"When we have each other we have everything"

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Chapter Thirteen

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Othanian Translations

Jyboki - Damn it

Jybok - Damn

Neod - Term of endearment roughly relating to 'honey'

Mando'a Translations

vod/vode - Brother/Brothers

Vode - Refers to the clones as a whole

Aay'han - bittersweet perfect moment of mourning and joy - *remembering and celebrating*

Vor'e - Thanks

Buir - Parent

Nu kyr'adyc, shi taab'echaaj'la - Not gone, merely marching away

Ad'ika - Term of endearment toward children

Ad/ade - Child/children

Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ad - Adoption Vow. 'I know your name as my child'

~*~

War was terrible. The death, sorrow, and suffering was overwhelming and often fed into the dark whispers constantly flitting around your mind. There was nothing worse than watching innocent people suffer because of the mistakes of the government as a whole.

But jyboki, paperwork came really close to being the worst sometimes.

It would have been more bearable if you were a normal general, as were most of the Jedi Knights and Masters. Instead, Yoda and Mace thought it would be a wonderful idea to promote you to Major General a couple of months into the war.

Yoda's explanation of your sudden promotion consisted of something related to the will of the Force - now you knew where Qui-Gon got it from - and some long winded blathering about responsibility. Mace had a simpler answer that still felt like an excuse. He claimed that because the clones trusted you so much because of what you'd done for them, you were an easy choice to lead more of them. You personally thought they were woefully unprepared for the amount of work that came with leading a war and were trying to spread it out.

You didn't even want to imagine what it was like being Obi-Wan. As a High General, he ranked above you (controlling many more units and overall holding more authority) and that likely meant more paperwork. Maybe you should ask about bringing in an aide-de-camp. It'd certainly help with the paperwork.

In conclusion, paperwork was the worst and you were eager to have an excuse to get out of it when your comm rang.

"This is Pavond."

"(Y/n)."

"Anakin," you set aside your paperwork so you could give your sort-of- former Padawan all of your attention, "What do you need?"

Comming was a bit unusual considering most of the time you, Obi-Wan, and Anakin preferred speaking over your familial Force bond. It was completely confidential and only had minor issues when it came to distance - though Anakin specifically never had much trouble no matter how far he was due to his power.

"Master Plo just reported from the Abregado System, he's tracked down Grievous' new mystery weapon."

"I see."

"He requested reinforcements, but then we lost contact. The assumption has been made that his fleet has been destroyed like the others," your heart stopped at the thought, "And the Council gave me and Ahsoka orders to maintain our position because of that. We technically can't go anywhere, but you're in between missions and if you just so happen to be travelling near Abregado..."

"You think I can go investigate and help my master until you and Ahsoka can find a way to sneak away and assist him anyway?" You asked with a raised brow, scoffing when Anakin had the audacity to look offended, "I practically raised you, Anakin. I know what you're thinking. Either way, Ahsoka would never stop bothering you until you found a way to help Master Plo."

"Does that mean-"

"Yes, I'll redirect our course toward Abregado. I want to be kept updated on your position, though."

"Deal."

"And I don't want you doing anything stupid."

"When have I ever done something like that?" Anakin smirked and ended the transmission, causing you to sigh and shake your head.

Comming the bridge, you gave orders to reroute to skim the Abregado system. You wouldn't be risking your fleet for this mission, so you'd get close and then take a single ship to carry out the rest of the potential rescue. Admiral Hashan reported you'd be there in a few hours.

Leaving your paperwork on your desk to be filled out later, you stepped out of you office and went off to track down the necessary personnel. Drifter would have to know so he could take over command of the ship, and if there were survivors in need of medical attention then Sparrow would need to be informed and probably come with you as well. Drifter would insist on an escort, so Clik would be good to have to handle the scanning systems...

You'd gotten too used to supporting Anakin's schemes.

~*~

A few short hours later and The Gray was flying along the edge of the Abregado System. You handed command over to Drifter under the guise of scouting ahead due to the potential threat of the mystery weapon. Plausible deniability at its finest.

Clik and Sparrow boarded a shuttle with you, and the three of you departed quickly.

"I want our scanners tuned in for emergency calls and lifeforms," you ordered, steering the ship closer to the ominous red planet in front of you. It looked like a ship graveyard, which wasn't a good sign.

"You got it, General."

Your personal comm chirped, signalling a call from Anakin, "Anakin, we've just arrived in the Abregado system. We're currently scanning for survivors."

"Snips and I are right behind you, we'll be there soon to help with the search."

"Search? Master, I thought we were looking for the weapon, not survivors."

Sighing in exasperation, you said, "Anakin, normally telling your companions your plan is a good idea."

"I was getting there. Over and out."

Rolling your eyes, you returned your gaze to the rubble field in front of you. It was hard to feel Force signatures that weren't on the same ship as you, the nothingness of space always made things muffled. All the same, you reached out in an attempt to seek out any survivors on your own.

Please be alive, Master

Your comm rang again, this time it was Obi-Wan. You winced, knowing he wasn't going to be happy, "Hello, Obi-Wan."

"I just had a very interesting conversation with Anakin."

"Really?"

"Oh yes, he seemed to be in the middle of a rescue attempt in the Abregado System. Tell me, where are you right now?"

