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Dantooine

Arianna Starborne checked her dark curls through the window reflection as she stood on the doorstep of Leia Organa's home. She had received the invitation days ago: dinner with Leia, Han, and the children, and of course the discussion about the position at the military base.

It was an honor, Ari reminded herself, one she shouldn't take lightly. She was free of the Empire and had been offered this position on her own merits, not because Luke Skywalker's name was behind it. Maybe this was the beginning of something different, a chance at a life that truly belonged to her.

The door swished open, and the familiar scent of home-cooked nerf stew drifted into the warm evening air. Leia appeared, smiling broadly, as if neither had just recently witnessed the horror of Callista's execution.

"Ari! Come in, come in. I'm so glad you came."

She stepped inside, unfastening her jacket as Leia led her toward the dining room. Laughter carried in from deeper in the house. Ari could hear Han teasing one of the children, the clatter of dishes, the sound of normal life. For the first time in days, she felt her chest loosen a little.

Then she walked into the dining room.

Luke was there.

He sat at the long table, dressed simply, his blond hair a little longer, falling slightly over his eyes. The second he looked up, the laughter from the kitchen seemed to vanish into silence.

Leia's hand lingered gently on Ari's arm. "Look who's here," she said brightly. Ari felt her face heat up as the truth sank in. This was all planned. She ignored the sudden urge to claim she wasn't feeling well and instead forced a smile as she sat across from Luke.

The table was already set. Jaina and Jacen were whispering across the plates, stifling laughter. Anakin banged his fork against his bowl until Han confiscated it with a grumble.

"Hey," Han said, shooting Ari a cheeky grin as he poured her some water. "Glad you could make it. Luke could use some company."

Leia shot her husband a warning look. "Han, Ari's here to talk about the position at the base."

"I thought you said—" Han started.

Leia cut him off with a glare before her smile landed on Ari again. "The job is perfect for you. They need someone with real experience, someone who understands more than just strategy and weapons. Someone with heart."

Ari forced a smile, though her stomach was knotted. She could feel Luke's presence across the table like a current of energy, pulling at every nerve. He sat quietly, occasionally shifting his gaze between her and his plate.

"Good to see you, Luke," she said politely.

He gave a small nod, the corners of his mouth lifting in a faint, hesitant smile. "Hello, Ari." His voice was gentle, carrying a steadiness that belied the awkwardness between them.

Jaina leaned forward, her big brown eyes shining. "Are you going to be a farmer?"

Jacen snorted. "She's not gonna be farming, nerf-brain. She's gonna do cool stuff, like go on missions and fight Siths."

"Quiet, both of you," Han said, though the grin pulling at his mouth made it clear he wasn't trying too hard.

Leia cleared her throat delicately. "Ari, I thought it would be good for all of us to talk. About the future. About where we're going from here."

"Are Ari and Uncle Luke going to get married?" Jaina asked.

The question set off a chain reaction. Ari nearly choked on her water. Luke dropped his fork with a clang. Han let out a guffaw, and Leia dropped her head into her hands.

"Nice going, wampa-face!" Jacen elbowed his sister. "You upset the grown-ups."

"Jacen, enough," Han warned, though his eyes were still amused.

Luke picked up his fork again, scraping it noisily against his plate as he pushed his stew around without eating it.

Leia tried to continue, her voice a little too bright. "I think the position would give you a chance to make a fresh start. I know things weren't easy for you on the Nadir Grace, but everyone on the base here is very grounded. General Rieekan is already looking forward to meeting you."

"He knows about my history with the Empire?" Ari asked.

"Yes," Leia said quickly. "And he also knows what you've done to help us. He's a little gruff, but he's fair. He won't be breathing down your neck every second."

Ari clasped her hands in her lap. "It's an honor to even be considered," she said carefully. Her eyes stayed fixed on Leia, never once straying in Luke's direction. "After everything that's happened, maybe a fresh start really is best."

Han leaned back in his chair, oblivious or just pretending to be. "Fresh starts are good. When Leia first told me she loved me, I thought it was the end of my freedom." He winked at Ari. "Turns out it was just the start of a new kind of chain."

Leia kicked him under the table.

The kids giggled.

But the laughter didn't reach Luke. His eyes met Ari's, with the same look of regret and longing that she had seen at the hospital.

She broke eye contact first, staring down at her stew instead. The clatter of dishes and Han's dry humor filled the silence.

Leia's smile never wavered, but Ari caught the gleam in her eyes. Leia was hoping for their reconciliation, whether she was ready or not.

The rest of dinner passed in fragments of small talk, bursts of laughter from the children, and Han's endless quips.

When the meal ended, Jaina and Jacen raced off, still arguing about who had to help with dishes. Anakin trailed after them, dragging his feet.

Han stood up, stretched, and winked at Leia. "I better show those kids how to properly scrub the plates before we all end up with food poisoning." He disappeared into the kitchen, and Leia started to follow, gathering stray cups as she went.

Ari jumped to her feet the moment she saw Leia leaving. "Can I help with anything?"

Leia shook her head. "We still have dessert to go, and I have some paperwork for you to sign. Go relax in the den. Luke will show you the way."

Luke stood as well. "This way," he said, moving toward the door.

Ari reluctantly followed him in silence down the short hall to the Solos' cozy den. She plopped onto one of the brightly colored couches, and Luke settled across from her.

"I didn't know you were going to be here," he said finally, his large blue eyes looking up at her through his bangs.

"That makes two of us," she replied neutrally, adjusting one of the pillows.

"I've missed you."

He caught her off guard with his sudden confession. Her throat tightened. "This isn't the place..."

The sound of dishes clattering and children laughing drifted in from the kitchen.

He leaned forward, "Then let's go somewhere and talk."

"There really isn't anything left to say." She shifted on the couch, wishing she could sink into the cushions and disappear.

Just then, Leia entered with a stack of flimsi. "Ari, take your time and read through this. If everything looks good, go ahead and sign."

Ari nodded, taking the contract with both hands.

"Luke, I need your help serving dessert while I put the kids to bed."

"Of course." He rose reluctantly to follow his sister out.

Alone, Ari bent over the paperwork, though the words blurred on the page. He was impossible to ignore, even when he wasn't in the room. She had to remind herself of every reason to stay away from him. The Force lightning. The betrayal with Callista. And most of all, her heritage.

Luke would figure out who her father was eventually. Even if he didn't, their relationship could only go so far. If they ever had children...

No. As much as it hurt, she had every reason to stay away from Luke Skywalker. It could never work. Not now. Not ever. It was for the safety of everyone.

A little while later, the four of them sat in the kitchen, dipping their spoons into bowls of chocolate mousse. The twins had long since been tucked into bed, their laughter replaced by the quiet hum of the food cooler.

Ari took her first bite and blinked in surprise. "Leia, I'm going to be waddling back to my hotel room," she joked, licking a bit of chocolate from her spoon.

Before Leia could answer, Luke cut in quickly, "I'll take you."

Han leaned back in his chair, smirking. "Easy there, farmboy. She's only gotta cross a hotel lobby, not the back alleys of Mos Eisley."

Luke shot him a glare. Han shrugged, feigning innocence.

Leia smoothly changed the subject. "She might need help over the weekend, moving her things into her new quarters."

"I'll be fine, Leia. I don't have much stuff."

"Nonsense," Leia insisted. "We're family here."

Ari groaned. Leia was really pushing the whole 'family' angle, and she knew better than to argue.

Han jumped in to lighten the tension. "Remember when Chewie had two bowls of your mousse and I thought I'd have to haul him to medical?"

Leia rolled her eyes. "You exaggerate."

"Exaggerate?" Han scooped another spoonful. "Sweetheart, if Chewie was here right now, he'd still be complaining. Said it was 'too smooth, not enough fur-sticking chunks.' Whatever that means."

Ari snorted despite herself, nearly choking on her bite. The Corellian winked at her.

"Force, not an image I needed in my head," she laughed, shaking her head.

The mood lightened, and she even found herself chatting a little with Luke.

When the dishes were finally cleared, Han stretched with a satisfied groan. "All right, I'm calling it a night before Leia finds more chores for me. C'mon, princess, you've got me house-trained enough for one evening."

Leia swatted his arm, but laughter sparkled in her eyes as the two of them slipped out, leaving Ari and Luke alone.

The silence that followed was heavy.

Ari set her spoon down carefully. "So why are you here? I thought you were stationed at the Nadir Grace."

"I got fired."

Her brow arched. "You got fired? Why?"

He pushed his unfinished plate away. "After the way Callista died, I… threw a punch at Fey'lya. Not very Jedi of me, I know. But he had it coming."

The memory twisted her stomach. "Yeah, he did. How have you been coping?"

He sighed, raking his bangs out of his face. "More than a few nightmares, but I'll be okay."

She offered him a genuine look of sympathy. "I'm sorry." Pushing back her chair, she added, "I should go. It's late."

Luke stood immediately. "I'll walk you."

"That's not necessary," she said, already heading for the hall. "I know the way."

"It's dark." His voice was calm, but determined. "You're not leaving alone."

Ari shook her head. "You, of all people, know I can defend myself."

He gave her a look. "Yeah, I do. But trust me, you don't want to show off your style of defense here."

"I'll figure it out," she said impatiently, trying to slip past him, but his arm braced against the frame just above her shoulder. The air between them buzzed with everything unsaid.

Her chest tightened. She wanted to bolt, but her legs refused to move.

Luke leaned slightly closer, his eyes searching hers. "Tell me you don't feel it too," he whispered, low enough that it grazed her ear. "Just say it, and I'll let you go."

