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marierg · 1 year ago

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Of Light and Darkness: The Rising Darkness Pt.3

Pairing: Obi Wan Kenobi X Reader

WARNINGS!: IF YOU ARE EASILY TRIGGERED DO NOT READ THIS ONE!!!!! ANGST! Death, Rage, self doubt, betrayal, portrayals of a psychotic episode! NOT LIGHT READING!!! Also Jango being a lil bit of a tease at the end, stolen kiss but not much more. (@pickleprickle come get yo juice)

A/N: Ok my friends so if you know this story then you know what part we're at. Yes I'm putting Anakin's part on Tattoine in here because it is important, but also I felt that the movie didn't really do enough for that part. I ADORE Hayden and his portrayal, so much body and facial expression to cover the things not said! And yes I also wanted to do just a bit more with Jango because we don't get much of him here to reflect all the lore that comes later. This splits back and forth a lot so I apologize now.

PS- as always if Italic that means telepathic communication.

Picture Credit: Lucasfilm, Pinterest, and Gifs from Tumblr

Song Credit: I won't back down by: Tom Petty (Link)

Words: 6400 ish.... Thick with 2 C's

Masterlist Next

Anakin stood on the balcony overlooking the lake. Listening to the waives crash on the rocks, the birds that flew over head, even the current below the surface of the water seeking the calm of nature. Padme was moving towards him, but even her presence could not quell the pit in his stomach. Horrible visions haunted his mind of his mother sobbing, bloodied and in pain... begging for help that would not come. He knew what must be done, in so doing he would be abandoning both Padme and the mandates of the Order.

But for his mother it was the only thing to do.

Padme's mind and heart were in conflict, they always were where Anakin was concerned. Staring out at him she observed the man and again tried to deny that he had found a place within her heart. Padme's mind constantly clamored against this feeling over and over, begging her to come to reason. Yet when Ani smiled or laughed or even laid the lightest of touches on her... all protest flew out the window. She had hoped that after dinner last night that both of them could move forward as friends, yet even as he stood there she felt that all too familiar pull and who could fight the stars.

Anakin could smell Padme's floral perfume on the air, hear the scrape of her slippers against the marble with every step she took toward him. He knew that he had to be professional, especially after their discussion. She had made clear that the two of them could not be together, that what he longed for was impossible. Anakin had taken his shot, he had been honest and now he knew how she felt. What his Master had failed to tell him was what to do afterward.

“Don't go...” It was a soft request, pain underlying his need for her presence. Anakin opened his eyes to take in the beautiful sunrise... made all the more so by the woman who would forever hold his affections even if it was unrequited.

“I didn't want to disturb you.” Padme was preparing to walk away, but couldn't leave him now.

“Your presence is soothing.”

“You had another nightmare” She sighed as Anakin began to bristle, “I heard you yelling, would you like to talk about it?”

Why did he trust her so readily even though she had shredded his heart not hours before? Anakin sighed in resignation, telling Padme of his awful vision. “She's in pain... I have to help her.”

Padme folded her hands in contemplation. There was no doubt that Anakin had already made a decision, she simply needed to allow him to voice it. Nodding to show she was listening he continued.

“I know that I am disobeying my mandate to protect you Senator...”

Padme winced a little at the use of her title, but reflected that she had set that precedent.

“... and that I will be punished and likely thrown out of the Order. But she's my mother.” Anakin finally raised his eyes to the angel of the stars. She wasn't like the other women he knew, no sarcastic eyebrow or disapproval to mar her beauty, simply serene. “I'm sorry Padme truly, but I must go.”

Padme moved forward taking Anakin's hand. “Ani I told you that I wouldn't let you throwaway your future because of me. I will go with you so that you will not be breaking your mandate.”

“What about Master Obi Wan and Master Y/n?”

Padme squeezed his hand, “I guess we won't tell them will we.”

_____________

“Stargazer to Harbor... Stargazer to Harbor... Come in Harbor?”

Mace acknowledged the transmission, a small holo projection of you and Kenobi appearing before the gathered Jedi Council members. “We read you stargazer, report?”

“Masters we have tracked the Bounty Hunter Jango Fett to the planet Geonosis. More disturbing is that there is a large gathering of Starships from the Trade Federation.” Obi Wan was glancing from port to starboard on the craft.

You piped in while your fellow knight navigated, “Yeah and gave us a good run for our money too.”

“Are you both alright?” Mace could feel the tension rising in his chest. It would never matter how old his apprentice became, you would always be under his protection.

“A few shots across the bow, but Obi Wan got us through.”

Obi Wan tuned, “Masters I fear that our investigation has become all the more complicated. With your permission we would like route out the connection the Trade Federation has to Fett and the clones of Kamino.”

He hated the exhausted edge that laced the voices of both knights. Looking to his colleagues he felt concern and perhaps even a touch of fear. The Republic that had been hard fought and won over a millennia ago was upon the brink disaster. Mace would rather call you both back and regroup, he would rather send out a group of the Council themselves to finish this investigation. At the end of the day though he was the head of the Council and must do what was necessary, his personal feelings be damned. “Proceed with caution, may the Force be with you.”

________________

“She's been gone a month... There's little hope that she's lasted this long.”

The words rang in Anakin's ears as he practically flew the borrowed speeder past breaking point. He'd gotten a lead on the Tusken raiders and the closer he got the more he could feel his mother in the Force. “I'm coming mom, just hold on.”

He would rescue her.

He would not leave her behind again.

_______________

The winding catacombs and tall spires allowed every small noise to echo without fail. Every footstep, every swish of a cloak seemed like the clanging of pans in a library. Your nerves were strung tight, hands reflexively holding your saber hilt. As the two of you wound deeper and deeper into the structure you saw more than enough evidence of why the Trade Federation was here. Line upon assembly line of droids filled the lower levels. Up ahead voices reverberated in the corridor, Obi Boy pulled you back to the safety of the shadows. “Obi what are they saying I can't hear it?”

“It would appear that Nute Gunray and whoever is contracting with the Geonosians is the one who put out the contract on our friend the Senator.” Obi Wan glanced down at the scaring around your right ear, yet another mission souvenir along with the associated hearing loss normally you were able to compensate, the fact that you weren't went to show your level of exhaustion. “I think we'd best go up top.”

“Did you see who?”

“Not yet, but I could hear them.”

Obi Wan could feel the blood lust radiating from Nute Gunray as he spoke about where he would like best to display Senator Amidala's head in his office. As the two Knights crept to an overhanging ledge the conversation became clearer. Representatives of the Banking Clan and Techno Union were sat at a large table and at the head sat none other than Master Dooku. While Obi Wan was shocked he could feel disgust and anger from you, pebbles were clattering from the ripples you sent through the Force, “Wee one we need to remain calm. Focus.”

“That karking traitor!”

Dooku watched with mild amusement as the various beings at the table squabbled and bantered, all pawns on his game board. Long ago he learned that a bit of theater and patience make the negotiation. Dooku also knew that most of the beings gathered here did so for the benefit of their own pockets and not some true disillusionment with the government. Behind him Fett was standing alert if not somewhat perturbed, a deep sigh passing the vocorder of his helmet. Waiving a hand Dooku cut into the bickering, “AS I said earlier gentlemen, I am convinced that 10,000 more systems will rally to our cause with your support.”

“We need to report in.”

Obi Wan raised a finger, begging you be patient, “Not yet, there's more to be heard I believe, we will be patient.”

“Not my strong suit.”

“...The Banking Clan will sign your treaty.”

Dooku smiled, nodding a show of appreciation. “When the battle droids of our friends with the Trade Federation are combined with yours we shall have an army greater than any in the galaxy. The Jedi will be overwhelmed.”

As the meeting came to a close Dooku turned to the hunter behind him. “I believe some acquaintances of yours have arrived. Please see our new guests to more... suitable accommodations.”

“I doubt that they'll accept your hospitality.”

He smiled at the man's dry humor. Fett was good, very good in fact, with more than a few Jedi kills under his belt in addition to his lengthy reputation. These two knights were quite the wily pair, but he had little doubt that the hunter could handle the task. The information that he had brought back alone was worth observing the two further. All was playing out as he had foreseen and soon the trap would be baited, “Wait until they have transmitted their report to Coruscant then bring them to me, alive please.”

Fett tilted his helmet, annoyance rippled around him. He was an intelligent being though and knew better than to disobey. After all, Fett would never want his precious son to come to harm. Turning on his heel the hunter paused before stalking into the catacombs.

“As you wish.”

________________

Anakin moved through the hole into the Tusken shelter and his heart stopped beating. His mother hung limply from the poles that had been used to secure her for the night. Bruising, lacerations... far too many injuries to count as he angrily tore at the bindings, she was still alive though. Carefully he lowered her frail, pained body to the ground.

Anakin wanted to cry, choking on his words, “Mom... Mom it's me.”

“Ani?” Shmi tried to blink, as if searching in the dead of space for something familiar. Her trembling hand finally landing on a warm cheek, smile spreading as her son pressed his own hand to hers. “Ani is it you?”

He longed to crush her to him, but Anakin could feel the pain radiating from her. He could barely breath from being so overwhelmed, lips trembling as he pressed a tender kiss to her palm. “I'm here mom, I'm here. Everything will be alright now.”

“My son... my grown up son.” Wistful smile tugging weakly at her lips, how Shmi wished this had happened differently. Oh but he had grown up so well, the Jedi had done as promised and taken such good care of him.

“Hold on a little longer mom,” Anakin shifted to begin standing but froze as his mother gasped in pain, “Please... please mom, just stay with me.”

“So handsome...My boy is grown, now I am complete.”

Anakin could feel the flickering in her signature, like a candle caught in a storm. No no no, he had to save her! What good was being a Jedi if he couldn't save his mother. He tried to calm himself, readying again to get up and take his mom away from this place. “Just stay with me a little longer mom, I'm going to make you well again. Padme's here, we'll take you to Naboo, it's so beautiful mom. I'll call Master y/n and she'll make everything better.”

“Ah, my son... I'm so... proud of you...tell me more,” Shmi knew she was dying, but at last she felt peace. She knew her passing would pain her son greatly, but maybe she could distract him for just a bit and slip away quietly.

Anakin cursed that he couldn't simply heal his mother like his Master could. Why hadn't he pushed himself harder to learn, why hadn't you?! Why did his Masters hold him back?! He wanted to scream, to rage but his mom needed him, he had to give her something to fight for. “It's so beautiful mom, green and full of lakes and streams. There's so many things I want to show you... we can all go mom.”

“Ani... I love... I love... you.” Shmi Skywalker slipped away peacefully in her son's arms, the wisp of a lake and Anakin's smile her final vision of comfort.

“Mom don't go, please.... please....” He felt the minute that her signature rejoined the greater Force itself. Like a genie in a bottle that could not be put back, Anakin clutched the mortal remains of his mother to him.

Cold despair washed over Anakin and into his heart. He had failed her... he had failed his mother, the one who had brought him into the world and protected him for nine long years. How often had she gone without to provide for him, shielded him. All that he ever knew of love was from this one woman and he had let her slip right through his fingers. How could she be gone? How could the galaxy allow her to die?

Then the cold was replaced by something so seductively warm and comforting. It's treacherous feeling taking the place of the emptiness that filled him. It whispered falsehood disguised as words of solace, at least he felt something in the gaping bleeding hole in his chest. No, it wasn't his fault. Anakin had done his best, it was the Tuskens that had killed his mother. The Tuskins had captured her, beaten her, starved and worked her to death.

