As Long As We're Together

by Michele W.

 

 

This is a Luke & Mara/Star Trek: Voyager crossover.  Guys, be warned, this is a mushy romance.  There are no space battles, superweapons, Imperials, Dark Jedi, or intricate plots.

 

Rated PG-13.

 

Disclaimer:  All Star Wars characters are the property of George Lucas and his sanctioned pro-fic authors.  All Star Trek characters are the property of Paramount.  Absolutely no money is being made off this monstrosity, only the enjoyment of playing in the Star Wars universe.

 

The majority of this story was written before The Hand of Thrawn series came out, so disregard anything that happened in those 2 stories.  It just took me awhile to finish it up.  (My pet peeve is when beginnings of stories are posted but never finished.) 

 

This is my first attempt at fanfic.  Both Star Wars & Star Trek fans, please overlook all technical inaccuracies in your favorite universes, both intentional and unintentional.  (i.e. I know Trek vessels probably have sonic showers, real water just worked better for my purposes).

 

I want to thank my friend Elaeia for all her invaluable suggestions, and to her and my other fellow Luke fans who encouraged me to continue. Please ask permission before posting this anywhere else.  Send comments to [email protected]

 

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Part I

 

        Luke Skywalker was spending his last night on Coruscant with the Solo family, minus Leia, who was at a late committee meeting.  Tomorrow he would return to Yavin IV for the beginning of a new semester.

        "So, Luke, who are you hitching a ride with this time?" inquired Han, after they sat down to dinner.

        "Well, I was going to go on the supply shuttle, but it's being delayed a week waiting on some special orders, and I really need to go sooner than that in order to make sure everything is ready for the new semester.  So I guess, if nothing else, I'll

ask Wedge if I can borrow a ship, though I don't especially like doing that."

        "Where's your X-Wing, Uncle Luke?" piped up Jaina.

        "It's still on Yavin, with Artoo.  I came to Coruscant with Lando, remember?"

        "Luke, I'm not sure what you'll think of this idea," began Han, "but, well, I was talking to Talon Karrde a few days ago, before he left for the outer rim, and he mentioned that Mara was planning on going to Yavin soon.  Perhaps..."

        "Mara?  Mara Jade?" interrupted Luke.

        "Of course Mara Jade.  How many Mara's do you know?"

        "Isn't one enough?  How soon was she leaving?  Do you think she'd even agree to let me ride with her?  And why didn't someone tell me she was going to Yavin?  Is she actually enrolling for classes, or does she have other business there?"

        "Whoa, there.  I think she's leaving any day now.  As to all those other questions, I guess you'll have to ask her," replied Han.

        "I'd better call Traffic Control and make sure her ship hasn't taken off yet.  Can I use your comm unit?"

        "Sure, kid, go ahead."

        Han felt Luke seemed surprisingly anxious to travel with someone who had once vowed to kill him.  Mara was a strikingly beautiful woman, but deadly and cold as ice nonetheless.

 

        Luke returned a few minutes later. 

        "The Jade's Fire is still docked, and Mara is there now.  The controller said she has requested departure clearance for tomorrow morning."  Luke glanced up at Han.  "I think I should talk to her in person.  Can you tell Leia I'll be back later tonight?"

        "No problem."

 

        Luke made his way to Docking Bay 16, and spotted Mara studying a datapad.  She glanced up and frowned as Luke approached.

        "Hello, Mara," Luke ventured tentatively.

        "What do you want, Skywalker?"

        "No 'Hi, Luke, glad to see you'?"

        "Very funny, farmboy.  Get to the point."

        "Okay, I heard you were leaving for Yavin in the morning.  I was wondering if I could ride along?"

        "With me?  Don't you have a ship?"

        "Not on Coruscant.  And it's going to be at least a week before another ship leaves for Yavin."

        "So the great Jedi Master needs a favor.  What's in it for me?"

        "Beside the pleasure of my company?  It never hurts for a student to do a favor for the teacher."

        "Who says I'm going to be a student?"

        "Then why are you going to Yavin?"

        "Oh, all right.  I am going to be a student.  I thought I'd finally finish my training."

        "Why didn't you just ask me?  I'd be glad to help you with your training."

        "I just wanted to do this on my own.  I didn't think you did any teaching anymore."

        "I don't, actually.  But I still like to address the new students, and I occasionally hold a special training class."

        "Sounds boring.  What do you do with the rest of your time?"

        "Not much, I guess.  Go on hikes through the jungle, advise the teachers, meditate a lot, the usual 'Jedi Master' type stuff," Luke grinned.  "So can I have a ride or not?"

        "Yeah, sure.  Maybe I'll get extra credit.  Be here at 07:00 sharp."

        "Thanks, Mara.  I'll see you then."

  Mara stared at Luke's retreating figure as he ambled away. 

She could swear she heard him whistling.  'What have I gotten myself into?'  she wondered.

 

        Luke returned to the Solos' home to say his farewells.  Leia had finally returned from her meeting, and expressed her misgivings about Luke traveling with Mara.

        "I can't believe you want to spend three days traveling through hyperspace with that woman."

        "She's not so bad, Leia.  I probably won't even see her much once we reach Yavin."

 

        Luke arrived at the Jade's Fire the next morning a few minutes before 7.  He admired the sleek lines of the beautiful ship.  Just like her owner, he mused.

        "What are you gawking at, Skywalker?"

        "Just admiring your ship.  I've never been inside, you know."

        "Well, it's time to get inside now."  She glanced at Luke's lone satchel.  "Is that all of your luggage?"

        "I travel light.  Shall we?"  He motioned to the ramp.

        "After you, farmboy."

 

        Mara frowned as Luke strapped into the co-pilot's seat.  "Comfy?"

        "Sure thing, Captain Jade.  Or did you want me to stay in my cabin for the entire trip?"

        "As tempting as that sounds, it's always easier flying with a co-pilot.  Ready for take-off."

        Luke quickly familiarized himself with the controls, and the ship gently lifted off and entered the atmosphere.

        "Coordinates set for Yavin," Luke announced.

        "Prepare for jump to hyperspace," came the reply.

        Luke gazed out the cockpit window.  "As often as I've done this, I still love seeing the star lines fly by."

        "Me, too," mused Mara, to Luke's surprise.

        "Really?"

        "You don't think I can appreciate the wonders of space?"

        "I didn't say that."

        "Did so."

        Luke sighed.  "Mara, I don't want to spend the entire trip arguing.  I apologize for my comment.  I guess I was just surprised that we have something in common, besides the fact that we're both Force-strong, young, attractive, single, athletic..."

        "Enough already," an unwilling grin escaped Mara.

        "...have a sense of humor, can swing a mean lightsaber..."

        "Enough!"  Mara laughed, as she swatted at him.

        By now Luke was laughing as well.  "Now isn't this better than arguing?"

        "Don't get used to it."

 

        The rest of the day progressed much the same way, though with perhaps more sarcastic barbs traded than good-natured humor.  After dinner, which consisted of ration bars and Luke's getting bopped for commenting, "Don't you have any real food on this ship?", they had pretty much run out of even hostile topics.

        "I'm going to my cabin," announced Mara.  "I've got some trading run business to work on."

        "I'll stay out here awhile yet," replied Luke.

        "I wasn't inviting you along," said Mara tartly.

        Luke just shrugged and grinned, which infuriated Mara even more.  She stormed off toward her cabin, and Luke swore he heard her mutter "Damn Jedi."

 

        Just then a strange feeling overcame Luke, and he stared out the cockpit window.

        "Mara, get out here!" he shouted, as he hurried to the helm controls.

        "What the..." Mara's eyes grew wide as she too gaped at the phenomenon in their path.

        "Drop us out of hyperspace!" she ordered, but even as she said it she knew it was futile.  It was impossible to go to realspace and change course in time to avoid this 'who knows what.'

        The ship lurched, as if being grabbed by an impossibly powerful tractor beam, and both Luke and Mara were knocked to the deck.  A few moments later, the ship seemed to be 'spit out' of whatever it was that had swallowed it.  Jade's Fire sat dead in

space, its two occupants slowly climbing to their feet.

        "What in blazes happened!"  Mara screeched.  "Did you touch something on the controls?" she accused.

        "No, I just looked up and saw this big hole looming in front of us," Luke protested.  "I didn't have time to get to the controls before it pulled us in."

        "We were traveling through hyperspace," Mara argued.  "How could we even see anything in front of us like that?"

        Luke was as baffled as she was.  "I don't know.  It was like a black hole, but we're still alive, so it couldn't have been that."

        "Are you sure we're alive?  Maybe this is how it feels to be 'one with the Force'?"  Even Mara wasn't certain if she was being sarcastic or serious.

        "I'm sure.  Your lip's bleeding, and I banged my knee pretty good."

        Mara touched her hand to her mouth and felt a trickle of blood.  She was also sore from her sudden encounter with the deck.

        "All right, so we're alive.  We still don't know what that thing was.  Some kind of interdiction field?"

        "I don't think so.  It was more like a vacuum that sucked us in, then spit us out," Luke answered.

        "Well, let's check for any damage, then resume course."

        They both went to the cockpit controls.  The ship's systems all seemed to be operational except for one, the navicomputer.

        "I can't get a fix on our location anymore," Luke said.

        "What do you mean?  We can't be more than a couple lightyears off from where we were before that thing pulled us in."

        "Apparently we are.  The navicomputer's self-checks show it's working, but it doesn't recognize our location."

        "Move over and let me see."  Mara practically shoved him aside.  She couldn't come up with any better results, however.

        "This is just great.  How are we going to re-plot our course?  I doubt we're even still headed in the same direction."  She glared at him.  "I'm sure this must be your fault."

        "You sound like Threepio," he quipped, causing her to glare even harder, if that was possible.

        "All right, O great Jedi Master.  How are you at dead reckoning?"

        Luke frowned.  "I'll try feeling for Yavin's presence."

        "Try not. Do," she retorted.

        Luke frowned again, then closed his eyes and reached out for the Force-senses of his students and teachers.  Nothing.  He took a deep breath, calmed himself, and reached out again.  Still nothing.  He should at least be able to sense Kyp, Streen, and the other Force-strong teachers, even from this distance.  It was as if Yavin had vanished.  He opened his eyes to find Mara impatiently drumming her fingers on the console.

        "Well?   Which way?"

        Luke didn't answer, but instead closed his eyes again and reached out for Leia's presence.  He could always sense her.  Always until now, that is.  He expanded his scope, searching for anything familiar.  A bit of panic was starting to creep in.  He opened his eyes and looked at Mara.

        "Which way?"  she repeated, more harshly this time.

        "I...I can't sense anyone.  Not anyone on Yavin, or Coruscant.  Not even Leia."

        Mara could feel his anxiety.  "Are you sure you still have your Force powers?  Maybe there's ysalimiri around."

        Luke glared back at her, then levitated Mara a few centimeters out of her seat.  "Yes, I still have Force powers."

        "I believe you.  Put me down.  I'll see if I can sense anything."  Even as she said it, Mara doubted if she would have any better luck.  This was one of the areas, one of the many areas, in which Luke's skill far exceeded hers.  After several minutes of stretching out as far as she could, Mara shook her head.

        "I could at least feel sentient beings, but they were very far away, and they felt strange, unfamiliar," Luke offered.

        "I couldn't even sense that much," Mara admitted.

        "So now what, Captain?"

        "Well, we can't just sit here.  I guess we'll pick a direction and fly in realspace until we reach a planet or something."  This sounded lame even to Mara's ears.

        "And then we stop and ask directions?"  Luke chided her.  "You know we could travel forever before reaching anywhere.  Even if I can zero in on the beings I felt, I can't tell how far away they are.  But you're right, we just can't sit here."

        "So I'm asking for the third time, which way?"  Mara grumbled impatiently.

        Luke sighed, closed his eyes and briefly concentrated.  He then stood and looked out the cockpit window.  "That way," he announced, pointing slightly starboard.  "The minds I felt that way don't seem to be any closer than any of the others, but they felt the most human."

        "All right, that way it is," Mara acknowledged, unsmiling.  "Though I still think this only happened because I let you come along.  Bad luck follows you everywhere."

        "It does seem that way sometimes.  But cheer up.  If I wasn't along, you'd be stuck out here all by yourself."

        "And that thought is supposed to cheer me up?" Mara muttered.

 

        Luke and Mara continued on for several more days, occasionally changing course slightly based on Luke's feeling of the human-like minds.  Luke kept to himself as much as possible, as Mara's mood seemed to darken with each passing day.

        "Are you sure you're still sensing the same minds?"  Mara complained one day after their ration bar lunch.  "We've changed course six times.  Maybe you're confused," she said, though she secretly doubted it.

        "But have you noticed how we've changed course?  We keep adjusting in a starboard direction.  I think they must be on a ship, traveling at a fairly high rate of speed, but not lightspeed.  And we do seem to be getting closer," Luke defended himself.  "Perhaps in a few days we'll intercept them."

        "And hope they're friendly, and speak Basic."

        "Or at least something the universal translator can handle.  Say, to work off that delicious meal you prepared, how about a little lightsaber practice?"  Luke goaded hopefully.

        "Okay, farmboy, you're on," Mara answered, to Luke's surprise.  "Let's go to the cargo hold.  It's empty and big enough for a good workout."

        'She almost sounds eager,' Luke thought, as they each retrieved their lightsaber.  'Perhaps she's reviving that old death threat against me.'

 

        He expected Mara to be a worthy opponent, and she didn't disappoint him.  They battled for nearly two hours before Luke finally took advantage of an uncommon lapse in concentration from Mara and knocked her lightsaber from her grasp.  They both collapsed from exhaustion.

        "Whew!"  Luke exclaimed.  "You must have been practicing on your own."

        "Just with remotes.  I prefer a live opponent, though, especially when I wouldn't mind if I accidentally sliced off an extremity or two," Mara grinned wickedly, then abruptly changed to a look of dismay when she saw Luke's face.  Gods, how could she say something like that to him?  He just sat there staring at his right hand, flexing it slightly.

        "Oh, Luke, I'm so sorry.  I didn't mean it.  I wasn't thinking," Mara gushed apologetically.

        He looked up at her and smiled weakly.  "It's okay.  You'd think I'd be over it by now."

        He held out his right hand and her lightsaber flew into it. Her lightsaber.  Formerly his lightsaber.  Formerly his father's lightsaber.  It had been a long time since he held it, but it still felt comfortable in his grip.

        Mara edged slightly closer.  "Have you ever regretted giving it to me?"

        "Never," Luke quickly responded.  "I just pray it brings you better luck in battle than it did me."  Of course, Luke knew that luck, good or bad, had nothing to do with his defeat that day.  He handed the lightsaber back to Mara, got up quickly and left.

        Mara continued sitting on the deck, holding the lightsaber.  She had never seriously thought about the day Luke had lost it.  The day he lost everything -- his hand, his youth, his innocence, his faith in Kenobi, his vision of a brave Jedi father who died in battle.

        *Don't feel sorry for me, Mara* she heard in her head, instantly realizing she had unconsciously let her barriers down.  *You've had it a lot worse.*

        Irritated, Mara slammed her barriers up to keep him from hearing her thoughts.  Trouble was, she wasn't sure if she was more irritated at him or at herself.

 

        After a couple more days of engaging in only superficial conversation, Luke unexpectedly stared off into space.

        "They're close," he murmured.  He glanced at Mara.  "Check your sensors."

        Mara looked at the controls and replied, "I detect a ship, fairly large, unknown design, heading 269.3."

        "So they surely can detect us too.  Let's send a distress signal when we're in visual range."

        "Distress signal?  I didn't know we were in distress," said Mara hotly.

        "Sorry, I don't know the proper signal for 'We're lost.'  Besides, you've seemed pretty distressed lately," countered Luke.

        "Oh, all right.  Send your signal.  But you're doing all the talking."

 

 

On board the U.S.S. Voyager:

 

        "Captain, sensors detect a small vessel approaching, two life signs.  They're emitting a repeating message on a frequency we've not encountered before in this quadrant," reported Lt. Cmdr. Tuvoc.

        "On screen, Mr. Tuvoc," ordered Captain Janeway.

        On the main viewscreen there appeared a small craft, perhaps a cargo ship.  It was bright red, with orange flames painted on the sides.

        "Wow!" exclaimed Tom Paris.  "Will you look at that!"

        "It is impressive," agreed the Captain.  "Commander," she continued, turning to Tuvoc, "try hailing them."

        "Audio only, Captain," he replied.

        "This is Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Federation Starship Voyager.  Do you require assistance?"

        After a few seconds, she received a reply.  Luckily the universal translator was able to handle the unfamiliar language, as it had throughout Voyager's journey.

        "This is Luke Skywalker of the Jade's Fire.  As a matter of fact, we could use some assistance.  We're having trouble with our navicomputer."

        "Of course.  Come along side and we'll beam an engineer aboard.  Or if you prefer, we can beam you to our ship first to discuss your problem."

        Mara and Luke exchanged puzzled glances and shrugged.

        "I'm afraid we're not familiar with the term 'beam.'  Is it not possible to dock with your ship?" Luke put forth.

        Likewise, on Voyager, Captain Janeway exchanged puzzled looks with her bridge crew.

        "We do not have docking facilities for a ship your size.  We could tractor you into one of our landing bays, Jade's Fire," replied the Captain.

        *They are NOT using a tractor beam on my ship,* Luke heard in his mind.

        "Voyager, if you tell me which landing bay to use, I can land in it.  A tractor beam isn't necessary," ventured Luke, hoping they would agree.

        Eyebrows raised on most of Voyager's bridge.  They all knew how tricky piloting into a landing bay on a moving starship was.  It was a Starfleet test that most pilots needed many tries to accomplish.

        "Jade's Fire, I assume you have experience with such a landing?" inquired Janeway, more than a little skeptical.

        "Affirmative, Voyager, I've done it many times," replied Luke.  Though not in this ship, he thought to himself.  Realizing he had not asked Mara's permission for, or even opinion of, such a maneuver, he looked at her questioningly.

        "Go right ahead, hotshot.  You're the one who volunteered."

        "Very well, Jade's fire," came Captain Janeway's voice.  "Use Bay 6 on the port side.  It will be illuminated for you.  Janeway out."

        "Thank you, Captain.  Jade's Fire out."

 

        Lt. Paris turned to his captain.  "Permission to go to Bay 6 and observe their landing, Captain?"

        "I wouldn't mind observing this myself," added Commander Chakotay.

        "So would I," came from Ensign Kim, "Captain, Ma'am."

        Janeway smiled.  She could understand their eagerness to see how this unknown pilot would fare.  She just hoped he didn't put too many scratches on the docking bay's portal.

        "Very well, you may all accompany me.  Mr. Tuvoc, you have the bridge.  Unless you wanted to come too?"

        "Not necessary, Captain.  I'm sure I will receive a full report from the rest of you."

 

        Luke headed the Jade's Fire toward the illuminated landing bay.  "Well, is that finely honed danger sense picking up anything?" he inquired of Mara.

        "No, it's not.  I just hope we're not flying straight into the rancor's mouth.  How about you?"

        "I sense no ill-will or malice, only good intentions and a genuine willingness to help us.  Though I believe they will exercise caution toward us.  And they seem pretty perplexed that we didn't know what this 'beaming' business was."

        "I agree.  So how much do we divulge about ourselves?  I'm hoping we can just ask directions and head for home," replied Mara.

        "I hadn't planned on mentioning anything about being Jedi.  I myself prefer to blend in.  They may not even know what a Jedi is."

        "They didn't seem to recognize your name, at any rate.  So we're just two unfortunate space travelers who accidentally got caught up in some kind of spatial anomaly," Mara observed.

        "Which is exactly what happened, of course.  I doubt we'll be here more than a few hours, a day at the most," responded Luke.  "Coming up on the landing bay now."

        "Not a scratch, Skywalker."

        "Aye, aye, Captain Jade."

 

        The Voyager crew was in the glassed-in observation platform as the Jade's Fire gracefully entered the landing bay.  Luke flew the ship in exactly through the middle of the open bay door, then more gently than anyone believed possible, lowered the ship down. Not a sound could be heard as the landing struts made contact with the deck.

        "Very impressive," murmured Chakotay.

        "Amazing," echoed Paris and Kim.

        "I agree," added the Captain.

        "Jade's Fire," she spoke through the comm.  "Please remain aboard during the decontamination cycle."

        "Affirmative, Captain," Luke acknowledged.

 

        Mara began strapping on her forearm blaster.  Luke looked at her in consternation.

        "You can't wear that!  Don't you think they'll scan us for weapons?  How can we expect them to trust us if we come out wearing weapons?"

        Mara grimaced.  "How can we trust them?  Are you leaving your lightsaber behind?"

        Luke hesitated.  He rarely went anywhere without his lightsaber.  It had become part of him.  But in this case...  "Yes, I'll leave it in my cabin.  Satisfied?  Besides, we're Jedi.  There are many ways of defending ourselves."

        Mara glared at him, but she knew he was right.  They surely would detect her blaster immediately, then probably throw them in the brig.  Without saying anything, she unstrapped the holster and stowed the blaster in her cabin.

        "Jade's Fire, the scan is complete.  You may disembark," came a voice over the comm.

 

        Janeway and the others had come down into the landing bay itself.  They watched as the ramp lowered and a woman walked out, a beautiful green-eyed woman in a snug-fitting jumpsuit, with luxurious reddish-gold hair in a loose braid down her back.

        'Whoa, what a babe!' thought Ensign Kim.

        'Hot, Hot, Hot!' echoed Lt. Paris in his mind.

        Even Cmdr. Chakotay was unnerved by the woman's fiery good looks.  The woman glared at all of them as if she could read their thoughts.  Right behind her followed a man, about the same age, with dark blonde hair and piercing blue eyes.  He was dressed all in black.

        Captain Janeway strode forward and extended her hand. "Greetings, I am Kathryn Janeway, captain of Voyager."

        Luke took her hand and shook it, replying, "I'm Luke Skywalker, and this is..." turning to Mara.

        "His wife, Mara," his companion answered smoothly.

        It took all of Luke's Jedi skill not to drop open his mouth in astonishment.  *I'll explain later* he heard in his mind.  Luke tried his best to pay attention as the Captain was introducing her accompanying officers.

        "We haven't met any other humans in this quadrant," Captain Janeway was saying, as Luke stole a glance at Mara, but she wouldn't look at him.  "Won't you please come with us to our conference room?  We'd love to hear where you're from, and we'll be glad to help with your navigational problem if we can."

        As Luke and Mara followed them down a corridor, Luke thought to Mara, *All right, what was that all about?*

        *Didn't you hear what all the male crewmen were thinking about me?  The last thing I want is to have every man on this ship having the hots for me,* Mara explained impatiently.

        *So you thought they would leave a married woman alone?  Am I the lesser of two evils?  And you know I don't like being deceitful.*

        *Oh, Skywalker, you don't have to be so noble all the time.  Pay attention, the Captain is talking to you.*

        It was rather difficult to carry on a silent conversation with Mara and an active one with the Captain and her party at the same time.

        "You have a beautiful ship, Captain Skywalker.  Perhaps you will allow us a look inside?" ventured Janeway.

        "Oh, I'm not the captain," Luke answered.  One fabrication was enough.  "It's Mara's ship."

        "Yes, but I let him pilot once in a while," Mara put in.

        "Well, that was by far the smoothest landing I've ever seen anywhere," Chakotay complimented Luke.

        "Thank you, Commander," Luke replied.

 

        By then they had reached the conference room, where they were joined by Lt. Cmdr. Tuvoc and Lt. Torres.

        "So, where are you two from?" ventured the Captain.

        "Coruscant," replied Luke.

        "I'm not familiar with that planet.  Is it in the Delta Quadrant?"

        "No.  Is that where we are?  Our navicomputer couldn't determine our location, and none of the star patterns were familiar."

        "So how did you get here?" spoke up Lt. Torres.

        "We were traveling through hyperspace when Luke and I saw some kind of anomaly right in our path.  It sucked us in, and seemed to spit us out here, wherever here is," Mara explained.

        "How long ago was this?" inquired Captain Janeway.

        "About five standard days ago," Luke replied.  "We've been traveling with sub-light engines hoping to meet up with someone who could assist us."

        "That could have taken some time.  Lucky we came across your ship," said Cmdr. Chakotay.   Of course, Luke knew luck had little to do with it; he had tracked their minds across space.

        "Yes, it was," he replied.

        *Now who's not being completely honest?* he heard in his mind.

        "That sounds similar to what brought us here," commented

Ensign Kim.

        Voyager's crew related how a plasma storm hurled them 70,000 light years away, landing them in the Delta Quadrant, and the long voyage home that was ahead of them.

        "This doesn't sound promising," Mara said.  "At least you know which way to go.  We don't even know which direction our galaxy is, or how far away we are."

        "You're welcome to all our star charts," the captain offered.  "And we can cross-match your own charts with ours.  Ensign Kim, I am assigning you to this project.  You've done the most work mapping this region."

        "Aye, aye, Captain.  I'll be glad to work on this.  Request permission to have Seven of Nine help.  The Borg have been to many other systems that we don't have charts on."

        "Granted."  She turned to Luke and Mara.  "I'll have Lt. Paris show you to some quarters."

        "We don't want to inconvenience anyone," protested Luke.

        "We didn't expect to be here that long," added Mara.

