Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Now Luke really did try to do his best. He really did, he had to. He had been thinking about it for sometime...

that sometime being the few minutes they have been sitting here. Wherever here was that is. The point being though, that none of this was his fault. If anything, he figured, it had to be Leia's because of...reasons.

Ok so maybe this was mostly his fault he thought. Hindsight, clear as always, showed it may not have been his brightest idea to go to  a thousand year-untouched-old temple.

In his defense he was just trying to find more research on the Jedi and their practices. Most of it was wiped out by the war, and since hearing of this temple...

Really though how could he not go and find it. Especially since he now decided to teach younger force sensitives, two of which were his nephew and step-son. Well they were technically the only two so far, but they still count, he was teaching them. It was his school.

Though he technically wasn't teaching them at the moment since they were in this situation that was totally not his fault.

HOw was he supposed to know not to touch old books because, oh wait that one might be cursed and fling them into a kriffing closet on a mysterious ship. He really didn't like this closet, or any, though especially this one as Leia was still glaring at him from the other side and proceeding to lecture him.

"I mean seriously Luke, We don't even know where we are!" Leia was yelling at him furious. She really was intimating. 

"What even was that! Why would you touch it?" She continued while pacing. That was not a good sign. Luke held up his hands up to his scary sister innocently. 

"Obviously I didn't know! It was a book, it looked, smelled, and tasted like a book. You touch them and read them. Your supposed to be able to touch them, right Din?" He asked panicky towards his husband, who was off to the side just watching this interaction. 

Din opened his mouth to try and find a response to whatever was going on before Leia shushed him, not giving him a chance to help Luke.

"Well you shouldn't touch mysterious old ones, right Han?" She said to her own husband who was off to the side as well.

Oh, now Luke saw how this was going. She was trying to recruit Han to her side. That wasn't fair, he thought, ignoring the fact he literally just did the same exact thing. 

"Well still-" Luke started before Leia shushed him again. This was censorship.

"Luke karking Skywalker I swear to every all powerful force I'm going to strangle you." She said in a straight face, which made Luke feel more uneased than her yelling. She went forwards and grabbed the front of his shirt. Touchy. He could hear both Din and Han wince, making no move to interrupt her though. Traitors.

However before she could do anymore scolding the door to their little shared closet opened up to reveal two people wearing matching armor. Uh oh.

After a couple of seconds of the two groups just looking at each other, shocked into a stupor, Luke managed out a small, "Hi!"

It probably was a strange sight, that was, four people in a too small closet, two of which screaming at each other, the other two used to the chaos.

Leia however, always the quickest to react, dropped the collar of Luke's shirt and with a well practiced ease, pulled out her blaster and aimed at them in matter of a second.

Oh yeah, mysterious ship and men in eerily similar armor to storm troopers=more than likely people that want them dead.

Similarly to Leia the rest of them brought out their weapons, including the two faux troopers, and they aimed at each other. Din was staring at them. He tapped on Luke shoulder. 

"This ship isn't imperial" Din said while looking at them in confusion. "That is clone armor, straight from the clone wars, somethings wrong." 
Luke just froze at those words. Huh? "Umm no that's not possible. The clones were basically fazed out 20 years ago. Rex told me himself, are you ok?" Luke turned off his lightsaber going over to examine his husband's head.

Leia then looked between Din and the 'clones' she seemed to be calculating something. "I think Din is right, that is clone armor, this ship must be hijacked." 

Oh well this is great, Luke thought. Though they did appear to be right. Books are weird, especially old ones from old temples.

Meanwhile the 'clones' were just standing there in bafflement, until the one took off his helmet as if to get a better look at the group. He squinted at them, before looking towards the other one. Luke now saw the man's face. He was a clone, exactly like how Rex would have looked if he was younger. 

"Should I get the Generals Commander Cody?" The helmetless clone said while sighing.
"Yeah," Commander Cody said, looking awfully tired as he pinched the bridge of his nose, "Get the Generals."

They were just walking through the halls.

Nothing out of the ordinary either, but of course with luck, it didn't stay that way for long.

Commander Cody was walking with and talking to Clone Trooper Fives of the 501st when the...incident happened. Incident did seem to be a good word for what happened.

"Luke karking Skywalker I swear to every all powerful force I'm going to strangle you!"

A woman's voice could be heard screaming from just around the corner.

The first shocking thing from that jarring statement was the fact that came from the area of the ship that only had one single, and from what he knew, small storage closet.

Secondly she screamed the name Skywalker. He looked over towards Fives who was also facing him. He shrugged before motioning to stay quiet as they went closer to the closet.

They heard a few more jumbled statements till Cody decided to open the door only to be faced with four people somehow crammed into that space.

The only woman, who can be inferred to be the one that alerted the two of their presence, was holding onto the collar of one of the men. The other two men were just looking at the arguing two fighting, seemingly unconcerned as if this was a normal occurrence until they noticed the open door. One of them also wearing Mandalorian armour.

Not good.

The woman, with insanely fast reflexes, whipped out a blaster and had it pointed at them before they could entirely process the situation.

It rivaled the reflexes of even the Jedi he worked with daily. In response Fives and Cody each got out their blasters as well, only to be parried with two more blasters, and a ...

lightsaber. Of course one would have a lightsaber. It couldn't have been normal stowaways either because that would be too easy to deal with apparently.

Either it was a rogue Jedi or one who was able to steal a lightsaber from one, frankly neither were ideal. Never-minding the fact he shared the name of one of the more famous Jedi Knights. 

After the confused conversation was insinuated and the one, Luke Skywalker, said something about all the clones being fazed out, all doubt of this not being a normalish situation was eradicated.  Cody was very sure all the clones had not been 'fazed out'. 

They were also very shocked of the idea of clones, which really shouldn't be that shocking, due to the giant Clone War going on at the moment.

Of course with all of this included one of their names were Skywalker. That was especially weird. Having the name Skywalker though, didn't instantly mean the General was apart of this. Right?

Cody pinched the bridge of his nose, as Fives asked if he should get the Generals. Cody sighed. Maybe he should have just stayed on the other ship with the rest of the 212th instead of joining General Kenobi on the ship with the 501st.

The group in the closet looked mostly confused as Cody felt as Cody just replied an affirmation to Fives to get the Generals.

"As we wait, would you four mind telling me who you are and how you got here?" Cody said towards the wide-eyed group, as Fives left his peripheral.

The Group looked nervously around at each other.

"That might be a little complicated."

Chapter Text

Anakin was having a bad day.

Scratch that. Bad week.

It all started with the crisis on Naboo involving the Blue shadow virus. Anakin still sometimes couldn’t believe how close he came to losing Padmé and Ahsoka, along with Rex and the other clones...

Anyways that was just the start.

Right when Ahsoka was cleared in health, they got sent to survey remaining bases which was mostly just boring.

Though on the bright side they were on the way back to Coruscant, and they would finally get a break.

Or that was the plan until this happened.

He, Ahsoka, and Rex were each in the lounge room hanging out when suddenly an intense wave from the force hit Anakin like a speeder.

It was so overwhelming he was almost positive he could taste his thoughts. He heard Ahsoka wince from nearby him so it was affecting her as well.

Rex became alert and looked over in concern at the two probably wondering the in the siths hell was going on.

It took a good minute before the pain started to subside. Anakin still had a loud ringing in his ears.

“What the Kriff was that.” He ground out with his eyes still scrunched shut and his head in his hands.

Ahsoka was blinking wearily, but still cracked a smile.

“Language Skyguy, we have a 10 year old present, we can’t corrupt the children.”

This did cause Rex to ease up since he could see it wasn’t anything life-threatening, before throwing a mock glare at Ahsoka.

“Yeah well, I’m mature for my age.” He managed to joke back.

Ahsoka seemed to have recovered faster than Anakin. He still had a slight headache, but he could focus more, he could feel the small concern from Ahsoka as she looked over at him, but something else was catching his attention more.

The original powerful wave that hit them didn’t have so much of an origin when he first felt it due to the sheer overwhelming nature of it, but as the seconds ticked by he could feel that it now originated...on the ship.

Specifically the other-side.

“Do you feel that Snips?” He asked to her.

He didn’t need to necessarily elaborate what exactly he meant, as she seemed to understand as she looked on in the direction of the origin.

“Yeah I think I do. What do you think it was?”

Anakin just shrugged. He honestly didn’t have a clue. The only other force-sensitive presence was Obi-Wan, but Anakin was almost sure it wasn’t him. This was different. Almost like time and space itself was ripped open and abruptly closed.

Almost as if the force was reading his mind, his comm began to beep. It was Obi-Wan.

As Anakin answered the call he could tell immediately that Obi-Wan had been worried. He seemed to be walking around the ship as he called them.

However, now that he could tell they were fine his face eased into his usual features.

"Well at least it doesn't appear to be either of you to have caused the jumbled crease in the force, I am honestly shocked.” He said slightly teasing.

Anakin went with it as he put on a show, smacking his hand against his chest as if shot.

"You wound me Obi-Wan, I can't believe you would ever think I would be involved in anything less than the responsible, Jedi standard."

"Wounded indeed" Ahsoka said along with him.

”How dare you General.” Rex added on with them.

Obi-Wan rolled his eyes at the three.

“You are in the lounge, correct?” They each nodded along.

“I’ll be there in a moment.” He then hung up the call.

Then only after a minute Obi-Wan made his way into the room.

“I’m assuming you each felt the origin as well then?” He said looking around.

“Yeah, it is much less intense though, it just feels like a large presence of something now.” Ahsoka said.

“Well we should check it out.” Anakin said to all of them getting up. Ahsoka and Rex each got up with him and the three made their way towards the door.

”Shouldn’t we get back up in case this goes side-ways?” Obi-Wan asked as if it was obvious .

Anakin just shrugged it off and continued going.

“Always on the move,” Obi-Wan sighed going to follow the group.

Though, as the Jedi and Rex were about to go investigate, they were met with Fives barging through the door.

He took a moment to catch his breath before talking.

"There is an emergency at the end of the east wing" he paused and took another breath,

"Strange passengers are aboard the ship," Another breath.

"Commander Cody is there now, but we should hurry." he finished saying still gasping.

"Sheesh Fives, did you sprint the whole way here." Ahsoka teased him. She always did joke when she was nervous, Anakin could tell even if she tried to hide it.

Fives looked up at her from where he was still bent over resting his hands on his knees, and shot her an annoyed glance.

She stuck her tongue out at him before Obi-Wan put his hands up to interrupt the banter.

"Strange people coming from nowhere can’t be a coincidence." Obi-Wan started saying before he made a confused face towards Fives.

"I thought there was only a storage closet in the East wing?”

"Yeah, they were in the closet."

"As we wait, would you four mind telling me who you are and how you got here?" the remaining clone, Commander Cody, asked the group.

Luke wasn't really sure how they should go about answering that. They didn't even know how they got here.

He guessed they did know who they are. It would be confusing to say the least.

Honestly his first instinct was to just say ‘no’ and they all leave, but they probably shouldn’t do that.

"That might be a little complicated," he decided to settle on saying.

"Well good thing I can deal with complicated" Commander Cody decided to say only raising his eyebrows slightly at the group.

Luke just smiled at him because this was getting awkward and he really had no idea what to do.

Leia however had a pensive look on her face.

"You mentioned fetching your generals, who are they, what army is this." she asked them.

Well, they were clones, they wore clone armor. If Luke had to guess he would say this was some lookalike clone army. Or another... he really had no idea how to think about it.

"Well I suppose I could introduce myself, CC-2224, Commander Cody, of the 212th Battalion, of the Grand Army of the Republic, at your service." he said.

"The Grand army of the Republic? As in similar to the ones that served during the Clone Wars like 30 years ago?" Din asked from next to him.

Luke knew that Din would know a lot about this stuff since he was friends with Boba Fett, Luke still wasn't sure about him after the whole...thing and the bounty as his father hired him, etc.

But at least that comes in handy now. Sure Luke also knows a lot because of Rex too, but Rex mostly focused on his brothers in the stories, and the fact he knew his father, he also didn't even see Rex that often-

Wait.

Now that he was thinking about it, he could have sworn Rex mentioned a Cody before, and the man standing in front of them was a Commander Cody. Who talked like they were in the Clone Wars.

Even Cody was just standing there wondering what the fuck were they talking about.

Before anybody could say anything more though, the other Clone had returned with four other people coming from behind him.

It was another clone, two men and a Togruta girl. He could feel an energy coming from them. They seemed familiar somehow.

Holy shit. wait. The one in the blue armor looks exactly like Rex. The other three were Jedi. Luke squinted at them and sure enough they were in fact lightsabers in their belts

"So this was the disturbance?" the man with the tacky, jagged scar over his face asked towards Cody.

"Yes sir."

The girl looked confused.

"Are you sure. The one in the front is pretty short to be intimidating enough to cause a defibrillating disturbance." she joked.

At least Luke hoped she was joking. What was with him and people being rude to him today. He was short, he gets it, Din makes a point of resting his arms over his head all the time, its not like he didn't know he was short-

”I am very intimidating, thank you.” He said towards her impulsively. He saw Din and Leia give him a look at that. Han just laughed at him.

”I think I may be taller than you and I am a fifteen year old girl.” She said cockily. Even if she was right which she wasn’t, or so Luke told himself, it didn’t matter.

”Be nice Snips.” Scar man said to her, but he said it in a way where one could tell he wasn’t serious. She just smirked at Luke, before turning towards Cody.

"So you already introduced yourself to them?"

"Yeah, well partially, you all didn't miss much."

"We should be asking who they are, they are the ones that made the force contort and are on our ship with out permission and identification." Scar man said.

"Maybe you all should let us know where we are." that was Han, he better not make them get in a fight Luke thought sourly, also ignoring the fact he was just arguing with a fifteen year old over heights.

If they did get in a serious fight anyways, he was almost positive they would be outnumbered quickly, and they really did not need that right now.

"No Han, I think we can work with introducing ourselves first." Leia was always very diplomatic...oh she was looking towards him.

"Right" he said upbeat trying to diffuse the tension.

"Yeah so, I'm Jedi Master Skywalker, and this is my husband Din Djarin, and this lovely she-demon is my sister Leia, and the oaf is her husband.” Leia quickly turned and elbowed him in the side.

“Sheesh, Leia it was a joke, just trying to diffuse the tension,” he turned towards Cody and whispered, “See, she-demon.” Leia just shoved him again and he could see actual pain on Cody’s face. Poor guy.

As he finished that statement he was rubbing his side where Leia had elbowed him. However, when he heard a clang hit the ground he looked up to see that one of the clones had dropped their helmet. Oh, so maybe the face made wasn’t because of that.

Then the togruta girl, he thinks she was called Snips, started laughing as the others all looked like they had short circuited.

"What?"

That seemed to come from every single one of them, varying in degree and tone.

Luke was a little shocked that they seemed to never of heard of him. Not that he had a big ego or anything. He did destory the death star. He was involved in the destruction of each, as well as the fall of Palpatine. He figured that a supposed army would know him thats all.

Luke could count a good few, awkward, silence filled seconds later until one of them were finally knocked out of the trance they seemed to be in.

“Your a Skywalker?” It was Scar man talking again. He was easily the one that seemed the most confused. He was stark white too. It was almost funny.

“Yeah. Why?” It was curious on why he was focusing solely on his last name as well.

“I’m a Skywalker. Anakin Skywalker actually, its just weird is all.” Anakin replied.

No. No not ‘is all’.

Now it was Luke, Din, Han, and Leia’s turn to be shocked. He could see the realization on each of their faces, though Leia’s was mostly turning into a glare directed at Anakin as she realized the situation that damn book got them in.

Luke wasn’t exactly inclined to believe that, that was his father and they more than likely time-traveled, life was already so god damn weird.

Yet now that he looked closer he did look like the only glimpse he ever saw of his father out of the mask and healthy...

Also with Commander Cody talking like they were in the actual Clone Wars everything just seemed to click.

Yeah. Luke was never going to touch a book again.

Chapter Text

He was a Skywalker. Just like him. He also called himself a Jedi Master . Not to mention this so called Jedi was married . And married to a mandolorian no less. Anakin couldn’t recall any Jedi Masters that went by the name of Skywalker.

Anakin knew he could be dense at times, but he would like to think he would know that much.

They were all just staring at each other, raddled with confusion, well Leia was glaring at him for some reason which honestly just was scary.

The other Skywalker just turned back to his group.

“So we all agree we are in the past right? I’m not the only one who came to that conclusion.” He said as if it was obvious.

Which if Anakin had anything to say, no it was not.

In the past? Was he sure that was what he said. Ahsoka looked too over joyed at this.

“So you all are saying your in the past for you, like our present is your past and your our future?” She breathed out.

He saw Luke hesitantly nod at her, which just made her more excited. Why was she so giddy about it. It was just four random people...

One with the name Skywalker...

Who seemed to know him...

And had similar features to him...

Oh no...

Ok. So now he understood why Ahsoka looked like that. She was definitely going to rub this in his face for the foreseeable future.

The pieces were now starting to click for Anakin as well as the rest of them.

”So, just to be clear,” Obi-Wan said while clearing his throat.

”You all are claiming to have time-traveled, which debatably, isn’t possible.” He said deadpan. 

“Well...yeah that is about right. You can blame Luke for that.” Leia said to the group while pointing towards a scandalized Luke.

”No, don’t say that. You see, it wasn’t my fault, it started with this book-“ Luke cut in, in a rush to defend himself from embarrassment.

“Your Skyguy’s son.” Ahsoka interrupted, wanting to get back to that topic, which Anakin definitely appreciated. She also phrased it as a fact more than a question.

Luke just looked at them with something Anakin couldn’t seem to place.

The one named Han just laughed slightly, unconcerned with everything going on.

“Your nickname is Skyguy. I wish I knew that back when we faced-“ he started saying before Leia elbowed him in the side. She seemed quite good at that...

This whole situation was just a lot for him to wrap his head around. He knew they often got in tough situations, but this was just plain strange.

Anakin wanted to pass out.

This definitely made total sense, he thought sarcastically.

Obi-Wan, well the man had to be Ben, still just looked confused before he gave a pointed look towards his father. His father saw him staring at him and pointed at his chest.

“Me? You think i’m involved with this.”Obi-Wan just pursed his lips.

“You expect me to think your not?” He said plainly. Ahsoka just looked between the two before rolling her eyes.

”How would I have been involved in the making of this.” Anakin asked while crossing his arms across his chest defensively.

“I still can’t believe your son time-traveled because of a book, that’s pretty cool.” Ahsoka said awe-struck. 

“Actually it isn’t pretty cool. I felt like throwing up.” Luke remarked.

”Yeah that pretty much sums up the experience.” Han said nodding along with his brother-in-law.

”I have a son that time-traveled.” Anakin said, mostly to himself.

There was so much confusion in his voice Luke almost didn’t hear the wonder in it as well.

He looked almost happy at the idea of having them as a family which was kind of hard for Luke to wrap his head around.

Not the idea of them being a family, but rather the situation they were actively in.

Now don’t get him wrong, it was nice seeing his father, especially when his father was not actively trying to murder him and/or his friends. Or even just murdering in general because he did a lot of that.

But he would rather not be in this situation at all. That damn book.

Taking himself out of his thoughts he just nodded and shrugged at the two confirming their thoughts.

He saw his father nod, still very much in a daze, as he then looked over curiously at Leia.

Not good not good not good, Luke thought in a panic  Luke was already wincing before any words could be said, and Han and Din both audibly winced with him.

“So if you both are siblings that makes you-“

“Not your daughter.” Leia had interrupted him.

She was glaring more furiously than Luke had ever seen her and trust him that was a lot . It was even worse than the looks she used to give Han.

Granted she had every reason to have that reaction because of well... everything .

But they really didn’t have the time to unpack all of that.

Well they did, but Luke really didn’t think anybody would want to at the moment.

“Ok this is fun. Very fun, but well...” he trailed off. He really didn’t know what to do at the moment. He looked over at Din in question, but he just shrugged at him. Very helpful thanks .

“Who’s your mother?” Ahsoka said with her eyes lit up. Luke was slightly taken aback at the topic change, and his father, who had still had a taken aback look at Leia’s statement a few seconds ago, blanched at that.

“Yes Anakin, who would their mother be?” Obi-Wan asked calmly in a tone that almost seemed like he already knew the answer.