They were animals

They weren't even humanoid

They were mindless monsters like his step father had said

AND HE WOULD MAKE THEM PAY FOR WHAT THEY HAD DONE!

Anakin placed his mother's body down on the floor gently, removing his cloak to cover her. He may not have been able to save her, but he could avenge her memory and see that these beasts harmed no one else. Rising with his fury to keep him warm, Anakin clutched at the handle of his saber. He felt the Force surge through him and it felt so good in the midst of his despair. He no longer felt powerless, he felt in control. Walking out of the hut he sliced down the guards quickly without a flinch. Hearing the other warriors coming to fight Anakin welcomed it.

Today... today his mother would have justice for all of her suffering.

In the words of his dear friend, for the ones he loved he would to do terrible things.

And just as Glitch had also said, he would never forgive himself.

____________

You were trying to keep up with Obi Wan as he ran ahead of you. This intel needed to get back to the Council and the Senate quickly to avert disaster, damn your short legs. As the two of you approached the starfighter a scream was ripped from your chest, crumpling your body to the ground.

“Y/N!” Obi Wan turned on a pin sprinting back to your collapsed convulsing form. He held you to his chest to try to muffle your cries of agony, reaching for you through your bond. “Y/n, what is it wee one? Talk to me please?”

Obi Boy's voice sounded distant even in your mind, his normally soothing presence could not ease this jagged pain in your heart. Nor could it silence the voice crying out from beyond the grave. You must be going mad, finally snapped from too much stress and stims. But there was no denying who that voice belonged to....

“Y/n what is it?” Obi Wan took a sharp inhale as your eyes flew wild and wide, panicked breaths finally starting to slow. He tried to brush the tears forming at the corners of your eyes. “Y/n it's alright, I have you.”

“P-p-pain... Anakin...He's in pain.”

“Y/n you need to breath with me, calm yourself. We'll go to him straight away, but first I need you with me.” He saw as your pained face nodded, breathing starting to even. You were scared and that frightened him knowing it took a lot to shake you. But he also knew you well enough to redirect your racing thoughts, “We know that the transmitter won't get out of the canyon, can you climb with the booster to that cliff ledge so I can relay?”

“I can do that. Yeah, I can climb.” Scrambling up you could still feel the recoil and pain in the Force, but Obi Boy was right. As badly as you wanted to get in the fighter and get to your Padawan there were more pressing matters at hand. The needs of the many verses the needs of the few and in the end you knew your obligation was to the greater number. It was the simple and terrible math of triage, there were always more whom needed your help. Sweet merciful Maker forgive you... Anakin forgive you... but it had to be done. Checking the horizon you steadied the booster.

“R-4 relay this message to Coruscant, top priority and continue relay until acknowledged,” Obi Wan watched as you gave the thumbs up. R-4 however still was unable to boost the signal enough due to the damage. “Try to reach Anakin on Naboo...What do you mean he's not there?”

On the ledge above, you could only partly make out what was being shouted at the poor little astromech, but then you heard the word Tattoine clearly enough. “Obi what's happened?”

“The boy has decided to go for a joy ride it would appear... we'll deal with this later.” Instructing the droid to start Obi Wan began his message, “Anakin if you can hear me re transmit this message to the Council....”

_______________

Mace had been uneasy since Yoda had come out of seclusion, stating that one of their fallen had somehow reached out through the Force and that Skywalker was in anguish. He could feel a shift, something turning in the lines of fate... a shaterpoint was about to be crossed. The garbled transition from Kenobi gave no clue to your fate but he could only assume that you were taken prisoner alongside your fellow Jedi. Already there were members of the Order rallying and ready to leave, along with some old friends.

Listening to the Senate finally approve the use of the clone army, however suspect their origins, Mace turned to his Senior Council member. “It is done but the army will need time to assemble. I will take what knights we have here and lead the mission to Geonosis.”

“To Kamino will I go, bring this new army to meet you I will. Trust in our knights, trust in the Force. proof of these troops metal, we shall see.” Yoda studied the eyes of the man before him, stormy and hard as a mountain in winter. While many found Master Windu to be hard and unyielding, few realized the reason for it. It was not that he did not care... no, it was that he cared deeply. Always standing tall between the Order and what storms may come, but even a mountain would weep if it's larks were no longer there to sing their songs. “Master Windu save our captured knights, we will.”

Mace clenched his jaw, knowing that the future was uncertain for all. Nodding and with a sweep of his cloak he made his way down to the speeder where two old friends waited. On a mission like this the Jedi could use all the help they could get. Turning to the old pilot and the pink haired hell fighter, Mace took a steadying breath and prayed the Force that you still breathed.

“We're going to get them back."

______________

“They'll never make it in time, they have to come halfway across the galaxy. We're only a parsec away...”

“If they're still alive,” Anakin sat heavily in the co pilot's chair, folding his arms if only to hold himself together. First his mother now his Masters, what did the universe wish of him? Would it not be happy till every one of the people he cared for was dead. In that moment Anakin was glad that Padme did not love him, maybe she would be spared.

“Ani are you just going to sit there and let them die? They're your Masters, your mentors...”

“They're my family!” Anakin's anger snapped. He closed his eyes trying to find a level of calm like the two of you had taught him. If Master Obi Wan were here he would remind Anakin that the Senator's safety was his primary mission and you would want both he and Padme to be safe. If his Masters were here they would both tell him that the mission came first, as much as he wanted to fly there and save you both. “But you heard Master Windu. He gave us strict orders to stay put.”

“He gave you orders to protect me and I'm going to save Obi Wan and Y/n.” She started flipping toggles and switches, set in her decision. “So if you plan to protect me, you'll just have to tag along.”

Anakin couldn't help the relief that washed over him, nor the smile of admiration. Padme always found a way, no matter the odds his Angel always found a way. Turning in his seat he began the launch sequence, “Yes Ma'am”

“That's more like it.” Padme tilted her head to check that C-3PO and R2 were safely aboard. It was good to hear Ani sounding like himself and not the despaired broken person of a few hours before. At least it was a sign that he may yet recover from the death of his mother, even if the actions he had confessed to would haunt him. Padme knew Anakin must have fought his way in and out of that camp, collateral damage was bound to happen. Because that was what it must have been...

it had to be.

________________

The electric currents shot painfully through your body again as your captors questions remained unanswered. You had been able to escape initial capture, but were caught by the Geonosians after trying to retrieve Obi Wan.

You would both pay for the error.

Admittedly the odds were not in your favor, you managed to disable a majority with a gas explosion, sliced the wings off many others. In the end though you had been taken kicking, biting, cursing, and screaming and placed in the interrogators beam.

Master, no Count Dooku was standing before you calmly asking again why you and Obi Wan were there. The tone was the same that he had used when students disappointed him in training. But this was not the same Master whom had tutored you, no this was a different man and no longer a Jedi. Gritting your teeth you started to mumble the words to a song that was a favorite of Master Melri, one that all to well fit the situation.

“Well, I won't back down

no, I won't back down

you can stand me up at the gates of hell

but I wont back down”

“Y/n this can all be over if you would only tell me the reason for your presence here.” Dooku could hear the off key singing, noting the lyrics as your reply. Interrogation rarely resulted in the desired information and it wasted time. Not that he wanted nor needed to perform this exercise, least of all with Obi Wan. His Grand Padawan may yet be of use to his plans and harming him would be counter productive. You on the other hand were a complication and a wild card in his deck. Waiving a hand the current turned off, the only sounds filling the small space was your ragged breathing.

“We both know that you won't let me walk out of here.” Glaring at the dark figure in your peripheral vision you heard the Count hum in agreement. The only hope that you and Obi Wan had was if your wayward apprentice received the distress call. Your own temper was flaring from all that had been brought to the light. Dooku's betrayal to the Jedi, the assassination plot, war...

You spat at the viper's feet, “Nutricula seditiosorum omnium.”

“I see you still favor the old tomes in the archives,” Dooku considered something for a moment, something he had not weighed before. Troublesome though you were quite clever, nor was there anyone else with a keener insight to the workings of the Jedi Council. If he managed to acquire one Knight the other would follow, two for the price of one. Coming to stand alongside your suspended body he removed a handkerchief to blot at your cut lip. Your sharp gaze never left his, challenging and dare he say angered. He had almost forgotten that you were of mixed lineage, the temper of the former being legendary... How very interesting. “Tell me did you ever study the old scrolls regarding Darth Malgus? Always two, no more or less... How many Sith were destroyed that day on Naboo?”

You turned away focusing on a spot on the wall, ignoring whatever game this seditionist wanted to play.

“I see in your eyes that you know the truth, that the other Sith remains.” The girls gaze shifted back to him. She had been there, had seen his predecessor. “What if I told you I am on the trail of the Sith who escaped? That even now this Darth Sidious is exerting his power to weaken the Republic one senator and system at a time.”

“You're lying.”

Dooku hummed, “You and I both know that I am not. Your intellect would be invaluable. You, Obi Wan and I, together we could finally bring this monster to justice for what he did to Qui Gon and the Republic.”

“The Council would have sensed this danger if it was so close,” Anger and denial raged in your veins, but somewhere in the back of your mind the words took hold. Like a challenge it dared you to follow, to seek, to investigate. Looking at the Count, at the smug upturn of his lips you shook the thought away. “Obi Wan would never join you and neither will I.”

“Even if it meant that you could finally have what you've always wanted? To keep that which you so covetously guard?” Dooku watched your face drain of color. While you were very good at hiding your thoughts and feelings, Obi Wan was not. It hadn't taken much including the information that Fett had provided to come to a conclusion. These two had a bond that would not easily break and perhaps that was their undoing. “To no longer fear losing the one that you loved?”

“I cannot fear that which I cannot lose,” Leveling a harsh look at the man you narrowed your eyes, "Love is of the soul. A soul cannot be destroyed, only these mortal vessels.”

Clever girl, much like her Masters before, “But what of now? Have you not longed for a family, a normal life with the one you cherish? Don't you deserve a reward after all you have done and sacrificed? After all that you have already lost?”

Yes you had dreamed such a thing, still did on your worst days. A small cottage somewhere peaceful with not a worry more than your patients and perhaps a small garden for your Obi Boy to tend to. To fall asleep to the sounds of the wind and sea or the trees and small creatures that would surround your home. But in a way you already had your family, you and Obi Boy and Anakin. You three were happy in your own little way and that was more than you could have asked for. No, the Devil himself would not turn you today. “Amabo eum in vita vel morti...”

“Then there's really nothing more I can do for you my dear. Such a pity,”

“Why not just kill me now,” you challenged.

“Would that I had the ability to grant such mercy, but I'm afraid our friends in the Trade Federation have taken quite the interest and our hosts have prepared something in their honor.” Dooku turned just as he made the doorway. “The Haako family patriarch in particular, the one whose namesake you killed.”

The door closed behind him, the sound deafening and final. You couldn't help the tears that fell as the old memories of the fight for Naboo dug into your heart, still you kept singing. If it was the last thing in this galaxy that you did it would be to wipe the smug look from that man's face. Besides, you had long known one simple truth... Death was such an old acquaintance that he would come for you last.

And only after all of your loved ones had been taken from you.

“No, I'll stand my ground

won't be turned around

and I keep this world from draggin' me down,

gonna stand my ground

And I won't back down.”

Jango Fett considered himself a fair man. When he was hired for a job he did the job, he never enjoyed the killing though. Some hunters got into the business for their own blood lust, Bosk was like that, but Jango enjoyed the challenge a hunt brought. The cat and mouse, the strategy, the soreness after a good fight, never the killing. He had a code that he followed, loose as it was, including that his targets did not suffer needlessly.