"I am..." You tried to think of an answer that would be a half-lie but couldn't think of anything, "Also, in the Abregado System."

"That's what I thought you were going to say. I had to call Anakin and Ahsoka back to The Resolute so they wouldn't miss the rendezvous. However, you are under no such obligation."

Grinning, you realized what Obi-Wan was implying, "I will be awaiting further orders from the Council, in the meantime, however, I am afraid there are pressing matters to attend to."

"Then I won't keep you any longer. May the Force be with you, and be safe."

"I'll speak to you again soon, Obi-Wan. Don't worry." Ending the call, you noticed that Sparrow and Clik were staring at you, "What?"

"You and the General are kind of obvious," Sparrow stated bluntly.

"Yeah. You're cute, don't get us wrong! But still obvious," Clik added, "Whenever you're on missions together you have little moments that the Vode like to gossip about."

Laughing, you guided the ship under a larger piece of shrapnel, "We received special permission to get married around five years ago to 'secure the Othanian royal line should something happen to the first heir'. The only people who really know are my master, Master Yoda, Anakin, and a few of our closest friends. It's not like we need to keep it a secret though. It's just easier, in a way."

Less judgment, less criticism. Especially now that it was wartime. There could be questions brought up by the Order and the public if - Force forbid - your marriage got out about potential favoritism and an inability to properly work together. Even if the two of you were constantly paired up and never had any problems.

"General Skywalker's relationship is even more obvious," Clik chuckled, "Rex complains about having to make up excuses so he can call Senator Amidala all the time."

"That one is definitely an open secret," you agreed, aware that at the very least all of your friends and Anakin's knew about him and Padmé. You wouldn't be surprised if more people in the Order knew as well.

"I don't even think it can be considered- General, we have life forms!"

"Where?"

Following Clik's directions, you pushed the ship as fast as you dared to get to the distress signal. Whether or not your master had made it, you'd rescue whoever was out there.

"There, blaster fire!" Sparrow pointed at a spot just to the left, where sure enough red bursts of light broke through the blackness of space. Just beyond that was the telltale blue of a lightsaber.

"Master Plo," you sighed out in relief. The fact that he wasn't actually in the pod was nerve-wracking, but his face mask would be able to sustain him. As long as you rescued him before time ran it, he would be okay, "Sparrow, take over the guns. Shoot the droids if you can and their ship if you can't."

"On it."

Sparrow aimed for the droids ship first, hitting the cockpit without fail every time. Eventually, the controls were too damaged to continue crushing the escape pod. With that issue dealt with, Sparrow went for the droids. With the help of your master and the two troopers also outside of the ship, they were quickly shot down and destroyed.

"Open the hatch and activate the tractor beam."

The ship you took was luckily big enough to fit the entire escape pod inside, which saved a lot of hassle when it came to bringing in the survivors. The ship jerked and you knew that the escape pod was safely inside. Sparrow moved away from the guns immediately and went to treat the survivors.

A few moments after Sparrow left, your master entered the cockpit and took a seat. He seemed tired and was likely slightly injured by the pressure of space even if he didn't want to admit it.

"Tell me, were there any survivors?"

"We didn't find anybody else. I'm afraid the hunters must have destroyed the rest. I'm sorry, Master."

"You came to my rescue in my time of need," Master Plo reached over and placed a taloned hand on your shoulder, "Our losses were heavy and I shall mourn each one, but I feel pride in your actions as well."

"Thank you, Master," you placed your hand on his for a few moments before returning your attention to flying, "Was... did Wolffe survive, Master?"

"Yes, he did. He is, perhaps, worse off than the others as he didn't have the comfort of his armor. He sustained an injury in the field that the medics claimed his armor would agitate. He's been wearing greys."

"Then it's a good thing we got here before they could break through the pod," Drifter would have taken Wolffe's loss hard. You knew all of the command clones were close, "And the other survivors?"

"Sinker and Comet, two fine men. They fought well. My fleet tracked the mystery weapon to this system. That is when we found out it was an ion cannon."

"An ion cannon?"

"A weapon that neutralizes all power to our ships, leaving the targets defenseless."

"Generals, there's a massive vessel approaching," Clik warned.

Master Plo jumped into action, shutting off as many systems as he could, "Shut down the power systems before they detect us!"

Doing as he ordered, the three of you quickly shut off every system that ran the ship, floating in dead space. The enemy ship was massive, the cockpit nearly double the size of the ship you were currently in.

"It's going to hit us," you hissed, closing your eyes and reaching out with the Force. You felt your master's Force signature brush against yours, lending his assistance. Together, the two of you shifted your ship away from the destroyer, narrowly avoiding announcing your presence by slamming against the side.

The three of you watched for what felt like hours as the ship slowly flew around the side of the planet, disappearing from view. All of you let out a collective sigh of relief and turned the power systems back on. Without hesitation, you readjusted your course and left.

Inputting the Council's comm code first, you were greeted by Obi-Wan, Yoda, Mace, and the Chancellor. The others must have been busy, though the Chancellor's presence was a surprise.

"Masters, Chancellor, I have successfully rescued Master Koon and three other survivors. He knows what the weapon is. I'm requesting coordinates for the rendezvous point so he may share his information."