        "It's no inconvenience.  Even if you aren't here long, you must be tired from your trip.  We have many empty cabins.  And we look forward to hearing all about your galaxy.  I do request, however, that you both have a routine physical exam.  Just to make sure there are no side effects from your ordeal.  If you don't mind, I'll have Tom take you to sickbay first."

        "Of course, Captain.  Quite understandable," Luke agreed.

        *I don't like physical exams,* Mara sent to him in protest.

        *It won't hurt you,* he shot back.  *Refusing wouldn't look good.  Besides, we have nothing to hide that an exam could pick up.*

 

        Even Mara agreed that the exam was relatively painless, consisting of the doctor running a scanner over them.  They were surprised to find the doctor was a hologram.  They also noted the lack of droids anywhere on the ship.

        "I will have to share these results with the Captain, you understand," the Doctor told them.  "Standard procedure.  But I foresee no problems."

 

        Later, after they left, Captain Janeway entered sickbay.  "Well, how did our two new visitors check out?"

        "They are both human, and they are both in remarkably good physical condition.  Each has had one or two broken bones that mended some time ago.  Luke's skeletal structure shows signs that at one time he was hit by a jolt of electricity, perhaps even lightening, but it must have been years ago.  Mara also, but to a lesser degree.  The only thing really worth noting, is that Luke's right hand is a prosthetic."

        "Prosthetic?  I shook his hand when they arrived.  I didn't notice anything unusual," Janeway observed.

        "It's quite advanced technology, similar to the construction of Lt. Cmdr. Data of the Enterprise, only more sophisticated.  He said he lost his biological hand in an accident about sixteen years ago.  He didn't seem to want to talk about it."

        "Well, I suppose that's understandable.  Thank you, Doctor."

 

        Tom led Luke and Mara back to the Jade's Fire to gather some of their personal belongings.  Mara kept him occupied showing him the cockpit while Luke hurriedly moved his gear into Mara's cabin, so Tom wouldn't notice they had two separate cabins.  He needn't have worried.  Tom was so entranced by both the sleek ship and her owner that he wouldn't have noticed anything else.

        Finally, after Mara stored her gear in a bag with Luke's, blasters and lightsabers included, they proceeded to the guest quarters.  As they had hoped, they were not scanned for weapons this time around.  When they reached their destination, Tom showed them the security code for entering, then ushered them into their new quarters, which consisted of a large common room with kitchen facilities to one side, a bedroom and a refresher.

        Luke and Mara's eyes widened.  "All of this is for us?" Luke asked.

        "I was expecting one small cabin with bunk beds," laughed Mara.

        "Everyone on board has quarters similar to this," explained Tom.  "This is an exploration vessel and Starfleet wants its crews to be comfortable on long journeys.  Though no one expected our journey to last years."

        Tom proceeded to show them all the amenities available to them, even apologizing for the limited access necessary for the replicators.

        "But Neelix, who does the cooking, creates some, uhm, interesting dishes from what we grow in hydroponics, and also from what he scavenges from the planets we visit.  I'll be back in about an hour to show you to the mess hall for lunch."

        Tom had given them each a comm badge already, and told them to contact him if they needed anything.

 

        After he left, Luke wandered to the computer console, while Mara inspected their quarters in more detail.

        "This is like a luxury hotel," she commented.  "Quite a change from the monk's cell you live in on Yavin.  Even your apartment on Coruscant is pretty sparse, I've heard."

        "I have everything I need.  And who's been describing my apartment to you?"

        "Never mind," she retorted.  Mara wandered into the bedroom. 

        "There's only one bed!" she called out to Luke.

        "What did you expect?  You're the one who told them we were married."

        Mara glared at him.  "I didn't expect to be staying overnight.  You're the one who said we'd probably only be here a couple hours."

        Luke relented.  "All right, I'll take the couch.  You can have the bed."

        "I suppose we could at least take turns," Mara replied.  "You're right, if I hadn't said I was your wife, we'd each have quarters like this."

        "I think this looks quite comfy.  It's not every day that I get to shack up with a 'hot babe'."

      "You did hear what they were thinking!" she exclaimed, as she threw a pillow at him.  Luke dodged it easily, laughing.  By the time they had stored what little gear they had brought from the ship, Tom arrived to take them to the mess hall. 

        "I believe today's entrée is stewed garbo root," he joked.

        *You should be right at home,* Mara thought to Luke.

        *You may have ration bar withdrawal,* he shot back.

 

 

      When they arrived at the mess hall they got in line with trays.  Neelix was an alien unlike any of the others they had encountered so far on Voyager.  He was also different in that he did not wear a Starfleet uniform, though he did have one of their comm badges.

        "Afternoon, Neelix," Tom greeted him.  "I'd like you to meet Luke and Mara Skywalker.  They are going to be staying with us for awhile to work on some navigation problems."

        Luke felt Mara wince at being introduced as Mara Skywalker, but he wisely remained silent.

        "What is this concoction you're serving us today?" Tom joked.

        "This, my friends, is sautéed Obarian root and dried pentalu."

        "I think it looks pretty good," Luke commented.  He instantly took a liking to the strange little man.

        "Ah, a culinary connoisseur, how wonderful!" exclaimed Neelix.  "Though it appears your lovely wife doesn't share your opinion." 

        He hadn't missed Mara's wrinkling up her nose at the sight and smell of his creation.

        "Uh, Luke and I do have different tastes in food," she stammered.  She hadn't meant to offend him.

        "Don't worry," Tom interjected.  "We all had that same expression the first time we tried Neelix's cooking.  And the second time.  And the third time.  But eventually you get used to it." 

        They all laughed, as Tom directed them to a table where Ensign

Kim sat.

        "Good afternoon, Ensign," Luke greeted him.

        "Hi, and please call me Harry."

        Mara noticed right away that Harry was not eating the same thing that had been plopped on their plates; he had some kind of sandwich. 

        Harry followed Mara's gaze and chuckled.  "I didn't think my stomach would take it.  I had to scrounge up something on my own."  It surprised him that Luke seemed to be enjoying his meal.

        Soon, Lt. Torres, Cmdr. Chakotay and Lt. Cmdr. Tuvoc joined them at the next table.

        "So, what do you two do in your galaxy?  To earn a living, I mean," inquired B'Elanna.

        "I'm a trader.  I haul cargo for trade in my ship," Mara replied quickly.

        "Are you both traders?" Harry asked Luke expectantly.

        "No, I'm a teacher," replied Luke.

        "So you have to spend a lot of time apart?"  B'Elanna continued.  They were all curious about the newcomers.

        "Yes, too much," Luke smiled at Mara, who did not return the smile, but at least she didn't glare at him.

        "What do you teach?" inquired Chakotay.

        "Meditation, mostly," replied Luke smoothly.

        "You teach students how to meditate?" asked Harry.  "That sounds kinda..."

        "Boring," put in Mara.  Harry, Tom and B'Elanna agreed, but they were surprised to hear Mara say it.

        "I believe it sounds fascinating," countered Tuvoc.  "I meditate on a daily basis."

        "As do I, if at all possible," added Chakotay.  "Perhaps you could show Tuvoc and me some of your techniques."

        "I'd be glad to," grinned Luke.

        "Oh, please don't get him started, at least not when I'm around," groaned Mara.  "He can sit cross-legged in some trance for hours."

        "I take it you don't meditate yourself, Mara," asked Chakotay.

        "No, though it's not that Luke hasn't pushed me to.  I'd rather exercise or dance to clear my mind."

        "Maybe while these old stuffed-shirts are sitting around in trances, the rest of us can do something for exercise," put in B'Elanna.  "Do you play parrises squares?"

        "Never heard of it, but I'm sure I could learn," answered Mara.

        "Hey, I like to exercise too" Luke said.

        "You'll just have to play the winner," Mara challenged.  "After you're done m-e-d-i-t-a-t-i-n-g," dragging the word out. 

        This time it was Luke who did the frowning.

 

        After lunch, Harry took Luke and Mara to one of the science labs, where they began studying star charts, even cross-referencing those from the Fire.  From Luke and Mara's own observations and the Fire's recorders, they determined the anomoly disappeared immediately after depositing them in the Delta Quadrant.  A sensor sweep from Voyager proved fruitless; there simply was nothing there.  Several hours later, they were all feeling frustrated.

     "This is hopeless," complained Mara.

     "We can't give up, honey," Luke put in, emphasizing the last word.  She kicked him under the table, but Luke thought a sore shin was worth it.  She had started this 'I'm his wife' business.

 

        Harry and Luke, with Seven of Nine's help, spent day after day working on star charts, studying wormholes, anything that might give them a clue.  Mara, meanwhile, spend most of her time showing off her ship to B'Elanna and Tom.

 

        Luke woke early one morning.  He stretched out his legs, hitting the arm of the couch.  For once, he was glad he wasn't any taller.

        "Computer, what time is it?"

        "The time is 05:00."

        Too early to get up.  Too awake to go back to sleep.  He turned on his right side, then shifted to his left.  Finally Luke sat up, rubbing sleep from his eyes, running a hand through his tousled hair.  'I need a haircut,' he thought.  A haircut?  Here he was, sitting in the dark, on an alien spacecraft, in an unknown galaxy, and he was worried about needing a haircut?  'I must be losing my mind.'  Might as well get up.  Go exercise.  Something.

        Luke rose, then realized his clothes were in the bedroom.  And the 'fresher was off of the bedroom.  The bedroom where Mara was still sleeping.

        He padded silently into the chamber, then paused.  Light from the common area fell across Mara's face.  She looked so peaceful, so gentle, so... beautiful.  One slim bare arm rested on top of the covers.

        Luke finally tore his gaze away and turned toward the 'fresher.

        "I could give you a haircut, if you like," Luke heard from behind him.

        Luke turned around slowly.  He knew he hadn't been talking to himself aloud.

        "Uhh... Uhh...," he stammered, "if you want to... I guess... okay."

        Mara started to ease out of bed.

        "Right now?" Luke blurted out, grateful that she was at least wearing a sleeping shift.

        "Sure, why not?"  Mara stifled a yawn.  "I'm awake, you're awake."

        "I didn't mean to wake you," Luke apologized, as he located his tunic in the now illuminated room.

        "I don't think you did," she replied, wondering just what did wake her.  She saw Luke start to slip on the tunic.

        "Don't," she touched his arm.  "It'll just get hair all over it.  Sit down here," she motioned, as she pulled a stool into the 'fresher.

        Luke warily took a seat.

        "You have done this before, haven't you?"

        "No, not really.  How hard can it be?  I trim the ends of my own."

        Luke started to get back up.  "I think they have a barber on board.  I could just go there."

        She pushed him back down.  "Sit.  I promise not to scalp you."  She rummaged through her travel bag and withdrew a small vibro-clipper.

        Mara laid one hand gently on his bare shoulder.  Whether to steady herself or keep him from bolting, Luke wasn't sure, but a shiver ran down him nevertheless.

        "Now, let's see.  Where should I start?"  She slid the clipper next to his ear and started in.  Luke didn't dare move.  There was a time when Mara Jade this close to him with a potential weapon would have made him extremely nervous.  But not anymore.  Well, at least not for the same reason.

        "Relax," Mara soothed.  "You're so tense." 

        Her fingertips trailed over his shoulders as she moved in front of him.  Her sleeping shift wasn't quite see-through, but Luke thought it best he shut his eyes anyway.  He suddenly felt self-conscious without his tunic.  He felt vulnerable.  Why, he wasn't sure.  He'd occasionally gone shirtless while teaching his students in the Yavin heat.  For some reason, this was different.

        "How did you know I was thinking about needing a haircut?" he asked, forcing himself to ignore the tickling of the hair falling on his bare skin.  "I'm sure you were asleep before I came into the room."  He'd have felt it if she'd been awake and probing his mind.

        "I don't know, really.  I just... I guess I dreamed it."

        "Ahh."  That explained... nothing.  How could she dream his thoughts?

        "I wasn't eavesdropping on your thoughts," she went on.

        "I wasn't implying you were."

        "I know," she said quietly.  No argument.  No snippy retort.  Luke took a deep breath and tried to relax.  He didn't get very far.  His eyes flew open as Mara blew the loose hairs off him.  She stopped as his gaze found hers.  Time stood still for a moment, then Mara straightened up.

        "There, all done."

        "Thanks."

        "You'd better look in the mirror before you thank me."

        He stood and examined Mara's handiwork, though he found his gaze shifting to the petite redhead behind him.

        "Looks good," he complimented her.  The haircut did look good.  The barber looked great.

        She reached up to brush a stray lock from his back, causing him to jump.

        "I'm in your debt," he managed to get out as he backed away slightly, which was difficult in the decidedly close quarters of the 'fresher.

        "Well, I'm not ready for a trim, but I'll think of something," she winked.

        He had to get out of there, before... before...

        Luke edged toward the doorway.

        "Guess I better get dressed," he stammered.

        "Me, too."

        Luke grabbed up his clothes and went out to the common room.  He decided to go visit the pool for a swim, a nice cold swim.

 

        Mara leaned against the counter.  She picked up her brush and ran it absent-mindedly through her long tresses.

        Her offer to cut his hair had been innocent enough.  At least in the beginning.  Being that close to him was unnerving.  She hadn't realized he was so muscular.  She was glad he had his eyes closed most of the time; he didn't see her gaze traveling up and down his physique.  And the powerful aura surrounding him was overwhelming.  Why had she never felt it this strongly before?

        Mara shed her shift and stepped into the bathing stall.  Men weren't the only ones who sometimes needed a cold shower.

 

 

        By the end of their second week on Voyager, even the ever-optimistic Jedi Master could see no solution to their dilemma.  He sat sideways on their couch, staring at the datapad in his hand.  Mara sauntered into the room and took a similar seat at the opposite end of the couch. 

        "You look pretty glum," she observed, poking his bare foot with her own.  He glanced at her and laid the datapad down.

        "Mara, we need to talk."  Mara could hear the seriousness in his voice.  He gazed into her bright green eyes and sighed.  "I'll never give up, but I just don't know what else to do.  I can't find any clue to the way home."

        "So we're stuck here?"

        "We don't have to stay on Voyager.  We could get on your ship and just fly off.  But in what direction?  Voyager has collected data from every region they've visited here in the last four years.  I've been reviewing it, looking for clues, and so have Harry and Seven of Nine.  I don't think any world we could go to would be better equipped to help us than Voyager has been."                                         

      Mara considered his words carefully.  "Then we may as well stay here, for now.  Captain Janeway said we were welcome to stay as long as we want."

      "I agree.  But I think we should offer to take on duties.  We can't expect to be treated like guests indefinitely."

        "I agree," replied Mara, then looked at him strangely.  "This is eerie.  We're agreeing on more things in the last two weeks than we have in the last ten years."

      Luke laughed.  "Well, to test that observation a little more, how much do you think we should tell them about us?"

        "Such as, we have Force powers, you're a Jedi Master, and we're not really married?  Things like that?"

        "Precisely."

        "What good would it do to tell them now?  Other than have them think we can't be trusted?"

      Luke nodded, but his thoughts were in conflict.  Jedi shouldn't lie.  It went against everything he believed in and what he taught his students.  Perhaps not revealing their Force powers wasn't really a lie, just an omission.  From a certain point of view.  But this business of pretending to be married.  Though Luke had never come right out and called Mara his wife, he had went along with the ruse.  Was that any different?

        Mara could read his thoughts.  She seemed to be getting better at that, the more time they spent together, or maybe Luke was letting his guard down.

        "I'm sorry I got you into that one," she apologized.  "If you want, I'll confess to Captain Janeway, and we can get separate quarters."

        Luke looked at her quite awhile before answering.  "No, let's leave things the way they are, if it's all right with you.  They may question everything we say or do otherwise.  Besides, I don't mind staying with you.  Unless you're wanting to distance yourself from me."

        It was Mara's turn to stare at him.  "I want to stay with you," came out in a rush.  She took a deep breath.  "Anyway, if they know we've been sharing these quarters, unmarried, they'll just assume that we've been..., that we're..."

        "Lovers?" Luke finished, instantly wondering what made him say that.  It suddenly seemed to be getting very warm in the room.  He hoped he wasn't blushing.  Mara seemed to be uncharacteristically speechless.

        Luke got up from the sofa and started pacing.  "All right, we ask the Captain if we can stay, and we ask to join the duty roster."  He stopped and looked at Mara.  "What do you think?"

        She had been thinking 'he's cute when he's nervous,' and then 'why in the worlds am I thinking that?'  She was glad she had all her barriers up.

        "Sounds fine."  This conversation definitely needed a new direction.  "Do you have a job in mind for yourself, if the Captain gives us a choice?"

        Luke relaxed visibly.  "I was thinking that Neelix could use help in the galley."

        Mara groaned, but was smiling at him.  "Just what we need, swamp stew every night."

        "So what about you?" Luke asked.

        "Maybe something in engineering," she replied thoughtfully.

        "Well, we'll go see the Captain in the morning.  I guess if we're going to be stranded, this isn't a bad place to be."

        Mara yawned.  "I think I'll turn in."

        Luke impulsively reached down and squeezed her hand.  "Goodnight, Mara." 

        She headed into the bedroom, as it was her turn.  Mara hadn't allowed him to take the sofa shift every night when he had offered.  "Goodnight, Luke," Mara whispered.

        Neither one of them got much sleep that night, each lost in their own thoughts, and all those thoughts were centered on the person in the adjoining room.

 

        After breakfast the next morning, Luke and Mara requested permission to see the Captain.  They entered her ready room at the time appointed them.

        "What can I do for you two?" Captain Janeway inquired, as she motioned for them to sit.  "Harry tells me you haven't had much luck in finding your galaxy in any of the star charts."

        "No, we haven't," Luke replied.  "And that's why we're here.  We have two favors to ask."

        "Go on," the Captain invited.

        "You've been very generous so far, allowing us to stay here, and we are grateful," began Luke.  The Captain nodded, but remained silent as Luke continued.  "When we first arrived, you said we were welcome to stay as long as we wanted.  We were hoping that offer still stood," Luke said as he glanced sideways at Mara.

        "Of course," smiled Captain Janeway.  "All of us are glad to have you.  As I said, we'd like to learn more about your galaxy.  And the other favor?"

        Mara spoke up, "We'd like to join the duty roster.  We feel like we're taking charity from you.  We want to pull our own weight."

        "Well, I don't want you to think we ever considered you charity.  But I can see that neither of you is the type to want to sit around while others are working.  So I will grant your request.  Did you have any preferences to the type of assignments?"

        Luke nodded at Mara, so she went first.  "I've been observing B'Elanna in engineering, and I worked for awhile as a hyperdrive mechanic.  I thought perhaps I could be of some use there."

        "I see," the Captain responded.  "And you," she turned to Luke.

        "My idea isn't quite so technically oriented," Luke began.  "I've noticed that Neelix seems extremely busy in the galley at meal times.  I would be glad to help him.  Of course, any tasks you assign would be fine."

        Janeway smiled at that.  "I believe that's an excellent idea.  I've never had anyone volunteer for K.P. before."

        "K.P.?"  Luke was puzzled.

        "Kitchen Patrol.  Old Earth military term.  And Mara, we'll see what we can do about your request."  She tapped her comm badge.  "Commander Chakotay, please report to my ready room."

        "At once, Captain," came the reply.  Chakotay entered a fewmoments later.

        "Commander, the Skywalkers have requested placement on our duty roster, and I see no reason to deny that request," Janeway smiled.  "They even had some ideas, which I'll let them explain to you.  Will you please see that they are assigned appropriate tasks, and on the same shifts?"

        "Of course, Captain," Chakotay responded.

        "Well, Luke and Mara, welcome to Voyager's crew.  At least until you find a way home."

        Luke shook her hand.  "Thank you, Captain.  We appreciate everything you and your crew have done for us."

        "You're welcome," replied Janeway, smiling.

        "If you'll follow me, we'll go check out the duty roster," said Chakotay as he ushered them out.

 

        Luke's request for mess hall duty met with surprise and immediate approval.  Neelix could indeed use the help.  There were no actual openings in engineering, though.

        "The Doctor could use assistance in sickbay however," Chakotay explained.

        Mara's face paled, but she heard in her mind, *These people are doing us a great favor just in allowing us to stay.  We can't act too picky.*

        "That would be...acceptable," Mara acquiesced.  "Though I've not had any formal medical training."

        Mara's expression didn't escape Chakotay's notice.  "How about you spend half a shift in sickbay, training with the Doctor, and the other half as an engineering intern, learning from B'Elanna."

        Mara's face brightened.  "That sounds fine, Commander.  When should we start?"

        "There's no time like the present.  I'd like you, Luke, to work in the mess hall 11:00 to 19:00.  That will cover the lunch and dinner meals, when Neelix is the busiest."

        "Very well," Luke acknowledged.

        "And Mara, I'll have you work in engineering from 11:00 to 15:00, then in sickbay from 15:00 to 19:00.  Of course, you'll both have time off for meals yourself."

        "Sounds fine," Mara replied.

        "Then I'll go make arrangements with Neelix, the doctor, and

Lt. Torres.  Be at your stations at 11:00."

        "Aye, aye, Commander, and thank you again," Luke answered.

 

        11:00 found Luke and Mara at their assigned duty stations.  Luke plunged right in, following Neelix's directions in preparing and serving that day's entrée.  He'd always enjoyed doing "real world" labor, as he called it.  Even growing up on Tatooine, he really didn't mind working with his hands, tinkering with ships and

droids and landspeeders, despite his rounds of whining and complaining to his Uncle Owen.  He even liked helping Beru in the kitchen.  She had instilled in him an appreciation of the art of creating palatable dishes out of what little they could grow.  That skill had sustained him during his years of bachelorhood.  But he was seldom allowed in the Academy's kitchens; Tionne and the other teachers thought it was undignified for a Jedi Master, the only Jedi Master, to be cooking and serving up swamp stew.  So Luke immersed himself in the delight of working with his hands, amid the joy of anonymity.

 

        Mara, meanwhile, was also enjoying herself.  B'Elanna took her from station to station, giving her a preliminary overview of the general workings of the engineering department.  Mara learned that many of Voyager's systems were not much different than those of ships in her galaxy.  The only thing that troubled her was when she suddenly realized she was looking forward to sharing her newfound knowledge with Luke.

 

        About 13:00, B'Elanna suggested they take a lunch break.  As they entered the mess hall, Mara noticed Luke behind the counter and smiled.  He looked happy and content, more relaxed than she'd ever seen him in the ten years she'd known him.  He had carried the weight of the galaxy on his shoulders ever since becoming a Jedi, and it showed in the troubled lines on his face.  Now those lines had all but disappeared.

        Luke glanced over and saw Mara watching him.  He smiled and waved.  He found Mara, well, absolutely captivating.  Though she'd probably kill him to hear him thinking such a thing.  And she'd actually been friendly toward him in the last two weeks.

        Neelix came up beside Luke.  "You, my friend, are one lucky man," observed Neelix, as he followed Luke's gaze.

        "What?" Luke was startled out of his reverie.

        "You have a beautiful wife who is enamored with you."

        "Mara?" Luke was surprised.

        "Of course.  I can see it in her eyes.  She's proud of you, proud to be your wife, and completely in love with you."

        Luckily for Luke, Mara and B'Elanna reached the counter by then, saving Luke from having to reply.

        "Hi, there," Mara greeted him.  "You look like you're having fun back there."

        "Uh, yes, I am," stammered Luke.  He couldn't keep Neelix's words out of his mind, and he was careful to keep his mental barriers up.

        "You can take a break now, Luke," Neelix was saying to him.  "Go join your wife for lunch."

        Luke glanced at his 'boss.'  "Thanks."

        Luke filled a plate for himself and joined Mara and B'Elanna at their table.  Soon Tom ambled over and sat opposite B'Elanna.

        Mara launched into a detailed description of everything she'd learned.  Luke fixated on her face, though he was finding it hard to concentrate on what she was saying.  Neelix's earlier comments had shaken him.  He knew it couldn't be true, of course.  Mara could never love him.  No, it was ridiculous.

        "Luke? Luke?" Mara reached over and swatted him on the arm.  "Are you listening to me?"

        "Sure, Mara, of course I am."

        "So what did I just say?"

        Luke gave her a blank look.

        "Just as I thought," though amazingly she looked more amused than angry.  "I asked if you were ready to learn to play parrises squares.  Tom and B'Elanna challenged us to a match tonight."

        "I guess so.  All right, sure," Luke answered, as he took in the grins on Tom and B'Elanna's faces.

        *Where is your mind today?* he heard Mara ask him silently.  *Did something happen I need to know about?*

        *No,* He thought back quickly.  *Not at all.*

        Mara gave him a strange look.

        "Meet me here for dinner at the end of your last shift?" Luke asked her, trying to change the subject.

        "Okay," she answered, still wondering what had gotten into him.

 

        Mara and B'Elanna headed back to engineering.

        "Luke seemed a little distracted at lunch," commented B'Elanna.

        "So I noticed."

        "But it's still obvious how much in love with you he is.  He's really got you on some pedestal."

        Mara suddenly stopped walking.  "It is?  He does?"

        B'Elanna laughed.  "Of course.  He's your husband.  This is a good thing."

        "I know, I know.  He's just, uh, he's usually shy about showing his feelings in public.  Don't say anything to him."

        "All right," B'Elanna shrugged.

        Now it was Mara who was distracted the rest of the afternoon, even during her training sessions with the doctor.  How could B'Elanna even imagine something like that?  She doubted Luke would ever love again, after Callista.  This was definitely the most ridiculous thing she had ever heard.