The Count, as his boss preferred to be called, had asked him to transfer the female Jetii to the holding cell where her counterpart was. That Tyranus had tortured the woman for the sick joy of it, well that didn't set well with him. She was a strong little thing though, hadn't given the man the pleasure of her tears nor given into his tactics. Something far worse had done greater harm to her in the past because she hadn't crumbled, simply sang her little song in defiance. For that the Jeti'ika impressed him all the more.

Entering the room he bound your wrists and began escorting you through the winding catacombs of the lower levels. “Don't try anything funny Jetii.”

“My name is Y/n if you'll recall,” You moved with a bit of a limp given the rough capture. Glancing at that shiny bucket you remembered the terror in the Changling's eyes. This was the Hunter that was so feared, but beneath that helmet was a man and not a monster. You may be resigned to your fate, but as a Jedi it was your duty to protect and to hope. There was yet one innocent here that could be saved and perhaps another soul that could yet turn back to the light. As tired as you were, as cynical as you felt, you had to try. “You should take your son away from this place.”

Jango tilted his head, “And why is that Y/n?”

“I know your boss. Master Dooku will only let you live as long as you're useful, then who will protect Boba?” He had called you by your name, it was something at least. You kept an even tone as you continued, “He was my teacher once long ago, but matters little to him. Friends, family, loyalty none of that matters, nothing can stop what he has planed. Once he has a goal Master Dooku does everything to achieve that end... He doesn't like loose ends.”

“And I don't like tricks little girl,” Jango roughly pulled his prisoner into small hallway alcove, pressing her into the rough stone. He watched your face for the usual disappointing displays; the big eyes and tears, begging, bargaining, seduction. All he saw though was bone deep weariness and a jaded smirk of one who could see their own end. He couldn't place why this bothered him, but for some reason Jango didn't want to see the fight leave you. He also knew what the Bugs had in store for the two knights and if he hated anything it was a rigged fight. Still the question remained what was the woman playing at?

“I'm not trying to trick you Jango. Frankly if there wasn't a child involved...” Stars and the Force help you to get through the man's thick skull. You leaned back more firmly into the stone as he lifted his helmet to look you in the eye. The man had done bad things made bad bargains, but Boba was just a kid. “Your son deserves to keep his Dad.”

His gaze narrowed at you, eyes cold. “Why would you give a kark about my boy?”

Closing your eyes on a heavy sigh you told the truth, “Because I know what it is to lose a parent and I'd spare any child that same pain. Please just take him and fly far away from here, live a happy life and grow old. If you stay here you will not see him become a man... and that would be a shame.”

You were being sincere, even past the exhaustion and pain that tainted the rest of your body language Jango could see it. You didn't beg for your life nor were you trying to escape. He again weighed his course of action just as he had earlier, the decision falling even more firmly into place now. Pulling his helmet down Jango crouched, lifted you onto his shoulder, and started walking down the corridor again. He knew this wasn't a smart idea, but it was the fair one. “Don't struggle.”

You startled when the hunter lifted you, but that was replaced with the bitter taste of failure. Why even try anymore, every time you tried to help it blew up in your face so why even try! The whirlwind of your mind was going so fast that when Jango placed you to sit on a high surface it took a full minute to realize that you were in a room of some type. Your eyebrow raised as he locked the door, “What are you...”

“Quiet.” His tone was sharper than intended and he watched as you flinched. Jango needed to get this done before sense returned to him. Removing two ration balls from his belt he pulled the front of your tunic aside and tucked one into a pocket, the other he held up to your mouth. “Eat, you'll need your strength.”

Unsure of his intentions you shook your head, making the hunter's temper flare. He grabbed your face holding open your mouth and forced you to take the food. It tasted like the rations that you were issued from the Temple, but there was no way to be certain. You held the food in your mouth, wanting to spit it out.

“Don't be stupid, swallow it.” Jango was not about to waste much time on this, he'd plug your nose if he had too, but you did as he said. Lifting a water pouch to your lips he growled in his throat before you could refuse to drink. Satisfied that was done he patted your thigh, “Good girl, now leg up.”

“Why?”

“Stubborn thing,” He raised your cuffed hands overhead to canter your body. Pulling the injector out, he showed you the label, then jammed it into your leg. Chucking it aside he tried to soothe the spot of the injection, stroking his thumb back and forth on the muscle. Jango shook his head again at the stupidity of doing this. Knowing that he and Boba would be on the run from both the Republic and Tyranus after his actions were discovered. Perhaps this one good deed would tip the scales in his favor when judgment came, perhaps it was just wishful thinking. “That should take care of the worst of it.”

He had released your hands to find something else in his belt, the Bacta had begun working through your body as well. You felt his anger and regret as tears of gratitude leaked down your face. Jango didn't have to do this, he owed you nothing, but he had been kind. Bringing your bound hands down you traced the Beskar Heart of his armor. Jango ceased his task to lightly clasp your fingers. Glancing up you saw his face soften, lips pursed with words he could not say, instead he bent forward to touch his forehead to your own.

“Thank you Jango.”

“You shouldn't be here," he used the same tone that he would have when Boba was little, not wanting to upset you more. Jango shook his head with a subtle huff, "you don't deserve to be here.”

Closing your eyes a sad little chuckle escaped you, “We rarely get what we deserve.”

“Isn't that the truth. From what I've seen though, I don't think this will be your last day.” Jango smiled sadly. In another lifetime maybe they could have even been friends, but that could be true of so many things. He pressed the last item into your hand, watched as you secured it in your robes. Time was short and he needed to get you to the holding cell, but then soft fingertips touched his cheeks. He was used to pain, but this gentleness was so very different. Glancing at your battered face Jango knew that he had made the right decision.

Leaning in you placed a soft kiss to his cheek, “When the fight comes, I won't look for you Jango. Fly swift and straight.”

As you pulled away Jango couldn't help indulging in temptation just a little. Your face could have fit entirely in the palm of his hand, his hold firm but careful of the bruising. Dipping his head down Jango collected his fee, after all one good deed deserves another. He kept the kiss light, tongue only just tracing the outside seam of your lips including the small cut on the tender bottom one before he pulled away. He had to smirk at the little sigh and the flush that crept up your cheeks.

Your mind had gone blank, not expecting him to do that! You were just trying to be nice and say thank you, but damn the man for being so cheeky. Then he gave a roguish, self satisfied smirk at you and that tore it. Narrowing your eyes you kicked him square in the ass plate, “Oh you...”

“Quid Pro Quo cyar'ika,” Jango couldn't help but smile at the fire in your eyes. He carried you down to the cell to be with your riduur, not that he thought the prick deserved you. He hoped that his actions would be enough that you would survive. Now he had to prepare and plan his own escape, and contingencies for Boba. If what you said was true then his own chances of survival weren't much better than your own. Glancing back from the door Jango watched as the two knights embraced, fretting over one another. What would it be like to have someone worry over him like that? Not that he had the time to ruminate on such things, he was being summoned for more intruders on the droid floor.

“Ret'urcye mhi Y/n, jate'kara.”

Translations:

Nutricula seditiosorum omnium (latin)- dry nurse of all seditious men

Amabo eum in vita vel morti (latin)- I will love him in life or death

cyar'ika- sweetheart

Riduur- spouse

Jeti'ika- little Jedi

Ret'urcye mhi- Good bye, but more literally maybe we'll meet again.

jate'kara- luck, destiny; more literally good stars to steer by.

Tags: @meshlasolus @a-rose-of-amber @aquaamethyst96 @rain-on-kamino @stanny-uwu @just-dreaming-marvel @nurseytypechick @in-a-mellow-tone @acatalystrising @pickleprickle @iambored24601 @songoficecreamandfireworks @misscamptl @purplepandora666 @obiknights @moostresskenobi @the-going-merry @ginger-swag-rapunzel @iabrokengirl @lovelyxlily @annasun13 @foxperifoto @supernaturallover2002

#Oh this was a long one #the next one wont be much better #obi wan kenobi #obi wan kenobi x reader #obi wan x y/n #obi wan fic #star wars #obi wan x reader #obi wan fanfiction #obi wan x you #jango fett #attack of the clones #ol&d

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lightwise · 1 year ago

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Ahsoka Episode 4 Spoilers/Thoughts

This was...a big one, to say the least.

Also note to self do NOT open tumblr while in the middle of watching an episode or you will be spoiled for that epic ending *sobs* oh well...

SPOILERS BELOW THE CUT

2/2 Star Wars characters repairing ship wiring on their back...v nice

Sabine, you realize none of you would be in this position if you hadn't squirreled away with the map in your tower...jus sayin...

"Can I count on you?" Yeah I'm gonna say that's a no...

Sabine loading her blasters is super cool but also giving me flashbacks to trying to reload staple gun or nail gun cartridges and hoping you don't launch them into your face in the process

Natasha plays Sabine's nervous energy very well and Rosario is showing Ahsoka's own unease, reserve, but also very caring concern, extremely well. I really wish we could see the history between these two--animated in between series anyone??

I wonder why Dave doesn't bring up the fact that Ahsoka owes Ezra her life. It's only focused on what Ezra means to Sabine, but he means a lot to Ahsoka too.

Huyang's lil hands on hips...you can tell he's a full practical build here.

Speaking of...I REALLY want to know if the practical robot was used for this fight scene, or if they switched to someone in a costume/CGI. It seems like the HK droids are people/CGI but I could be wrong about that. Either way, go Huyang go!

It's always a treat to see Mandos and Jedi fighting styles together. And Sabine's Wonder Woman vambrace block was great.

Ahsoka's white lightsabers are so stunning in live action.

"May I make one request of you both?" LISTEN TO HUYANG. HE KNOWS WHAT'S UP. "Stay together." And WHAT ARE THEY NOT GONNA DO SMH

"Mom, how come I have to do what I'm told and you don't" lmao

Jacen is so spunky and I'm so glad Dave is having him be a full part of the series.

Carson Teva my man! And Brendan!

BUT WHERE ARE ZEB AND KALLUS. WHERE ARE OUR MARRIED BOIS

"Faith? I lost that a long time ago" Baylon's backstory pleaseeeee. Who was his master. How far did he get in training. Was he knighted? Did he have a padawan pre-order 66? Where was he during the war? Where was he during Order 66? When did he walk away, and what did he walk away to? What are his goals now? How did he find Shin/why did he want to train her? We desperately need a comic or a book here Lucasfilm

The graphics for the countdown clock (and the droids manning them) are super cool

Shin dear lord can you be any more dramatic

Sabine and Shin running off like rabid wolves while Ahsoka is just like, oh please, do I really have to deal with this right now

Ahsoka > any inquisitor, dead or alive, magic or real, anytime, any place, any age LOL

Ugh the parallels to Obi-Wan and Maul are impeccable.

So I totally knew Marrok would be a nobody/throwaway character but a nightsister necromancer ghost??? Did not see that coming at all. Eerie

Shin seems honestly disturbed by seeing Marrok fall. I wonder if the body that was used was someone she knew or had a connection to.

The lightsaber usage in this show is so interesting and such a unique blend of samurai techniques, OT trilogy techniques, and more realistic stabbing and swiping and slicing motions. I love the choreography and cinematography of Shin and Sabine going at it as well as how the trees and landscape are used in their fight.

Looks like Shin got her dramatics from her master. Sitting there with his hood up for effect lol

Definitely getting flashbacks to Ahsoka's sass in her fight with Maul in TCW.