"Uninformed about this mission we were," Yoda hummed.

"I know, Masters. We were traveling near the Abregado System and I acted on my own authority, but I do not regret my actions."

The Chancellor chimed in, "Despite not asking for approval, Master Pavond's brave actions may have gained us the information we need to take out this new weapon."

"I agree," Obi-Wan always looked sour when he agreed with the Chancellor. You felt the same way, and were uncomfortable receiving his praise, "This information will be vital, and technically Master Pavond didn't disobey orders, they simply didn't ask for them."

"Yes," Mace sighed, and you just knew he had a headache, "Have you been in contact with Knight Skywalker, Master Pavond?"

Tilting your head innocently, you said, "I'm afraid I don't see how that's relevant, Master Windu."

"Of course you don't. We'll transmit the coordinates of the rendezvous to The Gray and await yours and Master Koon's report."

The call ended, and you allowed a chuckle to escape.

"I'm assuming Anakin and little 'Soka attempted to rescue us as well?" Your master asked.

"They did, but unlike me, they had orders they actually had to follow. I have no doubt they would have ignored them if I wasn't there. Mace should count his blessing that I'm the one who actually rescued you. Anakin always causes a worse headache."

"I'm afraid that entire line of Master Yoda's lineage has always been quite adept at causing trouble for the Council."

"And yet the High Council voted Obi-Wan in."

"Obi-Wan, at the very least, is good at hiding how much trouble he truly is."

Smiling proudly at the subtle deviousness of your husband, you nodded your head in agreement while continuing to fly toward The Gray.

~*~

While Anakin was placed in charge of the strike force that would actually attack the new Separatist weapon - with help from Master Plo - you were being sent off to a Kaminoan medical facility alongside Obi-Wan. According to intelligence, it was Grievous' next target.

Anakin would be going ahead with his team and Master Plo through on a more dangerous path through a nebula, whilst you and Obi-Wan would be taking a safer route that would be slower.

With time to kill you decided to check on Wolffe, Sinker, and Comet in the medbay. According to Sparrow and the other medics they were doing well and recovering quickly, which meant they were up for visitors.

"Hello, vode," you greeted the three troopers, receiving similar greetings, "How are you feeling?"

"Much better, Ser," Comet replied.

"No 'Sers' when all of us are off duty, it's unnecessary professionalism," you stated what had been an unspoken rule on the ship, "If I can be vod then I can be (Y/n), too."

"You never were one for protocol," Wolffe chuckled, though he sobered quickly, his Force presence becoming muted and tinged with guilt.

"What's on your mind, Wolffe?"

"Why us?"

"Why you what?"

"Why did the three of us live when the rest of our vode... I understand it's a risk of the war. But it was everyone. Everyone except us."

Sinker and Comet nodded along, likely agreeing with every word. You'd encountered survivor's guilt many times before, with fellow Jedi and Vode alike. It was one of Obi-Wan's biggest struggles after Qui-Gon's death.

Pulling up a chair next to Wolffe's bed, you took his hand in yours, "As Jedi, we hold onto the belief that all death has meaning. That those who pass are now one with the Force and at peace. Perhaps the Force kept the three of you alive for a reason, or perhaps it was just luck that you ended up with Master Plo and therefore had the best odds for survival. Either way, you are alive, and you are the legacy of the vode that aren't here. Do something with that. The reason you lived is something none of us may understand, but you are here and you can make something of that."

The three soldiers each had tears in their eyes that they were valiantly holding back. There was no need to do so in front of you, but they were from the 377th, the stories spread around about you wouldn't be the same as living in an environment that you kept safe.

"Are all of you feeling up to going for a walk?" The three of them nodded, "Good, follow me."

Sparrow was a bit hesitant to let them out of the medbay, but after you explained where you were taking them he allowed you to lead them out.

There were several unspoken "territories" on the ship. The Natborn officers had their quarters, offices, and mess in a different section than the Vode, and (because you handpicked your officers) each group was respectful of the other's space and tended to avoid crossing into each other's territory unless necessary. As the general, you had permission to enter both, but you admittedly spent more time with the Vode. You enjoyed spending time with your officers, and many of them were pulled from your home planet's military which was nice, but the Vode were family.

You exchanged smiles and greetings with the 377th members you came across, but none of them stopped you to chat- seemingly picking up on the fact that you were on a mission.

Finally, you stopped in front of an unassuming door with the word Aay'han painted across it. Pressing the pad to open it, you stepped inside what used to be a storage room. There were several shelves spread around full of candles, and many more strategically placed on the floor to avoid taking up too much space. In the corner was two boxes full of candles as well.

"What is this, (Y/n)?" Sinker asked.

"There is a tradition on my planet," you opened the box and took out three candles, passing them out, "to light candles to bring certain things into your life. Blue candles represent healing, and white represents peace. We light candles for the men we lose, and we light them for ourselves too. Light a candle for your vode and for yourselves. Grieve, and take the first steps toward healing. When you're done you can find me in the cockpit."

"Vor'e, (Y/n)," Wolffe patted you on the shoulder twice before going to light his candle.

"Vor'e," Comet clutched his candle close to his chest like it was something precious, and went off as well.

