#beru is just amused

[thosedamnedghouls]

sketch of the Lars family!!

[rarepears]

I want to read solo leveling fics that incorporate more of seoul's special characteristics.

For instance, Seoul has a LOT of underground markets. Some of the underground markets are connected to the metro stations. Some of them are not. They are all great for crossing busy intersections without waiting for the pedestrian lights to turn green - you can just take the stairs down to the underground market and go through one of the dozens of exits they have.

Beru, as an ant, naturally likes hanging out at the underground markets the most. Being underground is the most comfortable to him and his ant instincts.

(But also think about social media. There's going to be dozens of tiktok videos about how, when visiting Seoul, make sure to stop by the Hapjeong Station's underground market because S ranked Hunter Sung Jinwoo's monster is known to be a regular visitor at the rice cake stall there. And that's station is a 5 minute walk from the World cup Market (Mangwon Market) anyways, so you should stop by that station regardless.)

S ranked Sung Jinwoo, now that money isn't a problem, takes his sister out for a day at Lotte World, an amusement park.

What about how Sung Jinwoo's very basic English skills is the result of him having a go at being a street food vendor in downtown Myeongdong night market where much of the foreign tourists couldn't speak Korean? He sold Japchae noodles for 5000 won a serving.

[darth-jess]

Ugh that scene in Kenobi where Obi-wan is watching Luke pretend he’s podracing on top of Uncle Owen & Aunt Beru’s house… the look on Obi-wan’s face is just so filled with mixed emotions.

Clearly, Obi-wan thinks it’s amusing and adorable, but he’s also so strongly reminded of Anakin. He is struck with such a powerful love for the man that was once his brother.

He is reminded of Padmé, who he greatly respected, and it makes him so sad that she couldn’t be there to raise her own children. He is sad that Anakin couldn’t be there to raise his own children.

And he is also a bit terrified. Because this kid is already so much like his father, growing up on the same world his father did. And what if he turns into the same dark, and twisted thing?

I’m sure, despite Jedi teaching, Obi-wan longs for the old days. For the Clone Wars.

Because even though they were a time of terrible loss and sacrifice, even though so many died, it was still a better time than this. And while Jedi must not have possessions, Obi-wan still had the Jedi Order. His friends. Satine. Anakin.

And now, he is alone.

P.S. - I found this while looking for a screenshot of the scene, and even though it’s slightly misleading because Obi-Wan does not have memories of Anakin podracing from that first trip to Tatooine (Obi-Wan stayed with the “Queen” and never left the Naboo skiff) I still really like the sentiment of this video.

[maered613]

C'mon, Baby, Cry

Camie's getting married. Estranged from Owen & Beru, Luke goes home for the first time in 10 years. He's not looking forward to meeting their farmhand, the man who’s been living his old life ever since he left. Din isn’t particularly excited to meet Luke either; not when he already hates him for abandoning people who are like family to him now.

They both try to be civil. Fireworks ensue instead.

--

The most satisfying thing he’s ever experienced, aside from proving Leia wrong at something, is when Luke’s been tinkering with something and it finally roars to life.

After Grogu’s stellar performance yesterday, he dove in with a renewed focus on the old pitching machine, and low and behold, finally got it to start clicking away.

He smiles to himself, satisfied, and heads back to the house.

Din looks up from the kitchen table as the screen door opens.

“They’re not back yet?” Luke asks, glancing at the clock.

“No.” Din says, “-must be a long sermon today.”

Luke winces and heads over to the kitchen sink to clean up a little.

“What?” Din asks, as the sink turns on, “-did you lose a fight with the tin man?”

Luke barks a laugh as he washes the grease off his hands.

“You’re funny, Din. Has anyone ever told you that?”

“Not once.” Din says evenly. He’s suddenly struck by the thought that a grease covered Luke reminds him of one of the oil-spill baby ducks from the Dawn commercials.

He hums to himself, amused, turning back to his paper, ignoring the traitorous thought that the grime suits him.

“You don’t want to know what I was doing?”

Din looks back up at him.

“Does it matter? When you’re going to tell me anyway?”

Luke shakes his head.

“I fixed my old pitching machine for Grogu.”

“Ah.” Din says, but then frowns, “-is that thing safe?”

“No.” Luke says, flatly, holding up his right hand. “-no, I lost this hand using it back in ‘97. This is just a really good prosthetic.”

“I was just fuckin’ asking, Skywalker-“

“If it wasn’t safe, Din,” Luke says, frustratedly, previously under the impression that they had reached a truce, “-why the hell would I-“

They're interrupted by the front door opening.

--

Chapter 2 is up!! Thank you to everyone who's given it so much love,,, I'm overwhelmed. Remiss of me not to mention my muses, the wonderful @stardads @dinlukeweek xoxo

[thewriterowl]

hiiii, it's my birthday today, and I would love to read your (dark) din spoils Luke on his birthday, or it could be Vader.

Thank you so so much (for taking your time), and I love your fics, you're incredible!

GASP!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I hope you have an incredible and amazing birthday! All the wishes and happiness to you!

Honestly, I was tempted to write a sorta 5+1 fic with angsty Luke birthdays and then one he celebrates with soft Din XD so this is up my alley too.

I'm thinking Luke didn't really tell Din--maybe because he was kidnapped by him or maybe he doesn't yet realize Din is dark and yandere over him...but regardless, he just doesn't mention the birthday.

When he was younger he only had small celebrations for his birthday. Owen and Beru really did try for him but they weren't well off and there were a lot of harsh years with the moisture-farming and the Hutt's greedy grip was suffocating. It would take most out of them to just ensure they survived for another harvest. But they gave him what they could (and there was always a mysterious special toy given to him from someone else...Luke didn't know who) but he was the only child for miles upon miles and save for a rather kind, but older boy, from the Darklighter family, there was no one else to celebrate birthdays with. Not like any of the other children would come anyway...he wasn't very popular. Then he was busy in the Rebellion. Then he found out about his past. Then how things clicked that he was born on Empire Day. Then how most wanted to celebrate Leia's birthday, the princess of the fallen world and grand general of the war, and how they were keeping their relation a secret (more or less). Then how he just started to become more and more uncomfortable with attention and crowds and...

In the end, he just put it to the side. It didn't matter.

Sadly, it matters to Din.

It matters a lot to Din.

Din could splice into most anything with a bit of work and with his bounty-hunter penchant for research and obtaining information, he would find it on his own without much issue. But he wanted to hear it from Luke. So he pushes a bit. Even providing his own, though he wasn't big on his own either, as a trade. It still takes a bit but finally, finally, Din gets his victory.

"It falls on what was Empire Day." Luke sighed, mildly amused and mostly perplexed that this man was so invested in this information. "Of course, timing could be a little askew. Empire day started on Coruscant time and we all know the systems have their own different calendars and I was actually born on some place called Polis Massa and--"

"You're rambling."

"Well, I don't like talking about it." He grumbled.

"Why not?"

"Because it's...just not...comfortable for me." His mother and how he has no memories of her but somehow, unfairly--though he tells himself to not think like that, his sister did. How he lost so much the moment he took his first breath. How his existences sometimes felt like such a burden. It really gave him a sort of existential crisis he didn't think befitting a Jedi Master. "But, there, now you know."

And now Din indeed does know.

If Din is the (dark) Mand'alor, he will make this out to be some sort of holiday for his people. He'd gaslight Luke in saying they need something to replace the blight this day once was. Having it be a celebration of the consort, the one who was genuinely a reason why they could celebrate, would mean wonders to them. Just a little sprinkle of guilt to make it happen and the promise that Luke wouldn't have to mingle about with a lot of people like some dignitary.

He is given so much love from the people. Din shows him how everyone is celebrating. There are decorations made from his favorite colors, vendors are selling foods from Tatooine and other things he's enjoyed during his years of travel, his story of meeting Din is shared about along with all of his good deeds when he was the traveling Jedi trying to heal a broken galaxy, good is done in honor of his name, and the people are interviewed to give him well wishes and love on his birthday for him to watch in comfort and privacy.

It's so overwhelming the first year that Luke probably breaks down sobbing. He can't tell if it is a good or bad cry but Din seems to have expected this (perhaps even wanted it) and just stays close and intimately rubs his back as he murmurs, "There you go, let it all out. You had so much...too much." Which Luke, in his state, doesn't understand but still does as told.

When he wakes the next day, he feels foolish and shameful that he hid out crying like a loon when people were being so kind to him.

Din just gives him a gentle hush, "It's your day, my heart. And that is what you wanted and needed. It was a good event for them and a healing one for you. That is a success. And next year will be the same."

Of course, Din isn't done.

This man, dark or not, is a caretaker. He is going to give Luke anything and everything. Remember, he studies and hunts and always gets his answers.

He gives Luke things the blond didn't even realize he wanted. Things Luke never thought about. Things he hadn't even laid eyes upon.

It's hundreds of gifts, ranging from small, free rocks that shimmered Luke's favorite colors, to the best oil bath in the system for Artoo, to robes to match Din's, and his own private hanger so he can design, build, and take apart all the mechanical things his heart desires.

It's too much for Luke. He can't even begin to properly thank Din, unsure how to even accept any of it.

Din just smiles, his eyes glinting with some sort of ploy, as he purrs out something so tender and very much a threat, "Oh love...I haven't even begun. You, my consort, will have so much more."

[starzgaze]

hope you don't mind me ranting rq--

i constantly think about your yan!Hae-In and yan!Jinwoo ideas because they're so fun to mess around with.

bc what if the readers honest to god reaction to either of then confessing to then was "i don't feel the dame way.. you wanna see this cool bug i found?"

that OR the reader is a little freak of a poet and writes romance novels with concerningly detailed cannibalism scenes and is more interested in the shadow ants than either of them.

also i'm planning on writing a fic about the cannibal poet reader, but it's going to take a while because i'm shit at writing-

LMFAOO IDC IF U FLOOD MY INBOX ITS FINEEE more people to talk to anyway because im a bit of a pussy to talk straight up to my mutuals sigh

also thanks i actually have alot in my drafts its just most of them are unfinished and i have no idea if i should let them see the light of day or not... same with w.jc , chi, and sjw sick day fic LMFAOO uhhmm anyway!!

that's actually something i lovvee experienting with lowkey especially as someone who takes a big looong time to realize 'oh they liked me" and it's been fucking months since they confessed but anyqay I actually act like that most of the time it's pretty bad anywaaay this is funny as hell with yandere jinhae who's TRYING their best to make you swoon even if they're not the best with romance but you still don't... budge... bur hey you'll show them some cool colored bug you picked off the side walk! that's hopefully not a mutated monster that escaped a dungeon.

anyway more on the first idea this probably either ends really well or horribly depending on how both jinwoo and haein receives this ooooooorrr the circumstances really on how much they both value you but since im a freak for borderline this is insanity why are you writing this type of literature let's say that if you rejected then you have one swordswoman who accidentally fucks you up psychologically (I don't see haein someone who would do it willingly or deliberately gets enjoyment from it) but with jinwoo its a bit complicated to say because each person has a different take on how jinwoo perceives romance and how he processes feelings but since its my post im going with it's probably borderline fucked up if we consider the fact the more he levels up or grows the more apathetic or inhumane he becomes! im gonna abuse the hell out of this concept

but anywya with jinwoo u're probably gonna either get straight up kidnapped OR because you're lowkey desensitized and carefree that maybe kidnapping doesn't really have any affect on you then he might just sends weird eldritch horrors depictions of death and darkness when you're about to sleep so now you need a cute bug themes night light to sleep because no way you're letting some death incarnate screw up your sleeping schedule.