Her throat closed. No words came. The silence said more than she wanted it to.

She opened her mouth to speak, but a loud crash shattered the moment, something clattering in the kitchen. Both their heads whipped toward the sound. Leia's voice followed, half exasperated, half amused.

"Han! Honestly, could you not raid the pantry for one night?"

"I wasn't raiding," came Han's muffled protest. "I was securing snacks for later."

Leia's groan and footsteps drew closer.

Ari seized her chance. She ducked beneath Luke's arm and slipped past him into the hall. By the time Leia appeared, Ari was already at the door.

"Everything all right?" Leia asked, giving them both a pointed look.

"Fine," Ari said quickly, forcing a smile. "Thanks again for dinner and the mousse."

Luke turned sharply, as if making sure she couldn't escape the last word. "I'll see you at work on Primeday."

Ari froze. "Work?"

Leia's smile was just a little too innocent. "Didn't I mention? Luke just secured a position on the base. You'll most likely be working together."

Ari's stomach dropped. She opened her mouth to protest, but Leia had already vanished down the hall.

"Wonderful," she muttered before she slipped into the night.

The dinner at Leia's still lingered in Ari's mind when she stepped into the quiet hotel lobby. Only one figure waited there, a tall Duros with crimson eyes under a wide-brimmed hat.

"Miss Starborne," he said, flashing a badge too quickly for her to read. "Glass-Eye Teth, private investigator. I'd like a word."

Her guard went up at once. "If you want to talk to me, you'll hold that badge long enough for me to read it."

A flicker of irritation crossed his long blue face before he offered it again, slower this time. Corvin Teth. Licensed Investigator.

She handed it back coolly. "All right. But only a few minutes."

They moved into the caf lounge behind the lobby, where the air smelled faintly of spice and stale caf.

Teth leaned back in his chair, scratching at his chin. "I'm investigating a death aboard the Nadir Grace.A soldier named Sam Veynar. He was found just outside the hangar bay the morning after Callista Ming arrived. His body was broken in several places."

Ari noticed the way he drank, a wet slurp followed by a heavy gulp. It turned her stomach, and she found herself dreading each time his hand reached for the cup.

"He died with a look of terror in his eyes."

She stiffened. "Sounds horrible."

"Miss Starborne, do you understand the gravity of this situation? A man was murdered only steps from the hangar bay. I'm speaking to everyone who saw Officer Ming arrive that night."

Her mouth went dry. "There were hundreds of us out there," she said with a shrug.

He leaned so close she caught the smell of stale nerf burger on his breath. His voice dropped low. "You see, Miss Starborne… Callista Ming confessed to the murder of Samuel Veynar. But I believe she lied. She had no motive or history of that kind of violence." His glass eye whirred faintly as it fixed on her.

The words slipped out before she could stop them. "Why would she confess to that?"

His crimson gaze sharpened. "You sound surprised. Care to explain why?"

Ari turned away, fumbling for composure. "No."

They sat in silence for a moment.

"It troubles me," he said at last, "to think of an innocent woman executed like that." He set his cup down with deliberate care. "What about you, Ari? How does it sit with you?"

Her nails dug into her palms under the table. "She was hardly innocent," she mumbled.

"Whoever killed Veynar," he continued, "did so in a way that was both close and brutal. A killer who looks harmless, who rarely loses control, but when they do…"

He leaned closer, his glass eye fixed on her. Then, suddenly, he shouted in her ear:

"BANG!"

Ari nearly leapt out of her skin.

"Little jumpy today?"

Her throat burned. "Only when somebody makes a point of trying to deafen me."

He ignored her remark. "Did you lose control, Miss Starborne?" he asked almost gently.

"What?" she snapped, too quickly. "No!"

He studied her for a moment, then stood up, smoothing his coat. "That's all I needed. Thank you for your time."

At the door he paused, glancing back. "One thing I've learned: the truth always surfaces, no matter how deep it's buried."

Then he was gone.

Ari sat trembling in the quiet lounge, the guilt pressing down on her. Callista had confessed to something she hadn't done and Ari couldn't escape the thought that she was the reason.

Dantooine Military Base

Ari was getting ready for her first day at work when she was startled by a knock at her door.

"Officer Starborne," came a clipped voice from outside. "General Rieekan requests your presence in Command."

Ari let out a slow breath. So much for easing into things. She glanced in the mirror one last time. The face staring back at her looked calmer than she felt. She tugged her dark braid over one shoulder.

First day, don't screw it up, Ari.

She headed toward the plain duracrete command building where General Carlist Rieekan was waiting for her just beyond the main control room. He was older than she expected, his graying hair cut short. She straightened her posture as his sharp eyes quickly assessed her.

"Officer Starborne," he said, in a deep and gravelly voice.

"Yes, sir."

"Leia Organa speaks highly of you. You've seen your share of conflict. We value experience here." His tone was direct. "You'll find this base isn't the fleet. We don't micromanage. Do your job, follow orders, and you'll fit in."

"Yes, sir," she echoed.

Rieekan studied her for a moment longer, then his expression softened to a smile. "Relax, Officer. You're not on trial."

"Feels like it," she admitted before she could stop herself.

The general chuckled. "Good. A little honesty will get you farther than flattery." He motioned toward the briefing hall. "Come. You'll want to meet the rest of your team."

The base was already alive with noise by the time Ari followed him outside. Squads of soldiers drilled in the training yard and mechanics shouted over the roar of engines in the hangar.

And then she saw him.

Luke Skywalker stood on the balcony above the yard, speaking with another officer. His blond hair which had been trimmed, gleamed in the light. He turned his head slightly, and his eyes met hers. He gave her a subtle wink, before turning back to his conversation.

She looked away quickly, falling into step behind Rieekan.

Keep it professional. Just a coworker. Nothing more.

The officer's mess hall smelled faintly of caf and ration bread. Ari carried her tray to an empty table, eager to eat in peace, but apparently the Force had other plans.

"Is this seat taken?"

Luke didn't wait for an answer as he set his tray down across from hers. He beamed warmly at her, "Figured we should try to be civil, seeing we're working together."

Ari stabbed her fork into a chunk of tuber stew. "Civil? Of course. But we don't have to be buddies."

He tilted his head, unbothered. "Fair enough."

They ate in silence after that.

When the intercom buzzed overhead calling all senior officers to the strategy chamber, Ari shoved her tray aside and muttered, "Finally."

Luke just smiled and followed her out.

The strategy chamber filled quickly, the long table crowded with uniformed officers and pilots in flight gear. Ari took a seat near the middle, her datapad ready. She could feel Luke settle just behind her, and she gritted her teeth.

General Rieekan stepped forward, the holoprojector coming to life. Blue-tinted images hovered over the table showing villages in ruins and strange signs carved into stone walls.

"We've received troubling reports from several Outer Rim sectors," Rieekan began. "Witnesses have described strange masked figures at night. The locals whispering about a cult devoted to Emperor Palpatine."

A faint murmur rippled through the officers. Ari's throat tightened at the name of her father. She gripped onto her datapad hoping nobody noticed her burning face.

"Some believe these are Force-users," Rieekan continued grimly. "If that's true, we could have a serious problem on our hands."

He tapped the console, and the holo shifted to display three-star systems.

"Scout teams have already been dispatched to investigate. We've lost contact with one ship near Atollon."

At that, the room fell quiet. Atollon was not the kind of place you wanted to disappear.

"We need confirmation," Rieekan said firmly. "If this is simply a rumor, we will dismiss it. But if there is truth here, we must be ready."

His gaze swept the room, and then locked onto Ari and Luke. "Commander Skywalker, Officer Starborne. You'll take the Atollon mission. Your objective is to locate the missing scout ship and report back. Do not engage unless absolutely necessary."

Ari's heart sank. Her face remained neutral, but inside she was screaming protest at having to work with him.

Luke nodded. "Understood."

She forced a nod toward Rieekan.

The meeting dissolved into chatter, as Rieekan handed out other assignments. The word cult seemed to have struck a nerve with the officers as they filed out, speaking amongst each other uneasily. Ari lingered at the back, dreading the inevitable.

Sure enough, Luke was waiting by the door.

"Of all people to build a cult around, why would anyone choose that evil old lunatic?" he muttered angrily, falling into step beside her.

She shrugged "Who knows."

"Well," he said trying to lighten the mood, "Guess we're partners again."

"As if you didn't know," she mumbled, hugging her datapad to her chest.

His grin widened just enough to be maddening. "It'll be just like on the Nadir Grace."

She shot him a look sharp enough to kill. "It will be nothing like the Nadir Grace," she snapped. "The nature of our relationship has changed. Do not get any ideas." Her fingers dug into the edges of her datapad, "This is work only."

"You don't have to look so horrified, I'm not that bad," he protested.

"Not that bad? You broke up with me and spent the night with another woman. Forgive me if I'm not thrilled about sharing a mission."

His smile faltered, the light in his eyes fading. "Ari..."

"Don't." She turned on her heel, not waiting to hear the excuse she'd already heard in her head a hundred times.

For that moment, she needed to put as much distance between them as possible.

The rest of Ari's first day at the base blurred together in briefings, paperwork, and introductions. As she walked the hallways, she received a mixture of polite nods, curious glances and the usual flirtatious grins from the men noticing an attractive new officer.

That afternoon, she ducked into the mess hall for a late caf, overhearing the speculation about the cult. People were fascinated by the topic, and the stories were getting wilder by the minute. Force sensitives, extremists, blood sacrifices, resurrection… all in the name of her father's legacy.

Ari nearly dropped her caf tray at the word resurrection, feeling her hands start to shake. That could never happen… could it? Her fingers drummed nervously against the table as she settled into a corner, glancing around the room.