 

        When Mara reached the mess hall just after 19:00, Luke was already seated at a small table waiting on her.  After collecting her tray she sat down opposite him.

        "Hi," he said warmly.

        "Hi yourself."

        "How did the sickbay training go?"

        "All right."  Mara tried to sense any abnormal emotions coming from him, but he was keeping his barriers up tight and his gaze locked onto his tray of food.

        "So what time is this parrises squares match?"

        "In an hour.  So eat light."

        Luke just nodded.  The rest of the meal was mostly silent, each of them lost in their own thoughts.

 

        After dinner, they retreated to their room, changed clothes, and headed to the recreation level.  Both were secretly glad for this diversion.  It would have been awkward sitting in their room alone together.

 

        Luke quickly picked up on how the game was played.  He and Mara were giving Tom and B'Elanna a run for their credits, even without using the Force.  The tense moments from earlier had all but disappeared.

        Serve, slam, return, serve.  The match continued for over an hour.

        "Mine!" Luke shouted, as B'Elanna returned his serve.

        "I've got it!" Mara called, as Tom miraculously returned Luke's volley.  The disk ricocheted off the ceiling, then the wall, unfortunately in a different direction than Mara was anticipating.  She just missed making the return.

        "Game and match!" shouted Tom triumphantly.

        "Can I help it I have a partner as slow as a Hutt?" Luke laughed.

        "Who are you calling a Hutt?" Mara rejoined, laughing just as hard.  With that, she unexpectantly jumped on Luke's back, wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. 

        "Am I as heavy as a Hutt, too?" she kidded him, as he pretended to stagger under her weight.

        Tom and B'Elanna were doubled over in laughter, even though they had no idea what a Hutt was.

        Caught up in the fun mood, Mara leaned around to the side of Luke's head.  "Hutts have long tongues, remember," she said, then promptly licked his ear.  Nearly dropping her in surprise, he fell to his knees and they both rolled on the floor in mirth. 

        Luke found himself lying on top of her, their faces inches apart. 

They stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity, until they suddenly remembered Tom and B'Elanna were still present.  Luke scrambled to his feet, then helped Mara up.  Mara glanced over at their victorious opponents.  "We'll get you next time," she challenged, though she wanted to hide in embarrassment.

        "Sure," B'Elanna answered, "and then we want a full description of what a Hutt looks like."

        Mara grabbed Luke's hand and practically dragged him out of the court. "Goodnight," he called over his shoulder.  "Looks like we're leaving."  She let go of his hand as soon as they were alone in the corridor, but didn't speak.

        "That was fun," Luke commented, trying to get a response out of her.  Mara fumed.

        "Not another word," she ordered him, and wisely he complied.  What in the stars had come over her?  She couldn't even think of any way to blame this on him.

 

        When they reached their quarters, Luke showered first, while Mara fixed herself some herbal tea, hoping it would calm her and wishing she had something stronger.  When Luke was finished in the 'fresher, Mara brushed past him without a word.  The shower seemed to relax her, thankfully, as the tea had not.  When she emerged, she found Luke standing near their large window, staring out at the stars.  He glanced over as she entered the room.  They both wore loose-fitting sleep attire, were barefoot, with damp hair, though his tended to dry much faster than her long thick mane.

        Not wishing to remind her of anything to do with the parrises squares match, Luke brought up a subject he had been pondering on in recent days.

        "Mara, have you wondered what is happening back home?  I assume time is continuing on just like it is here."

        She came over and stood next to him, grateful for something else to think about.

        "I'm sure it is.  We've been gone nearly three weeks.  That would make us two and a half weeks overdue at the Academy."

        "Did anyone there know exactly when you were coming?" Luke asked.

        "Well, no, but they were expecting me by the beginning of classes.  How about you?"

        "Same here.  They probably thought I was coming on the supply shuttle, but that would have landed over a week ago.  I suspect they have contacted Coruscant by now," he mused.  "Leia must be frantic.  I can't sense her, so I know she can't sense me."

        "Do you think they've sent a search party?"  Mara wondered aloud.  "For you, that is.  No one would bother searching for me."

        "Mara, that's not true.  I'm sure they're looking for both of us.  Unless they think we just ran off together," he winked.

        "Oh, I'm sure that was Leia's first thought.  She doesn't like me or trust me."  Mara sighed.  "Karrde is somewhere in the Outer Rim by now.  No, no one else would even notice I'm gone.  No one would ever miss me."

        Luke turned and took her hand.  "I would miss you," he said softly.  "And I would never stop searching for you."  He reached up slowly with his other hand and cupped her cheek.

        "I'm glad you're here with me," she whispered.  She gazed deep into his eyes, then laid her hand lightly on his chest.  "If I have to be stuck in another galaxy, there's no one I'd rather be stuck with."  Her admission surprised even herself,

but somehow it felt right.

        Luke's only reply was to lean over and gently kiss her on the lips.  When he leaned back, Mara tightened her grip on his tunic and pulled him closer.  He let go of her hand and encircled her waist instead.  This time the kiss was deep and prolonged.  Mara relished the feel of him as her own hands traveled up and down his sides and back.  He was trembling, and then she realized she was too.  His lips moved to her neck as he ran his fingers through her hair.

        Luke gently pulled Mara to the floor, his lips never leaving her.  The desire in him swelled as he felt her soft, warm body beneath him.  He was overcome with the sensuality of her. Mara, for her part, could not believe this was the same Luke

Skywalker she had known for ten years.  He was both strong and tender at the same time, caressing her with his gentle touch and soft lips.

        Eventually they rolled over and she lay on top of him with her head on his chest.  Mara could hear Luke's strong heartbeat as he held her tightly and stroked her hair.  Neither spoke, but both had the same thoughts.  How far were they going to take this?

        Finally Mara broke the silence.  "It's your turn to have the bedroom tonight," she whispered, though she didn't think she could bear to be that far apart from him.

        Luke obviously felt the same way, as he whispered back,  "I would be honored if you would join me."

        Mara raised her head and nodded, "I accept."

        They both got to their feet, then Luke scooped her into his arms. 

        "Are you sure?" he said quietly.  He didn't want to pressure her.

        "I don't think I've ever been so sure of anything in my life," she answered, thinking that if he tried to back down now, her hold-out blaster was still hidden in her gear.

        Entering the bedroom, he set her down next to the bed.  Mara reached out and removed his tunic, and he returned the favor, pulling her nightgown off her.  Mara noted he was not blushing, as she had expected him to do.  He lightly caressed her, as she removed his pants.

        Luke used the Force to pull back the covers and they eased onto the bed.  Their lovemaking was slow and gentle, as neither wanted to rush the experience.  Afterwards, they drifted off to sleep in each other's arms.

 

        Luke awoke first the next morning, feeling slightly disoriented. Why was there hair in his mouth?  Suddenly his eyes flew open and he cautiously reached out next to him.  So it hadn't been a dream!

        Mara stirred at his touch and turned over to face him.  She popped open one eye, then abruptly sat up in bed, clutching the covers around her.

        Luke smiled up at her.  "Good morning.  I had the same reaction when I woke up just now," he chuckled.

        Mara lay back down and eased over closer to him.  She reached up and brushed the hair away from his face.  "Well, I guess we've gone and done it now," she observed.  "I suppose there's no turning back."

        A shadow of a frown crossed Luke's face.  "Did you want to turn back?"

        "Never," Mara replied firmly.  "I'm not letting you go."

 

        They spent the next several hours talking, touching, kissing, caressing, making love, and getting to know one another in ways they had never imagined.

        "We have to get up and get ready for our duty shifts, you know," Luke said reluctantly.  He swung his legs over the side of the bed and wrapped one of the covers around himself.  Mara smiled at his modesty.

        "You know, I'm seeing a whole new side of you, Skywalker," she laughed.

        "Would that be the front side or the back side?  To the best of my knowledge, both sides should be new to you, madam."

        "Um, perhaps I need another look," she teased, as she used the Force to yank off the cover around him.

        Luke lifted up one side of the sheet that still covered Mara. "I've been enjoying some new scenery myself."  He flung the sheet back and levitated the shrieking Mara into his arms.

       

        "Join me for a shower?" Luke invited.

        "Yes, I believe I could use someone to wash my back," Mara acknowledged.

        When they reached the shower, Luke set her down carefully.

        "You're a beautiful woman, Mara, both inside and out," Luke said softly.  He wasn't gazing at her perfect body though, he was looking deeply into her eyes, those endless emerald pools.  He traced her lips with his finger, then her cheekbones and forehead.

        "I love you, Mara," he whispered.

        Mara froze.  She could feel the sincerity that poured forth from him.  These were not words he took lightly.  These were words he'd only spoken to one other woman in his life, a woman who had then broken his heart.  How much courage had it taken him to finally say these words to someone new?

        Mara started to speak, not sure what she was even going to reply.  Luke put a finger against her lips.

        "You don't have to say anything now."

        Mara gratefully remained silent, a thousand thoughts running through her mind, none of them coherent.  Luke kissed her gently, but did not speak again.

 

        After their shower they dressed in silence, both stealing awkward glances at the other.   Finally, Luke gave Mara a hug.  "C'mon, Mrs. Skywalker, we don't want to be late for work."

 

Part II

 

Later that day:

 

        Luke smiled openly when he saw Mara enter the mess hall for lunch.  This time she came alone.  He fixed them each a plate of salad greens and joined her at a small side table.  He gave her a lingering kiss before sitting down.

 

        "I've missed you all morning," Luke began, not taking his eyes off her face.

        "I can tell," Mara smirked, "and so can the entire mess hall."

        Luke leaned back in mild embarrassment, as he realized they had become the center of attention.  Mara smiled slightly as she felt Luke direct everyone's thoughts away from them.   

        "Should I meet you here for dinner?" Mara continued.

        "I was thinking, if it's all right with you, I would bring something back to our room for dinner."

        "Hmm, dinner for two, alone.  I think I like the idea," Mara agreed.

        After a few minutes of silence, Mara spoke up.  "Luke, you don't think we're, well, rushing things, do you?"

        Luke looked at her in surprise, but the thought had crossed his mind too.  "We've known each other ten years.  I hardly think we could be accused of rushing anything."

        "I know, I know.  But last night just seemed so...sudden."

        Luke squeezed her hand and nodded.  "Maybe we just needed to be by ourselves, away from trading runs and academies and New Republic politics..."

        "And sisters and brothers-in-law and smuggling bosses," Mara continued.  "Who knows, we might have gotten together years ago."

        "Do you really think we were ready years ago?  Maybe it was our destiny to wait until now," Luke mused.

        "You think everything that happens to you is your destiny," Mara kidded him.

        "Don't you?"

        "I don't believe in destiny, or fate, controlling my life."  She looked him square in the eye.  "But I believe in us."

        Luke's only reply was to squeeze her hand again.

 

        Late that afternoon found Mara in sickbay, carrying out the second half of her duty shift.

        "Mara, would you please bring me those paradol samples?" asked the Doctor.

        "Of course, Doctor," she replied.  "Doctor, there's something I would like to ask you about.  Something personal."

        "Go ahead.  I am programmed for the strictest doctor-patient confidentiality."

        "Well, it's nothing that serious.  It's just that, Luke and I, well, we expected to be home weeks ago, so we ran out of..."  Mara was finding this rather embarrassing.  "We seem to be in need of some type of birth control.  Is it possible...?"

        "No problem at all," the Doctor replied.  "Believe it or not, that is needed on this ship on occasion."

        The Doctor outlined to her the various methods available.  She chose a hypospray that was effective for one month.

        "As soon as you finish your next menstrual cycle, you simply come in for another injection.  There are no side effects, and you may stop whenever you're ready to have children."

        Mara nodded.  Ready to have children.  Mara had never, before now, considered such a possibility.

        "I do need to administer a pregnancy test before giving the first injection," the Doctor was continuing.  "If you'll have a seat?"

        Mara sat as the Doctor ran a scan over her.  What if she was already...?  What would Luke think?  What would they do?

        "The results are negative," the Doctor was saying, jolting Mara out of her reverie.  "I'll prepare the hypospray."

        "Thank you, Doctor."  Mara exhaled the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding.  Perhaps she should have talked this over with Luke.  But surely he wouldn't object.  Even with all of his 'happy family' fantasies, they both knew they weren't ready to start making babies.

 

        The rest of the afternoon, Mara let her mind drift to her relationship with Luke.  Relationship?  Is that what they were in?  An hour ago, she was asking the Doctor for birth control.  Yesterday she was denying the idea that he could possibly be interested in her, and now she was anticipating sleeping with him on a regular basis.

        This can't be happening, Mara thought.  Why did he have to say he loved her?  She didn't want to be anyone's lover, least of all his.

        Mara felt herself panicking.  And Mara Jade did not panic.  This was all Skywalker's fault.  It was like he cast a spell over her.  She was no longer in control, which infuriated her the more she thought about it.  She would not let Luke Skywalker control her life.  Period.

        She would break it off tonight.  That's all there was to it.  Maybe they should even get separate quarters.  What's this 'maybe' business?  Of course they should.  It was time for this being married charade to stop.  Mara resolutely ignored the voice inside her that kept telling her she'd be miserable without him.

 

        At 19:00 Mara headed for their quarters.  She was greeted by her smiling 'pretend' husband.  He had dinner waiting on the small table in front of the couch.

        "That actually smells good," she said truthfully.  "Just let me change clothes."

        When Mara returned, she found Luke pouring them glasses of what looked like wine.

        "Synthesized Chablis," he explained.  "A gift from Neelix."

        "Not bad," Mara commented as she took a sip.  They sat on pillows on the floor, leaning against the couch.  Mara began picking at her food with her fork.  Why did it have to taste this good?  Why did he have to be so good at everything?  Why did he have to be so nice to her?  Mara suddenly felt Luke prodding her mind.  She looked up to see him staring at her.

        "Stay out of my head," she ordered sharply.

        Luke blinked in surprise.

        "What's the matter?  I thought we ..."

        "You thought wrong," she snapped.

        Luke was taken aback.  What had happened between lunch and now?

        Mara set her fork down harder than she intended.  "This is happening too fast, Skywalker.  I'm not ready.  I may never be ready."

        "You seemed ready last night."  Gods, what a thing to say to her.

        "You took me by surprise.  I didn't expect you to be so ... so forward."

        Mara could feel the turmoil going through Luke, the disappointment.

        "Listen, Skywalker, it just wouldn't work.  We're too different."

        "I don't think we're so different."

        "You just don't get it, do you?  You think just because you're some hero of the galaxy that I should be grateful you decided to favor me with your attention."

        "Mara, I would never ..."  How could he have misjudged their relationship so badly?

        "For all you know, you could've knocked me up last night."

        "What?!"

        "It's not like you did anything to prevent it."

        "Mara, I ...," Luke stopped suddenly, as realization of her last comment dawned on him.

        "I had to go to the doctor and ask for birth control," she continued accusingly.

        "Then you're not ...?"

        "No, no thanks to you."

        "Mara, I'm sorry.  It's just been so long since I've ..."

        "And you assume I sleep with men all the time?" she interrupted.

        "Of course not."

        "Just leave me alone."

        "If that's what you truly want."

        "Yes, it's what I want."

        "Then why did you get birth control to use?" he asked quietly.

        Mara blinked back angry tears and turned away from him.

        "Mara?" he prodded, gently touching her shoulder.

        She shrugged him off, burying her face in her hands.

        "You know I would never force myself on you.  So why...?"

        "Because ... because ..."  Mara was sobbing by now.  "Because I'm in love with you, too."

        He gently turned her around, enveloping her in a loving hug.

        "I'm so scared, Luke," she cried into his shoulder.  "Being with you scares me.  I don't know if I can do this."

        Luke stroked her hair.  "I'm scared too, Mara," he whispered.

        He lifted her chin and brushed away the tears streaming down her cheeks.  Why did he have to go and blurt out that he loved her this morning?  He should have waited.  And why did he have to brush her off when she voiced her concern about their rushing things?

        "I'm sorry, Luke," Mara was saying.  "I didn't mean to say those awful things about you."

        "I know.  And I'm sorry you had to ask for the birth control on your own.  It was irresponsible of me.  You'd think a grown man would know better."

        "Shhh.  We're in this together, remember?"  Mara clung to him tightly.  "Luke, tonight, can you just hold me?"

        "I could hold you forever."

 

        The next morning, Luke rose quietly, went out to the common room and sat down to meditate.  He would not push Mara.  He wondered if that was why Callista left him.  Maybe she felt pressured.  He didn't want to make that same mistake with Mara.

        He loved Mara deeply, and for now, it was enough just to know she loved him.  He would be patient.  He smiled to himself as he remembered Yoda's words from long ago -- 'The boy has no patience.'  Well, he wasn't a boy anymore.

        After awhile, Luke felt Mara enter the room and sit next to him.  She stretched one arm across his shoulders, laying her head against him.

        "I remember the first time you put your arm across my shoulders," he reminisced.  "Course you were also poking your blaster into the side of my head."

        "Didn't pull the trigger, though, did I?"

        He just shook his head, and they sat there in silence, both relishing the comfortable feeling of just being together.

 

        Luke and Mara resumed their platonic relationship for the next several days.  They used the time to deepen their friendship and come to grips with their new involvement.

        Finally, at lunch one day, Mara asked Luke subtly, "So, what does Neelix have on the dinner menu tonight?"

        "Boiled peckfish, I believe."

        Mara made a face, then continued, "Perhaps you could fix us something different and bring it home.  How about what you made last time?"

        Luke looked at her in surprise.  They had rarely spoken of that night.  "Sure, if you like.  We still have that bottle of wine to go with it."

        "Perfect."

 

        A sense of deja-vu came over Mara as she entered their quarters that evening, though this time Luke had their meal set out on their small dining table.               

        After Mara changed into the closest thing she had to comfortable loungewear, Luke pulled out a chair for her.

        "This really is delicious, you know," Mara complimented him.  "Perhaps you could teach me to make it sometime, or do I not want to know what's in here?"

        Mara wants to learn to cook? he thought skeptically.  "Secret recipe, but I guess I can share my secrets with you," he winked.

        They continued on with small talk, discussing each other's afternoon.

        "Do you suppose this is how normal people live when they get married?" Mara wondered aloud.

        "Now what makes you think I know anything about normal people?  I haven't felt normal since I left Tatooine."

        "I don't remember ever feeling normal."

        "Maybe we'll both have a chance now, while we're on this ship."

 

        After dinner, they settled themselves on the couch.

        "Luke, do you ever wish you could turn back time?"

        "How far back did you have in mind?"

        "To our first night together, or rather, the next day. "She intertwined her hand with his.  "I know I told you that morning I never wanted to turn back in our relationship.  I've changed my mind. Can we redo the rest of that day?  Pretend it never happened?"

        Luke reached out and cupped her face.  "We can't deny it happened, but it doesn't have to affect the rest of our lives. "He gave her a half-smile.  "I won't mention it again if you won't."

        "Deal."

        Luke cautiously kissed the palms of her hands.  He drew her close and gently brushed her lips.

        "Make love to me, Luke," Mara whispered.

        *Yes* she heard in her mind.

        Luke drew her closer and kissed her again.  Suddenly the past few days were forgotten as their arms encircled each other and their tongues seemed to want to trade places.  Ten years of pent-up emotions gushed forth from both of them.  They barely made it to the bedroom, and once there, practically ripped each other's clothes off.  This would not be the slow, gentle lovemaking of their previous night together.  'A Jedi Knows No Passion' flew right out the porthole.  They were consumed with desire, and they would not be denied.

 

        The next day, B'Elanna looked up as Mara rushed in.  "You just made it," she commented as she glanced at the chrono.

        "Sorry," Mara mumbled.

        "I came by your room about an hour ago to see if you wanted a cup of coffee before work, but no one answered your door."

        "I guess I was in the shower about then."

        "Oh, and where was Luke off to already?  I didn't see him in the mess hall."

        "He was home, with me."

        B'Elanna gave her a strange look.  "You were both in the shower?"

        Mara hoped she wasn't blushing.  "Well, actually...”

        "Never mind, I don't want to know," B'Elanna said as she held up a hand to silence Mara.  "And it's none of my business."

        Mara exhaled gratefully.  She'd never engaged in girl talk about a man before, and didn't feel ready to start now.  This conversation definitely needed a new subject.  "How about you show me more about the warp core?"

 

        Luke had sprinted to the mess hall in record time.

        "There you are!"  Neelix boomed.  "I thought I was going to have to cook by myself today."

        "Sorry.  I guess we overslept."  Luke couldn't suppress the grin on his face.

        "Until 11:00?"  Neelix laughed.  "You seem to be in an awfully good mood.  Ah, young love is a wonderful thing."

        "It certainly is," Luke agreed.  "I haven't felt this relaxed in years.  Being on Voyager is like being on a second honeymoon.  Actually, we never had much of a first one."

        "Well, then, by all means, enjoy it, my friend," Neelix smiled. "Though I would have thought a meditation teacher would be relaxed all the time."

        Luke stopped.  "Well, uh, with Mara always gone on trading runs, things were sometimes a little strained."

        "I see," Neelix answered, though he had the feeling Luke was hiding something.

        Luke suppressed the urge to listen in on Neelix's thoughts, as Neelix seemed to be mulling over Luke's explanation.

        "What are we cooking today?" Luke asked, as he attempted to change the subject.

 

        *Things going as well for you as they are for me?* Luke heard in his head.

        *I think we should give them something to talk about every morning* he replied to Mara.

        *In your dreams, flyboy*

        Luke smiled to himself.  *See you at lunch, my beautiful dream-come-true.*

 

        When Mara entered the mess hall a few hours later, Luke was already waiting for her at what had become 'their table.' "How has your morning been going?" he asked.

        "You mean besides admitting we were both in the shower and couldn't hear the door chime when B'Elanna came by this morning?"  Mara frowned, but didn't really seem too upset.  "How about your day?"

        "Okay, except for explaining how I was nearly late because we both overslept."

        "Well, we'll just have to get up earlier tomorrow."

        "I know, I promised Tuvoc I'd meditate with him in the morning."

        "You should have plenty to meditate about," Mara winked at him wickedly.

        Luke reached over and took her free hand.  "I just hope I don't get so absorbed in a trance I start levitating off the floor."

        Mara laughed lightly.  "Concentrate, you must concentrate," she said in her best Yoda imitation, causing Luke to chuckle.

        "Mara," Luke turned serious now, "I feel things are going to be fine between us from now on."

        "Jedi intuition?"

        Luke shrugged, smiling.  "Perhaps."

        "Then I must be a Jedi, because I have the same feeling."

        Indeed, only two Jedi could make love mentally in the middle of a crowded dining hall.

 

   

        The next morning, Luke awoke first again.  Darn farmer's chrono, he thought.  He was giving the still sleeping Mara a gentle hug when his early morning appointment occurred to him.  He checked the time and leapt out of bed.  When he came out of the shower, Mara was looking at him.  She remembered his meditation date with Tuvoc.

        "Remember me when you're in that trance," she teased him.

        "How can I think of anything else?" he replied, as he leaned over and gave her a kiss.  Luke left quickly, before the temptation to just get back into bed got any stronger.

 

        "Enter," Luke heard as he pushed Tuvoc's door chime.  The quarters he entered seemed rather sparse, then he realized they reminded him of his own back home.

        "Good morning, Commander," Luke greeted his host.

        "Thank you for coming, Mr. Skywalker," Tuvoc replied.

        "Please call me Luke."

        "As you wish," Tuvoc replied, though it went against his nature to be so informal.

        They seated themselves on the floor, cross-legged.

        "How would you like to begin?" Luke asked tentatively.

        "Perhaps you could go through the basic concepts of meditation as you would to your beginning students, and I will compare these concepts to my own methods."

        "All right," Luke said slowly.  Why did he ever agree to this?  He wasn't sure if he could explain anything without using the concept of the Force.  Well, he'd just have to give it a try.  No, he would do.

        "Let's close our eyes," he began, "and take several deep breaths. Let your body relax.  Clear your mind.  For now, there is no Voyager, noStarfleet, no Delta Quadrant.  There is only the sound of my voice.  Relax.  Relax," Luke's soothing voice emphasized.

        The thought crossed Luke's mind that Tuvoc may have invited him here only to disprove his claim to be a meditation teacher.  He would just have to do his best.

        "Open yourself to the power of your mind," Luke continued, careful not to say power of the Force.  "Now choose one thing, or one person, to concentrate on."  Luke felt Tuvoc think of his wife.

        "Good.  Now think only of her face, her features.  Her expression the last time you saw her.  Let her strength flow through you.  Let it fill you."

        Luke continued in this manner for some time.

        "Now, it is time to come back to this room.  Back to Voyager.  Back to Starfleet.  I want you to open your eyes now, Tuvoc."

        Tuvoc's eyes fluttered open.  "That was very relaxing.  But tell me, how did you know I was thinking of my wife?"

        Oops!  Luke had to think fast.  "Neelix told me you were married.  I imagine everyone on this ship thinks a great deal about their loved ones back home."

        "I see," Tuvoc replied, in his usual deadpan voice.

        "Perhaps you could show me some of the things you do when you meditate," Luke suggested.

        Tuvoc retrieved an old-fashioned wax candle in a candleholder and set it on the floor between them.  He lit it with a small incendiary device.