also those two as an attempt to maybe sway you might get into bugs or whatever little interests like jinwoo is having small consultations with beru or has him on standby everytime he spends time with you or haein overcoming her trauma (this takes place after jeju island) and learns and starts to love bugs just for you to reciprocate her feelings then these two quiz eachother on who knows more and what not it's literally amusing to see them debates over fuckinf caterpillars when you returned with take out because they insisted hanging out with you

anyway now on the latter I LOVE LOVE grotesque depictions of love especially like with murder OR cannibalism like how probably eating eachother is like a way of showing affection and how now your love will always be inside of them (literally) or something along the lines!! it's actually so cool how it's portrayed in media i need some suggestions actually anyway in the context of jinhae and mc being a poet uhmmm I'm not sure because i suck at making poems so im not the best on how to... make this work... i hate writing poems but I'll stick witj the theme of being a romance horror writer but not what you think of like colleen hoover or whomever the fuck wrote haunting adeline (god please i hope those books gets SMITED off the face of earth because this has stained dark romance to the point i dont even wanna acknowledge dark romance as a genre).

if you're a popular horror writer who specializes on creeping out your readers but still somehow delivers a good message or screwedd up message in between the lines of ripped boddies and intestines then jinhae has probably heard of you before like definitely.

like the themes of your books or poems to other people seems to be very disgusting or only written for the shock value but maybe to jinwoo or haein they have a whooole different meaning or one of your books/poems struck them really deep they got into a bit of a rabbit hole going through your collection as an author. i can definitely see both of them becoming fans and attending meet and greets.

oh my god a thought came to me and it's basically how would these two act in the internet if your name was beinf slandered like because your books or poems is not well perceived by all because you would occasionally write screwed up romance that you do not condone at all!! it's all for the sake of symbolism and experimentation with the material but anyway these two would have different reactions to this

for example haein seems to be the type to not be sooo like... like how do i explain this shes the type to have an anonymous account and goes to those forums to have actual discussions and tries to be civil as she can be when she tries to convert these haters why they should like you because i can't see her going as far to try to find this individual's address BUT but im just saying if ever that same hater was in the same dungeon raid as haein, there's no guarantee that haein will probably let them... die and say it was an accident.

anyway jinwoo is less interactive on the internet and is more of a lurker but he's probably the definitely the type to send ominous messages and then appear on their doorstep next morning or even minute if they're that unlucky LMFAO. another case of missing people otw!!

oh and i lowkey love the whooole idea of if you have a writer darling no matter how screwed or how fluffy their stories are the person or people who loves them will try to recreate this. yeaaah i can see this happening with jinwoo and haein and the tiny competition they have is who performed it better.

like for example if you written a poem about the elegant slashes of a sword on how it glides so easily through certain monsters, haein would try to replicate the feeling and explains to jinwoo that she obviously is better at portraying at this because she is a certified swordswoman or something along the lines and honestly jinwoo can't exactly argue against that because she's right but he won't admit it

then with paragraphs that depicts the most grueling experience of death and what not is something jinwoo is really familiar with and he's the type to copy it by doing it on random monsters he encounters in dungeons or even certain monarchs if they're that unlucky or jinwoo feels a biiit experimental LMFAO yeah okay what my brain is fried.

oh talking about darling being a horror romance writer, the moment jinwoo introduces his shadows or you find out about you become absolutely infatuated with them and the whoole idea like especially they're permanently serving death that's a pretty neat idea to you.

you start to write more and talk less to jinwoo and mooore to the shadows, it's pretty funny to see but you didn't notice the fact jinwoo is fuming in the background as he watches you get into in depth discussions with igris and bellion about their past lives and how you'll implement their experiences in a poem

yeha kay thats it my brain wugh dead bye uhm yeah talk to me more i love this sm thanks for food for thought

[dathomirdumpsterfire]

~~Chapter 2~~

(Ao3 link at the bottom, updates Tuesdays)

Ben has been to a fair number of memorably awkward dinners in his life. From soothing the inevitable culture shock of new dignitaries come to orbit the galactic senate, to peace treaty signings that ended in assassinations rather than weddings; between being a traveling jedi master and living on the ecumenopolis that is Coruscant… he has seen a thing or two. 

Yet somehow this dinner was going to make the greatest hits list of phenomenally awkward events.

"Here Ben, have some more topato salad," Beru offers, nudging the bowl toward him.

He isn’t very hungry after all the rest of the admittedly fine meal, but discretion is indeed the better part of valor. The jedi-in-exile takes another two spoonfuls rather than decline. He plans to stretch the two bites to six or seven tiny ones.

"Thank you, Beru," Ben says with a smile. "I must say, your creativity with topato is astounding. I really didn't know you could do this many things with them." 

Across the table, Owen is trying to light him on fire with his eyes. He ignores the other man. He has nothing on Mace in a mood, and there really isn’t anything for it. Either the moisture farmer would come to like him well enough, or he would not .

Besides, Luke is sitting in his highchair, talking baby nonsense and gumming adorably at mashed topatos. How could anyone be in a bad mood around that* ? If Owen manages to keep his snit going, Ben will simply have to write it off as a chronic and incurable condition.

"I think the topato cakes are a new favorite of mine," he throws out, trying to keep the conversation topic of root vegetables going as long as possible, "Although the casserole was a close second. The hass… hmm… what was it you called it? The accordion cuts on the full one?"

"A 'hasselback'," Beru offers, preening about it, and clearly ignoring Owen’s grumpiness as well. "My grandpa taught me how to do that one."

"Ah yes! That was it. The hasselback was particularly impressive, and rather fun to eat."

He means that, too. When half your crop is topatoes and you come up with this many different ways to prepare them, it really is impressive.

Beru pats his hand, "I'm so glad you've enjoyed everything, Ben. Don't worry, I'll send you home with leftovers."

"Don't spoil me too much!" he jokes with a laugh, but speaks from a place of honesty. It isn't like he has a conservator to put anything in.

Luke replies for the room, big blue eyes squinting closed as he squeals happily, just a hair below the frequency needed to crack glass. Beru snorts at the baby, tidying his face and returning several spoons of mash from highchair table to infant-sized bowl. Even Owen's frown pulls up a hint in amusement.

Conversation fails to pick back up after Luke's outburst though. Alas, the root vegetable topic has run its course. Ben focuses intently on his tiny bites of creamy, oniony salad.

The chatter hasn't been dead more than a minute when he catches Beru giving her husband a black look. Owen tries to dodge its potency by hiding behind a mouthful of bread roll, but that only takes him so far. 

Suddenly the man jumps, banging a knee on the underside of the table… almost like someone had stomped on his foot down there.

Ben inspects his shiny, scratched up dinner spoon, and waits.

There's another stint of quiet while they get into it in silence, speaking in the wordless language of couples everywhere. There's eyerolls, pointed glances toward the couch, flat looks, and raised brows. 

Ben can tell that Owen has lost when the man actually speaks more than five words in a row for the first time all night. 

"Say… wizard. There's something I want to ask you," he prods, gruff.

The jedi perks up, trying to exude friendliness. "Certainly, what is it?" 

"Luke's grandma was allergic to somethin' in vizza wheat. Was wondering if you knew how to check for that without doin’ it the hard way."

"Or if you knew if either of his parents had…?" Beru adds. 

Ben rubs his chin thoughtfully, grateful for the regrowth of hair that had somehow come back in much fuller than before, despite no change in habit. Perhaps he was simply acclimatizing?

"Now that I think about it, Anakin would get a stomach ache if he ate too much bread. I would guess it was simply a mild gluten intolerance? Luke could have that as well."

Owen looks down at the remains of breadroll in his hands, skeptical. "He was intolerant of something in all  bread?" 

Ben shakes his head in a negative, hands lowering. "Different flours can have very little or a great deal of gluten. A little was fine for him, like the bread needed for a kebob or fried food? But a bread pudding would give him indigestion for hours, and make him cranky besides."

Beru smiles, seemingly more pleased than the conversation warranted. "Well that's good to know! We'll have to try giving our little man here just a bit, and see how he does." 

"So we do it the hard way after all," Owen grumbles, "You really don't got any fancy wizard tricks to check?"

Ben laments not having the blood test device that jedi used to carry as commonly as most people would keep a datapad on hand. It would have done the trick, and well… he is curious about the boy's midichlorian count. 

"No, I'm sorry. There's a device that could do it, but I don't have one."

Beru waves him off. "A clue from his dad is more than we had to start with, Ben. Don't stress about it."

He nods, and tries not to, going back to his last two mini-bites of topato. 

The conversation wobbles to life here and there, just enough that the rest of the night feels a bit awkward, but not truly stilted or painful. They make it to dessert, where Luke's sweet tooth joy carries the adults the rest of the way until it's time to say goodnight. 

Beru invites him to stay, citing the desert's dangers as the suns disappear, but by that point Ben longs for his quiet little cave. He does not, however, escape without an abundance of leftovers.

It is a long, quiet walk back across the sands to his hideaway. The darkened interior greets Ben with freshly sand-coated floors and the skitter of nighttime creatures. The shape of stone and surface are unlit by the wan moonlight outside, but that’s quite alright. He has long since memorized the form of his space in the dark.

“I’m back!” he tells the dusty air, shuffling carefully in the pitch black to get to the bed. “I had a lovely time at the Lars’. Beru’s topato game is really something.”

The wrapped containers he’d been given are set along the back wall, where a shelf-like protrusion holds a few things. Mostly nice rocks he’s found here and there.

“I’ve more leftovers than I know what to do with…” Ben complains.

He does. They’re fine in the chilly night, but won’t last through the heat of the day tomorrow. “I suppose I shall… simply have to eat as much of them as possible.”

The thought of eating a feast for the second day in a row turns his stomach.

“Or well… perhaps some of the rock lizards would like a bite?”

No one replies, but that’s to be expected.

“Yes, I think I shall share.”

[vanishedangels]

Clan of Warriors

Click here for First chapter

Summary: While rebuilding Mandalore, Mand'alor Din Djarin is questioned by his people because of his beliefs and origins. In the dawn of a civil war, the council resolves that The Mand'alor must join in marriage with someone close to Bo-Katan Kryze. He’s forced to marry Koska Reeves and accept a loveless union. In the meantime, Din is having a secret relationship with his son’s Master, Jedi Luke Skywalker, his dream of having his own clan of warriors is about to fade away.

Pairing: Din Djarin/Luke Skywalker

Characters: Din Djarin, Luke Skywalker, Grogu, Leia Organa, Cara Dune, Koska Reeves, Bo-Katan Kryze, Axe Woves, OC, Peli Motto, Fennec Shand, Boba Fett, Paz Vizsla, Owen Lars, Beru Whitesun, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Wedge Antilles, The Armorer.

Rating: Explicit (+18)

Warnings: Canon Typical Violence. Explicit Smut.

Tags: Canon Compliant, Post Season 2 Finale, Mutual Pining, Slow Burn, Friends To Lovers, Fluff, Angst, Demisexual Din Djarin, Top Luke Skywalker, Bottom Din Djarin, Top Din Djarin, Bottom Luke Skywalker, Protective Din Djarin, BAMF Luke Skywalker, Adorable Baby Yoda, Sassy Leia Organa, Gai Bal Manda, Blindfolds, Sub Din Undertones, Fantasies, Jealous Luke, Keldabe Kiss, Smut, Jealous Din, Dirty Talk, Face Reveal.

Chapters: 37/?