Luke actually only recently had his mother’s identity confirmed because Rex knew, his Aunt and Uncle mentioned how they thought it was they woman they saw once, named Padmé, but they could never be sure. This Rex also was looking over curious so he evidently didn’t know yet.

“Umm, Padmé Amidala.” He said in response to the group. Luke wasn’t sure why Anakin wouldn’t answer unless they weren’t together yet maybe.

Anakin bit his lip in anxiety and shut his eyes.

He heard a thump and Ahsoka shot her fist into the air.

“I karking knew it! Pay up Rex, you too Cody.” Ahsoka bursted out, holding her hands out expectantly to Rex first, Cody studiously took a couple steps away. Rex turned sour at that.

“Ok. First of all, that does not mean they are in a relationship as of now.” He started saying. Ahsoka looked at him unimpressed with his defense and turned to Anakin expectantly. He turned red at that. It was weird to see Darth Vader himself embarrassed.

“Uh so maybe wemightbemarried.” He said that with his words jumbling slightly at the end.

”You all placed a bet. On my life?” Anakin added on, probably trying to change the focus on things. Ahsoka just waved him off as Rex was reaching into his pockets, presumably to grab the fair.

Obi-Wan suddenly looked up.

“Wait your married . I knew there was obviously something going on, but marriage? I always figured your abandonment issues would stop you from going that far.” He said, honestly confused . 

Anakin looked offended at that and now Luke was lost again.

“I do not- I-“ he stuttered out.

Obi-Wan just looked at him not impressed.

”Oh, no sense in denying it Anakin.” He brushed him off.

Ahsoka just nodded with Obi-Wan. 

“Not going to lie, I also knew you would break the code one way or another.” Ahsoka said seriously.

Ok, so Rex never mentioned that, granted they very rarely saw each other, but still a rule? Against marriage?

“Wait, there’s a rule?” Luke asked confused.

The three Jedi and the clones looked at him like he was stupid.

“Well yeah, the code , and how did you get out of that? You are married, did they change the code?” Anakin asked in wonder and slight hopefulness. Now Luke didn’t want to crush his spirit, but why not break it now.

“Well. Technically this guy Vader-“ he started saying.

“No. Luke no.” Leia said shaking her head.

“Come on, we talked about your filter, you can’t tell them like that.” She continued while shaking her head.

“I wasn’t going to be direct per se.” he said trying to defend himself, but stopped at Din just subtlety shaking his head.

“Ok fine.” He said disappointed.

Han looked at them each.

“I’ll say it.” He gladly put in, but Leia put her hand over his mouth before he got the chance.

“Come on, are me and Din the only ones with a brain, what if we affect the time-line too much.” She said frustrated.

Luke saw her point. He really did, but he couldn’t help but feel there had to be a point to the time-travel as well. Maybe they were here specifically to change the past.

He would very much be ok with killing Palpatine this time.

“Wait, go back, what did that mean?” Ahsoka asked.

“Uh. Nothing.” Luke shook his head, not wanting to get into another argument with his sister.

“No it definitely meant something.” She persisted.

”And out of curiosity, why aren’t you my daughter, if you’re siblings?” Anakin added on, obviously not getting the cue.

“Where is this ship going anyways?” Din cut in saving his ass. He loved that man so much. He looked at him gratefully.

“Coruscant.” Cody said towards him, he looked relieved at the change in conversation, due to the fact Luke could see a vein coming out of his head. Again poor Cody.

“That actually reminds me, we need to tell the council of these events.” Ben said towards the others.

Luke perked up at that.

”The Jedi Council?” He said excited. He could get to meet other Jedi.

“I’m going to be in deep Tooka shit aren’t I? They already hate me enough” Anakin groaned.

“Such a debby downer.” Ahsoka tisked at him and then patted his back.

“Besides nobody said anything about telling them now .” She said shaking her head. Her eyes then hardened.

“And nobody better. I want to see Master Windu shit his pants at two Skywalkers in person.” She said pointing at everyone.

Anakin nodded at her, his lips quirking probably at the thought of that. Luke didn’t know who Master Windu was, and was very curious now why he would ‘shit his pants’.

Luke decided to ignore that for now though.

”Well there is no point continuing to start here in this hallway. We still have a day of travel left before reaching Coruscant, we can go somewhere more comfortable.” Obi-Wan said.

”Thank you Master Kenobi.” Leia said graciously.

They all then were led out hallway.

Chapter Text

“So just to recap everything.” Obi-Wan said with his head in his hands as he and the group sat around each other.

“You four time-traveled over 30 years into the past, and are claiming to be Anakin’s son and future family.” He looked very tired as he said this.

That wording only slightly annoyed Leia, well no it very much did.

“Not all of us are.” She hurried to put in.

Obi-Wan just stared at her blankly, looking much more like the old tired man Leia had seen so many years ago.

“Right, that makes so much sense thank you.” He replied sarcastically.

“No need to be rude Obi-Wan, just because you cope with sarcasm doesn’t mean everyone does.” Anakin chided from across the room.

She was honestly surprised how... unbothered? Her over glorified sperm donor was acting to this entire situation. Based on nearly everything she knew about Vader, he was especially quick to anger with no tolerance for nonsense, and well honestly this situation was nonsense.

Luke looked slightly perplexed as he looked between the two. He was on the edge of his seat with amazement in his eyes. He also looked perplexed by something at the moment...

“So you don’t hate him? Don’t hate each other? Not even a little.” Luke looked back and forth between the two like Anakin was going to stab Obi-Wan at any second.

Leia internalized her groan, but just listened on. She had to be honest she was curious, after all he did quite literally kill him.

“No? Why would I hate him?” Anakin scrunched up his face at that.

Luke just shook his head.

“No, no reason...” he then waited a few seconds before continuing,

“So hypothetically, for curiousity’s sake...” he paused,

“If you were to turn to the dark side, what would make you.” He dragged out.

Anakin’s face went into that of confusion and basically said what the fuck does that even mean.

“I would never turn willingly. Never.” He said vehemently.

Luke just gave him a look that seemed to encompass everything Leia was feeling because, yes he did turn so this was not helping.

“Well I said hypothetically.”

She could hear Han stifle a snort, and she saw Din shake his head in fond exasperation. 

But he ended up just dropping the question for now. A few awkward seconds pass before Luke opened his mouth again.

“Ok so hypothetically-“

Anakin just groaned.

“Fine.” Anakin sighed out. He looked towards Obi-Wan who was looking at the two with a raised eyebrow.

“Obi-Wan. Would you by any chance be trying to kill me at the moment?” Even Luke looked at him curious.

Obi-Wan just looked towards Anakin and Luke’s curious eyes and blinked slowly in a parental sort of disappointment and exasperation.

“No.” He said.

Anakin clapped his hands together and turned back to Luke.

“See, so now I have no reason to want to kill Obi-Wan.” Luke just shrugged mulling that over.

“Figured I would ask.”

Obi-Wan was mentally trying to figure out why the fuck he would even feel the need to ask that, which also matched with all the people from the past’s thoughts.

“As fun as this is, despite your wishes Ahsoka, I am thinking we should at least warn the council of these events.” Obi-Wan said momentarily ignoring what ever the kriff that was.

Ahsoka looked at him shaking her head.

“So we should just ask the council what to do? Won’t they, you know, be a little confused on why Anakin’s son of all people apparently traveled back in time and now is asking really weird oddly specifc questions.” Ahsoka said with doubt towards Obi-Wan’s idea.

“I think they are valid questions.” Luke pitched in.

Din just shook his head.

“That make no sense to these people Luke.” He said gently to him.

Anakin was sitting slouched over.

“Frankly none of this makes any sense. With, you two being siblings, your my son, your not my daughter, the Council just letting him be a Master and married? And Mandolorian?” He sighed.

Leia just rolled her eyes at him.

“Maybe if you hadn’t-“ she started to say back, her impulsivity seeping into her actions.

“Ok weren’t you the one concern with the time line Leia.” Luke interrupted her.

He can still-

“And I can still hear you through our force bond.” Luke placated.

Leia humphed at that. Kriffing Nerfherder. Did he just forget about the whole Vader cutting his hand off? Or him trying to kill everyone?

“I still don’t know what I did.” Anakin put his hands up giving her a slightly startled look.

How did this become Darth Vader ? Was the only thing Leia thought after that.

Anakin was reeling over this. They were being so dodgy with their answers it was kind of frustrating at this point.

He had this nagging feeling though that something had gone really wrong in the future leading to this dancing around questions.

“If we just told them everything, I could lay it out nicely, and maybe, just maybe not everything would go down the sarlacc throat.” Luke said to his sister.

Yeah something bad definitely happened.

“Luke-“

“I think he may have a point Leia, I would like to think we didn’t get into this situation for nothing.” Han interrupted her.

She turned on him.

“You barely believe in the force.”

“Well I do now.” He said stubbornly back.

”You used to call it ‘nonsense’ and you still do.” She pointed out.

“I am not being paid enough to deal with more of your defective family drama, so out in the open I say.” Han said crossing his arms.

“First of all, you married me therefore you are apart if this defective family drama, also you aren’t even being paid, thirdly there will be repercussions from this .” Leia said exasperated.

“Still. It should be said now.” He said stubbornly

“No matter how much I even may not get along with Han, why not say everything now?” Din put in.

”See? Mando agrees even.” Han gestured towards him.

Luke gave her a cocky smile when seeing she was outnumbered by this.

“I win.” He said finally, he then looked over to the other party’s expectant faces.

“So can we just ask questions or...” Ahsoka excitedly trialed off.

Luke looked around at each and just nodded.

“I think that could work.”

“This is going to backfire in our faces.” Leia deadpanned.

“Probably.” Obi-Wan said as well, but neither opposed it anymore.

“Can I ask the first one.” Ahsoka said.

“Who exactly allowed you to be married, you mentioned a Vader? Is he a Council member?” She shot off before they could say yes.

Of course it would be that question she would ask first.

Luke opened his mouth before shutting it quickly, instead of answering he just snorted at the idea of Vader in robes as a Council member, like he didn’t murder, them all, or most, it was still unclear.

“Well as the only full-Jedi-Master-“ he started to explain.

“What?!?” They each shouted.

“Only?”

“What does that even mean?”

“I knew it was kriffing bad.”

They were each now looking at him with rapt attention.

“Why can you not phrase things gently.” Leia said towards him.

“How else can I breach this subject? Oh yeah by the way, all the Jedi were purged like forever ago and now I can do whatever I want, it’s not like I know the Code, it doesn’t exist.” He said back.

He then looked back to the other group and just looked at their shocked faces, on the verge of freaking out, oh shit.

“Filter Luke, filter.” Din said towards him.

“Yeah my bad.”

“ The Jedi were purged?!?” Came the sure enough questions.

“Alright I know that sounds bad.” He tried to calm.

“Sounds bad?! Purged means like dead.” He heard his father just say back dumbfounded.

“How is that even possible.” He continued disbelievingly.

“Does this go back to this Vader guy?” Ahsoka asked from next to him.

Luke just blinked at them all, how to go about this.

“Well technically... to answer your earlier question, no Vader was not a Council member that approved marriage, at least I don’t think he ever was, well maybe the marriage bit.” He added the last part as an after-thought as he now realized that Vader was technically married. So half-truths.

“And yes the Jedi were...purged. No more Jedi, well some, because force sensitivity is always around, I don’t know if Vader figured he could just keep killing them or something...” he tried to so elequently explain.

The group just looked at him with vague confusion.

“So your saying that some person named Vader killed all the Jedi.” Obi-Wan added slightly skeptical.

”Are we dead?” Ahsoka asked worried.

Luke just shook his head. This went bad.

“Of course not that would be crazy, it is known now that it was an order called by the Emperor that made the clones kill all the Jedi.” He said reasonably, also ignoring Ahsoka’s question.

This did not prove to go over reasonably as all of their faces just went stark white.

“That is even more insane, we would never betray our Generals.” Cody put in looking more anxious than ever.

Rex nodded in agreement next to them.

“I have full faith in my men.” his father added on looking even more skeptical of everything that was coming out of his mouth.

“It wasn’t their faults, thats why.” Din hurried to put in.

“They were forced to, they had no choice.” He furthered to explain the point.

That didn’t seem to relieve them even a little.

“We are being controlled.” Rex asked, slightly panic seeping into his voice.

“How is that even possible.” He said disbelievingly.

“Turns out it was pretty easy for  Emperor Palpatine-“

“ Palpatine?!?” Came the next alarmed question.

Did they not know that? No they did not apparently.

“The Chancellor?” Ahsoka just asked confused.

“Uh... Leia I dug a hole.”

“Yes I can see that Luke.” She said rolling her eyes knowingly.

“So your saying all the Jedi were purged and the Supreme Chancellor has to do with controlling all of the clones.” Obi-Wan said trying to clear things up for everyone and more than likely himself.

“Well...yeah.” Luke responded.

Obi-Wan just nodded, while Anakin looked at him in total denial.

“The Chancellor would never, he is a good friend of mine, he would never betray us.”

Well now that made sense Luke couldn’t help thinking.

“Of course you would think that and doubt what we say.” Leia said accusingly.

“I have known him since I was nine, he has never showed any reason to think otherwise.” Anakin shot back defensive.

They each stared at each dangerously, and despite everything Luke couldn’t help think how alike the two looked... Leia would definitely kill him if she knew he had that thought.

“Maybe we should switch questions, my bad everyone.” Ahsoka said lightly, while simultaneously looking between them anxiously.

“No, no, because what the fuck is going on.” Rex spoke up, and his voice cracking.

“I am with Rex.” Anakin spoke up again.

“I knew we should have waited to explain with the Council present.” Obi-Wan said self -blameingly.

“I can do this really cool trick with my blaster.” Han shouted over everyone.

That made everyone seem to pause though and look over at him confused.

”I don’t know I wanted to say something.” He shrugged.

“Anyways, Palpatine had to do with a purge?” Cody asked wanting to get back to that as well.

“Ok, I see that you are all panicked.” Luke said.

“No really.” Ahsoka said in a sarcastic manner.

“To explain, yes I am the only fully trained Jedi-Master, that I know of at least, and yes there was a purge of all the Jedi, and yes Palpatine was directly responsible by giving an order to control all the clones against their wills.” He quickly got out.

Anakin looked like he wanted to protest at that again, but another glare from Leia shut him up.

“Does that answer that? Ok next question.” Luke said finally. He really just wanted to avoid this for a little.

Din leaned over to him.

“I don’t think they can just brush that over.”

“Yeah we can’t.” Ahsoka and Anakin said at the same time.

“This doesn’t add up whatsoever. Why would Palpatine even have reason to betray us.” Anakin said still in full denial.

“Because he wanted power and called the order that set of the chips in the clones heads to purge all the Jedi accusing them of treason.” Leia answered that one.

“I can’t believe this.” Anakin said shaking his head.

“Of course you can’t.” Leia said.

“You should really trust us on this, he is the reason your dead anyways.” Luke trailed off after Leia’s statement.

Anakin just blinked at him.

“Skyguy’s dead.” Ahsoka said, anxiety filling her small voice.

“Uh...well technically you all are, purge and all.” He said awkwardly.

“Of course we are all dead.” Obi-Wan said pressing his hands into his eyes.

They all just sat in a total dumbfounded silence.

Luke was internally cringing, but after all this he really did still believe this was the right route. They all needed to know, knowledge of this awful future may just prevent it. Bright side and all that.

“So who is Vader?” Cody spoke up connecting the few dots left. If they figured out who he was that only left Palpatine and no one had to die.

“Good question.” Luke said pointing towards Cody.

Leia shot him an alarmed look and he just shrugged back at her.

“You don’t know who he is?” Anakin asked alarmed.

Luke looked back at him blankly.

“No we do. We very much do...” Luke scratched his chin.

Yeah they won’t like this if they were shocked by all this.

“So when I said that Palpatine killed you...you were in your 40’s.” He started to explain.

“Me and Leia were not raised by you because the Republic fell shortly after the Clone Wars, and before our birth...and well.”

“Palpatine had a reason to wait that long because he needed his apprentice...”

Anakin was still just looking at him blankly. This would be so much easier if they figured it out themselves.

“Ok fine. Your Vader. Darth Vader.” Luke finally just got around to saying.

He saw Obi-Wan’s jaw go slack, and Ahsoka was looking at him with her eyes wide and filled with disbelief.

And Anakin looked like he finally cracked, as his eye twitched slightly.

He opened his mouth in astonishment, but didn’t say anything.

It was a staggering silence that followed that statement. Luke bit his lip anxiously.

“Surprise?” He said waving his hands at them

Chapter Text

A pin could quite literally be heard dropping inside this environment Luke indirectly, no directly caused.

Anakin just started laughing slightly.

”No I’m not.” He said shaking his head. “That is- thats...” he started to trail off as he looked at the cringing look Luke was making.

Not Joking?

“I’m Vader? Will be Vader?” Anakin asked disbelief creeping into his voice. He frantically leaned up in his seat.

“But- but you said he killed the Jedi, I’m jedi- Sith apprentice?” He stuttered off with his voice also going a tad shrill. Very unbecoming of supposed big bad sith lord.

“Yeah.” Luke just said. Really though what else would he say to that. He already said it.

“I hunted Jedi?”

“Well no need to keep saying it, you are just going to make Luke’s daddy issues worse, kid has enough as is.” Han said from off to the side.

“Ever wonder why he married that Dilf over there.” He continued saying gesturing towards Din as he said this.

Din turned his head sharply over to Han who just put is hands up.

“No.” He said quickly.

“I wasn’t offering, but it’s true.”

Poor Anakin was still stunned from the earlier revelation, though that did make him seem to slow down his hyperventilating. Probably just the absurdity of the topic change.

Luke was just affronted.

“I don’t have daddy issues” Luke sputtered out indignantly.

“Our birth father literally cut off your hand.” Leia said chimed in from the side.

Oh so she has issues being associated with the man any other day of the week, but now she acknowledges it?

Luke hardly thought that was fair.

“Well, we still had an ok relationship, other than him trying to capture me and kill you guys and turn me to the dark side.” He said matter-of-factly.

Leia just smacked her head on the table and groaned. Din had his hands in his face.

“Oh I love you Luke.”

“I don’t have them.” He just said over that since he saw nobody seemed to believe that.

“You’re frighteningly oblivious.” Leia muttered.

“Fine,” he begrudgingly said, “but like you don’t have them too.”

She made a face at him, but didn’t really deny it.

“I cut off your hand.” Anakin murmured in a daze.

They really should just stop talking, honestly it was unsure how much more Anakin could take before just passing out.

“What the kriff is happening.” Ahsoka just said.

They were literally just talking about the impending demise of the Jedi and Anakin’s fall to the dark side and now they were discussing this.

“What?” Luke said from where he seemed to be contemplating, “Oh right purge, Vader, etc.” He smiled at everyone. “So what now?”

“I wouldn’t turn.” Anakin continued to repeat to himself as a sort of comfort.

“I think you broke him.” Han whispered not so subtlety.

And really though, Luke wasn’t even sure he could deny that, as he just stared at his young father slowly shaking his head.

“I trusted Palpatine for over ten years of my life.” He breathed out.

“He made me his apprentice? I wouldn’t have- I would’ve done something, I wouldn’t of just joined. Why- why would I have.”

Well shit they definitely broke the man.

“I mean we don’t know, propaganda and all that, bad Jedi, good Empire, besides you weren’t very... talkative.” Luke continued.

Anakin just nodded and then, if possible his eyes widened and he became even more white.

“When you were talking about those stupid hypotheticals... Oh Force, I killed Obi-Wan.” He muttered out with the sound muffling in his hands.

It has been a while since seeing someone have a mental breakdown.

The last time they saw one was with Luke when he thought Din walked out on their wedding night, but was just in the bathroom...

Entirely different circumstances, but very similar reactions, the self-doubt, and self-blame and all that.

Luke just looked back and forth.

“Do you want me to lie, or be comforting, I can maybe do the latter?”

Anakin just groaned in response.

Obi-Wan looked over towards him worridly. He put a calming hand on his shoulder.

Anakin looked up at him.

“Why aren’t you mad or something, I literally killed you.”

“Not yet,” Obi-Wan said, “There is still time to prevent this, at least we know of these...circumstances.”

“Padmé?” He seemed to change quickly.

“What about Padmé?” He looked desperate at this point.

“You said- I turned, but she would have still taken care of you...no.” He seemed to trail off as he figured out the answer to his own plea.

“I still don’t know why?” He just muttered asking for a reason.