Later that afternoon, she found herself in the hangar, standing before the shuttle assigned to them for Atollon. She ran her hand along the cool hull, hearing the faint echo of her touch against metal.

"Good choice," came a familiar voice.

Ari didn't turn. "I didn't pick it."

He stepped beside her. "Still, she'll handle well. Quiet thrusters, reliable engines. I've flown worse into worse."

"Ah, the grand times of Beggars Canyon," she said dryly. She started to climb the loading ramp. Her foot hit the first step when he grabbed her arm.

"Why don't I remember you?" He gently pulled her to face him, still holding her arm. "You've dropped these hints every now and then, stories of my past that few people know, yet I still can't place you."

"There were lots of kids from the farms running around at that time. I didn't make a point of standing out."

"Still, I don't remember an Ari or an Arianna?"

She pulled her arm away from his grip, climbing the ramp and checking the supplies in the crates one by one.

He followed. "Ari..."

She cut him off, sharply as she grabbed a crate lid. "If this is not work related, I don't want to hear it."

He stopped short, the hurt reflecting in his eyes. "Are we ever going to talk about Callista? Or are you just going to hate me forever?"

"The hating you forever part doesn't sound so bad." She slammed the crate lid shut.

"You think you know what happened," he protested, "It wasn't like that. I didn't sleep with her... I just..."

"Luke, please stop. I don't need to hear anymore." She made her way back down the ramp where Luke blocked her path.

He looked at her for a moment before dropping his gaze, seeming resigned. He nodded slowly and stepped back, giving her space. "All right. We'll keep it professional."

The final briefing was short. Rieekan outlined the departure schedule, 0400 launch, Atollon system coordinates were already loaded into the navicomputer. Supplies checked, weapons cleared. Ari and Luke were to pilot the scout shuttle themselves, with no additional crew to minimize the risk of detection.

"Your primary objective remains the missing scout ship," Rieekan reminded them. "Do not underestimate the terrain. Do not place yourselves in unnecessary danger. Trust your instincts. And if you find evidence of this cult, you return immediately. Is that clear?"

"Yes, sir," Ari and Luke said together.

When the meeting ended, Luke waited near the door again, his expression serious.

"Tomorrow," he said quietly, "We'll be out there alone. Whatever else is between us… we can't let it get in the way."

Ari folded her arms. "Don't worry. I know how to do my job."

"I know you do." His voice softened, almost fondly. "That's never been the problem."

Her throat tightened as she quickly moved past him. Whatever storm raged inside, she was not going to him see his effect upon her.

By the time Ari returned to her quarters, the corridors were nearly empty. The base had gone quiet, settling in for the night. She sat on the edge of her bed, staring at the duffel she'd packed.

Falling back on to her bed, she let the exhaustion of the day take over.

Tomorrow.

Ari closed her eyes drifting off to sleep.

Flashback – Ari at 8 years old - Coruscant

The training droid lay smoking at her feet. She had completely destroyed it into pieces.

Palpatine's yellow eyes glowed brightly as he looked at her. He leaned on his throne, his lips pulled back into a thin smile.

"You are strong, Arianna" he rasped. "Too strong. Even now, you wield the storm without restraint."

Tears streaked down her small face. "I didn't mean to. I can do better, Father, I promise."

"Silence." His hand snapped outward, and the Force clamped her throat just long enough to still her whimper. He let go, watching as she gasped. "Do you know what would happen if they knew of you? If my enemies discovered the Emperor had sired a child capable of destroying with a glance?"

She shook her head, trembling.

"They would come for you. Vader would come for you. And you… are not ready."

For a moment, the mask slipped, and she thought she saw something human flicker in his gaze.

Her small hands curled into fists. "Please, don't send me away. I can learn to control it!"

Palpatine rose from the throne, towering over her. The red glow of Coruscant's skyline bled through the viewport behind him, painting his robes like blood.

She ran to kneel before him, her tiny hands clutching the hem of his cloak, her eyes wide with fear. She begged for him to keep her.

"Silence, child." Palpatine said in disgust. "Stop your crying. I have… another use for you."

She looked up, not understanding.

"There is a boy," he continued, folding his hands in front of him. "The son of Skywalker's bloodline. Strong in the Force, though he does not yet know it."

Ari swallowed hard, her small voice cracking. "You want me to… to hurt him?"

His chuckle was sinister, the sound of a predator amused. "No, my child. Quite the opposite. You will live near him. You will play, laugh, learn what it means to be ordinary. And when you are older, you will bind yourself to him in the way of families. He will love you. And from that bond will come children… children strong enough to eclipse even Vader."

Her lips trembled. "But I don't want to leave you."

"You will." His voice cut sharp. "A family on Tatooine will take you. They will make you… friendly, charming. You will do as I command. And if you fail, if Skywalker does not notice you…" His eyes burned into hers like twin suns. "Then you are nothing."

She nodded quickly, her tears spilling again. Her small shoulders shook as she tried to will the fear away, but her hands refused to stop trembling.

Ari woke up in a cold sweat, trying to catch her breath. Her palms pressed to her face, and she rubbed her eyes as if to erase the memory. What was that? A bad dream, a Force vision, a memory? She jumped out of bed, pacing the floor, then splashing water on her face, then returned to pacing.

Get a grip, Ari!

She forced herself to lie back in the bed. She had to get some rest.

Tomorrow was going to be a long day, and she couldn't afford to fall apart tonight.

Ari's exhaustion dragged her under quickly, but the dream returned with her father's voice urging her to find Luke. She tossed and turned until a warm hand shook her shoulder.

Her eyes flew open. She sat up, her chest heaving. "Luke."

He was there beside her, his blue eyes shadowed with worry. "You were having a nightmare."

"I guess I was." She tried a faint smile, embarrassed yet unable to deny the attraction she felt toward him. For once, she didn't want to think of reasons she shouldn't. She just wanted him.

She leaned closer before she even realized she had moved.

He didn't pull back. His hand brushed her cheek, then his lips found hers. The kiss was soft at first, but when she drew him nearer it deepened, his mouth hard against hers. He eased her back onto the blankets, lowering himself over her, their bodies aligning as if it had been inevitable.

His weight made her tremble. Her hands slipped beneath his tunic, roaming the heat of his skin, the sculpted lines of muscle. He kissed her harder, pulling her close as though he couldn't bear any distance between them.

His hand traced her side, then slid beneath her shirt. The first touch was tentative, then bolder as her body responded.

"Is this all right?" he whispered hoarsely against her ear.

She smiled breathlessly. "Stop talking." She pulled him back down.

Luke's mouth trailed down her throat; her fingers tangled in his hair. .

"Ari…" he whispered.

She tugged at his belt, desperate for more, but he caught her hand, holding it with trembling restraint.

"Not here," he said, his voice shaking. "Not like this."

Her eyes suddenly widened as a low, clicking rhythm cut through the night.

Chittering.

Luke shifted carefully, peering through a gap in the tent. His heart sank as five, maybe six krykna surrounded them. He pulled back, closing his eyes for a moment, weighing their chances.

Ari's gaze darted to him. How bad?

Bad. His voice pressed gently into her mind. We need to stay calm.

But her panic spiked. The shadows outside thickened as the spiders crept closer.

They're sensing your fear. You have to steady yourself.

Her eyes widened; she tried to clamp down, but the harder she fought, the worse it became.

Open your mind, he urged. Let me help you.

She shook her head violently. I can't.

If you don't, his thought cut sharp, they'll tear through this canvas and we'll both die.

Her eyes filled with panic. She couldn't let him die.

Luke leaned closer, his breath brushing her cheek. "Trust me," he whispered aloud. "It will be all right. I promise."

She nodded, trembling, and with a shudder she let go.

Her emotions slammed into him, flooding him with fear, grief, anger and loneliness. It nearly broke his focus, but he pulled her in, both through the Force and with his arms. Forehead to forehead, he wrapped her in calm emotions, pushing peace, safety and security into her until her panic eased.

Breathe with me, his voice whispered inside her. In. Out. No fear. Just me.

Her racing heart slowed until it matched his.

"You're safe," he murmured, the same quiet tone he used in meditation. "With me, you're safe."

Outside, the krykna stirred, restless. Then one by one their shadows withdrew, the chittering fading into silence.

Luke brushed his thumb over her hand before letting go. "They're gone."

Ari stared at him, shaken. "What… what did you just do? That wasn't only calming me. It was…"

"I helped you breathe," he said softly, though both knew it had been far more.

His gaze held hers, his blue eyes burning with intensity that made her chest flutter. For a moment she thought he would kiss her again. She wanted him to.

Instead, he lay back beside her, his hand brushing hers in the dark.

She turned her face toward him, her body trembling with want. Silence hung heavy between them.

Neither of them slept

Dantooine – Late Night

Leia Organa-Solo stood at the far end of the War Room table, her dark hair coiled into a braid at the crown of her head. She wore a deep navy tunic with silver trim, the belt at her waist marking her rank.

"You're back," she said simply.

Luke entered, still dusted with rock debris and dried sweat. He pulled up a chair and dropped into it with a weary exhale.

Leia's mouth tightened. "Han said Coruscant Security showed up at our apartment. Asking about Ari. Calling her a dangerous murder suspect."

Luke stiffened. "That's absurd. You know she isn't—"

"I know," Leia cut him off, raising a hand. "Han said the same. If this were real, they'd be working through the New Republic, not showing up like thugs collecting debts."

Luke released a slow breath, some of the tension easing from his shoulders. "Still… it worries me."