Navigation: <- Previous Chapter • Next Chapter ->

Din hummed and walked to Grogu's room, Luke was sitting on the floor, legs crossed, the child was playing by his side with a tiny lightsaber and there were crayons around him, Din's stomach clenched thinking back to the day he saw his ad'ika on Coruscant for the first time since he left him under Luke's care, but this time the sight was heart wrenching. Luke looked at him with sadness in his eyes, he blinked, his expression exuding calmness in a way that took Din's breath away.

"I heard him." He said quietly, breaking Din's heart.

"Luke..." Din pleaded tilting his head.

"He has a point." Luke cut him off.

Chapter 37: Strength

To Din's surprise, when the door slid open Miko wasn't there, a blue helmet appeared in front of him instead.

"Vizsla?" Din asked cocking his head, he frowned behind his visor.

"Vod." The taller mandalorian paused "She's here."

Din cast a glance at Luke and Grogu behind him before looking at Paz again "Where's she?" He could feel the way his heartbeat sped up, his breath hitched as his vod nodded.

"Come with me."

Paz walked Din to his bedroom, the latter widened his eyes when he finally saw her, stoic and imposing as always, just like Din remembered her.

"Mand'alor." She nodded at Din as Paz closed the door behind him.

Din swallowed through the lump in his throat "It's been hard here without you." He said under his breath, almost incredulous.

She was standing by the window, arms folded behind her back, her horned gold beskar helmet shining faintly under the dim light, her fur coat wrapping her shoulders making her look like royalty, maybe she was meant to be their one and rightful ruler. Maybe. Din blinked astonished when she took a few steps forward "I'm with my people now."

The Armorer moved her hands forward slowly, her visor fixed on Din's "I heard about the situation, Vizsla filled me in."

"I won't give them what they want." He tilted his helmet "They should pay for what they've done." He added and he was certain about that.

"It amuses me, the fact that you didn't notice." The Armorer said moving her head to stare at Paz who was standing right beside Din.

Confusion took Din completely "Didn't notice what exactly?" He inquired.

"When I walked the distance between the ship that took me here and the headquarters I came across some of these protesters." She stressed the last word. "I would recognize one of the armours I forged in total darkness. These are not mandalorian."

That statement made Din startle, sending shivers down his spine "What?"

"They're wearing your dead tribe siblings' armours, these are the same beskar'gam that we left behind on Nevarro, when Gideon's people attacked our covert."

Din's heart skipped a beat as he felt the way his chest started to tighten "No." He muttered through gritted teeth, his hands curling into fists.

"My guess... they're imps posing as mandalorians."

His knees weakened all of a sudden "No." He said again shaking his head vigorously.

Everything around Din narrowed down to that very moment, to those very words. Suddenly all the suffering, all the pain lost its meaning, they've been dancing to these people's demands in order to preserve peace, but peace was never an option, the Armorer exposed their deceit and it became clear, Mandalore has been infiltrated by Gideon's imps in order to infect its people.

"You must be cautious if you want to see our people united." The Armorer said bringing him out of his mind. "One false move and Mandalore would remain fractured."

Din frowned looking down, his fingers resting on the hilt of the darksaber, he sighed deeply, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders.

"We have no time, the council will be ready to receive you any minute now." Paz declared, resting his hand on Din's pauldron.

They had no time.

~

Din walked into the council chamber making everyone inside the room set eyes on him as he moved aside only to reveal the two force-users behind him. The blonde Jedi was dressed in black with his long cloak wrapped around his shoulders, his expression stern but serene somehow, Din glimpsed at him, only Jedi could attain such balance, a Jedi, his Jedi. Luke was holding baby Grogu, securing him in his arms, the child was facing the council with curious eyes, almost expectant, his little hand clutching his Master's sleeve, he tilted his head letting out a little sound, Luke nodded caressing his back. Din's eyes softened behind his helmet, he knew that they were sharing thoughts through the force and his heart soared.

"What is this?" Bo-Katan's voice broke his absorption. She pressed her hands against the surface of the table "This is a council meeting, what is the Jedi doing here?" She asked and Din could tell she was certainly irked just by the tone of her voice.

"I want him to be here." Din stated and dismissed the subject in a heartbeat "I'm going to be brief." He fixed his visor on Shrune "The wedding won't happen. The deal is off."

Some of the council members let out an audible gasp, Shrune lowered his gaze, avoiding Din's visor while Bo-Katan shook her head chuckling "You can't be serious." She added staring at Din. "We've already given our word!"

"I won't negotiate with terrorists." Din deadpanned making her stop in her tracks, her body stiffened all of a sudden, it looked like she was holding her breath. She kept staring at him in silence. Din shifted his weight from one foot to the other, hand curled around the darksaber's hilt "You negotiated with them, not me. You made this arrangement with them behind my back, behind our people's back, and you call yourselves mandalorians." He started walking from one side of the room to the other, helmet pointing at them "They are holding us hostages on our own home planet and you turn a blind eye to that. They killed our people and vandalized our headquarters in order to twist our arm, and you gave in. You offered them what they wanted, willingly." He took a few steps forward coming to a halt in front of the table, facing Shrune. He leaned forward putting the darksaber on the table, not breaking eye contact with the elder member of the council, the man he looked up to since the day he set foot on Mandalore. "I'm The Mand'alor and I say they need to answer for their actions."

He leaned back and Shrune shifted his gaze from Din's visor to the saber on the table, the old man frowned looking at him again, he took in a sharp inhale "We, as the council, would never go against our Mand'alor's will." He looked at the rest of the members "Our Mand'alor has spoken and we should agree to his request."

"This is madness!" Bo-Katan finally said "This will take us down the path we were desperately trying to elude."

Shrune shook his head "Maybe we were already there..." He looked at Din tilting his head "And we were just fooling ourselves."

"No." She retorted standing up "We're not doing this, Djarin!" She narrowed her eyes pointing a finger at him "They will attack us the second they learn you're not uniting our houses."

"And we'll be waiting for them." Din said grabbing the darksaber and clipping it back to his utility belt "We count with a Jedi knight in our ranks now." He said waving his hand towards Luke who was still standing by the entrance with Grogu nestled in his arms. He carefully tried to assess Luke's expression in order to find the slightest hint of discomfort, his little Jedi looked undisturbed, but again, Jedi were good at hiding emotion and although Din knew Luke gave him his word, he couldn't help but think that maybe he was asking for too much, involving him directly like this.

"He's a foreigner, he's not one of us. You're crossing the line here." Bo-Katan argued but Shrune dissuaded her by clearing his throat and glaring at her.

"The wedding is cancelled, still we need to map out a plan, we won't say a word about this for the time being, I count on your discretion until then." He looked around nodding, before looking at Din again "Thank you, Your highness."

Din nodded at him and turned around, he could hear the voices mingling behind him, the whispers, the concern, but he wouldn't go back. This is the way.

He reached out to hold Grogu's hand and baby cooed staring at him with big brown eyes, he absentmindedly put his free hand on Luke's waist, looking at his blue eyes and the Jedi's lips curled up slightly. Suddenly Luke's eyes moved from Din to his side, Bo-Katan appeared behind The Mand'alor, looking Luke straight in the eye.

"All this because you..." She looked at Din's black visor and then she shifted her gaze to Luke "Because you're in love?" She squinted and then looked Luke up and down but he didn't make a move, he didn't make a sound.

Din swallowed tightly, granted, when this started, his initial concern was indeed about Luke, his Luke, but it progressively became bigger and deeper than that. He released his ad'ika's little hand and withdrew his hand from Luke's waist to face Bo-Katan Kryze, he tilted down his helmet, visor fixed on her face "You didn't hear a word I had spoken, did you?" He asked, his voice giving away his annoyance.

She tossed her head back, her nostrils flared before she put her helmet on and walked away from him. Din was flexing his hands in an attempt to remain composed but his blood was boiling inside his veins and he could feel his pulse pounding in his ears, did she know about it? Did she know these were imperials in mandalorian armour?

He was still staring at her retreating form when Paz leaned in to whisper to him "Shrune will see you in private right away, vod. Wait for him in your chamber." Din nodded and looked at Luke. His Jedi squeezed his hand in a reassuring way, making Din feel grateful for having him in his life.

The way I love you, cyare.

~

Din was sitting on the couch, resting his feet on the caf table, Grogu was sitting in his lap playing with his shiny ball, Din's hands stroking baby's back, he smiled staring at his little face, then he sighed resting the back of his head on the backrest, his mind going back to Shrune's reaction when he finally informed him of the nature of the protesters, their true identities, in the privacy of his room. He sighed again making Grogu perk his ears. Din squeezed his eyes shut and then, the warmth of two gentle hands on his shoulders soothed him, this time he sighed pleased and opened his eyes slowly, his little Jedi was standing behind the couch leaning forward, his beautiful face hovering over Din's, the blonde smiled fondly before pressing a chaste kiss on his lips, then he moved to kiss his forehead and Din relished in the softness and serenity his little clan was offering him.

If I could I would fall in love with you two all over again. Every day of my life.

"Shrune looked very disturbed." He said frowning.

"He was." Luke replied squeezing his shoulders.

"Cyare, I can't believe it, I still can't wrap my head around it. Imperials... wearing my dead siblings' armour-" His voice trailed off "Siblings they killed when I decided to rescue Grogu from the client."

Luke shushed him "Stop right there, I know where you're going."

Din shrugged "I know, I can't change the past."

"Right, love. But we can make things better."

We. How beautiful it sounded. A reality, no longer a promise.

Luke massaged his scalp, softly, eliciting a sigh from Din, pleased, he rubbed Grogu's ear with his fingers and baby giggled. This was heaven. The calm before the storm.

~

Shrune came back later, he walked into the chamber looking down and scratching his gray beard.

"I informed the council about the imperials." He pursed his lips "But, Mand'alor, did you realize that we can't tell real mandalorians from imposers just by looking at them?"

"My tribe leader can." Din swayed on his feet resting both hands on his hips.

"Alright, yes, our Armorer could do that, still, did you consider that they mingled with our people for almost a year? I can assure you that there are real mandalorians supporting their cause, their position, their beliefs as we talk."

Fuck. Din didn't even think about it. He let out a sharp breath as his shoulders sagged.

"I'm sorry son, but this is not that simple." He closed the distance between them and rested a hand on Din's pauldron.

Din looked at him almost defeated behind his visor "But when they realize they were supporting imps that killed our siblings they will change their mind."

Shrune pressed his lips together and nodded "They might. Still, I need to ask you something." He looked pointedly at Din's visor "If we are going to do this we should be convincing, show them that we're approaching the matter in good faith." He clicked his tongue "The Jedi is a problem, he must leave Mandalore as soon as possible."

His words made Din feel chills and his gut crawled in a very unpleasant way "No." He said flatly "He's a member of my Royal guard."

Shrune sighed, his eyes looked full of compassion, still Din felt utterly affronted by his request "I'm begging you, my Mand'alor. Please, I do believe that having him as a guard would be advantageous, notwithstanding Lady Kryze is right, our people consider him an enemy, it's not wise to keep him around while we breach the agreement." He frowned "Besides, they would believe you're breaking the deal because of him, we don't need distractions."

No. Din shook his head slowly.

"Please, son. He could return when this is over, please, meet me halfway here."

Din hummed and walked to Grogu's room, Luke was sitting on the floor, legs crossed, the child was playing by his side with a tiny lightsaber and there were crayons around him, Din's stomach clenched thinking back to the day he saw his ad'ika on Coruscant for the first time since he left him under Luke's care, but this time the sight was heart wrenching. Luke looked at him with sadness in his eyes, he blinked, his expression exuding calmness in a way that took Din's breath away.

"I heard him." He said quietly, breaking Din's heart.