“We really don’t know much.” Leia said, which was bad if Leia of all people were comforting towards him, at least her version of comforting at least.

He just responded by groaning again.

“I mean technically you didn’t kill Ahsoka...if that helps.” Din put in as well.

Luke looked over at him.

“How do you know that?” Now he would like to believe his father didn’t off someone he was obviously close to, but they were way past that.

“I met her before.” He just said shortly with little to no explanation.

“Huh.” Luke mused along.

“Does that imply I kill more of the people I cared about? I killed Jedi...what the kriff.” Anakin continued to mutter.

“Wait so I’m good?” Ahsoka said, also still worried about her friends, but if she was fine thats nice.

“I mean apparently.”

“This is still not comforting.” Anakin moaned.

“So you don’t have any idea why I fell?” Anakin asked somewhat desperately.

“Ah, no.” Luke responded.

“I honestly tried looking into what little records there were of Anakin Skywalker, but they were all wiped out. Like all of them. Darth Vader really hated Anakin Skywalker that was for sure.” Luke explained.

“He did that too, he never referred to them, him, as being the same person if that helps, you aren’t him yet.”

“But no, I don’t know why you turned in the first place... hence the earlier questioning.” He rambled on.

“I will still do those things though,” Anakin sighed. He did seem a little less traumatized by the thought though, so it may have eased his mind a little.

Anakin seemed to be rethinking the question. As he thought more into himself and what he would do that would cause him to go over the edge. He already knew he wasn’t a model Jedi, he was quick to anger, and held his heart on his sleeve, both not great for being a Jedi. Those weren’t the principles that have been ingrained into him since he was nine.

In his defense the Jedi were more always, “let go of your emotions rather than actually know how to process them”, and that definitely fucked him up a tad.

Emotions used to always be a key part of him. Part of his old culture made it vital for attachments, he always had his mother, with out her he didn’t know what he would of done all those years ago...

He was quick to love Padmé. She was his rock in so many ways. She always knew how to keep him grounded, he had no idea what became of her in the future and considering the circumstances it was less than great, she was probably gone and he knew that would have definitely sent him over an edge...

In addition to all of that he grew attached to Palpatine.

He was always his mentor and a fatherly figure in his life, one that he had never had in his old life. He had took him under his wing when he felt outcasted by the Jedi...

He was a Sith Lord. He was the Sith Lord. Darth Sidious. He trained Dooku. So Dooku was the apprentice as they came in twos.

Even more shocking this man was the Figure head of the Republic while simultaneously leading the Separatists. He was Dooku’s master so he would be orchestrating this entire war.

He is supposed to be the enemy and he has been using him this entire time.

Anakin couldn’t help but have denial about this entire situation.

That man would take him as a whole Sith Apprentice.

“If it also helps.” He heard his future son, another insane thing, say.

“You did turn back to the light, well you died like 5 minutes later, but you did it.”

Anakin didn’t know what to say to that.

“Isn’t that impossible?” Ahsoka asked from the side, Anakin couldn’t help but agree.

They had always been taught that once one went down that path, they could never come back.

“Well evidently not, as I don’t think many Sith apprentices chuck their masters off a shaft.” Luke said light heartedly.

It took little to recognize Anakin was speechless.

“So I mean, ignoring all the previous genocide, killing kids and families, you did end the man that started it all.” Luke continued.

And....so close. This kid was too honest sometimes.

“Luke-“ Leia cut herself off though. Honestly it was pointless at this point.

“I bet we could take Palpatine.” Luke mused, smiling slightly at that thought.

He tended to ramble in awkward silences, but this made sense, no Palpatine means no Vader, which then means no empire, which means less dead people and suffering, etc.

“With all of us it would be easy.” He reasoned. Which probably not, still an evil Sith Lord, but optimism works, good mindset and all. He caught sight of all the doubtful looks.

“What? He is just some wrinkly old bastard.” He shrugged, “he died the last time I faced him.”

Leia raised her eyebrows.

“Didn’t you come really close, like really close, to dying.”

“Technicalities.” He waved off.

“Besides we have more people now, and it isn’t just me and my pyscopath of a father with a damaged moral compass,”

“Now it’s him and me, but now we have, Ben a Jedi master, my bounty hunter husband, you the murderer of Jabba, another smaller snippy Jedi, two trained actual Clone Troopers, and Han.” He gestured towards the group. Pointing to each of the people in the room as he listed them.

“I say we got a shot.” He shrugged.

“You didn’t say anything great I did.” Han grumbled from the side.

Leia was beyond exasperation at this point.

“Did you even think about the political repercussions of this entire thing? He is the Supreme Chancellor of the Republic. He had enough support to make an entire Empire that ruled over twenty years, and even managed to make everyone suffer past him dying.”

Luke stared at her.

“Well obviously I didn’t think of that.”

He snarked back.

“Now who’s snippy.” He heard Ahsoka mutter under her breath.

“We are getting ahead here anyways.” Obi-Wan put in. “We aren’t even back to Coruscant yet. You all only appeared in our closet 45 minutes ago. We have time considering the estimated timeline.”

“Eh. I’m with Luke.” Anakin said, he just absorbed so much information in a matter of minutes, he was just going to roll with this now.

“And what a valuable opinion yours is.” Leia said back to him.

“I’m just saying-“

“What if we have Luke touch another book.” Han pitched in. Luke looked towards him alarmed.

The others just looked confused.

“Well-“

“No.” Luke said back quickly looking off remembering his last time with one.

“Ok come on. It is a book.”

“It stung kinda.”

Han just gave him a look before continuing,

“Anyways if we go to that temple, maybe we figure out a way to just... go back farther.”

“Preferably when old wrinkly is a baby and... ya know-“ he cut off that statement by made a strangling motion with his hands.

Everyone just stared at him.

Leia raised her eyebrows, she really did wonder why she married him sometimes, she loved him definitely, but sometimes she did question...not to say the idea wasn’t compelling.

“You are charming aren’t you.” Ahsoka spoke up slightly condescending and shaking her head.

”You’re a child, shush.” Han put his thumb and index finger together.

”I am a child that could kick your ass.” She jutted her chin up at him.

”Want to bet on that.” He said back towards her.

”I am a Commander and you look like you shuffled around through a lost and found box at a nightclub.” She taunted him.

“As fun as this is.” Luke interrupted. He liked Han and didn’t want him to get beat by Ahsoka right now. “Was that implying we strangle baby Palpatine?”

“Yeah I think so.” Din said in affirmative.

“Go figure.”

Rex seemed to be mulling this over.

”Who would do the...said strangling then?” He asked. He didn’t want to be forced to kill his Jetti anytime soon.

“Apparently I murder kids in my future already, whats another.” Anakin muttered darkly from off to the side. He was definitely still dealing with the Vader thing hard, it only happened a couple minutes ago so not shocking.

At least he moved from denial to an acceptance of sorts.

“No killing a sadistic baby Chancellor.” Obi-Wan spoke up shaking his head.

“Besides touching random time-travel books may send us somewhere completely off, and we may not even get the chance.” Leia added on, though she worded this in a way that showed she wasn’t completely opposed to the idea... he was a bad person, it would be valid.

Obi-Wan closed his eyes and rubbed his temples for what seemed like thousandth time.

“We can’t- really!” Obi-Wan strained his voice towards where the group was now huddled around Luke who was showing off a map, which held the temple they visited that got them here.

“It would be taking the path of least resistance.” Din reasoned in defense of the plan.

”Really, I thought you were a voice of reason?”

”He married Luke, there isn’t that much reason left inside his head.” Leia gently teased from the side, though she to was looking at the plans seriously considering this now.

“You’re a Jedi Master and you approve of that ludicrous plan.” Obi-Wan sighed turning over back towards Luke.

Luke just stared at him.

“As stated before, no code, I do whatever.” He waved off.

Obi-Wan went over and shut off the map.

“No matter how much I do not want this future to pass, we can’t just-“ he mimicked Han’s earlier demonstration of strangling.

“We can figure this out sensibly for force sake.”

Most of them had the sense to look abashed at that.

“Or!” Ahsoka shouted.

“We could get really close to Palpatine while he is eating and just, like lodge the food in his throat with the force.”

“You all are horrible influences.” Obi-Wan sighed.

”Fine, no book touching.” Luke reluctantly said, though at least he wouldn’t have to touch a book again. He did make a vow to that.

“I should check in to see the ETA,” he got up stretching slightly, “I’m not sure how much more I want to hear.” He mumbled that last part to himself.

“So are we just free to explore the ship then?” Han asked.

“I have always wanted to see an imperial cruiser up close.

“Won’t the rest of your men wonder who we are?” Leia asked towards Rex and Cody.

“Nah, they are used to weird force shit at this point.”

Anakin was still sitting on the couch with his head in his hands.

“I think my brain finally exploded.”

“We won’t let this future come to pass.” Ahsoka reassured him from the side, placing a comforting hand in his shoulder.

No, no they wouldn’t.

Chapter Text

Obi-Wan had just put his head in his hands because they were still stuck on this ship for a while.

Of course, he knew that beforehand, he didn’t know why he bothered checking, it was just comforting and this entire thing was making his head throb.

On top of all of that he was getting another message from his comm.

From the Council .

“What do we do?” Anakin asked, very much in favor of not wanting to answer it.

“Answer it.” Obi-Wan said plainly. They must have sensed something in the force. They very well couldn’t just ignore them. That would only make things more suspicious.

He went to answer, but Anakin smacked his hand.

He smacked his hand.

“What was that.” He asked incredulously.

Anakin just shrugged.

“I panicked.”

While Obi-Wan was looking at him however, the beeping stopped.

He saw that Ahsoka had hung it up and was looking slightly baffled at even herself for doing so.

“I’m so sorry, I just- I kept going and nobody was getting so-. It seemed right.” She started explaining.

Anakin looked towards her with a proud look on his face.

“Now they know that something happened.” Obi-Wan grimaced. He was a part of the Council. He had somewhat of a duty to inform them on these events...well most of these events.

“So can we just...walk around?” Luke asked.

“Since we do have awhile, I mean. She did just hang up. No big deal.”

Honestly Obi-Wan just wanted them to sit down and explain more about the future that seemed more like an apocalypse than anything...

On the other he wasn’t sure how much anyone could take.

Anakin, his brother, becomes a Sith lord.

He is supposed to be the chosen one, meant to destroy the Sith not join them, and he ended up a Sith Lord.

He also apparently kills him along with entire families, and commits genocide. All not great.

The Chancellor is also apparently a Sith Lord, and everyone seems content enough to agree on getting rid of him, so there was that.

Also, the entire Jedi Order is purged.

And apparently Anakin’s kriffing son, who he had with his wife Padmé Amidala, is essentially what is left of the Order.

So to sum it all up, Obi-Wan was ok with letting them do whatever, as he goes into his room and tries not to break down crying.

Honestly, thinking more on it, maybe it was good nobody answered because he wasn’t sure what all information would end up unceremoniously dumped onto the Council. 

“I’m going to take that as a yes.” Luke nodded.

“Is there anywhere to eat? We had been exploring that temple all day.” Han asked.

“I thought you just said you wanted to look around?” Luke asked him.

“Well now I’m thinking about that.” Han said back.

“Of course you are.” Luke said downturned.

“What's that supposed to mean.” Han said.

“Nothing, nothing at all.” Luke replied before pausing.

“You would flirt with food if you could, I saw you trying to flirt with Din too, you stupid flirt.” Luke said.

Han made a sour face before that turned into a smirk. 

“Yeah Luke, well at least I never had a crush on my sister.”

Obi-Wan just sighed. This was exactly what he meant. So close to a normal conversation...

Luke immediately stood up from his chair.

“No no, you can’t do that!” He was flushed red at this point.

“That was years ago, and now I’m married to a man so,” he ended that by sticking his tongue out at Han.

“You still did-“ Hand said before Luke just shushed him again.

Obi-Wan raised his eyebrows. He thought he could hear Anakin’s jaw drop.

“You had a crush on your sister?” Anakin asked more concerned than anything.

“Yep kissed and everything.” Han said cockily.

“That’s not true, I never had a crush, but it is a good piece of evidence.” Luke shook his head.

“But why do you have that face when talking about your wife kissing her brother.” Luke shot back.

“And technically she kissed me because of you messing with her, so technically it was your fault.” Luke reasoned.

“You still had the crush, I was merely a catalyst.” Han replied nonchalantly.

“How does this even happen.” Anakin said mostly to himself, which was reasonable when hearing that his future kids kriffing kissed each other.

“It's not my fault! She- she- was very charismatic.” He stuttered out before turning to Din who just seemed to radiate amusement at his flustering husband.

“No she isn’t-“ Han started saying before Leia glared at him.

“You instigator.” Luke argued.

“She kissed me because of you. I had no choice... Leia you can’t do that!”

Leia looked extremely done with this conversation.

“What happened to looking around and relaxing before we try and fixed this messed up time period.” She seemed to ask herself.

They each ignored her.

“Well you had an awfully smug look on you face afterwards, leaning back in your chair with that smirk.” Han taunted.

Din looked towards Leia and they both just shook their heads at their husbands.

“Fine! If anything this is Obi-Wan’s fault that ever happened, if we are pointing fingers.” Luke pointed over at a flabbergasted Obi-Wan.

“How would any of what ever that was been my fault.” He said aghast.

This was why Obi-Wan wanted to let them do whatever, so he wouldn’t have to hear this.

“I’m still stuck on the fact you kissed your sister.” Anakin said with a grimace.

“Yes it was your fault. Future you had an opportunity so much as when I first said she was pretty, he could have just said, yeah she’s your sister, shut that down, but noo that would have been too hard.” He said while doing a surprisingly good Obi-Wan impression, Coruscanti accent and all.

He then pointed over at Anakin.

“And as I said, she kissed me!” He was getting flustered.

“What even is this family.” Din muttered mostly to himself, not speaking aloud how much he absolutely adores them.

“No no, you knew exactly what you married into, you have seen worse. You love me for that.”

“Yes, yes I do.”

“It was not like I wanted to, leave me out of this.” Leia contributed annoyed.

“Your future kids were involved with incest.” Ahsoka said laughing slightly with a fake grimace.

“You nasty.” She said towards Luke.

“We didn’t even know we were siblings.” Luke said quietly.

“Still incest.”

Obi-Wan just sighed.

They never really did go exploring the ship, instead electing to sit around and settle on explaining safe things that wouldn’t send anybody into cardiac arrest or give them brain-aneurysms, which apparently is a lot to ask for.

They had even gotten another comm transmission, but Anakin “panicked” again and threw it away.

Everything was completely under-control.

Ahsoka meanwhile seemed to be weirdly unbothered by the things Obi-Wan was.

She was mulling over all the information in her own head, yes a lot of that was bad, but a couple of things seemed to stick out to her.

She still just wanted to ask them questions one-by-one. There was so much stuff unanswered, and this was all extremely fascinating in such a morbid way. 

Even after finding out everything, she still found the fact that Anakin had a kid (kids?) to easily be the most surprising. Not that that is a bad thing, the Sith Lord thing was definitely more terrible. It honestly barely felt real, it was so unbelievable, but the evidence was right in front of them.

She didn’t really want to ask more questions on that area, she thinks everyone had enough of that for at least now.

Something had been nagging at her as well...

“You have a kid?” She asked towards Din suddenly.

Obi-Wan and Anakin both raised their eyebrows at her, seeming to ask where she got that from.

Luke’s face lit up at that.

“Yes, his name is Grogu, and he is an angel.” Luke started gushing.

She was right!?! She could feel their incredibly.

How was it that shocking though? Sure it was a harsh topic change, but that was it.

“How did you know he had a kid?” Obi-Wan asked.

She just looked at him with an, are you stupid look and pointed towards Han.

“He literally just called him a Dilf.” She explained.

“Oh.” Anakin said quietly, he didn’t really put that together as he was in the middle of finding out he was a Sith Lord.

“I do not understand how that would explain him being a father.” Obi-Wan raised his eyebrow.

Ahsoka just bit her lip and smiled.

“Do you not know what Dilf means?” She asked smirking.

He just gave her an unimpressed look.

“Even I know what it means.” Anakin said to him.

“Well that doesn’t worry me at all.” Obi-Wan said back.

“Not really, I know what it means.” Rex shook his head.

“Even I do.” Cody added in as well.

“It means Dad I’d like to fuck.” Ahsoka said bluntly shaking her head.

“You are still young, why do you know that.” Obi-Wan said slightly abashed.

She spent way too much time with the clones and Anakin.

He also saw Han smirk and wink at Din who was just unamused.

“So yeah, it was self-explanatory... Holy shit Skyguy you would be a grandfather if you didn’t go insane.” She said excited, ignoring Obi-Wan and moving on.

“Thanks Snips.” He said dryly.

“I hope Grogu and Ben are doing ok.” Luke said looking off.

“Ben?”

“Leia and Han’s son.”

“So you both have children.”

“Well yes. Ben is five and Grogu is fifty-five.” Luke continued, his eyes lighting up.

Though, that would make one pause.

“Fifty-five?” Anakin asked.

“Do you have a problem with that.” Din said accusingly.

“No.” Anakin said quickly. “No, just curious.”

“What species is he?” Ahsoka asked interested.

“Well... that's unclear, but he is the same species as what Master Yoda was.” Luke explained before looking off to the side with a melancholy look on his face.

“I miss that batshit crazy goblin.” He said fondly.

Every single other person raised their eyebrows at that because did he just refer to Yoda as a batshit crazy goblin?

The Grand Master of the Jedi Council Yoda, a batshit crazy goblin.

It definitely was a good thing nobody answered that call.

“Is he talking about our Yoda?” Ahsoka asked, genuinely curious because everyone was taught to respect Master Yoda and that was not necessarily respect.

“Little green guy.” Luke clarified.

Ahsoka just nodded.

“It seems so.” Obi-Wan just said, while Anakin looked mildly impressed that Luke had the guts to refer to Yoda as such.

“Did Yoda go insane.”

“I’m not sure.” Luke put in.

“He trained me... but he also messed with my stuff and ate my damn sausage. I miss him though.”

“I miss Chewie.” Han put in from the side.

“He was easily one of the most level-headed of us four.”

They all couldn't help but nod and agree with that.

“At least he is the one watching Ben and Grogu though.” Leia put in.

In truth, she did miss her friend. She was even getting better at understanding Wookie now, but she hasn’t seen him since he went first hand in freeing the Wookies. She did help when she could though.

Leia then saw Din shuffle slightly over from the side.

What was that?

She looked over at her brother-in-law curiously, shooting him a skeptical look.

“You did drop them off with Chewie right?”

This was a perfectly reasonable question to ask because that was what they agreed on when the four decided to make their trip.

“Uh... he was busy.” Din explained.

Oh, no.

“Din where are our kids at?” She asked him.

“They are with someone I trust-“ he started.

“Oh force they are with Boba.” Luke seemed to read Din very quickly.

“You left two small children with Boba Fett?” She asked him. She didn’t know Boba well, but she did know Vader hired him, and he got Han frozen in carbonite. That was enough to get him on her bad side.

“That is very probable- yes.” He said instead of directly answering.

“I hope Ben annoys the shit out of him.” Han said.

“You couldn’t have chosen Cara or something? Boba was the only option? You saw Chewie was busy and your next logical person was Boba?” Leia continued.

“I’m sorry, but did you just say you knew and trust Boba Fett.” Obi-Wan asked incredulously.

“Jango’s son Boba Fett.” Anakin wanted to clarify.

”I forgot about him.” Rex said honestly.

“No no. Din trusts him, I never said I did.” Leia made out to be clear.

“Cara was also busy and he isn’t-“ Din shook his head.

“Shush.” Luke told him.

“Time and place.”

Din was just standing there, Luke was right, it was still shocking that Luke of all people was telling him about time and place.

“At the time it seemed reasonable.” Din further defended himself.

“Still Boba.” Leia said.

“Well we can’t change that now.” Luke said trying to make peace.

“You all know Boba then?” Obi-Wan asked.

“Yes considering Vader hired him to hunt us down.” She said sharply.

“Why am I such a dick.” Anakin asked, fully resigned to his once fate.

“At least your self-aware.” Leia said annoyed.

“They will be fine Leia.” Luke put in. “Besides we don’t even know how kriffed the timeline is at this point. Maybe everything will change, maybe this is an alternate timeline and nothing will change, who even knows if any time will pass when we get back, if we even get back...” Luke had started to ramble.

Honestly thinking too much about it just made it worse.

