, they have their Mother, Father, Uncle Obi-Wan and Aunt Ahsoka" Padme smiled.The ship landed on the balcony platform.Conrad dragged out his and Estrellas bags, mainly things they've collected over time.Estrella stood, talking to a holo of the rest of her family."So heads for leave Jeff for Anakin to deal with or tails, he comes back and we deal with him." Scott grabbed a coin out from his wallet. Flick, catch, "Tails""DAMMIT. Alright See you soon" The holo shut off.Padme and Leia, Anakin and Luke, Ahsoka and Obi-Wan walked after them. Jeff took one look at Obi-Wan and stormed inside the ship."Thank you for letting us stay, Padme" Estrella held her free hand."It's alright. You did the same for us. Go home back to your family" "See ya Padme, Leia, Luke. Anakin sometimes dreams are just dreams" Estrella smiled, she turned to Obi-Wan and nodded to him."Ahsoka. Finish your training." Estrella smiled, walking to the ship. Conrad met her at the door."Thanks for everything" He yelled out to them all before waving and heading into the ship.It was finally over.
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“Do you know how to fly it?” Conrad asked his ice as they sat in the pilot seats. Estrella had a manual in her hands, flicking through the pages. He watched her understand the controls immediately.She nodded, “I can fly anything.”Jeff grunted from behind, “You couldn’t even fly into space on your first flight.”Without even looking back or skipping a beat, she responded, “I passed out after exiting the earths atmosphere, besides I was the youngest.” She then muttered under her breath, while concentrating on launching the ship, “Until Alan.”Conrad put his hand on her shoulder, “You’ve got this. You can take us home.”“Thank you.” She smiled for the first time in a few days. Estrella leaned toward Conrad and kissed him.Jeff grunted again, “Stop it. Just stop it.”She turned around, glaring at him as he stood up, “If killing you brought them back, I wouldn’t even think about it.”Conrad pulled her back, “Hey, we’re almost home.” He pulled her into a hug, “We’re almost home.”“You’re moving out.” Her voice was stern toward her father. Conrad smirked as Jeff was in complete shock.“No, you will move out.” He ordered his daughter.She shook her head, “I own Gran Roca now. So do my brothers. You have no part in the home." She turned back to the controls as they left the galaxy at the speed of light."Ungrateful."She spun her head around, angrily, "Says the one who killed my mother.""Shut up you ungrateful bitch." He slumped in his seat.She straightened herself, "Babe, we're going to make a pit stop. I'm thinking the Oort cloud. I'm sure the zero X is still there."Conrad smiled, leaning over to her to kiss her. He placed his palm on her cheek, "Whatever you wish love." She smiled at him, with her forehead touching his."Get a room."She stormed toward her father, grabbing him and throwing him out of the cockpit. She smiled at Conrad, "Sorry. You think anyone would care if I killed him?"He walked over to her, "No, but I think you would feel better to just ignore him." He placed his hand around her waist. His other, on her cheek. He smiled at her, "When we get home, everything will be okay.""I know." She leaned in to kiss him.
***
John was the first to wake up from his sister. She was stood over their bed, Conrad by her side. He smiled, "You're alive. Estrella? How are you here?" He went to hug her. She held onto him tighter, not making a sound.Conrad smiled, "Sorry, we took so long."John nodded, letting go of his sister, "It's not your fault.""Ridley. Wake up."She mumbled, tossing over. John sat back down on the bed, stroking her. Conrad and Estrella joined him, but sitting at their feet in the bed.Eventually she awoke, "You're back." She smiled, "How are you?"Estrella and Conrad exchanged a look. Estrella's smile faded, "Can we talk about this tomorrow? We just didn't want to scare you guys when you woke up. Thanks for taking care of Lucy and Emery. You guys really are the best."Ridley shrugged her shoulders, "If you say so."Conrad tugged at his wife, indicating they should head to bed. The four said their goodnights as John and Ridley tucked themselves back into bed and Conrad and Estrella walked over to theirs. Their bed was a single bed as the bedroom could only fit one double bed. Estrella was moving to Harvard at the time, so John was the lucky twin. "You almost didn't see us.""What do you mean, John? You guys were asleep." Conrad was sat up in the bed, Estrella wrapped around his body. John was also sat up with Ridley turned to face the wall. He had been watching Ridley sleep."We got into a car accident. I got us into a car accident. Do you know how stupid that was?"Conrad nodded, "I can imagine. But you survived. Both of you. Otherwise you wouldn't be here. And I'm glad you still are.""It's been hard.""Same here. We'll just let everything get back to normal. The girls'll be happy that we're back.""Conrad, it's been a year. You guys have been gone for a year."
***
"You guys are home! Where's Dad?" Scott asked as he hugged his sister."Dropped him in the Oort cloud. He's got enough supplies to last him until his death." She kept a straight face, "What? I've always wanted to see the Oort cloud.""Estrella Glen Tracy, is doesn't matter. He is still our father. He's still our family." Scott stepped forward."Scott Carpenter Tracy, so are your nieces and yet you didn't even think to help out when their parents go missing."Gordon stepped in, "That's completely different.""Yeah, not really, Gordon Cooper Tracy. You see, I've had to deal with our idiot father and his incredibly selfish activities. I've had enough of men being selfish. So for once could the both of you help out when needed."Scott and Gordon exchanged a guilty look, "Sorry.""I'm never leaving Lucy and Emery with you two." She then turned to John and Ridley, "Thank you. We really owe you guys. I always knew I could count on you two."
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The ship door closed, the Skywalkers waved goodbye to their friends as they flew away."We should set off for Naboo. Luke and Leia want to meet their grandparents" Padme kissed Leias hair, smiling."I should stay here" Obi-Wan stepped away from them, " I should see if I can help""Obi-Wan, this is your one chance for a break in the war. You're like family to me. You're my brother, I love you" Anakin smiled, "Besides the twins need their uncle Obi-Wan and Aunt Ahsoka- does Aunt Snips sound better?- in their own ways of the Force. I can already tell they are force sensitive" Ahsoka smiled and laughed, "hhehehe I'm Aunt Snips!!""I love you too Anakin." Obi-Wan grinned, "I like the sound of that- Uncle Obi-Wan" 13 BBYNaberrie Lake VillaA young pair of children stood in the long grass using the Force to lift rocks. Ahsoka, lekku and montrals now longer, knelt between the twins encouraging them.Padme, donning a flowery dress, sat on a picnic blanket nearby, watching."Can we play now? We've been training for hours!" Leia dropped the somewhat large rock she had been floating. "I don't know-" Obi-Wan fidgeted with his beard."Oh come on Master, they're younglings! Let them play""Fineeee" Obi-Wan feigned annoyance. LOLA, their droid, flew out of Leia's pocket fluttering around them"C'mon Leia" Luke grabbed his sisters hand and they rushed off to their mother."Mommy, can you braid my hair?" Leia sat in front of her, not giving her a choice."Alright"Ahsoka chased after Luke as he ran around with a toy speeder nearly stepping on Obi-Wan who was laying out in the sun.Two screams."DADDY" The intricate braid fell apart and the toy speeder forgotten.Anakin appeared on top of the hill. His leather tabards a bit more scuffed than the last time he'd been home, hair pushed away from his head. He dropped his bag as Luke and Leia ran at him. Anakin picked up the twins spinning them around.Padme laughed, as he slid down the hill, the twins crying out in delight. He plopped down the twins and sat next to Padme."Anakin. I'm so glad you're finally home" She sighed. They kissed.Things would be fine.