"Luke..." Din pleaded tilting his head.

"He has a point." Luke cut him off.

Din took a few steps back and looked at Shrune who was still standing by the main door, he reluctantly nodded at the old man, and he nodded back before leaving the chamber. Din looked at his cyare again, exhausted and infuriated by his people's constant push, and he was taken aback by the way Luke's expression changed, little Jedi grimaced while getting on his feet slowly, even when he tried to hide it, it seemed that he was feeling the same way as Din was feeling about this matter after all.

~

Din spent the rest of the evening and the night working on a plan, meeting with the council in public as well as meeting with Paz, Koska and the Armorer in secret, but it was worth it, he wanted to put an end to this nonsense. He was focused on the task but he couldn't help letting his mind go to Grogu and Luke now and then, all by themselves inside his chamber, maybe missing him as much as he was clearly missing them, missing their affection.

And Luke.

The council scheduled his departure. The Jedi was leaving Mandalore the next morning when every living soul in town could witness him getting on Paz Vizsla' ship.

It was still dark outside when Din entered his chamber, he walked to the main room and the sight of his clan mended his broken heart. They were in Din's bed, both of them peacefully sleeping, they were lying on their side, Grogu's head was resting on Luke's outstretched arm, while he was holding the baby's little body close to his chest with his free hand. Din swallowed through the lump in his throat as tears started prickling at the corner of his eyes. He removed his helmet and kept walking, finally crawling into bed, Luke hummed frowning, eyes still closed as Din's hand slid from his waist to his stomach.

"Hi, babe." Din whispered softly in his ear before pressing a kiss on his temple "It's all set." He added staring at his blonde hair as he started rubbing circles on his stomach through his shirt shifting behind Luke to cuddle him. Luke smiled pleased and pressed against him.

"Good." Luke murmured.

Din chuckled closing his eyes, the sound of Grogu's snoring filling the silence surrounding them while he fell asleep embracing his man and his son, wishing he could stay in that moment forever.

~

The sun was out, casting shadows over the dusty streets of Mandalore as a cloaked form walked from the headquarters to the royal guard's ship, all eyes were suddenly on him, he was escorted by Paz and Koska, his hood covering his head only revealing his mouth and chin, people turned their heads incredulous to look closely to the Jedi as he walked up the ramp.

The Mand'alor was watching from afar, standing on the headquarters front step, he kept staring at the ship until it finally took off as he heard indistinct murmuring coming from the street, he looked around, everybody seemed flabbergasted, astonished. Bo-Katan looked at him sideways, she nodded in silence and he glared at her behind his helmet for a while before entering the building.

Din locked himself inside his chamber for the rest of the day. No one would dare to pester him, everyone seemed to understand that the Jedi was more than just a guest to The Mand'alor, that day everything remained quiet while their leader spent hours with his ad'ika in the royal room.

The night came again and he tucked the sleepy baby in, leaving him in his own room as he walked to the center of the chamber and sat down on the couch, he huffed leaning back staring at the ceiling. He missed Luke. He missed him with every fiber of his being.

Finally, a knock on the door. He grabbed his helmet and put it back on "Come in." He said standing up. The door slid open and the Armorer walked in with another mandalorian beside her. Din curled his hands into fists. They walked, closing the distance, coming to a halt a few feet away from him. Din set his eyes on the mandalorian next to her, their helmet was painted in black and dark green and the rest of the armour remained silver, unpainted, untouched.

The Armorer broke the silence "Silver, black and green. The colours of your clan." She nodded at Din.

Din's heartbeat sped up when the mandalorian removed their helmet and blue eyes met his visor, a mop of blonde hair all tousled and ruffled appearing before him making his breath quicken.

"I leave you now. This is the way." The Armorer said as she walked out of the chamber.

Din was blinking behind his visor, gaping at the man in front of him. His eyes roamed all over his form until he finally fixed them on his pauldron, the image of a mudhorn adorning it.

"Please, say something." Luke said with a trembling voice, Din tried to speak but he couldn't, not even in his wildest dreams did he imagine Luke Skywalker, his Luke Skywalker, wearing a mandalorian armour. And Gods, he looked breathtaking.

"I love you." Din finally said absentmindedly, reaching out to caress Luke's pauldron, the tip of his fingers brushing the edges of the mudhorn symbol, Luke shrugged slightly pressing his lips together and looking at Din through his eyelashes. "Kriff, Luke... I'm-" Speechless. "Uh, you are-" He couldn't find the words.

"Yours." Luke added grabbing his gloved hand to press his palm against his chest plate and Din's heart leapt in his chest, he could feel the way his cheeks were burning all of a sudden as something pleasant squirmed in his gut. It was curious but since they set foot on Mandalore they hardly felt the need to feel each other, to love each other, the drama around them killed the passion, the burning, the desire, and something was coming back to Din. He withdrew his hand from Luke's chest plate and removed his helmet, he cupped Luke's face pressing their bodies together in the process, looking into his blue eyes.

"You look perfect, you're a walking dream, Luke." He kissed him softly, with open eyes basking in the way Luke melted against him. Little Jedi moved his arms to hold him, soothing his hands on his back as Din nibbled at his bottom lip making him purr. "Perfect, cyar'ika. Perfect." He said under his breath as the tip of Luke's tongue trailed his upper lip.

"I want-" Luke said digging his fingers into Din's waist.

"You got it." Din groaned.

Luke tossed his head back chuckling "You didn't even know what I was about to say." He rested his hands on Din's pauldrons smirking sultry at him.

"I can tell what you want, I can feel it." Din moved his hand down between their bodies to squeeze Luke's hardening cock making him hiss "I missed you, cyar'ika. I missed this." He added, rubbing Luke's length through the fabric of his pants. "Good thing you're not wearing a codpiece." He snorted out a laugh while Luke pressed his face against his mirroring him, for the first time in a while they were enjoying themselves and Din couldn't get enough of that.

"Din." Luke breathed out glancing at Grogu's bedroom's door.

"He's sleeping." He leaned in ducking his head, he buried his face in Luke's neck, his lips brushing his skin before peppering it with kisses "Now, go on, tell me, what do you want?" He asked, his mustache tickling his ear and he could feel the way Luke shivered in his arms.

Luke blinked a few times boring into his brown eyes, smiling, lips partially open as he slid his thigh to place it between Din's and he started rubbing it against Din's crotch. Din's head was spinning only by feeling the hard beskar of the Jedi's cuisse against his own arousal, unlike Luke, he was already rock hard "Use your imagination, Mand'alor." He whispered in his ear, his voice thick with want, making Din's skin prickle.

Din pulled back staring at his eyes "As you wish, Jedi." A lopsided smile crossing his features as he started ushering Luke to the main room by tugging at his utility belt. A walking dream, his blonde Jedi, his mandalorian Jedi. And they were still together, against all odds, no matter what.

[crispy-art-on-fire]

Day 6: My man Henry who accidentally is the root of a lot of ocs I have. He's my SCP oc who has the power to make other SCPs obsessed with him. This is very bad because while he's the source of the obsession he can't control it at all.

Day 7: Sarah is my Dnd oc (the elf specifically) who's demi romantic asexual. Her view of love was basically "Sounds fake but ok" and assumed everyone loved her bc she thinks she's the best ever. Doesn't help her when she actually falls for someone. The person I've drawn with her is Cade another PC. They are two very awkward teenagers.

Day 8: Mahirr also my Dnd oc who is now married to a rabbitfolk with a kid. Ex-murderhobo though aer doesn't actually do much murder mostly aer tried and got stopped and then later learned forgiveness and controlling aers anger issues.

Day 9: I did this like 30min before midnight this is my secret backstory oc: Candlelight. Which got an official character form for Tails of Equestria game where they were a Game master PC. They're just me but a pony and sillier.

Day 10: Beru-ti is my League of Legends oc! He also got a very messy situation with his love life so currently he's single and fighting against the void while slowly being corrupted by it. But he's surprisingly hanging in there despite the oppressing isolation.

Day 11: Fenrir my disaster gay VtM npc Sire (the one with yellow eyes). He's got a crush on his childe (not actual child just the person he made vampire) and wants the dude to grow strong enough to kill him. Incredibly amused by his himbo ways.

Day 12: Danganronpa ocs without names. Basically Gardener is a super fan of Author's books and they bond over it. They don't get much time to truly fall in love and be together bc Danganronpa. Where Gardener comes up with a plan to try to get Author out bc Author's books saved her when she was in her darkest place and so want Author to escape and continue to write for her.

[aglaecan]

@mindsmade sent a meme: ❛ I think you have something you want to tell me. ❜ / aphanarû to beru 👁️ ( omg I’m so happy to see you around again aaaaaa )

The market bustled. Travelers and merchants from many lands both shopped and plied their many trades. To one side, Berúthiel saw a woman with the distinctive facial tattooing of a seer of Ayrsis in lower Khand haggling expertly over the price of imported Harondarim oranges; to another, an Isfahani man in an elaborate indigo headscarf displayed gorgeous glassware for the edification of a bored-looking man whose retinue wore regalia embroidered with the heraldry of Belfalas.

The princeling had come to her as she had begun to close up her own stall in the market for the day, and Berúthiel would not send him away. Not so quickly, not so easily. She had her own work still to be seen to, of course, and so she had told him, uncompromisingly so, that if he wished to speak to her, it would be while she saw to her own marketing. 

The large man in his rich finery tagged along at her elbow, then, as the sapthêth moved from booth to booth, a quite normal market-basket hung so mundanely over her elbow that it might almost be comical if she did not still carry herself with the easy prepossession of a queen. 

Berúthiel paused at a spice merchant’s and bought a twist of flaky sea salt, a silk pouch of dried rose petals, a few curls of dark cinnamon bark, a little box filled with glossy black peppercorns. At another stall, she perused the bolts of fabrics, but bought only black thread wound tight upon its bobbin, and red thread, and stout cotton twine. She bought two of the oranges from Harondar, naming for the merchant the same price the Ayrsisim seer had paid; she bought flatbreads baked that day, and a good cut of meat she could slice and roast in the coals and call dinner. At the knife-sharpener’s, she retrieved the slim blade she’d left there earlier, freshly stropped to a winking edge.

“Is that why you keep returning to me, princeling?” she asked, when finally, Aphanarû’s long patience seemed exhausted and he spoke. Amusement danced in her gaze, feline and watchful. Her basket had grown heavy as the day wore on; his silence must have grown just as heavy. Finally, he had set it down; and yet she still bore her burden. “Because you think I have something to say to you? Is it not the other way ‘round?”

[firealder2005]

Whumpcember 2022 Day. 25 “SHOULDN’T YOU BE HAPPY?”

Christmas special!