"I didn't really think the rumors were true," Sinker admitted sheepishly, "About everything you've done for us. But I should have known they were if you were raised by General Koon."

"He is a good man," you smiled, sensing how much love the trooper in front of you held for your former master. You weren't the only one with close bonds to your men.

"He is. Vor'e, (Y/n)."

Leaving the three soldiers to handle themselves, you left and made your way to the cockpit to prepare for the impending defense of the medical station.

"You led them to the Aay'han room, didn't you?" Drifter asked knowingly, his impressive shields lowering just enough to present his unspoken thanks.

"I did. It seemed like they needed it."

"I'll have to tell Ponds and Cody to give him a call. The three of them are pretty close."

"Like you aren't?"

Drifter shrugged, "They know how to handle him better than I do. He's always been... different."

"Different how?"

"He was a biter."

"Ah," you responded like that answered everything, and it really did. Anakin went through a phase where instead of using his saber he would just try to bite Obi-Wan whenever there was an opening. That was a phase full of a lot of bandages, "How close are we to the station?"

"We'll be exiting hyperspace soon, General," Admiral Hashar - once a member of your planet's military and your parent's top pick - reported.

"Thank you, Admiral."

Minutes later, the tell-tale jerk of exiting hyperspace caused you to sway. It seems as though you were right behind Obi-Wan, who was quick to hail you and Anakin over the comms.

"Anakin, (Y/n), do you copy?"

"I'm here."

"Looks like we missed the party."

"Congratulations. It looks like your mission was a success."

"Partially. Grievous is still alive and the battle was pretty rough on my men. We're heading for the medical station."

"Did any men get hit by the weapon at all?" You asked.

"Three, Master," Ahsoka chimed in, "Shadows 6, 7, and 10."

"I want recovery ships sent out for them. If any of them were able to get life support online there's a chance they could be alive. Ink, take two other men and lead the rescue."

"Yes, Ser," Ink saluted and left the cockpit, speaking into his comm as he did so.

"You think there's a chance they're alive?" Anakin questioned, his voice skeptical but hopeful.

"I think if Master Plo and his men could survive there's a chance your men could've too. There's no machine trying to destroy their ships this time either. They'll be taken to the medical station to meet with you if they're alive. In the meantime, Obi-Wan and I will take over."

"We'll call if we need you, Anakin."

"I'll be waiting."

"Alright, let's finish what Anakin started. Ahead full."

"Copy that. You heard General Kenobi, it's time to take out the Malevolence once and for all."

With six flagships firing full force at the ship, there was little chance of the Malevolence getting away without falling apart in hyperspace. With luck, the ship would be destroyed without escaping to hyperspace.

"Get comfortable boys, this may take a while."

~*~

It had been half an hour. A kriffing half-hour of relentlessly pursuing the Malevolence and shooting at it with full power, and there was still minimal damage to the jybok ship. You'd been in constant contact with Obi-Wan, both through your soul bond and over the comms debating what to do. More reinforcements would be amazing but were unlikely to arrive quickly.

"It seems obvious at this point that they don't have a hyperdrive," you stated tiredly, ready to finish this battle, "I see no point in trying to hit the ship as a whole anymore. We should aim for the bridge."

"Agreed. Let's concentrate all our firepower on the bridge."

All fire from that point on was aimed at the bridge of the ship in hopes of taking out Grievous.

"General, the scanners are picking up a ship that just came out of hyperspace."

"Reinforcements?"

"No, it's much too small. The scanners are pinning it as Nabooian."

Brows furrowing in confusion, you hurried over to the scanner to look for yourself. Sure enough, they were reported a Noaboo ship had just exited hyperspace and was flying near the Malevolence, "Obi-Wan, are you seeing this too?"

"Yes, Ahsoka just reported it. She's attempting to report the ship now."

"Good, patch the transmission through to me as well if they answer. Gunners, stand down until we have more information!"

"Naboo cruiser! Identify yourself!"

"This is Senator Amidala."

"Padmé? What are you doing out here?"

"I was sent on a special mission. The Senate was told the Banking Clan wanted to negotiate a treaty."

"Get out of there as fast as you can!" The transmission buzzed, "Padmé what's happening?"

"I'm being pulled inside the droid cruiser by a tractor beam. I will not be made a Separatist bargaining chip. Continue your attack! You must destroy this monstrous ship!"

"... Admiral, order our ships to stop firing."

"For Force's sake, Anakin," you hissed, "I'm taking a ship and flying over to The Negotiator. Admiral Hashar and Commander Drifter hold duel command until I return or comm in."

"Understood, General," the pair said in unison. They worked well together, so you had full faith in them to act accordingly.

Running down to the hangar, you picked out an unused and unessential ship to fly over to the Negotiator, cursing Anakin under your breath as you did so. Some of your frustration must have been slipping through the familial bond because Anakin was projecting indignation while Obi-Wan was sending soothing waves.

We'll meet you in the hangar, Anakin finally moved past his mental pouting, We're going to rescue her

Of course, we are. Anakin, I need you to understand that if it comes time to choose between saving her and destroy the Malevolence, we must destroy the ship

I know, Master and Anakin was telling the truth, But I have to try

Then we'll do our best, Obi-Wan encouraged.

