Can we have more of the freeforme au with anakin willing to discuss a treaty with the rebellion due to wanting his wife and the twins back? Agreeing to slowly return power To the senate but still get rid of Palpatine supporters through some well violent ways?

Grim faced, Padme
leaned back in her chair as the holo flickered to life with Emperor
Vader appearing before them in all his glory as he
stood there with his arms tucked behind his back and his chin tilted
up, a cold expression on Anakin’s face.

“I see the
Alliance allowed this meeting to occur, I was uncertain that any of
you would respond to the invite I extended.”  He offered in an
almost light tone, a small smile curling his lips.

Padme groaned. “Cut
the crap Anakin. You killed Palpatine. The official announcement may
be heart attack but I know the truth.” She huffed out while several
of her fellow rebels were shifting in their seat, shooting looks
mixed between worry and exasperation at her.

The dark clothed
man, because of course Anakin was wearing black to hide the oil
stains again, tilted his head at her before he shrugged.
“Fine, I did. What are you going to do about it? Hiding out
here, taking potshots at the Empire. I seem to remember Obi-Wan
telling me that the Jedi order didn’t train terrorist.” He
drawled, crossing his arms over his chest.

Jaw dropping a bit,
Padme stared at him.

She had not
expected him to just admit it!

But he had, staring
at her in an undaunted fashion.

Closing her mouth
slowly at the new wash of muttering as Anakin’s eyes never moved
off her, Padme tilted a bit back as Obi-Wan whispered into her ear.

“Hello Obi-Wan.”
Anakin greeted suddenly.

The redhead with
gray at his temples straightened at that, letting go of the hurriedly
whispered advice he had been trying to give Padme as he peered at
Anakin. “Hello… Anakin.” He greeted in return, smiling a tiny
bit when the blond smile covered his face. “I’m quite cross with
you I’ll have you know.” He added softly.

“What, did I
disturb a date night or something?” The young emperor drawled
before blinking when Obi-Wan shuffled a bit and colored. “I did.”
Anakin breathed out, visibly shocked. “Well kark me…”

“Enough of this.”
Jan Dodonna finally cut in, sitting up with pursed lips as he stared
at the holo, Anakin giving him a dismissing glance. “Emperor Vader,
we the Alliance High Command, want to know why you have decided to
reach out to us. This is highly irregula-”

“Is it? I seem to
remember the Republic reaching out to the Separatists quite a few
times in an attempt to gain peace.” Anakin cut in, gaining what
both Padme and Obi-Wan recognized as a contrary expression that had
both of them exchanging look.

“…Peace?” Mon
questioned softly, leaning forward finally.

Anakin threw her a
look look, his lips quirking victoriously as if having something
confirmed before he shrugged and nodded. “Look, I don’t care
about being an Emperor. What I did at the birth of the Empire… it
never had anything to do with power, that’s not what
Palpatine had on me.” He chuckled darkly, eyes flickering to
Obi-Wan and Padme before back to Mothma.

“So what are you
proposing?” Mon frowned.

“Do you have any
idea how exhausting this Emperor job is? Not to mention dealing with
Palpatine’s sycophants?” The blond snorted, crossing his arms
over his chest. “Tarkin is an annoying fly. You should hear half
the suggestions he has. He also wants a summer home on Alderaan.”
He grunted a bit. “I want peace, I don’t want this job. Under the
guise of peace I’ll be able to trade away most of the power of the
Emperor chair back to the Senator’s who are honestly only a puppet
show at this time. I’ll allow you all to think about it for a week
before reaching out again.” Anakin drawled, letting his eyes once
more trail to Padme and Obi-Wan, lingering on them for a long moment
before shrugging. “Or we can go back to war, up to the Alliance.”
He cut off.

For a long moment
none of them said anything, only looked at each other around the
table.

And then Bail
sighed and leaned forward, rubbing his face. “Well, that was
something.” He grunted out, grimacing and muttering to himself
about summer homes.

“We will all have
to carefully consider this offer… however…” Mon leveled a sharp
look at Padme and Obi-Wan. “Is his offer genuine?”

Trading looks,
Padme and Obi-Wan each contemplated their knowledge of Anakin
Skywalker.

“…Anakin never
wanted power. I believe him in that.” Obi-Wan finally said.
“Palpatine manipulated him and offered him a chance to ‘save’
his family.” He crossed his arms over his chest.

“But it is a
question of what he now wants in return.” Padme picked up, sitting
back in her chair. “And he does want something…” She frowned
deeply. “What however…” Padme hesitated.

The alliance
command traded looks, each thinking deeply to themselves with what
little information they had about the new Emperor.

What did he want?

Who is this new replacement in Royal Protector (I’m hoping it’s Ahsoka because I love her)??? How long has Obi been training her? And why didn’t Qui know about her before? So many questions!!

Staring at the girl
for a few long moments, Qui-Gon finally looked to Obi-Wan with wide
eyes. “This is your replacement?” He questioned in surprise.

“To be fair, I
did not think I would need her for several years yet.” Obi-Wan
shrugged and moved gingerly to Ahsoka, standing behind her and
settling his hands on her shoulders as he smiled at Qui-Gon over her
head, though something told Qui-Gon she would be taller than Obi-Wan
eventually. “But I can backup her skills, I have trained her
myself. She can take my position though she will need court lessons.”
The redhead assured.