Baylon's textured armor is so incredible. I want to see him leading a 13th century cavalcade

Can he read people's minds? Or does he do in depth research like Thrawn does so he knows the weak points of his opponents?

“One must destroy in order to create.” No. You are incorrect sir. One must die. One must morph, must change, in order to create. But that is different than destroying.

Again with the one saber. It's such an odd choice for Ahsoka to do that, and it honestly feels like an excuse for Baylon to be able to overpower her later. I don't quite like it.

It is very interesting how Baylon views Ahsoka, and tells her that her legacy is death and broken promises. What exactly does he think her legacy is? Because that is Anakin's legacy, not hers (at least through Rebels). What has happened since then?

He looks so sad, honestly.

There's way too much leaving oneself open to attack in this episode.

The fight scene definitely looks slowed down a little, and it's a little clunky, but man Baylon is brutal with his saber. Again why is Ahsoka not using both of hers to combat is strength??

Either there's a trailer shot that never made it into this fight, or Baylon and Ahsoka fight again. I'm missing where she kicks back against one of those tall rocks and flips over. That was such a cool shot.

I honestly can't believe Shin was able to block the whistling birds lol. That would be an intense hit to the face. Also I love how much of the shots and sparks in these shows are practical. It makes it feel so much more real.

The map burning Ahsoka is wild. It makes sense but very unfortunate.

Hot damn Ahsoka! She definitely was tapping into some anger there. In real life that hit to the back of the head should have seriously injured Shin. Filoni is really being gritty and brutal with the fights in this show, they're raw and dirty in ways that the trilogies were not.

Aaaaaand while I know Ahsoka isn't dead yet (there's no way Filoni would kill off the title character halfway through a first season) holy cow that was heartwrenching

Baylon is a master manipulator. He makes Maul look like a babbling teenager. And yet he doesn't seem to derive any twisted pleasure from it. He just is doing what he thinks he needs to do.

I'm sorry Ahsoka had WHAT to do with Sabine's family dying???? In the Purge??? Ugh geez that's awful.

Gah DAMN it Sabine!! C'mon girl!! Bad decision, bad decision!

WHAT IS THIS GREATER GOOD BAYLON

I would have loved to see Obi-Wan face off against Baylon. The quiet patience and calm strength...too much for one room

He is just not done digging at Ahsoka is he. Again, master manipulator, but why?

Huyang's little magnifying glass!

Dave definitely nailed the lighting in this show. Even if the volume is still apparent in some shots, the lighting is finally dialed in and soft and realistic and atmospheric. That shot of Baylon after decimating the map is epic.

Yeahhh, Hera, ya'll might want to skedaddle right quick before you get....oh, too late....

"Mom? I've got a bad feeling." Me too kid, me too.

"Lady Wren, Lady Tano" *sobbing* Hera make sure Huyang makes it back pls

This transition.

Oh boy

I know what's coming bc I got on tumblr too early but OH MAN

ahhhh it's so gorgeous

it's here, it's finally here and it's BEAUTIFUL (The World Between Worlds, who did you think I was talking about, Anakin? ;)

I'm KIDDING ANAKIN IS BEAUTIFUL TOO OMG I CAN'T BELIEVE MY EYES

"Hello Snips" I can't I truly can't

"I didn't expect to see you so soon" so is she dead? Dying? Disassociating while drowning? Dave if you kill Ahsoka off in this show I will never forgive you

She is in shock omg look at him she is reunited with her brother, her master, her friend!!

We think--DAVE WHAT DOES VADER THEME MEAN. DAVE, SIR, HOW DARE YOU KNOW HOW TO LEAVE US ON SUCH A CLIFFHANGER IT IS UNFAIR.

Welp I have no idea what to do with myself until next week and we find out what's going on here. I swear if that's not the real Anakin I will be beside myself.

Let's get ready for flashbacks folks. What an episode.

#ahsoka #ahsoka tano #ahsoka show #ahsoka series #ahsoka spoilers #ahsoka series spoilers #ahsoka show spoilers #huyang #sabine #sabine wren #baylon skoll #shin hati #morgan elsbeth #hera syndulla #jacen syndulla #carson teva #some light ramblings #somelightramblings

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go-see-a-starwar · 1 year ago

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Some background from a Weird Al interview with TheForce.net

TFN: How did you research for it? Your song came out a few weeks after Episode I, and by then you’d nailed *everything*, including the pronunciation of ‘Coruscant’. Did you visit TheForce.net or any other Star Wars websites for Episode I info when you were writing the song?

Weird Al: The song was entirely based on Internet "rumors." I gathered all the leaked info I could about the movie from all the various Star Wars websites (TheForce.net was particularly helpful), and was able to piece together the basic plot of the movie. We had planned to release my "Running With Scissors" album the month after "Phantom Menace" came out. But because of the lead time involved in recording, mixing, pressing, and physically getting an album out in the stores, I had to write "The Saga Begins" about two months before the movie came out. The folks at Lucasfilm have always been very friendly towards me, but they politely declined my requests for an advance screening or a peek at the script. Thankfully, the storyline according to the Internet followed the filmed storyline pretty accurately. Just for safety's sake, we didn't do the final mix on "The Saga Begins" until after I had seen the movie (I paid to go to the $500-a-ticket charity screening, so I could see the film a couple days before the rest of the world). I remember I changed a couple lines after seeing the movie - very minor tweaks. Like "He's probably gonna marry her someday" was originally "I HEAR he's gonna marry her someday," because according to an Internet rumor, in one scene Anakin tells the Queen to her face that he's going to marry her (which, as it turns out, wasn't in the final cut - but everybody knows how the storyline is going to go anyway, right?)

sometimes an acapella group is just you and your 5000 force-vision clones

#as the risk of massively dating myself I remember when this came out #it was my song of the summer (I was not a cool kid 😂)#it came out like a month after TPM so I figured Weird Al just had an insane turnaround time #didn’t know he wrote it almost entirely based on internet spoilers before TPM came out #like that was dial-up era! that’s wild!#tangent: they should have kept 9yo Anakin telling Padme to her face he’s gonna marry her #that’s so Anakin 😆#interviews #weird al #if any celebrity has the force it’s him #the saga begins #music #video #Star Wars heritage post #long post

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thepadawancollector · 4 months ago

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Snaggletooth (Red Variant) - Released in 1978 (Copyright stamp 1978)

This action figure made its Cardback debut in 1978’s Star Wars 20B backs and received a release through Sears in an Exclusive release in its 1979 Christmas Catalog in the Cantina Adventure Set and in a two-pack action figure set with Greedo. The Red Snaggletooth replaced with the taller, Blue Snaggletooth. The prominent story is that Kenner designers were given a black and white photograph of the character as a reference photo. They created the Blue Snaggletooth from these photos which resulted in LucasFilm requesting a reconfiguration into the Red Snaggletooth. The Red Snaggletooth is paired with the Blue/Black Rebel Blaster. The insignia on his belt is an Easter Egg as well. It was from the personal business logo from one of the Kenner designers who created the Snaggletooth. This insignia made its way on both variants of the Red and Blue Snaggletooth.

Character Facts: His name is Zutton in canon and has a brother named Takeel. The Name Zutton was first canonized in the guide book entitled “Star Wars: Alien Archive” in the U.K. in 2018, then in the U.S. in 2019 under the same name. The character also appeared in the now infamous Star Wars Holiday Special in 1978.

Learn more on my Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/thepadawancollector

#star wars #action figures #vintage toys

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atlantaartisticweddings · 8 months ago

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May the Fourth Be with You Creative Wedding Shoot by The Atlanta Wedding Photographers at AtlantaArtisticWeddings

Every once in a while I get a request for a unique photoshoot. About 3 months ago Samantha contacted me and said she wanted to do a wedding/star wars photoshoot. She is having a small wedding at an air bnb with a few family and friends. While they were there she wanted a few fun photos to share.

Both Samantha and her fiance Matt are big Star Wars fans. They are having their wedding on May the fourth which is a special day for Star Wars fans. The date originated from the pun "May the Fourth be with you", a variant of the Star Wars catchphrase "May the Force be with you". Even though the holiday was not created or declared by Lucasfilm, many Star Wars fans have chosen to celebrate the holiday. It is also known as Star Wars Day. On their wedding day Samantha and Matt are going to sneak out of their wedding outfits and change into Star Wars outfits to surprise their guests. It should be a hoot!

When it came to the day of the shoot I met Samantha and Matt with their family around the Mill at Stone Mountain Park. There is a bathroom at the top where Samantha could change into her wedding dress. . The dress was beautiful and was perfect for her. Samantha’s hair was done with a lone Star War’s braid down the back. Matt came prepared in dress clothes and a vest.

We started late in the day so we could get a sunset and start shooting at night with the light sabers. The Mill area has so many options there. The waterfall makes for a great backdrop. The Mill run next to the Mill is a fun little feature to shoot around also. The whole area is a plethora of backdrops for photos. Once we finished at the mill it was starting to get dark and Matt brought out the light sabers.

We moved to the stone quarry across the street from the mill. I chose the quarry because it has a tunnel that runs under the train tracks that wraps around the mountain. It is dark there and perfect for accenting the light sabers. We started playing around with a technique called light painting. It is where you have a long exposure with your camera and you can paint the light in your photograph. The lightsabers were a perfect source of light for light painting. The whole shoot was so much fun playing different poses with the light sabers. It gave a very cinematic Star Wars vibe.

Congrats to Samantha and Matt and thank you for one of the most creative photo shoots that I have had in a long time! May the fourth be with the both of you!

Thanks for checking out this Atlanta wedding photographers blog! I hope you enjoyed the read and found it interesting! Make sure you keep coming back to our blog to see what the Atlanta wedding photographers at Atlanta Artistic Weddings get up to! If you’d like to contact me go to the contact page and drop me a line at https://www.atlantaartisticweddings.com/contact-atlanta-wedding-photographer. I would love to hear from you!

Thanks again!

Source: https://www.atlantaartisticweddings.com/

#Atlanta #Wedding photographer #Atlanta wedding photographer #Wedding photographers #photographers #starwars #anime #Star Wars #light saber #light painting #night photography

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yessadirichards · 10 months ago

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'Star Wars' actor sues Disney with funding from Elon Musk's X

LOSANGELES

A "Star Wars" actor backed by Elon Musk's X is suing Disney for firing her over inflammatory social media posts about the Holocaust, the pandemic and trans rights.

Gina Carano, who had a major role in the wildly popular Disney+ series "The Mandalorian" until 2021, filed a lawsuit in California on Tuesday claiming wrongful termination.

The suit says Carano was expressing personal political views but was hounded by an "extreme progressive" online mob, and alleges that Disney's actions and comments had damaged her reputation and ability to find work in the future.

"Today is an important day for me -- I am filing a lawsuit against @lucasfilm & @Disney," she wrote on X.

The lawsuit is being funded by X, a spokesman for the company confirmed to AFP.

Carano, an outspoken former martial arts fighter-turned-actor, was fired by Disney for what the company at the time dubbed "abhorrent and unacceptable" social media posts "denigrating people based on their cultural and religious identities."

One particularly controversial post shared by Carano appeared to liken being a conservative in the United States to being Jewish in Nazi Germany.

"Nazi soldiers could easily round up thousands of Jews because the government first made their own neighbors hate them simply for being Jews," the post said.

"How is that any different from hating someone for their political views?" it concluded, with a graphic photo of a Jewish woman being beaten in Nazi Germany.

Another post appeared to mock a person for wearing multiple masks during the Covid-19 pandemic in California.