"That's why I'm telling you," Leia said, softer now. "Keep her close."

Leia noticed her brother's dark mood. "What happened? Did you find anything on this Palpatine cult?"

"We found evidence," he said grimly. "We'll bring it up in the morning briefing."

"And?" Leia pressed.

"Krykna nests."

Leia's brows lifted. "And you walked out with nothing worse than scrapes?"

The look on his face made her lean closer. "Luke. What aren't you telling me?"

He rubbed a hand through his hair, his voice low. "I don't even know where I stand with Ari anymore. I just wish she trusted me enough to tell me the truth. Finding out she can use Force lightning… and that she hid it from me… it hurts. If she kept that from me, what else hasn't she said?"

Leia's eyes widened. "I'm sorry, what?"

"On Arvalya-7. A trooper cornered her. She killed him with lightning. She's known the Force this whole time."

Leia sat back, stunned. "How is that even possible?"

"I don't know. Trying to get answers out of her is like prying open a Mandalorian helmet with a butter knife."

Leia let out a long breath. "That explains the rumors. Some officers think you two are about to kill each other. Others think you're about to elope. You're command, Luke. People notice."

He looked down at the table. "She told me her parents gave her to the Empire as a baby. Raised her in some kind of training program. I think there's more."

Leia's expression softened. "If she doesn't want to talk about it just yet, don't push. Just be there for her. She cares for you. I've seen it."

Luke's gaze dropped, heavy with doubt.

"Luke," Leia pressed, her tone gentler now. "She's like you. Learning to carry power she doesn't fully understand."

His shoulders seem to loosen as her point resonated.

"Talk to her," Leia urged. "Not as a Jedi. As yourself."

He nodded slowly, "I'll give it a try. Thank you, Leia."

Later, Leia found Ari standing on the terrace, staring out at the dark fields stretching to the horizon.

"The other half of the rebellion's most talked-about duo," Leia teased lightly as she joined her.

Ari glanced back with a faint, guarded smile.

"Are you all right?" Leia asked gently.

Ari nodded, though her eyes stayed on the distance.

"You know we're all here for you," Leia said. "Han, me… Luke."

Ari lowered her gaze, guilt heavy in her chest. "I know."

Leia offered a small but sincere smile. "You're good for him."

"I wanted to be. I tried," Ari said bitterly.

"That isn't true. He loves you. He wants to make things right."

"One of us will just end up hurt," Ari murmured.

Leia watched her turn back toward the quarters, worry deepening. Luke's heart was in more dangerous territory than any battlefield.

Officers Meeting Room - Next Morning

"They call themselves The Child of Palpatine," Luke said, standing at the head of the strategy table. In front of him, a few grim artifacts from Atollon gleamed under the lights. "They're a blood-sacrifice sect devoted to Emperor Palpatine's resurrection. They believe he's trapped somewhere in the void between life and death. Their doctrine claims that through ritual slaughter and ancient Sith incantations, they can summon him back… but only if they have his bloodline to anchor his spirit."

Luke hesitated, knowing he was about to be bombarded with questions.

"They plan to use his... daughter."

A ripple of horrified murmurs swept the room as datapads were dropped and the officers glanced at each other in shock.

"He has a daughter?" one officer blurted.

"How is that possible?" a junior officer asked

Luke shot an exasperated look at him. "Use your imagination, Callahan."

"Who's the mother?" another asked. "And how much whiskey did she have to drink?"

A few nervous chuckles broke out.

Ari was sitting to the side of Luke. As the officers laughed, she fantasized about a sarlacc beast opening the floor beneath the table and quietly swallowing her whole. There never seemed to be a way to escape her father.

"Quiet!" demanded General Rieekan. "Let Commander Skywalker finish."

"We don't know who the daughter is but we need to find her." Luke pressed on. "They believe," his voice was hard, "that if Palpatine's daughter becomes pregnant by the Force-sensitive, the child she bears will be the Emperor reborn. He will live again..."

That sparked a fresh round of disgusted groans.

"You're saying they want the daughter to give birth to her own father?" someone muttered. "Leave it to the Sith to come up with something that twisted."

Luke ignored the comment. "One of our top priorities now is to find Palpatine's daughter. The cult is already murdering innocents to fuel their rites. If they get to her before we do…" He let the silence hang.

"And the Force sensitive?" someone asked.

"We will need to find his identity. Its possible he is one of the cult members." Luke replied. He nodded toward General Rieekan before leaving the front of the room to take his seat on the other side of Ari.

"Are you okay?" he whispered in Ari's ear.

She didn't seem to hear him, sitting perfectly still, her fists knotted together in her lap. It had been taking everything inside of her to keep her face straight. The whole thing was so vile, her stomach was starting to churn.

"Officer Starborne," General Rieekan spoke. "What's your assessment of the findings you and Skywalker uncovered?"

She blinked, still lost in her fog of thoughts.

"Officer Starborne?" Rieekan prompted again.

Luke nudged her gently beneath the table. "Rough journey home," he murmured, offering her a faint, rueful smile to cover her hesitation.

Ari cleared her throat and forced herself to speak. "Yes, sir. We stand by our findings. The cult is organized, deliberate… and dangerous."

Rieekan didn't seem to have noticed her momentary lapse. His stern features softened slightly. "Very well. Excellent work, both of you. This was no easy assignment. You make a strong team."

As the chairs scraped back and the room filled with quiet chatter, Ari slipped out of the meeting room. Luke was quickly surrounded by officers asking him questions, all keen for a chance to talk to Commander Skywalker. The memory of his kiss and his presence in her mind still lingered. Whatever fragile bond they'd shared on Atollon had to stay buried. For the sake of the galaxy, the Emperor's daughter needed to remain unknown.

Hallway Outside the Strategy Room

Ari's head was spinning in circles from the revelations at the officer's meeting. She barely heard Luke's footsteps behind her.

"Ari! Hold on," he said, matching her pace. "Where are you going in such a hurry?"

She stopped to face him. "What makes you so sure those lunatics will even find his daughter?"

"The Force won't let her hide forever. She'll eventually leave a ripple somewhere and the cult will follow it until they catch her."

That wasn't the answer she wanted to hear. "Right. Well, I think I've heard enough about them for one day." She started to walk again.

"Understood," the blond Jedi said, flashing his infuriatingly cheerful grin as he followed her out into the courtyard. "I've barely seen you since we got back. I was thinking maybe we could hang out later. Grab some dinner?"

She sighed. He wasn't going to make this easy. "I'm busy, sorry."

Luke looked disappointed. "I think we should talk." He moved in front of her, blocking her path.

She folded her arms. "About?"

"About what happened on Atollon."

She stiffened. "Luke, please don't make more out of that than it was. It was about survival. Nothing else."

He leaned closer, lowering his voice. "Good to know you can't survive without kissing me."

Ari started to answer, but then her heart stopped.

Over Luke's shoulder, Glass-Eye Teth, the private investigator, stood at the far end of the courtyard. A cigar dangled from his mouth as he stared straight at her.

Her eyes widened as he started walking toward them.

"I have a class I'm supposed to attend. I'll catch up with you later."

"Class?" Luke frowned. "There's no class at this time..." He turned to look at the chronometer on the wall, but by the time he looked back, she had already slipped away.

Courtyard - That Afternoon

Glass-Eye Teth took another puff of his cigar before finding a seat to make himself comfortable in the courtyard. He knew it wouldn't be long before she came to find him.

Two coffees later, footsteps approached.

"Agent Teth."

He looked up. "Arianna, we meet again."

"Careful, people are going to start thinking you have a crush on me." Ari said dryly as she took a seat across the bench from him.

"I'll leave that to Luke Skywalker. I like my women a little less lethal."

Ari groaned impatiently, "I don't have time for this. Don't you have some drunks in dark alleys to tail? Why are you bothering me again?"

"You killed Sam Veynar. You had to know this day would come, Miss Starborne."

She rolled her eyes. "Where's your proof?"

Teth reached into his top pocket and pulled out something wrapped in a small cloth. "This was found near the body." As he started to unwrap the object from the cloth, Ari seized the opportunity grabbing the small blaster from under her jacket. A sharp noise rang through the air and the Duros froze before slumping lifeless on the bench.

"Sorry about that, Teth but you're not going to destroy everything I have worked so hard for."

In the distance the sound of officers talking warned her they were just moments away.

Moving quickly, she snatched the object out of his blue grip before disappearing through the back entrance of the buildings.

War Room – Dantooine Base – That Evening

Leia stood at the holo-table, reviewing their reports from Atollon with a frown. "Where's Ari?"

Luke shrugged from his seat at the end of the table. "She disappeared on me again."

Han leaned against the wall, his arms were folded like he'd rather be anywhere else. "It's not fair she gets out of the briefings."

The princess sent him a warning glance. "Corvin Teth, the investigator looking for Ari, was found dead this afternoon. Somebody shot him in the courtyard."

Luke's stomach dropped. "What?"

She nodded grimly. "And the two officers trailing her have gone missing. This doesn't seem like a coincidence anymore."

Han let out a low whistle, glancing at Luke. "Well, I guess those guys were right about the dangerous part."

"Han," Leia warned.

He held up his hands. "Hey, I'm just saying. People keep dropping dead, and she keeps being in the middle of it. You see how that looks, right?"

Luke's eyes narrowed. "Ari wouldn't do something like that."

Leia cut in before the argument could flare. "Which is why I want you to go with them on their next assignment. Just in case any other strange incidents happen."

Han straightened from the wall, eyebrows climbing. "What am I now, the Jedi Daycare Program?"