Sitting back in his
throne, Qui-Gon watched the young togruta as she tried not to shuffle
her feet and respectfully kept her eyes down. “Tell me, Ahsoka
Tano, how old are you?” Qui-Gon questioned carefully.

“Sixteen your
highness.” Ahsoka answered promptly in a quiet voice. “Lord
Kenobi has been training me for a year and a half.” She added.

Stroking his chin,
Qui-Gon considered that before smiling. “I’ve seen you before,
haven’t I? You trained with my son in the courtyard arena.” He
chuckled slowly. “You went toe to toe with Anakin and kept up with
him quite marvelously as I remember.”

There was a quirk
of her lips as she glanced shyly up at him and nodded.

Smirking slowly and
looking over her head to meet Obi-Wan’s preening eyes, Qui-Gon
chuckled even more. “Anakin spent the next few days in a sulk but
if your trainer is Obi-Wan then no wonder your skills are already so
great.”

At that Ahsoka
puffed her chest up a bit, raising her chin with a bit of pride but
not arrogance.

Oh Qui-Gon liked
her.

Proud enough to
recognize the skills she had gained but not arrogant enough to bloat
her head. She would fit into their court like a puzzle piece, he as
sure of that.

“I won’t be
taking you as the Royal Protector today.” Qui-Gon stood, smiling
gently when Ahsoka deflated. “But when you turn eighteen, I shall
accept you into the position as Obi-Wan admits you still have things
to learn.”

She perked up again
at that and looked back over her shoulder for permission to speak
before returning her cheerful blue eyes to Qui-Gon. “If I may
sire?” She licked her lips when Qui-Gon gestured for her to
continue. “While my lord is right I have much to learn, it is
mostly in the terms of court etiquette and politics. The Lord
protector has drilled me in battle from the day he took me on and I
will serve with my life until the day I become dust. If something
could be arranged for what skills I am lacking, I vow I will be ready
on my eighteen birthday.”

Well, with that
passionate vow and the glowing recommendation of Obi-Wan behind her,
how could Qui-Gon do any less than give her the tutors she would
need?

And a room in the
palace of course.

Oh Anakin’s face
was going to be hilarious when he realized the young togruta teen
who’d gone toe to toe with him was actually now living with them
and was trained by Obi-Wan!

Qui-Gon was
certainly looking forward to it!

“You have a
cunning look on your face my love.” He looked up at Obi-Wan’s
voice as the man moved to him and stopped in front of the Emperor who
gave his redhead a wicked smile before reaching out and pulling him
into his lap in the throne, uncaring who saw.

He settled his hand
on Obi-Wan’s stomach, knowing he’d feel nothing for several
months still even as he nuzzled at Obi-Wan’s flustering cheek and
ignored his hiss of Qui-Gon’s name. “I may be imagining Anakin’s
face.” He teased.

There was a moment
and then Obi-Wan joined him in his merriment, the redhead chuckling
as he finally relaxed and let the Emperor manhandle him with care.

His love close and
his future more certain, Qui-Gon couldn’t help but feel more
assured and content than in years.

Their future was
more secured.

Who is this new replacement in Royal Protector (I’m hoping it’s Ahsoka because I love her)??? How long has Obi been training her? And why didn’t Qui know about her before? So many questions!!

Staring at the girl
for a few long moments, Qui-Gon finally looked to Obi-Wan with wide
eyes. “This is your replacement?” He questioned in surprise.

“To be fair, I
did not think I would need her for several years yet.” Obi-Wan
shrugged and moved gingerly to Ahsoka, standing behind her and
settling his hands on her shoulders as he smiled at Qui-Gon over her
head, though something told Qui-Gon she would be taller than Obi-Wan
eventually. “But I can backup her skills, I have trained her
myself. She can take my position though she will need court lessons.”
The redhead assured.

Sitting back in his
throne, Qui-Gon watched the young togruta as she tried not to shuffle
her feet and respectfully kept her eyes down. “Tell me, Ahsoka
Tano, how old are you?” Qui-Gon questioned carefully.

“Sixteen your
highness.” Ahsoka answered promptly in a quiet voice. “Lord
Kenobi has been training me for a year and a half.” She added.

Stroking his chin,
Qui-Gon considered that before smiling. “I’ve seen you before,
haven’t I? You trained with my son in the courtyard arena.” He
chuckled slowly. “You went toe to toe with Anakin and kept up with
him quite marvelously as I remember.”

There was a quirk
of her lips as she glanced shyly up at him and nodded.

Smirking slowly and
looking over her head to meet Obi-Wan’s preening eyes, Qui-Gon
chuckled even more. “Anakin spent the next few days in a sulk but
if your trainer is Obi-Wan then no wonder your skills are already so
great.”

At that Ahsoka
puffed her chest up a bit, raising her chin with a bit of pride but
not arrogance.

Oh Qui-Gon liked
her.

Proud enough to
recognize the skills she had gained but not arrogant enough to bloat
her head. She would fit into their court like a puzzle piece, he as
sure of that.