After being cleared for landing, you landed your ship right next to the Twilight, where Anakin and Obi-Wan were patiently - or not so patiently in Anakin's case - waiting for you to arrive.

"Took you long enough," Anakin grumbled, leading the way onto the ship.

"Speak to me like that again and your face will be much less appealing to Padmé," you threatened, not in the mood for any pettiness. It had been a ridiculously long day.

Obi-Wan placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder, and you released your emotions into the Force. You missed him dearly, and while this isn't the reunion you imagined or wanted, you'd take what you could get.

"I wished our reunion was happening under better circumstances," Obi-Wan said exactly what you were thinking.

"Me too, but I'll take what I can get. Hopefully after this we'll get some time on leave."

"One can only hope."

The two of you maintained a semblance of professionalism until you were safely on the Twilight, where Obi-Wan then wrapped an arm around your waist and pulled you close.

"l trust you've already formulated a brilliant plan to rescue the Senator?"

"As a matter of fact, l have."

"And is there a backup plan somewhere in there?"

"Not yet. I'll get there. But I do have a plan to get onto the enemy ship!"

Sighing tiredly, you took a seat and strapped in. Knowing Anakin this wasn't going to be a nice gentle flight, "What the plan, then?"

"The enemy's sensors are obviously damaged, so we'll sneak in behind them and dock at the emergency airlock."

"That's your plan? Just fly there, land, hope they don't spot us and walk in the door?"

"Basically."

Amusement flooded your soul bond with Obi-Wan, and both of you wondered which one of you was to blame for never curbing Anakin's tendency to create and then act on half-plans. Neither of you were ever going to surrender and accept the blame.

"Brilliant. Let's get going."

The Twilight left the hangar and took off. Because the Republic ships had halted their attack on the Malevolence, and the Malevolence was still too damaged to fight back, the flight wasn't nearly as terrible as it could have been, though that didn't stop Obi-Wan from complaining - a common theme when he flew with Anakin.

"If they spot us, we'll be pulverized."

"They're too busy repairing the ship. They don't have time to notice us."

"Subtlety has never been one of your strong points, Anakin."

"Everything I know I learned from you, Master. And (Y/n)."

The two looked at you, and you glared back, "Don't blame me for Anakin's lack of subtlety. I'm not the one who loves dramatic entrances- or taking their cloak off every chance they get!"

Anakin laughed loudly, gaining a Disappointed Obi-Wan Look in return, "(Y/n)'s got you there, Master. Even I don't lose my cloak that much."

"That's because you don't wear one."

Anakin shrugged, turning the ship on its side to lock onto the emergency airlock, "Can't lose what you don't have."

When the ship locked into place, the three of you stepped out of your seats and made your way to the exit. Despite being an emergency airlock, it still had an automatic platform that would take you up to the nearest floor. Points to the Separatist engineers for that one, it made your infiltration job a lot easier.

"Anakin, you're crazy. Spinning is not flying."

"But it's a good trick."

"We do not want to be spotted."

The doors opened. Two droids were on the other side, "I knew it! It's them." The three of you drew your lightsabers. "Oh no..."

"You stay here, Artoo."

The two droids were destroyed in seconds. Not wanting to be around when they were discovered, the three of you began running. You had to find Padmé quickly, or risk taking too long and getting caught in the impending battle.

After reaching the end of the hallway and taking a sharp right, Anakin's commlink began beeping, "Yes?"

"Master, we've found the Senator. I'm patching her through."

"Padmé!"

"Anakin!"

"Are you all right? Where are you?"

"On the lower levels. I'm fine, but I don't know for how long. Droids are everywhere."

"Obi-Wan, (Y/n), and I are on board too."

"What? What are you doing here?"

"We came to get you off this ship. Ahsoka, how can we get to the Senator?"

"According to our scans, there seems to be a large open area in the center of the ship. lt should be halfway between the two of you."

"We're on our way. Did you hear that, Padmé?"

"I'll be there."

Now that you had a concrete destination, it was much easier to figure out where on the ship you had to go. The open area Ahsoka mentioned seemed to be a central transport hub. Since the ship was so large there'd be a need for quick transportation around it.

Scanning the area below you, you saw no sign of Padmé. Just droids going about their normal duties.

"I don't see her, Anakin," Obi-Wan sighed after scanning the area as well.

"She's here, Master. I sense it."

Then, from below a commotion started. Padmé and Threepio were being shot at and pushed toward the transport carts. Without further ado, the three of you lit your sabers and jumped onto the closest train.

"Fire!"

Two blaster shots fired, and Anakin and Obi-Wan directed them back at the droids that fired them without issue. Anakin must have spotted Padmé on one of the trains because without warning he shouted her name and Force jumped away.

"I hate it when he does that," Obi-Wan sighed.

"It couldn't be more obvious that they're in love. Imagine how bad it would be if I didn't stop them from getting married," you added.

"Yes- wait, they were going to get married?"

Realizing you had never told Obi-Wan what Anakin was planning on doing after Geonosis, you winced, "I'll tell you later. Threepio fell onto another train going in the opposite direction. He holds sensitive information."