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/43693125

Enjoy!

```

Darkness greeted Luke when he awoke, feeling the floor beneath his knees.

That, and the feeling of fabric around his eyes.

He was blindfolded. Great.

His mind was clearer now, making Luke pretty sure he had been drugged back in the room he’d been locked in. That would explain the dizziness, the stumbling, and the general ick of it all.

Now however…

He twisted his arms, slightly hissing in confusion and frustration as the rope wound around his upper arms and chest down to wrap his wrists together held fast.

He shifted, trying to shuffle back onto his feet to stand, but his ankles were also held tight by rope.

Luke visibly swallowed, and froze as the cold, circular thing around his neck brushed against his throat.

Oh no.

No, no no no no!

And that’s when it hit Luke, feeling his face twist into a look of horror - he couldn’t feel the Force .

That…that collar (the word made him squirm) was a force-suppression collar!

Whoever had kidnapped him clearly had the money and resources to get one of those blasted things.

A light chuckle made him still. “Glad to see you are finally awake,” Luke didn’t recognize the voice, but it sounded faintly Coruscanti. “And very aware of just what precarious position you are in.”

Luke gritted his teeth. “Who are you?” he demanded. “What do you want?”

“I am Prince Xizor,” the voice casually answered, footfalls alerting Luke to Xizor’s increasing proximity. “And what I want…” a shuffle of robes, and Xizor’s clawed hands - okay, so he was humanoid but definitely not human - gripped Luke’s face and titled it upwards.

Luke refused to nervously swallow.

“I want,” Xizor softly continued. “To teach your father a lesson.”

Luke tensed. Did Xizor know Vader was his father? Or was he simply referring to Anakin Skywalker? But if it was the latter, then how could he “teach him a lesson”?

“You should be happy,” Xizor went on, letting go of Luke’s face and patted his blonde hair, making Luke lean away. “You won’t have to live with the knowledge of having Vader for a father for long.”

Well that answered that question.

“That’s not reassuring,” the Jedi padawan muttered.

“Really?” Xizor sounded amused.

Luke pinpointed the area Xizor’s voice had come from. “At all.” he would have glared if the blindfold wasn’t over his eyes.

He nearly jumped out of his skin as Xizor’s clawed finger slipped under one side of his blindfold and tugged it down, letting it hang around his neck as Luke blinked at the sudden light.

A Falleen man was in front of him - Xizor, by the look of the smirk on his green, reptilian face. His black hair was pulled up and back into a long ponytail, and dressed in fine purple robes that would have set Uncle Owen and Beru for life on Tatooine. His cold blue eyes were studying Luke as much as the blonde was him.

“Try to get comfortable,” Xizor said at last, straightening up and brushing off his robes. “Your father should be here soon.”

With those final words, Xizor turned and left, not even casting a glance behind him.

Luke let out a stuttering breath.

What was he going to do?

High above in the air ducts, a human female was army crawling her way through Xizor’s building, blaster back at her belt, and a determined press of her lips.

Vader steadily strolled his way through Xizor’s Palace on Coruscant, unlit lightsaber in hand and half of his mind on Luke’s muted presence.

He was alive.

The relief Vader felt with that revelation was stronger than a Sith should have felt, but in the moment Vader couldn’t care less.

Luke was alive, and Vader was going to get him out of here.

(Admittedly, with some help from Organa.)

However, Vader had to take care of Xizor first. Had to cut the head of the reptilian snake off so his and the Princess’s path to Luke was clear.

And he knew exactly where to find Xizor - in his office, where he was probably smirking over his criminal empire and smiling coldly about his latest plan to undermine Vader.

But this time…Vader wasn’t letting Xizor leave alive.

Palpatine had always protected Xizor from Vader’s wrath, but Palpatine wasn’t here now…

Vader had free reign.

Thrusting a hand out, he blew the doors to Xizor’s office off their hinges and stalked into the room, fixing his stare into the calm, scaly face before him.

“Where is he.” Vader demanded, cape billowing behind him as he kept prowling forward. “Where is Skywalker.”

“Right where he should be,” Xizor simply said, placing a document he had been reading aside. “Before his meeting with the Emperor, that is.” At Vader’s stiffening, Xizor smiled, razor sharp. “Shouldn’t you be happy about that?” he lightly asked, but Vader could feel the cold, dark amusement running through the Falleen’s blood as a derisive tone poured into his words. “After all, once the Emperor is finished with him, won’t he be the son you’ve always dreamed of?”

Vader’s heart would’ve gone staccato if it weren't for his suit.

He knew.

Xizor knew Vader’s most closely-kept secret, and knew the best way to hurt him was to hand Luke over to Sidious.

He was weaponizing Luke in the worst way possible without even needing to physically dangle him in front of Vader.

A hot, bluster of pure rage shot through Vader, setting his nerves alight with vengeance as he seethed over the Falleen’s taunts. Xizor had always sneered at the so-called “hot tempers” of humans, and believed himself superior to them due to his own cold-blooded nature, but Vader was going to prove him wrong .

Xizor’s frostiness may allow him to play the long game and watch with satisfaction as his manipulations paid off, but Vader was the master of quick, measured results. He got what was needed done - sometimes, in pure spite alone.

But this…no, this will be done in pure, utter bloodthirsty rage .

Xizor had dared to touch what was his, and he was going to pay for it-

A loud clatter made the two enemies look to Vader’s right, were a ventilation shaft vent had just fallen.

There was nothing there.

Then a second one fell, then a third, and a fourth.

Xizor had risen from his seat and whipped around to glare menacingly at Vader.

“What is the meaning of this?!” he demanded. “What are you playing at here?”

Vader would have scoffed.

He was just as befuddled over this.

Xizor scowled at him and shoved his chair aside - and that’s when Vader saw the culprit.

A small figure in white dropped down from the open vent behind Xizor, brown hair frizzing and clothes marred with gray and brown dust, pale face streaked with black grime, but Princess Leia Organa had her teeth bared in a sharp smile as Xizor turned and was met with a blaster bolt to the forehead.

The Falleen dropped to the ground, hitting his own desk in the process, and sent all his documents flying.

Vader glanced back towards Princess Organa, who walked forward and kicked Xizor’s dead body, savage satisfaction in her mind as she spun her blaster in her hand.

“Maybe that’ll teach you not to mess with my friends,” she sniffed, sending the body one last dark look, before turning to Vader, who finally was able to shake himself out of his stupor.

Acting like that, Organa almost reminded him off… her .

But it couldn’t possibly be so.

Right? Right.

Besides…

“What are you doing here?” he demanded, shaking a finger at her like she was a disobedient child. “You were supposed to look for Luke!”

Organa crossed her arms and gave him a look, like a teenager done with her parents. “And I found him. He was a little…tied up, so he asked me to come help you instead.” she snorted. “I wouldn’t have dropped through the ceiling to shoot a crime boss point-blank to aid you unless he asked me to.”

For once in his life, Organa struck Vader speechless. He fumbled for his words, then lowered his finger.

“Come on then,” he grudgingly said. “Let’s find Luke and get out of here before the Emperor becomes suspicious.”

Leia gave a sharp nod and strolled out of the office like she owned the place, leaving Vader to have to let her lead, since she knew where Luke was. Vader could sense him, but something was muting his presence, making it nigh-impossible to track him down.

“He’s here,” Leia said, pointing to the door ahead. “Xizor had him tied up and has some sort of force-suppressant on him that I couldn’t get off.”

Vader felt his mood darken at that. Leia pushed the door open, revealing Luke, who was trussed up and (Vader would’ve snarled) collared like some sort of pet .

Of course, that is what Sidious saw Luke as. An errant, disobedient pet that needs to learn its place.

A slave defying his master.

“Luke,” Vader said, mechanical legs creaking as he knelt down. “Are you injured?” the blonde boy shook his head, so Vader refocused on that infuriating collar. “Hold still,” he softly instructed his son as he gently touched the offending metal circle. He wrapped the collar in the darkside, feeding all of his anger that his son was forced to wear such a thing, hatred towards Xizor for taking Luke from him, hatred towards Sidious for wanting to do the same…and he crushed the collar into twisted metal, making it snap and fall from Luke’s neck.

He briefly heard Leia gasp, but then began to detangle his son from his bonds of rope, freeing his hands, arms, and chest first before finally releasing his ankles. Leia helped her friend up and hugged him, both Rebels holding each other tight, before Leia took Luke’s hand and nodded to Vader.

Their work here was done.

[bittybug-sunflower-blog]

Chapter summary: Beka and Rex stopped in a town for supplies, faced hostility, and found shelter with Owen and Beru Lars. Beka comforted Luke, Owen's nephew, with a lullaby. The next day, they reunited with Obi-Wan in nearby caves. After an urgent call from Hunter, Beka departed to rescue friends, leaving Rex behind. With a final farewell, she continued her mission, guided by the Force.

Warning: none

Word count: 3879

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 16

As the wind whipped through the speeder and the sand hummed beneath them, they stopped in a small town to gather a couple of supplies, Beka taking the time to look for better attire than her skippy outfit she was wearing. Rex stole a glance at Beka, a small smile appearing on his face. "You know, you always manage to find the time to explore, no matter how urgent the mission," he remarked, his voice laced with amusement.

Beka chuckled softly, her eyes scanning the bustling streets for any sign of their target. "What can I say? A Jedi Master needs better attire in this type of terrain," she replied, her tone light-hearted despite the gravity of their situation.

Rex nodded in agreement, his gaze drifting to the colorful array of garments on display at the nearby vendor's stall. "Well, just don't take too long," he teased.

Beka rolled her eyes, but couldn't suppress a smile at Rex's jest. "Don't worry, I'll be quick," she promised, already stepping towards the stall with a sense of purpose.

As she perused the selection of clothing and careful consideration, Beka selected a few items that caught her eye. After handing the vendor a few credits, she slipped into a nearby stall to change. Donning a blue dress accented with a darker sash around the waist, she added a pair of brown fingerless gloves and secured a set of goggles over her eyes. Finally, she wrapped Hunter's scarf around her neck to complete the ensemble. With a satisfied nod, she turned to Rex, who was waiting patiently nearby. "Ready to go?" she asked, a hint of excitement in her voice.

Rex grinned, and nodded, "Yes." Revving up his speeder as Beka did for hers with the droid strapped to the side.

As they sped away from the town, their speeder slicing through the desert air, they raced towards their next destination. Upon reaching the next town, however, the atmosphere shifted palpably. The citizens didn't look too pleased to see the two of them there.

"Jedi scum," a passerby spat at Beka, the disdain evident in their voice.

"I hide those. Can't afford to draw unnecessary attention." Rex remarked, gesturing towards the lightsabers dangling from Beka's belt. His observation prompted her to swiftly conceal them within the folds of her sleeves. Rex started scanning their surroundings for any signs of potential threats or unwanted onlookers. Despite the casual demeanor of their conversation, both remained ever vigilant, attuned to the slightest shift in the Force or indication of danger.

As they continued their journey through the winding streets of the town, they took a momentary break and quenched their thirst with a swig of water. Beka and Rex turned their attention to the droid, curious about its origins and experiences.

"What's your story little guy?" Beka asked, her curiosity piqued as she leaned in closer to the droid. In response, the droid emitted a series of beeps before a translation rang out.

"What'd he say?" Rex asked.

"He said his name is Sprig," Beka relayed to Rex, her brow furrowing in sympathy. "He was working during the Republic, but his master was killed when the clones turned on him. Sprig fled, but was eventually caught and sold to the Hutts."

"Ah, well, you're in good company now," Rex remarked, acknowledging Sprig's journey with a hint of amusement in his voice.

As Beka listened to Sprig's tale, her expression softened with empathy. "It sounds like you've been through quite the ordeal," she murmured, patting the droid affectionately. "But you're safe with us now." With a series of beeps and whistles, Sprig seemed to express gratitude for their reassurance, his mechanical sounds conveying a sense of trust and camaraderie that transcended language barriers.