“Here I have a picture.” He continued excited, trying to deflect his mind from the daunting thought of consequences that come with most actions.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a photo of Grogu on Ben’s lap making his hair float everywhere as Ben was laughing.

“Aww, he is so cute.” Ahsoka said.

“Padmé would love them.”

Something seemed to click right in Luke’s heart hearing that his mother would love his family. He knew she would have, she was his mother, but hearing it was different.

“Oh shavvit.” Anakin said.

“I need to tell Padmé about all of this, I can’t keep this from her.” He said towards Obi-Wan.

“Will we, will we meet her?” Luke asked hesitantly.

Leia was also looking curiously up.

She would love to meet her birth mother as well. Bail and Breha were her parents, but she always wanted to be able to meet the woman Padmé Amidala was. She had always heard stories about her and the woman became a somewhat idol to her.

“More than likely, she would want to meet you.” Anakin said towards them.

Luke seemed to light up at that as well.

Leia began to think about everything else. So many things, and people were alive and well here.

Alderaan was thriving here. She could potentially visit her home. She could see her Mama and Papa again.

It wouldn’t hurt to ask if she could at least meet them, so much has been given away already.

“Bail and Breha Organa, would- would there be a chance for me to see them.”

Anakin tilt his head to the side curious.

“I don’t see why not. But why? It might be out of the way as I’m not sure whether they are on Coruscant even.” He asked.

She knew it would be a little unfair to feel resentment towards this man, but how couldn’t she?

It's not like he knew that they were her true parents... that he had been one that supported the monstrous device that destroyed her people. That he would torture her-

She cut off her thoughts and kept a cool face.

“They are my parents and I would very much like the chance to see them.” She explained with an authority in her voice with little room to deny that fact.

Anakin still seemed confused.

Obi-Wan seemed to roll his eyes.

“She was adopted by them, Force Anakin.”

“That is another bone I have to pick by the way.” Luke cut into the conversation.

“She got royalty. I repeat royalty, and I was the one who got separated and placed on Tatooine.” He said with only a little resentment.

“Not that I didn’t love Aunt Beru and Uncle Owen, but still I would have made an amazing piece of royalty.”

“Really? You?” Ahsoka teased him. Which she couldn’t blame her for doing so, it was entertaining.

“I will have you know, I am a god-damn angel.” He pointed at her, he was only teasing back though as he said it with a smile on his lips.

Obi-Wan took back the focus as he looked sympathetically towards Leia.

“If we somehow get this group to make a competent plan for getting rid of The Chancellor, I am sure we will need as many allies as we can get, specifically powerful ones, and Bail Organa and Alderaan I am sure would be willing.” He said to her.

“I am sure Senator Organa would love to see you.”

Anakin just gave her thumbs up, as he is very eloquent with words.

“Thank you, Master Kenobi.”

“Speaking of which we really should get an appropriate plan of action for when we do land.”

“Taking out a baby Chancellor is off the table.” He said before Han could open his mouth again.

“And the Council knows something is going on, thanks to Anakin and Ahsoka’s wonderful problem solving skills.” He said with sarcasm.

“Addressing them should be of top priority when we return, then logically dealing with the Chancellor.”

“Also the mind control stuff in the clones.” Ahsoka put in.

“I am still not convinced we should tell them.” Anakin said before pausing.

“I should comm Padmé though, and warn her of all of this.”

“Really? You panic at the thought of telling the council, but not Senator Amidala?” Obi-Wan said confused.

“She is much prettier, smarter, and nicer than the Council.” Anakin smirked, listing things off, but relented in at least waiting.

“The Crest could have gotten us to Coruscant so much faster.” Din said while thinking about his ship still docked outside that awful temple.

“It literally almost broke down twice, the Millennium Falcon on the other hand-“ Han started saying before Leia scoffed.

“Is still also a borderline piece of junk.”

Han shook his head.

“Now now, don’t get all high and mighty, I got you to admit you liked the Flacon, it made the Kessel run in less than twelve parsecs.” He pointed at her, while Leia just shook her head smiling.

“So I’ve heard.”

“Does not change the fact that it wasn’t even in a condition to travel before we got here.” She smirked up at him.

“Which is why the Crest is superior.” Din cut in.

Interrupting however, a few familiar beeping sounds suddenly entered into the room.

The blue-and-white terror droid, as Din liked to refer to him as, entered the room with a few curses and messages as he came up to Anakin.

Anakin placed his head on the dome of the droid affectionately before it read off its message, the man seemed to understand.

Din instinctively took a few steps away from the droid. He already barely liked the droid his husband treated like a pet, and now to find out his soon-to-be evil father was close to him did not help things.

Next thing they would find out Goldenrod, as Han also called the protocol droid, is also with this group. In which Din would kindly tap out at that.

“Artoo?” Luke mouthed towards him surprised to see the droid, just as everyone else was.

“No, don’t answer it, Artoo you know me better than that.” Anakin responded to the urgent beeps.

“No.”

“That makes sense.”

“Then don’t.”

Their conversation continued in this, few words fashion, until Artoo seemed to say something that made Anakin pause.

“Oh.”

He then turned towards Obi-Wan.

“So the Council definitely knows we are involved with something, they got into contact with the ship and apparently word spread fast and now they know we have unauthorized people on our ship.” He quickly rambled off.

“Which doesn’t make sense because nobody saw them, unless they did, but the point is the Council is not exactly happy and now they want to see us, like now.”

Obi-Wan just pinched his brow.

“And you’re surprised?”

“Well I figured they would wait a little longer, this isn’t exactly strange for us-“

“Are we sure this is the case? Or are you just speculating and panicking Master.” Ahsoka said.

“Why respond at all? Won’t we be arriving later today?” Din genuinely asked. So they wait a little?

The response was just incredible looks.

“Actually I’m in favor of that.”

“Anakin-“

“What he said makes sense-“

“No-“

“Artoo we will not be responding now, inform them of technical difficulties-“

“They will absolutely not believe that-“

Artoo beeped in affirmation.

“Too late.” Anakin said happily.

Obi-Wan huffed for what seemed like the millionth time.

“That was extremely impulsive-“

“And you’re suprised?” Anakin said in the same tone Obi-Wan said in just a minute before.

He just rolled his eyes in response.

“I can’t believe you know Artoo?” Han said what most of their group was thinking in the moment.

He then turned towards Leia.

“I thought your family owned him?”

Leia cocked her head to the side as she stared at the droid.

“Yeah they did.” She said just as perplexed.

“The Organa’s end up owning Artooey?” Ahsoka asked, also confused.

Frankly Din really didn’t care about this all that much, the droid still liked to make his life miserable no matter where he came from.

“He’s mine.” Anakin said slightly possessively. Though, Artoo seemed to beep in agreement.

“Yeah that is what’s shocking.” Luke said slowly.

“Besides he had to go with some one, I doubt he would have stayed with you after you fell.” Ahsoka said poking at him.

“Yeah, that is fair.” Anakin said resigned.

Obi-Wan seemed to still be anxious about the Council debate.

“I will not be surprised if they catch us right outside the ship.” He shook his head.

“Oh relax, they have better things to do than wait there for us, we will have plenty of time to sort things out.” Anakin brushed off.

Hindsight shows that they would most definitely wait for them to catch them right outside the ship.

“Don’t say it.” Anakin said closing his eyes.

“I didn’t say anything.” Obi-Wan said.

“You were thinking it.”

Mace Windu was standing at the end of the entrance with his arms crossed over his chest.

“There better be a good reason for whatever you have gotten yourselves into this time, and ignoring calls from the Council?” He said directing most of that towards Anakin especially, before catching sight of the other four strangers behind them.

“A good reason indeed.”

“Yeah, well there were so many communication errors and technical difficulties-“

“What do you mean technical difficulties? Your droid just shut down all communication, which is extremely dangerous might I add.” Mace said back.

“Oh... how dare he lie to us,” Anakin very badly lied and turned to Artoo who rolled up next to him.

“Artoo how many times have we-“ Artoo just raised his very menacing taser at him.

“Right ok.” Anakin turned back to Windu.

“If you can not answer that then perhaps you could answer who your unidentifiable passengers are.” Mace said already annoyed, which seems to be a new record.

“Uh, yeah I can definitely answer that, but we probably shouldn’t do that here.” He tried to dig himself out.

“He isn’t wrong Master Windu, we really should discuss this elsewhere.” Obi-Wan put in as support.

Mace just tiredly nodded as they fully exited the ship.

“Does this mean we are heading to the Jedi Temple.” Luke asked excited.

“I don’t even know who you are.” Mace said, they were though.

“Don’t worry Master Windu, you will soon.” Ahsoka said with a smirk lining her lips.

“By the way could I get a holo-recorder?” She asked as they left.

Chapter Text

Everyone was so surprisingly silent on the way over, that it almost definitely came off as suspicious.

They had taken a simple cruiser for transport to take them from the hangar straight to the Jedi temple. The ship allowed every one enough space to spread out for the most part.

It was lined with seating on each side of the ship. Mace Windu sat on one side as everyone else sat on the other like his disobedient children.

Luke thought most of the silence came from nobody knowing what to talk about without spilling everything. That was what Luke was doing at least. Everyone else seemed to fall into their own patterns of silence.

Master Windu kept looking over at the group with his eyebrows raised and kept disappointingly shaking his head.

Anakin was studiously avoiding eye contact as he kept messing with his prosthetic arm, occasionally making a crackling sound as something fell off it. Where he found tools Luke didn’t know.

Ahsoka kept smiling awkwardly at Master Windu every time he looked over at her, as she and Rex were trying to get the recorder on his helmet working.

She really was serious about that.

Rex and Cody were dragged along because they were “directly involved in the situation.” So in other words they were accomplices, though they didn’t appear surprised.

Rex mostly continued to help Ahsoka with her mission, as Cody would occasionally tell them what they were doing wrong.

Obi-Wan was just tired and kept randomly grimacing. He did give a few spaced out comments for Anakin to stop fidgeting with his arm because he will break it or to tell Ahsoka that having a holorecorder would not be life or death.

They each responded in kind by shushing Obi-Wan.

Then there was Din who kept looking at Artoo suspiciously, he never did warm up to him well, but Artoo made sure to continuously annoy him, so the paranoia is warranted. Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to have Artoo so close to him.

The droid just glared right back at Din, well as much as a droid with no face could glare at least. Luke could have sworn he saw Artoo try and steal Din’s weapons every time he turned to the side.

Leia looked like she was preparing a speech in her head, which she probably was given the situation. Luke could tell it was taking everything inside her to not start pacing around the room as she usually did when she got thinking. She just kept tapping her foot on the ground as she silently started mouthing words of whatever she was preparing to say to the Council.

Han just looked like he had no thoughts in his head. He did try and egg Artoo on to mess with Din a few times, as well as eventually tell Rex and Ahsoka what they were doing wrong with the recorder mess. They forgot to restart it.

Then Ahsoka got annoyed as Han predictably started to gloat, then he called her Snips, then she called him child, then Han started sputtering, then Luke somehow got roped in and got the nickname Shorty. Of all things that was the nickname he got.

They did stop because of Master Windu’s stare eventually.

And Luke was just marveling over the entire idea of Coruscant for most of the ride.

He knew he should be wary or something because they were more than likely going to get reprimanded by the Council... but they were going to get reprimanded by the Council! And they aren’t all dead! It’s neat.

He could feel the presence of the numerous Jedi alive on this planet and it was refreshing, it made his head feel fuzzy, but it was refreshing all the same.

He looked over to his side where the view of Coruscant was clearer.

The familiar buildings lining the passages.

It did look mostly the same as the one they came from in their time, but it’s feeling was entirely different.

While theirs was already stained with despair, this had it on the horizon. He could feel the anticipation wanting to come over the edge.

While that should be terrifying, because there was still a Sith Lord in power, he could wipe out all the Jedi, etc., etc. Luke still interpreted this anticipation as an opportunity.

All the Jedi were dead. Everything was wiped out. There were so few force-sensitives left, and now the culture was everywhere in this time. His culture he could finally get in touch with.

He couldn’t help the smile that came to his face at that.

“This is amazing.” He whispered to Din who was at his side.

“You would take this situation as amazing Luke.” He said lovingly.

Luke just smiled up at him taking his hand as he turned to look back over at his surroundings.

“Oh finally.” He heard Master Windu mutter.

The Jedi temple had just came into view.

“Follow me, and don’t fall behind.” Windu said as they exited the hangar and made their way into the large temple.

He led the way as everyone stayed behind at least a few feet.

Anakin made a point to be held back, to fall in line with Obi-Wan.

“We are in a lot of trouble, he doesn’t do this usually.” Anakin said quietly, looking ahead at Mace with a fear showing on his features.

Obi-Wan just shook his head at him. He didn’t understand why Anakin was so paranoid they all hated him, they didn’t if that wasn’t clear. They did just royally mess up however.

Obi-Wan just settled with rolling his eyes at his grown Padawan.

“Where exactly are we going?” Luke decided to ask Master Windu. Brave soul.

“The Council Chambers. That is where the rest of the Council is waiting. It is just towards the top of the building.” He responded in kind.

Luke paused for a second, pushing his eyebrows together and squinting in thought, before turning to Leia.

“Isn’t that the Emperor’s throne room?”

Leia’s eyes widened and she looked at him worried as Luke ran into the back of Windu.

“The Emperor’s what is the Council chambers?” He asked them with an urgency to his voice.

Luke smiled at him.

“Have you learned nothing from today.” He heard Leia say from behind him.

“Ok, we will get to that.” Anakin said coming in front of Windu.

“This better be good.”

“Not really good...” Anakin answered trailing off as he realized Mace was not looking for him to answer the question.

“That was rhetorical.”

“Yeah ok.”

The group got many more strange looks from the Jedi as they passed through the halls before they finally made it to the Council Chamber doors.

Mace made his way into the room first and took his seat.

The others came in as Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Ahsoka each bowed.

The others hurried to follow their lead with this.

“Ah, made it finally, have you.” A gravelly voice said as from the front.

Master Yoda was smiling as they all entered the room, looking much too joyful about this entire thing.

Obi-Wan made his way to take his seat amongst the Council, Anakin glared at Obi-Wan’s back, and in response he shot him a smile as he sat down.

That left the others all standing in the middle of the room.

“You all ignored several messages from the Council and then proceeded to turn off the communication to the entire Resolute, then you show up with four strangers, one being a rogue Jedi.” Mace quickly cut to the chase.

“Wait a minute, nobody told you he was a rogue Jedi.” Anakin defended them.

“And we only ignored two calls.” Ahsoka said from beside him.

Mace silently wondered what he did to deserve this.

”This is a an out of character situation, even for you Skywalker.” 

“For me? Does that imply I’m special?” Anakin couldn’t help saying, but quickly went quiet at the look he was getting.

“He clearly has a lightsaber attached to his belt.” Mace tightly said, choosing to ignore Ahsoka and Anakin’s comments.

Luke looked down at his clearly visible lightsaber showing. He made an ‘O’ shape with his mouth and slowly put his hand over it in a failed attempt to cover it.

“It is too late for that now.” Din told him shaking his head as Luke straightened again.

Yoda chuckled slightly.

“No rogue Jedi he is, true Jedi indeed.” He corrected Mace.

“Master Yoda.” Luke kindly greeted his former Master.

“Master Luke Skywalker, pleasure to meet you it is.” Yoda responded in kind as everyone else’s eyebrows, and brow facial markings, shot up.

Mace’s eye definitely twitched at that.

Luke just smiled at him.

“Knight Skywalker? What did you do.” Windu said to the baffled Jedi.

“You give me too much credit Master Windu.” Anakin shook his head. Why did everyone seem to think this was his fault?

“Ask anyone here, this was not my fault.” He made sure to mention.

Ahsoka gave him a dubious look and Anakin knew she was about to make some smart-ass comment.

“Well it kinda is-“

“Snips.” Anakin said warningly as Ahsoka put her hands up.

“Don’t Snips me, I’m technically not wrong.”

And she wasn’t, if he never procreated this would have never happened.

“Tell us, could you, on how you and your friends found yourselves on the ship, Resolute, young Skywalker?” Yoda calmly asked as Mace looked like he was going to explode every time the name Skywalker was mentioned.

“Of course Master Yoda. While exploring a temple we had seemed to come into contact with a strange book, that promptly sent us back about 30 years to be as exact as I can. I mostly think we ended up on the Resolute because of the connection I have with Anakin.” Luke started to explain weirdly nonchalant. When did he get eloquent. And why was he so familiar with Yoda. Especially past Yoda?

“Good hypothesis this is.” Yoda said.

“I assume the connection with your father would have influenced the force’s will on direction.” Yoda chuckled at the thought.

Anakin will never understand how Yoda knows the things he does.

His eyes widened comically large as Ahsoka tried to cover her smile as she nodded to Rex who touched some button on his helmet, probably that karking recorder, just as Master Windu said...

“His what?”

They really did just get right to it then didn’t they. Anakin was internally panicking, a lot. As Ahsoka had to try not to laugh. Even Obi-Wan was sitting up there trying not to smile.

“How old are you?” Mace asked, clearly confused.

“Right yeah, 32.” Luke said joyfully.

“Right and Knight Skywalker, who is 22, is your father.”

Anakin gave them a tightlipped smile because he was definitely going to get lectured for attachments, which is also why he didn’t want the Council to know in the first place, but Yoda knew? Somehow? He should just stop questioning everything ever.

“Catch on you should Mace, open your mind you must, time-travel this ought to be.” Yoda continued to just chuckle.

Then something truly shocking happened.

An abrupt noise came from Windu at that moment from him...laughing.

Did Mace Windu just fucking snort?

“That is terrifying.” Anakin remarked whispering by Ahsoka’s head. She just nodded in agreement.

“Two Skywalkers, and he is your son?”

“Does this at least explain why we wouldn’t answer?” Anakin decided to bring up. It was mostly pointless to change the subject at this point.

“Can you make this make sense?”

“No definately not, that’s unreasonable, but we can say what we know.” Luke answered.

“Then please do.”

Luke paused because, well it was a lot of information. What should he even start with saying. Also why was he doing the talking, that clearly has not gone well so far. He was self-aware enough to know that he isn’t the best at telling... things.

He looked towards Leia hoping she could say anything better than what he probably would say.

She just sighed.

“We are from about 30 or 31 years in the future based on what I have gathered. We were in a temple that had more than likely belonged to early force-sensitives before Luke touched a book and we ended up on your cruiser.” She started saying the basic stuff. Which was smart that made sense.

“Maybe you should elaborate more on this book you mentioned twice now?” Mundi asked now throughly invested in this conversation.

“Yes that is what we can infer what sent us here, it was purely accidental. We have no idea how exactly us touching it threw us back.”

“I see, and you,” Mace said pointing towards Luke again, “are claiming to be Knight Skywalker’s son, and you think that is why you ended up in the same ship as him. Why not appear near your mother?” He reasoned.

That sneaky bitch, Anakin thought. He hoped to every all powerful force he did not say Padmé’s name because that really was irrelevant, the focus was just changed from him.

What if he gets kicked out? Or expelled? No matter how much he can understand leaving the Order, honestly he will admit he is petty and would rather resign after the War on his own terms than get kicked out.

Leia took over the conversation.

“Our birth mother was not force sensitive.” She said as explanation. Which that maybe could make sense.

“There are three Skywalkers here, as you said our?” Mace calmly said. Which was too calm.

“No.” Leia replied shortly.

He just blinked at her.

“You said our?” He said again.

“I know, Luke is my twin. He is not my father.” She explained.

That did kind of hurt hearing that on Anakin’s part. He hated the fact that one of his children would hate him... though given the circumstances he definitely was not a good person. Sith Lord thing.

His own eyes widened at that. Did they have to tell the Council he fell in their future because frankly Anakin would rather avoid that. Less scrutiny and all. Easy way out. He likes those.

“Don’t worry Master Windu, this conversation was confusing for us as well.” Ahsoka said still smiling, probably because Rex was still recording this entire thing. This was definitely going to spread around the 501st somehow.

“Not at all.” Master Yoda said.

“It is shocking they are siblings though isn’t? Almost like they have some kind of weird chemistry—“ Han started to say before Luke made a strangled noise in his throat.

“Why do you have to mention that to everyone ever.” Luke said.

Why were they back to this conversation. Like of all things they could be talking about right now-

“It is very fun to mention thank you.” Han replied.

“I know. That was literally in one of the first things you said to Din when I introduced him to you guys.”