“I won’t be
taking you as the Royal Protector today.” Qui-Gon stood, smiling
gently when Ahsoka deflated. “But when you turn eighteen, I shall
accept you into the position as Obi-Wan admits you still have things
to learn.”

She perked up again
at that and looked back over her shoulder for permission to speak
before returning her cheerful blue eyes to Qui-Gon. “If I may
sire?” She licked her lips when Qui-Gon gestured for her to
continue. “While my lord is right I have much to learn, it is
mostly in the terms of court etiquette and politics. The Lord
protector has drilled me in battle from the day he took me on and I
will serve with my life until the day I become dust. If something
could be arranged for what skills I am lacking, I vow I will be ready
on my eighteen birthday.”

Well, with that
passionate vow and the glowing recommendation of Obi-Wan behind her,
how could Qui-Gon do any less than give her the tutors she would
need?

And a room in the
palace of course.

Oh Anakin’s face
was going to be hilarious when he realized the young togruta teen
who’d gone toe to toe with him was actually now living with them
and was trained by Obi-Wan!

Qui-Gon was
certainly looking forward to it!

“You have a
cunning look on your face my love.” He looked up at Obi-Wan’s
voice as the man moved to him and stopped in front of the Emperor who
gave his redhead a wicked smile before reaching out and pulling him
into his lap in the throne, uncaring who saw.

He settled his hand
on Obi-Wan’s stomach, knowing he’d feel nothing for several
months still even as he nuzzled at Obi-Wan’s flustering cheek and
ignored his hiss of Qui-Gon’s name. “I may be imagining Anakin’s
face.” He teased.

There was a moment
and then Obi-Wan joined him in his merriment, the redhead chuckling
as he finally relaxed and let the Emperor manhandle him with care.

His love close and
his future more certain, Qui-Gon couldn’t help but feel more
assured and content than in years.

Their future was
more secured.

Royal Protector – ohmygosh! does obi try to keep protectoring and suggest to keep the babys dad a secret? does qui retire obi and be like “nope, baby’s ours and i love you”? promote him from protector to consort? has obi been (maybe secretly?) training a replacement just in case something happened to him? oh the possibilities! whichever way you go with it, i looooove it!

Standing there
gaping as Obi-Wan continued dressing, Qui-Gon tried to wrap his head
around the others words.

He had expected to
fight with Obi-Wan now that the redhead was finally cleared to walk
around, he had expected to coax or cajole him into agreement but
instead Obi-Wan had hummed a soft ‘alright’.

Looking up from
where he was buttoning his shirt, Obi-Wan raised an amused brow at
him. “Did you really think I would continue to be your protector
now that I’m in a family away?” Obi-Wan said, brows raising high
as Qui-Gon colored a bit. “I know I can be stubborn Qui-Gon but I
had no idea I was even a bearer and now I’m… well I’m in a
fragile condition as much as I despise saying that.”

Shoulders slumping
from relief, Qui-Gon stepped closer to help Obi-Wan button up his
shirt, covering up the bandages on his stomach. “Thank the Force, I
was worried I’d have to argue with you. You are a stubborn and
willful man my Obi-Wan but forgive my foolish heart, I would never
risk you and our spark now that I know.” He murmured quietly as
large fingers nimbly tucked the brass buttons.

Pale hands covered
the large ones of the Emperor and Qui-Gon looked up slowly to meet
the others gaze. “There are many things I’m willing to risk for
your life, my own included. But I can’t think of my own anymore.”
Obi-Wan murmured softly, peering at him. “So now it all comes down
to this Qui-Gon… what happens now?”

Qui-Gon tilted his
head in bafflement, blinking at him as Obi-Wan peered up at him
earnestly as he squeezed the others hands with care. “What comes
now?” He echoed.

Rolling his eyes a
bit, Obi-Wan sighed. “Yes Qui-Gon, what comes now? What do I do? I
can’t be the Lord Protector anymore but I don’t have any other
standing nor do I have any other job or skil-” Qui-Gon broke off
Obi-Wan’s slowly starting ramble of panic with his lips, kissing
him sweetly while holding his hands before reaching up to cup his
face when he withdrew.

“Oh Obi-Wan, do
you think I would just set you aside? Let the child become a bastard
from an unwed union?” He gently thumbed at the others cheeks,
feeling the bristle of the beard beneath his fingers.

He could see
Obi-Wan’s face fill with sheepishness and watched him give a light
shrug.

“My Obi-Wan,
nothing more in the world would please me then to take you as my
prince consort. There is nothing else in this world that I could
possibly desire except you by my side and I was content with that as
my Lord Protector but that time has come to pass. And you may not
steam from royal blood nor may you come with riches or promise of
alliance, but few can doubt your loyalty to me and mine.” Qui-Gon
ducked down slowly, brushing his lips once again sweetly over the
others before slowly slipping down on a knee in front of it, ignoring
the creak his damn knee decided to dignify them both with at the
move. “So I’ll ask right now Obi-Wan, be mine? Let me take you to
the alter?” Qui-Gon rumbled out.

Obi-Wan stared at
him for a long moment, blinking wetly before laughing shakily. “How
can I do anything but say yes to such a passionate request Qui-Gon?
Of course. If you’ll have me, then I am yours for however long you
will have me.”