        "I have found, with enough concentration, I am able to make the flame flicker."

        "Fascinating," Luke encouraged him.  "Please proceed."

        Luke thought of how he had used this same exercise with his beginning students.  Some things were the same even galaxies apart.

        Tuvoc closed his eyes briefly, then slowly opened them and stared at the flame.  It began to flicker, almost imperceptibly at first, then stronger.

        After a few moments Tuvoc exhaled, and the flame stilled.

        "That is very good.  It takes a well-controlled mind to be able to manipulate objects," Luke praised.

        "All Vulcans have highly controlled minds.  It is the foundation of our society."  Tuvoc nodded at the flame.  "Do you, Luke, have the ability to move the flame with your mind?"

        Luke hesitated.  Of course he could make the candle dance through the air with no effort whatsoever.  But that wasn't an option right now.  Surely, however, it wouldn't hurt to exercise as much mind control as Tuvoc had just demonstrated.

        Luke didn't reply out loud, but instead fixed his gaze on the candle.  The flame seemed to grow brighter, then moved in a circular motion in one direction, then stopped and moved in the opposite direction.  Tuvoc's eyes widened, and Luke thought he had gone far enough.  Perhaps too far.  The flame returned to its original position, and Luke raised his eyes to Tuvoc.  "The mind is a powerful object," he stated simply.

        "Indeed, most impressive," Tuvoc bestowed a rare compliment.  "I would be grateful if you could teach me your methods of control."

        "Of course.  But I seem to have run out of time this morning.  My shift starts shortly."

        Luke excused himself and left hurriedly.  He had the sudden feeling that Mara would not approve of what he had just done.  He hoped she was not paying attention to his thoughts this morning.  With luck, she had gone back to sleep.

 

        Luke continued on to the mess hall and had just about put the candle flame incident out of his mind.  After several hours, Mara and B'Elanna entered.  As Luke happened to be busy at the moment, they joined Chakotay and Tuvoc, who had also just arrived.

        "Wasn't it this morning that you were going to share meditation techniques with Luke?" Chakotay was asking Tuvoc.  "How did that go?"

        Mara's ears perked up.

        "Very well," Tuvoc replied.  "I found many of his methods to be very helpful.  And he has an extremely controlled mind.  Do you recall, Commander, that exercise I do with the candle flame?  Luke was able to make the flame grow brighter, and then have it move in a controlled circular pattern.  I have not seen that kind of mind power since Kes left."

        Mara couldn't believe her ears.  "Excuse me," she interrupted Tuvoc.  "Did you say Luke moved a candle flame around, with his mind?"

        "Yes, that is correct.  Were you not aware what your husband is capable of?"

        "Yes, I am," she replied coldly.  "And he is aware what I am capable of."

        Mara got up quickly and marched back to the kitchen area.  B'Elanna and the others watched in astonishment as Mara grabbed Luke by the hair and pulled him off to one side.

        "Ouch!" Luke protested.  "What are you doing?"

        "What is wrong with you?" Mara said in a low and menacing voice.

        "What are you talking about?" Luke kept his voice equally low.

        "I'm talking about your little dancing candle flame trick. 

Aren't you the one who wanted to keep our powers a secret?  So the first chance you get, you start moving things with your mind?"  Mara emphasized her point by poking him in the chest.  She was hopping mad.  Luke managed to pull her farther out of anyone's

earshot.

        "Now hold on.  It wasn't that bad."  Luke was not going to let her rattle him.  "Tuvoc moved the flame first.  I did nothing more than he himself did.  That shouldn't arouse any suspicion."

        "Well, Tuvoc seems to think you did more.  And he's telling everyone about it."

        B'Elanna, Chakotay, and Tuvoc couldn't hear what was being said, but they could see the angry expressions and gesturing arms.

        "I see now what's happening," Mara was continuing in a deadly tone.  "Tuvoc asked if you could match his control, and you couldn't back down from the challenge.  I'd expect something like this from Calrissian or that half-witted brother-in-law of

yours, but I thought you were above this kind of thing."  Mara was certainly wound up now.

        "Just one minute.  You're blowing this all out of proportion.  And since when do I have to answer to you for my actions?"  Luke's eyes were cold and menacing.  Anyone but Mara would have been trembling in fear.  "I don't have to listen to this!"  Luke turned and stormed into the rear of the kitchen.

        Still fuming, Mara stomped out of the mess hall.

        "What do you suppose brought all that on?" B'Elanna echoed everyone's thoughts.  "Why should his moving a flame upset her so?  I mean, no offense Tuvoc, but if you can do it, it's not too far of a stretch that a guy who meditates constantly would be able to."

        "It seems to me," Chakotay put in, "that her reaction was triggered by the fact that he did move the flame, not any surprise that he was able to."

        "I agree, Commander," Tuvoc answered.  "It appears there is more to the Skywalkers than meets the eye."

        "Well, I have to get back to my shift," B'Elanna said as she stood.  "Perhaps I can sound Mara out a little."

 

        But Mara was not to be sounded out at all, B'Elanna discovered.  Instead, she concentrated on her engineering work, refusing to talk about 'that stubborn schoolteacher she had the poor judgment to marry.'  She continued her aloofness during her shift in sickbay, where the Doctor thankfully hadn't heard about the incident in the mess hall yet.

        Meanwhile, Luke had his hands full evading Neelix's questions.  Though he knew Neelix meant well, he would only reply that he didn't want to talk about 'that hard-headed woman he had married in a momentary lapse of judgment.'

 

        At the end of his shift, Luke didn't feel like going directly back to his quarters; their quarters, that is.  Instead he headed for one of the holodecks and played a game of parrises squares against a computer-generated opponent.  How dare she talk to him like that?  He was a Jedi Master.  No one ever scolded him, or even raised their voice to him.

        He'd overheard Leia tear into Han on more than one occasion, and now realized why Han sometimes retreated to work on the Falcon when, oddly enough, it didn't even need working on.  Wasn't that the same think he was doing here in the holodeck?  Hiding out?  Licking his wounds?  Taking out his frustrations on a phony opponent that wouldn't talk back?

        "Computer, end program."

        Luke sat cross-legged on the bare floor of the holodeck.  He contemplated Mara's words to him and considered the possibility that she was right.  Tuvoc had challenged him and he foolishly thought there would be no consequences in taking up that challenge.  Had he subconsciously been wanting to 'show off' his abilities every since they arrived?  Pride was not a trait a Jedi should possess.  He had some apologizing to do.  It was time to go 'home.'

 

        Luke entered their suite and found Mara sitting up in bed reading a datapad.  She didn't even glance at him as he walked through and went to the 'fresher.  When he came out she had turned out the lights and was lying on her side, facing away from him.  For one fleeting moment Luke wondered if she expected him to sleep on the couch.

        *You can sleep here.  It's a big bed,* he heard in his mind.

        Quietly he slipped under the covers, but kept his distance.

        "Mara, I'm sorry," he whispered.  She turned over, but did not move any closer.  "I acted foolishly and impulsively.  You were right.  I took it as a challenge.  I..."

        "Luke," Mara interrupted, as she inched nearer to him.  "You're human.  It happens."

        "It's not supposed to happen to me.  I'm supposed to be the one setting the example for Jedi to follow.  Now you know why Yoda didn't even want to train me."

        She heard him roll over and sigh in the darkness.  She scooted over next to him and put one arm around his waist.  "Luckily there's no Jedi here to see your example."

        "You're here," he stated simply.

        "I don't count.  I already know all your shortcomings, farmboy.  And if it makes you feel any better, I don't think anyone would have thought much about you moving that flame if I hadn't made such a spectacle in the mess hall.  I handled that all wrong, and if we're caught, I'll be more to blame than you."

        Luke pulled her close and stroked her cheek.

        "I don't think it'll do us any good to debate who's to blame.  And what would it hurt if we were caught?  Being a Jedi is nothing to be ashamed of.  Maybe we should just tell the Captain."

        "I think that would just make us look guilty.  No, let's wait and see what happens."

 

        A few moments of silence ensued, during which they held each other tightly.

        "Mara?" Luke whispered.

        "Yes?"

        Luke hesitated, then whispered quickly before he lost his nerve.  "I wish you really were my wife."

        Mara was momentarily stunned, then found her voice.  "Why, Skywalker, is this a proposal?"

        He kissed her lightly.  "What would be your answer if it was?"

        "Try me."

        Luke doubted he had ever been this nervous in his life.  He knelt up in the bed, then pulled Mara up to face him.

        "Mara, I've admired you and treasured your friendship ever since I met you.  Well, since a few days after I met you, anyway."

        Mara stifled a snicker.

        "In the past few weeks, though, I've realized how much you mean to me," Luke continued.  "I need you, Mara."  He squeezed her hands tighter.  "I love you, and I want to marry you, if you'll have this sorry excuse for a Jedi Master."

        A jumble of emotions was running through Mara.  She could feel his anxiety.  "Luke," she began, "you are the only person to know the real me, perhaps even better than I know myself.  From the moment you came back to check on me when we crashed in the forest on Myrkr, I knew you were different from anyone I had ever met.  I was supposed to hate you, but I found I couldn't.  You trusted me when no one else did.  You are the only one to ever truly be my friend, no strings attached.  All that snapping at you was because I was scared to admit, even to myself, that I liked you."

        Mara took a deep breath, trying to steady her pounding heart.  "And now, I've fallen in love with you.  But not because you're a Jedi Master, or a war hero, or powerful in the Force.  I love the naïve farmboy, the tender lover, the caring, compassionate man you are.  Yes, Luke, I will marry you."

        Luke thought his heart would burst with happiness.  As he pulled her into a passionate kiss, he dropped all his barriers and let his emotions flood into her.  She gasped, then relaxed and did the same.  He felt her love for him pour through him.  They both knew they would never again have any barriers between them.

 

        The next morning Luke awoke to strains of music coming from the outer room.  He instantly sensed Mara was no longer in bed beside him.  He got up, pulled on some pants, and went out to investigate.

        Mara was dancing gracefully, swaying to the music in perfect harmony.  Luke knew she had used the undercover guise of a dancer at more places than just Jabba's palace.  As he leaned against the doorway, smiling, Mara paused and glanced at him.

        "And what are you staring at?" she asked.

        "My beautiful fiancée," he responded, as he sent a feeling of love her way.

        "So why don't you come over here and join her?"

        "You know I don't dance."

        "It seems to me you've been doing other things lately you've never done before.  I know you're light on your feet.  It's time you learned."  She tugged on him with the Force, and his resistance weakened.

        Mara had been dancing to lively, exotic music.  "Can we at least start out with slower music?" Luke pleaded.

        Mara laughed gaily.  "Of course.  Computer, play 'Love in the Morning'."

        She took his hands, and transmitted the step instructions to him via the Force.  Luke, on his part, was a fast learner.  "So what inspired you to get up and dance this morning?"

        "You," she answered.  At his surprised look she continued, "I just felt happy, carefree as a Judok bird.  I felt like dancing."

        "So you don't regret your answer last night?"

        "Not at all.  You don't regret asking the question, do you?"

        "Never," Luke smiled.

        "So how do you propose this marriage should take place?  Everyone here thinks we're already married.  It's not like we can just pull over to the nearest planet and find a wedding chapel."

        "I know.  If we were going home soon, I'd say wait until then.  But..."

        "But we may never get home.  We have to face reality."

        Luke held her tighter.  "I guess we could admit the truth to the Captain.  Surely they have some way for people to get married here.  I'll consult the computer later."

        "We're getting too melancholy here.  This is an engagement celebration.  Computer, livelier music."

        The mood lightened as the happy couple twirled, swayed, and kissed till mid-morning.

 

        B'Elanna saw Luke and Mara leave their suite hand in hand, and caught up with them at the turbo-lift.

        "Well, you two seem to be in a much better mood this morning."

        "We are in an incredibly wonderful mood," Luke grinned. 

"Contrary to what everyone thinks back home, this is one understanding woman."

        Not surprisingly, that comment invoked a bop on the head from a certain redhead.

        They reached the level of the mess hall, and Luke gave Mara a quick kiss as he exited.  "See you at lunch," he called.

        "You'd better be fixing something good today, or you'll see just how understanding I can be, " he heard in reply.

        "So are you going to tell me what happened to put you two in an 'incredibly wonderful mood'?" B'Elanna inquired when she and Mara were alone.

        "Uh, it's, uh, rather personal."  Mara didn't know what to say.  "Suffice it to say that being here is like a second honeymoon for us."

        "I see," B'Elanna grinned slyly.  "And when are we going to hear the patter of little feet around here?"

        "What!" Mara protested as the meaning of B'Elanna's words sunk in.  "No, oh no.  We're not ready for that.  Not for a long time.  I'm not ready," she repeated.

        "If you say so," B'Elanna acknowledged, in a tone which suggested she didn't believe a word.

 

        Luke likewise was interrogated when Neelix caught him humming to himself.

        "I don't see any black and blue marks," Neelix commented as he looked Luke over.

        "Pardon me?" Luke questioned.

        "I take it you and your lovely wife patched things up.  You, at least, seem pretty chipper."

        "Couldn't be better.  It was really a minor disagreement.  We worked it out."

        "Glad to hear it.  By the way, Voyager is scheduled to reach a planet called Antare in a few days.  If sensors show an abundance of plant life, perhaps I'll be able to gather some new provisions."

        Luke's interest was aroused immediately.  "How many crew members are allowed to leave the ship when you arrive at a planet?"

        "Usually the Captain sends a small away team of about six to scout the local communities.  On occasion, more of the crew can beam down on a rotating basis."

        Harry had explained to Luke about matter transfer, or beaming, as they called it.

        "Do you think the Captain would allow me to go along?  It's been a long time since I've spent this many weeks on board a ship. 

I could help you collect food provisions."

        Neelix looked thoughtful.  "Well, it's possible.  We can ask her when we reach orbit."

 

        Luke's mood became even brighter the rest of the day, if that was possible.  He longed to set foot on a planet, any planet.  He missed the richness of animal and plant life.  Mara could see the anxious look in his eyes when he brought up the subject at lunch.

        "I hope it doesn't turn out to be a desert planet," Luke mused.

        "I would think that would make you feel at home," Mara kidded him.

        "Tatooine wasn't that bad, really," he rebuked.  "Though I thought it was, growing up.  I've been in a lot worse places since then."

        "I've been to Tatooine, and it's not somewhere I'd want to call home."

        "And where would you like to call home?" Luke asked.  "We'll have to discuss that one of these days."

        "You mean if we ever get back.  Right now it looks like this ship is our home," Mara sighed.  "But if we do find a way..."

        "WHEN we find a way," Luke interrupted.

        "When we find a way home," she frowned, "then, I don't know.  Coruscant is the closest thing I've ever known as 'home.'  But I know you like Yavin better."

        He reached across and clasped her hand.  "I'll live wherever you want.  As long as we're together, even if it's on your ship.  I don't want to spend half our time apart."

        Mara smiled at his earnestness.  "I want us to be together, too.  I guess we can discuss the location when we arrive back in our galaxy."

        Luke nodded in agreement.

 

        The next morning Luke had agreed to spend some meditation time with Commander Chakotay.

        "He doesn't do candles, does he?" Mara mumbled from under the covers, as Luke dressed.

        "Let's hope not.  And I promise not to repeat the other morning's episode.  I don't want to lose any more hair," he joked, rubbing his head.

 

        Luke and Chakotay started off with breathing exercises, and then Chakotay explained the vision quests he practiced, passed down from his ancestors.  Luke thought they sounded similar to visions he sometimes had.

        "Do you ever have visions when you meditate?" the Commander asked Luke.

        A Jedi doesn't lie, Luke kept telling himself, though he and Mara had not been doing a very good job of keeping to that axiom.

        "I let my mind wander and have daydreams, of a sort," Luke answered, though he didn't sound very truthful to his own ears.

        "Well, how about we meditate and see what happens," Chakotay suggested.

        "Fine," Luke agreed.

        They both settled on the floor cross-legged.  Chakotay lit a small incense burner, surrounded by several Indian artifacts.  Luke noted his entire room was decorated with wall hangings and other objects Luke supposed were of his ancestors.  Chakotay began chanting softly, and Luke closed his eyes and let the Force flow though him.  Though Luke knew he could enter his companion's mind, and follow Chakotay's vision quest, that is not something he would do without permission.  No, he would simply meditate on his own, listening to Chakotay's soothing chant.  Perhaps some visions of his own would come his way.

        Images did indeed come to Luke.  He saw himself on a strange planet, along with several of Voyager's crew.  Suddenly he had his lightsaber out, fending off shots from an opponent he couldn't quite make out.

        After a few moments, he seemed to be back on Voyager.  He saw Mara, smiling at him, then he saw her holding a small bundle.  What was it?  The scene then changed, and he saw Leia's face.  She looked strained with worry, with deep lines on her face and streaks of gray beginning to show in her hair.  She started weeping, and then Han appeared and held her close.  Luke instinctively knew she was crying for him, and he wanted to reach out and touch her, tell her he was all right.  The children appeared around them.  They all looked older.  The boys were trying to look stoic, but Jaina

buried her face in her father's chest.  Luke's heart felt heavy.  He wondered if they believed he was dead, since they wouldn't be able to sense him.  He was filled with guilt.  How could he and Mara be frolicking together here, while Leia and her family were mourning?

        Luke felt like he was being watched.  He came out of his trance to find Chakotay looking at him.

        Luke spoke first.  "Did you find anything on your vision quest?"

        "Actually, yes.  I saw you, holding some kind of lighted stick.  We were being attacked, I think.  That was all I could tell.  Then I awoke.  How about you?"

        Luke was surprised that Chakotay's vision matched one of his own, but decided not to mention it. 

        "I dreamed of my sister," Luke answered dejectedly.  "She looked very sad.  This must be hard on her, not knowing what happened to me.  To Mara and me."  He looked up at Chakotay.  "We're twins, we're very close."

        "I understand.  All of us on Voyager left loved ones at home.  At least you have your wife with you."

        "I do feel fortunate in that regard.  I guess we should consider ourselves lucky.  And we've only been here a few weeks.  You've been here four years."  Luke chuckled softly.  "But you do know which direction to head."

        "And that it will take us another fifty years," Chakotay added.

        "Perhaps a miracle will come along."

        "We're always hoping."

 

        Luke returned to his quarters before his duty shift started, and Mara met him at the door.  She hugged him tightly.  "I felt your sadness.  What happened?"

        Luke walked over and sat on the couch, pulling her onto his lap.  "I had a vision while meditating.  I saw Leia and Han and the kids.  They seemed to be in mourning.  Leia looked in terrible shape.  I don't even know if it was the present or the future."

        "And the future is always in motion," Mara reminded him.  "We may be back before things get that bad."  She laid her head on his shoulder.

        "We'll never give up hope," he whispered, as much to himself as to her.

        They sat there in silence until it was nearly time for their shifts to start.

 

        Four days later, Voyager reached orbit of the planet Antare.  The bridge crew was busy taking readings on the planet.  Or at least trying to.

        "It is a Class M planet," Tuvoc reported.  "However, it has a dense ionic outer atmosphere that prevents our sensors from getting accurate readings.  Also, we would not be able to transport or send a communication through the atmosphere."

        "I see," replied the Captain.  "Still, our food supplies need replenishing, if we want a variety to eat that is, and we could use some iridium if it's available.  Therefore, I believe I'll send an away team in a shuttle.  Commander Chakotay, you will be in charge.  You can scan for life forms, cities, and agricultural areas once you are through the outer atmosphere.  Tuvoc, Kim, Paris, and Neelix can accompany you.  You may depart as soon as you are ready."

        "Aye, aye, Captain," acknowledged Chakotay.

        Luke had made his way to the bridge as soon as he sensed their approach to the planet, and had been standing quietly to the side.  It was now or never.

        "Captain, request permission to accompany the away team."

        Janeway turned and looked at him.  "And your purpose for this request?"

        "I could help Neelix gather foodstuffs.  There may be varieties that I would be familiar with but the others would not."  Luke resisted the temptation to use mind control to convince her.

        Captain Janeway, for her part, doubted his story of possibly being knowledgeable of the local plant life, but she could sympathize with his restlessness in being on board a ship this long.

        "Ordinarily I would not assign someone this new to the crew to join an away team, especially when the planet is virtually unknown to us.  Of course, it's been a long time since we had anyone new to the crew."  She smiled, as if she were considering his request, then turned serious.  "If the planet turns out to be hostile, Chakotay and the others may not be able to look out for your well being."

        "I assure you, Captain, I can look out for myself," Luke replied, putting as much conviction in his voice as he could without using the

Force.

        Chakotay remembered his vision quest from the other morning.  "I don't believe there would be any harm in letting him come along," he said on Luke's behalf.

        Janeway hesitated, then nodded toward Luke.  "Very well, you may join them.  But you will be under Commander Chakotay's direct supervision.  I expect you to obey orders just like any other member of this crew."

        "Understood, Captain," Luke smiled graciously.  "And thank you."

        "Report to shuttle bay nine in one hour.  Consult with Neelix on what you need to bring and wear," Chakotay instructed Luke.

        "Yes, commander," Luke replied, as he turned and left.

        Janeway turned to Chakotay.  "Are you sure about this?  What prompted you to vouch for him?"

        "Just a feeling."  He was reluctant to discuss his vision.  "Remember his manual landing in the shuttle bay when they first arrived?  I don't believe he will be a detriment to the mission."

        "I hope you're right.  With communication to the ship impossible, you will all be on your own down there."

        "I know.  We will be cautious.  You will have a full report as soon as we return."

        "Very well, Commander," Janeway dismissed him.

 

        Luke found out what type clothing was usually worn on away missions, and it was not much different than his usual clothes.  He and Mara had been allowed to continue wearing ordinary clothes, not Starfleet uniforms, and Luke had been adding variety to his wardrobe instead of just black Jedi wear, much to Mara's delight.  Since nothing was known about the planet Antare, the away team could only hope they would blend in.

        "This isn't fair, Skywalker," Mara whined.  "I want to go too."

        "The Captain barely let me go.  There's no way she'd let us both go."

        "So how come I can't be the one who goes, and you stay here?"

        "And you're going to help Neelix gather plants for food?"

        "Don't make me laugh," she retorted.  "I know you, Luke Skywalker.  That's not the real reason you're so anxious to go."

        Luke looked at her for a moment.  "You remember when I meditated with Chakotay a few mornings ago, and I told you about my vision?"

        She nodded.  "About Leia and Han and the kids."

        "Yes, but I had another vision as well.  Two, actually.  Anyway, in one of them, I saw myself on a strange planet, with the same crewmembers that are going on this mission, and we were attacked.  And to top it off, Chakotay told me he had a vision of me holding a lighted stick.  Mara, I feel I need to be there."

        Mara's only reply was to go get his lightsaber and hand it to him.  He stuck it inside his outer tunic, then pulled her close.  "I love you so much," he whispered, and kissed her tenderly.

        Finally she pulled away reluctantly, and tugged him toward the door.  "C'mon, you don't want to be late for your first mission.  I'll walk you to the shuttle bay."

 

        Hand in hand, they entered Shuttle Bay Nine.

        "There you are," Tom said boisterously.  "We'll be ready to go in a few minutes."

        Chakotay approached them.  "Hello, Luke, Mara.  Luke, we'll be carrying concealed phasers.  Are you familiar with a phaser's operation?"

        "I have not actually used one, but they are similar to the blasters we have at home," Luke replied, as he took the phaser and slipped it in his tunic, opposite his lightsaber.  He had no doubt in his mind as to which one he would pull out to use first if needed.

        Mara pulled Luke to the side and gave him a kiss goodbye.

        "Hey, do we all get a goodbye kiss?" asked Harry.

        "Dream on, flyboy," Mara laughed.  She turned back to Luke.  "Be careful," she whispered to him.

        "I will," he answered quietly, "and I'll keep in touch."

        He started to turn away, but she touched his arm as an afterthought struck her.  "You said you had two other visions.  What was the second one?"

        He grinned at her.  "I saw you, smiling, and you were holding a ... baby."  Of course, he hadn't been able to tell what was wrapped in the bundle he saw, but somehow he just knew.

        Mara's mouth dropped open, and Luke hurried onto the shuttle before she could retaliate.

        *I'll get even with you* Luke heard in his mind.

        *Can't wait* he sent back.

 

        The shuttle veered away from Voyager.  As they entered the ionic atmosphere, communication between the two ships ceased.

        "Well, Luke, I guess this will be quite an adventure for you," Neelix commented.

        "Why do you say that?" Luke replied.

        "I wouldn't think a meditation teacher would go on many undercover missions."

        "I didn't know we were going undercover?" Luke gave Chakotay a puzzled look.

        "We're not, really," Chakotay answered, kidding Neelix.  "Neelix tends to get a little melodramatic.  That doesn't mean we'll be telling our whole life stories, though, either.  We'll just play it by ear, since we don't know what to expect on the

planet."

        "I see.  But in answer to you, Neelix, I have been on quite a few undercover missions.  I wasn't always a meditation teacher."

        This brought questioning looks from the others.

        "So what were you before becoming a teacher?" Harry spoke up.

        "During the war I was a fighter pilot, but I saw a lot of groundside action also."

        "What kind of war?" asked Tom.

        "There was a senator who was very powerful and very evil.  He declared himself Emperor and gradually his troops took over most of the galaxy.  I was part of the rebellion against him."