He could see Din nod at that.

“Back on track please.” Leia said through clenched teeth.

“We should come to meetings they get in trouble in more often.” He heard Cody whisper to Rex.

“Yes there is something of much greater interest we should be discussing anyways.” Obi-Wan said much more seriously.

“Thanks to this group, we were able to identify the Sith Lord who is responsible for this entire War.” Obi-Wan said, gaining the attention of all the Masters in the room.

“Sure of this, you must be.” Yoda said much more serious.

“We are Masters.” Anakin confirmed with them.

“We are from a future where the Sith Lord was successful in creating the first Galactic Empire.” Luke told them while trying to gauge their reactions.

“The Emperor’s throne room...” Mace said to himself as he seemed to realize the true severity in those words.

”And the fate of the Jedi?” He asked.

”Uh. Not great.” Luke said, which was much more gently said compared to how he told the others.

Windu seemed to take a few minutes to think about all this information presented.

“This is very important information.” He eventually said.

“And you have proof that these people are from the future?” Windu said looking over at him. He was probably reluctant to believe the information.

Granted Anakin would have been as well if this was coming from strangers who claim to have time-travled. Hell time-travelers did tell them this and he did believe them.

Wait. Proof. They didn’t get proof exactly, but... oh. Isn’t them appearing from nowhere enough?

Anakin just looked at Windu with is mouth open, not knowing how to respond.

He sighed before elaborating.

“So you did at least a DNA test to prove that they really are from the future instead of just immediately taking their word for it then?” Mace Windu asked.

Now that was a very valid question. Though it is one that Anakin didn’t want to answer because no they did not.

“Ah, actually, you will find this funny, but we didn’t have to.” He tried to work around saying.

He could see Obi-Wan put his head in his hands.

Don’t act like you didn’t believe them as well. He tried to communicate at him, but he got no answer. They pretty much had a lot of proof.

“So you didn’t.” Mace clarified.

“No, no we didn’t, but it is a very believable story.” He tried to say.

Mace just shook his head.

Now Anakin was slightly offended.

“Excuse me, but even Master Yoda believes them. He even knew Luke’s name before anyone said it. Is there even a reasonable explanation for whatever that was?” Anakin continued to defend themselves.

“My word, not set in stone, it is. Very strange things can be. Eyes and hears not always reliable.” Yoda said as he shook his head.

What does that even mean? Anakin thought, as he tried not to internally scream. He didn’t imagine that though, Yoda did know? Maybe Luke saying he went insane in the future made sense he thought sourly.

He exchanged a look with Ahsoka trying to figure out what to say because Obi-Wan still had his head in his hands, but no Ahsoka was just trying not to kriffing laugh of all things. Not helpful.

At least she found this amusing.

“We would be happy to submit to something like a DNA test to validate our story Master Windu.” Leia said, a little coldly as well. At least it wasn’t directed at him this time.

“I will inform the Temple infirmary then. After that we may discuss this more deeply.”

Oh now that was going to take forever. Anakin knew for a fact that that machine in there took at least a day to run things out.

“I could contact Kix. He has tests that would work similarly and it would only take an hour.” Anakin informed them.

“Very well. You may all be dismissed for now. I expect you not to ignore us, and be back in an hour.”

“Thank you Master Windu.” Anakin ground out.

They all then shuffled out of the room.

As soon as they left Ahsoka started to snort.

“You looked like you were going to explode.” She laughed at him.

Obi-Wan came out of the doors then as well to meet them in the hallway.

“That went well.” He said.

“I tried my best.” Anakin said putting his hands up, as Ahsoka’s laughs faded into the background.

“Honestly the Council is kind of scary.” Luke said shaking his head.

”Sorcerers.” Din shook his head negatively.

“Maybe it’s a good thing they aren’t around anymore.” Han said before Leia smacked him in the shoulder.

“We are literally just outside where they are standing, you can’t say that.” She said.

“So? I’m not a Jedi.” Han said.

“Still we have to be polite-“

Anakin proceeded to ignore that.

”Shouldn’t we of at least told them who the Sith Lord was just in case?” Ahsoka pointed out.

”Probably.” He sighed.

“I’m going to contact Kix.” Anakin said. He really didn’t really want to think about repercussions for things that were definitely going to bite them in the ass. 

He brought out his comm link to connect to Kix, but it just kept going.

He tried again and it immediately hung up.

He turned back to face Obi-Wan who had his eyes closed.

“So I can’t connect to Kix.”

“Of course.” He said as he made to turn around to go back into the Council chambers.

Before that could happen Anakin’s comm started going off again.

Except it wasn’t Kix, it was...Hardcase?

“Oh, what is it now Anakin.” Obi-Wan sighed seeing his confused face.

“Nothing it’s just Hardcase is all.” He said before deciding to answer the call.

Anakin tapped the button and in came Hardcase’s anxious face.

That couldn’t be good.

“Hello Sir, we have a slight issue as we were going through the Resolute. You see Kix thought he left some supplies or something, I forget what was, but me, Jesse and him came to that hallway with this singular closet and there was this banging noise coming from it...” his voice drowned out.

Oh no.

Luke looked nervously towards Leia and the other’s from the future.

Was it the same closet?

“Anyways sir we opened it and-“

An angry beeping could be heard from behind Hardcase.

A certain blue-and-white distinctive droid came into view.

Oh, so it was the same closet.

“You have got to be kidding.” Din said under his breath.

Hardcase’s eyes widened in... fear?

“Oh no he’s back. Kix! You were supposed to shut him off!” Hardcase yelled at a clearly distressed Kix.

“I tried!”

“You try doing this!” Jesse’s voice followed.

Then Artoo 2 started beeping.

‘They left me on the ship, they were supposed to be fine, they left. There are imposters, these fuckers took my Master Luke. Who are you, you can’t be my old 501st. Not my Kix. No- the 66 virus took them.’

Artoo continued to beep as Hardcase could be seen trying to step out of the way as Artoo brought his taser out and proceeded to chase Jesse in the background as Kix followed.

“Yeah as you can see he is being-“ another dodge from the droid.

“Extremely hostile.”

‘Imposters-‘

Another shocking noise and a curse from Jesse could be heard as Hardcase grimaced.

“Ouch, anyways I thought I saw you with the little buddy earlier, but no, no he was here and.. mad.” He shuffled again as a shrieking noise came from Artoo again.

“Yeah you should come quick.”

Anakin couldn’t help but pause. Why did things keep getting worse by the second.

“Will do Hardcase.” Was all Anakin could manage to say as he looked suspiciously towards where his Artoo was standing by Ahsoka.

The call then ended with that.

“We should all go down and sort that out right.” He said towards the group.

“Was that our Artoo?” Han asked what everyone was thinking.

“I didn’t think he would follow us down. Did he find the same book we had somehow?” Luke asked.

“He was alone on the ship, he’s probably confused.” Leia said sympathetically.

“We just had to bring him, everywhere we go, he goes.” Din grumbled.

“At least it isn’t Goldenrod.” Han said as Din nodded in agreement.

“We should probably go before Artoo 2 kills Kix, Jesse and Hardcase.” Ahsoka said hurried, fully aware that he probably could.

“How rude of future you Artooey.” Ahsoka scolded the droid.

‘Not my fault’ he beeped back at her.

Anakin just blinked at the droid. The apparently future version definitely was...well the same honestly, but this was not good.

“Wait, I thought you hooked him up to his charging port, turned off.” Han pointed out to Luke.

Luke looked abashed his he put his hand behind his neck.

“Well I did...but I gave him an override incase I get injured, which happens a lot when I go off alone.” He explained.

This was probably going to get more interesting.

So much for that proof for now.

Chapter Text

It was just a few hours ago when Palpatine sensed the problem.

The force is something he sought to master and understand in every way. He had to know everything that happened in every second of every day. He needed everything to be just right for his plan to suceed.

And his plan was on track. He could feel the dark readiness in the force. He knew his own readiness. The people were terrified of this war, they wanted it to end, and they were only in the first half of it, there was so much suffering to come yet.

People were so trusting when desperate it was almost sad. Yet how could he care, he just needed his tools, for his Empire.

Reiterating that this needs to go exactly as he intends. He will have his Sith Empire, and he knew he would have it,

It was literally going to happen...

Until the force had contorted.

And for the first time in a while there was a doubt.

Sidious knew that this had originated near the Outer Rim, yet he felt it so strongly.

This contortion, turned to a clouded substance he couldn’t make out, and then it turned into a mass of overwhelming... light.

Such a bright interlude of light and good, in the force.

Something he hadn’t felt since he first got his hands on the Skywalker boy just 13 years ago.

And strangest of all this had come from where Skywalker was, yet it wasn’t him.

It could affect him though, and the boy turning would be important for Sidious. He would need a capable apprentice for his Empire after all, and if the boy wasn’t on his side he could easily be a threat. Sidious thought he should be more useful at his side rather than dead by his hand.

And if he couldn’t get him he would make sure he was dead.

He could only feel the presence of this threat for a few seconds after the initial wave.

This presence covered itself. Perhaps a cloak for better wording, and vanished from his senses.

It was strange, this occurrence. Almost intriguing.

Though most importantly it was still a threat .

A threat could not be tolerated at all.

He would have to take care of this.

He spent the next few hours doing his form of meditation, yet he could not yet get another glimpse of the presence; not one.

If this presence was a humanoid being, they must truly be skilled in cloaking. Probably some sort of Master mind in the force, and highly trained.

Sidious did not like the prospect this was turning out to be.

“I am the king of flying.” Anakin said cockily as they asked who would be flying them back to the Resolute.

Ahsoka raised her eyebrow.

“What do you mean? You are maybe the King of crashing at best.” She remarked, then her eyes lit up with an idea.

“Can I drive this time?” She asked.

“Shouldn’t we just focus on getting to an Artoo that more than likely time traveled and is trying to kill Hardcase, Kix, and Jesse?” Obi-Wan asked shaking his head.

“Well that just means you are not flying, it would take ages.” Ahsoka teased him as she ran ahead.

“I am careful and I am not borderline self-destructive.” Obi-Wan corrected. “There is a difference and I am not slow.”

Anakin turned back shaking his head at the group to let them know Obi-Wan was lying.

“Slow flying is boring.” Luke agreed.

“Luke you just have a genuine disregard for self preservation.” Han said, and Luke wished he could deny it, but he has gotten better at least.

“You say that like you didn’t once owe debts to Jabba, and constantly used to fight with Leia, like, constantly. That is self destructive.”

“He also argues with everyone in general.” Din added.

“Well...you, Mando, did jump into a krayt dragon, you were also a bounty hunter.” Han said.

“Smuggler.” Luke directed at Han in defense of Din.

Han just pointed at Luke, “At least I never jumped off a ledge from Cloud City, yards down with out knowing there was an end.” He replied in rebuttal.

“You jumped off cloud city?” Ahsoka asked disbelievingly.

“Did I hear jump into a krayt dragon?” Anakin also asked.

“Yes, but I had a feeling, the alternative was worse.” Luke said.

“You also offered for us to turn you in for your bounty because we needed money.” Leia also acknowledged.

“You would have rescued me!” Luke argued, “We did need the money, and we did not go with that plan anyways, I was willing to risk it.” He said.

“Your life is the most important thing.” Din made to correct him.

“We literally just said you jumped into the mouth of a krayt dragon.” Luke said before pausing, “But thank you and I love you.”

“And you aren’t dead?” Ahsoka asked still skeptical.

Luke looked himself up and down.

“I mean not yet. I didn’t even have any injuries.” Luke said proudly, but then looked down at his hand. “At least not from those things directly anyways...”

“You should prove it, jumps are easy, but off Cloud City?” She said as a dare.

Luke just shrugged, he had gotten comfortable jumping from absurdly high things and on to them, “Ok, I don’t see why not-“

“Nobody will be proving it.” Leia said wanting to nip that in the bud. She really didn’t want to even know how they would go about proving that, but Luke and Ahsoka would probably find a way.

“Rule 13 please.” Obi-Wan added, directed towards Ahsoka

“I thought that only applied to Rex?” Ahsoka asked disappointment leaking into her voice.

“Why would that only apply to Rex?” He asked.

“Because you made it when Rex was thrown off the bridge/wall thing.” she said slowly.

“I do not care as long as the rule still stands.” Rex said raising his hands.

“I can’t believe I have to say this.” Obi-Wan said quietly to himself.

“Ok fine,” Obi-Wan sighed, “Rule 13 is now being modified so that nobody can throw anyone off any cliffs or surfaces with the force or by any physical means.”

“He gave permission though, he agreed to me blindfolding him and pushing him off a ledge.” Ahsoka argued not seeing why they couldn’t do it.

“Wait, when did I agree to that?” Luke asked.

Ahsoka blinked at him.

“How else would you prove it?” She asked him.

“I dunno. I just figured I’d jump somewhere...probably off something high.” He said.

“Yeah no, no doing that. You do not need to break your legs.” Din said to him.

Ahsoka sighed, while Luke just nodded his head as they continued walking, “Fair enough, good point.”

They finally made it to the temple hangar and Ahsoka stopped in her tracks.

“We are taking the Twilight? I thought we wanted to get there quick. Weren’t you just repairing it?”

Anakin gave Ahsoka a mock glare.

“You know that hurts my feelings. Besides what else would we take that could fit us all. I own this ship.” He reasoned as they approached Anakin’s ship.

“You probably just wanted to show it off.” Ahsoka said shaking her head.

“Leave me alone.” Anakin said quickly while walking closer to the ship.

“Nice ship.” Din said. Luke couldn’t tell if he was being sarcastic or not, because that is coming from the guy with a ship that literally exploded and said he ‘rebuilt’ it. Which if a ship could look sick, it would be Din’s Razor Crest ‘memorial’ ship.

“Thank you.” Anakin said oblivious to Luke’s thoughts, as he opened the hatch.

It was a little cramped and Din stayed standing as they were in the ship.

Anakin sat down in the pilot’s seat and started to set everything up.

It only took a few moments before they took off.

“We really should discuss what we are planning on doing when we reslolve this Artoo situation.” Obi-Wan said offhandedly, as he secured himself, probably more than needed, into his seat.

“Like what?” Anakin asked as he turned around in his seat.

Obi-Wan tensed up, “Turn back around now, please.”

Anakin rolled his eyes, but did as asked, as Obi-Wan let out a breath that he was apparently holding.

“Like, figuring out what to do with the Chancellor for starters.” Obi-Wan said.

Anakin seemed to sink in himself at the mention of the Emperor just a little, but it was almost unnoticeable. He just seemed quiet even though he just spoke.

“I still think-“ Han started.

“We need a real plan, the earlier discussion does not count.” Obi-Wan quickly said, shaking his head.

“I mentioned food-lodging-“

“Ahsoka.” Obi-Wan sighed, cutting her off as well, and she just rolled her eyes.

“You mention something then.”

Obi-Wan seemed to stop and think.

“See not so easy.” She taunted

“Assassination would be easiest.” Din added.

Ahsoka nodded at him, “He seems qualified enough to say that.”

“He isn’t.” Leia assured.

“Just hear me out,” Ahsoka said putting her hands up, in response to Obi-Wan’s doubting look, “I propose that maybe a controlled shock to his face would do the trick.”

She was met with a disappointed stare from Obi-Wan.

“Well she is your Padawan alright.” Obi-Wan remarked looking over at Anakin.

“Oh please Obi-Wan, you say that as if you are not Anakin in a different font.” Ahsoka shot back.

Obi-Wan looked absolutely scandalized, while Anakin just smirked at him, effectively taking him out of his weird stupor. At least somewhat anyways.

“Shock him with what.” Han asked actually hearing her out.

“I dunno.”

“Right, now realistically we can not just storm his office and shock him, or kill him.” Leia said, more so leaning to Obi-Wan’s comments.

“I agree. Thank you. We need a valid type of evidence that he is the Sith Lord you are all accusing him of being.” Obi-Wan said.

“Or we need evidence before we kill him.” Din clarified.

“Isn’t my emotional trauma enough evidence?” Luke asked.

“No.”

“Ok yeah thats valid.” He said.

“No administering a ‘controlled shock,’ causing him to choke, more time travel, or other assassination methods.” Obi-Wan listed off every single of the previous ideas mentioned.

”Please, this is like the third time we are having this same discussion, can this one be productive?” Obi-Wan stressed.

“Ok I hear you, no doing those things, at least not until we can do it with out being arrested.” Ahsoka amended.

“Dear force help me.” Obi-Wan said.

Ahsoka sighed as she leaned back into her seat, before pointing at Obi-Wan’s chest.

“The Chancellor hurts us all in the future, you die, Master, you, Anakin, and all the Jedi actually die. I...I don’t think we should just let that up to chance...” She snapped, allowing her joking attitude to fall.

“Snips...” Anakin said, a pained look now adorning his features.

“You turn to the dark side because of him. Skyguy...I know when you try to avoid thinking about things, this act you put on of indifference doesn’t work, and I know you trust the Chancellor, but actually think about what he is doing, think about how that makes you feel too.” She said with a finality.

“I don’t want to be the last one of us, I don’t want to loose the clones, Rex, or Cody to some chip. If killing him allows that to happen, then I am ok with that. I don’t want to risk us all because we didn’t take harsh measures.”

Everyone sat in silence after her announcement.

“...We will take that all into account, Ahsoka. I assure you, we and the Council, will take all the precautionary measures needed.” Obi-Wan assured her.

“She does have a point.” Han put in awkwardly.

Some peace was met between them, before Anakin coughed, as he was so great with emotions.

“We...we are here.”

Luke bobbed his head in his seat, “Hopefully Artoo didn’t kill anyone this time.”

“This time?”

“It’s a long story.”

“Not suprised.”

When they arrived to the hangar Din wasn’t really sure what he was expecting. Granted everything that had happened today he wasn’t expecting whatsoever.

His plan for the day literally just included searching this temple, which he didn’t even really want to do, but Luke just looked so excited and it was hard to say no to that. Then they would pick up Grogu and go home. Maybe Luke would try to get them all to meditate together again, but Din found himself enjoying that now...so all in all that would have been a good damn day.

Then the book happened, and that made so much sense, but he was going with it because no matter how much Luke explained to him he didn’t think he would ever understand the force...

Anyways, the point being this was all unexpected, and how the fuck does that droid do so much damage?

“Thank the holy force!” One of the clones came running up to them as soon as they landed.

“What did we miss between from when we last talked to now?” Anakin asked him, probably in reference to the state of the area around.

As they started talking Din took a moment to look over the hangar.

The first thing that came to mind was that several things were on fire. Which probably had to do with Artoo.

How did Artoo, their Artoo, even get out of the Resolute? Wasn’t he on the ship.

“Did you loose him, Hardcase?” Obi-Wan asked them taking in the view as well raising his eyebrow.

“Well...I didn’t, the little buddy just zipped right out, but he is still around...somewhere, watching and waiting ... I know Jesse was last with him.” The clone said surveying around.

Two more clones started approaching in that moment and the one, Hardcase, let his arms fall to his sides with a slap.

“You lost him again?”

So he must be Jesse.

“I don’t know why you had us chase after him, you should have.” The one with a tattoo on his head said in retaliation. It said ‘A good droid is a dead one’, and Din could appreciate that.

“Kix is right, you love fighting clankers...” Jesse said.

“Well... I don’t want to hurt him.” He said sticking his chin up, and Kix gave him a look. Hardcase avoided his eyes before shrugging.

“...he is scarier than a clanker-” He relented, but Leia sighing loudly interrupted him.

“Oh my gods, he is just an astromech.” She said, as she stepped into the front to get a better look around, she then pushed past the clones in the way and started to walk around the hangar.

He saw the clone’s eyes widen at her, but made no move to stop her.

Han just sighed and went to follow Leia as everyone else also exited in turn.

It really didn’t take long though, the droid must have heard them or something...

“Oh there he is.” Luke stated quickly coming off the ramp and heading towards the direction of the little shit.

“I wouldn’t do that...” One of the other clones said as Luke calmly walked straight up to him.

The droid buzzed excitedly as Luke greeted him.

“Yeah, I’m sorry.” Luke said as he began to greet his droid.

Artoo continued to beep at him in warning, while Luke continued to calm him down and let him know they are not threats.

“He does look exactly the same...” He heard Ahsoka say in wonder. It was strange seeing her as curious kid and not a mildly terrifying grown woman.

Artoo whipped right around Luke beeping even more in alarm.