“Forever than?”
Qui-Gon smiled up at him, pressing a soft kiss to Obi-Wan’s hands,
rubbing them lightly to feel the calluses of sword dueling. “I’ll
get you a circlet with a ring and wed you as soon as I can but for
today… I would just like to have you close and let you heal and
rest.” He finally stood, wrapping his arms around him.

Nuzzling into
Qui-Gon’s shoulder, Obi-Wan let out a considering hum. “Its a
good thing I’ve been training my replacement. So if you’ll help
me get my tunic and coat on… I’d like to introduce you to her.”
He smiled kindly up at him.

It punched the
breath out of Qui-Gon, as the only reason Obi-Wan would need a
replacement was if he were to die and that… that had been to close
for comfort for him this last week since Obi-Wan got shot. So he
folded his arms a bit together around the smaller frame against his
chest, enfolding him protectively and keeping Obi-Wan’s stomach
hidden between them. “But not today.” Qui-Gon murmured.

Catching something
in the others eyes, Obi-Wan nodded. “Not today my Qui-Gon.” He
agreed, letting the Emperor help him dress the rest of the way.

Royal Protector – ohmygosh! does obi try to keep protectoring and suggest to keep the babys dad a secret? does qui retire obi and be like “nope, baby’s ours and i love you”? promote him from protector to consort? has obi been (maybe secretly?) training a replacement just in case something happened to him? oh the possibilities! whichever way you go with it, i looooove it!

Standing there
gaping as Obi-Wan continued dressing, Qui-Gon tried to wrap his head
around the others words.

He had expected to
fight with Obi-Wan now that the redhead was finally cleared to walk
around, he had expected to coax or cajole him into agreement but
instead Obi-Wan had hummed a soft ‘alright’.

Looking up from
where he was buttoning his shirt, Obi-Wan raised an amused brow at
him. “Did you really think I would continue to be your protector
now that I’m in a family away?” Obi-Wan said, brows raising high
as Qui-Gon colored a bit. “I know I can be stubborn Qui-Gon but I
had no idea I was even a bearer and now I’m… well I’m in a
fragile condition as much as I despise saying that.”

Shoulders slumping
from relief, Qui-Gon stepped closer to help Obi-Wan button up his
shirt, covering up the bandages on his stomach. “Thank the Force, I
was worried I’d have to argue with you. You are a stubborn and
willful man my Obi-Wan but forgive my foolish heart, I would never
risk you and our spark now that I know.” He murmured quietly as
large fingers nimbly tucked the brass buttons.

Pale hands covered
the large ones of the Emperor and Qui-Gon looked up slowly to meet
the others gaze. “There are many things I’m willing to risk for
your life, my own included. But I can’t think of my own anymore.”
Obi-Wan murmured softly, peering at him. “So now it all comes down
to this Qui-Gon… what happens now?”

Qui-Gon tilted his
head in bafflement, blinking at him as Obi-Wan peered up at him
earnestly as he squeezed the others hands with care. “What comes
now?” He echoed.

Rolling his eyes a
bit, Obi-Wan sighed. “Yes Qui-Gon, what comes now? What do I do? I
can’t be the Lord Protector anymore but I don’t have any other
standing nor do I have any other job or skil-” Qui-Gon broke off
Obi-Wan’s slowly starting ramble of panic with his lips, kissing
him sweetly while holding his hands before reaching up to cup his
face when he withdrew.

“Oh Obi-Wan, do
you think I would just set you aside? Let the child become a bastard
from an unwed union?” He gently thumbed at the others cheeks,
feeling the bristle of the beard beneath his fingers.

He could see
Obi-Wan’s face fill with sheepishness and watched him give a light
shrug.

“My Obi-Wan,
nothing more in the world would please me then to take you as my
prince consort. There is nothing else in this world that I could
possibly desire except you by my side and I was content with that as
my Lord Protector but that time has come to pass. And you may not
steam from royal blood nor may you come with riches or promise of
alliance, but few can doubt your loyalty to me and mine.” Qui-Gon
ducked down slowly, brushing his lips once again sweetly over the
others before slowly slipping down on a knee in front of it, ignoring
the creak his damn knee decided to dignify them both with at the
move. “So I’ll ask right now Obi-Wan, be mine? Let me take you to
the alter?” Qui-Gon rumbled out.

Obi-Wan stared at
him for a long moment, blinking wetly before laughing shakily. “How
can I do anything but say yes to such a passionate request Qui-Gon?
Of course. If you’ll have me, then I am yours for however long you
will have me.”

“Forever than?”
Qui-Gon smiled up at him, pressing a soft kiss to Obi-Wan’s hands,
rubbing them lightly to feel the calluses of sword dueling. “I’ll
get you a circlet with a ring and wed you as soon as I can but for
today… I would just like to have you close and let you heal and
rest.” He finally stood, wrapping his arms around him.

Nuzzling into
Qui-Gon’s shoulder, Obi-Wan let out a considering hum. “Its a
good thing I’ve been training my replacement. So if you’ll help
me get my tunic and coat on… I’d like to introduce you to her.”
He smiled kindly up at him.