His wife gave him a level look. "It won't hurt for them to have a little extra backup. That cult has been linked to the disappearance of countless people."

The former smuggler groaned and folded his arms. "Sure, why not? Jedi babysitter, spy, errand boy. Anything else on the list?"

The blond Jedi looked at him with faint relief. "We could use you, Han."

Han sighed, shaking his head in resignation. "Not sure I'm buying this whole cult story. Sounds more like some overgrown crime syndicate... my kind of people. And let's face it…" he jerked a thumb toward Luke, "…sounds like the kid could use a hand keeping her out of trouble."

"Ari's not going to like it," Luke warned. "But it'll help."

Leia smiled faintly. "Then it's done."

Han rolled his eyes. "Every time I think I'm out, you two drag me right back in."

Ari's Quarters - Late Evening

Ari leaned back on her bed, studying the object she had grabbed from Teth. It was something she had been frantically trying to find for a while. How could she have been so careless?

The star compass pendant with Luke's initials etched on the back lay in her hand.

Flashback – Mos Eisley Marketplace, Years Earlier

Thirteen-year-old Ari wove through the crowded market, clutching a basket of herbs. She froze when she spotted Luke Skywalker at a parts stall. Nineteen, sunlit hair, blue eyes like the sky. Her neighbor, and suddenly the most handsome boy she had ever seen.

Her father's orders whispered in her head: Watch him. One day, win him. For the Empire.

But Ari wasn't thinking about orders. She was thirteen, and her stomach fluttered when his gaze found hers.

"You're from the east farms, right?" Luke asked with an easy smile. "Don't stay out in the suns too long." Then he was gone, lost in the crowd.

Ari's heart was still pounding when she noticed something shining on the ground. She bent over to pick up a small brass compass in the dust. The initials L.S. were scratched on the back. She hesitated, then slipped it into her pocket.

She should have been studying him like her father demanded. Instead, she kept the compass, her secret. Her first crush.

A soft knock at the door tore Ari from her thoughts. Normally, she would have reached for her blaster, but she knew who it was. She could always pick up his presence. She slipped the compass into her drawer before opening the door. Luke stood there holding out an alien flower, its delicate blue petals shimmering under the corridor light.

Ari felt herself blushing, despite herself. "Thank you," she said, taking the flower.

"I'm sorry it's late, but I saw the light on... Do you have a minute?"

She hesitated, "I was just about to go to bed."

"It won't take long, its important," he insisted.

Ari felt herself weakening. "Okay, you can come in, but just for a few minutes. And no funny business."

Luke smiled. "I have a degree of self-control. You, on the other hand, I'm not so sure about."

She shot him a look of mock annoyance before closing the door behind him.

He sat down at her small table. "So, any idea why so many people are looking for you, only to end up dead or missing?"

"Wh.. what?" Ari nearly spilled the glass of water she had been setting the flower in.

"You know nothing about an investigator or police tracking you for murder?" Luke pressed.

Ari looked shocked, but not for the reason Luke thought she did. "No!"

Luke proceeded to fill her in on what he knew. Teth's death, the missing officers, the pattern that was emerging. "I think you're in danger."

Ari snorted, shaking her head. "Luke, I'm fine. You know perfectly well that I can take care of myself."

"That's what I'm afraid of." His voice grew serious. "I want you to be extra careful until we figure out what exactly is going on. Keep a low profile if you know what I mean."

Ari raised her brow.

Luke leaned in closer, dropping his voice. "No lightning."

She looked upset. "Is that all you will ever associate me with?"

"No, Ari..." The handsome Jedi reached his hand across the table before deciding to move it back. "I just don't want, what... " He stopped thinking better of it, before standing up. "I should go, we both need to get some sleep before we search the village tomorrow.

"Sure," she said standing to walk him to the door.

"Okay, then. Goodnight, Ari." He looked at her for a moment, his blue eyes reaching her in a way that made her blood race. Then he was gone, leaving her alone with the flower.

She sank onto her bed, pulling out the compass from her drawer. She stared at it for a moment, before putting fastening it around her neck.

Dantooine – Shuttle Bay, Pre-Mission

Ari adjusted the strap of her blaster holster, ignoring Han Solo's critical stare as he leaned against the freighter's ramp with his arms crossed. She checked herself in the mirror, turning around to make sure everything looked good from the back as well as the front.

"You know," Han said, "most people try to keep a low profile when half the galaxy's hunting them. You walk around like you're about to give a parade."

Ari shot him a look. "I forgot why you're here again?"

"Because your boyfriend's sister thinks I'm useful." Han muttered, shifting position. "Still not sure how she talked me into this."

"Useful?" Ari scoffed, holstering her blaster in annoyance. "I've been doing just fine without supervision."

"If leaving a trail of bodies behind you wherever you go is considered doing fine." He gestured vaguely at her weapon. "You even know how to use that thing without blowing a hole through the hull?"

"Better than you know how to keep your ship from falling apart."

Han pressed a hand to his chest, his mouth dropping open in mock offense. "Careful, Luke's Girlfriend. That ship's got more character than most people I know."

Ari tilted her head, smirking. "Explains why you get along with it better than your wife."

Luke appeared at the bottom of the ramp, frowning as he caught the tail end of their exchange. "What's going on with you two? You've been bickering since we started planning this mission. Are you going to fight the cult, or each other?"

"Why is he here telling me how to do everything I've done a million times without him?" Ari complained.

Han poked a thumb toward Ari, "I'm just making sure she doesn't get us all killed."

Ari folded her arms. "Don't worry. If I do, I'll make sure you're the first to go."

Han gave her a long look, then chuckled under his breath. "Figures. Acts all sweet at first. Then you try working with her!"

Ruunstead - Small Remote Village on Dantooine

"They burned down everything!" Ari said in disbelief as they wandered through the ruined farming village. The smell of charred wood hung thick in the air. "Half the village has been slaughtered and the other half have disappeared."

"Their signature." Luke muttered, studying a barn door painted with the same jagged spiral symbol they had found on the necklace.

"They want us to see it."

Luke nodded grimly. "Or they want her to."

Han glanced at Ari, brushing soot from his sleeve. "And who's 'her' again? Asking for the guy who didn't get the creepy cult newsletter."

Ari shoved a copy of the literature into his hand. "Here's your newsletter."

Han squinted at the pamphlet. "Homework? Figures. Always the pretty ones, huh kid?"

Luke shot Han a warning look.

Han threw up his hands. "Déjà vu all over again."

They followed Luke to the ruins of the town square where a huge circle of blackened stones had been formed. Inside the circle sat a massive pile of charred bones. The stench made all three of them step back, covering their noses.

"Now we know where the other half of the village vanished to." Ari noted, trying to breathe through her mouth.

Han grimaced, pulling his shirt up over his nose. "Great. Let's all stand in the death circle longer. I'm sure nothing could possibly go wrong with that plan."

A shout cut through their tense silence. Luke waved them over to a collapsed barn, where a man lay half-buried in soot and hay. He was about Luke's age, dark-haired and pale, with blood staining his torn shirt. His eyes fluttered open as they approached.

"Easy," Luke said gently, crouching beside him. "You're safe now."

"They... were chanting... then fire everywhere..." he rasped, coughing violently. Blood flecked his lips. "They killed my parents. I had to hide..." His voice cracked, and his whole body began shaking as grief overtook him. "I couldn't save them. I just... I just hid like a coward."

"You survived," Ari said softly as she helped Luke uncover him from the debris. "That's not cowardice."

Luke helped him sit upright. "What's your name?"

"David Namale," the man croaked, then doubled over coughing again.

Ari studied him as his breathing steadied. Despite the grime and trauma, he was clearly handsome, with black hair that contrasted sharply with striking green eyes. When his eyes met hers, she found herself glancing away.

"We'll get you back to base," Luke said.

David shook his head frantically, grabbing Luke's arm. "There's no time. They'll come back. They said they would take... her." His gaze locked on Ari again.

"You're in shock," Ari said uncomfortable.

Luke's hand tightened protectively on David's shoulder. "You're safe now." He helped David to his feet before pulling out his macrobinoculars to scan the horizon. "I'm going to take a quick look around."

"I'll come with you," Han interjected, already moving toward Luke.

"Somebody should watch Ari and David, in case there are cult members around."

"Luke!" Ari's voice rose sharply.

Han winced. "I knew that one was coming, kid."

"I'm a trained soldier. I don't need protecting." Ari protested. "I'm quite capable of taking care of both Mr. Namale and myself."

"Out of the question, Ari." Luke's tone left no room for argument. "You see what they did to all those people in the town square. This has nothing to do with your capabilities as a soldier. We don't know what we're dealing with yet."

"So how come you get to run around and explore?" Ari snapped, planting her hands on her hips. "You're in the same position I am."

"That's different," Luke argued, his shoulders stiffening. "And as your senior in command, I order you to..."

"Don't do it, kid." Han looked back and forth between them like he was watching a game of smash ball. "Listen, why don't we all just stay together? I've seen this argument before, and it never ends well."

Luke sighed with visible irritation. "Fine. Let's go." He started moving forward. "You two stay close behind us."

Ari walked alongside David, noting how he kept favoring his left side. "You're hurt?" she asked, nodding at the blood on his shirt.

"It's not my blood," he replied quietly, his voice hollow.

"Oh." She wished the man would stop staring at her such intensity. "Well, let me know if you have any problems keeping up. Those two are probably going to be moving kind of fast."

"You're truly beautiful," he murmured suddenly.

"Excuse me?" she said sharply, stopping in her tracks.

Han turned around with an exaggerated groan. "You've got competition," he called to Luke with obvious amusement.