"Anakin rescues his love and we rescue a droid," Obi-Wan sighed, grabbing your free hand and jumping with you onto a train going in Threepio's direction.

Smiling, you nudged his arm, "You're already with your love, there's no need for a rescue there."

Obi-Wan's pale skin had never been good at hiding when he was blushing. You knew that it was one of the reasons he grew a beard - that and the fact that he always looked much younger than he was without it - what with Quin teasing him all the time. However, Obi-Wan would never be able to hide it when his ears were red. You took a strange satisfaction in that.

Catching sight of Threepio, the two of you raised your hands and began to lift him with the Force. The two of you were so focused you missed the new train coming. Threepio hit the front dead on, breaking your concentration and being carried away.

"Stop me! Please!"

"Blast! That's not good."

Nodding in agreement, you activated your comm. Padmé would want to be included which meant no mental speaking, "Anakin, we got separated from your droid."

"Threepio!" Padmé exclaimed.

"I'll take care of it. We'll meet you back at The Twilight."

"No! We can't leave yet. I overheard Grievous. Their hyperdrive is almost repaired."

"We're already headed in that direction. We'll make sure the hyperdrive stays offline if you get Threepio."

"Copy that."

"Do you think the hyperdrive control room is where it is on our starships?"

Obi-Wan smirked, "I don't see why the Separatists would be smart enough to change the standard design."

Allowing the train to take you as far as possible, the two of you jumped off when you were close to the hyperdrive control room and ran the rest of the way. There were only two droids inside the room, working on repairs no doubt.

The Force screamed a warning.

Two droidekas rolled out from each side, totaling four. Immediately behind them came four B2s and a legion of normal droid soldiers. From above came Grievous, who cackled victoriously and held up a blaster.

"Hello there," his modulated voice greeted mockingly. You withheld the urge to roll your eyes, "General Kenobi, General Pavond, did you really think I would leave the hyperdrive unguarded."

"Anything is possible. You haven't exactly impressed me today," Obi-Wan smirked and you let out a small laugh.

Grievous laughed again, unbothered, "Kill them."

"Together?" You asked, lighting your saber.

"Together." Obi-Wan agreed, doing the same.

In battles, it was never actual words that allowed you to fight so flawlessly together. The impressions of your next move flitted into each other's mind the exact moment you acted on them. At times, it was hard to tell who thought of doing what. Though that total synchronization always came in handy.

Leaping back behind the droidekas, each of you used the Force on one of them, sending them rolling down each aisle and knocking droids off the sides. Another quick burst of the Force and the droidekas themselves were thrown off as well.

The droids straight in front of you began blasting, and you ducked behind the final droidekas shield. When the blasts slowed just enough, the two of you used a large surge of the Force to send that one straight ahead. With Grievous and the droids thoroughly distracted, you wasted no time in running through the now open doorway on the left.

Another synchronized burst of thought and the two of you swung your lightsabers behind your backs, each of you blocking a blaster shot meant to take you down.

"Anakin," Obi-Wan called into the comm, "I'm afraid Grievous is onto us!"

"Yeah, we noticed."

"We'll rendezvous back at the Twilight. The fleet must engage the Malevolence," a short beep came from the comm, and there was no answer from Anakin, "They're jamming us."

"Anakin knows we need to meet at the Twilight. We need to trust that he'll meet us back there in time."

An opening leading to the tram system was up ahead. Without hesitation, the two of you leaped off the edge and onto the farthest train. Just behind you was Grievous and a small squad of droids. The droids missed the jump, Grievous, sadly, didn't.

Pointing up at a crane just ahead, you said, "Face him from the front. I'll come up from behind."

Nodding, Obi-Wan jumped up and swung on the crane, gaining enough momentum to land in front of Grievous. While your husband was keeping him distracted, you climbed and jumped over the crates between the three of you. When you were just behind Grievous and standing on a pile of crates, you lit your saber and jumped.

One of Grievous' arms twisted and met your strike. Undeterred, you pushed on. Together, you and Obi-Wan were able to put Grievous on the defense- though you were unsure how long that would last.

Another train is coming, you sent through the bond. Trusting the Force to tell you what to do, you kept your eye on the train below, Jump now!

The two of you jumped, slicing the car Grievous was on in half to prevent him from following. Landing safely on the new train, you were thankful to note that it was going in the right direction.

"This has been the longest day of my life," you sighed.

"Now, I'm sure that isn't true. There was that mission on Balmera with the crystal caves and the earthquakes?"

Wincing, you remembered gaining a concussion and spending hours trying to dig yourselves out of a cave in, "That was terrible as well. I would make a list if it wouldn't bring up so many bad memories."

"I think Anakin has made something of that caliber in the past."

"Of course he has."

The train was approaching your stop. Bending your knees, the two of you kept your eye on your desired doorway. When the train got close enough you leaped up, using your momentum to sprint through the door and continue on.

"Droidekas ahead," you warned, spotting a group of the menaces.

"We don't have time to face them."

"Fancy flips it is then."

The droidekas lit their shields and their guns when they noticed you, but were unprepared for your Ataru jumps over them. They were quick to follow, but by that point, the two of you already had the advantage. Keeping your sabers lit to block any blaster shots, you sharply turned into the hallway leading to the airlock where the Twilight was waiting.