Rex glanced at Beka, his curiosity piqued by her backstory. "So, when you left the Jedi order, did you just go straight to showbiz?" Rex inquired, his curiosity evident in his tone.

Beka paused, memories of her past flooding back as she reflected on her journey. "I started as a janitor," she began, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "But then, one day, Finis overheard me singing." She recalled the moment vividly, the echo of her voice filling the empty auditorium as she sang from the depths of her soul. "He approached me and offered me an opportunity," she continued, a hint of wonder in her voice as she remembered the unexpected turn her life had taken.

"Doesn't seem like you enjoy it," Rex added, his voice filled with empathy as he observed Beka's expression.

Beka sighed softly, her gaze distant as she contemplated Rex's observation. "I did at first," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "But it just got easier to hide under this mask, to stay hidden from the Empire." Beka rubbed the mask with her thumb, while looking down at its features. She paused, her thoughts drifting back to her encounter with Hunter and the flood of emotions it had stirred within her. "When I saw Hunter again, it just reminded me of what I left behind, how much I regret it," she confessed, her voice faltering slightly. "Though I will always love singing."

Rex nodded in understanding, a silent gesture of support as he placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. As they continued their journey, night fell suddenly. The desert air turning cold and harsh as they arrived near a small dome house, its silhouette stark against the darkening sky.

"This is getting bad, Beka. We need to find shelter," Rex urged, concern evident in his voice as he glanced at the horizon where the sandstorm loomed ominously.

"There," Beka pointed to the dome house ahead, relief washing over her as they approached.

As a sudden sandstorm approached, they hurriedly knocked on the door, seeking refuge from the impending tempest. The wind began to howl, carrying with it a veil of swirling sand that threatened to engulf them. The door opened slightly, a precautionary measure to prevent as much sand as possible.

"So sorry to disturb you this late at night," Rex explained, his words barely audible over the roar of the storm. "We just need shelter for tonight."

"Come in," the owner said, opening the door to welcome them inside, his voice a beacon of warmth amidst the howling winds.

"Thank you," Rex said, reaching for a few credits to offer in gratitude.

"No, no," the man waved them away, his expression kind as he ushered them further into the safety of the house.

"Owen?" a young woman's voice called out, holding a sleeping bundle in her arms, her features illuminated by the soft glow of the lights.

"Beru, we have guests," Owen responded, his tone gentle as he motioned for them to enter further into the warmth of the house, away from the biting cold of the storm.

"Oh my, please come sit and eat. You must be hungry," Beru said warmly, her smile inviting as she gestured for them to take a seat at the table, where a steaming pot of stew awaited them, its aroma filling the air with a comforting fragrance, "It's not much but I hope it will do."

Beka nodded gratefully at Beru and Owen's hospitality. "Thank you," she said sincerely, accepting the bowl of soup with a small smile.

Rex echoed her sentiment, nodding appreciatively as he took his own portion of the meal. "We truly appreciate your generosity," he added, his voice reflecting genuine gratitude for the warmth and sustenance provided by their hosts.

"We know the desert night can be very dangerous," the young woman said, her arms cradling a young child. "My name is Beru, and this is my husband, Owen Lars."

"I'm Rebekath Hardt, and this is Rex, and Sprig," Beka introduced, her gaze lingering on the child in Beru's arms. Something about him stirred a sense of hope within her, a whisper of possibility in the Force.

Sprig stayed close to Beka. As they finished their meal, Beru rose from her seat, her expression filled with warmth and hospitality. "Would you like some more soup?" she offered, gesturing towards the pot simmering on the stove.

Beka smiled gratefully, touched by Beru's generosity. "No, no thank you," she replied, "It was delicious."

Beru nodded in response to Beka's kind words, as she acknowledged the gratitude expressed by their guests.

"What brings you out here?" Owen inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"We're searching for a friend," Rex replied carefully, choosing his words with caution.

"A friend?" Owen asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

"An old friend. We heard he might be here," Beka explained.

"Does this friend have a name?" Owen pressed, his interest now fully engaged.

But before Beka and Rex could answer, the cries of the young boy interrupted them.

"Shh, it's okay, Luke," Beru murmured, attempting to soothe the child.

Beka stood up, a sense of empathy guiding her actions. "May I?" she asked, extending her arms towards the child.

With cautious tenderness, Beru placed the child in Beka's arms, and Beka began to sing him a lullaby. Almost immediately, the child's cries subsided, replaced by a sense of calm.

Beru and Owen stared in astonishment. "He's been crying like that for hours on days on end," Owen said, his voice tinged with gratitude.

"I think he's been having nightmares," Beka suggested, sensing the disturbance in the Force. She gently handed the child back to Beru.

"You're some kind of miracle worker," Beru smiled, her eyes reflecting a mixture of relief and wonder.

"I'm just good with kids," Beka smiled modestly.

As Beru excused herself, Owen turned to the two visitors. "I can guide you to the nearest town in the morning. Maybe you can find your friend there," he offered.

"We greatly appreciate that," Rex smiled gratefully.

"I'll go get the guest room ready," Owen said as he excused himself.

"Do you think we'll find him?" Rex asked Beka, his tone filled with uncertainty.

"I don't know," Beka answered honestly, her expression thoughtful.

"The guest room is made up. I'm sorry to cut this short, but I do need to rise early," Owen said upon his return.

"Thank you, Mr. Lars," Rex began.

"Please, call me Owen," Owen interrupted with a warm smile.

"Owen, thank you for your hospitality," Rex said, returning the smile.

As Beka and Rex made their way to the guest room, they were surprised to find only one bed and a lounge couch.

"We should have told him," Beka began, her voice tinged with regret.

"No, no, I'll take the lounge. It's probably more comfortable than where I've been sleeping lately," Rex insisted.

As the two settled in for the night, a presence lingered nearby, its intentions unknown. When they woke up, they were greeted by the warm smell of food.

"How did you sleep?" Beru smiled, her eyes filled with kindness as she welcomed them to the new day.

Beka looked at Rex, who was rubbing his neck as he stretched, and couldn't help but smirk. "I'd say pretty good," she teased the captain.

As they settled down at the table across from Owen, Beru placed plates of food in front of them, her smile radiant with hospitality.

"Thank you, this looks delicious," Rex expressed his gratitude sincerely, his appetite whetted by the tempting aroma of the meal.

"I'm going to head into town; maybe your friend will be there," Owen suggested. Then, he glanced at the cleaned-up droid and added, "Gave your droid an oil bath. Hope that helps," Owen informed them, noting the droid's cheerful beeps in response.

"Thank you," Beka responded, her appreciation evident. "Is there anything we can do to repay you?"

"You helped Luke with his nightmares; that's more than enough payment," Beru laughed warmly, her eyes reflecting genuine gratitude for Beka's kindness towards their nephew.

As they finished eating, Beka offered to help Beru with the dishes, eager to contribute to the household chores in gratitude for their hospitality.

"So, this friend of yours, what would he be doing out here?" Owen asked, his curiosity piqued by their mission.

"Honestly, sir, I don't even know," Rex admitted, his expression sincere as he shared their uncertainty.

"I know you're a clone," Owen began, addressing Rex directly.

"I'm not like the others," Rex responded, his voice firm with conviction as he asserted his individuality.

"I know if you wanted to kill us or take us to the Empire, you would have done it by now. But your friend, what's her story?" Owen pressed further, his interest piqued by their clandestine circumstances.

"Honestly, sir, on the run. We're not well-liked by the Empire," Rex explained, his words laden with the weight of their shared struggles and the dangers they faced as fugitives.

Owen's gaze lingered on Rex for a moment, his expression thoughtful as he processed the revelation. "I see," he said finally, his tone tinged with a mixture of curiosity and understanding. He looked at Beka, who was now playing with his nephew Luke, a sense of urgency creeping into his expression. "We better make our way to town," he remarked.

Beka stood up and turned to Beru, her smile warm with gratitude. "Thank you for your hospitality," she expressed sincerely. Beru returned the smile, her eyes reflecting warmth and understanding as she nodded in acknowledgment. Before leaving, Beka left a few credits on the table as a token of their appreciation.

Owen led Rex, Beka, and Sprig towards town in his transport, the two following closely behind on their speeders. As they approached the outskirts, they diverged paths and commenced scanning the area meticulously, their eyes keen for any trace of their elusive friend amidst the bustling surroundings.

"Can you use that Jedi trick to trace him?" Rex whispered, his voice barely audible above the din of the bustling town.

Beka glanced at Rex, her brow furrowing slightly at the mention of the Jedi trick. "It doesn't work like that," she whispered back, her voice barely audible over the rustle of the wind. "But I can try to sense his presence in the Force."

Rex nodded, his eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of their elusive quarry. "Anything's worth a shot at this point," he replied, his tone tinged with a note of determination.

With that, they continued their journey towards the town, their senses alert and their minds focused on the task at hand. As they walked, Beka reached out with her feelings, probing the currents of the Force for any trace of their friend's presence. Suddenly, a flicker of recognition flashed through her mind, a distant echo of familiarity that sent a shiver down her spine. "I think I sense something," she murmured, her voice barely audible even to Rex's keen ears.

Rex turned to her, his eyes wide with anticipation. "What is it?" he asked, his voice tinged with excitement.

Beka closed her eyes, her focus honed on the faint whisper of the Force. "I'm not sure," she admitted, her brow furrowing in concentration. "But I think... I think he's close. Very close." As she delved deeper into her connection with the Force, a sudden vision emerged, revealing a man looking over the Lars' home from a cave. The revelation sent waves of shock through Beka's mind. "He's been in the caves the whole time.

"Are you sure?" Rex asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Beka nodded, her eyes still closed as she focused on the vision that had revealed their friend's whereabouts. "I'm sure," she replied, her voice tinged with a sense of urgency. "We have to act fast."

With a determined nod, Rex sprang into action, his resolve palpable as he leaped onto his speeder with a sense of purpose. He revved the engine, the roar of the motor echoing through the desert landscape, signaling his readiness to follow Beka's lead. Together, they raced across the sandy terrain, the wind whipping against their faces as they closed in on their destination with unwavering determination. As they approached the caves overlooking the Lars' home, Beka and Rex slowed their speeders to a halt. Dismounting with practiced ease, they scanned the area with sharp eyes, searching for any signs of movement amidst the rugged landscape. With precision and skill, they disabled the sensor alarm guarding the entrance and ventured inside the makeshift shelter, their senses on high alert. Beside them, the droid, Sprig, emitted soft beeps, its sensors keen and alert, ready to assist in any way possible as they delved deeper into the mysterious caves.

"He's not here," Rex observed, his gaze sweeping over the makeshift living quarters with a sense of disappointment.

Beka nodded in agreement, her expression determined as she settled onto the ground and began to meditate. "We'll wait," she said, her voice calm but resolute. "He'll return soon enough."

And so, they waited, the minutes stretching into hours as they kept a silent vigil over the Lars' home.

As the stars danced in the sky above, Beka and Rex remained steadfast in their resolve, united in their quest to find their friend and bring him back into the fold. For in the darkness of the desert night, they knew that hope still burned bright, lighting the way towards a future filled with possibility and promise.

Many hours later...

"I knew I would have been found eventually," came a calm voice, breaking the silence that had settled over the cave.