“Yeah, should have mentioned time travel.” Luke said to Artoo as he continued to look at everyone.

He then set his sights on Anakin.

In that moment Din wished to any all powerful being, god, force, or whatever that he had learned how to interpret binary, because the face that man made as Artoo whirred at him would be forever ingrained in his memory. In a good way too. Even after the revelations of him becoming a Sith Lord and everyone basically dying didn’t make him that white.

Anakin slowly raised his hands as Artoo started towards him.

“I know...I know that now.” Anakin tried to placate the droid, but he just beeped furiously in turn.

This was nice. This...this was nice.

Chapter Text

Anakin just stood there, stark still. He knew the color drained from his face, but he was just taken off guard.

He expected maybe some hostility in this situation, given the fact Artoo was already attacking people, but he honestly was shocked at the fact Artoo threatened to castrate him.

How did he know how to do that in so much detail? It was so much detail.

‘You turned to the dark side you nerf herder. I will kill you myself and rip your-’ He beeped at him.

“I know...I know that now.” Anakin started to defend himself.

‘ You cause every one to suffer, I know everything-‘

“I am sure you do, I didn’t turn yet, I won’t now, trust me Artoo.” He continued to say.

‘ Nobody thought you would 30 years ago either.” He beeped pessimistically.

“I do not know what to say to that. Other than points I already made,” Anakin said, still hands in the air, to show peace.

“Artoo, trust me. I am me, not evil me.” Anakin tried to spell out.

This was not one if his prouder moments. He never really expected to be groveling with his droid, but here they were.

Future Artoo stopped cursing him out, so he would take that as a good sign for now.

“I have never seen him this upset with you, sir.” Rex commented.

“Thanks Rex.” Anakin replied sarcastically.

“We good?” He turned back around to ask the future Artoo.

‘ No.’ He sent back.

“Ok, ok. That’s understandable, I do not know what I did to you, but we should try and get along, come on please Artoo.” Anakin asked. He didn’t want his closet droid, who could be considered a good friend as well, to be mad at him too.

‘ No, if you know of the future then you know what you did.’

Anakin just sighed, but nodded his head at him. He wished he could punch himself in the face.

“Not all of us speak binary you know, and I am curious what he is saying too.” Ahsoka said.

“Nothing important.” Anakin said sourly.

‘ You lied to her .’

“She does not need to know the details of castration.” Anakin snipped back.

“What’s castration?” Ahsoka asked latching on to that.

“It’s when a person-“ Din started to say as he began to motion with his hands, before Obi-Wan coughed loudly.

“Innocent ears.” He said while gesturing to Ahsoka.

“I don’t have ears.” She said in turn, she had her head cocked to the side still ever curious.

“Same point, you are already raised in a war, you do not need to know that as well.” Obi-Wan said.

“What if I need to use it?” Ahsoka said.

“She does have a point.” Leia nodded, as Ahsoka smiled at her.

“See what you did.” Anakin said towards the droid that held no shame.

“Artoo please be nice.” Luke asked him.

‘ Fine .’ The droid responded back.

“You listen to him? Even he doesn’t listen to me now.” Anakin said slightly indignant as he pointed at his own droid.

‘I listen to Ahsoka. ’ Artoo, his Artoo, said.

“That isn’t me.” Anakin said confused.

‘ Right, she is nicer. I missed her.’ The Artoo from the future said.

“I saved you from floating forever in an asteroid field before.” Anakin argued.

“Well...you had to do that because you didn’t memory swipe your droid like any other person.” Obi-Wan pointed out.

“That is just another reason why I am nice to him.” Anakin shrugged.

“We still need to get proof and meet back with the council, sirs,” Cody put in from the side, “We only have 20 minutes to get back.”

“Thank you Cody.” Obi-Wan said as he turned to Kix.

“Kix, that is why we tried to contact you in the first place, you have tests that work quickly for DNA analysis?” Obi-Wan asked, the very confused man.

“Oh yeah, I set them....out....here.” He said, his words slowed down though as he looked to the distance and sighed.

“They were there.” He said while pointing over at a, currently burning box.

“Oh no.” Ahsoka snorted. “You’re in trouble.” She said to Anakin.

He pinched his nose as he looked back over to the droid.

“What was the reason. What could have been your reason?” He asked.

The droid seemed to stare into his soul as he slowly brought out his arm, which had the equivalent of a blow torch.

Anakin pressed his lips together and nodded.

“Thank you, now I know how you did it, I asked why though.” He said, while noting inside his head to never modify Artoo with one of those.

“When did he get that?” Leia asked, seemingly surprised as she looked to Luke accusingly.

“I did not give him that for malicious reasons, it was just for working on ships, I don’t like holding mine, it’s always sticky.” He explained.

“He’s always had a blow torch?” Din asked, while facing the droid now, more on edge than he was.

Cody was shaking his head over at the side because they were getting side tracked again, while Rex patted his back sympathetically.

Artoo then lit the torch a few times in Din’s direction causing the intimidating Mandalorian to take a few steps back in surprise.

Artoo made the equivalent of a laughing noise, and the next thing Anakin knew Din had out a weapon.

Luke, Leia, and Han didn’t seem surprised by this, so Anakin wasn’t too worried for his droid, besides he was being awfully rude, but this was probably a normal occurrence for them.

“I may barely use the Darksaber, but I will use it on you.” Din threatened the droid, pulling the sword off his side.

“What is that?” Obi-Wan asked, probably more startled than anything.

“‘That’ is Din, you already met.” Luke said.

“I was referring to the Darksaber.”

“So you knew what it was.” Luke asked, as if he trapped Obi-Wan in his own words.

“What- nevermind, you are the Mand’alor of your time?” Obi-Wan questioned very shocked.

“What’s a Mand’alor?” Anakin asked, very lost.

“I know you learned about this,” Obi-Wan said to Anakin before turning back to Din, “You all are just now mentioning this?”

“It’s not important.” Din said putting it away, but still probably glaring at the droid.

“Not impo- Not important -“ Obi-Wan stuttered.

“I kind of thought we would be the ones to break him.” Ahsoka said to Anakin.

“Yeah, me too.” Anakin shrugged.

Obi-Wan was still shaking his head, “You rule Mandalore.”

“Technically.” Din said, not really appreciating the questions from Obi-Wan.

At least Anakin now knew what that meant now.

“Are you not ruled by the duchess?” He asked urgently.

“Who is that?” Din asked in turn.

“Who is that? Duchess Satine I mean.” Obi-Wan asked.

“Are you worried about your lady friend?” Anakin teases, while Obi-Wan waved his hand dismissively at him.

Anakin was a little offended, “You were less worked up when you found out I killed you.”

Obi-Wan looked at him annoyed, before looking at Din with an urgency.

“Bo-Katan has the main leadership position if that’s what you want to call it.” Din shrugged, “I just go along with it, I didn’t mean to get this.”

That was not the information Obi-Wan was looking for apparently either.

“Sir, we have 15 minutes.” Cody said again.

“Yes Cody thank you.” Obi-Wan said much more calmly than he was just a few seconds ago.

Cody was like his comfort object almost Anakin mused. Which also is maybe a good thing then he was here then, because Anakin could swear a vein on Obi-Wan’s forehead was threatening to pop from stress anytime anyone else opened their mouths.

“Well this was all pointless.” Anakin said instead.

He much more preferred Kix to take care of his health than the Jedi temple. Master Che was great and all, but he would have liked to get this area over with. He was not great with doctors.

“Thank you Artoo, we are glad you could join us.” He said to the future droid, sarcasm layered through his words.

Anakin wondered if this is how Obi-Wan felt on a daily basis with him. Or maybe how Windu felt about all each of them.

“How did you know to get here anyways?” Luke asked, much more nicely.

‘I knew I had to come looking when your tracker gave no response-‘

“I have a tracker?” Luke asked, his eyes widening in surprise.

‘ Of course’

“How did you even out one on me? In me?” He asked as he seemed to look himself over, pulling at his clothes.

‘You sleep like the dead’ Came the simple response.

“You put a tracker on him?” Din asked, probably ready to fight the droid.

‘ It was long before you came around. You aren’t special’ He said, even though the Mandalorian couldn’t understand.

This made Anakin seem to realize things.

“Did you do that to me?” He asked alarmed. He wasn’t sure if he did, but he would at least like to be in the know.

‘Of course I had to keep tabs on you, but then you had to loose your limbs.’

Anakin looked over at his Artoo, his at least, accusingly and mildly scandalized.

‘Have you met you.’ He beeped to his accusatory glance.

“Where is it?” He asked.

‘ It’s in your prosthetic, relax, no surgery was done.’

That did make him feel a little better, though he did wonder what it was. He knew his arm well.

“I feel violated.” Luke said plainly.

“At least he didn’t put trackers in all of us.” Han laughed as he looked to Artoo.

Artoo stood there suspiciously still, and weirdly quiet.

Han’s laughing slowed down.

“You didn’t put trackers in all of us right?”

Leia couldn’t help but shake her head at whatever was going on.

She was trying to think of a way to go about things. They couldn’t get a DNA test for proof from this Kix, but they now did have Artoo.

They could prove that they did have two identical R2D2 droids, in addition to that Artoo would have a large data bank of memory from the last 30 years.

He would have information about everything that has happened during the Clone Wars as well, as Anakin mentioned that Artoo’s memory was never wiped.

Unless it was after the Clone Wars, but Leia hardly thought that was the case, as Artoo clearly remembered everyone in this time period.

He would also have data from the war against the Empire.

He would have information and proof that Palpatine was the Emperor. . .

He would have proof of the Death Star’s existence.

Her own eyes widened at that. She felt her heart start to beat faster. She had no idea if whatever they did in this time period would affect their own. She had no idea if they would remember this occasion, or if this created a new divergence and acted as another dimension of sorts.

They could still stop the Death Star from ever being able to operate here. They could save this Alderaan. She could at least save a Alderaan. Her parents didn’t have to die here.

She had no idea why this was all suddenly hitting her now. It just felt so much more real. It actually felt attainable.

She saw Luke look towards her in concern. She probably let her surprise show through their bond.

“Artoo is our proof.” She said to Luke.

This brought everyone else’s attention away from the arguments with Artoo about trackers.

She saw Obi-Wan nod as he put his hand to his chin in thought.

“That would be sufficient enough evidence.” He confirmed, “His memory banks would be full of information.”

Leia looked towards Luke, “Does he still have an old copy of the Death Star plans?”

“The Death what?” The clone Hardcase asked.

She waved him off as she looked towards Luke again who seemed to be thinking.

“He should...He also has old recording’s of the Emperor’s speeches.” Luke seemed to realize with her.

”Emperor?” Kix asked.

“I’m still lost on Death Star.” Hardcase said, as Jesse nodded with him.

“I’ve been lost since time travel was mentioned.”

“Welcome to our world.” Rex said sardonically  

“So we have our proof then? We only have 10 minutes to report back and the ride takes 15 minutes.” Cody said.

“It appears we do Cody.” Obi-Wan said.

Cody kept fidgeting with his fingers as they were going back towards the temple.

He would be honest and not deny that the Masters amongst the Council did make him nervous. They had given them all an hour to take a simple blood test, then if everything had gone according to plan, they would be fifteen minutes early to the temple.

If only he could keep this crew on track.

Cody swears that they all have the attention span of a loth cat.

“I just want to know where my tracker is.” Han said, still arguing with the droid from the future.

“He neither confirms or denies anything.” General Skywalker said, still translating, and enabling the argument.

“You mentioned a Death star?” General Kenobi said looking towards Leia, more or less ignoring the pointless argument, “May I ask what that is?”

Cody could admit he was curious as well. It sounded ominous enough, anything would with a name like that.

“It was a horribly inhumane machine made by the Empire...it could do monstrous things...It had the ability to wipe out an entire planet- It did wipe out an entire planet.” Leia explained while staring off, as if reminiscent of the event. Han came up, away from his earlier argument, to place a comforting hand on his wife’s shoulder.

Cody’s eyes widened as he looked towards Rex, to see if he was hearing this correctly.

In all his experience with war, he never could have imagined a weapon like that.

Rex faced him as well, and showed equivalent surprise.

Commander Tano seemed to be thinking of something, “Is it around now?” She asked.

“We don’t know the specifics of that, if anything it would be in the early building stages, it won’t be functional until about 20 years from now.” She explained.

“What planet blew up?” General Skywalker asked bluntly. Cody saw General Kenobi nudge him in the side at that.

“...Alderaan.” She answered anyways, probably to caught up to care about his words, she still managed to a glare at him though.

That surprised Cody even more. That was a core world, and a devastating event like that would not go unannounced to the public. It truly did seem to be an irredeemable evil act.

“Artoo has recordings of the super weapon? Or evidence if it’s existence then?” General Kenobi asked.

Leia nodded her head, “He has it’s plans, as Luke said, he also has old recordings of the Emperor.”

At least they would be going back into the jaws of the Council with evidence. It could also be grounds for arrest if they uncovered and traced the building of the Death Star to the Chancellor.

Cody seemed to relax at that. Ever since the information of the chips came to light, he had been on edge. The thought of betraying the Jedi seemed so ludicrous...

He would have betrayed General Kenobi. He likes to think that maybe future him fought off the chip, but that didn’t seem to be the case.

“At least we have a plan now.” General Skywalker said.

“Yes, and that wasn’t hard at all.” General Kenobi rolled his eyes.

“What happens after?” Commander Tano asked.

Everyone seemed to pause at that. What would they do after?

“Good question, and how do we get back to our time? Can we do that?” Luke asked with that, uncertainty crossed his features at the prospect. Din grabbed Luke’s hand as well.

“Its more than likely this divergence is an alternate timeline.” Leia mused.

At the questioning looks she went on to elaborate, “Well we still remember our lives, it isn’t like a grand father paradox as we changed a lot already...It is just what came to mind.”

Han sighed.

“Then why are we doing all this work?”

“That is what you are thinking about?” Leia asked as he just shrugged.

Cody wondered what he would do after all this was resolved.

Frankly he had no idea....

‘You need to get help.’ The future Artoo beeped at Anakin as they were on this topic.

“What? No I don’t.” He said.

‘You just need mental help, a therapist if you will.’  Artoo 2 said.

‘The duplicate is not wrong.’ His Artoo said in affirmation.

“I do not like this.” Anakin said to both of them. They were ganging up on him now.

“Anakin eyes in front.” Obi-Wan reminded him.

“I won’t crash.” Anakin said back.

“Famous last words.” Ahsoka called.

‘My Anakin was long groomed for his role-‘ The future Artoo continued to say.

“I am not being groomed.” Anakin shushed him.

‘ Shut up, anyways he was long groomed for his place at the wrinkly asshole’s side, the fucking disgusting- ’

“You know your language got much more vulgar.” Anakin said dryly.

‘I am vulgar too .’ His Artoo beeped, and Anakin thought slightly jealous.

‘Bitch. ’ he added on to prove his point.

“Thank you for that,” Anakin said, “This is why you always argue with Threepio you know, I could instill a filter on your binary that you are able to use, I am sure he would appreciate that very much.” he threatened even though he would never go through with it because Artoo would honestly probably find a way around it, and taking away Artoo’s freedom is not necessarily a great plan.

“Wait you do know C-3PO? Is that the Threepio you are referring too?” Luke asked, as Din said, “I am not surprised anymore.

Anakin just nodded, “I gave him to Padmé as a wedding present. I got Artoo in return...not a fair deal as I think about it.” Anakin explained, though he did find joy in not having to hide his relationship anymore, it was nice.

“Threepio never mentioned anything about the past.” Leia thought out loud, “His memory was wiped after the war I think.”

Anakin now felt a little bad for the droid. He really was a good companion no matter how annoying he got sometimes. Maybe he was biased because he built him, but in a way the golden droid always reminded him of his roots, and his mom.

“Wait. Why didn’t Artoo ever mention knowing you all?” Luke asked, which made Anakin pause too.

“True, you never thought to say anything?” Leia asked him.

‘ You didn’t ask .’ He said plainly

“Yeah, but I did.” Luke said indignantly.

‘Not important now.’  Artoo replied

Anakin saw the hangar come into view.

“It is not important now.” He said, as he flew them into the hangar.

Hopefully Windu wouldn’t take issue with the fact they didn’t do as asked again.

Chapter Text

So turns out, Master Windu would take issue with the fact that they didn’t do as asked... again.

“So you mean to tell us. . . that the eight of you,” Master Windu said while gesturing in their direction.

“Let that single droid,” he now pointed towards Artoo, “Set almost and entire hangar on fire, including medical kits that will cost hundreds of credits.”

“I mean, that wasn’t really the take away from the story-“ Anakin started.

“Then you come back here,” Windu interrupted, “Late, might I add, and you didn’t even get the proof you said you would.” He finished with a small frown on his face.

“Well we did get proof, and it’s good proof.” Anakin said pointing to the two droids. They were each standing to the side, as they beeped in greetings.

“Yes...your droid time traveled.” Windu said skeptically.

“They are completely identical, except the one to the right holds over 30 years of additional information in his memory banks, dating years ahead of our own time .” Obi-Wan said helpfully.

“Yeah, what he said.” Anakin agreed pointing out his thumb.

‘I know about every single time you complained about the Council, and how you said you basically more powerful than them. Embarrassing for you really because you were defeated, and left limbless and scorched by Obi-Wan .’ The droid almost cackled.

Anakin paused for a moment. He finally thought they were done with this. 

“...definitely a lot of information.” Anakin said out loud slowly, still very hung up on those words.

“He what?” He couldn’t help but ask while turning towards the droid. What was his need to even say that. 

‘ Not now. ’ Artoo said joyfully, knowing he would get that reaction.

“No?” Anakin asked. How was he supposed to brush past that. Artoo was having too much fun with this. Way too much. That isn’t something that is funny? 

He took a breath to center himself again. He would not think about that right now. He could work on his anger issues, also if he processed that now on top of everything else, he may not be mentally sane any longer.

He knew he sparked people’s curiosity with that, but he did see Luke raise his eyebrow.

“Ben cut off your limbs? You know I always wondered about that.” He blurted, while Anakin tried, and failed shush him.

At least they didn’t know who Ben was. He still had that. That one thing.

”I cut off your limbs?” Obi-Wan then asked shocked.

He just lost that one thing.

Anakin wished he could shove a sock in Obi-Wan’s stupid, bearded, ginger fucking mouth. He would hold this over his head whenever he decides to lecture him about keeping quiet.

“No, of course not, that was never said.” Anakin said while awkwardly laughing at the Masters, snapping himself out of that. He was definitely going to ask about that later, though, it probably had to do with the Sith Lord thing. No big deal. It’s fine, everything is fine.

“While Artoo may be a compulsive liar ,” He said while giving the droid a pointed look, “He does have very valuable information, that can probably save of us all.” Anakin shrugged.

”Smooth.” Ahsoka muttered.

”Artoo does not lie...He withholds information.” Leia said quietly looking towards her droid, not wanting to give the Council the idea that he may be lying about anything.

“He has information regarding the Sith Lord that was mentioned earlier?” Plo asked, saving them all from continuing his lost limbs topic.

Wait when did Master Plo get here?

Anakin could have sworn he was deployed.

Were people showing up because of this?

”Master Plo?” He asked stupidly.

Plo just chuckled at him.

“What? I heard of this mess from Commander Wolffe. How could I miss it?” He said while laughing, “We were not far, besides I was worried about Mace here and his blood pressure.”

“I knew that this would spread everywhere.” Anakin hissed while looking over at Ahsoka accusingly.

She looked at him innocently, “Don’t look at me, I did nothing wrong, nor have I ever done anything wrong.” She said.

Now that really was such a blatant lie. Anakin wasn’t sure if he should be more concerned with how she kept a straight face while doing that, or the fact she somehow had the audacity to say that.

“Can we all please get a back to the topic of the Sith Lord, that is currently dictating our fates, as well as the fate of the galaxy as we know it.” Windu said, with a hint of frustration in his voice. 

Maybe he and Cody could start a club for people who are sick of them constantly changing topics.

As Anakin thought about it, he was almost positive they would not be the only two to join a club like that. It could be fun if they don’t all die.

“Apologies, Masters. We should have informed you on the identity of the Sith Lord in advance.” Obi-Wan said sobering up.

The Council glanced around at each other, with looks Anakin could not even begin to place, before nodding towards Windu like their spokesman.

The man just sighed.

“After hearing what you all said in the last meeting we did come together to try and get an idea, or brace ourselves for the answer. Especially after hearing the fate of the Jedi,” Windu paused again.