"Hold the ship!" Obi-Wan shouted when the others came into view.

With a bit of assistance from the Force to move faster, the two of you squeezed through the door to the airlock. It closed behind you. You were safe. Taking the lift to the Twilight, you got on and strapped in.

"I'll contact the fleet."

"Artoo, release the docking clamp."

The Twilight took off for the Republic fleet. So close to freedom, safety, and rest, the sensors blared a warning.

"Incoming fighters," you called out.

The ship shook from the force of blasts that were too close for comfort.

"Time for some clever tricks, Anakin," Obi-Wan sighed, not looking forward to it but realizing it was the only way.

Anakin grinned. He'd likely been waiting for this, "That's what I was thinking."

With confirmation that the four of you were off the Malevolence, the Republic ships began firing upon Grievous' ship. Despite being in the crossfire, you were relieved that the mission could now continue.

"You know, we have guns. You can shoot back anytime," Anakin sniped.

"I was just about to-"

"I got it," Padmé rolled her eyes, rushing to take over weapons. Sometimes you forgot that not only was she a queen who fought to free her people when she was 14, but she was surrounded by an elite group of trained spies and bodyguards the entire time she led. There was no way she didn't pick up a thing or two.

"She seems to know her way around," Obi-Wan commented, earning a glare from Anakin that only drew attention to his red face.

On the sensor, one of the enemy ships bliped out, "Good job Padmé!"

"Beginner's luck."

"Don't be so modest, you're too good with a blaster for it to be beginner's luck."

Threepio cut in, "Pardon me, sir, but Artoo's scan of the enemy's ship indicates their hyperdrive is activating."

"Don't worry about it," Anakin dismissed.

"What?"

"Anakin you didn't reprogram the enemy hyperdrive again did you?" From the corner of the Twilight's window, you spotted a giant explosion, "Every time you have access to their systems you do something like this, I swear to the Force."

"All part of the plan, Master," Anakin chirped, all smiles with no sense of shame. Not that you could blame him. He'd just taken out the weapon that'd been plaguing the Republic for months.

The ride back to The Resolute after that was smooth, and for that you were thankful. Ahsoka and Master Plo were awaiting your arrival in the hangar, and you didn't hesitate to pull each of them into a hug when you walked off.

"Oh, thanks Master (Y/n)," Ahsoka stiffened in shock for a few moments before melting into the affection. Being raised in the Jedi Temple always affected one's reaction to touch, but you'd been bestowing such things upon Ahsoka for years. Her hesitation to accept it was all but gone.

"A job well done, my former Padawan," Master Plo ran his claws through your hair and you sighed. You'd missed that sort of familial touch. You rarely got to see your former master because of the war, much less have such moments with him, "You have done very well today, and I am very proud."

"Thank you, Master. Your men are still on my ship, would you like to come back with me to see them?"

"I would love nothing more." Master Plo's Force signature was full of such paternal love that the others paused their conversations for a moment before continuing on. If anyone were to openly admit they loved their men it would be your master, "I was hoping you would be able to translate something for me, (Y/n)."

"Of course, Master! That's kind of my thing," you smiled, eager to help.

"The men, before what happened to our ship, began to call me General Boo-er? They've never said it to me directly, but one does overhear things."

Biting back a grin, you heard Obi-Wan cough behind you. He too knew exactly what the men were calling Master Plo, "I believe they were calling you General Buir. It means parent."

Master Plo's face shifted in a way you recognized as surprised, "Oh, I see. That, I suppose, makes sense."

His Force presence became muted then, in the tell-tale way that meant someone was shielding heavily. You were confused as to why for only a moment. His men considered him to be their father and now the majority of them were gone.

"There's another mando'a saying, nu kyr'adyc, shi taab'echaaj'la. It means 'not gone, merely marching away'. They loved you and you loved them. Three of them live, and they still consider you a father. You will be assigned new troops, and I know you will love them too."

"Thank you, (Y/n). Your wisdom has only grown during your time as a Master."

"War tends to have that effect on people, Master."

"It is not the war, my Padawan. It is just you growing to be a wonderful Jedi."

Unprepared for the sudden sentiment, you swallowed against the sudden tightness in your throat and blinked to chase away the heat in your eyes. Your master, knowing that the last thing you wanted was to cry in front of Anakin's men, turned to Obi-Wan.

"Master Kenobi, unless your men need you back immediately I believe the three of us can give our report to the Council together on The Gray."

"But don't I need to give a report t- oof!" Anakin grunted when Padmé elbowed him in the ribs. Sending her an offended look, she raised an unimpressed brow.

"All of them need to travel anyway, you're already on your ship with your Padawan. We can stay here, and they can go."

"Oh. Oh! Yes, of course, I can give my report here. I'll go do it now to get it over with, actually. Come on, Snips."

Sending Padmé master a confused look, Ahsoka sent your group one last wave and followed after him. Padmé turned to you and Obi-Wan with a smile.

"Thank you for the rescues, Masters."

"It was our pleasure, Senator Amidala," Obi-wan replied with a formal bow, though he was poking fun at Anakin through the familial bond.

"May the Force be with you while you travel back to Coruscant," you responded.