It punched the
breath out of Qui-Gon, as the only reason Obi-Wan would need a
replacement was if he were to die and that… that had been to close
for comfort for him this last week since Obi-Wan got shot. So he
folded his arms a bit together around the smaller frame against his
chest, enfolding him protectively and keeping Obi-Wan’s stomach
hidden between them. “But not today.” Qui-Gon murmured.

Catching something
in the others eyes, Obi-Wan nodded. “Not today my Qui-Gon.” He
agreed, letting the Emperor help him dress the rest of the way.

AHHHHHHH! I know you just updated Royal Protector, but what a cliffhanger! Does the baby survive? Does Obi-Wan freak out when he learns of his bundle of joy? Will Anakin be able to curb his jealousy or does he slip into protection mode of his new sibling???? Inquiring minds want to know!!!! (You’re fabulous)

He
feels like shit when he wakes.

That
is Obi-Wan’s clear thought as his eyes feels like they have been
glued shut. It feels like the battle at Andor where he had gotten a
head wound bad enough to knock him out and had actually had mud dry
on his face.

He had
stumbled around blind until someone had taken notice of the survivor
and hurriedly gotten him out of the way and to a healer, his face
cleared up to the point where he could finally get his eyes open.

That’s
how he feels now, worn, aching, eyes glued shut with weakness in
every inch of his body as he slowly regains consciousness
and memory.

His
lovers smile in the sun as Qui-Gon glanced towards him, the sun
glittering on the end of a gun, his own panic and… right.

He’d
thrown himself between Qui-Gon and the bullet.

Obi-Wan
slowly becomes aware of one more thing that makes his heart race with
warmth. A large hand wrapped around his own, gently thumbing at his
wrist and pulse that tells him that Qui-Gon has been with him since
the doctors has allowed him in.

And he
is alive, Obi-Wan is alive and Qui-Gon is not injured badly if he is
sitting at Obi-Wan’s bedside as if he a royal guardian.

Slowly
he manages to wrench his eyes open, finding Qui-Gon peering at the
window of the room with a worn expression on his face, shadows around
his eyes that speak of a sleepless night with the sun shining into
the medical halls of the castle.

The
moment Obi-Wan croaks however Qui-Gon turns, his hand tightening on
his wrist as wide blue eyes meet his lidded green ones before Qui-Gon
gives a sob of shock and happiness, leaning in and over him to press
their lips together briefly before pressing several kisses to his
face, to his forehead, his eyelids and nose before he finally manages
to calm down. “Scare me like that again and I will lock you into a
damn tower.” Qui-Gon rasped, his hands shaking where both cling to
Obi-Wan’s hand.

“Wouldn’t.”
Obi-Wan rasped.

Chuckling
wetly, Qui-Gon brushed their noses together, the Emperor squeezing
gently. “No. But I would give you bodyguards. You…” He let out
a shuddering breath. “Obi-Wan I almost lost you.” He finally
settled on.

“My
Emperor.” Obi-Wan rasped, eyes serious even as Qui-Gon grunted
before the man shifted, calling for one of the doctors.

A
young looking devaronian
comes rushing over, two glasses in his hands.

One
has blessedly water that Obi-Wan carefully drinks with Qui-Gon’s
help as he’s helped up against the Emperor’s chest with Qui-Gon’s
steadying hand to hold the glass and the other glass has luke warm
poppy milk.

“Just
two sips Lord Protector sir, we don’t want to destabilize your
condition.” The man fluttered his hands nervously.

Confused,
Obi-Wan looked from him to Qui-Gon but obediently took only two sips
to help ease the pain of his body. “My… condition?”

Now
the devaronian looked awkward and looked more then just a bit
relieved to have the bowl back so he could have a reason to flee.

Frowning,
the redhead looked up at his lover and Emperor instead. “Condition?”

Stroking
Obi-Wan’s cheek slowly, Qui-Gon peered at Obi-Wan for a long moment
before smiling softly. “Obi-Wan, dear one, did you know you were a
bearer?” He questioned quietly in lieu of a proper answer.

Staring
at the other, Obi-Wan’s eyes widened as the implication of that
question hit him, his hand rushing to his stomach only to be caught
by Qui-Gon’s to avoid hurting himself more.

“Shh,
shh, no, its alright. Its alright. Dr Che said that… it was close
but…” He gave a breathy laugh. “It was so close but you
recovered. You live and it lives.” He pressed a tender kiss to his
cheek. “You didn’t even know.”

Shaking
his head a bit with the taste of poppy in his mouth, Obi-Wan tucked
more into Qui-Gon. “No.” He stuttered out, staring down at his
stomach as the larger man tucked his arm protectively around Obi-Wan.
“I didn’t. I had… I just… could she tell how old?” He
whispered as he felt the poppy affect him.

“About
six weeks.” Qui-Gon whispered, a hesitant hand slowly resting down
on Obi-Wan’s stomach, wary of hurting his love and wondering about
his reaction. But Obi-Wan only watched, his eyes slowly drawing shut
again thanks to the poppy milk, his eyes locked on Qui-Gon’s hand
on his stomach for the entire time with Qui-Gon tucked behind him on
the healing bed.

And
when Qui-Gon finally shifts enough to peer at his face, there’s
a smile on his lips even in sleep.