        "And your rebellion won the war?" inquired Chakotay.

        "Yes, it did, and peace was restored, though skirmishes still crop up now and then."

        "What rank were you?" asked Neelix.

        Luke seemed to look a little embarrassed.  "Well, I was a commander."

        "How long ago was this?" Tom asked.

        "The war ended about fifteen years ago, and I resigned my commission shortly after that."

        "Fifteen years!" Neelix seemed astonished.  "How old are you?"

        "Thirty-six," Luke replied uneasily.  "Remember, it was wartime, and officers were in short supply," he added.

        "Is that where you met Mara?" Tom asked.

        "No, I didn't meet her until about five years after the war.  Anyway, she was on the other side."

        "She worked for this evil Emperor?" Neelix asked incredulously.

        Luke wished he hadn't brought that part up.  "You'll have to ask her sometime."

        Thankfully, Tuvoc announced they were coming out of the ionic atmosphere by then.

        "Sensors show a town to the north," Tom reported as their shuttle neared the planet's surface.  Luke, of course, could sense the inhabitants immediately.  Most of them felt harmless, though he was picking up pockets of hostility.

        "Put down just outside the town," Chakotay ordered.  "We don't want to attract any unnecessary attention."

        Tom skillfully brought the shuttle down in the midst of a small clearing surrounded by trees and dense foliage.  They exited cautiously, but the area appeared deserted.  Luke stretched out with the Force, but felt no presences nearby.

       

        The short walk into town was uneventful, and they soon reached a marketplace.  The crew did not see any evidence of this being a technologically advanced society.  They seemed to be more agricultural oriented.  As they wandered through the open-air market, Neelix and Luke stopped to inspect the various fruits and vegetables for sale.  Luke kept his eyes and senses open for possible danger, and was relieved to notice the rest of the crew seemed alert.

        "Let's continue on," Chakotay said.  "We need to inquire about the availability of iridium, though I don't expect to find any."

        The villagers didn't appear to be paying much attention to them, which seemed odd to Luke, since they looked different than the humanoid residents.  Perhaps they had received alien visitors previously.

       

        Suddenly Luke's danger sense flared.  He looked around, narrowing his gaze, and noticed Chakotay watching him curiously.  Luke stretched out with the Force, and felt ten, no twelve, hostile minds.

        Luke quickened his pace and walked next to Commander Chakotay.  "Commander," he murmured quietly, "we are being followed."

        Chakotay glanced at him, concerned.  "How do you know?  I've seen no one."

        "I just know.  Trust me.  There are twelve beings following us.  He paused, then continued.  "Two are moving up to each side of us now.  They mean to do us harm."

        Chakotay seemed to be absorbing his words.  He whispered to the others, "Everyone, be ready with your phasers.  We may have company."

        Luke noted the street was crowded with passers-by.  "Commander, might I suggest we move to a less crowded side street?  There are many bystanders here they could use as cover."

        Chakotay nodded in agreement, and they casually detoured through a deserted alleyway.

        Chakotay jerked as Luke suddenly spun around.  Out of the shadows behind them suddenly appeared a dozen aliens.  They were obviously a different race than the villagers, and were all armed.

        "Who are you?  What do you want?" Chakotay demanded of them. The apparent leader of the aliens waved his weapon threateningly and sneered at them.  "You are in no position to be questioning us."

        Just then, Chakotay saw one of his crew behind him make a sudden movement, and the firefight began.  Both sides were armed, but Voyager's crew was outnumbered 2 to 1.

        In a blur, Chakotay saw Luke reach into his tunic and withdraw some kind of silver handle.  A green light sprang out of one end, and Luke began deflecting the enemies' phaser shots, ALL of the enemies' phaser shots.  The crew stopped firing; they didn't need to fire.  They stared as Luke moved faster than they thought humanly possible.

        The aliens stopped firing momentarily also, and in that moment their weapons suddenly flew out of their grasps and landed at Luke's feet.  Luke raised his free hand and clenched his fist.  The phasers at his feet crumpled as if being crushed by an invisible iron hand.

        All of the aliens except the leader made a hasty retreat.  The leader felt himself being tugged toward Voyager's crew, his arms pinned to his sides.  Luke clipped his lightsaber to his belt.

        Chakotay stepped forward, giving Luke another curious glance.  There would be time for explanations later.  "Now then," he addressed the leader, "why did you attack us?"

        "I don't have to tell you anything," the leader spat.

        Luke stared at the man.  "You will tell him what he wants to know," he said in an eerie voice.

        The man seemed hypnotized.  "I will tell you want you want to know," he repeated slowly.

        By this time the rest of the crew, even Tuvoc, seemed mesmerized.  This couldn't possibly be the same Luke that had been living with them for nearly a month.

        "Who are you?" Chakotay began again.

        "I am Vanore, of the Ubossi clan," he replied in a monotone voice.

        "Why did you attack us?"

        "To steal your weapons.  We have no technology to build our own phasers or ships, so we take them from visitors who land here."  The man's tongue was loosed now.  "Even as we speak, your shuttle is being moved to our compound, and your ship in orbit will soon be attacked."

        "Where is your compound?" Chakotay asked.  He wanted to get as much information out of the man as he could.

        "North of the city," was the reply.

        Chakotay turned to Tom and Tuvoc.  "Tie him up, gag him, and stash him out of sight.  We need to get to that compound."

        "Commander," Neelix spoke up.  "Ensign Kim was hit in the arm by phaser fire."

        "It's nothing," Harry put in quickly.  "Just grazed me."

        "I wasn't aware any shots even got through," Tom put in.

        "It was right at the beginning," Harry explained, "before..."

        Luke felt everyone looking at him.  There wasn't time for lengthy explanations just yet.  He looked at Harry.  "May I see it?" he asked, nodding toward Harry's arm.

        Harry removed his hand with which he had been covering the wound.  Luke tore the sleeve open more to get a better look.  It wasn't very bad.  He put one hand over the wound and closed his eyes.  Harry felt a tingling sensation.

        After a few moments, Luke pulled his hand away.  Tom and Neelix both examined Harry's arm.

        "You can't even tell he was hit!" Neelix exclaimed.

        "We should get moving," was all Luke said.  Chakotay nodded in agreement.

 

        "I wish we had a way to warn the Captain," Chakotay said, as they waited for the alien to be bound.

        "We do," Luke said quietly.  He stared straight ahead, his eyes seeming to glaze over.  "Mara, hear me," he whispered.

        Aboard Voyager, Mara was helping B'Elanna when she suddenly stopped and got a far-away look on her face.  "Luke," she said softly.

        "What's that?" B'Elanna asked.

        Mara seemed to be listening intently, though B'Elanna could hear nothing.

        "I've got to see the Captain," Mara said quickly, and she raced for the turbolift.

        "Wait, I'm coming too," B'Elanna called.  They reached the bridge in record time.

        "Captain," Mara began, "the away team has been attacked."

        Janeway looked at her strangely.  "How do you know that?  We aren't able to communicate through their atmosphere."

        Mara took a deep breath, then decided it was time to be honest.  "Luke and I can communicate telepathically.  He says the beings who attacked them claimed that their ships would soon attack Voyager.  Your sensors wouldn't be able to detect them

until they emerged from the ionic atmosphere."

        Janeway stared at Mara, who appeared dead serious.  "Was anyone injured?"

        Mara paused, as if listening, then replied, "Ensign Kim was grazed by a phaser bolt, but he's all right now."

        "Red alert," the Captain ordered.

 

        Tom and Tuvoc returned from hiding the alien inside an empty doorway. 

        "Let's go," Chakotay ordered the others.

        As they headed through the back streets, Chakotay fell into step next to Luke.  "Are you ready to start accounting for yourself?" he asked.

        "I am a Jedi," Luke replied simply, as he continued scanning the areas they passed through.  "I have certain powers I can call upon."

        "Obviously," Chakotay smiled.  "Thank you.  We are in your debt."

        "No thanks are needed.  I will go into more detail when we return to Voyager."

        "I, for one, look forward to that, as I'm sure the Captain will, too."

 

        They reached the northern edge of the city and came upon a fortress of some sort, surrounded by a solid wall about eight meters high.

        "I don't suppose you can see through this wall and tell if our shuttle is in there?" Chakotay turned to Luke.

        Luke shook his head and smiled.  "No, 'fraid not.  I could cut a hole in the wall, but I think it would attract less attention if we just looked over the top."  Dusk was falling by this time, and a lightsaber would show up easily.

        The others looked up at the top of the wall, then at Luke. 

        "You first," Chakotay invited.  "I'll believe anything at this point."

        Luke nodded.  "I'll bring the rest of you up if I spot it."  He crouched, then sprang up in a blur and landed gently on the top of the wall, where there was a narrow ledge.  He saw their shuttle sitting in the middle of the compound, along with two guards standing next to it.  He easily directed the guards' attention in the opposite direction, then looked back down at the crew.

        Chakotay suppressed a gasp as he felt his feet leave the ground.  Luke levitated him to a spot next to him on the ledge.  Chakotay looked at him with raised eyebrows, then followed Luke's gaze toward the shuttle and guards.  Luke put his finger to his lips, then made a hand gesture toward the guards.  They slowly fell to the ground, as if in a deep slumber.  Luke shrugged.  "They were very sleepy." 

Luke proceeded to levitate Tom, Harry, Neelix, and Tuvoc to the top.  They were fairly well hidden in the shadows, and no other guards had appeared.

        "Will the trip down be as smooth?" Tom whispered.

        Luke nodded affirmative, then looked at Chakotay.

        "Let him go first," Chakotay acceded.  Luke scanned the open compound, but felt no other aliens there.

        "There are several dozen beings inside the fortress' main building," Luke whispered.

        "I'll be quiet," Tom promised, then found himself floating to the ground.  He hugged the inside perimeter of the wall, and was soon joined by the others.

 

        Meanwhile, on Voyager, the crew remained on red alert.

        "I want continuous scans in all directions," ordered Janeway, though she knew the order wasn't really necessary.  The ship's sensors would automatically alert them to any incoming ships.  "Shields up," she added.

        "Captain," said Seven of Nine, who was occupying Harry's station, "aren't you overreacting to this ... questionable report?" She glared at Mara, who stared back with equal intensity.

        "That's enough," the Captain commanded.  "Seven, there is no harm in taking extra precautions, no matter..."

        "No matter how ridiculous my claim sounds," finished Mara with irritation.

        "Mara, please," Janeway began, then stopped when she saw Mara staring out the viewscreen.  "Mara, look at me when I'm addressing you."     

  Mara turned and looked at the Captain.  "There is a ship approaching through the atmosphere.  It is not our shuttle."

        Janeway looked to Seven for confirmation.  "Sensors are still unable... wait, a ship has just exited the atmosphere.  Its weapons are powered up."

        "Ready torpedoes," ordered the Captain.

        "Another ship is coming," Mara suddenly interrupted.

        Sure enough, within moments the second ship appeared.  Almost immediately both ships began firing on Voyager.

        "Fire torpedoes," Janeway declared.  "Target their weapons' systems."

        "Shields holding," Seven reported.

        The firefight was short-lived.  The alien ships were no match for Voyager, and they retreated back toward the planet without acknowledging Voyager's hails.

        Janeway turned to Mara.  "What is the situation of the away team?"

        Now they believe me, thought Mara.  *Luke,* she sent through the force, *the enemy ships have been repelled.  And how are you doing, my love?*

 

        As the away team surveyed their path to the shuttle, Chakotay started to say something to Luke when he noticed the grin on the latter's face.

        "Something funny?" he questioned him.

        "No, no," Luke became serious again.  "Mara says Voyager defeated the attacking ships.  The Captain wants a report on our situation."

        "Then give it.  You seem to know what's going on better than anyone."

        "Yes, Commander," Luke replied, then fell silent as he 'talked' to Mara.

 

        The away team silently made their way across the compound.  Luke hid the sound as Tom lowered the shuttle's ramp.  They quickly entered and strapped in.  As soon as they powered up the engines, more lights in the fortress came on, and the Ubossi poured from the building.  Their phaser shots bounced harmlessly off the shuttle's shields.

        "This is one piece of technology they're not getting their hands on," Tom declared.

        "Yes, and they weren't in possession of it long enough to be able to copy any information.  The computer's security systems were not breached," added Tuvoc.

        "But we weren't able to get any of that delicious looking suni fruit," Neelix lamented, causing everyone to laugh.

        "I, for one, will just be grateful to get back to Voyager," Harry put in.

        Luke silently transmitted to Mara that they were all safe and on their way back 'home.'

 

        When the shuttle landed in the docking bay, Janeway was there to greet them.  She gave instructions to the bridge for their immediate departure, then turned to the away team.

        "Chakotay, Tuvoc, I want a full report in my ready room at once."

        Mara had meanwhile also entered the bay, and greeted Luke back with a hug.

        "You two," Janeway directed her attention to Luke and Mara, "stand by.  I will want to talk to you also."

        "I guess the Bantha dung will hit the fan now," Luke whispered, as they walked away, arms encircled around each other's waist.

        "Why?  Just because we are telepathic..."  She looked at him curiously.  "Luke, what all happened on the planet?"  He hadn't given many details during their communications.

        "Oh, you name it," he sighed.

        She frowned at him.  His lightsaber hanging openly from his belt hadn't escaped her attention.

       

        "I had no choice," he continued defensively, as they entered their quarters.  "We were outnumbered.  You and I both knew that eventually we would be forced to reveal our powers.  It will almost be a relief to have it over with."  His calm blue eyes beseeched her pleadingly, hoping she would understand.

        "And what if the Captain doesn't appreciate us hiding our powers?  What if she wants us to leave Voyager?"  Mara countered.

        "Then we'll leave.  We won't be any worse off than we were when we first landed in this galaxy."

        "I suppose you're right.  We'll just have to wait and see what the Captain has to say."

        Mara laid her head on his shoulder as they sat together on the couch, awaiting their fate.

 

        Captain Janeway seated herself behind her desk, and motioned for Chakotay and Tuvoc to take seats opposite her.

        "Now, then," she began, hands clasped.  "I want a full report of what happened on the planet, from the beginning."

        Chakotay glanced at Tuvoc's impassive face.  "Well, we landed without incident, hiding the shuttle, we thought, in a grove of trees.  There was a large village nearby, to which we walked.  Neelix and Luke looked over the wares for sale in a marketplace we came to.  After leaving there, we continued up the main street."  Chakotay paused.

        "Go on," Janeway prodded.

        "As we walked, Luke came up to me and said we were being followed."

        "Had you seen anyone suspicious?" asked the Captain.

        "No, but he seemed certain.  He said there were twelve of them, behind us and moving to the sides.  He suggested we move to a side street to prevent bystanders from being possibly hurt."

        "Did he explain how he could see these beings if you could not?" the Captain asked.

        "I don't believe he did see them; it was more like he felt them.  At the time, he said he just knew they were there."

        "So you moved to a side street?"

        "Yes.  As we cut through an alley a few blocks over, the aliens made their appearance, twelve of them.  They confronted us, and began firing.  We began to return fire, but then..."

        "Then what, Commander?"  The Captain's curiosity was piqued.

        "It seems, Captain, our meditating fry-cook is some kind of wizard," Chakotay answered.

        "Wizard?" Janeway repeated.

        "He has certain powers," Tuvoc spoke for the first time.

        "Explain," she ordered.

        "He pulled an object out of his tunic, a metal handle.  A beam of light shot out of one end, and he began deflecting their phaser shots with it.  Captain, there were twelve of them firing at us, and he deflected all their shots.  In fact, he was deflecting the shots back at them, but he was careful not to mortally wound them."

        "Amazing," Janeway answered intently.

        "Actually, Captain, Chakotay hasn't even gotten to the amazing part yet," Tuvoc put in.  Janeway looked at him.  Rarely did Tuvoc consider anything 'amazing.'

        "Both sides were so surprised, everyone stopped firing.  In that instant, the aliens' weapons literally flew out of their hands and landed at Luke's feet.  He made a clenching motion with his fist, and the weapons crumpled.

        "He picked up the weapons and crushed them with his hand?" the Captain asked incredulously.

        "No, he didn't touch them.  He crushed them with his mind," Chakotay explained slowly.

        "I see," Janeway said, though she didn't see at all, she thought.

        "The aliens then turned and ran.  All but one, that is.  Their apparent leader."

        "And he...?"

        "It was as if he had been lassoed and pulled in, but of course, there was no rope."

        Janeway's eyes narrowed, but she said nothing as Chakotay continued.

        "At first the alien remained defiant, then something happened.  Luke spoke to him, and it was as if he was suddenly hypnotized.  He answered all my questions without even blinking.  He told us our shuttle had been captured and brought to their compound.  He also told us about the imminent attack on Voyager.  He said his clan steals technology from strangers because they're unable to produce their own."

        "And then?" Janeway encouraged him to go on.

        "We tied him up and continued north to find this compound."

        "You omitted the healing of Ensign Kim's wound," put in Tuvoc.

        "Oh, yes.  Harry was grazed by one of the first phaser shots.  Luke covered the wound with his hand, closed his eyes for a few moments, and the wound completely healed," Chakotay explained.

        "At any time did Luke say how he was able to do all these extraordinary things?" Janeway inquired.

        "He just said he was something called a Jedi and has special powers.  He said he would explain further when we returned to Voyager."

        "I'm looking forward to it.  And your shuttle was at this compound?"

        "Yes, but there was a high wall surrounding it, perhaps eight meters tall.  Luke jumped to the top, then levitated each of us up to join him.  There were two guards at the shuttle.  He put them into a deep slumber, then lowered us down to the ground.  We made it into the shuttle without incident.  More aliens appeared as we started the engines, but their shots simply bounced off the shields.  And here we are," Chakotay concluded.

        "Hmm," replied the Captain thoughtfully.  "Did Luke, at any time, try to take command of the mission, or usurp your authority in any way?"

        "No, not at all," came Chakotay's quick reply.  "He made suggestions, but it was always clear that I was in charge.  In that regard, he was still the same as he's always been.  But it was also certain that he's been in this kind of situation before. 

He saw what needed to be done, and he didn't hesitate.  In fact, Neelix and the others managed to find out from him that he had been a commander during a war in their galaxy."

        "Interesting. Well," Janeway let out a breath.  "I guess it's time to talk to our guests."  She tapped her comm badge.  "Luke and Mara Skywalker, this is the Captain.  Please report to my ready room."

        "At once, Captain," came the reply.

 

        The Captain's door signal chimed.

        "Enter," she invited, as she opened the door via the control on her desk.

        Luke and Mara walked into the ready room, both looking rather apprehensive.  Janeway motioned for them to sit in the chairs just vacated by Chakotay and Tuvoc, who stood nearby.

        "And I thought your telepathic abilities were impressive," she began, looking at both Luke and Mara.  "But the report I've received from Chakotay and Tuvoc is incredible."

        "I suppose it would appear that way," was Luke's reply.

        "First of all, I wish to thank you for everything you did during the away mission, and for the warning of the attack on Voyager.  Now, you may have been under the impression that I don't run a very tight ship here," the Captain continued.  "I assure you, nothing could be further from the truth."

        The Captain directed her attention to Luke.  "I don't care for surprises, Mr. Skywalker.  I expect to be informed of the capabilities of every member of this crew, and that includes both of you."

        Luke could feel Mara becoming agitated without even looking at her, but he wasn't expecting her to use her anger to defend him.

        Mara leapt to her feet.  "How can you talk to Luke like that?!  He's a Jedi Master, for Sith's sake.  Don't you realize he could crush your puny ship with just a thought?"

        "Mara!" Luke grabbed her arm and pulled her back down.  "That's enough.  The Captain's right.  We should have said something long ago."  He turned back to Janeway.  "I...We...apologize.  We should not have hidden our powers."

        Mara continued to fume, but Captain Janeway seemed to accept Luke's apology.

        "Perhaps, then, you will indulge us with an explanation."

        Luke finally let go of Mara's arm, and taking a deep breath, began his story, much like Obi-Wan Kenobi explained to him so many years ago.

        "There is an energy field generated by all living things.  It surrounds us, and binds us.  Certain individuals in our galaxy, both human and alien, have the power to use this force.  It both controls our actions and obeys our commands.  Many who have this ability to use the Force choose to become Jedi, such as Mara and

I.  The Jedi are the guardians of peace and justice in our galaxy."

        "I believe Mara 'mentioned' that you are a Jedi Master," Janeway interjected.   

        "Yes, I am.  I began an academy to train Jedi. You see, I really am a teacher, though I guess you could call me semi-retired. And meditation is an important subject there."  Luke smiled at Tuvoc and Chakotay.

        "And do you teach at this academy, Mara?" asked Chakotay.

        "No, I... haven't quite finished my own training yet," Mara replied sullenly.

        "I would think a Jedi Master's wife would rate private lessons," Janeway quipped.

        Luke and Mara exchanged glances.  *We have to come clean on this matter too,* Luke sent.  Mara just nodded.

        "Actually, Captain, we're not married," Luke admitted, shifting uncomfortably in his seat.

        "But we'd like to be," Mara put in, much to Luke's surprise.

        "Indeed."  The Captain seemed surprised also.  "Well, you're certainly giving a good impression of being married.  So why all this subterfuge?  As I said before, I don't appreciate being kept in the dark in regards to my crew."

        "When we first arrived, we didn't expect to be here very long," Luke began.  "And then when it looked like we were staying, well, it would have been hard to say, 'By the way, we have special powers.'"

        "You could have tried," the Captain countered.

        Luke didn't bother to explain that Jedi do not 'try.'  "In our galaxy, Jedi are either revered or hated.  Very seldom do I get to enjoy anonymity.  I suppose it was selfish, but it has been a lifetime since I was able to be a regular person."

        "Hmm.  But why pretend to be married?  We're fairly open-minded here.  We wouldn't have objected to your sharing quarters," the Captain stated.

        "I'll defer this explanation to Mara," Luke replied.

        Mara frowned at him, but knew she was trapped.  "All right.  When we first landed in your docking bay, and I came down the ramp, well you see, sometimes it's a curse to be able to hear other people's thoughts.  The truth is, some of your crew," and Mara glanced at Chakotay, "especially Tom and Harry, were thinking rather suggestive thoughts about me."  Janeway thought she noticed Chakotay blushing slightly.  "And I figured if they thought I was married, they'd leave me alone.  We only planned on being here a few hours.  We haven't even ever been on a date," Mara added, glancing at Luke.

        "Well, we can move you to separate quarters now, if you wish," Janeway offered.

        "No!"  Luke and Mara spoke at once.  Luke continued,  "Staying together is the best thing that's ever happened to us."

        "I understand," Janeway smiled.  "One thing bothers me, though.  Mara, you said you heard the crew's thoughts.  Does this mean both of you listen in on all our thoughts?"  The Captain was no longer smiling.

        "Certainly not," Luke assured her.  "We don't eavesdrop.  It's just that those particular thoughts that day were coming through loud and clear."

        "The next time you want to know anyone's thoughts, please ask," the Captain instructed them.

        "Of course," they agreed.

        "Captain Janeway," Luke knew it was time to find out their fate.  "We apologize again for not disclosing our true selves.  We never meant to disavow your authority on this ship.  If you wish us to leave, we will do so at once.  We do not wish to cause you further trouble."

        Janeway studied them carefully, clasping her hands.  "Master Skywalker," she began, then stopped and looked at him, "that is how you are addressed, I suppose?"

        "Yes."

        "Master Skywalker, Mara," she began again, "I would like to learn more about the ways of the Jedi.  I feel you must have fascinating tales to share.  And how can I do that if you leave so soon?  I invited you once to stay as long as you wish.  That

invitation is still open.  It is I who should be apologizing to you."  She smiled slightly.  "You don't know how many times I escape to the holodeck just to hide away and be a regular person.  Please stay."

        Mara reached over and grasped Luke's hand.  They looked at each and Janeway surmised they were talking it over silently.

        Luke spoke first.  "We will stay, if you truly want us to.  But there must be something we can do to atone for our deception."

        "Perhaps there is, Master Skywalker," Captain Janeway appeared thoughtful.  "I believe everyone you know on this ship has the right to the truth concerning both of you.  I am going to call a meeting of the entire senior staff, and you two will address them, explaining yourselves as you have here, and answering all their questions."

        "Agreed, and please call me Luke."  Luke relaxed visibly.  Perhaps this wasn't such a fiasco after all.  It would be a relief not to hide anymore.   

        "Now, in gratitude for your most likely saving the lives of my away team, what can I do for you?"  the Captain asked them.

        "You have done so much already, and Jedi never act in the hope of receiving payment, but there is one small favor we would ask."  Luke hesitated, then looked to Mara for reassurance.  "During our stay I have availed myself of a few of your computer's many files, and I discovered that in your Starfleet, a ship's captain has the authority to perform marriage ceremonies for passengers."  Luke took a deep breath and Mara squeezed his hand tighter.  "Would you do us the honor?"

        Janeway broke into a wide smile.  "It would be my pleasure."

        There were many handshakes and congratulations issued, then all began leaving to prepare for the upcoming staff meeting in one hour.

        Captain Janeway stopped Mara just as she headed for the door. "Mara, might I have a few moments with you, alone?"

        The others left, and Mara seated herself apprehensively in the lounge area where the Captain indicated.

        "I'm sorry for my earlier outburst, Captain.  I have quite a temper at times, I'm afraid."