Beka's gaze remained fixed ahead, her posture unwavering as she addressed the newcomer. "Hello, Obi-Wan," she greeted, her voice steady despite the tumult of emotions swirling within her.

Obi-Wan acknowledged her with a nod of recognition. "Master Rebekath," he replied, his tone tinged with a note of respect for the Jedi Master before him. With his scruffy beard and longer hair, he appeared tired yet resolute, the weariness evident in the lines etched on his face.

Rex emerged from his hiding place, his presence a reassuring presence in the dimly lit chamber. "General," he greeted, his voice firm as he stood at attention before Obi-Wan.

The Jedi Master returned Rex's greeting with a nod of acknowledgment, his expression unreadable as he observed the scene unfolding before him. "Rex," he replied simply. Suddenly, a series of beeps and whistles cut through the air, drawing Obi-Wan's attention to the droid that stood nearby. "And I don't know you," he remarked, his gaze shifting to the mechanical droid with a mixture of curiosity and intrigue.

Beka offered a small smile in response to Obi-Wan's observation. "He goes by Sprig," she explained, her voice warm with affection for her loyal companion.

Obi-Wan nodded, his gaze returning to Beka as he settled beside her. "I thought you were," he began, his words trailing off as he waited for an explanation.

"I thought the same," Beka replied, her tone tinged with a sense of resignation.

Obi-Wan nodded in understanding, his expression sympathetic as he listened to Beka's words. "Why are you here?" he inquired, his voice gentle but probing.

Beka sighed, her gaze drifting towards the direction of the Lars' home. "I had to know what really happened," she admitted, her voice tinged with a hint of regret.

Obi-Wan's eyes followed hers, his gaze lingering on the distant horizon as he contemplated the weight of their shared history. "We were all deceived," he began, his voice heavy with the burden of the past. His voice resonated with solemnity as he recounted the tragic saga to Beka, his eyes reflecting the weight of the memories he carried. Beka listened intently, her expression a mix of empathy and sorrow as she absorbed the gravity of Obi-Wan's narrative. She could feel the pain and anguish that permeated his words, the scars of his past etched deep into his soul.

As Obi-Wan spoke of Padmé's tragic fate and the treachery of the clones, Beka's heart ached for the Jedi Master and all those who had suffered in the wake of the Order's fall. She could sense the burden of guilt and regret that weighed heavily upon him, yet she also detected a flicker of resilience and determination in his eyes.

Beka nodded, her thoughts turning to the friends she had lost and the mysteries that still remained unresolved. "The boy is his son?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she sought confirmation of her suspicions.

Obi-Wan nodded solemnly, his expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. "I have to stay here and protect him," he declared, his voice filled with determination.

"General," Rex began, his tone hesitant as he addressed the Jedi Master before him.

But before Rex could say another word, Beka interjected, her voice firm with resolve. "I know you two have a lot to talk about," she said, her gaze shifting between Obi-Wan and Rex.

As she turned away, a voice came in through her comlink, breaking the tense atmosphere that had settled over the cave. "Beka? Beka!" Hunter's panicked voice echoed through the chamber, sending a jolt of adrenaline through Beka's veins.

"Hunter?" Beka answered, her voice tinged with concern as she listened to her friend's distress call.

"Omega, Lon, and Isaac were taken," Hunter exclaimed, his words sending a chill down Beka's spine.

Beka glanced at Rex and Obi-Wan, her heart heavy with the weight of the news. "Take my ship," Obi-Wan offered, his voice filled with urgency as he urged Beka to act.

"But," Beka started, her mind racing with the implications of what Hunter had just revealed.

"Your friend needs you," Obi-Wan insisted, his gaze unwavering as he met Beka's eyes with a look of understanding.

Beka turned to Rex, her expression torn between duty and loyalty. "Rex?" she asked, seeking reassurance from her steadfast companion.

"No, Beka, I need to stay. There is stuff that I have to help with," Rex said, his voice filled with conviction as he affirmed his commitment to their cause.

"But Rex, I can't risk you getting caught up in this," Beka protested, her concern evident in her voice as she glanced at him.

"I have unresolved matters that require my attention, matters that are just as important," Rex replied, his tone resolute. "There are still people out there who need my help, and I can't turn my back on them."

Beka nodded, understanding the depth of Rex's dedication. "Just promise me you'll be careful," she said. Rex nodded in assurance. With a nod of acceptance, Beka offered Rex a supportive smile. "Alright then, but if you need anything, you know where to find me," she said, her voice soft yet determined.

Beka started to make her way towards the ship with Sprig following close behind. "May the Force be with you," Obi-Wan said, his voice echoing through the chamber as Beka prepared to depart.

"May the Force be with you," Beka responded, her words a solemn vow to uphold the Jedi teachings and honor the sacrifices of those who had come before her. With a final glance back at Rex and Obi-Wan, she boarded the ship and set course for the unknown, her heart filled with determination and her spirit guided by the light of the Force.

[kuiilandtorch]

For the Author Commentary, a few snippets, all from A different kind of blood! (One from each chapter instead of a huge slug :P)

ch 1 Finishing his ministrations, Luke wiped the sticky, pungent residue of bacta from his hands and stowed the supplies back into the medkit.  Placing it back into his bag, he pulled out the canteen of water and considered how to compose his next offer, since all he had to go on were assumptions drawn from Grogu’s memories and the context of their parting on the cruiser.  In all of Grogu’s experiences, at least the ones he’d imparted to Luke, the Mandalorian had always worn his helmet, even on occasions where other parts of his armor were removed.  The fact that Grogu had asked to see his father’s face before leaving with Luke meant that he had never seen it. The Mandalorian’s decision to grant his son’s request had likely been as sacrificial as his choice to surrender him to Luke. Just for once…let me look on you with my own eyes. And Luke hadn’t turned away from it then, too caught up in his own memories and fighting to wrestle them under control, lest he show weakness at a crucial moment. ch 2 He’d promised Grogu he’d see him again, and while knowing it was at best a placating lie to comfort the child, perhaps one he’d forget if enough time passed, Din did not give his word lightly.  That was one thread he could grasp.  He’d thrown away his honor for the life of his foundling, and no matter how deeply the Creed was etched into his mind and spirit, somehow he could not imagine a universe in which it mattered more than that. ch 3 Grogu squealed with glee and made grabby hands for the canister, and Luke sighed in amusement.  “I guess Yoda didn’t have bad taste because he lived in a swamp, he just had bad taste.”  That you share, kiddo, he thought, but charitably kept that to himself.  He supposed he was one to talk — he thought womp rat tasted just fine in Aunt Beru’s stew, but he knew people outside Tatooine would be disgusted.  “We should probably take this outside so we don’t stink it up in here.”  He could see now, peering down into the canister, that it held some kind of fermented fish, which explained the intense odor. Sitting out on the walkway, Luke settled for some more of his own jerky, though the reeking fish had stolen any appetite he might have had.  He only kept up appearances so that Grogu wouldn’t be distracted from enjoying his meal.  The child tucked into the canister with gusto, digging his claws into the fishmeal, and Luke hoped he wouldn’t get it onto his smock, though he knew he probably wouldn’t be that lucky.  Unless Luke successfully managed to clean him up in whatever facilities were available in the room given to them, Din was going to have a very noxious son on his hands. “Did you know I went nineteen years without ever tasting fish?” Luke said, just to make idle conversation.  “The first time I ever tried some, I couldn’t get enough.  It was like the first time I’d seen rain and puddles of water after growing up in the desert where there was nothing but sand everywhere.”

OK- *rolling up sleeves*

Ch. 1: I will forever foam at the mouth at all the missed opportunities in the S2 finale, and the fact that we have to imply them ourselves. Like, don't even think about the crack shipping for a second, THEY MADE MR. STAR WAR HIMSELF STAND IN FRONT OF A GUY TAKING HIS HELMET OFF FOR HIS KID, SHARING THIS BLATANTLY EMOTIONAL MOMENT, AND YOU EXPECT ME TO BUY THAT HE TOOK THAT WITH A DEAD-INSIDE STRAIGHT CGI FACE?????????

That was the biggest, most painfully obvious parallel and all jokes aside, it would not have stolen the thunder from Din and Grogu connecting and it would have only enriched the moment to take a second to show Luke's facade cracking to show the haunted, bittersweet joy and grief you know he had to have been feeling witnessing this. No matter how many versions of this scene I rewrite into different WIPs, I always have to include this framing because it's essential and inescapable to me. Luke survived and the galaxy was saved because his father ultimately chose selfless love, and he saw that beauty again; he was inadvertently included in this extremely intimate, powerful moment and it's such a profound honor. And he had to hold himself together because he knew this guy giving up his kid was devastated enough, he didn't need the stranger he was trusting with Grogu to fall apart too. (At least, that's what he tells himself.)

That's really the driving motivation Luke has to do what he does for Din in this story - yes, he wants to be a compassionate Jedi, but like his father, Luke holds strong loyalty and love for specific people, and while he wouldn't or doesn't want to name it as such at this time, Luke already loves this man on a soul-deep level for being a selfless father to this traumatized child, even if he knows nothing about him, and if he can show kindness to him in any small way, he'll do it. He wants Din to feel appreciated for everything he had to go through and give up.

Ch. 2: ok here's the thing-

I get the face-value notion that when Din said those words, he really was determined to see Grogu again. For me personally, I think something very very important about the S2 finale - removed from anything that came afterwards - is viewing it through the lens of Din and Grogu mutually agreeing they need to separate for their own good, no matter how painful it is. Yes, we see Grogu being sad and clinging to Din's leg, but he's a kid, it's understandable, yet he's showing great maturity in being willing and ready to leave with the Jedi. He's the one who urges Din to let in whoever's on the other side of the blast doors. He's the one who mentally informs Luke that he wants Din's permission, not that he's resisting departure. And as badly as Din's heart is breaking, I think the pragmatist in him would be accepting the fact that this was likely the last time he'd ever see Grogu. He would at least be preparing himself for that. It was literally his quest: return the kid to his "kind," and then it's over.

Din is absolutely a man of honor who does his best to keep his word, and if somehow, some way later on he'd get the chance to reunite with Grogu, he wouldn't turn away from it. But I took the view that Din said that more as a reassurance to help Grogu feel better about leaving than anything else. That moment was about Grogu, that was the entire reason for him putting the final nail in the coffin of his creed and taking his helmet off right there, to grant the kid a parting gift of love and respect for his wish. Din realized and accepted that he loved Grogu more than his own soul, regardless of the fact that his own creed does hold children in the utmost importance. If he saw any contradiction in his principles, he was going to fall on the side of preserving an innocent life no matter what the cost, fuck himself and everything else.

But that's why Din was crying in that scene. He felt this was goodbye. He'd fulfilled his obligation, and it was tearing him apart, but this was what needed to happen, this was what was best for Grogu. The kid was still so little; he thought maybe, eventually, if he was content wherever he was, Din would just fade to a blip in his life and Grogu would move on to better things, and that would have to be okay.

The other parallel I don't see talked about nearly as much in this scene is that Din is Shmi Skywalker. Din is ripping his heart out of his chest and handing it over to a Jedi, and being as brave and reassuring as possible to his son to see him walk towards a more promising future, away from strife and misery.

Ch. 3: I COULDN'T NOT GIVE MANDALORIANS SPACE SURSTRÖMMING >:D

And look, for the record, I fall squarely in the "Luke is domestic enough to be functional in a rural capacity because you can't exist on a farm and not know basic useful life skills along with farm chores" camp. No, he's no chef, but he can skin and dress a varmint like nobody's business and make a decent stew and cheese because he wants to keep his aunt's memory alive. No, he's not much of a fashionista and he couldn't make couture, but he sure as fuck knows how to mend shit to keep it going and sew some basic patterns. He's fond of his fair share of pickled and fermented and dried and heavily spiced foods from back home, but nothing on Tatooine can touch Mando space surströmming, that's for sure. XD