AHHHHHHH! I know you just updated Royal Protector, but what a cliffhanger! Does the baby survive? Does Obi-Wan freak out when he learns of his bundle of joy? Will Anakin be able to curb his jealousy or does he slip into protection mode of his new sibling???? Inquiring minds want to know!!!! (You’re fabulous)

He
feels like shit when he wakes.

That
is Obi-Wan’s clear thought as his eyes feels like they have been
glued shut. It feels like the battle at Andor where he had gotten a
head wound bad enough to knock him out and had actually had mud dry
on his face.

He had
stumbled around blind until someone had taken notice of the survivor
and hurriedly gotten him out of the way and to a healer, his face
cleared up to the point where he could finally get his eyes open.

That’s
how he feels now, worn, aching, eyes glued shut with weakness in
every inch of his body as he slowly regains consciousness
and memory.

His
lovers smile in the sun as Qui-Gon glanced towards him, the sun
glittering on the end of a gun, his own panic and… right.

He’d
thrown himself between Qui-Gon and the bullet.

Obi-Wan
slowly becomes aware of one more thing that makes his heart race with
warmth. A large hand wrapped around his own, gently thumbing at his
wrist and pulse that tells him that Qui-Gon has been with him since
the doctors has allowed him in.

And he
is alive, Obi-Wan is alive and Qui-Gon is not injured badly if he is
sitting at Obi-Wan’s bedside as if he a royal guardian.

Slowly
he manages to wrench his eyes open, finding Qui-Gon peering at the
window of the room with a worn expression on his face, shadows around
his eyes that speak of a sleepless night with the sun shining into
the medical halls of the castle.

The
moment Obi-Wan croaks however Qui-Gon turns, his hand tightening on
his wrist as wide blue eyes meet his lidded green ones before Qui-Gon
gives a sob of shock and happiness, leaning in and over him to press
their lips together briefly before pressing several kisses to his
face, to his forehead, his eyelids and nose before he finally manages
to calm down. “Scare me like that again and I will lock you into a
damn tower.” Qui-Gon rasped, his hands shaking where both cling to
Obi-Wan’s hand.

“Wouldn’t.”
Obi-Wan rasped.

Chuckling
wetly, Qui-Gon brushed their noses together, the Emperor squeezing
gently. “No. But I would give you bodyguards. You…” He let out
a shuddering breath. “Obi-Wan I almost lost you.” He finally
settled on.

“My
Emperor.” Obi-Wan rasped, eyes serious even as Qui-Gon grunted
before the man shifted, calling for one of the doctors.

A
young looking devaronian
comes rushing over, two glasses in his hands.

One
has blessedly water that Obi-Wan carefully drinks with Qui-Gon’s
help as he’s helped up against the Emperor’s chest with Qui-Gon’s
steadying hand to hold the glass and the other glass has luke warm
poppy milk.

“Just
two sips Lord Protector sir, we don’t want to destabilize your
condition.” The man fluttered his hands nervously.

Confused,
Obi-Wan looked from him to Qui-Gon but obediently took only two sips
to help ease the pain of his body. “My… condition?”

Now
the devaronian looked awkward and looked more then just a bit
relieved to have the bowl back so he could have a reason to flee.

Frowning,
the redhead looked up at his lover and Emperor instead. “Condition?”

Stroking
Obi-Wan’s cheek slowly, Qui-Gon peered at Obi-Wan for a long moment
before smiling softly. “Obi-Wan, dear one, did you know you were a
bearer?” He questioned quietly in lieu of a proper answer.

Staring
at the other, Obi-Wan’s eyes widened as the implication of that
question hit him, his hand rushing to his stomach only to be caught
by Qui-Gon’s to avoid hurting himself more.

“Shh,
shh, no, its alright. Its alright. Dr Che said that… it was close
but…” He gave a breathy laugh. “It was so close but you
recovered. You live and it lives.” He pressed a tender kiss to his
cheek. “You didn’t even know.”

Shaking
his head a bit with the taste of poppy in his mouth, Obi-Wan tucked
more into Qui-Gon. “No.” He stuttered out, staring down at his
stomach as the larger man tucked his arm protectively around Obi-Wan.
“I didn’t. I had… I just… could she tell how old?” He
whispered as he felt the poppy affect him.

“About
six weeks.” Qui-Gon whispered, a hesitant hand slowly resting down
on Obi-Wan’s stomach, wary of hurting his love and wondering about
his reaction. But Obi-Wan only watched, his eyes slowly drawing shut
again thanks to the poppy milk, his eyes locked on Qui-Gon’s hand
on his stomach for the entire time with Qui-Gon tucked behind him on
the healing bed.

And
when Qui-Gon finally shifts enough to peer at his face, there’s
a smile on his lips even in sleep.

So what comes next in Burning bird? Are they going start on the little birds now? since ObiWan implied his body needed time to prepare?

There was clearly
something on Qui-Gon’s mind from the way he was frowning faintly at
the air as the two had tea, a plate of scones between them. And even
before he had seen the frown, the invite to tea with Anakin missing
from the quarters were a big clue that Qui-Gon had something on his
mind.