Luke's expression tightened, but he kept his eyes fixed on the hilltop ahead. "Stay behind us," he repeated as they climbed higher.

The first signs of dusk were starting to show as the four of them began to traipse up the mushy hillside. The sunset on the horizon bled pink into purple, painting the sky in soft fire.

"We're going to have to turn back," Luke noted. "Its getting dark fast and we'll be easy prey." Just as he said that a dark shadow slowly started to form behind him

"Looks like we already are," Han muttered starting to reach for his blaster.

The shadow drew closer forming into the shape of a beautiful woman. She started dancing around the hilltop, her moves fluid and graceful as she leapt, twirled and pirouetted, casting a mesmerizing illusion against the horizon.

"Why are we standing here watching some dancing girl?" Ari said irritated.

"Jealous?" Han smirked.

Ari rolled her eyes. " Hardly, she's not even very good."

Her comment was cut off as a shock staff hurled out of the air missing them by barely an inch.

Then more dancing shadows appeared on the horizon, this time turning out to be about 30 men dressed in crimson robes and bone-white masks, emerging from the ruins like insects with long, gleaming shock staffs.

"Guess she was the opening act," Han said, his blaster now pointed firmly towards the spectacle.

"The cult," Luke breathed.

"It's okay, we'll protect you," Ari told David, stepping slightly in front of him. All three of them pointed their weapons towards the oncoming group.

The cult members did a strange jiggle down the hill as they chanted and sang. They stopped about 20 feet away from Luke's group. Then three of them came significantly closer bowing before Ari as they dropped down to their knees on the grass.

"Get back from her," Luke yelled, his lightsaber poised to cut anyone down who went too close.

The middle one who seemed to be the leader wore a more colorful and garish version of the mask. He lifted his head to make eye contact as he spoke to Ari in a polite calm voice. "Child of Palpatine, Daughter of the Dark Side, we have prayed for this day. Today our sacred mother arrives..."

He was cut off as Ari fired her blaster, shooting him in the forehead. The worshipper stared at her wide eyed for a moment before falling face forward on the grass.

"Ari!" Luke's voice cracked between shock and anger.

"Well he called me his mother." she replied defensively.

Han, raised an eyebrow, "Would you have preferred queen?" He shot a look over at Luke. "You sure you've got her under control there, Commander? 'Cause from here it looks like she's running the mission and the firing squad."

Luke groaned dragging a hand down his face, muttering, "We'll talk about this later, Ari."

The cult members at the front were also in shock, leaning over their fallen leader. They looked up at Ari, their masked faces turning menacing.

Luke ignited the lightsaber with a sharp snap-hiss. "Don't even think about it. She's not your Daughter of the Dark Side. Move away from her."

Han raised his blaster, scanning the growing crowd. "Yeah, and unless you've got a backup cult leader hiding back there, things are about to get really awkward."

There was a scream as the cultists suddenly surged forward in a coordinated rush, all of them charging toward Ari with fanatic determination. Blaster fire cracked through the air and several fell, but more kept coming. Luke spun and slashed, his lightsaber carving blue arcs through their ranks. Ari fired methodically until a shock staff slammed into her arm and she screamed falling to the ground, electricity lancing through her body.

"Ari!" Luke yelled, but he was unable to go to her as more cult members poured from the ruins.

As Ari struggled to push herself up from the ground, she spotted another cult member raising his shock staff behind Luke's back. Luke was completely focused on the three attackers in front of him.

"No!" she screamed. "Stop!"

The Force erupted from within her like a dam bursting. The ground trembled and cracked like it was about to split wide open.

The cultists one by one were lifted in the air, and then they started flying... into rocks, into each other, into the ruin walls where they slammed and crumpled broken on the ground.

Ari's power was unhinged and devastating, unlike anything Luke had ever witnessed. He froze mid-swing, staring in both awe and terror. "Ari."

She didn't hear him or didn't listen. Another wave of Force energy rippled outward, hurling the remaining cultists away with invisible strength. Then, suddenly, there was silence. The masked zealots lay scattered across the hillside like broken dolls.

"Han!" Luke shouted suddenly. "Thermal detonator. Finish them!"

Han who had been watching the show with morbid fascination, snapped out of it and immediately understood. He pulled a detonator from his belt and hurled it toward the pile of groaning, barely-moving cultists. The explosion shook the ground, sending up a cloud of dust and debris.

David's voice cut through the ringing in their ears. "You saved us."

Han whistled, lowering his smoking blaster as he surveyed the carnage. "Well, that was thoroughly unpleasant. Anyone else need therapy after this?"

Ari slumped to the ground, exhausted and trembling from the Force exertion. Luke ran over to her, crouching down beside her. He put his arm around her helping her sit up. "Ari, are you okay?" He brushed a stray curl back from her face.

She nodded, embarrassed that he had witnessed her complete loss of control.

"You need training. Real training." His voice was gentle but firm. "Your power is incredible, but it's unleashed."

"I can handle it," she shot back, pushing Luke aside to stand on shaky feet.

"You don't have control," he argued, concerned.

Those words hit a nerve. "You sound just like..." She cut herself off. "I said I can handle it, Luke."

Luke flinched at her tone. "Okay," he said quietly, backing down.

David stepped closer, his gaze fixed on her with adoration. "I think you're amazing."

Han snorted. "Amazing? She decorated the hillside with those guys. I've seen less mess come out of a rancor."

Rebel Base — Medical Bay, Dantooine

The antiseptic tang of bacta filled the air as med droids hovered around Ari's cot. She sat on the edge of the bed in a medical gown, her arm freshly bandaged.

Luke was still wound up from the battle, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. Han sprawled in a chair beside him, his boots comfortably propped up on a second chair.

"This whole thing smells off," Han said under his breath, watching David across the room. "Guy shows up half-dead in a barn, immediately starts making heart-eyes at her? I've seen this con before."

"He's just traumatized." Luke said sharply, though his eyes never left David.

"If you say so. So what's up with the Force Goddess over there? You didn't tell me she could flip men like nerf burgers."

"Its a long story, Han but we can't let anybody know what she did." His voice dropped to a whisper. "People would fear her and I'm not going to let them do to her what they did to Callista."

Han's expression softened. "I won't say anything, kid. But we're going to have to sell the hell out of that thermal detonator story."

Across the room, David was submitting to the med droids' scans with obvious reluctance. He glanced over and offered Ari a faint smile. "You're watching me," he said softly.

"I was doing no such thing," she replied curtly, but her cheeks colored slightly.

"You were," he said, amused. "And I like it."

Ari rolled her eyes and turned away before he could see her reaction.

Luke pushed off the wall. "You need rest," he told David, his voice cooler than the air conditioner. "Not conversation."

David's smile turned melancholy. "Rest is easier when someone cares if you wake up." His voice carried a note of genuine loneliness that made even Han do a double take.

"He's good." Han muttered. "Does he rehearse this stuff, or is it natural talent?"

Before Luke could respond, the med bay doors hissed open. General Rieekan marched in the room looking very military and official.

"Skywalker, Solo, Starborne." His sharp gaze swept over them. "Didn't expect you to eliminate the entire cult on your first day of the mission, but I must say I'm extremely pleased with the results. As thanks for your exceptional work, we'll be holding a celebration tonight in your honor. Excellent work, all of you." He paused, looking over at David. "How's our survivor?"

"Stable," Luke said reluctantly.

"Talkative," Han added with a meaningful look.

Rieekan's eyebrows rose slightly. "Very good. We will need him as a witness for our reports to the High Council. If the cult left him alive, he may know more than he realizes." He turned to Ari with a decisive nod. "He seems comfortable with you, Officer Starborne. You'll be responsible for his security detail and debriefing until further notice."

Ari blinked. "Sir, I..."

"Thank you, Starborne. I'll be considering you for promotion based on your performance here." Rieekan's tone made it clear the matter was settled. "Get him talking. Find out what he saw before the attack. Dismissed."

He left as abruptly as he'd arrived, leaving stunned silence in his wake.

Han leaned back in his chair with a grin. "Well, congratulations, Starborne. From field agent to babysitter... really moving up in the world."

Ari shot him a look. "You're hardly one to talk, considering your wife has you babysitting us."

Han smirked. "Yeah, but I pick my babysitting shifts. Leia just assigns yours."

Ari gave him a sly smile. "That's fine, Solo. I'm sure he'll prefer me over a scruffy bantha like you anyway."

Luke frowned. "What do you mean prefer you? I don't like this arrangement."

"You're really sweating it, after what she just pulled out there?" Han gestured vaguely toward the door. "Kid's got more firepower than a Star Destroyer."

"Ari can never let anybody see her do that again," Luke snapped, his voice sharp with worry.

David's smile widened as he caught the tail end of their conversation. "Don't worry, Commander. I won't say a word and I'll be on my best behavior for Officer Starborne. I think we will get along just fine."

Later — David's Quarters

Ari keyed the door open and stepped inside the small quarters assigned to David. He was lounging on the edge of the bed as if he'd been waiting for her.

"You look like you'd rather be anywhere else," he said lightly.

"I would," Ari replied flatly, pulling up the datapad she'd brought. "Let's get this over with. Tell me what you remember about the night of the attack."

David tilted his head, studying her. "Straight to business. No small talk?"

"This isn't a social call."

"Shame. You'd be good at it," he murmured. "Under all that armor you wear."

"Focus, please."

He sighed, looking less confident as he leaned back on his elbows. "Fine. They came at sunset I remember because my mother was hanging laundry. Then the chanting started." His voice grew quieter. "Fire everywhere. The screams... You know the rest."

"That's all you can remember?"