“Essentially...We know it had to be a person of high power to be declared Emperor. So we came to the conclusion of it being the Chancellor.” He replied, looking much older than he should. The rest of the Council nodded with him.

“How did you already know?” Anakin asked shocked.

This should be shocking.

He was shocked.

The Chancellor was always a good man.

It’s shocking.

How did they put that together that quickly.

“You say that as if he hasn’t been showing dictator-like-traits this entire time.” Windu said rubbing his face.

“Oh leave him alone, he has trouble differing kindness and manipulation.” Ahsoka supplied, looking over at Anakin sympathetically, after saying the most backhanded defense he had ever fucking heard.

He managed to glare at her, and she just smirked at him, definitely knowing what she did.

“Sorry I am a trusting person.” Anakin quipped back, though he was getting used to people calling him out at this point, and maybe it was for the better, but it would not fail to hurt his pride.

“You really aren’t though-“ Obi-Wan pitched in.

“I am trusting enough to certain people.” Anakin corrected, and he was. He trusted Padmé...Ahsoka when she was being nice, and other people. Obi-Wan sometimes.

He could trust.

“To wrong people.” Ahsoka mused.

“You're right, I trust you-“ Anakin said as Ahsoka made a dramatic noise of shock.

“You know I’m right.” She said, which ok, she wasn’t exactly wrong, but that doesn’t mean she has to say it.

‘ Ease up on him, He will sort it with a mind healer.’ His droid from the future said. 

“For the last time, I-do-not-need-therapy Artoo.” He shushed the droid. Though at least he was being nicer, so there was that.

A lot of doubtful glances were shared between everybody in that room.

Ahsoka's eyes immediately lit up at the prospect of being able to start rattling off his flaws, but Yoda hummed instead.

“Sith Lord, the Chancellor is confirmed to be, you all can confirm these accusations, hmm?” Master Yoda said redirecting the focus of the discussion for, was it the third time?

“Artoo, the future one at least, has recordings of the Emperor.” Luke pointed out before nodding to the droid, who promptly projected one of the said recordings.

Artoo then paused it on his face.

Anakin was taken aback by the sight. The Chancellor looked as if somebody blow torched his face, for a while, and then he was aged for a hundred years in the sun, but was somehow still pale. Like transparent skin pale, that was almost, and was, purple in some places.

Honestly disgusting.

Appalling even.

Could make somebody gag on the spot.

He could gag right now.

He maybe even already threw up in his mouth.

”Oh.” Ahsoka said turning her head away, “Ew.”

“I forgot how ugly he was.” Han mused.

“I never actually saw him that close.” Din nodded with Han, “Never really wanted to either.”

Artoo calling him a wrinkled bitch now made more sense too. He couldn’t even be critical of his word choice because it really was accurate.

Does being a Sith Lord make you that ugly?

Dooku wasn’t necessarily that ugly, Anakin hates the man, but he wasn’t that ugly, well he looks normal-

Was he that ugly in the future?

He was scorched.

He was fucking scorched.

He subconsciously grabbed his hair with wide eyes, but nobody really noticed the action, as they continued the discussion.

“That’s Palpatine?” He heard Master Fisto ask, with similar amount of disgust, and skepticism as everyone else probably felt.

“When he first came into power he said an attack by the Jedi had left him scarred and deformed,” Leia explained while looking at the recording with a disgust, even worse than the looks she gave him.

So it was borderline scary. Anakin thinks he would have just dissolved, directly on the spot, if she looked at him like that. That said a lot saying as his first reaction when someone glares at him, is to glare right back.

It reminded him vaguely of how Padmé could look at people. She did punch a Senator in the face before as well. He believed his daughter/not-daughter could be capable of worse. 

The name murder of Jabba, specifically, came to mind.

“This is enough evidence then for this. We can not leave him in power any longer.” Windu said gravely.

”No need to play the actual recording?” Leia asked. Windu just shook his head.

”No, please turn it off.” He said, and she obliged.

“Wait, so are we just going now?” Luke interrupted.

Everyone turned to him in surprise, and maybe some astonishment for questioning Windu, especially over something like this.

Anakin even blinked in surprise.

Luke looked at least a little abashed, and with his record, Anakin was not even sure he meant to say that, or at least word his question like that.

“I mean...I am kind of tired, It’s almost night, time is weird, we’ve been up almost 24 hours-“ he sure enough, started to ramble nervously.

“We understand, with the severity of the situation, we can take a couple masters and arrest him-“ Windu said before Luke scrunched up his nose.

“No offense, but all the Jedi are dead, like really dead, and I mean, I don’t want to criticize you at all. I really don’t, but...maybe we should not let history repeat itself.”

Anakin was almost positive they did not inform the Council of that yet.

By the Masters looking back in horror, Anakin could confirm they did not know that bit of information. That very important bit of information.

Leia was shaking her head, cringing internally.

“What my brother is trying to say, before we go through with this we need to take into account the over whelming support the Em- Chancellor has.”

“He controls the courts at this point, and orchestrated this entire war you all are apart of. Getting rid of the Chancellor with out a back up plan would cause absolute chaos.” Leia explained to the Council, who maybe looked confused.

That was new. Anakin would not admit he was mildly confused, because they should kill him now? Granted a small voice was still screaming in his ear that they couldn’t kill him because he still thought of him as a friend...He can think about what that means later.

“Count Dooku is a Sith and still in charge of the Separatists, the Chancellor is the leader of the Republic, with out a leader for it, the Republic would be disorderly.”

”I do not know Dooku, but I doubt he would go for peace after the Chancellor is out of power, we would need to have somebody ready to take over. You all are still in a war. We need political help.” She tried to explain.

“Secondly, the chips. The inhibitor chips in all of the clones, all of them , can be activated by his word alone. If he calls the order, as he did last time, he can murder almost all of the Jedi, we need to start extracting chips, somehow with out him knowing, or a lot of people could die.”

The Masters eyes widened in more horror at that new information, being dropped onto them.

Leia may be more diplomatic, and professional than everyone, but she could be just as blunt as her brother.

“Thirdly he is aspiring to build a super weapon, and if we can trace this back to him, as I am sure there is a trail somewhere, we can use that for grounds of arrest, as I am sure the public would not believe time travel.”

“We can take a day. Do you all always run head first, no thinking into things? Is this a Jedi trait?” She asked, that may have been a jab at more than the Council too.

Luke looked over at her with raised eyebrows a little offended at least.

“Hey-“ He started before Leia just shushed him and moved on.

“Last time the Jedi had tried to arrest the Chancellor, you all were accused of Treason, and it worked.”

The situation was probably much more complicated than that, but that didn’t matter right now. Her small speech seemed to have it’s intended affect.

The entire Council was silent.

“I love my wife.” Han whispered.

“She definitely did not take after you.” Ahsoka said to Anakin she then slapped him on the chest, which hurt, as she made a noise of realization, “We could get your Senator to help.”

Anakin’s previous amusement vanished from his face, “You’re funny.”

“I try.” She gloated.

‘ She is also very accurate on what happened. ’ Artoo added.

The Council seemed to deliberate amoungst themselves before Yoda cleared his throat.

“Very well, rooms you can have in the temple, further planning we shall do, we will need to know more on these inhibitor chips you speak of as well. Start there we should.” Yoda nodded, while smiling up at her, almost proudly too.

“When should we start with them?” Fisto asked.

“I imagine as soon as possible.” Plo reasoned, obviously shaken at the thought of the chips, Anakin knew he basically thought of Wolffe as a son, so it was understandable.

“I can talk to the 501st, and Cody the 212th,” Rex said, “They would be more than willing I am sure.”

“Very well, you can inform them of the situation, while being discreet. We shall contact Master Ti on Kamino, and inform her of everything as well, hopefully with out the Kaminoans knowledge.”

”If we can’t remove the chips, we may need to remove communication from the clones. You are all dismissed for now.” Windu said too, “The chips would be most imperative in this, even so we will need to be wary of any communication as we arrest the Chancellor.”

Oh so this was going to be easy, Anakin thought. Oh shit now he sounds like Obi-Wan.

“I still don’t see why they can’t just...choke him with your Jedi powers.” Din muttered, not so quietly either, “If he can’t breath, he can’t talk, the chips won’t go off.” He put it simply.

“Good point.” Han said amused towards his brother-in-law. 

Obi-Wan made a sound that was something in between a sigh and a cry, as he just turned to usher them out.

“We will be leaving now Masters.” Obi-Wan choked out.

“He knows how to kill people for a living. Best bounty hunter in the business.” Ahsoka called again, to the Council with way too much amusement slapping her hand on Din’s shoulder, as he took several steps away from her, and both went out the door.

“May the force be with you.” Obi-Wan muttered before quickly shutting the doors behind them.

Anakin wished he could go back in to see their faces.

The Council all sat in their seats, pondering the disastrous conversation, and exit of the group.

“So are we not going to address Skywalker breaking the code, his son and daughter each having spouses, the fact that those are probably Senator Amidala’s children?”

”Or if not that, the fact that Skywalker is good friends with Palpatine, and Artoo seems more annoyed with Skywalker than usual?”

”Furthermore his comment about Master Kenobi cutting off Skywalkers limbs? Also we knew the fate of our Order was not good, but they just dropped on us that, everyone in it was dead.” Billaba said plainly towards her former Master.

Windu continued to frown towards the door, before placing his head in his hands, “I simply can not deal with all of that right now.”

“Right, yeah...Me too.”

“Strange circumstances these are.” Yoda giggled.

“Shut up.”

“You know, I still never got to eat.” Han said, thinking of how Luke mentioned sleeping.

Luke was hungry too. Tired and hungry.

Obi-Wan stared at him unbelievably, which was fair.

“The Council probably thinks we are just going to go off and kill somebody.” He said.

“It wouldn’t be just somebody, it would be a prune.” Han corrected.

“I still can’t believe that was the Chancellor.” Ahsoka said before patting the future droid.

“Hey Artooie, maybe if you showed Palpatine what he looks like in the future, he will just drop dead from fear, and we won’t have to do any of the hard work.” She pointed out.

Artoo beeped in amusement.

“We can show you the rooms the temple has, then we can get on with . . . Whatever we need to.” Obi-Wan sighed as he waved for them to follow, just ignoring the comments, probably just in a hurry to leave so they wouldn’t say anything else.

“Conveniently, I know there is an open room by Anakin’s and Ahsoka’s apartment. It has two rooms, as they are designed for Masters and Padawans, so the four of you should fit, at least temporarily.” He explained.

“We also may have spare clothes so you all do not have to be stuck in those outfits, or if you want you can wear something for the night and we can have everything washed by tomorrow.”

“That would be very much appreciated, Master.” Leia said, as the other three just nodded with her.

Before they could so much as walk off a comm went off.

And it was his father’s...again.

Obi-Wan looked like he wanted to take his lightsaber to the small object, while Anakin chuckled nervously, as he patted his clothes, trying to get the object out from his pockets.

Ahsoka went around, and plucked it from his hands, as she looked down at it.

She chuckled as she looked at it.

”This should be good.” She smirked tossing it back to him.

Anakin glared at her before he looked down at the small object, before paling.

“Oh... Padmé.” He said quietly, sparing a questioning glance towards Ben, who just waved for him to answer.

Luke appeared to stop breathing as he watch his father brace himself answering the small comm.

“Ani...” A woman’s voice breathed out, “Where have you been? I have been trying to get ahold of you since you landed...there have been rumors...” She trailed off.

Anakin winced at that.

“Sorry angel...I have been, caught up.” He said cautiously.

Luke saw Ahsoka mouth the word ‘angel’ to herself, more than amused, as Anakin bumped her shoulder lightly.

“What? It’s disgustingly cheesy.” She said out loud, before placing a hand to her mouth, as her eyes went wide.

A pause.

“Anakin?” His mother’s voice said warningly after a painfully long silence. “Was that Ahsoka?”

“...no?” He said, rather unconvincingly.

“Sorry.” Ahsoka said apologetically.

“Oh, Ahsoka honey, you don’t have to be sorry.” Padmé said quickly.

“Anakin on the other hand...Did you tell Ahsoka?” She asked with an edge to her words. She already knew the answer. Everybody already knew the answer, so she was more trapping him with words. Leia did the same thing.

“Yes...” His father said resigned.

“I know you wished she could know, but I would have liked to been there too. I thought we would talk about it before telling anyone?” She asked.

“I didn’t mean to. It is complicated-“

“Should we go somewhere while you sort this out?” Han asked pointing towards a random door that Luke thinks led to another closet. As if they needed another one of those.

Anakin cringed, as another pause followed.

“Anakin. How many people are there right now? Who was that?” Padmé asked.

“Umm...let me see,” He said as he started counting, “Eight? Also that was Han.” He said bluntly.

“Eight?! Han? Anakin!” She shot off quickly.

“Well...Where are you? We should probably talk about this in person.” Anakin said, sending a pleading look towards Obi-Wan, who just nodded in agreement again. Probably figuring that she would need to know at this point.

“The Senate building still, I had to finish a few things, I was just waiting for a ride.” She answered promptly, wanting to get on with this.

“How long until you will be home?” Anakin asked.

“Not another thirty minutes- Don’t come here-“ She said, and based off his father’s face he was definitely planning on going there.

He just smirked, confirming Luke’s suspicions.

“Ok, love you be there soon.” He said before ending the comm, and nobody missed Padmé’s exasperated amusement.

“What?” He said to Obi-Wan’s stare.

“Thirty minutes is a while, this will be so much quicker-“ His father tried to explain. Obi-Wan opened his mouth to retort with something, but he was interrupted by a groan from Ahsoka.

“Yeah Obi-Wan come on. Don’t you want to see Anakin get yelled at by his wife?” She questioned.

Luke was just trying to prepare himself. That was his mother’s voice. He had just heard his mother’s voice. He knew it was mentioned, but now they were actually going to see her.

“I still don’t see why-“

“Obi-Wan.” Ahsoka said seriously, going over to put a hand on his arm. He looked down at it shaking his head, before Ahsoka snapped her fingers at him.

“Eyes on me.” She said, “Are you saying, we should postpone a heartfelt meeting between two kind-of orphans and their birth mother. I did not know you could be so cruel.” She shook his head at him.

Obi-Wan rolled his eyes, “You know that was not what I meant, even Senator Amidala said specifically not to come-“

“Not the time Obi-Wan. Not the time. Look at him,” She now gestured to Luke.

“He looks like a lost puppy-sunshine-creature, who just wants to see his mother.”

Luke shot her a mildly annoyed glance, but she just continued to press.

“And look at her,” She now pointed to Leia, “She even said we need political help. Padmé is a Senator.” She reasoned.

“Yes, but we can-“

“Good, now let’s go.” The small togruta said turning on her heel to head towards the ship

“Also, you know if you wanted Anakin not to go you could just have lied to him. Be smart.” Ahsoka put out there.

Anakin scoffed, “I would not have fallen for that.”

Obi-Wan was now pondering her advice now though, “Perhaps that may have worked.” He decided, ignoring Anakin’s small protest.

“I am not guillible, I am a-“

“Impulsive person, who hears one word, and bases everything on that. You don’t think things through. Granted it isn’t your worst trait, but that makes you...easy to mess with.” Ahsoka explained.

“No, I...I’m not.”

“Yeah sure, what if I told you that Obi-Wan and Cody had gotten together.” Ahsoka smirked.

Anakin paused for a minute squinting at Ahsoka.

“...are they?”

“No!” Obi-Wan said disbelievingly, “How could you believe that right after she called you gullible?”

“No no, you can’t say that like I haven’t seen you two make eyes at each other.” Anakin said gesturing between the two.

“Making eyes?” Obi-Wan asked disbelievingly.

“You know what I mean- don’t you turn away Cody.” Anakin snapped his fingers.

Luke was positive, if Cody hadn’t had his bucket on right then, he would be blushing.

“And you say me and Padmé are obvious.” Anakin continued on.

Obi-Wan was even going slightly red at that before just shaking his head.

”Nobody can be that obvious.” He said flustered.

Ahsoka started to smirk.

“I think Obi-Wan has a crush? Is it only sarcastic mandalorians too?” She asked with amusement seeping into her face.

“Young one.” He admonished, not answering the question.

Luke heard Cody trip as they were walking.

“Cody do you reciprocate these feelings by chance.” Rex asked. “You can be honest, we are Vod’e.”

“You know even I noticed something going.” Luke said sympathetically looking towards his old mentor.

“How? You have literally only been here a day.” Obi-Wan disgruntled.

“It’s in the eyes.” Han pitched in.

“I am wearing a helmet.” Cody said finally speaking up.

“It’s ok Cody, we understand everything you are trying to convey.” Rex knowingly.

“I am not conveying anything.” Cody shushed his brother as he just laughed back at him.

“I thought we were heading to the Senate building?” Din asked, definitely taking pity on him. Softy.

“Yes we were Dinster.” Ahsoka said to him, going to smack his shoulder again, but he just moved away. Again.

”By the end of this you will warm up to me, nay I say even be my friend.” She said seriously, pointing at him.

“Well, as much as I want to see this play out, we are actually going to head back to the hangar, and deal with the aftermath of Artoo’s adventure,” Cody interrupted, giving Rex a pointed look. Rex looked over a little disappointed though.

”Also to talk with some of the men about, well everything. Kix, Hardcase, and Jesse are probably still confused.”

“Avoidance of your feelings only works for so long,” Luke said wisely, “Trust me, look at Din, and don’t be like him.”

”I love him-“ Luke said quickly, “But heed my words.”

Din was facing his husband now, but eventually just tilted his head in agreement, “I love you too.” He said mildly.

“Aw. Anyways, we are going now.” Ahsoka said quickly, tugging on his father’s sleeve to start pulling him along.  

“Indeed we are.” He said allowing himself to be dragged.

“What could go wrong.” Obi-Wan sighed, as he watched their group start to wander off.

“Probably everything.” Leia said lightly walking past him to catch up with Han.

“Yeah...probably everything.” He huffed as he tapped on Artoo’s dome, and with one fleeting look towards Cody, and Rex’s backs, he went to catch up with the others.

Something was wrong.

The Senate building usually was quiet.

Of course people argued in it, but it was usually always in the passive-aggressive word battles Bail was always familiar with.

Not a distressed shout.

So to say Bail was confused would be an understatement.

He turned a corner to see where several people seemed to be ducked into a hallways, shushing each other.

So Bail started to really take in the odd group apparently now hiding, in the middle of the Senate building.

He recognized a few of them, that being Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, his former Padawan, Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker, and then his Padawan, Ahsoka Tano.

And knowing with that company, trouble usually followed.

They are probably a huge factor as to why it looks like they were going to rob the Senate building.

Not to mention it was the rearing towards the middle of the night, so it was not helping their cause.

“I forgot he might be here.” Bail heard a voice whisper. It came from a blond man, who was now leaning against one of the pillars, as he took a breath of relief, “Do you think he noticed us?” He asked someone. The man seemed...oddly familiar. 

“More than likely. If not with his eyes then by...other means. We are extremely lucky, he didn’t take notice, and decide to confront us.” A brunette woman now spoke, slightly louder than the other.

She moved her face so Bail could see her more clearly. As odd as it sounded she reminded him of Padmé vaguely...Except for the accent. If Bail had to guess he would confidently say it was from Alderaan.

“I told you all we shouldn’t have came.” Master Kenobi mumbled.

“You didn’t seem to protest it-“ Skywalker started to say before cutting off at, what Bail assumed, was a glare from his mentor.

“Ok well you didn’t protest it as much as usual...” Skywalker corrected.

Bail pushed his eyebrows together to try and get an idea on just what they were talking about. It seemed to be the group was obviously hiding from someone, but that would only leave who it was to question.

The brunette then turned around, and she laid her eyes on him. She gasped slightly, and instantly everybody else turned around in sync.

It seems he was spotted then.

“Who is that?” He heard the...Mandalorian. That was definitely a Mandalorian. Bail was not that familiar with Mandalorian culture, but he did know what Beskar was. This person had armor full of it.

Bail could barely keep in his sigh, as he smiled towards the group.

“Senator Bail Organa of Alderaan.” He introduced himself to the group for them. It was no use to lie, or pretend he wasn’t there anyways. He was awfully curious as well...

“Senator Organa, we are surprised to see you here.” Master Kenobi said graciously, but also flustered. Which was out of character for the man.

Bail quirked his eyebrow at them, pointedly looking around the area.