        "No need to apologize.  I can see why you and B'Elanna have become friends.  Mara, I had a few more questions, and I think I would get more honest answers from you than from Luke.  He seems a bit on the modest side."

        Mara laughed.  "That's an understatement.  What would you like to know?"

        "You said, and I quote, 'he could crush your puny ship with just a thought.'  Was that, hopefully, an exaggeration?"

        "No, Captain, it was not.  I've seen him do many amazing feats, and heard of many others.  His brother-in-law told me Luke once built a massive fortress out of a pile of rubble with the Force, and then later demolished it into oblivion, all without

lifting a finger.  Destroying this ship would not be beyond his capabilities.  But to allay your concerns, Captain, even though he could do it, he wouldn't do it.  He never harms anyone or destroys anything unless it is an absolute last resort."

        "I'm glad to hear it, and I believe you.  Chakotay and Tuvoc relayed how none of the aliens were harmed on the planet."

        "Luke is the most kind, compassionate, righteous man there is.  He believed in me and called me a friend when no one else would.  I still find it hard to believe he's fallen in love with me."  Mara's eyes were bright with passion.

        The Captain continued in her curiosity.  "I take it Luke is well-known in your galaxy, more so than you?"

        "Luke is a war hero, the top war hero.  He destroyed a huge space station of death when he was just 18, when he barely knew what the Force was.  He formed an elite squadron of fighter pilots and became the youngest commander ever.  He then played a key role in the end of the war, and has continued to fight for justice for all races of beings.  There are many statues and monuments dedicated to him.  He resurrected the Jedi order, which had become all but extinct, and is the only living Jedi Master."

        Mara leaned back in her chair.  "You didn't know him before we came here.  He was a very different person, always serious, always worried about how his students would turn out.  He rarely laughed or joked in public.  He has borne the weight of the entire galaxy on his shoulders, and has never asked for anything in return.  And yes, Captain, he is very modest."

        Captain Janeway could hear the admiration in Mara's voice as she spoke.  "And you, Mara, what is your story?  And what is your last name, by the way?"

        Mara sighed.  "My name is Mara Jade."

        "As in Jade's Fire," the Captain deduced.

        "Yes, and my story ... is quite different from Luke's.  The war in our galaxy began when a senator took control of the government.  He had Force powers, but he used them for evil, and declared himself Emperor.  He took me from my home when I was very young, because he recognized my Force potential, and molded me into his personal servant.  Luke turned out to be his greatest enemy, and his enemies were my enemies.  I was ordered to kill Luke, but failed, obviously.  I did not actually meet Luke until five years after the war, after the Emperor was dead.  He was not the vile person I expected, and eventually we became friends, though somewhat distant.  I've been helping the new government for some time now, though many still do not trust me.  Sometimes at night, as I lie beside Luke, I still cannot comprehend the miracle that has brought us together.  Now, I can't imagine life without him."

        "I believe, Mara," the Captain observed, "that you two compliment each other; two lonely people who have found comfort and love in each other's arms.  Apparently it has taken you both many years to realize that you need each other."

        "You're a very intuitive woman, Captain Janeway."

        "As are you, Mara Jade."

 

        When Mara returned to her quarters, Luke was waiting for her.  He enveloped her in a passionate embrace and kissed her tenderly.  "So, what did the Captain want?" he asked curiously.

        "Just girl talk," Mara teased.

 

        The senior staff assembled in the conference room at the appointed time.  Present were Chakotay, Tuvoc, Paris, Kim, Torres, Neelix, the Doctor, and Seven of Nine.  Tom, Harry, and Neelix had filled in B'Elanna, the Doctor, and Seven on the events of the away mission, though their story met with much disbelief.  Luke and Mara entered, followed shortly by the Captain.

        Janeway addressed the group.  "We are here to clear up any rumors or guesses that may be circulating.  The Skywalkers are prepared to explain their unique abilities, and to answer any questions you may have.  Luke?"  She yielded the floor to the Jedi Master.

        Luke rose, and launched into his explanation of the Jedi, much as he had for the Captain an hour earlier.  As he concluded, Seven of Nine was the first to speak.

        "I have heard your claims, and what the away team says they saw, but I have seen no proof of these claims.  I wish to see a demonstration of these so-called Force powers," Seven stated.

        "It seems we have a doubting Thomas among us," Janeway smiled.

        "What's that?" Luke and Mara and several others looked puzzled.

        "An old Earth expression," Jane explained.

        "Well, I really don't do demo..." Luke started to say when Mara elbowed him.

        "It won't hurt you, just this once," she chided him.

        He turned to her, "Why don't you, then?  You can levitate objects."

        "I'm not nearly as skilled as ... oh, all right."  She looked around the room.  There were several datapads lying on the table.  Mara concentrated, and one of them rose slowly, then moved through the air.  Luke watched proudly; he hadn't really been sure how Mara's levitation skills had progressed. 

        As Mara moved the pad above the heads of the crew, suddenly the rest of the datapads rose one by one, and sailed behind her lead one.

        "So you decided to join in the fun after all," Mara called out to Luke, while maintaining her concentration.  "Up for a game of follow the leader?"

        "Lead on," he replied. 

        Mara's datapad suddenly sped up, engaging in a series of abrupt twists and turns in and around the astonished crew.  She even stopped it in mid-air once, and Luke caused all the rest to stop without missing a beat.  She pushed it forward again, in even more intricate patterns, weaving and dodging around the room.  Luke kept the rest following behind like a tail on a kite, matching her motions exactly.  Finally she settled the datapad back in its original position on the table, and Luke did likewise with the rest, gently lowering them without a sound.

        Mara grinned at the crew.  "The lead datapad shows what a half-trained Jedi can do with the Force.  Those that followed are only a small demonstration of what a Master can do."

        "It was an effective demonstration," Seven admitted.

        At the very least, it was an ice-breaker.  All at once, everyone had plenty of questions.  Luke and Mara answered them all with patience and humor.  Finally, Neelix brought up a question on the one subject they hadn't gotten to yet.

        "So, do you have a home near this academy?" he asked, looking at both of them.

        "I live at the Academy, but Mara ..." Luke began.

        "We're not married," Mara confessed.  "Just engaged."  A frown from Luke caused her to continue.  "And only friends when we first arrived here."

        Stunned silence filled the room.

        "You fell in love after you got here."  It was more a statement than a question from Neelix.

        "Yes," was Mara's quiet reply.  "Maybe."  She looked at Luke.  "Or maybe it was ten years ago."

        "And we just admitted it," he put in.  "To ourselves and to each other."

        "How romantic," Neelix exclaimed.  "You said you were engaged.  When did you plan on marrying?"

        "Captain Janeway graciously agreed to perform the ceremony," Luke replied, nodding toward the Captain.  "So I guess whenever she is ready."

        "I'd say the sooner we get these two married, the better," Janeway laughed.

        "But we have to plan a celebration!" Neelix protested.  "With a party, and food."

        "And a wedding cake," added Harry.

        "And dancing," B'Elanna put in.

        "You must give us a few days to prepare," Neelix beseeched.  "At least three days."

        The Captain looked at Luke and Mara with raised eyebrows.  "Will three days be all right with you?" she asked.

        "Yes, but, we really don't need a party.  Just a quiet ceremony is all ..." Luke began.  He felt bad enough about pretending to be married already.

        "Nonsense," Neelix interjected.  "We haven't had a wedding here on Voyager yet.  Please allow us to do this for you.  You don't have any objections, do you, Captain?"

        "Of course not.  I think everyone could use a celebration," she agreed.

        "Then it's settled.  A wedding in three days."

        Everyone rose, and began congratulating Luke and Mara.  Even more questions poured forth about the Force and the Jedi.  Finally, Neelix, Tom, Harry, and B'Elanna excused themselves to begin the wedding preparations.

 

        Luke and Mara were eventually able to extricate themselves, and walked back to their quarters.

        "It's been an interesting day, farmboy," Mara teased.

        "What makes you say that?" Luke replied, a deadpan expression on his face.  "Just because I had to use the Force, now everyone knows about us, probably the whole ship by now, and all of a sudden we're getting married in three days.  You call that interesting?  You must have a dull life when I'm not around, Jade."

        "Compared to the monk's life you led, you mean," she retorted.

        They fell onto the couch, laughing and kissing.

        "You know, a marriage ceremony for two Jedi isn't the same as for anyone else," Luke commented as he held her tightly.  "There is a Force-bonding ritual that follows the vows part."

        Mara pulled up and looked at him.  "What kind of Force-bonding?  I thought we already had a bond."

        "We do.  We're probably halfway there already."  He kissed her lightly.  "But the ritual makes the bond even stronger, and permanent.  My thoughts and feelings will be your thoughts and feelings, and vice-versa.  For the rest of our lives, no matter

how far apart we are.  We will be as one soul.  It is the strongest connection possible for Jedi."

        "Stronger than your bond with Leia?" Mara asked.

        "Yes."  He stroked her hair.

        "And how do you know about this?  I don't recall any Jedi getting married to each other in the last 20 years," she continued her questioning.

        "I read a lot.  About Jedi history.  There isn't much else to do when you lead a monk's life."

        "And you know how to perform this ritual?"

        "Yes, I do."  He brought her face up to meet his gaze.  "Mara, we don't have to do that part, if you don't want.  We can just have a normal wedding, like regular people do."

        She reached up and stroked his cheek.  "But we're not regular people, are we?  You said yourself we're halfway there, and I like what we have together now.  I don't want to feel like we're missing out on having something even better.  We should do the ritual.  I want to, Luke."

        He pulled her closer and they kissed passionately, each reveling in the feelings of love pouring from the other.  Luke rose effortlessly with Mara in his arms, and started for the bedroom.

        "Are you sure we should ...," Mara asked demurely.  "I mean, we'll be married soon, maybe we should wait ..."

        The look on Luke's face was priceless, Mara thought.  He stopped and blinked at her several times.  All of a sudden, he dropped Mara on the floor right where they stood.

        "You're right.  You take the couch tonight.  I'm going to go get some dinner."  She wasn't going to best him.  He headed for the door.

        Mara sprang up and tackled him from behind.  "You go out that door and it'll be the last thing you ever do!"

        "But my dear, didn't you just say ..." Luke wasn't done with her yet.

        "Never mind what I said, funny man.  You are not going to leave me unfulfilled."

        "Unful..., so, you admit I fulfill your needs, hmm."

        "You ...you ..., wipe that smirk off your face right now."

        Luke was sure he had never been this happy or carefree in his entire life.  He stood, pulled Mara up, and slung her over his shoulder.  "Then I guess we've got some fulfilling to do.  We can eat dinner afterward."

        They never did get around to going out to dinner that evening.

       

Part III

 

 

The Next Day

 

        The next morning it was back to work.  At least that's what Luke thought.  Neelix appeared startled when Luke entered the galley just before 11:00.

        "What are you doing here?" he asked.

        Luke glanced around.  "Don't I still work here?"

        "You're a Jedi Master.  We can't have you working in the mess hall," Neelix protested.

        "But I like working here.  I don't want things to change," Luke said wearily.  "Don't you see?  We want to be treated just like everyone else.  That's why we didn't say anything about being Jedi when we first got here.  Please, Neelix, let me stay."

        "Oh, all right.  But if you want to use your magic powers in here, go right ahead."

        "Thanks."  Luke was relieved.  "Now, what's on today's menu?"

 

        Mara wasn't receiving quite the same reaction in engineering, however.

        "It's about time," B'Elanna scolded.  "We've got a lot of work to do."

        Mara looked around.  "What should I start on?"

        "Not here, silly."  B'Elanna grabbed her hand and started dragging her out.  "We have to design you a dress."

        "A dress?  What for?"

        "A wedding dress!  Were you planning on getting married in your work clothes?  Or do you have a wedding dress hidden away on that ship of yours?"

        "No, of course not.  But..."

        "Then c'mon.  Ensign Taneka worked in the fashion industry before joining Starfleet, and she can't wait to help with this.  It'll be fun," B'Elanna insisted.

        Mara allowed herself to be pulled to Ensign Taneka's quarters, and the three of them did indeed have a good time, sketching out and discarding numerous ideas before settling on a final choice.  It was a shimmering, off-the-shoulder, tea-length

gown in an emerald green that matched Mara's eyes.  Mara had rejected their idea of a white gown almost immediately.  White was not her color, and she didn't think it was appropriate, anyway, after hearing what the color white stood for.  The other two made her promise not to describe her dress to Luke at all; they insisted it must be a surprise.

        The next couple days passed quickly.  Tom and Harry had outfitted Luke in black formal wear, though he wasn't sure why they insisted on an emerald green sash to complete the outfit.  He had toyed with the idea of wearing his Jedi robes, but decided Mara never seemed too happy to see those robes on anyone, much less him.

 

        Finally, the big day arrived.  Luke had stayed up most of the night meditating.  At first Mara had been annoyed, but then she realized that kind of thing came with marrying a Jedi Master.  She used the time to do some meditating of her own.  When Luke did finally slip into bed, they held each other in silence before drifting off to sleep.

 

        The wedding was scheduled for noon in one of the holodecks Neelix had designed personally.

        Mara awoke first, showered, and slipped away to B'Elanna's rooms.  Tom and Harry arrived later to help Luke get ready.  They then made their way to the holodeck.

        Neelix had outdone himself with decorating.  The setting was a beautiful garden with exotic flowers and a rose-covered trellis.  The men entered, acknowledging the Captain and all the guests who had already arrived.  Luke glanced around, but saw no sign of Mara.

        "She'll be here, don't worry," Tom chuckled.  Luke had chosen Tom as his best man.  This wedding was to be in the Earth tradition, which didn't differ too much from Coruscant's customs, they discovered.

        Harry was the designated wedding photographer, using Mara's holorecorder from her ship.

        Soon, music filled the air.  Luke and Tom stood near the trellis, where Captain Janeway waited in her finest dress uniform.  The holodeck door opened and B'Elanna walked through slowly, proceeding toward the front.  Tom thought she never looked lovelier.  As maid of honor, she wore a simple gown of burgundy and cream.

        Luke was staring at the open doorway, oblivious to everyone else.  Mara appeared, and Luke thought his heart would burst.  She was more beautiful than he could ever have imagined.  Their eyes locked as Mara walked slowly forward.  She carried a bouquet of flowers, and had some braided into her hair as well.

        Mara, for her part, thought Luke couldn't possibly look any more handsome.  Her hands felt clammy as his bright blue eyes were filled with his love for her.  She reached his side, and they turned to face the Captain.

       

        "Friends, we are gathered here to join Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade in the bonds of matrimony.  They joined us as strangers, and now stay with us as friends.  They will now pledge their commitment to one another.  Luke," the Captain nodded at

him.

        "Mara, in the years we have known each other, we have progressed from enemies, to comrades, to friends, to lovers.  And now I will be proud to be your husband.  I will love you, and treasure you, for the rest of my life."

        The Captain smiled and turned to the bride, "Mara?"

        "Luke, you have called me your friend even when I didn't feel worthy.  You have given me your unconditional trust and respect when no one else did.  I will be proud to be your wife.  I will love you, and treasure you, for the rest of my life."

        Captain Janeway nodded at Tom and B'Elanna, who produced the matching simple gold rings.  Although wedding rings were not that common at home, Luke and Mara thought they would like that particular Earth custom.  They didn't mind that the gold bands had been replicated.

        Luke held Mara's left hand, and slipped the ring on her finger, saying, "Mara, I give you this ring as a symbol of my eternal love and fidelity."

        Mara, in turn, placed Luke's ring on his finger, echoing his words.

        Holding hands, they faced the Captain once more.

        "We have witnessed your vows of love and commitment, and are honored to be included in this celebration.  And now, by the authority vested in me by Starfleet Command, I now pronounce you husband and wife."  She nodded to Luke, "You may kiss your wife."

        Luke wasted no time in pulling Mara close and kissing her enthusiastically, invoking applause from the happy on-lookers.  Luke felt so light-hearted he actually levitated them off the floor for a few moments, then gently lowered them back down.

 

        From there everyone proceeded to the feast Neelix had prepared.  Luke and Mara were seated at the head of the table, joined by their new friends.

        "So, Mara," began Neelix, "during the away mission Luke was telling us about a war against an evil Emperor that was fought in your galaxy.  He said you two were on different sides."

        Mara looked at Luke with raised eyebrows, but Luke chose to remain silent.

        "So how did you two meet?" Neelix continued.

        Everyone fell silent, waiting for Mara's reply.  Mara, for her part, decided if Luke thought they should be truthful in everything, that's what she would do.

        "Well, if you really want to know, I wasn't just on the Imperial side.  I was the Emperor's personal assassin.  Luke was one of my targets."

        You could have heard a dava pin drop in the room.  Everyone looked from Mara to Luke and back again.

        Luke broke the silence.  "She missed."

        "My only miss, you might add," Mara harrumphed.  She waved her fork at Luke.  "And you know that was only because Jabba wouldn't let me on the sail barge."

        "For which I am eternally grateful," Luke grinned.  "Though you had plenty of other opportunities later.  And that's not how we actually met, anyway.  I didn't even see you that day."

        "A technicality.  I saw you.  Okay, so we didn't meet face-to-face until five years later."

        Mara turned to the others and began the story.  "You see, this hotshot here had burned out both hyperdrive motivators on his X-wing, and was sitting stranded in space, in the middle of nowhere.  My associates and I rescued him."

        Luke suddenly choked on his food. "Rescued?  You mean you and your smuggler friends captured me."

        "I didn't see anyone else around trying to save your sorry behind.  We could have just left you there to die."

        "Most rescues don't involve being knocked out and locked up."

        "I seem to recall it didn't take you long to break out, even without the Force.  So then I had to capture you all over again."

        "Which gave you plenty of other chances to kill me, that you didn't take."

        "I thought I might need you to get out of the forest," Mara said defensively.

        "Seems you've needed me for a lot of years now," Luke chuckled.  "Why, just the other night in bed, you said you needed me to..."

        Mara swiftly kicked him under the table.

        "Ow!" Luke cried out in mock pain.

               

        Voyager's crew was enthralled by the newlyweds' banter, who in turn did fill in the details of that first meeting on Myrkr.

        "Are we finally getting to know the real Luke and Mara?" questioned the Captain, as they concluded their story.

        "'Fraid so, Captain," Luke smiled.  "Whether that's a good thing or not remains to be seen."

        "You've given up this assassin career, I hope?" Chakotay turned to Mara.  "And smuggling career?"

        "Of course.  I'm a legit trader now.  Everything above board."  Some of the others weren't quite sure if Mara sounded proud or remorseful.

        "On that note, I believe it's time for some dancing," Neelix announced.  Everyone moved to the dance floor, as Neelix instructed the computer on which songs to play.  He looked expectantly at Luke and Mara as the first song started.  "You know, the bride and groom have to lead the dancing."

        Mara smiled widely as Luke paled.  She grabbed his hand and dragged him out to the center of the floor.  *At least it's a slow song,* he thought.

        *I'm sure there'll be faster ones later,* she returned.

        Luke's nervousness slipped away as he held Mara close.  His confidence grew as Mara guided him through the steps.  He even eventually asked B'Elanna and the Captain to dance, as Mara took a turn with most of the men in attendance.  She loved to dance, and it showed in her happy countenance.

        Finally, the joyous evening drew to a close.  Everyone took their leave, and Mara and Luke returned to their quarters, arms encircling each other's waist.

 

        Mara disappeared into the 'fresher as Luke began to change clothes.  He gave a low whistle when she emerged.  She was wearing a very provocative black negligee, with her long hair hanging loose down her back. 

        "Heck, I would've proposed years ago if I had known you were so sexy," he teased. 

        She came over and rubbed her hands across his bare shoulders.  "You're not so bad yourself, farmboy."

        Luke had stripped down to a pair of silk boxers.  He cupped her face lightly and kissed her softly on the lips.

        "Are you ready?" he whispered.  She didn't have to ask to what he was referring.  The Jedi marriage ritual.  Luke had explained what would be involved, and though Mara was apprehensive, she knew this bond would be an important part of their marriage.

 

        Luke gently took her hand and led her to their bed, where they sat cross-legged, facing each other, fingers intertwined.  They had agreed Mara would go first, so she would know what to expect when Luke entered her mind.

        Luke nodded to Mara, and they both closed their eyes.  The room was lit only by a single candle.  Luke opened his mind completely, and Mara tentatively entered his awareness.  Luke guided her to his deepest feelings and memories.  She felt his own

apprehensiveness, though he encouraged her to continue.  She finally reached the spot where his earliest memories lay.  Together they remembered his childhood on Tatooine, his strict uncle and loving aunt.  Mara felt Luke's pain at being an outsider to his friends, except for Biggs.  They continued through his wonderment at learning about the Force from Ben, his anguish at his guardians' and mentor's deaths, his jealousy over Leia, his years with the Rebel Alliance.  Mara felt his determination while training with Yoda, and his despair over learning Vader was his father.

        Seeing the events in Luke's life through his mind was decidedly different than the Emperor's point of view had been.  She felt his attraction to her from the first moment he saw her, confirming his admission to her the night he proposed.  She also felt his disappointment that she didn't seem interested in him, and his many years of loneliness.  She squeezed Luke's hands a little tighter as his memories of Callista flew by, his hope that he had at last found someone who loved him, and his deep

depression when she left him.  Mara could feel Luke's acceptance, on Nam Chorios, that it was not his and Callista's destiny to be together.

        The newlyweds journeyed through the rest of Luke's memories, ending with their wedding this very day.  There was no doubt in Mara's own mind as to Luke's overwhelming love for her, much stronger than he had had for Callista or anyone else.  They both opened their eyes, as Luke recited, "My memories are now your memories; my thoughts are now your thoughts; we are one."

        Mara took a deep breath and shut her eyes.  She felt Luke gently entering her mind now, seeking her innermost secrets, reassuring her all the way.  She relaxed, feeling comforted by his presence.  They began at her earliest memories, that of being

taken from her family by the Emperor when she was about five years old.  Mara's breath caught as she saw glimpses of her mother and father, crying and being pushed back by stormtroopers.  Images rolled by of being tutored by Palpatine's hand-picked instructors, with lessons in the Force by the Emperor himself.  The recollections of all her missions surfaced, beginning when she was about 18.  Luke finally got to see her as a dancer at Jabba's, and experienced the Emperor's anger at her failure.

        He journeyed with her through her many wanderings after the Emperor's death, ending up with Karrde's organization.  He felt her doubts and hesitations when she finally caught up with him, and her relief at eventually being rid of Palpatine's last

command.  He felt her growing attraction to him weighed against her pride and need for independence.  He now knew how much she regretted her previous aloofness when he took up with Callista, but also how she felt his pain when Callista rejected him in favor of her quest for the Force.

        Luke saw how Mara always kept track of his whereabouts, never hesitating to help if he needed it.  He felt her unconditional love for him, and her desire to be with him always.

        They opened their eyes slowly, and Mara took her turn in reciting, "My memories are now your memories; my thoughts are now your thoughts; we are one."

        Luke and Mara both felt an overwhelming sense of peace and love come over them, more comforting than they could ever imagine.  They were now ready for the final part of the Jedi marriage ritual, the physical joining.

        Luke pulled his bride to a standing position next to the bed with him, and kissed her gently on the lips.  He caressed her slowly, while his lips traveled down her neck and shoulders.  He effortlessly removed the negligee, and continued his ministrations over her entire body.  When he straightened back up, Mara reached down and removed his shorts, kissing his chest and abdomen, while caressing the rest of him.

        The ability to now feel their partner's emotions as clearly as their own was intoxicating.  Though they had previously been able to sense the feelings coming from each other, with their new bond there was no need to reach out with the Force to sense the other; it was instantaneous.  Even Luke couldn't have predicted the indescribable exhilaration they were experiencing.

        Finally they collapsed onto the bed, where the real lovemaking began in earnest.  There was no need for verbal communication; as soon as one of them expressed a thought, the other shared that same thought.

 

        Hours later, they lay still, wrapped in each other's arms.  Mara drifted off to sleep first, but Luke lay awake a while longer, marveling over what had just transpired between them.  Truly, their lives would never be the same again.  His thoughts drifted to the fact that he and Mara were the only two married Jedi in existence, that he knew of.  So were they the only ones who could achieve the level of ecstasy that they had experienced tonight, and would continue to experience?  He quickly dismissed a pang of sympathy for Leia and Han.  They had their own special union; it wasn't right for him to dwell on anyone else's relationship. 

        Luke did come to the conclusion that Mara was the only woman possible for him to have this bond with.  Even if Callista had never lost her powers, though he loved her, he had never hungered for her the way he did for Mara.  He doubted he would be able to go on if anything ever happened to her.  Luke finally joined Mara in sleep, and they both shared the same blissful dreams.

 

        Uncharacteristically, Mara awoke first.  She felt Luke's presence so clearly it almost startled her.  How could she ever have doubted that she was meant to be with Luke Skywalker?  If anyone had tried to tell her two months ago that she would be married to him, she would have had them committed to the insane asylum on Loravie III.  Yet, here she was, Mrs. Luke Skywalker, and so infatuated with him she couldn't see straight.

        She glanced over at her sleeping lover.  All the years we wasted, she thought.  But maybe Luke was right.  Maybe they weren't ready to be together until now.  He had been busy with his academy, in between rounds of saving the galaxy.  She needed time to adjust to being with the New Republic, and establishing herself as an independent trader.  She still didn't like Luke's ideas on destiny, but perhaps in this case he was right.  Something brought them to this galaxy, giving them a chance to be together.  Well, whatever it was, she was grateful.