And Carano had earlier drawn the wrath of members of the trans community for adding "boop/bop/beep" as preferred pronouns on her Twitter profile.

In a statement Tuesday, Carano said she had "never even used aggressive language" but had shared "thought provoking" posts with "respect & the occasional comedy."

Both her statement and the lawsuit allege that Carano was afforded less right to exercise her freedom of speech than some of her male colleagues.

Carano said she had been contacted by an X lawyer offering to take on her case after she publicly replied to an open offer from Musk to help anyone fired after using X to exercise free speech.

"As a sign of X Corp's commitment to free speech, we're proud to provide financial support for Gina Carano's lawsuit," said an official post by X on Tuesday.

The lawsuit does not specify the amount of damages Carano is seeking, but claims she lost a role on planned "Mandalorian" spin-off "Rangers of the New Republic" that would have been worth "$150,000 to $250,000 per episode."

Disney did not respond to AFP request for comment.

#yessadirichards

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lillianofliterature · 5 years ago

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the return | luke skywalker x reader | 2/3

a/n: the first kiss scenario addition to this mini series was requested by @tom-parkers-girl on Tumblr.

summary: upon his return to his homeplanet Tatooine, Luke sets out to find you. even this close to his possible success, those same questions and doubts linger in his mind. what Luke finds is far worse than anything he could ever have anticipated.

warnings: tears, fluff, mentions/descriptions of physical wounds and torture, mentions of burning bodies

word count: 6K (OOPSIES)

music: District 12 Ruins by James Newton Howard

PART 1 | PART 3

The body of the X-Wing rattled slightly as it landed in a plume of swirling sand on Tatooine's vast dessert plain, just on the edge of Anchorhead. The whirring and rumbling of the control panel and engine occupied Luke's attention until the ship had stilled completely. When the hatch opened, dust billowed off it's frame and rode on the dry air. With the unclipping of his seat straps and the removal of his tinted helmet, Luke squinted in the blaring light of the twin suns. he had almost forgotten the unbelievable sensation of the heat, the intimate warmth in which they inflicted upon your skin. But a mere few seconds under the same skies, and Luke felt as though he'd never left - it was all too familiar.

And while Luke could say he was grateful to have ventured into other areas of the galaxy, he couldn't deny that he had missed the fragrance, the feel, and the look of his home planet. While it did not smell muskily exotic like the forests of Endor, sweet like the abundance of blossoms on Naboo, or as sharp as the wind on Hoth, it was home. It was comfort.

It was a dull smell; a dry, scentless sensation, if left untouched by the addition of civilization. If the strong wind that blew over the dessert came heftily enough through the walls of the city and over the beige plains, you might smell the distant aroma of metallic exhaust or engine fluids from the shops full of broken-down ships and junkyards full of scraps.

"R2, make sure those rotors are stabilized before we dispatch the anchoring clips. We had some trouble with those last time."

Beep, whirrrrrr.

"No, it can't be a faulty cable. I just inspected them before we left the base."

Blip blip, wheeoooo. Beep.

"What? Alright, I'll just block them manually. I'm going down." Luke descended down the side of the ship, landing with a small thud as his boots collided with the dry sand. Without so much as a glance over his shoulder, he knelt down and fumbled with a series of gears and wires. With one quick adjustment, four metal prongs popped out behind each leg of the X-Wing, finding their way into the sand and clutching onto the loose earth. With a calculating look at each of the rotors he had exposed, he stood and began shucking off his bulky flight uniform.

When he finished taking of his layers, he rolled everything up and shoved it inside a storage hatch in the rear of the small vessel. When the unit clicked shut, Luke finally turned around to face the horizon, where the earth-toned shapes of Anchorhead rose above the flat plains enough to be distinguishable. When his eyes settled upon the sight of his hometown, his lips parted in solemn shock. He didn't expect it to be so comforting, so welcoming - to finally return to a place he was so familiar with. it stunned him, to say the least. After all, he had spent the last few years begging his Uncle Owen to let him leave the surface of Tatooine.

A series of clicks and mechanical whistles pulled Luke's attention away from the horizon and to the little R2 unit that rolled up to his feet.

"Yeah, I stabilized them," Luke answered half-heartedly, turning his gaze back to the city in the distance. "Look there, R2. Anchorhead. We're back home."

Another chorus of satisfied sounds emitted from the droid just before he rolled on ahead of Luke, eager to see the heart of a city he hadn't yet been able to explore. The last time R2-D2 had been on Tatooine, he had been ushered through the city in a subtle fashion that had prohibited exploration and anything that might've warranted the unwanted attention of the innumerable Stormtroopers on patrol. This time, R2 would be sure to see the sights, even if they were dusty.

"R2, wait up!" Luke turned on his heel as he called to the little droid. He ran back to his ship and popped open the storage hatch, grabbing his pack and hooking his lightsaber to his belt. He secured the hatch, tightened his pack straps around his shoulders, and jogged ahead until he caught up to his droid.

In an hour's time, Luke and R2-D2 stood at the edge of Anchorhead as small ships, transports, and banthas carried passengers to and fro. Creatures and beings of all ethnicities and races, from far and wide, were pausing under the awnings of small shops, travelling in groups to their adobes, and others scurrying about as they looked to find respectable ship parts. It was a small-town bustle that Luke had long understood, with strangers walking in and out of the city, dozens of different types of ships anchored on the outskirts, and dozens more shops full of produce, crafted goods, and parts that travelers came to buy for their ships.

Most of the crowds here were comprised of natives, and any other visitors to the desolate planet were typically there on confidential business, had crash landed and were in search of spare parts, or came in search of a good round of gambling.

As Luke entered into the crowds that shifted like sand caught in a breeze, he studied the conversations, the air around the travelers, and the feelings that surrounded them. Surely if there was some sort of strange activity going on, he could sense it from the people around him. But Luke felt nothing more than the conning personalities of shoppers trying to buy more for their money, of gamblers and spenders, and of lost travelers admiring the quaint charm of the little city. He felt no fear as he had before he left with Ben Kenobi. It was almost peaceful apart from the shenanigans of foreign gamblers.

The heavy shroud of the Empire had been removed from Tatooine, which was something Luke had never expected to see or feel. He didn't realize how oppressed Anchorhead had once been until now - until the Empire had been completely vanquished.

With R2 at his heels, Luke weaved around the market displays, the tapestries hanging in the streets, and dodging children that darted through the crowd. As a small girl with head of brunette curls ran in front of Luke's legs, and followed her small frame with a reminiscent smile. As he turned back to the crowd, a boy with blonde hair ran right in front of him in pursuit of the small girl. With a shake of his head, Luke welcomed the memories of his youth and childhood. He had chased you through the crowds in the same way, with young laughter filling the gaps between the adults that seemed to tower like trees in the streets.

Beep. Chirrrrrp.

"I don't know where she could be, R2. Last I saw her she was working with her mother in the market, but that was almost three years ago," Luke regained his focus and scanned the faces that surrounded him. "She may not even be here anymore."

Whirrrrrrr. Beep. Beep.

"You're right. We should stay optimistic," Luke put on a smile. "She could be here around any corner."

Luke trained his mind to stay focused and test the atmosphere around every small group of people. He knew that if he drew near you, he would be able to recognize your energy; your heart beat, the rhythm of your thoughts, and the familiarity of your character. It would exude from the crowd, drawing him nearer, but not if he didn't keep himself aware.

It felt like hours before Luke reached the center square of Anchorhead, where the finest goods were sold and the music from the Cantina could be heard as it flowed out from the bar. As Luke neared the opening, he stopped and took in the people shuffling in and out. He remembered how you had once wanted to be able to set up shop in the center of the city, selling your crafts that consisted of painted baskets, small tapestries, and paintings. As he took around the market, he spotted several tapestry tents, as well as baskets stacked here and there, but none of them had a merchant girl with (h/c) tendrils framing her face and the bright smile you offered to each costumer, nor did they don the robes of faded scarlet that you had made for yourself.

Before Luke could scan the other side of the square, a hoard of young voices surrounded him.

"Is this your droid, mister?"

"Whoa! He has blue plates on him!"

"Our droids are just rusty old buckets."

Luke looked down at his feet to find a small group of children fanning around R2-D2, with their tiny hands admiring his cleaned screws, bolts, and polished plates. When he knelt down to their level, three pairs of eyes met his with wide smiles.

"Yeah, this is my friend, R-2. We're from the Rebellion." Luke smiled and put a hand on R-2's dome, chuckling as the droid let out a chorus of grateful sounds that sounded almost as if he were surging with confidence.

"Woooow! A real space droid!"

"We get ours from the Jawas."

"Does he shoot lasers?"

"Can he fly?"

"Did he help defeat the evil man from the moon?"

"Can we feed him?"

Luke did his best to answer the barrage of questions being hurled at him from the excited children, offering the simplest and most interesting answers he could surmise. As they doted on the droid with affection, compliments, and offers of service, the R-2 unit buzzed and chirped with a pleased refrain. It wasn't until a larger crowd of children began to gather around him above the chattering of their young voices, that Luke caught the hint of a familiar sound that made his skin shiver with goosebumps.

He stood up slowly and searched the crowd once more; the merchants resting under their awnings, the laughter that rose and fell in the air from various conversations, the clattering of shoes and the jingling of coins in their pouches. The sound of the children's voices and the bustle of conversation around him faded into a murmur as searched the crowd for the sound he had heard; the octave of a woman's voice that was too familiar to ignore.

"Not on your life, Zargath!"

There it was again, accompanied by your laughter. Luke turned around in the direction of the voice. When he finally saw you, his lips parted and his heart seemed to stop. It felt as if the blood in his veins had gone cold and the speed at which his thoughts coursed lulled to a halt.

There you were, with that beautiful smile on your face, your hair falling gracefully on your shoulders with a crown of braids clearing it from your forehead. Just as he always liked it. You wore a light blue tunic with a deep blue belt, beige pants and the same worn boots he had left you in. He had never seen you in blue; it was mesmerizing.

Wow, she’s beautiful. I’d almost forgotten.

"What do you mean, (Y/n)? I'm only trying to make an honest deal!"

"You're too much of a gambler to pay in full and there isn't a drop of honesty in your blood," You chuckled, giving a suspicious but playful look to the Kubaz. He seemed to squirm a little under your comment, afraid you would withhold whatever deal was being exchanged between you. "But you're a loyal costumer, so I'll give you the three extra fruits. Consider it a gift. But I'm keeping the hubba gourd."

Luke watched as the Kubaz, allegedly named Zargath, passed a glove-full of coins into your palm. You pushed the basket across the table and Zargath took it in his arms, finalizing the transaction. You leaned onto the table after waving to the alien, eyeing your next costumer.

"Hello there! What can I get for you?"

Luke tuned out the customer's reply as he dug into his pockets for what little coin he had brought with him. He had several coins-worth of units in his pack, but he doubted there was any way of exchanging units for coins out in the market. He should've thought of that before he left the base. Leia would have a thing or two to say about that when he got back.

"R-2, I'll be right back," Luke called back absent-mindedly as he counted the coins in his palm, glancing back to the droid as he split off into the crowd. "Don't go anywhere!"

Luke slid in between people as he made his way across the square to your market. He excused himself numerous times as he bumped elbows and rubbed shoulders, trying his best to avoid getting in a tussle with the wrong foreigner. When he reached the small group that had accumulated around your set up, he stood dumbfounded at the proximity at which he stood from you. He walked around the little crowd of costumers bartering with you all at once, admiring your handmade treasures.