I love to showcase Luke idly telling Grogu silly anecdotes about himself and trying to inject some fun into Jedi teaching because he just wants to make this kid happy, and it buoys him to see Grogu being happy at whatever, even if it's super stinky fish.

[sassysnowperson]

kittysmithman replied to your post “I would love to see your answers for absolutely every one of those...”

Your back burner ideas have me in agony knowing I'll have to wait. Anytime you say something has developed into a robust world I'm ready to bust out the champagne. Also I don't even care if it has a plot I NEED the force bonded fic

Well, here’s what I’ve got of the psychictwins AU so far. Like I said, no idea for where it GOES, just an introduction, basically:

Leia couldn't remember a time when she hadn't been in conversation. There was always someone to talk to. Mama, Papa, of course. The kind lady with the bright eyes that watched her in the morning. The silly lady with the sad eyes that came at night.

And always, always, the clear voice in the back of her head that she understood since before she knew what words even were.

"It's dumb," the voice said, and Leia was inclined to agree.

"Forks don't matter," the voice pressed.

"They matter to these people," she said without words, picking up the right fork to eat a fish.

"Then they're dumb too."

Privately, Leia agreed. Adults could be very stupid about what they found important. But she wasn't sure she liked anyone else criticizing her adults. "What if it matters to me?"

"It doesn't," the voice said with certainty, and she supposed he was right.

Continued Under Cut: 

Really, it was amazing that she made it to five-and-a-quarter without anyone noticing.

"Where is the place with all the sand?" Leia asked Papa.

"The...beach?" Papa asked. Like all adults, he could be very dumb sometimes.

"Not water." Leia said, rolling her eyes. "Luke says there's no water. Just sand. Where is it?"

She didn't understand why Papa started coughing. Or why he pulled Mama away right after. Or why, three days later, Luke's voice sounded scared.

"There's a man here I've never met before. I thought I knew everyone. He looks worried. He wants to talk to me. I don't think I want to talk to him."

Leia knew how to handle these sorts of situations. "If he gives you creepy feelings, scream loudly and find an adult."

"The adults are the ones that want me to talk to him."

Leia's confidence deflated. "You might have to, then."

"I'm hiding for now, but they're going to think to check the roof sooner or later." He paused for a second. "Sooner. That was fast."

And then he went quiet. For a long time. An itchy long time, it scratched at her brain.

"Luke?" There was only nothing, an emptiness in a space that had always been filled. "LUKE!"

Leia didn't find Luke. She found a curtain. A blanket. It shimmered in her mind, a shadow studded with silver—cutting off the place where Luke's voice lived. She could press against it. If she pushed hard enough for long enough there was the faintest soundsmelltaste of Luke.

Leia didn't know how to be alone. So she picked at the blanket. Curtain. Wall.

Her father watched her, looking worried. "You seem sad, mija."

"Luke is quiet."

Papa looked relieved, not sad, and Leia made several realizations all at once.

Luke went quiet because of the man. Papa knew. He made this happen

He wanted this to happen.

He was happy Leia was sad

Leia was so angry.

She learned she could lie. "But I'm sure I'll make new friends," she said, with a gravity beyond her years.

Papa smiled. "You will."

She said goodbye, followed the silly lady with the sad eyes back to her room, and threw herself against the blanket.

This time she felt someone push back.

"Luke!"

She dragged her hands in circles (not hands, not here, but she was only used to her outside body, not this inside one she was building)

She felt something slide against her hands. She chased the movement, it chased back, until they reached a spot where things felt thinner and pushed *through* slipping between the weave of the fabric across their minds.

"Luke!"

A flash of shining gold wrapped himself around her. "Leia! You're so bright!"

"I'm sorry, Leia babbled, feeling guilty. "It's my fault the man made you quiet—"

"He made you quiet, after I told him about you!"

"I shouldn't have told—"

"I shouldn't have—"

"This time we don't tell anyone anything!" they said at the same time.

"Missed you." Luke said, and Leia felt his golden presence nudge her. That was new. Maybe she should thank blanket man. They couldn't do this before.

Leia nudged back. "Missed you too. I almost started caring about forks."

[kyunniebuns]

Sung Jinwoo x Introvert Reader

A/N: I saw hcs of Jinwoo with this type of s/o so I thought abt making my own version:3

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚𝕊𝕦𝕟𝕘 𝕁𝕚𝕟𝕨𝕠𝕠˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

・┆✦ Entry : 002✦ ┆・

“Oh, this is my lov—”

“Babe, why are you hiding in my shadow?”

Well he’s tall so you need to make use of it and part of that is turning him into a hiding spot againt humans.

Humans are disgusting, SHIELD JINWOO FTW /j

He isn’t much of a talker but boy do you amuse him with how desperate you are in escaping socializing. You will yeet away by ALL MEANS NECESSARY. (Dw he comes in for the rescue anyway)

You one time asked if you can just be like his shadows. Jinwoo was so shooketh he stared at you for a period of time before desperately saying: “Babe, babe no. Just no babe.”

Sometimes you make his brain spasm. Rip Jinwoo. But hey’s he’s a simp so he doesnt complain.

He may or may not have a proud moment one time realizing how it’s only him who knows your true colors. Whatever that secret side of you is that only he knows— Man’s just so proud he has a stupid grin on his handsome face **FRUSTRATED NOISES AND SLAPS JINWOO FOR BEING HANDSOME**

He honestly really loves that you lean to him whenever you are anxious. It just shows you trust him a lot that he is the first person you cling onto when you feel threatened. 

Jinwoo sometimes gets into a daze when you do while his hand instinctively pulls you in. When the big boi gets it together he softly rubs your arm /or waist (Whatever tf he can reach with ur height idk) and then he pecks you, whispering gently; “I’m here, dont be scared. Wanna go somewhere else?”

When he’s at work igris, Bellion, and Beru are protecting you, they are skery bois and they shall sker anyone that dares approach their king’s lover. Sometimes Iron is there too, Iron is a clown we love clown Iron.

Sometimes he adds more soldiers if you want to pet them.

His soldiers are your puppies, each of them want your attention hueheheheh. you may be an introvert but CANNOTTT resist these lidol bebes (Shush, we dont talk abt them in battle keep ur mouth shut)

He is always there whenever you are overwhelmed by everything else. He’ll bring you to a quiet place and soothe you there.

Jinwoo would place you on his lap, strong arms embracing you close. Hs embrace is tight but not so tight that you are hurt, just enough to let you know your beloved knight in shining armor is protecting you. He will hum with his lips on your hair and rocking back and forth.

After you calm down, PREPARE FOR THE ALMIGHTY SUNG JINWOO KITH FEAST.

Your hair, your cheeks, your nose the corner of your eyes, under your eyes, the edge of your lips— He will kiss your whole face with sweet kisses. 

If he hears you break into a soft giggle he chuckles along with you and then pulls you even closer to his chest.

Do you hear his heartbeat? It beats for you.

Oh how he just wants to coo at you, ur so precious his heart goes hNGHGHHHH

He will always protect you.

Sung Jinwoo is the world’s strongest hunter and the shadow monarch.

What use are those fancy titles if he cant protect you—

You who is his everything, you who makes him smile even in your littlest ways, may it be stupid or not— Sung Jinwoo loves you and he will cherish you.

He is not only strong for his family and the rest of the world...

But for you. So do keep that in mind<3

ʚ(੭´͈ ᐜ `͈)੭ .｡✧･ﾟ: ~♡ —!  stories written by kyunnie; translations, reposts, plagiarism are strictly forbidden.

[herehavesomeheadcanons]

On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me… 3 Crazy Bastards!

Ah shit, sorry this one's so late! I didn't realize it hadn't scheduled it like I told it to!

Ferid Bathory

🤍♦️You want to celebrate Christmas with him? He’s down! Of course he’ll make time for his favorite pet! He probably knows at least a little bit about Christmas activities, even if he hasn’t fully celebrated it before. He’s sure to make this the most entertaining Christmas in the world!

🤍♦️Ferid goes ALL OUT with the decorations. The day after you mention it to him, there’s gigantic boxes of decorations everywhere. 90% of them are covered in glitter and/or sequins. It’s going to take at least a week to get everything decorated, there is a LOT of mansion to decorate.

🤍♦️Oh he fucking LOVES Christmas music, especially when he can annoy people with it! Catch him singing along to ‘All I Want For Christmas is You’ at full volume, his voice absolutely SHATTERING on the high notes.

🤍♦️Ferid would absolutely love to watch Christmas movies with you! He really just wants another excuse to hold you close and smother you in affection. I recommend Home Alone, a funny movie that might keep him entertained. Be warned, if the movie isn’t enough to keep him interested… Let's just say that neither of you will be doing a whole lot of ‘watching’.

🤍♦️He is absolutely delighted to partake in these silly human traditions! His favorite is definitely the one surrounding mistletoe. He carries some with him everywhere, just to force kisses out of you (he doesn’t need it, he's just being dramatic). Gingerbread houses are also a riot. Everything is a riot, actually. Ferid is just a funny guy. He likes to sneak up behind Crowley and slam-dunk giant snowballs on his head. Crowley does not find this nearly as amusing as you and Ferid do.

Envy

🌴🖤I am so sorry. Envy is the WEIRDEST mix of tsundere and yandere. Of course he doesn’t want to celebrate some stupid human holiday… but don’t you DARE celebrate with anyone else!! It’s honestly so confusing.

🌴🖤This bastard is the laziest decorator in the world. I hope you didn’t want your house to look good, because he kinda just sticks something somewhere and then leaves it there. He has no artistic talent at all.

🌴🖤He HATES Christmas music, unless he happens to be using it to annoy someone else. His usual target is Greed. He is absolutely tone def, and cannot carry a tune to save his life.

🌴🖤Christmas movies are only fun for him if he gets to make fun of literally everything. He’s definitely one of the most annoying characters to watch movies with. Oh, and he’s going to sit on the other side of the couch. He wouldn’t want some filthy human touching him. Definitely not. No he is totally NOT thinking about cuddling you.

🌴🖤Envy doesn’t see the point in a lot of traditions, and he is VERY vocal about it. He especially hates mistletoe. Greed will follow you two around with a fishing pole that has mistletoe tied to the end of it. It drives the palm tree up the wall!

Tsubaki

🖤🦊You are lying to yourself if you think Tsubaki and his gang don’t celebrate Christmas together every year. Prepare for the craziest Christmas of your life!

🖤🦊Decorating is a whole-squad kind of activity. ALL of his besties come over to help out, and it is CHAOS. Beru-Beru had to drag Sakuya by his collar (his SHIRT COLLAR, get your mind out of the gutter). Tsubaki himself has no decorating style, and just sticks everything everywhere. Everything is covered in glitter.

🖤🦊Christmas karaoke is a must. Beru-Beru brings a karaoke machine to their favorite sushi bar (it’s the only place they’re allowed in), and everyone takes turns singing carols. Again, Sakuya does NOT want to be there, but they forced him to because ‘team bonding time’. Tsubaki and Beru-Beru are the ones that dominate Christmas karaoke every year, because they’re just cool like that. They’re not good, they’re just the only ones that REALLY love karaoke. Sometimes Tsubaki gets into a laughing fit in the middle of the song. Oh, and everyone’s drunk by the end of the night.

🖤🦊Tsubaki’s gang has seen every Christmas movie at least twice, but they are all 100% willing to watch them all again. Christmas. Movie. Marathon. I hope you weren’t planning on sleeping! Aside from that, Tsubaki would also love to have a movie night with just the two of you. He thoroughly enjoys cuddles! His hysterical laughing fits make it a little difficult to hear the movie, though!

🖤🦊Gingerbread house competition! Everyone gets their own house, and then they vote on whose is the best. Literally everyone votes for themselves, though, so it isn't much of a competition. There are some… interesting designs. Needless to say, a lot of red frosting is used up. Snowball fights are scary intense. 6 vampires going at it with ice-laced snowballs? Terrifying. I’d sit on the sidelines if I were you. Beru-Beru likes to throw mistletoe at you and Tsubaki, and he also spikes the eggnog. By the end of any Tsubaki Squad Christmas party, everyone is absolutely hammered.