 

        Luke and Mara lounged around until noon, then fixed themselves a light lunch.  Afterwards, they both sat back and looked at each other as if to say "Now what?"  Captain Janeway had given them the day off.

 

        Finally Mara jumped up, went into the bedroom, and got dressed in exercise clothes.  She emerged and tossed Luke his lightsaber.

        "C'mon, get dressed.  We haven't had a good lightsaber workout since we arrived on this ship."

        Luke noticed she already had her lightsaber clipped to her belt.  He got up grinning.  "I suppose only Jedi would do this on their honeymoon," he laughed.

 

        As they proceeded to the gym, they were met by Commander Chakotay.

        "So where are you two newlyweds off to?"

        "Lightsaber practice," Mara replied easily.

        Chakotay saw then that Mara also had one of the interesting weapons.  "What, you shoot at each other and deflect the shots?"

        "Not exactly," Luke laughed.  "We duel."'

        "Like fencing?" Chakotay asked.

        "That depends on what fencing is," Luke answered.

        "Would you mind an audience?" Chakotay inquired hopefully.

        Mara and Luke looked at each other and shrugged.  "Why not?  Sure, come along." Luke agreed.

        When they reached the gym, Chakotay stood to the side, not quite sure what to expect.  Luke and Mara slightly bowed to each other, then took defensive postures as they ignited their lightsabers with a snap-hiss.

        Mara struck first, swinging her blade in a wide arc toward Luke's head.  He swiftly ducked, and countered with a slice to her knees.  Mara spun out of the way, and returned a swing at his mid-section.  He flipped over her head, landing behind her.  Mara spun to face him, and their blades sizzled as she blocked his swing.

        Chakotay quietly spoke into his comm badge.  "Captain, would you please come to the gym on Level Three?  You have got to see this to believe it.  And you might want to bring Tuvoc with you."

        "What's going on, Commander?" came the reply.

        "You'll see when you get here."

 

        Moments later, Janeway and Tuvoc entered the gym.  They were greeted with the sight of Luke and Mara slashing, blocking, flipping, and spinning.  The spectators stared wide-mouthed as Luke avoided Mara's quick blow by springing in a blur up to the

catwalk which surrounded the room.  Mara frowned at him, then jumped and joined him.  They continued their duel on the narrow platform as gracefully as they had on the floor.

        Finally, the competition came to an end.  Mara and Luke shut down their lightsabers and saluted each other.  Janeway noticed Mara was panting slightly, but Luke was barely breathing hard.  They clipped their weapons to their belts, and walked over to greet their audience.

 

        "Most impressive!" came the admiring reaction.

        "You Jedi certainly have strange honeymoon customs," Janeway quipped.

        "Well, we were out of practice, and you did give us the day off," Luke explained, smiling.

        "But why do you need to practice fighting each other?  Do you have enemies that also wield lightsabers?" asked Tuvoc.

        "Unfortunately, yes.  There are a few dark Jedi left who use their powers for destruction," Mara answered.

        "Lightsaber practice is an important part of a Jedi's training," Luke went on.  "But only the advanced students use real lightsabers.  It can be very dangerous."

        "Have you ever had to battle a dark Jedi?" Chakotay asked Luke.

        "Yes, several times, unfortunately," he answered solemnly.

        "And you were always victorious?  With skill like yours, I don't see how anyone could defeat you," Janeway asked curiously.

        Luke looked down uncomfortably.  "I was defeated in my first battle.  I rushed to fight before I was fully trained."  He flexed his right hand, then raised it.  "That's how I lost my hand," he added quietly.

        Janeway felt terrible about bring up what must have been an awful memory.  Luke reached out and touched her arm gently.  "It's all right.  It was many years ago.  And I learned ... many valuable lessons that day."

        The others were silent.  Mara could hear the questions in their heads.

        "I never had to face another Jedi in a prolonged battle,"

Mara answered their unspoken wonderings.  "But I know if I do, I'll be ready."  She glanced at her husband.  "I've been trained by the best."

 

        Luke noticed Tuvoc was staring at his saber.  He unclipped it and handed it to him.  "Would you like to see how it works?" he asked, ready for a change in the conversation.  Tuvoc and Chakotay were fascinated with his explanation of how a lightsaber is constructed.

        Mara and the Captain wandered over to a locker, where Mara grabbed a towel.  "The teacher is in his glory," Mara smiled, as Luke was demonstrating the proper handgrip.

        "I'm so sorry we asked about battling other Jedi," the Captain apologized.  "We didn't mean to bring up bad memories."

        "Don't feel bad, you couldn't have known.  It's just that the first dark Jedi who defeated him ... was his own father."

        Janeway was stunned.  "I'm so sorry.  Is his father...?"

        "He's dead now," Mara quickly put in.  "He turned back to the good side and saved Luke's life just before he died."

        "I see," said the Captain, not sure quite what to say.

        "Anyway, I think Luke's stronger for it."  Mara fingered her lightsaber.  "This had been Luke's father's lightsaber, before he turned to the dark side.  It's the one Luke was using when he ... when he lost his hand.  His father was trying to talk him into joining him, but Luke refused."

        "How did he survive?"

        "By letting himself fall down an air shaft.  He didn't recover his lightsaber until several years later, not long after we met.  He had already made himself a new one by then, and he gave me this one."

        "He must have thought a lot of you already then."

        Mara watched Luke coaching Chakotay on how to swing the blade.  "Yes, I suppose he did."

 

        The days passed quickly for the newlyweds.  Luke did worry about how Leia was handling his disappearance, and Mara occasionally lost her temper still, but overall they were happy and contented.

        One night as Luke was drifting off to sleep, Mara's thoughts turned to the possibility of having children.  While they'd only been married a month, they weren't getting any younger either.  Luke always seemed to enjoy his niece and nephews whenever she had seen them together.  She had no doubt he would make a great father; it was herself as a mother she had a harder time picturing.

        Luke rolled over, making himself more comfortable.

        "Luke," Mara said softly.

        "Hmm..." Mara faintly heard.

        "What do you think about children?"

        "Like 'em," was the sleepy reply, as he turned on his side facing away from her.

        "Do you think we're ready to have one?" she ventured.

        No answer.  Mara frowned, as she realized he was fast asleep.  She was due for her monthly hypospray tomorrow, but she was reluctant to take it.  Somehow, she knew she and Luke should have a baby, and that the time was right.  They weren't getting any closer to finding a way home, so there was nothing else to wait for.  Mara smiled to herself as she snuggled up behind Luke and put an arm around him.  She had made her decision; she would not get that hypospray tomorrow.

 

        Several weeks later, Mara woke with a start.  Something wasn't right.  The computer alarm hadn't announced that it was time to get up yet, and Luke was still sleeping.  Mara tried to relax, thinking to the previous night.  They had made love far into the night, even more passionately than usual.  So what could be wrong?

        Mara reached out with the Force, and sat up with a jolt.  She had felt another presence.  But how?  Where?

        "Computer, lights," Mara ordered, then squinted in the sudden brightness.  They were alone.

        "Computer, lights off."

        This was ridiculous.  She was being paranoid.  But still, she could feel a third presence in the room, and it felt somehow familiar.  She thought about waking Luke, then started picturing him teasing her for imagining things.

        Luke had been giving her lessons in Force-awareness during their time on Voyager.  Maybe it was time to practice what she'd learned.  Mara took a deep breath and cleared her mind.  She extended her Force sense out into the room, but the farther out she reached, the fainter the presence felt.  She reversed direction, and the closer she drew to herself, the more intense the presence seemed.  Mara's breath suddenly caught in her throat.  She shakily placed her hand on her abdomen, and reached inside herself with the Force.  There was no mistaking it, inside her was a tiny being that felt like Luke, felt like her, and yet felt unique all at the same time.  She was pregnant!

 

        Mara was both elated and scared.  What would Luke think?  She had never gotten around to telling him she didn't use the Doctor's hypospray this month.  She hadn't really even thought much about it since then, which is probably why Luke hadn't picked

up on it.  She hadn't expected to get pregnant this quickly.  Wasn't it supposed to take longer the older you were?  Surely Luke will be happy.  Won't he?  Or will he be disappointed that she didn't consult him first?  He hadn't been upset with her when she started taking the birth control.  Maybe he didn't want to have a baby.  But that was different; they hadn't been married yet then.

        Luke stirred next to her.  She wasn't ready to face him just yet.  Quietly Mara slipped into the shower.  As the warm water streamed over her, she felt again for her son or daughter.

        The baby felt so tiny.  They must have just conceived him last night.  Him?  Yes, a son.  Either intuition or the Force told Mara they would have a son.  The water helped relax her.  She began thinking about their lovemaking last night.  Who would have thought a moisture farmer could make her feel so good?

        "We could repeat those maneuvers in a vertical position," came a low voice behind her.  How could she be so relaxed she didn't notice him coming!

        "Up kind of early, aren't you?" Luke asked.

        "Well, I, uh, couldn't sleep, so I got up," Mara stammered.

        "Anything wrong?"  He sensed Mara's nervousness, but she didn't seem sick or injured.

        "No," Mara shook her head.

        Luke began kissing her neck, then stopped suddenly, straightened, and looked at her.  His puzzled look slowly turned to surprise, as realization of what he felt dawned on him.

        "Mara?" he whispered.  He slowly placed his palm on her stomach, and reached out with the Force.  "I thought you were still using the hyposprays."

        "I stopped a few weeks ago," she confessed.  This was not the reaction she had expected.

        "Without asking me?" Luke questioned further.

        "I don't need your permission for everything I do."  Mara was getting irritated.  He was supposed to be happy, not interrogating her.

        "Obviously," Luke retorted.  Without another word, he exited the shower.  After a few minutes she felt him leave their quarters.  Mara leaned back against the shower wall, tears streaming down her face.

 

        Luke wasn't sure where he was heading when he stormed out, or even why he was leaving.  He eventually found himself in hydro-ponics.  He slumped down in a corner, barely glancing at the carefully tended plants that surrounded him.  He had once joked

this room was as close to Yavin IV as he could get, the only place with hundreds of live plants, not holographic ones.

        Luke buried his face in his hands.  What was wrong with him?  For years he had dreamed of having a family of his own.  And now that it was a reality, why did he feel so ... frightened?  He hadn't been nervous when he and Mara had married.  A baby should be a welcome addition.  He could feel Mara's sorrow and disappointment over his reaction.  The child must have a very strong Force-presence for them to be able to detect it so early.

        Luke tried isolating his fears.  Could he and Mara successfully raise a Force-strong child?  Without it turning to the dark side?

        *There are no guarantees in life, Luke,* he heard in his mind.  He felt Mara's warm presence fill him.  *We can handle anything together, my husband.*

        Luke felt ashamed.  *I'm so sorry, Mara,* he sent back.  Luke quickly got to his feet and hurried back 'home.'

       

        When he arrived, he found Mara sitting on the floor, looking out at the stars.  She had her chin resting on her knees, arms hugging her legs.  Luke sat down next to her, and gingerly turned her face to look at him.  "I was so foolish.  Can you ever forgive me?"

        Mara gave him a weak smile and nodded.  "I was wrong not to discuss this with you first.  It seems I've been making all the procreation decisions by myself.  It is I who should be asking your forgiveness."

        Luke started to say something, but she laid a finger on his lips to silence him.

        "I started to talk to you about this once, but you fell asleep before I could get it out.  And then, well, I didn't think it would happen this quickly.  I thought I had plenty of time.  You must be pretty potent," she laughed softly.

        "Just crazy in love with you," Luke replied, as he hugged her close.  "This will take some getting used to, though."

        "We'll manage.  Leia and Han do okay with their kids."

        "You haven't seen all the scrapes the kids get themselves into.  And I know Leia is concerned about how they will turn out.  Growing up knowing Darth Vader was your grandfather is not an easy legacy for a child."

        "I imagine all parents wonder how their children will turn out.  You worry too much.  We'll raise him the best we can."

        Luke pondered her words.  "So you believe it's a boy?" he finally said.  "I can't tell yet."

        "I think it's more a feeling."

        Luke leaned down and kissed her stomach.  "Welcome to the world, my son."

 

        Luke and Mara decided to keep their news to themselves for awhile.  Luke, however, did insist they visit the Doctor.

        "You need to have a check-up, make sure everything is fine," he pointed out.

        "I'll talk to him during work this afternoon," Mara rationalized.  "A few more hours won't matter."

        "No, I want to go along.  It's about time I take an active part in this baby-making business."

        Mara snickered.  "I'd say you had a very active part last night."

        He took her arm.  "Very funny.  Let's go."

 

        They were greeted by the Doctor as they entered sickbay.

        "Well, to what do I owe this pleasure?  It's too early for your shift, Mara."

        "Mara needs a physical exam."  Luke got right to the point.  "She's pregnant."

        "I can speak for myself," Mara said indignantly.

        Luke merely motioned for her to continue.  She glared at him, but he could tell she wasn't angry.  Mara turned to the Doctor.

        "What he said," she stated simply.

        "Come lie down on an examination table," the Doctor invited.  "You can't be very far along, you only stopped the hypo-sprays two weeks ago."

        "Last night," Mara murmured.

        "Last night?" the Doctor repeated.  "How can you possibly tell already?"  The Doctor began running his medical tri-corder over her.

        "We can feel the baby's presence," Luke explained.

        "Both of you?"  The Doctor clearly found this hard to believe.  "Well, it seems you are correct."  He interpreted the tri-corder's readings.  "You are less than 24 hours pregnant.  Of course, it is too early to determine which sex the child will be."  He noted the look that Luke and Mara exchanged.  "Don't tell me you think you know that, too.  That's impossible."  The Doctor raised one eyebrow at them.

        "We're going to have a son." Mara replied.  "We just know, don't ask how."

      The Doctor shook his head.  "Your diagnostic skills are truly amazing."  He resumed his medical readings.  "At any rate, your overall physical condition is excellent.  You shouldn't have any problems with this pregnancy.  Congratulations."

        Mara sat back up.  "Thank you."  She glanced at Luke.  "We're going to wait awhile before making any announcements," she added.

        "I understand.  My lips are sealed, so to speak," the Doctor assured them.  "I'd like to check you every few weeks," he went on.  "We need to make sure you don't develop any vitamin deficiencies."

        "Of course," Mara agreed.

        Luke and Mara took their leave, and walked back to their quarters in silence, hand-in-hand.

 

        A few weeks later, Luke awoke to find a nauseated sensation coming from Mara.  He found her in the 'fresher, retching.

        "Mara, honey, are you all right?"

        "Do I look all right?" she mumbled, in between heavings.  Her face was pale, and sweat glistened on her forehead.  Luke hurried to get her a damp cloth and glass of water.  He wiped her face gently, and sent feelings of comfort her way as she rinsed out her mouth.

        "Morning sickness!  I can't believe it," she grumbled.  She leaned back against him as they sat on the floor of the 'fresher.

        "Surely the Doctor can give you something for this," Luke suggested hopefully.

        "Yeah, if I can make it all the way to sickbay without ... oh ..." Mara quickly leaned over the commode again, as another round hit her.  Luke held her hair back, feeling rather helpless.  When she settled down again, she eyed him critically.

        "I don't see you throwing up.  What happened to feeling what I feel?"

        "Well, I don't feel too good, but I guess it doesn't go quite that far.  C'mon, let's get you to sickbay."

        He helped her dress, and they made their way to see the Doctor.

        "You don't have to hold my arm.  I'm not an invalid," Mara scolded.

        "Sorry.  You just don't look too steady on your feet yet."

        "I'll be fine."

        Despite her assurances, Mara had to hurry to a nearby sink as soon as they entered sickbay.  To their relief, the Doctor did indeed have a remedy for morning sickness.  "Ah, the joys of motherhood," he commented.

        "Save it," Mara retorted sourly.  She was in no mood to be joked with.

        "Thanks, Doc," Luke smiled weakly, as he guided Mara back out.  The hypospray was starting to help already.  Mara fervently hoped they wouldn't pass anyone on the way; she knew she must look a fright.

        "You look fine.  Beautiful, as always," Luke assured her, receiving a glare in reply.  Fortunately it was early enough they made it back unnoticed.

 

        One day, about a month later, Neelix mentioned to Luke their upcoming talent show night.

        "Talent show?  What's that?"

        "Every three months, members of the crew take turns putting on a show for everyone else.  As morale officer, I had to come up with things to boost the morale of the crew.  They were reluctant at first, but now everyone looks forward to it."

        "What kind of show is it?" Luke asked.

        "A variety show.  Each person performs something that they're good at.  They might sing, or play a musical instrument, or recite poetry, or do magic tricks.  You'd be good at that."

        Luke grimaced.  He was almost afraid to ask the next question.  "You don't expect Mara and me to...?"

        "Of course.  As the newest members of the crew, you have to."

        "We're not really good at getting up in front of an audience," Luke protested.  Mara would kill him.

        "Nonsense!  We're all friends here.  There's no need to be nervous," Neelix assured him.  "Everyone takes a turn.  No one gets out of this."

        Luke thought a moment.  "Did Seven of Nine do this?"

        "Well, no one except her," Neelix admitted.  "She adamantly refused, and I didn't think my having a broken neck would be good for morale."

        "You don't know Mara very well," Luke muttered under his breath.

        "What was that?"

        "Nothing.  When is this show?"

        "Day after tomorrow. At 20:00, in the main crew lounge."

        "Okay, I guess we'll think of something," Luke reluctantly agreed.

        "It'll be fun.  You'll see," Neelix grinned.

 

        "A talent show?!" Mara screeched.  "You have got to be kidding."

        "Hon, maybe it won't be so bad.  Neelix says everyone has fun."

        "So what are you going to do, farmboy?"

        "I don't have the faintest idea.  I was hoping you'd come up with something," Luke ventured.

        "Hmm..." Mara started to get a wicked gleam in her eye.  "Let's see.  We could do a dance routine together."

        Luke's eyes grew wide.  "No way.  I'll think of something on my own."  He eyed her appreciatively.  "You could dance, though.  You're a great dancer.  Pretend you're dancing for Jabba."

        "And if they don't like me I get thrown to the rancor?  Thanks a lot."

        "They'll love ya'."  He slipped an arm around her waist and pulled her close.  "Course not as much as I do."

        "Now we just have to decide what you're talented at," she teased, as Luke nuzzled her neck.  "I don't think we can do that on stage, sweetheart," she laughed.

 

        Two nights later, it was time for the big show.  Only a skeleton crew was left on duty, as everyone else packed into the crew lounge.  Commander Chakotay started off the evening by playing an Indian flute, followed by Ensign Nelson singing, and several other various acts.

        Luke and Mara sat near the front, next to Tom and B'Elanna.  Mara was wearing a loose-fitting outer garment tied with a sash.  B'Elanna leaned over and whispered, "What are you going to do for your act?"

        "Dance," came the simple reply.

        "What about Luke?" B'Elanna continued.

        "He wouldn't tell me.  Said it was a surprise.  Probably because I teased him about dancing with me."

        Luke was wearing his black Jedi tunic and trousers, which he seldom did anymore.

 

        At last it was the Skywalkers' turn.

        "Are you ready?" Neelix asked them.  He was acting as master of ceremonies.

        "Ladies first," Luke motioned to Mara.

        Mara rose and slipped off her outer robe.  She was wearing an exotic-looking dancing outfit.  Luke smiled as several admiring whistles ensued from the crowd, but Mara didn't seem to mind.

        She called up the appropriate music from the ship's computer, and launched into a captivating dance routine.  Everyone was entranced as she twirled, soared, and gracefully pirouetted across the stage.  As she ended with a delicate bow, the audience rose in applause.

        "Encore!" shouted Harry.

        Mara gave him a puzzled look.

        "He means 'do another dance'," B'Elanna laughed.  Luke was surprised and delighted when Mara readily complied.  This time she did a jazzier routine, which also brought a round of cheers.

        "Thank you, Mara, for a beautiful performance," Neelix said in gratitude.  "And now we have one last act to go.  Luke?"

        Luke rose to his feet.  "I should have gone first.  How can I top that?"

        He walked onto the stage and turned to face the audience.

        "Since I don't sing, dance, or play any musical instruments, I felt somewhat limited in what I could do," he began.  "Mara and I have told you many stories about our friends and family back home, so I thought you might enjoy my impressions of them."

        Mara was as intrigued as everyone else, wondering what Luke was going to do.

        Luke dropped his hands to his sides, relaxed, and let the Force flow through him.  His entire body shimmered, and suddenly, standing in his place, was ... Leia!

        "Greetings.  I am Leia Organa Solo, New Republic High Councilor, and sister to Luke Skywalker," Luke proclaimed in a passable imitation of Leia's voice.  Even Mara was impressed.  She'd seen him use Force disguises before, but nothing this detailed.

        "Now I would like you to meet my husband, Han Solo," Luke continued.  Leia's image blurred, and transformed into Han.  He proceeded through Jaina, Jacen, Anakin, Lando, Wedge, Admiral Ackbar, Ben Kenobi, Yoda, and Talon Karrde.

        He finally returned to his own self.  "So, are there any requests?"

        "Your droids," Harry shouted.

        Luke thought a moment.  "For them, I will use a power called the White Current, instead of the Force."  He concentrated, and next to him appeared R2D2 and C3PO.

        "I am See-Threepio, human-cyborg relations.  I am fluent in over six million forms of communication."  An indignant whistle issued from Artoo.  Threepio bopped Artoo on top of his dome.  "I'll get to you, you near-sighted scrap-heap."  Threepio turned and addressed the audience.  "This is my counterpart, Artoo-Detoo.  He is an astromech droid.  His main function is helping to pilot Master Luke's X-wing."

        Another squeal emitted from Artoo.

        "Yes, I know you are capable of more functions than just that.  If you would quit interrupting, perhaps I will mention some of them."

        By now the crew was roaring in laughter.  "That's exactly how they act!" Mara exclaimed.  Luke continued with the droids a few more minutes, then let them fade away.

        "Anyone else?" he asked.

        "I want to see a Hutt," B'Elanna requested.

        Luke smiled at the memory of that first parrises squares match, where he had kidded Mara about being as slow as a Hutt.

        Using the Current again, an image of a huge slug-like creature appeared.

        "Ho, ho, ho.  So, I see you have found someone new to dance for, Arica," he fixed his gaze on Mara.

        "That's a Hutt?" B'Elanna exclaimed.

        "That's the now-deceased Jabba the Hutt," Mara explained.

        "How about doing that evil Emperor?" Neelix called out.

        Luke glanced at Mara, and she nodded.

        Jabba disappeared, and this time Luke went back to using the Force, changing himself into an image of Palpatine.  Even though she knew it was Luke, Mara still felt a stab of fear course through her.  Luke, naturally, felt her anxiety as clearly as she did.

        "Now, now, my dear," he cackled as he slowly approached her.  "I forgive you for not carrying out my last command.  Some things work out for the best, don't you agree?"

        Mara just stared at Luke, finding it hard to believe he could mimic the Emperor so perfectly, though Palpatine never forgave anybody for anything.

        "Do someone else now," Mara managed to say.

        "I would like to see Darth Vader," Seven spoke up.

        Mara wondered if Luke would agree, but apparently Seven caught him in an agreeable mood.

        He shimmered once more, and there stood Darth Vader, breathing mask and all.  He approached Seven of Nine.

        "Ah, Seven of Nine, it is fortunate that your Borg never encountered a Dark Lord of the Sith.  You would have found us quite formidable opponents," he hissed.

        "That was Luke's father, who saved him from the Emperor?" Janeway whispered to Mara.

        "No, Captain," Luke interrupted, swirling around to face her.  His image then changed to a gentle-looking man, dressed in Jedi robes.

        "It was I, Anakin Skywalker."  He turned to Mara.  "Ah, my new daughter-in-law.  My son is indeed a lucky man."

        Mara had never seen Vader's true self.  She had always wondered how Luke turned out so different from Vader, now she understood.

        Luke then transformed back to himself.

        "I hope you don't have any more requests tonight.  I'm about changed out."

        The crew erupted into thunderous applause.

        "Bravo!" Neelix led the standing ovation.

        "Amazing."  Janeway shook his hand.  "How do you do that?"

        "It is all an illusion," Luke shrugged.  "I merely project an image that I want you to perceive."

        "Well, it was very impressive," she replied.

        "Thank you," he accepted her compliment modestly.  Mara came up to stand beside him.  "Just promise me we won't have to get up there again at the next show," he smiled.

        "Yes, I don't think I'll be in any shape to do that dance three months from now," Mara went on.

        *I think it's time we tell them,* Luke heard in his head.  He merely nodded an affirmation.

        "What do you mean?" the Captain was confused, as were the others around them.

        Mara slipped her arm around Luke's waist and grinned.  "We're going to have a baby," she announced happily.

        Suddenly everyone was hugging Mara and clapping Luke on the back.

        "Congratulations!"  "When is it due?"  "Boy or girl?"  "How long have you known?"

        Mara and Luke answered their questions as best they could, except for Neelix's last question -- "You'll stay on Voyager until the baby comes, won't you?"

        "We don't know what fate holds in store for us, Neelix,” Luke answered.  "I had a vision of Mara holding a baby, but I couldn't tell where she was at the time."

        "We wish you the best, wherever you are," Captain Janeway put in.