Getting feed up,
Obi-Wan finally sighed and set down his mostly empty cup to give the
other man a stern look. “Will you just ask what’s on your mind
Qui-Gon? I promise I won’t be offended regardless what the question
is. Especially if its related to me being a starbird.”

Coloring a bit at
being caught so pointedly, Qui-Gon coughed a bit and nodded. “It
just occurred to me that, well.” He hesitated before taking a deep
breath as if to gather bravery. “You and Anakin are the last ones,
if you have children, how will they find mates?” Qui-Gon asked.

Raising his brow a
bit, Obi-Wan snorted. “Is that all, you’re worried potential about incest?”
He hummed, thrilling a bit in amusement before it drained away at the
serious expression on the others face.

“Obi-Wan… we
deal with enough horror and abuse that I do worry…” Qui-Gon
murmured.

Sighing a bit,
Obi-Wan reached out, settling his hand on the wrist of the other to
reassure him. “I wasn’t going to make a joke about it Qui-Gon, my
amusement steams from you seeming to think that me and Anakin are the
only starbirds left.” He smiled a bit when Qui-Gon startled.

“But you said
th-”

Smoothly cutting
in, Obi-Wan raised his chin. “I know what I said, but that was
before I learned of Anakin. If Anakin could exist out in Wild space
long before I was born even, than it is fully possible that there are
others out there, even pockets of hidden starbirds hiding out in Wild
space away from the Republic and just too scared to expose themselves
in case there are Sith still around. And that is where I hope for any
little birds I or Anakin have to find their mates.” He concluded.

Breathing out a bit
while thinking over it, Qui-Gon finally nodded. “But if Anakin is
able to have little birds as you say, you’re not both going to be
pregnant at the same time are you?” He frowned severely.

“Well… Anakin
doesn’t know how as you heard yourself. It is a triggered state to
induce fertility and create the… well womb. And that takes time.”
Obi-Wan explained. “Anakin will need to learn from me when I do it
how to do it himself so we won’t be pregnant at the same time…
honestly I don’t think the temple would have good of two starbirds
pregnant at the same time. We carry for a full year.” He mused
thoughtfully.

Pausing a bit,
Qui-Gon tilted his head slowly before shrugging. “Makes sense I
guess, it takes time to create a starbird of all things.” He
hummed.

“Well if I was in
my bird form it be different. I’d lay an egg but that would also
take time to hatch and would require either me or Anakin indisposed
until it hatches and to stay in our bird form until then.” Obi-Wan
explained, pouring a fresh cup of tea for himself. “I said it
before and I shall say it again, opposable thumbs are very
useful.”

There was a short
pause once again before Qui-Gon chortled quietly. “Yes I imagine
so, you do quite enjoy playing with Anakin’s hair.” He teased a
bit and outright barked a laugh when Obi-Wan pouted.

“He has curls!
The padawan haircut is so silly, he should grow it out but nooo he
just had to cut it when he came back to the temple from his mission.”
The redhead huffed.

“He’s keeping
that haircut until he finishes his trials.” Qui-Gon snickered
wickedly. “He said so himself.”

Pouting even more,
Obi-Wan grabbed one of the scones. “I know, I miss the curls. I
hope he grows his hair out long once he’s done.” He sighed
deeply.

“He most likely
will, he’s been damn chirpy about getting closer and closer to his
knighting, talking about all the things he’ll do.” Qui-Gon
chuckled. “Some of them involving you.” He teased a bit. “I do
believe he has celebration plans in mind already.”

Sitting back with
his own laugh, Obi-Wan shook his head. “I am not surprised.” The
redhead beamed, eyes sparkling in joy.

So what comes next in Burning bird? Are they going start on the little birds now? since ObiWan implied his body needed time to prepare?

There was clearly
something on Qui-Gon’s mind from the way he was frowning faintly at
the air as the two had tea, a plate of scones between them. And even
before he had seen the frown, the invite to tea with Anakin missing
from the quarters were a big clue that Qui-Gon had something on his
mind.

Getting feed up,
Obi-Wan finally sighed and set down his mostly empty cup to give the
other man a stern look. “Will you just ask what’s on your mind
Qui-Gon? I promise I won’t be offended regardless what the question
is. Especially if its related to me being a starbird.”

Coloring a bit at
being caught so pointedly, Qui-Gon coughed a bit and nodded. “It
just occurred to me that, well.” He hesitated before taking a deep
breath as if to gather bravery. “You and Anakin are the last ones,
if you have children, how will they find mates?” Qui-Gon asked.

Raising his brow a
bit, Obi-Wan snorted. “Is that all, you’re worried potential about incest?”
He hummed, thrilling a bit in amusement before it drained away at the
serious expression on the others face.

“Obi-Wan… we
deal with enough horror and abuse that I do worry…” Qui-Gon
murmured.

Sighing a bit,
Obi-Wan reached out, settling his hand on the wrist of the other to
reassure him. “I wasn’t going to make a joke about it Qui-Gon, my
amusement steams from you seeming to think that me and Anakin are the
only starbirds left.” He smiled a bit when Qui-Gon startled.