Luke smiled as he picked up a smaller basket; it was woven with delicate care, with colors so vibrant they looked as if they had been painted rather than dyed. When he looked up at the array of baskets hanging from your tent, he noticed that nearly all of them were blue and (f/c), save a few that were deep reds with earth toned designs of different shapes. Luke's smile grew as he remembered how dearly you love the combination of blue and (f/c) because they were his and your favorite colors...was that intentional?

He looked up and plucked a larger basket from a hook, further admiring every detail. When a black etching caught Luke's eye, his mouth parted slightly with pleasant shock.

It read, 'In honor of the Rebellion and my friends who became heroes. (Y/n) (L/n).'

It was your signature.

When he looked up and glanced at the other baskets, he noticed they all bore the same mark, the same memoir.

Luke's gaze shifted and he looked at you. You were in a complicated heat of business with about four customers at once, with a flurry of baskets and coins being exchanged over the tabletop. Luke looked back down at the hand-painted signature, then lifted the basket back onto its hook. He ambled around your small shop, studying your craftsmanship; baskets, tapestries, a few articles of dyed clothing, and crates of fresh goods.

You had done well for yourself and Luke couldn't be more proud of you. You had achieved your goal of acquiring your own spot out in the square; you had made a life for yourself in the absence of your closest friends. As Luke waited for the crowd of customers to dissipate, he watched how you handled yourself in the midst of the busy streets. You were lively and attentive, pulling customers in just with your radiant smile and the way you welcomed all prospects of business, whether by pay of coin or by trading goods.

As the customers made off with their goods and the sea of people shifted to the other side of the market square, Luke played with the coins in his hand. He was suddenly nervous, at an almost paralyzing degree. He cleared his throat as he approached the table, hoping you wouldn't notice him right off. As you bartered with the last man in line, Luke tampered with a display on the elongated table. When he listened in, his heart nearly melted.

"Are you sure you don't mind taking these moisture canisters instead of coins?"

"Of course not, Wimbed. Any business is good business out here." You waved a hand at the man in front of you, dismissing his modest concern.

"But I know you've no use for them, Miss (Y/n). I feel as though I'm cheating you, here."

"Nonsense, they can fetch a pretty price down at the pawn hub. Lots of travelers need the moisture for their own purposes. And don't worry, I've known you since you helped me clean up the Lars' farm. We're friends." You reassured. Luke's eyes widened and he nearly dropped the beaded jewelry he was toying with.

You had been left to take of his Uncle's farm? To clean up the horrors the Empire had left behind?

Why on earth had that task fallen on you and not Owen's cousins?

"I just couldn't disappoint the misses again, you know, with her birthday coming up. And the children wanted to give their mother something special this year." Wimbed reasoned as two young children tugged on his rugged robes.

"You don't have to explain yourself, Wimbed. You're wife deserves something nice."

"Thank you," Wimbed's smile was humble as he nodded in thanks, pulling the lovely violet colored tunic over the table and into his arms. "Thank you ever so much."

"No need to thank me! We made a deal." You stuck your hand out for him to shake, to which he accepted. When he backed up and made his way out of the market, Luke watched as he bent down and showed his children the gift they would be able to give their mother.

When Luke's gaze returned to the empty line in front of him, he gulped. When he walked up to the table, you were crouched behind it, stacking the canisters together under your station.

"I'll be with you in just a minute! Let me know if you see anything you like."

Luke barely managed to hum in reply.

Come on, Luke. Get it together! Luke chastised himself. You didn't fly halfway across the galaxy just to stiffen up now! What was it that Han said? Something about flirting?

"Anything?" Luke tried to sound confident, but it came out rather forced and burly.

"Yeah, everything's for sale. Except the table and tent, of course." You grunted as you pulled a large basket out and prepared to stand up.

"Even you?"

Oh, that was bad. Luke winced. That was really bad.

"Excuse me?" You stammered, pulling yourself and the heavy basket upwards. When you stood at full height and looked up at your costumer, ready to throw your largest gourd at him, your grip on the basket faltered. You sent it hurling to the ground with a thud, fruits and gourds rolling all over the dirt, skittering around your feet. You didn't even look down. You couldn't look away from those familiar blue eyes.

"Luke?"

"Hi, (Y/n)." He waved sheepishly.

"Luke Skywalker?"

"Yeah, it's me," He replied, his smile returning. "I came back."

Your silence was almost deafening to Luke as he watched your eyes glass over. The shock in your expression itself was nearly enough to make him cry himself. He watch as your hands slowly made their way to your mouth, just as your cheeks became damp with tears.

“This is impossible.” You whispered, dropping a hand to clutch your churning stomach.

"No, it's me," Luke assured, patting his chest lightly. "I'm here."

“Bu-but…I thought you were dead.”

"I’m alive, I promise!" Luke stepped closer, his hand reaching for yours over the table. You merely stared at it. For the longest minute, Luke feared you would leave his hand to linger in the air, when finally you stepped forward and stretched your fingers out to barely brush his. It was if you were testing to see if he were real.

"Is it really you?” You managed to say, your hands trembling slightly as shock flooded your body. “They said you were taken captive by the Empire for questioning, that you had charged with treason…and then you never came home."

"No, that's not true. I escaped with Ben Kenobi and I joined the Rebel Alliance. I helped defeat the Empire! I fought Darth Vader myself. And I came back for you as soon as I could." He watched helplessly as your tears spilled over your chin. You drew your hand back to your abdomen. "Don't you recognize me?"

“Of course I recognize you, but I just don’t understand. It’s been nearly three years and I haven’t heard or seen anything from you, a-and suddenly you’re here, right in front of me. It’s a little hard to believe,” You voice cracked under the pressure of your rushing emotions. You were relieved, in shock, overjoyed, and yet furious all at once. In an instant, your pained expression contorted into one of anger. Luke dropped his hand to his side. “I- I thought you were dead! Why didn’t you send some sort of message? Some sort of sign? I thought you had died, Luke! I’ve been alone for three years!”

There was a moment of silence as he registered the pain in your voice and the betrayal in your words, testing the limits of his own emotions.

“(Y/n), I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to leave you like that. I didn’t mean to go.”

Even though you were hurting, and you were overburdened with a rush of emotions, there was a name you hadn't heard in quite some time. A name the Empire never uttered when they came that day - the day Luke disappeared.

You swallowed your frustrration and your hurt and sniffled back your tears.

"You said something about Ben Kenobi?"

"Yes, do you remember old Ben? The old hermit who lived in the canyons?" Luke tried to speak softer, hoping to calm you. When you nodded, he continued. "Well, he turned out to be a Jedi Master who once knew my father. And he trained me to be a Jedi as well. See? I've got a lightsaber and everything."

"A Jedi?"

"Mhm. Look, I'll show you." Luke gave you his gentlest smile as he pulled his saber from his belt. When you recognized the weapon, you cowered back with blatant fear in your eyes. "No, no, look! I'm not going to hurt you, (Y/n). I swear."

"Where's Ben?"

Luke swallowed.

"He died. He sacrificed himself so me and my friends could get away." The solemnity in his eyes made you trust him, even though you were still doubtful. You still remembered vividly the way Vader's saber felt as it seared into your arm.

You remembered how sickening it was to have that cloaked monster rummage through your memories, how it felt when they told you about the Lars’ doom, and how you had wept when you learned about the death of your childhood friend.

Nearly Two and a Half Years Ago . . .

"Do you know why you've been brought here?" A man in a grey uniform questioned, his calculating eyes piercing into yours. You studied the jagged edge to his cheekbones and jawline, how deeply his face had sunken in, and thought about how near-death this officer looked. You had no intentions of answering anything he or anyone else had to ask you. "I asked you a question, girl."

When your stubbornness was openly perceived, the man jutted his chin to the side, and you felt two pairs of hands clasp around your arms. You were thrust forward onto the ground, landing roughly on your knees. When you felt your hair get yanked back, you gasped for air from the sudden obtrusion of your airways.

You shook your head vigorously in an attempt to answer him, all while trying to rip your arms free from the troopers' grasp.

"You're here because three witnesses say you and the Lars family were quite close. Something about your friend, the boy? Would you know anything about the droids they own?" He asked, folding his hands together behind his back as he neared you.

When you refused to answer, you hair was pulled back again, this time to where your neck was strained backwards, forcing you to look up at him as he towered over you.

"Hm. Don't feel like talking today, do we?" He asked, clearly unamused by your silence. His tone turned stern, he uttered his words like an order. "Do you know anything about the blue R-2 unit that Owen Lars bartered from the Jawas?"

You only stared at him, grunting under the uncomfortable strain of your position.

"We won't hurt you, girl, if you would only tell us about your friends."

You already are hurting me, you buffoon-faced idiot.

"The Emperor is expecting transmissions, Grand Moff Tarken." Another man in uniform butted in from somewhere behind you. He sounded nervous.

Tarken? What kind of a name is that? And what in the world is a Grand Moff?

"I know what he is expecting, you fool!" Tarken barked, making you flinch. He stalked back and forth for a moment, his fingers poised on his lips. When he stopped, the sneer on his lips gave you a horrible feeling. "If she won't talk, we'll just have to use other methods to persuade her into confession. Summon Lord Vader."

"We'll see how you feel about silence then, no?" He chuckled, smiling down at you. With another jut of his chin, your hair was released and your head dipped forward. You kept your eyes on the floor, imagining the worst of whatever horrors Lord Vader would have in store for you. The sound of the Grand Moff's boots rattling off in distance on the metal grates of the ramp worried you; you would rather have that weasel scold you than have anyone with the name of 'Lord Vader' be left to find a way to make you speak.

You knew the Lars' had done nothing wrong; at least nothing so wrong that would warrant the attention or even the interest of the Empire. But of course, what kind of justice system did the Empire force, anyway? One of suspicion, hatred, and abuse.

Half of the crimes people were accused of were merely that: accusations from Imperial sympathizers. No one ever had a trial, a chance to speak, or utter a goodbye. You were either shot in the street or taken for questioning, which meant never seeing your home planet again. No one ever stepped onto an Imperial ship and came back off.

It was simple, really. There was no returning from the Empire.

When the ramp grates rattled with the precision of heavy footfalls, you tensed. This lord, this man with allegedly stronger influence, sounded heavy. He sounded armored.

As his black cloak fluttered by your knees, you took in a shuddering breath.

"Look at your captor," His voice was deep and fueled through some sort of helmet. You shivered, but you didn't utter a word. "Look at me!"

Within seconds of his command, you felt your head being forced upwards against your own attempts to keep it down. Every muscle in your face tensed as you fought whatever force was controlling your body.

"She's stubborn, isn't she? I think she knows something." The Grand Moff said with an expression on his face that made him seem almost pleased at the sight before him.

"I will probe her for any information and we will test your accusations, Tarken." Lord Vader replied as he slowly lifted his hand towards your face.

In an instant, you felt your mind being pried open. Every memory, every thought, everything you had ever heard, smelled, touched, or said - he was witnessing it, reading it all like an open novel he had cracked open. You squirmed and tried to twist your lower torso out of the grasp of the guards, but to no avail. With the elevation of his other hand extended towards you like a claw, your entire body went rigid.

You fought as hard as you could, so hard that it felt like you were fighting to slam the door shut on a dangerous intruder that had his boot in the door. It was a battle against his strength and your stubbornness. His voice echoed in your head and the feeling of his violating your mind overwhelmed every sense in your body - it felt like a bug was crawling through your brain, devouring everything edible.

"She knows nothing about the plans." He said, rummaging further.

"What? But they're all conspirators!"

"But there is something there, something different from the others we questioned."