David's hands trembled slightly. "Hard to remember details when you're trying not to die. When you're listening to your neighbors burn." Then his tone suddenly softened. "I remember you, though. You were the first thing I saw after it was over. It felt like seeing the sun again."

Outside in the hallway, Luke stiffened as he leaned against the wall. He'd only meant to check to make sure she was okay, but now he was trying to suppress his anger as he overheard their conversation.

David's voice smoothed. "Your eyes show that someone broke your heart."

"No one broke my heart," Ari said too quickly, her cheeks flushing.

"Then maybe you just gave it to the wrong person." His smile was from ear-to-ear. "Skywalker, maybe?".

Ari's flush deepened as she looked away.

David's eyes glittered with satisfaction. "He's going to hurt you eventually. Men like him always do. They're very principled. Sure they'll flirt with you now, have their fun. But, its the good girl from the good family he will settle down with." He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a silky whisper. "You deserve someone who won't judge you."

Ari swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry. "This isn't part of the debrief."

"Maybe not," he said, settling back with a knowing smile, "but it's the part you should hear."

Outside, Luke stepped back from the door, infuriated. David was trying to drive a wedge further between them.

And it seemed to be working.

Celebration Hall

Luke Skywalker stood in the corner of the room, his blue eyes narrowing as he watched Ari dance with David.

The waltz ended to polite applause, and before Ari could slip back into the crowd, David kept her hand firmly in his. He gave her a polite bow. "It's stuffy in here. Let's get some air."

She hesitated, her gaze darting instinctively toward Luke again.

David gave her a disarming smile. "Don't worry. He'll survive without you under his scrutiny for a few minutes."

She sighed, allowing him to lead her toward the side doors. The noise of the celebration faded behind them as the quiet corridors of the base stretched ahead.

Base Corridors

Ari started to feel uncomfortable. "David, I should get back..."

"Back to what?" His tone shifted slightly. "Another round of applause for Skywalker? Another reminder that no matter what you do, he'll always be the golden boy while you're..." He let the sentence trail off with a faint shrug.

Her eyes narrowed. "While I'm what?"

David stopped, turning to face her. "Sorry, Ari. I didn't mean it like that. I just… I've been watching the two of you. You shouldn't have to change yourself for anyone." His fingers slid into hers as he tried to move closer. "I think you're perfect just the way you are."

She stepped back sharply, but David grabbed on to her arm, trying to kiss her. She pulled away. "David... don't." But he was stronger and tried again.

"David, stop," she hissed, jerking her head back.

And then another voice thundered through the corridor.

"Get away from her!"

Both turned. Luke was already storming toward them, his eyes blazing. He didn't even slow down before his fist connected squarely with David's jaw.

The impact cracked through the quiet hall, sending David stumbling back against the wall, clutching his face.

"What in the nine Corellian hells, Skywalker?" David spat, blood on his lip.

Luke positioned himself squarely in front of Ari, one arm instinctively shifting her behind him. His chest heaved with fury, every muscle taut. "Don't ever touch her again."

David's smile was mocking as he wiped his mouth. "Oh, that's rich. Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker, playing the jealous boyfriend. Thought you were above that."

"Try me again," Luke snapped, his hand twitching near his lightsaber.

"Luke!" Ari stepped between them, her voice shaky.

"He tried to force himself on you," Luke snapped. "I saw it."

"I could've handled it!" Her tone was defensive, though her heart was still racing.

Luke's jaw tightened. "You call that handling it? He had his hands all over you..."

David straightened up, and despite the blood on his lip, a shadow of triumph glinted in his eyes. "You won't always be able to protect her, Skywalker. One day she'll realize you can't save her from herself."

"Get out," Luke growled.

David smirked, nursing his jaw as he stalked off down the corridor.

Everything was silent for a moment, the tension between Luke and Ari visible in the empty corridor.

"Are you okay?" Luke finally asked her.

She nodded, hesitating for a moment before asking, "Why were you watching us?"

Luke looked guilty for a moment, dropping his gaze. "I guess I just didn't like the idea of him touching you."

"That's rich after Callista," she muttered.

Luke's mouth fell open. "Is that what this is about?"

She folded her arms tightly, turning her face away from him. "Well, I didn't forget. It makes sense that you would prefer some decorated Jedi knight after seeing me with the lightning."

Luke turned her to face him fully. "Ari, listen to me. I don't care about your powers. None of that changes who you are to me."

Her arms folded tighter across her chest, her jaw trembling as though she were trying not to believe him.

He stepped closer, lowering his voice. "I think you're using Callista and the lightning as an excuse not to be with me. Why? "

The sound of approaching footsteps interrupted them.

"What'd I miss? Duel at dawn? Somebody insult your lightsaber?" Han stepped out into the corridors, his brows raised.

"Han, not now," Leia hissed, appearing beside him. "What happened? Is everybody okay? We heard you were fighting."

Luke sighed, beyond frustrated at the interruption.

"He attacked me," David suddenly appeared behind Han and Leia. "I was only talking to Ari. He flew at me."

Han snorted. "Yeah, and I'm the Queen of Naboo. Try harder, pal."

"Han," Leia warned, shooting him a look before turning on Luke. "You hit him? Are you out of your mind?"

"He put his hands on her," Luke protested.

David glanced at Ari, seizing the moment. "It's fine. I forgive him. He's obviously... protective." His green eyes flicked toward Luke. "I would be, too, if I was losing her."

Luke lunged, but Han caught his arm in a firm grip. "Easy, kid. You throw another punch and Leia's gonna have you writing apology letters until the next Republic Day."

Leia stepped closer to Luke, lowering her voice. "Luke, this isn't like you to use violence."

Luke's chest rose and fell like he'd just run a marathon.

Ari saw General Rieekan leaving the celebration hall. "Let me go distract him before he comes over," she said quickly, making her way toward the officer.

David smirked faintly at Luke. "Notice how she takes any excuse to get away from you she can?"

Han folded his arms, his expression unimpressed. "Funny, coming from a guy who can't get a kiss without using a headlock."

David's smile faded for a moment before he turned and stalked away.

Rebel Base – Hangar Bay – Later That Night

David's mocking words still echoed in Luke's mind as he found himself alone in the hangar, seeking solitude among the starfighters. He was sitting on an old supply crate near his X-wing, his elbows on his knees, staring at the floor.

"Wow." The voice echoed across the hangar. "Brooding in the dark next to your starfighter. Classic Skywalker move."

Luke sighed without looking up. "Go away, Han."

"Can't. I'm invested now." Han walked closer, his hands in his jacket pockets. "Gotta see how this romantic tragedy plays out."

"It's played out. Didn't help that David filled her head with poison."

Han supplied, "Something about that guy doesn't sit right with me."

"You mean aside from him being an all-around creep?"

Han nodded grimly. "The way he tried to move in on her... that wasn't some traumatized survivor. That was predatory."

"I should have seen it earlier."

"Hey." Han's voice was surprisingly gentle. "You can either beat yourself up about it, or remind her why she fell for you in the first place. Do something only you would do. If it doesn't work, then maybe it's time to let her go."

Luke nodded, a look if hope appearing on his face. "Maybe you're right. What should I do?"

"You're the Jedi. Figure it out."

Luke let out a reluctant laugh, some of the tension breaking.

"Good. Now try not to look like a kicked bantha next time she walks by."

Han strolled off, whistling, leaving Luke alone with his thoughts and a spark of determination.

Ari's Quarters

Ari leaned her head back on her pillow, her mind replaying the confrontation between Luke and David. She closed her eyes and suddenly she was nine again, under Tatooine's brutal twin suns.

A gang of older boys had cornered her behind Anchorhead's market stalls. "Starborne," one of them sneered, shoving her so she hit the sand. "You don't belong here. Go back to whatever rock you crawled out from." The others laughed along.

She had been small and angry, her fists rolled up, trying not to cry. She thought about using the lightning, but Father would kill her. Then a voice cut in. "Hey! Leave her alone."

A lanky 15-year-old Luke Skywalker stepped into the circle without hesitation, limbs like wire but fire in his eyes. He wasn't intimidating physically, but something about his presence stopped the other kids for a moment.

They jeered and muttered about "Wormy sticking his nose in," but they eventually drifted off, grumbling under their breath. Ari, still on the ground, had looked up at him, stunned, as Luke offered her a hand.

"You okay?" he asked, his blue eyes sparkling in the sun as he offered his hand to help her up.

The memory faded, but the ache it left behind did not. All these years later, Luke was still stepping in between her and the darkness.

The Following Evening – Courtyard

Ari's boots crunched on the gravel as she crossed the courtyard, taking her usual evening stroll after a long day spent in her department. She had her arms wrapped around herself tightly to fend off the cool night air.

Then she saw him.

Luke sat on the bench watching her. The silver light from the moons caught in his blond hair and made him look younger, like the boy who had rescued her years ago.

He stood up as she walked closer, holding something behind his back.

"Hi," he said softly.

"Hi." She slowed down but kept walking.

"Ari, wait."

She paused reluctantly. "Luke, please."

He stepped closer to her. "I just wanted to give you this."

He held out a small box. She frowned but took it, flipping the clasp. Inside was an old, slightly scuffed holo: the two of them laughing on their first mission together, looking dusty but absurdly happy.

Ari couldn't help smiling despite herself.

"I found it in my flight bag," Luke said quietly. "Figured you wouldn't still have yours."

She groaned, trying to sound angry, but she wasn't really. She closed the box. "Why are you doing this to me?"

"Because I messed everything up the first time," he smiled.

"Luke, you had a reason to be angry at me. I should never have lied to you."