“But you said
th-”

Smoothly cutting
in, Obi-Wan raised his chin. “I know what I said, but that was
before I learned of Anakin. If Anakin could exist out in Wild space
long before I was born even, than it is fully possible that there are
others out there, even pockets of hidden starbirds hiding out in Wild
space away from the Republic and just too scared to expose themselves
in case there are Sith still around. And that is where I hope for any
little birds I or Anakin have to find their mates.” He concluded.

Breathing out a bit
while thinking over it, Qui-Gon finally nodded. “But if Anakin is
able to have little birds as you say, you’re not both going to be
pregnant at the same time are you?” He frowned severely.

“Well… Anakin
doesn’t know how as you heard yourself. It is a triggered state to
induce fertility and create the… well womb. And that takes time.”
Obi-Wan explained. “Anakin will need to learn from me when I do it
how to do it himself so we won’t be pregnant at the same time…
honestly I don’t think the temple would have good of two starbirds
pregnant at the same time. We carry for a full year.” He mused
thoughtfully.

Pausing a bit,
Qui-Gon tilted his head slowly before shrugging. “Makes sense I
guess, it takes time to create a starbird of all things.” He
hummed.

“Well if I was in
my bird form it be different. I’d lay an egg but that would also
take time to hatch and would require either me or Anakin indisposed
until it hatches and to stay in our bird form until then.” Obi-Wan
explained, pouring a fresh cup of tea for himself. “I said it
before and I shall say it again, opposable thumbs are very
useful.”

There was a short
pause once again before Qui-Gon chortled quietly. “Yes I imagine
so, you do quite enjoy playing with Anakin’s hair.” He teased a
bit and outright barked a laugh when Obi-Wan pouted.

“He has curls!
The padawan haircut is so silly, he should grow it out but nooo he
just had to cut it when he came back to the temple from his mission.”
The redhead huffed.

“He’s keeping
that haircut until he finishes his trials.” Qui-Gon snickered
wickedly. “He said so himself.”

Pouting even more,
Obi-Wan grabbed one of the scones. “I know, I miss the curls. I
hope he grows his hair out long once he’s done.” He sighed
deeply.

“He most likely
will, he’s been damn chirpy about getting closer and closer to his
knighting, talking about all the things he’ll do.” Qui-Gon
chuckled. “Some of them involving you.” He teased a bit. “I do
believe he has celebration plans in mind already.”

Sitting back with
his own laugh, Obi-Wan shook his head. “I am not surprised.” The
redhead beamed, eyes sparkling in joy.

Could we see more Freeforme? A trusted friend , like Ahsoka or Padme or Bail, babysitts little Waxer tonight, to let his parents have time for them, to see if they can connect again.

Cody is warm
against his side, a pressure Obi-Wan hadn’t believed he’d ever
have back less than a month ago.

Yet here he is, arm
wound tight around Obi-Wan’s waist in an all too familiar grasp
tinged with a bit of desperation and fierce protectiveness despite
being injured himself. Or well healing is a better word.

Cody still suffers
a bit for the chip removal but the medic’s are all positive that
the troopers should all make full recovery with only minor effects
still remaining from the chip in their brain. For Cody it manifests
mostly in muscle spasms here and there but even those are getting
better the longer he is awake and moving about.

And Obi-Wan adores
every moment he gets with him, gets with the father of his child.
There’s a soft kiss pressed to his temple and Obi-Wan tilted his
head to look at the other instead of the hearth they have settled in
front of in the rebel base.

Its primitive but
its warm and Obi-Wan enjoys the fire as its heat washes over their
bodies as they sit on the floor on a fluffy carpet in front of it.

Cody smiled at him,
soft and warm in the orange light before tugging lightly on his hip,
a silent encouragement that Obi-Wan no longer hesitates to follow as
he moves into the others lap and rests his head on the others
shoulder.

Its quiet, others
are moving around the same room and its by no means private for all
that Padme has Waxer and is looking after them but Obi-Wan is used to
this, not having privacy as back in the clone wars the troopers were
all around and Cody held him just so back then.

Time has changed of
course.

Obi-Wan’s body
has softened with birth and they are both older.

But the love is
back, the tender touch of his hand stroking Cody’s chest and
feeling the softness returned to himself when Cody nuzzles his nose
against his temple or strokes his back slowly.

Its not private,
but people let them be and that’s all Obi-Wan wants out of this
moment, to be let be and have Cody in his arms with their bellies
full of food from the mess and warmth on their bodies from the
hearth,

These things he
never thought he’d have as Cody whispers quietly into his ear
Mando’a words of love and affection.

He’d be content
to be in this bubble of peace if its not for Bail suddenly bursting
into the room, pale as a wraith and panting with his hands on his
knees as Obi-Wan sits up in Cody’s lap tense and the rest of the
alliance grow silent with unnerved anticipation as to what has
happened, each idea more ludicrous and horrible then the next in
their minds.

Bail’s words are
the last thing Obi-Wan expects to hear.

“The Emperor is
dead!”

There’s a moment
of breathless silence, of shock and then pandemonium breaks out as
everyone starts yelling all at once as no one quite believes the news
and Bail tries to answer all questions at once but is clearly
overwhelmed himself at the news.

Obi-Wan has no idea
how to feel as he sinks more against Cody.

But he has a clear
thought in his mind.

What has Anakin
done?