"What? What is it? Is she a rebel? A spy, perhaps?" Tarken was almost jovial as he spit out possibilities. Didn't he understand that you were just a merchant's daughter? You'd only heard stories of the Rebel Alliance and it's rebel fleet. You'd never even set foot off of Tatooian soil. "I bet the droid was being sent to her and the Lars' were in delivery of it!"

With a final thrust through your mental cavity like the piercing of a dagger, you could feel his fist enclose around your brain. Your body, if it had been in your control, would have been trembling. You could feel every muscle, every hair, and every drop of blood in your veins tremor as if you were being electrocuted from the inside out - but on the outside, you were frozen in his power.

"She loves the boy. The farmer's nephew."

"What does that matter? That's of no use to us. Search for anything pertaining to those pl-"

"Silence!" Vader bellowed, dropping his hands. You fell forward onto the grated floor with a clang, unable to support yourself from the exertion of fighting. "I want to be alone with the child. Leave us."

"But Lord Vader, the Emperor, -"

"I will answer to the Emperor myself," Vader replied, turning his torso to the Grand Moff. "I suggest you do not test my sense of patience."

With a huff, the Grand Moff led the troopers and other officers out of the room and down the ramp. As the sounds of their footsteps faded, you froze once more - but this time in fear. What had you done to warrant this manner of violation, this method of exploitation? For a long while, the only sound to accompany your racing thoughts was the sound of his breathing as it released within his black armor.

The metallic pulse that his voice held made your skin crawl.

"Do you want to know what became of your friends, the Lars’?" With a flick up his open palm, you were pulled upright onto your feet, your body once again constrained within his grasp. He only left you enough control to speak, should you wish to.

How kind.

“The farmers gave us little to no viable information. They claimed they only needed the droids for work, but no one buys an R2 unit harboring Imperial plans by mistake. Since they refused to speak the truth, they were executed. Their bodies are still burning, as well as the Jawas who sold them their droids.”

The Lars’ are dead? Murdered for their innocence?

It was a mistake, you fool – farmers have no quarrel in the war!

“Control your thoughts, child, lest I punish you for them.”

“You’re a monster.” You seethed through gritted teeth, summoning all your strength just to speak.

“Do you want to know of the boy?”

You froze. Beneath his mask, he sneered at the fear that resonated in your (e/c) eyes.

“We found him in the gardens inside their home, ignoring the presence of the Empire. When he was dragged up the steps, he saw the burning flesh of his aunt and uncle. They paid for their crimes against Imperial efforts. The boy was a different story, however,” You wanted to cry, but he constricted every muscle in your body, prohibiting anything to function of your own accord. You stared up at his helmet, the sculpted features of his cold mask, and felt his gaze bore into yours. “When brought aboard the ship, in this very room, he refused to speak, just as you are. That is, until we made accusations about his family. He fought back and even tried to kill me – he had remarkable strength. But it was untamed, raw; worthless. I killed him before he could even bolt for the door.”

“You’re lying! Luke was with Biggs and Carmie!”

“I do not lie.” He reprimanded. “Do you want me to show you what I did?”

He took your silence as an answer, stepping directly in front you.

In a terrifying instant, he pulled a weapon from his belt. When it ignited, it reflected a crackling, pulsating red that made your blood run cold and your chest burn with fear. The blade of his saber came near your throat, hovering close enough to your skin for the heat to become agonizing, for sweat to pool from your brow. You knew you would be dead any second.

But it seemed he preferred to keep you alive, in your grief and in your fear.

The blade returned to his side, growling like a hungry predator.

When his gloved palm met your forehead, you could feel the odd configuration of his fingers beneath – chilled and robotic. You had no time to wonder about his false hand, or the dominating feel of his grip as it enclosed around your head, for instantaneously your body met the cold floor of the ship, unconscious and vulnerable.

You remember the vague sound of voices as the officers dragged you off the ship and dumped you into the sand. You remember how it felt to have that blaster seer through the edge of your arm, how the screams of agony sounded as the others who were questioned felt the same horror.

You remembered the mutterings of the Grand Moff, asking why you hadn't been executed.

"I've taken care of her. Living will be a far worse punishment than death for her. She will never know the truth." And that was the last you had heard of Lord Vader's voice. You never knew what he meant when he vowed to “ show you”, but you suspected the sounds of the farmers screaming and the scar that would be left in your flesh was his method of displaying what had been done to the Lars family.

However, the fear of Luke being lost to you forever was the most horrifying experience of all.

From then on until nearly a year had passed, you hadn’t smiled, not had you laughed. You could only weep, grieve, and drudge up the failures of a youth you could not return to.

You blinked the memory away as you stared at the man in front of you. He looked so much like Luke; it was like seeing a ghost. You wanted so badly to allow yourself to be completely relieved, to run into his arms, but you couldn’t allow such carelessness. You were confused, angry, and completely caught off guard. You had seen the horrors of the empire, and you could not easily forget them.

For two and a half years, you had thought Luke to be dead.

What did they do to you? Luke wondered. I can sense the remnants of Darkness hidden within your mind. What did they tell you?

"Show me the color of your blade." You managed to say, your eyes trained on the weapon in his hand.

Luke ignited the saber and it reflected a brilliant blue. You heaved a sigh of relief; it wasn’t the crimson red blade Vader had wielded, the only saber you had ever seen, nor the blade that had been held only inches from your neck. Before you was the real Luke with a blue blade to match the color of his dazzling blue eyes, the same eyes that had comforted you through your youth.

Although you knew very little about the color of blades and their meanings, nor even the world of the Sith and Jedi, something deep within you told you this was right. The Luke standing in front of you was real, despite the death you had settled with in your mind. All those haunting imaginings of Luke’s feigned demise that you had construed in your head, the unparalleled grief that been given to you as evidence of his death – it had all been a lie; a horrible mistake.

In front of you, only mere feet away, stood Luke Skywalker, the sandy-haired boy with a head full of dreams. The boy who had stolen your heart many moons ago when your memories were untampered and true.

This wasn’t a dream.

This wasn’t another one of the Empire’s tricks.

This was real.

He. . . came back?

. . . for me?

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wonderconathome · 4 years ago

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WonderCon@Home announces the winners of the 2021 Masquerade Costume Competition

Note that some winners are credited only by Tumblr accounts:

Best In Show: “Astra: Queen of the Frostborn”, a light-enhanced original design crafted by The Queen’s Armory.

Judges’ Choice: “Elphaba Act II Gown” from the Broadway musical Wicked, re-created in every detail by Shane Chandler (ShaneChandlerCostume).

Best Re-Creation: “The Ugly Stepsisters” A 2-person historical re-creation from Disney’s animated Cinderella, crafted by Devon Baker and Carrie-Lea Hoch (Komickrazi).

Best Original Design: “Cheshire Cat”, an original design inspired by Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, designed and made by Nina London Cosplay.

Best Workmanship: “The Ur-Dragon” inspired by card art of the Magic: The Gathering game. Crafted by Kensadi Cosplay.

Best Presentation: “This Is Quarantine” a 2-person re-creation from The Nightmare Before Christmas, imitating famous paintings, crafted by Perditas Wardrobe.

Most Humorous: “The Infinity Gauntlet” An original design inspired by Avengers: Endgame, crafted by Adolfo “Ariel” Estandarte, (Ariel004).

The above winners will receive WonderCon@Home trophies, plus free attendee badges to WonderCon Anaheim 2022. Also, the Best in Show winner Astra: Queen of the Frostborn will receive $500 in cash from Frank and Son Collectible Show, of the City of Industry, California.

Honorable Mentions:

Each of the 3 judges had a costume they liked very much but did not win. Here then they are:

“Oscar François de Jarjayes from The Rose of Versailles”, a re-creation from a Japanese shōjo manga series, and crafted by Yugiri315.

“Elizabeth Swann from Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”, re-created by Emily G. (GeekyGirlFashions).

“End Game Ironman” re-created from Avengers: Endgame, crafted by Capt Cash.

WonderCon gives a big thank-you to the contestants for all their work, to the guest judges for their time and expertise, to the Foglio’s for being our Masters of Ceremonies, and to Frank and Son Collectible Show for their generous support of the event!

Meet your 2021 WonderCon@Home Masquerade Judges:

Jennifer May Nickel

"What makes the art of Costume Design so thrilling is the opportunity to help tell a story and bring characters to life."

Jennifer May Nickel is a Costume Designer for Television and Film. For television, Jennifer’s Costume Design credits include Neflix’s Cabin with Bert Kreischer and Taylor Tomlinson: Quarter-Life Crisis, the CW’s Containment, Fox’s What Just Happened??! with Fred Savage, Syfy's TV movie Miami Magma, the History Channel’s Legend of the Superstition Mountains, TLC’s TV movie The Secret Santa and Nickelodeon’s The Massively Mixed-Up Middle School Mystery.

Classically trained in theatre, Jennifer holds an MFA in Costume Design from Carnegie Mellon University and also studied in England at Oxford University (St. Edmund’s College: Myth and Ritual in Theatre). A proud member of the Costume Designers’ Guild Jennifer has won the Elizabeth Schrader Kimberly Costume Design Award, The Cecilia Cohen Award for Excellence in Theatre and The WCDAC Achievement Award.

Her more extensive bio can be found on IMDb.

Gigi “Fast Elk” Bannister

SFX Artist, Director, Producer, Actor, Director, Gigi "Fast Elk" Bannister (formerly Porter) has been in the film industry for over 35 years. Better known for her practical special effects and production work, Gigi is comfortable on both sides of the camera. She's appeared in over a dozen films and television shows, and is a popular guest at horror conventions, film festivals, workshops and seminars. For several years she has donated time at San Diego Comic-Cons to assist Masquerade contestants with their special effects make-up needs.

Gigi is credited as a Producer on Don Coscarelli and David Hartman's "Phantasm V: Ravager" (2016) and Steve King's "One For the Road" (2011) (Night Shift Anthology). As a character actor, she's appeared in "Bloody Bloody Bible Camp" (2011), "Carnies" (2009), in "Small Town Saturday Night" (2009) (with Chris Pine, John Hawkes, Reggie Bannister, and Perry Anzilotti), and again in Don Coscarelli's "Bubba Ho-Tep" (2002) (Bruce Campbell, Reggie Bannister and Ozzie Davis), and many more. She has produced and directed on numerous projects including dozens of live events, fundraisers and seminars, six independent feature films, and six shows for television.

More information on Gigi can be found on IMDb.

Allan Lavigne

Costumer, make-up special effects artist, sculptor, and [MJ1] painter with 40+years with credits from Lucasfilm, Sony Pictures, Disney, and more, his costume fabrication work has been exhibited around the world in museums, film premieres and numerous conventions. His Bronze Armory studio is in the San Francisco Bay Area where he creates, lectures, and teaches. His newest exhibit of screen-accurate motion picture and television costume reproductions “The Batman Armory” will be re-opening soon at the San Francisco Cartoon Museum, requested by Warner Brothers to promote the new Batman encyclopedia: Batman: The Definitive History of the Dark Knight in Comics, Films and Beyond which Allan was technical advisor for. Formerly a top winner for many years in fan costuming at many conventions, including San Diego Comic-Con, he brings with him great insight from having learned and honed his costume skills as a contestant himself.

Additional information about Allan’s work can be found at https://thebronzearmory.com

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paperback-rascal · 3 years ago

Photo

Crosshair’s scar looks extremely painful. Like a fresh, somewhat festering, not fully healed yet wound. I’ve seen few comments speculating that maybe his “scar” is actually just a half-healed wound that is constantly aggravated by putting on/taking off the helmet.