"Thank you, Master, based on my track record I may need it."

Exchanging final goodbyes with Padmé, you led Master Plo and Obi-Wan to the ship you flew over. Unlike Anakin, you were just fine with taking more time to get to your destination in favor of it being a calm flight.

When you commed The Gray on the way there, Drifter assured you that he'd be there to greet you and he'd bring the remaining members of Master Plo's unit with him as well. Your master must have sensed them as you entered the hangar because he perked up and brightened.

"Drifter, things went well here, I hope?" You asked, giving your master time to reunite with his men. They still looked a bit worse for wear but didn't carry the same aura of grief and guilt as before.

"As well as can be expected. We're happy to see that you're back safe," Drifter glanced over at Obi-Wan, "Things are handled well here, General. If you'd like to report to the Council and go rest everything will be fine."

"Thank you, Drifter. Master, would you like to go report to the Council?"

"Yes. I will find you after," Master Plo promised his men.

"I can't believe they've already claimed him as their father," Obi-Wan whispered to you as you started walking, with your master a bit behind you.

"It'd be hard not to, Master Plo has a hard time not adopting every child he comes across," you chuckled, "I know without a doubt he's claimed them as his children."

"You are correct in that assumption, (Y/n)," Master Plo stepped up next to you, "I would like to learn a few things in mando'a if you would be amenable?"

"Obi-Wan and I would love to teach you! What would you like to know?"

Your master exuded an air of confidence with an undercurrent of keep secret, meaning what he wanted to be taught could affect his standing in the Order if it was discovered.

"My men are my children, and I would wish for them to know so."

That was unsurprising. Obi-Wan spoke up first, "Well, there's ad'ika, which is a term of endearment from parents to their children. Ad is a singular child and ade is children. Simply calling them that would make their intentions clear."

Your master hummed, and you felt the need to add, "There are the Mandalorian adoption vows too. Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ad, it means 'I know your name as my child', and normally you'd say their name after. It's something you'd want to talk to them about before doing, but it's more... official than simply calling them your children."

"Can you say the vow again?"

"Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ad."

"Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ad," your master repeated, his pronunciation impeccable, "Thank you, I believe this will be most helpful. Now, let's all be proper Jedi as we speak to the Council."

That drew a small laugh from you. The three of you were far from perfect Jedi in the eyes of the Council, though the Force itself seemed to have no objections.

~*~

"Do you consider Master Plo to be your father?" Obi-Wan asked suddenly, later that night while the two of you were lying in your much-too-small-for-two-adults bunk, "I realize you know and love your birth father, but you said that it would be hard not to be adopted by him earlier."

"In a way, yes. He raised me, taught me, helped me become who I am. When I became his Padawan, he even had the environmental settings on his apartment adjusted. I can handle the gases he lives in well, but he still contained the majority of it in his personal room. Any other master would have allowed my body to adapt to it, but he never wanted to risk putting me in pain. When I was first learning to balance the Light and Dark Side, he was always there when I slipped to keep me anchored in the Light... he isn't my father, but I can think of no other way to describe him."

Obi-Wan's arms tightened around your waist, "I thought of Qui-Gon as my father. I don't think he saw me as his son, I don't think he was able to after what happened to Xanatos."

"You know how I feel about your apprenticeship with him," Obi-Wan nodded, and you felt it in your hair, "But despite all his misgivings, I have no doubt that he loved you. You shouldn't have been responsible for fixing him, but you were and you did it because you showed him how to love again. You might not have been his son, Obi-Wan, but you were his."

Sniffles. Carefully rolling to your other side so you didn't fall off the bunk, - really, you'd have to figure out a way to make it bigger - you gently brushed the tears off Obi-Wan's cheeks.

"He was ready to repudiate me to train Anakin."

"I know, neod."

"He still loved me?"

"He did. Qui-Gon Jinn was never willing to admit he was wrong, and he was one stubborn bantha. That led to a lot of hurt on your end, but he loved you too much to ever do it on purpose."

Brushing a stray hair from Obi-Wan's face, you pressed a gentle kiss to his temple. Obi-Wan let out a quiet laugh, "I'm sorry, beloved. I'm aware both of us had other plans for how tonight would go and I seem to have ruined it."

"I missed you, Obi-Wan. Simply being near you is enough," you assured. Sex could wait. It was never a defining factor in your relationship in the first place even if it was commonplace. Love, support, and understanding were much more important, "You are enough."

Obi-Wan opened his side of the bond completely. Overpowering the lingering hints of pain and sorrow was a nearly overwhelming wave of love and appreciation. In return, you opened your side of the bond to share your feelings as well.

For a Jedi, feeling such strong emotions from someone could be overwhelming. Speaking to people with no concept of shielding could be draining. But it was never like that within the soul bond. Every emotion felt like a gentle caress, like soft kisses and mornings spent in bed together. Your love wasn't all-consuming, but it was strong and true.

Surrounded by love and warmth, the two of you drifted off clinging to each other tightly.

War was terrible. The death, sorrow, and suffering were overwhelming and often fed into the dark whispers constantly flitting around your mind. But with your husband next to you, with your family surrounding you, the whispers fell quiet, and you felt at peace.