"Ok, so we both made a mess of everything. I don't understand why we can't just put it all behind us?"

"Things are just more complicated than you think?"

He took a step closer, "Nothing can be that bad, Ari. Talk to me. What is standing in the way of us being together? "

There was a long silence as Ari looked like she was wrestling with herself. She went over and sank down on the bench,still holding the box. She let out a light laugh as she looked at the photo of them again. "We did have fun that day, didn't we?"

Luke smiled taking her hand, "Come here, please." He pulled her into a big hug. Ari didn't resist, resting her head against his shoulder.

"You're impossible to say no to, you know that?" she half griped.

"Then don't say no, and life will be much easier for you," Luke grinned pulling her in for a kiss.

Her hands slid into the softness of his hair. "I hate how much I need you."

"You don't need me," he murmured against her mouth. "You just love me."

"Same thing," she muttered, and kissed him again.

From the shadows outside the courtyard, someone watched. The bloodline that had once ruled the galaxy would not be denied.

The young Jedi had no idea what darkness was coming for them both.

Rebel Base — Courtyard — Later That Night

The four of them walked back from the Falcon under a sky scattered with stars. Leia and Han veered off home, still arguing affectionately over who was worse at dejarik.

Luke and Ari slowed near the ancient stone fountain, their fingers loosely intertwined as they paused to admire the fiery golden lights shimmering through the rushing water.

"We should do normal things more often," Ari said, lifting an eyebrow. "It's not so bad."

Luke offered her a warm smile. "Something I could definitely get used to," he replied, squeezing her hand.

Ari noticed the way he was looking at her, his blue eyes meeting hers with unexpected intensity.

"Uh-oh," Ari murmured, half-teasing. "That look means you're about to get serious. Am I in trouble?"

Luke let out a soft laugh. "You? Never." His smile wavered. "But there is something important I need to talk to you about."

Her smile faded, Okay?"

His gaze dropped to their joined hands, "I kind of have some big news... I'm going back to Yavin IV to teach at the academy."

"Oh," her face dropped. "So you're done at the base?"

He nodded. "I was only here to help out for a bit. The academy is where I belong."

Ari tried to hide her disappointment. "Well I completely understand, of course. When do you leave?"

Luke hesitated for a moment before he spoke again. "Ari, I would like you to come with me... as my wife."

She laughed seeming confused. "What? That's not funny."

Luke's face flushed. "I'm not doing a very good job of this." He reached into his pocked, withdrawing a small velvet box. "I'm trying to ask you to marry me."

Ari looked down at the box and then back at him. "Luke, you're being serious? We just got back together. What if we mess this up again? "

"Then together we'll figure out how to fix it." His voice was now filled with conviction. He opened the box. Inside sat a simple white-gold band set with a clear stone that caught the colors of the starlight. "I'm not that farm boy anymore, chasing trouble across the galaxy. I've learned a lot… and I think you and I, we make a good team."

For a moment, she could only stare at the ring, then at his hopeful face which suddenly looked so boyish again. She suddenly felt tired of it all. She had lived her entire life under the fear that her identity would be revealed. She couldn't remember a moment when she wasn't under the shadow of her father who was now long dead. Let her identity die with him, it was time to give birth to a new one. Arianna Skywalker.

"You're insane, Luke Skywalker," she said with a smirk.

"And?" he asked.

"And that's why I'm going to marry you. I never have to worry about a dull moment."

His face lit up as he slipped the ring onto her finger. The moment it settled into place, the reality seemed to hit him. He let out a whoop of triumph that echoed across the courtyard, pure farm boy exuberance, before scooping her up and spinning her around.

Across the courtyard in the shadows, David spoke on his comm. "It's time. Prepare sector seven for her. Yes, I'm certain."

He paused, listening to the voice on the other end, his face hardening to stone. "The transport, the containment chamber, and the surgical apparatus," he snapped.

He shoved the comm into his pocket before angrily disappearing into the twisting halls.

Leia and Han's House — The Following Evening

The small house smelled of roasted meiloorun and spiced caf. Jaina and Jacen chased each other around the holo-table while little Anakin sat on the floor arranging blocks into a wobbly tower. Leia stepped out from the kitchen with a tray of juice drinks just as the door chimed.

"Uncle Luke!" Jaina squealed, running to hug him. Ari gave Jacen a high-five as she followed Luke inside.

Han leaned against the doorway, drying his hands on a dish towel. "Well, don't you two look suspiciously happy. Somebody win the lottery or what?"

Luke struggled to keep a straight face. "Not exactly. We came to share some news."

"She's pregnant," Han said. "Luke, you..."

Leia set the tray on the table, cutting him off. "Han, let them talk."

Ari took a deep breath. "Luke and I… we're getting married."

For a moment, the room fell silent. Then Jaina shrieked, "I knew it! SEE, I TOLD YOU!" She made a face at Jacen.

Jacen shot back one significantly more offensive. "Can I do the music at your wedding?" he added once his face returned to normal. "I have a great remix of the Imperial March"

Ari shot a look of alarm to Luke.

"Jacen," Luke said smiling at his nephew. "I'd really like it if she turns up for the wedding. You can do the music, with your parents approval. But, nothing Imperial please."

"Hey," Han shrugged, "anything that keeps them from rewiring my ship is fine by me."

"Can I throw throw stuff?" asked Jaina.

"Just so long as its flower petals and not detonators," Ari laughed.

Han leaned back, arms crossed, a slight grin on his face. "Great. Just what the Alliance needs. Another Skywalker making life complicated."

Ari smiled. "And you thought I was bad as a Starborne. I was just getting warmed up."

"Guess I'd better start reinforcing the Falcon for family reunions." Han muttered almost to himself.

Leia crossed to Luke, embracing him tightly before turning to Ari. "You realize what you're getting yourself into, right?" she asked, eyes warm with affection.

"What kind of wedding were you thinking of having?"

"Something small and private," Ari looked over at Luke. "We don't want to be all over the tabloids. We were thinking Naboo, by the waterfalls."

Han raised his mug. "Just make sure there's a landing pad big enough for the Falcon. And maybe some cover fire."

Luke laughed, surveying the room, looking at all the smiling faces of the people he loved the most.

"When's this happening?" Leia asked, already in planning mode. "Please tell me you're not going to drag this out for years."

Luke glanced at Ari. "Lunar Festival?"

Ari nearly spat out her drink. "That's three weeks away! You can't be serious."

Leia was already scrolling through her datapad. "What are you doing tomorrow?"

"My job?"

"Try dress shopping. Rieekan can spare you. It's not every day the hero of the galaxy gets married. And we don't have much time."

Ari gulped, suddenly realizing how real it had become. "It's very important, Leia, that I find a dress I can wear this with." She pulled the compass from under her shirt. "It means a lot to me."

She proceeded to tell the story to a smiling Leia, who pulled her aside to discuss the plans.

Later, exhaustion tugged at Ari and she slipped outside for fresh air. Luke had disappeared somewhere with Han while Leia was busy putting the children to bed. Ari made her way to the swing in the backyard and sat there, smiling to herself. Her gaze drifted toward the dark fields and trees of Dantooine. Only a couple of lights along the fence cut the shadows, and her smile faltered as instinct told her she was being watched.

A twig snapped. A faint rustle in the bushes.

Your nerves are getting the better of you, Ari. Everything will be fine. This is what you wanted. What your father wanted.

The last thought twisted her gut. How ironic. She was doing exactly what her father had ordered her to do.

That wretched old man. Thank the stars he wasn't alive to ruin this.

She wondered what his plan had been all those years ago for her and Luke. Did she need to worry about their children, if they had any? Would one bloodline dominate, or would they be a strange mix? Her mind began to race.

Stop this, Ari. They will be fine. With Luke as their father and the Solo family around, they will not turn out to be little monsters. You're just looking for any excuse not to be happy.

"Kinda dark and creepy out here, isn't it?"

Ari nearly jumped out of her skin.

"Sorry, didn't mean to scare you," Luke said with a grin, settling into the swing beside her. "I thought we agreed no more running off."

"I hardly call sitting outside in the yard running off," she teased.

"I tried calling you through the Force, but you didn't respond?"

"Strange, I didn't hear you," she said, frowning. "My mind was probably occupied."

They both fell silent, a happy, comfortable stillness settling between them.

"You know you've made me the happiest man in the galaxy," Luke mused.

She smiled, resting her head on his shoulder. "Lunar Festival? I knew you were crazy."

"There's no reason to wait," he reasoned.

"You're right. The sooner we get married, the sooner we can have a wedding night," she grinned.

"Is that all you think about?"

"Luke, stop!" She started laughing.

A shooting star crossed the sky and they both looked up, admiring the lights.

She tilted her head. "What am I going to do on Yavin IV?" she asked curiously. "Is there a job for me?"

He smiled. "You could be my full-time student."

Ari blinked, then laughed softly. "Its a Jedi academy. I'm not a Jedi."

"There's no pressure," Luke said gently. "But you have everything it takes if you ever decide to try."

Her brows lifted, then she shook her head. "No, I'm not like you, Luke."

Luke's eyes warmed as he held her gaze. "Will you stop selling yourself short? You're courageous, you know how to trust your instincts, you manage to stay calm in chaos and you care about people. You have so many amazing qualities that for some reason you just can't see in yourself."

Ari felt a glow of pride at his words, something she had never known in childhood. She drank it in, marveling at how good it felt. "You really think I have all that in me?"

"I know you do," he said with quiet certainty. "The Force is strong with you, Ari."

For a moment, she could only smile, the stars beyond the fields seeming to shine a little brighter.