It got me thinking:

what if it is true? That he was treated just enough to function properly on the field. What if that’s how Empire operates now in it’s transitional stage of replacing one army for another? or maybe Crosshair requested to be released earlier himself, due to his prideful character/chip’s influence?

What if, during all that time, he was on some super strong painkillers?

When he finally joins Clone Force 99, his supply of the meds gets cut off. He runs out of reserves. What he had in his system is flushed out... and an excruciating pain starts - the pain is so bad... only Wrecker understands, as the demolition expert, I presume, had similar experience with his own head injury.

---

As I was drawing this piece I actually started to think about Wrecker, which I don’t do often: what if his somewhat childish, unpredictable behavior is a result of his head injury? Not really causing it directly, but altering his character in some way? He has a vast weaponry expertise, especially explosives, like knowing/remembering different bomb schematics, ability to recognize their types by just looking at them... yet cannot remember basic hand signals? what if the injury left him with a selective “muscle memory” of his training? It would explain so much of his apparent "lack” of his military knowledge.

I kind of, also, picture him, having impaired hearing on that one, damaged ear- that’s why he is so LOUD. Or maybe he got some sort of implant? I mean... he got cybernetic eye, so why not a hi-end hearing aid?

===

#the bad batch #star wars the bad batch #clone force 99 #star wars the clone wars #Clone Wars #The Clone Wars #ct-9904 #clone commando crosshair #clone commando wrecker #tbb wrecker #tbb crosshair #tbb #swtcw #swtbb #star wars #fanart #Wrecker and Crosshair

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scorpio-marionette · 3 years ago

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Here is my request, my darling! 🥰 My love is Ezra but right now I am feeling Marcus Pike in this particular moment.

Okay, I try not to let it bother me, but my thighs is a terrible insecurity of mine and I would like to wear a pair of shorts one day without feeling so self conscious about the the legs 😅 Now, I think you could whip up a masterpiece where Marcus loves the chunky thighs 🥺.

For more details: Established relationship between Marcus & Reader and maybe it's a hot summer day, the type of day where shorts are suitable for the weather and he instantly notices that she is shy about this then proceeds to tell her everything she needs to hear.

All the sweet Comfort/Fluff and if you'd like to, you can add Smut. Thank you Naomi, take your time, I am in no rush but definitely excited to read what you write, love ya! 🥰

Disney Days, Driftin' Away

Pairing: Marcus Pike x Plus Sized F!Reader Star Wars fan

Rating: M for Mature

Warnings: body negativity, body positivity, self doubt, small amounts of Star Wars nerdom, implied sexy times, explicit amounts of you better love yourself or I will blow your chat up with love and compliments to the point that you will hate me

Summary: What's a dream vacation to Disney without wanting to throw your whole wardrobe out of a window?

A/N: I love this idea and I love the ideas it gave me. And I too struggle with loving my thighs. I have new stretch marks and new pants 🥲 I'm not going to lie though, I'm not super thicck like some of you beauties out there, but as of recently I definitely understand a little better bcause I've started developing cellulite around the outside of my thighs. I hope I did good. I struggled with this, trying to make it sound right and flow. I still feel like it could be better. I hope you like it Chloe!!!

It's a beautiful and frankly rare, cloudless day in Central Florida. You had heard of the sporadic rain showers that tend to plague the vacationers that visit the state, but today there is no fear of any interruptions. The sky is blue, the sun is high in the sky, the heat is not yet overbearing on your skin, and you and Marcus have arrived in Orlando for a much needed vacation. You are in your rental car heading towards Walt Disney World from the airport for your dream vacation, having never had the chance to go before. A trip made all the more sweeter having Marcus come with you. To say you're excited is an understatement like no one would believe. You grew up a Disney kid having seen all the classics. You were even ecstatic at Disney's acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm when it seemed so many weren't. Why be not excited? You knew there would be attractions at the parks for them. It would only be a matter of time! All you had to do was save up for a trip and you could go. It's taken a while, but it's more worth the wait now than it ever could've been before because now you have Marcus.

When you and Marcus met he was working a case for the Art Crime department of the FBI as a fairly new member of the team. You were working at a local art installation that would be auctioning off some pieces when quite a few had gone missing. He had waltzed in with an air of confidence but no cocky attitude. What surprised you more was how knowledgeable he was, even on modern artists. Naturally the two of you started talking. Your mutual love of art acting as your invisible red string to each other. When the case ended, you chose to keep in touch with Marcus though part of you still feared all the courting would amount to nothing. Let's just say that art debates over bar food and drinks quickly turned into romantic dinners by candlelight, and the dapper agent had effectively swept you off your feet. Of course you knew about his failed previous relationships, his hesitancy to run headlong into romance again, and his need to take things exceptionally slow this time. It didn't bother you. Mostly because he wasn't just a potential life partner, but because he was your best friend. After all, art wasn't the only thing you two bonded over.

Marcus pulls the rental around to the front of the Art of Animation hotel. This will be your base of operations for the next week while you explore the parks. As per your request, you have one day for each park, including water parks. The end of your trip will be spent in the new Star Wars: Galactic Star Cruiser! A decision made because you and Marcus are huge Star Wars fans. You, a Mandalorian fan specifically, him a Han Solo fan. Arriving at your hotel room, you are excited! Marcus is rambling on about how you had made great travel time. That leaving D.C. early in the morning (and by that he means the night before) had been a smart idea. How you can head to Magic Kingdom for a little walk around to get familiar with it, so when you go for your first official day tomorrow you'll know what you want to do and won't have to scramble to pick. These are all great points, but you’re not listening anymore. You’ve slipped into the bathroom to freshen up a bit. As you enter your eyes move to the mirror to take in your reflection. Marcus constantly tells you how beautiful you are but you can't seem to see it. All you see are the new stretch marks across your thighs and butt that make you look like a zebra. The dimpling from the cellulite that makes you look like you're made of cottage cheese. I can't wear those shorts!

Prior to leaving for Florida, you had gone shopping for vacation clothes and found the cutest booty shorts with your best friend. When you tried them on your best friend was adamant that you got them because they knew Marcus would be all over you when you wore them. Loving the way they made you feel sexy, and from all the support you were receiving, you bought them impulsively. Now you're starting to regret it. Sure, the shorts would be much better than the stifling sweatpants, but you'd have to wear them in public. Public means judgment by people. You step back from the mirror as if it had slapped you and reenter the room. Feeling yourself spiraling you look over at Marcus. He's still rambling even though you can't seem to process anything over your own dread. He's changed into a tank top and a pair of cargo shorts.

Cargo shorts…

Yes! That's the answer to your problem! Wait, you left your cargos at home… You're just going to have to ask him for a pair of his then. You step closer to him and put on an air of innocence.

"Marcus?"

"Yes my love?"

"Could I borrow a pair of shorts?"

Marcus gives you a curious look.

"Did you forget to bring any?"

"N-no, I just don't want to bring a bag."

Marcus scoffs at this. He knows you're lying. There's no way you don't want to bring your bag.

"Sweetheart, you have been dying to flaunt your Grogu Loungefly backpack around the parks for months. What do you mean you don't want to bring a bag?"

You continue to try and feign innocence, hoping he'll buy into the act.

"Yeah, but we're not going to Galaxy's Edge today."

You swear you look like an animated character right now. Big puppy dog eyes, all shiny and sparkly as you try to convince Marcus that you speak the truth. He’s unaffected though. He just stares at you with a cocked eyebrow like he can’t believe that you’re still working this angle.

“Oh come on Marcus! It’s not a big deal. I just want to borrow a pair of shorts.”

Marcus takes a deep breath. He moves around you to get to your suitcase and opens it. He rifles through what you’ve packed to find you a suitable replacement for your sweats. As he looks he finds a really sexy pair of shorts. Oh, these things should be illegal. He feels like all of his blood has gone immediately to his crotch. The mental image of you in these is short circuiting his brain. If you wear them he’s not going to be able to keep his hands off you, but he'll offer them anyway. At the sight of Marcus holding up your new shorts you pale slightly. He just had to find them.

“What about these? I don’t recall seeing you wear them before.”

The smug look on his face not only speaks to his pride in his own personal little victory, but it also bothers the hell out of you. Only because you don’t have an excuse to get yourself out of it, and because you could never tell the man no. Besides, if you could he would know you’re still trying to lie to him. To hide your backside, you pick up your emergency hoodie to tie around your waist and begin to change. Hopefully it covers enough that people won't be too much of a bother. With both of you ready, you head to Magic Kingdom.

Walking in the Florida heat is a welcome change to the chilly D.C. winters, but the chaffing is a nightmare! Why did I agree to wear these shorts?! The spot where your thighs are rubbing together is irritated even though you've gone through measures to prevent or lessen it. It’s not helping that Marcus is staring at you. His eyes are burning a hole into the side of your hip. The feeling of it has your anger flaring, but you’re keeping it contained. You’re in Disney World! You’re on vacation!!! Everything will be okay.

Unknown to you, Marcus has felt teased by you all day. Between you actually wearing the shorts he offered and the fact that you’re trying to cover them up, he has been wanting to get you alone since you slid them on. He finds he’s constantly having to readjust himself so as to not alert nearby parents to his boner. As the day stretches on, the more desperate he becomes. Around late afternoon, you offer to stop for a snack in a little secluded place in Fantasyland. Marcus immediately jumps at the idea and orders food from the nearby snack kiosk. When the food is ready, you guys pick it up and move to the little outdoor seating area around back. You take your seats at a table. Once there you start to eat. Marcus all but inhales his food while you take your time. He sits and waits for you to finish, but quickly feels the need to see you rise inside of him. He slides his hand over to your waist and gently tugs at the sleeves to loosen the jacket. It is then your nerves catch fire.

“Marcus, stop it! Stop touching me and stop looking at me!”

“What’s wrong?”

“I know I’m fat, okay? I don’t need you to inspect me to prove it. Yes, there are more stretch marks! Yes, there is more cellulite. Yes,-”

“There is more of you.”

Your ranting abruptly stops when your ears realize what you’ve heard. Looking at Marcus, you notice he has a soft, almost dopey smile on his face. He can’t be serious right now, can he?

“There’s more fa-”

Just as you’re about to insult yourself again, Marcus nudges you off the bench seat to your table. He stalks you until you back hits the wall of the building you’re behind. From here no one would see you unless they entered the plaza. He crowds you, using his height and broad shoulders against you. All you see is him as he leans into you.

“There’s more of you for me to love, to touch, to kiss, to grip. Why wouldn’t I want more of that? I’ve been eyeing you all day. If it wasn’t public indecency I would’ve taken you against this wall a long time ago. We almost didn’t leave the hotel room because of how much I wanted you.”

To send his message home, Marcus grinds his hips into yours. His cock strains almost painfully in his shorts. Teasing you as he pushes it into your plush body. Your cheeks burn at his confession. You’re in public, in Disney, and all this man wants is you. Marcus snatches your jacket from your body and hulls you against him in a feverish kiss. He licks at the seam of your lips and you melt into him as he licks into your mouth. His hands come down to your hips with a pointed grip. Groping and squeezing the flesh as he slips down to your thighs. He doesn’t go any further than this, not wanting to be too indecent should you get caught. With a final kiss he pulls away.

"Don't ever hide yourself. You are gorgeous no matter what anyone else thinks because I know it. You are prefection to me nd I wouldn't ask for you to be anything other than you. Hell, if we weren't staying in a hotel with thin walls I'd show you tonight just how much I love every new piece of you I get to have."

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