“You all are in the middle of the Senate building. My office is just down the hall,” He said with some amusement in his voice, “May I ask what you all are doing here?”

They all just blinked at him, which was kind of unsettling.

“What are you doing here?” Padawan Tano finally asked in return, jutting up her head in the same why her Master sometimes did, as she challenged him.

“Snips.” He heard Knight Skywalker say, as he gently chastised the girl.

Bail just smiled back instead, “I forgot some paperwork and was planning to head to my office.” He answered, “As it is just down the hall.” He repeated pointing a little ways down.

She continued to just squint at him in her assessment, before nodding her head,

“Ok, that checks out.” She said, still scrutinizing him.

Bail also couldn’t help, but let his gaze fall on the girl who looked like Padmé. She was still staring at him as though she had seen a ghost.

“Are you alright?” He asked her gently. She had this faraway look in her eyes.

That seemed to snap her out of the trance as she shook her head.

“Yeah...yeah, I’m sorry, Senator.” She said as she straightened herself up with poise.

Along with her Alderaanian accent, Bail could recognize the braids in her hair, that even his wife sometimes wore as well. In fact her updo, with the braids in a crown like style, was one Breha often adorned herself.

It was one of her favorites in fact.

“You’re from Alderaan?” He couldn’t help, but ask to see if his hunch was right.

She sucked in a breath.

“Yeah.” She said quietly.

Bail only thought this entire this was moderately strange. He just smiled at her, before he nodded to the others in passing and began to head to his office.

“Oh...that was her father.” He heard, he thinks it was the Mandalorian, and Bail stopped in his tracks.

He slowly turned around confused, and saw the entire group cringing.

“Huh?” He asked, not so eloquently, the statement seemed to throughly shut down Bail’s system. He could not have heard that right.

A father?

“At least it wasn’t me this time.” The blonde  said in amusement as he raised his hand to Tano, who just slapped it.

Bail just continued to stand there with his mouth open.

Footsteps then started to approach them, who else would be here this late?

He turned to see Padmé coming around the corner, probably on her way out.

Her shoulders visibly slumped as she analyzed the group.

“This appears to be a conversation that needs to be held elsewhere.” She said tightly, and Bail could only assume she heard at least some of the words said.

He also managed to notice the pointed look she gave Knight Skywalker. Bail didn’t even want to know what that was.

“Your office, or somewhere else?” Obi-Wan finally spoke up, fully resigned to follow what she said.

“I assume this is something...prying ears shouldn’t hear, we can come to my apartment. If that is alright with...everyone. After all, I seem to recall telling you not to come?” She said to the fairly large group.

Bail nodded his head mutely still stuck on the fact he was just called a father. He assumed the others did the same because Padmé then turned and started walking shaking her head.

He took one last glance at the woman, Leia.

He had always wanted a girl...

Chapter Text

Padmé was...frustrated. Yes, that seemed to be the appropriate word to convey her mood at the moment.

She was now standing, arms crossed and her brow furrowed, in front of what seemed to be one of the biggest messes she has ever come across in her short life.

And she has confronted a vast number of horrible circumstances, one of which an actual War they were fighting currently.

There were several people whom she didn’t know standing in her living room, all sprawled about.

There was also her husband who told everyone they were married, as if it was never a secret to begin with.

Additionally, there was Ahsoka who looked like she was going to start laughing . Again.

Obi-Wan, who—frankly—looked as if he hadn’t slept in days. She supposed with the man, that very well could be true.

And then there was Bail who looked like he was just smacked over the head with a frying pan. She couldn’t even blame her friend, the situation itself was more than baffling.

There were two Artoos. That wasn’t something that just happened.

When Anakin had hung up with her on the comm, she knew he would be heading to the Senate building and she could accept that. Nobody, except the Coruscant guard, would be around. Maybe a few other politicians. That would be it though.

She could handle that . It was manageable .

Then on her way out she happened to hear something she couldn’t even begin to understand.

‘ Oh that’s her father. ’

Padmé knew that wasn’t just some mistake. Not with how everyone had froze.

So now they were here, and she was still frustrated.

“Time travel?” She questioned dully.

Of all the explanations she was expecting, that was most certainly not one of them.

The force was many things, most of which she knew she would never be able to understand fully, even with a husband as in tuned with it as Anakin. It was something she had accepted a long time ago. Though now, not understanding is much harder than she thought it would be. She yearned to understand.

Especially in cases such as this.

“Yep.” Anakin said. His causality was almost more aggravating than the situation currently at hand.

“They are from the future?” She questioned again, turning back to the group with a raised brow, unable to really accept what was being told to her as truth. She liked to think she could deal with loads of shavit as well, and she usually had to, but this? Really ?

The blonde man was sitting on her couch next to the Mandalorian. She assumed they were together if their locked hands had anything to say about it…except he wore a lightsaber on his belt. She could make the assumption that he was a Jedi, or, she supposed, perhaps only used the force. Maybe he even stole the saber, she had no idea, but he had the air of a Jedi. Padmé thinks it’s the posture.

The Mandalorian in return had an unwavering stare, or at least she thinks it was unwavering given that nobody could see his eyes moving. He also looked stiff, and mildly uncomfortable, but she now wondered if that was normal for him because the blonde didn’t appear worried about him on that aspect.

Then there was the brunette, Padmé assumed with the last name Organa, staring at Bail as if he would disappear into thin air. The sight provoked so many questions in Padmé’s brain, many of which was just worry for what that meant for her fellow colleague and friend’s future, and the other questions were for the woman’s life as a whole.

The scruffy looking man, Padmé wondered if he was the Han on the call earlier (he looked like a Han anyways), was holding her close to him on the other side of the couch. The conversation taking place seemed to be of no worry to him compared to the importance of her.

But overall, they all looked nervous, and they all looked out of place.

Like they were out of their time.

She was almost inclined to believe the outrageous tale.

“Yep.” Anakin said again, and then proceeded to go into another silence.

She sighed, resisting the urge to pinch the bridge of her nose, and that urge was stronger than a bantha , “So why are they…” She trailed off not knowing how to put all of her questions into words.

Why were they here?

How did they get here?

Why did he tell them about everything?

Really the questions could go on for days.

“You have a lovely apartment.” An airy, light voice interrupted her. She turned to see it was the blonde man again. He seemed to be in a daze as he looked around at her belongings, but it didn’t unsettle her.

Upon her stare, he ducked his head down, “Sorry.” He muttered.

“No— thank you.” Padmé said gratuitously, though with some trepidation, before sparing Obi-Wan a glance in the hope he could give something away about what that was.

She made eye contact with her friend as he finally looked up at her in the eyes, but he pointedly kept his lips pinched shut as he returned her look with a shrug and the shake of his head, before giving Anakin his own look that said ‘ Get on with it.’

She looked back to her husband, who since noticing the focus was all on him, made a point to stare a hole into their floor.

“Hm,” Anakin started, clearing his throat as he stepped up near her side, “I suppose it would be easiest to introduce everyone first…” He said, looking towards the people on the couch.

“Or address what I just heard.” Bail mumbled. He had his hand covering his mouth partially, locking his eyes on the woman once more.

“He said…You’re my daughter?” Bail asked hesitantly.

The woman looked like a tooka caught in headlights, but she still managed to send a glare to the Mandalorian.

“I’m…sorry?” The Mandolorian mumbled slowly.

“Why did you phrase that as a question?” The scruffy man asked. The Mandalorian just shrugged in return.

Bail was still looking towards her with a questioning expression, and something that Padmé knew was hope.

She was good friends with the Organas, and knew that they wished for a child. Yes. What Bail had in his eyes was a hope that this may be true.

The woman eventually nodded her head in conformation. She still held poise in her face, but Padmé could see the glistening in her eye as she looked at her father…

Bail leaned back in his chair, and ran his hand through his hair, leaving it mussed, and untidy, which was so unlike her friend, she almost worried—

But then he smiled, and then he laughed sharply.

“My daughter.” He said to himself, smiling over at her, “I have a grown daughter…who time travelled to the past…how—well why did you?” He asked suddenly, drawing Padmé’s own curiosity as well.

The woman’s shoulders relaxed, as she rolled her eyes now, and pointedly looked to the blonde man who was avoiding her line of sight, slouching behind the Mandalorian.

All eyes were already on him now, so he sighed.

“Leia, we already established this was not my fault.” He said slowly, but Leia, she finally had a name, continued to stare at him.

“Ok—Fine. If I must say, then I will say.” He sighed out, putting up his index finger as if to start counting.

“Firstly, it was barely my fault; barely .” He started, causing a few of the others to groan.

“Oh here we go—“ The scruffy man said rubbing his temples, but the blonde didn’t seem to hear, nor care.

“Secondly. I think the  force definitely had something to do with it too, what I did was merely an accident, with debatably drastic consequences—“

“Ok Luke. That’s enough.” Leia said, shushing him at the same time she heard somebody whisper ‘ debatably ’ disbelievingly.

“What? I am not not going to defend myself.” Luke stated, but Leia was ignoring him.

“So you all came here by accident.” Padmé clarified, “Are you looking for a way back now?” She asked, trying to make sense of what was currently happening.

“Well, not right now , we still have a small problem—“ Luke started, but Leia let out a harsh laugh.

“It is hardly a small problem.”

“Ok fine, big, large, particularly giant problem to sort out while we are here.” Luke amended calmly.

“And that brought you to the Senate building?” She asked, looking towards Anakin.

“Well, we mostly did that for the whole reunion thing, and also so you could yell at Anakin, which you didn’t do , so that was mildly disappointing.” Ahsoka said from where she was leaned over a chair.

Anakin gave the girl a wry smile, but Padmé pressed on.

“Reunion?” Padmé asked, and Ahsoka’s eyes went wide. Bail’s own smile waned off of his face, as he pinched his eyebrows together in thought. Padmé could practically hear the gears turning in his head, as did her own.

Reunion was the word Ahsoka had chosen, and while she didn’t seem to think much on the wording, it didn’t make it any less significant.

“You haven’t seen me in a while, have you?” Bail asked his daughter, but she said nothing. She was now avoiding eye contact with him, and he let out a soft breath.

Oh , Padmé realized quickly, though her thoughts didn’t want to completely put together what was now obvious.

“I’m gone in your time.” He realized, at almost the same time Padmé had.

In this future. Bail Organa was dead. Seemingly for a while.

Leia barely nodded her head, before Padmé could see tears in the young woman’s eyes, making her want to wrap her up in a hug more than anything, despite how unprofessional that would be. It probably wouldn’t help either.

“I’m so sorry.” Leia murmured barely louder than a whisper. Bail came to her side, and placed a hand under her chin.

“Now I may not understand this all fully, but I do know you have absolutely nothing to be sorry for.” He said, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

“You don’t understand—“ Leia said, shaking her head.

“I understand enough.” Bail interrupted her, dropping his hand down onto her shoulder, “What happens to me could never have been anything you would have to apologize for.”

Leia looked down at it, and then back at her father’s face quickly, before enveloping him in a hug.

“It was all my fault,” She murmured into his shoulder, “I didn’t tell them right away—I didn’t break, but the cost …the cost was Alderaan , and you and Mama.”

Padmé couldn’t see Bail’s face, but she could see the way his shoulders had tensed at the grim announcement.

The cost was Alderaan.

Something had been horrible enough to presumably destroy an entire world. As well as take away two of Padmé’s friends.

She spared a glance around. The room was somber but they didn’t have the same sense of surprise that she had.

There was also little to no context on the situation to understand her apology in full, but after a tense pause she saw Bail shake his head.

“I am proud to have you as my daughter, Leia. I am sure my future self was as well.” He said eventually.

“You did what you had to do without giving in, there is nothing else I could have asked for.” Bail continued.

“You don’t even know all of it.” Leia whispered.

“I don’t have to.”

They were quiet for a moment longer, but Leia eventually moved away from her father, saying something into his ear as she did so, until moving back onto the furniture in her original position.

“That wasn’t even the reunion I was talking about, that was just a chance thing.” Ahsoka muttered, emitting a small laugh from Bail.

“Then what one were you referencing?” Padmé asked.

Ahsoka opened her mouth, but quickly snapped it shut, biting her lip.

“I should not have said that, damn Skywalkers spreading the bluntness like a disease .” She hissed.

“Really Snips?” Anakin interjected, as the girl began to scramble.

“I’m sorry, Rex is my filter.” She tried to give as an excuse.

“Rex can’t keep a secret to save his life.” Anakin countered.

“I didn’t say he was a good filter.”

Padmé’s brain went muddled with that, even with the talk of actual time travel , that was the thing to put a stick in her wheels.

Skywalkers . As in more than just her husband.

Ahsoka must have noticed her startled expression because she then cursed in either Mando’a or Huttese, who knew with the child, before letting out a small sigh.

“I really am sorry, shouldn’t have said that.” She said, crouching lower in her seat.

Padmé looked over at her husband to try and see if she could understand what was going on, or if the wording was just some mistake, but he wasn’t looking at her.

No. That was because he was looking towards Luke.

She looked over at him, more closely now than she once had.

His hair was dirty blonde in color, nearing the same shade as Anakin’s, but that could be a coincidence surely.

Though…she could see that familiar glint in his eye that never seems to disappear. She could see the same roundness in his jaw, that resembled her own.

Luke gave her a small smile, clearly noticing her staring.

He had her smile.

It was a bizarre thing to even begin to believe; her and Anakin having a child. Especially when said child was sitting in her living room, on her couch, older than than the each of them, not even a child anymore.

Somehow despite all of it Padmé’s heart warmed at the thought.

She knew she had always wanted to be a mother, but she had her career to think about, then the War, as well as both her and Anakin’s reputations. Anakin would be kicked out of the Order, and she wasn’t sure if the Queen would allow her to continue to serve in the senate.

But now, after all of that she could see herself in the Lake country of Naboo, with a small blonde boy, with a bright personality, in her lap as Anakin sat next to them entertaining him with the force.

They would be happy. They could be happy.

“You’re my son.” She stated clearly, and confidently. Not as a question either, there wasn’t really room for it to be a question any longer.

“You knew it was me?” Luke asked unsurely, and Padmé just nodded her head, because who else could it be?

“I would like to think I could recognize my son, despite having not met him yet.” Padmé decided to tease slightly.

The smile she got back was blinding .

Goddess , Padmé now had so many questions on the future, and they all now centered around this man. What was he like? Was he happy? Did her and Anakin do a good job with raising him?

Luke laughed now, and she felt his eyes looking over her like she would be gone in a second.

Her smile then faltered.

Oh, now that was something she didn’t predict—Something she didn’t want to ever think about. How could she predict that really?

His smile had paralleled Leia’s right then, and Padmé knew—She knew she did not live through her son’s whole life, if ever at all.

Because his smile was different than Leia’s in that way. He was looking at her as if he never got meet her, while Leia looked at Bail like she was seeing him again after a long time—similar, but still different.

She was dead. And just like that, her happy moment disappeared into a grief she couldn’t understand.

Not yet at least.

How could she know how to grieve a life she can’t live?

Her feet were already moving, she wasn’t really thinking everything through—and Padmé thought everything through twice over—but this she didn’t need to think through.

She walked right up to Luke, her very bright and remarkable son , and she placed both of her hands on his shoulders, and looked at his face. She memorized it.

Then she was hugging him. He was stiff and the room was quiet, but she didn’t care.

And then he finally hugged her back, and before she knew it she was holding him at shoulder length once more.

“I am sorry I couldn’t be there for you, but know I’m proud of you. We can fix this.” She said, looking over towards Anakin, who could only nod.

“How bad is this future?” She asked.

“Do you want the short answer or the long one?” Bail’s daughter quipped.

Luke was smiling, and he rolled his eyes.

“Either would suffice.” Padmé said.

“Ok, then pretty bad.” Han finished for them.

“And the time travel? You all are trying to change…what happens?” She asked, sending a glance towards Anakin.

She dies. She doesn’t want to die.

“That was the plan.” Luke said with an easy smirk.

“There is no plan.” She heard Obi-Wan mutter tersely.

“We kinda have a plan now though.” Ahsoka quipped from her couch.

“And what’s that?” Padmé asked.

Ahsoka smirked.

“ That . Is insane—this future, how you got here…” Bail finally said.

“All of it.” Padmé agreed.

“Eh, could be worse,” Luke said offhandedly. Her son was saying something offhandedly.

“Din once was trying to do tricks with the darksaber because, and I quote, ‘This would piss Bo off so fucking much.’ End quote.”

“Then, instead of catching the handle, he caught the blade part, almost cut off his hand, and he drops it to the ground.” Luke listed off on his hand for demonstration.

“Bo happens to come in like right after, I still don’t know why or how , but she sees the blade halfway through a floor board, and proceeds to start saying curses I don’t feel comfortable even thinking about, and I grew up on Tatooine for reference. I can swear, but not like that .”

“Now I’m freaking out. Din’s just standing there like nothing happened as his hand was—well...eh. Anyways! Then Grogu somehow ate a rock . And right after Din passes out, wakes up, passes out again, wakes up again , and refuses to go to a doctor because apparently he was ‘fine.’ He was not . So he passes out again .”

“This whole situation has yet to live up to the amount of anxiety I had that day.” Luke finished crossing his arms with a smile. It waned.

“Wait what was I saying?” He asked.

“Now why did you have to bring that up.” Din said quietly.

Padmé now opened her mouth to say something, but just shook her head, and shut it.

What situation were they truly getting themselves into?

“And why did I never hear about this?”  Han asked amazed. He turned over to say something, presumably along the lines of teasing, to the Mandalorian. Din just gripped his blaster causing Han to freeze and shut his mouth.

Leia and Obi-Wan both sighed at the same time.

“Was he alright?” Padmé asked more concerned than anything veering from her previous topic of conversation.

Luke just nodded as he waved it off, “Oh yeah, it wasn’t the first time Grogu ever ate a rock. I am an expert at handling that now.”

“I meant your—Din.” She responded softly.

“Oh right, yeah he still has his hand,” He said as Din allowed for Luke to grab said hand in demonstration.

“Though it would be neat if we were matching, then he would be the third member of this family to loose their right hand.” Luke commented.

“You lost your hand?” Padmé now asked again, “How did that happen?”

Anakin immediately cringed, as Luke bit his lip trying to find a response, while Ahsoka’s eyes lit up.

“Oh! Skyguy can answer that one.” She said turning to face him expectantly.

“That’s not funny.” He said shaking his head.

“What? Luke are you upset by that?” She now asked her son. He just shook his head.

“Oh no. I repressed most of the trauma awhile ago. Really just internalized it.” He said matter-of-factly. “Went straight into the vault.” He pointed to his brain.

“We really should consider getting you a therapist.” Din said grabbing his arm lightly.

“Well at least I didn’t turn to the darkside because of my issue unlike father dearest.” He said pointing towards his father.

Padmé whipped her head around to her own husband, her eyes widening, as Anakin closed his eyes in resignation.

“You know, observing the blunt revelations is so much more fun, than receiving them.” Ahsoka observed sagely nudging Bail in the side. He still had his head resting in his hands while also covering his mouth. It wasn’t clear if he even registered her action.

“Well you’re boring.” She said leaning back to see Padmé with her mouth agape.

“Anakin?” Padmé asked with an edge to her tone. Her gaze was unwavering as he squirmed under it uncomfortably.

Everybody else just stayed frozen to watch this play out.

“Yes dear?” He asked anyways, and they could all see Padmé take a deep breath in. Whether to get ready to yell, or to calm herself was unclear.

Instead of either though, she looked over at him sadly. With frown on her face, that held a compassion only so many people could hold she went over to him, and gently squeezed his hand in her own.

“You turned to the darkside in this future... didn’t you.” She said. It wasn’t really a question anymore now though.

He stood still for a few moments before stiffly nodding his head anyways.

Anakin opened his mouth a few times trying to find something to say, and she just waited patiently the entire time.

“I’m... so sorry angel.” He eventually got out, his voice thick. Ahsoka didn’t even tease him about the nickname this time as she sat quietly next to Bail.

“Why would... how?” She asked next and Anakin truly was a loss for words. It was no secret he wished he could tell her.

“Don’t know, but we are going to try and fix that—him.” Luke interjected, just as Han nodded.

“And get the old prune out of office.” Han added.

“Palpatine.” Leia added additionally.

“What does Palpatine do?” Padmé asked, her brows furrowing.

Everyone stared at her.

“A lot.” Ahsoka summarized.