 

       

        Six months later, the Skywalkers were indeed still on Voyager.  Each time the ship entered a new system, Luke poured over star charts, but in vain.  They were no closer to finding a way home than when they first arrived. 

        Luke and Mara had long ago learned English, and now only spoke Basic when they were alone.  They both continued with the same jobs on the duty roster.  Mara even practiced some Force-healing techniques in sickbay.  In fact, she completed her Jedi

training under Luke's personal tutelage.

        They occasionally took the Jade's Fire out for a spin, sometimes taking their friends from Voyager along.  Mara eventually even let Tom pilot her beloved ship a couple times, much to his delight, though she did not let him try to land in the

docking bay.

        Shore leave on the next few planets they stopped at went without a hitch.  Mara and Luke both usually got to accompany the away teams.

 

        Yes, things were going well for the Skywalkers.  So, naturally, Luke had to find something to fret about.  One night, they had been in bed about an hour, when Mara awoke, sensing Luke's uneasy mood.  He was sitting up in bed, chin resting on his knees, staring out into the darkness.

        "Honey, what's wrong?" she said sleepily.

        "Sorry I woke you," he apologized. "I've been thinking about Leia.  I miss her, Mara.  Growing up, I always felt there was an empty spot inside me, a spot she filled as soon as I met her.  I've relied on her being there for me for half my life now," Luke sighed.  "I've been gone over ten months.  This has got to be killing her."

        "She's strong, Luke.  She'll make it.  And she has Han to help her."

        "Hmm..." Luke murmured, lost again in his own thoughts.

        After a few minutes of silence, Mara spoke up again.  "Now, tell me what else is bothering you.  It isn't just Leia, is it?"

        "No, I suppose not.  Oh, I guess I'm feeling kinda useless here.  Who knows what's going on back home, and here I am, acting like I'm on vacation.  It's like I'm hiding out, avoiding my responsibilities in our own galaxy."

        "I'd comfort you on all these worries, but I don't think I can sit up by myself," Mara mumbled.  Her increasing girth was making everything she did more difficult.

        Luke chuckled softly, and lay back down beside her.  She reached over and stroked his face.  "Luke, you know you're not responsible for everything that happens, back home or here.  Jedi Knights, even Jedi Masters, cannot spend every day of their lives trying to make things perfect for everyone else."

        She could hear Luke exhale wearily, his breath warm on her cheek.  She continued, "What were Ben Kenobi and Yoda doing for the twenty years before you met them?  Do you think they were just hiding out, trying to avoid their responsibilities?"

        "No," Luke responded. "Of course not.  But I wish I had gotten the chance to ask them about things like this.  I still feel like I have to make up the rules as I go along.  And now I'm not even there anymore to give the other Jedi any direction."

        "Luke, your students are more than capable.  It'll be good for them to be on their own, without you holding their hands.  They run the academy themselves now, anyway."

        "I know, I know," Luke conceded.

        "And you are doing important work here," Mara continued.  "You're creating the next generation of Jedi Knights.  Admittedly, Leia beat you to it, but our children will have important roles in the future, and they'll need your guidance."

        "They?  So you want more children?"

        "Let's see how it goes with this one.  By the way, don't you think it's about time we give 'this one' a name?" Mara broached the subject that had been on her mind lately.

        "Yes it is.  Did you have any ideas?"

        "I figured you might want to name him after someone, like Ben, or Han," Mara went on.

        "Hmm, it crossed my mind."  Luke shifted so she could lay her head on his shoulder.  "But our son will be his own unique person, and I think he should have his own unique name."

        "So did you have a name in mind?"

        "I did read a name in a story once that I liked."  Luke kissed the top of her head.  "What do you think of the name Dane?"

        "Dane Skywalker.  I like it.  It has a nice ring to it.  Sounds very noble."

        Luke stroked her hair.  "Didn't you have any names to suggest?"

        "Not really.  Tell you what, you name all our sons, and I'll name all our daughters."

        "This is sounding serious," Luke laughed.  "Okay, deal."  Luke reached down and rubbed Mara's swollen abdomen.  "I can hardly wait to hold you, Dane."

        "You and me both," Mara joined in.  They were both silent for awhile.    

        "You know, Luke, this is my favorite time of the day.  I love being alone with you, talking, sharing.  I can't imagine my life without you."

        Luke cupped her cheek and kissed her tenderly.  "That's good, cause you're not getting rid of me.  I love you so much, Mara."

        "And I love you, Luke," she replied.  As their kisses became more passionate, Mara began caressing him and sliding his shorts off.

        "Are you sure it's all right to still do this," he whispered, wanting to make love to her, but concerned for her and the baby.

        "The Doctor said it's all right for as long as we want, as long as I'm comfortable," she assured him.

        His only reply was to carefully undress her, then pull her atop him.  Their lovemaking was slow and gentle, and afterward they fell asleep in each other's arms.

 

        They both awoke about the same time, and Luke gave Mara a good-morning hug.

        "Care to take a shower with me?" he asked hopefully.

        "No, I don't think so," Mara turned him down.

        "Why not?  You used to like to."

        "But now I'm fat and ugly.  I don't want you looking at me."

        Luke pulled her out of their bed.  "You're pregnant and you're beautiful.  And I love looking at you, all of you."

        Despite her protests, he ushered her into the shower.  "How are you going to twist around to wash everywhere, anyhow?" he went on.  "You need me."

        Mara relented, and let his soothing hands wash all her concerns away.  *Do I really deserve to be this happy?* she thought to herself.

        *Of course you do,* came the reply.

 

        They dressed casually, then settled themselves down for their morning meditation.  Luke had been delighted several months ago when Mara unexpectantly decided she would like to join him in his meditations.  She wasn't sure if it was the pregnancy, her Jedi training, or if he was just rubbing off on her, but she found

herself enjoying their shared contemplations.

        Mara lowered herself to the floor, cross-legged, and Luke slipped down right behind her, wrapping his arms around her.  They closed their eyes, and immersed themselves in their silent thoughts.

        Only about a half hour had passed when the door announcer chimed.  Luke brought himself out of his trance, and reaching out, felt Tom's and B'Elanna's presences.  He opened the door from where he sat.

        *Come in* the two guests heard in their minds.

        "That's eerie when you do that," Tom complained good-naturedly, as they entered.  Luke started to get up, but Tom stopped him.  "Stay sitting, you look pretty comfortable."  He and B'Elanna sat down on the floor across from them.

        "What are you doing on the floor, anyway?" B'Elanna asked.

        "Meditating," Mara answered easily.

        "I thought you said that was boring," B'Elanna countered.

        "I've changed my mind about a lot of things since we've been on Voyager," Mara admitted.  "And this guy can be pretty convincing," she added, squeezing Luke's arm.

        "Maybe we should go then," Tom put in.  "We didn't mean to disturb you."

        "No, please stay.  We haven't visited lately," Luke said.  "Would you like some guava juice?"

        "We don't want to be a bother," B'Elanna said.

        "No trouble at all," Luke explained.

        They all sat and watched as Luke used the Force to remove the juice pitcher from the cooling unit, get out four glasses, fill them, put the pitcher back, and levitate all four glasses over to them.

        "I don't suppose you could teach a non-Force-sensitive guy to do that," Tom kidded.

        "No, but he could teach you to meditate," Mara grinned.

        "Uh, some other time," Tom replied, laughing.

        B'Elanna noticed Mara rubbing her stomach.  "So you got any names picked out?  You only have about a month and a half to go."

        "As a matter of fact, we decided on one last night," Mara answered.  "We're going to call him Dane."

        "Dane," B'Elanna repeated.  "I like that."

        "Thanks.  Luke thought of it," Mara went on.

        "Yeah, she's going to let me name all our boys," Luke laughed.  "But she does the girls."

        "Whoa! Is this the beginning of a Skywalker dynasty?" Tom joked.

        "How else are we going to populate this galaxy with Jedi!"  Mara exclaimed.

        After the laughter died down, Tom commented,  "You know, we're coming up on a planet called Hidalia.  It's supposed to be a very peaceful place.  You should see if the Captain will let you go, Luke."

        "Wait a minute, I want to go too," Mara interrupted.

        "Hon, I don't know if you should," Luke tried to dissuade her.

        "I'm just pregnant, not an invalid," Mara protested.  "I need some fresh air.  I could go stir crazy on this ship."  She suddenly looked at Tom and B'Elanna.  "No offense."

        "It's okay.  We know how you feel," B'Elanna reassured her.

        "Well, we'll ask the Captain about it," Luke relented.  "Now, how about we all go get some breakfast?"

        "What, you're not going to float it down to us from the mess hall?" Tom wisecracked.

        They all laughed as they got up, though Mara needed a little help from her spouse.  *Not an invalid, huh?* she heard.  No wonder she 'accidentally' elbowed him as she rose.

 

        Voyager reached Hidalia in two days.  To Luke's surprise, the Captain did allow Mara to accompany the first away team, along with him.  Captain Janeway even went herself, leaving Chakotay in charge of the ship.

        They were briefed that the Hidalians were a gentle, peaceful race, though extremely superstitious.  They worshipped a variety of mythological-type gods.

        Before departing for the planet, Captain Janeway pulled Luke to the side.

        "Well?" she asked him.  Luke didn't need to guess what she was talking about.  It had become standard procedure for Luke to 'feel out' the inhabitants of every planet they visited and ship they encountered.  Luke had misgivings about doing this, despite Captain Janeway's noting that a Captain Picard of the Enterprise used a Betazoid in the same role.

        It was Mara that finally convinced him.  "You know you'll be sensing if there's danger anyway, so what's wrong with sharing this with the Captain?" she argued.  "If you did sense something was wrong, you'd tell her, wouldn't you?"

        "Of course."

        "Well, then.  And aren't you the one who always says we should do everything we can for this crew, since they're giving us a place to live?"

        Luke winked at her gratefully.  "What would I do without you?"

 

        The crew beamed down in front of the main administration building, having received permission from the government ahead of time.  Mara and Neelix began observing all the unusual sights of the strange new city, while Janeway, Tom, and Luke entered the front vestibule.  The chief magistrate strode forward to receive them.

        "Greetings, I am Chancellor Elodu."  The portly official bowed to them.  "Welcome to Hidal, capital city of Hidalia."

        Captain Janeway thanked him, introduced herself and her companions,and then they rejoined the others.  Hidal was a beautiful city, with colorful flowers and tree-lined streets.  The crew strolled through an open-air market, filled with both useful and extravagant wares.  Captain Janeway and Mara were drawn to a vendor displaying unique-looking quilts.The elderly saleswoman proudly showed them a variety of quilts, all handmade by her.

        "Oh, my dear, I have just the thing for you," croned the old woman, noticing Mara's condition.  She reached into a trunk behind her and pulled out a very small, beautifully decorated quilt.

        Mara was momentarily puzzled.  "It's so little.  What do you do with a covering that little?"

        The Captain laughed.  "Mara, it's a baby quilt.  Babies are little."

        Mara's face reddened in embarrassment.  "I guess I've got a lot to learn."

        The old woman tried to push for a sale.

        "Wouldn't you like to have this beautiful little quilt for your baby?  It is only twenty denars."

        "It's lovely, but I have no money, and besides, my husband..." Mara gazed down the street and saw Luke, Tom, and Neelix inspecting some produce.  "Well, anyway, I have no money," she repeated, handing the quilt back reluctantly.

        

        "How do you do business on these planets?" she asked the Captain as they walked away.

        "Usually we try to barter.  For instance, Mr. Neelix is attempting to trade teranium for fruits and vegetables."

        "Well, I have nothing to barter with, and I doubt a baby quilt would be considered essential to Voyager, anyway," Mara reconciled.  They continued on down the street toward the others.  Neelix had a wide grin on his face.

        "Captain, they've accepted our terms.  Ensign Smith is bringing down our excess teranium, and then will take the produce up to the ship.  Tomorrow, for dessert, we'll have fresh monari fruit."

        "Excellent, Neelix.  I'm shall look forward to it."

       

        The group continued through the city.  Some time later, they stopped to watch a band of street artists.  As they stood there, Luke suddenly started looking around, a worried expression on his face.

        "Something's happened.  Someone's hurt," he said softly to the others.

        Just then, a man ran through the crowd shouting.  "There's been an accident!  We need help!  This way!" he indicated, running back down a side street.

        Mara turned toward Luke, but he was already close on the man's heels.  The rest of Voyager's crew followed, along with a crowd from the marketplace.

        As Luke reached the scene, the man related what had happened.  "There's an abandoned well here.  It was covered over, but the boards must have rotted.  The walls are crumbling in.  Some children were playing here, and a little girl fell in."

        Luke could sense the child at the bottom of the well.

        "We can't get her to answer.  We fear she may be dead," a nearby woman cried.

        "No, she's alive, but in pain," Luke said, as he neared the top of the well.

        Someone was calling for a rope.  "We are afraid the sides will cave in at any moment," another man said frantically.

        "Please, stay back," Luke said quietly.  "I will bring her out."

        Something in Luke's eyes led the others to believe him.  Luke walked to the edge of the well, called upon the Force, and stepped off into the shaft.  He floated down in mid-air, careful not to touch the precarious sides.

        By now, the crew had reached the scene.  "We should help him," Tom said as he started forward, but Mara stopped him.

        "No, it is better to stay back.  He doesn't need help," she assured him.

        Luke reached the little girl.  She was sobbing softly.  Her leg appeared to be broken and she had many bruises.

        "Don't be afraid," Luke said gently.  "I'm going to bring you out of here."

        He lifted the small child in his arms, and levitated both of them to the surface.  The crowd gasped as Luke floated up out of the hole.  He laid the girl on a patch of grass some distance from the well.

        "Who is that?" one of the bystanders whispered to another.

        "He came from the ship in the sky," another answered.

        Mara pushed forward and knelt next to him.  Luke had his hands on the girl's leg, beginning to heal it.  "Help me draw away her pain," he said to Mara.

        Mara grasped the girl's hand, sending waves of comfort to replace her suffering.  The child stopped crying and looked up at them in wonder.

        "He is a sorcerer," someone in the crowd said.

        A distraught-looking man hurried through the crowd.  "Manita," he cried, as he rushed toward the little girl.

        "She will be fine now," Luke soothed, as the man hugged the child.

        "You have saved my daughter," the man said gratefully.

        The crowd began to close in on Luke and Mara.  "I have a bad feeling about this," he murmured.

        "You are the Cumo," a woman in the crowd shouted.

        "You are the one promised to us," a man called.

        "You must come with us, holy one," another voice implored.

        Luke grabbed Mara's hand and pushed their way through to the rest of Voyager's crew.  People jostled them, both trying to get close enough to touch them and to keep them from leaving.

        When they reached the others, Luke turned to Mara.  "Sweetheart, I want you to go back to the ship.  It may not be safe here."

        "I'm not leaving you," Mara said obstinately.  "I can take care of myself."

        Luke's eyes narrowed as he held on to her upper arms.  "Mara, do not argue with me," he commanded sternly.  "You have the baby to think about now.  What if someone starts shooting?  Even a stun blast could hurt our son.  I want you on the ship."

        Mara glared furiously at him.  Luke did have a stubborn streak, and he would worry endlessly about her if she stayed.  Instead, she tried a different tactic.  "Why can't you come back with me?"

        "I want to make sure that well is filled in first," he explained, hoping she was coming around to his point of view.

        "Neelix, perhaps you and Mara could both go back now.  You're finished with your trading," Janeway interjected.

        "Of course, Captain," Neelix agreed.

        Mara looked at Luke, finally giving in.  "All right, but you be careful."

        "Hey, it's me," he grinned, in his best Han imitation.

        "That's what I'm afraid of."

        He kissed her lightly and stepped back.

        "Voyager, this is Neelix," Neelix spoke into his comm badge.  "Mara and I are ready to beam up."

        "Acknowledged," came the reply, as Mara and Neelix disappeared.

 

        Luke looked at the Captain and Tom, shaking his head.  "I would like to make sure about that well, Captain.  If it all right with you...?"

        "Yes, go ahead.  Tom and I have a bit more trading to do, and we need to determine if it's safe for any more of the crew to come down," the Captain went on.  "We'll meet you in front of the administration building in one hour."

        "Very well, Captain," Luke nodded, as he headed back into the crowd.  He managed to make his way back to the site of the accident, despite the fawning Hidalians.  Luke confirmed that the well was still empty, then using the Force, caused the walls to collapse in on themselves.  The villagers watched him work in awe. 

When he finished, he noticed Chancellor Elodu was among the spectators.

        "It is true!" the chancellor exclaimed to him.  "You are the Cumo."

        "I don't know what you're talking about," Luke answered.  "I'm Luke Skywalker, from Voyager.  You met me earlier this morning.  Who is this Cumo?"

        "Long ago our prophets foretold of a great wizard who would come to help our people.  They said he would come down from the sky, and perform miraculous feats.  This wizard is called the Cumo.  But of course you know that, for you are he.  And you must stay here and protect our people."

        "I'm sorry to disappoint you," Luke apologized, "but I'm not the wizard you're waiting for.  Our ship just happened to stop at this planet.  I'm not staying here."

        "But you have magic powers," the chancellor insisted.  "You floated in the air, and healed the child.  We have never seen anyone do such feats.  You must be the one promised us." 

        "I do have certain powers," Luke admitted.  "But that doesn't mean I'm this Cumo you're expecting."

        More people in the crowd had closed in on them by then.

        "You must stay here," a man spoke up.

        "We cannot allow you to leave," another said.

        "Look," Luke protested, "I don't want to hurt anyone, but I am not staying here.  I have to go back to my ship."

        "You must not leave," a voice called again.

        "You cannot abandon us," another shouted.

        The crowd was blocking his path.  He couldn't ignite his lightsaber without hurting someone, and there were too many in the crowd to use mind control.

        "Please just let me go," he repeated.  "You're making a mistake."

        Luke started to reach for his comm badge, thinking it was time to request a beam out, when his danger sense caused him to whirl around.  He was hit square in the chest with a stun blast.  His crumpled form was carried off by the crowd.

 

        Meanwhile, on Voyager, Mara was in sickbay with the Doctor. She was telling him about the child in the well.

        "They are still arguing with him now," she related.  "I can feel him getting frustrated and ... oh no!"  Mara suddenly clutched the edge of a table.

        "What's wrong?" the Doctor asked, concerned.

        "I can't feel his mind," she cried.  "He must be unconscious.  We have to do something."

        "WE are not doing anything.  I'll have Commander Chakotay contact the Captain.  She and Mr. Paris can investigate."

        "I'm going to the bridge," Mara called, as she hurried out the door.  By the time she reached the bridge, Chakotay was communicating with Captain Janeway.

        "Captain, is Luke with you?" Chakotay asked her.

        "No, he went back to where the accident happened."

        "Mara senses that he may have been knocked unconscious.  Do you want me to send a team down?"

        "No, let Tom and me investigate first.  We don't want to start an incident if we can help it.  Can she tell if Luke's been injured?"

        Mara answered her this time.  "I don't believe he has, Captain.  He's alive, but just stunned.  And stun blast effects usually don't last very long with him."

        "We'll find him, don't worry, Mara.  Let us know if he wakes up and you can communicate with him.  Janeway out," the Captain ended the transmission.

        "You see, Mara," Neelix spoke up, "it was a good thing you came back when you did.  A stun blast could've hurt your baby."

        "I know, I know," she conceded.

 

        When Luke awoke a short time later, he found himself in a small windowless cell.  Standing outside the door were two guards.

        *They have a strange way of treating the great Cumo,* Luke thought to himself.

        *Luke, you're awake!* Luke heard in his mind.

        *Keeping tabs on me?* he sent back.

        *Somebody has to.  The Captain and Tom are looking for you.  Can you tell where you're at?* Mara asked.

        *In some kind of cell.  But I shouldn't have any trouble getting out,* Luke assured her.  *They didn't even take my lightsaber, though my comm badge is missing.  Find out where the Captain is and let me know.*

        As Mara was doing as Luke asked, he walked up to the cell door.  The guards, suddenly overcome by extreme drowsiness, laid down their weapons and fell into a deep slumber.  Luke easily unlocked the door and stole out into the corridor.

        *Luke,* Mara's voice called to him.  *The Captain and Tom are in the administration building, getting ready to see Chancellor Elodu.*

        *All right, I'll find them.  Maybe they'll get some answers.*

        *Take care.*

        *I will, don't worry.*

 

        It didn't take Luke long to discover he was in the basement of the administration building.  He cloaked himself with the Force, and made his way to the chancellor's office.  As he entered, the Captain was addressing the administrator.

        "Chancellor, I demand the return of my crew member.  We came here in good faith.  You cannot just kidnap Mr. Skywalker."

        "Captain, you don't understand.  He is the Cumo.  The prophets foretold his coming.  Do you deny his great powers?"

        "No, but he is a Jedi.  He and his wife are from another galaxy," the Captain tried to explain.  "You must release him now."

        "Not necessary, Captain," came a voice from the rear of the room.  Everyone turned in astonishment, as Luke appeared out of the shadows.  "As you can see, I am free."

        An aide standing by Chancellor Elodu pulled out his weapon, but it was instantly yanked from his grasp.  Luke didn't intend to be stunned again.

        A puzzled look had come over Chancellor Elodu's face.  "You said 'he and his wife'?  The red-haired woman is his wife?" he looked toward the Captain.

        "Yes, she is my wife," Luke confirmed, wondering where this was leading.

        "But ... but she is with child!" the chancellor exclaimed.  "That is not possible!"

        Luke, Tom, and Captain Janeway exchanged confused glances.

        "What do you mean?" Luke questioned.

        "The Cumo cannot father children.  It is impossible.  He is a god."  The chancellor was visibly shaken.

        "But I am human," Luke said, as he moved closer, "not a god."  Luke ignited his lightsaber and grazed the palm of his left hand with the tip.  "See, I bleed just like anyone else.  I eat, sleep, and can most definitely father a child."

        "May the prophets forgive us," the chancellor wailed as he slumped to the floor.  "We have made a terrible mistake."

        Luke knelt beside the distraught man.  "Please, Chancellor, it was an honest mistake."  He gently helped the chancellor to his feet.

        "But your powers, how can this be?"

        "Simple magic tricks," Luke replied.  "I did not mean to give anyone the wrong impression."

        "How can you ever forgive us?"

        "There is nothing to forgive.  We only wish to return to our ship in peace," Luke assured him.  He turned to the Captain and Tom.  "Perhaps this would be a good time for an exit." 

        They walked back out to the street.  The chancellor's aides had already begun spreading the word that the mysterious stranger was not the great Cumo.

        Tom handed Luke his comm badge.  "We did manage to get that back."

        As they prepared to beam back to the ship, an old woman rushed forward.  Captain Janeway remembered seeing her earlier.  The woman thrust a wrapped bundle into Luke's hands.

        "You saved my granddaughter this morning.  I will never be able to repay you, but I wanted you and your wife to have this."

        Luke looked at the package.  "What is...?" but the old woman had disappeared back into the crowd.

        "Voyager, three to beam up," the Captain ordered.

 

        As they materialized in the transporter room, Mara rushed forward and hugged Luke.

        "I'm so glad you're back," she cried.  "Who would have thought your reproductive ability would get you out of a scrape like this?" she continued, laughing.  "And don't you usually cringe when Han calls the Force 'a bunch of magic tricks'?"

        Tom and Captain Janeway looked at the two Skywalkers.

        "Isn't that rather unnerving, always knowing what happens to the other one of you?" Tom asked skeptically.

        "No, we find it rather comforting," Luke replied, with Mara nodding in agreement.

        "How else can I keep track of him?" Mara kidded.  "You don't realize how easily this guy can get himself into trouble."

        "Well, all I can say is, I'm glad B'Elanna can't read all my thoughts," Tom rejoined.

        "What's that you've got?" Mara asked Luke, noticing the package he was holding.

        "I don't know.  A woman from the village gave it to me just before we left."

        "So open it up."

        Luke carefully unwrapped the parcel.  He had a puzzled look on his face as he held out the colorful cloth.

        "It's the baby quilt!" Mara exclaimed.

        "Apparently the shopkeeper that had this quilt was the grandmother of the girl Luke rescued," the Captain explained.

        Mara held out the quilt admiringly.  "A present for our baby.  How wonderful!"

 

 

Part IV

 

1 1/2 Months Later

 

        Mara stood looking at her profile in the full-length mirror.  Her tunic was stretched to its limit.  So engrossed was she that she didn't notice Luke standing in the doorway holding her holovid recorder.  She had felt his presence, of course, but didn't look up at him until he spoke.

        "You are a beautiful mommy-to-be," he murmured.

        "You're just saying ...," Mara finally glanced up.  "What are you doing?!  Give my that! she screeched, as he held the recorder out of her reach.  She tried tugging on it with the Force, but he clutched it firmly.

        "No, I want to document everything," Luke protested.  "You didn't mind when Harry recorded our wedding, or that most-forgettable talent show."

        "That was different.  I didn't look like a Gamorrean sow then."

        "You look great.  And pretty soon you'll be all thin again, and then we'll have a beautiful baby to take pictures of."

        Mara sighed and rubbed her swollen abdomen.

        "I can't wait.  I hope he comes soon."  Mara looked at her smiling husband.  "Okay, you can film a few shots," she relented, "but only if you're in them too."

        "Sure," Luke agreed readily, before she changed her mind.  He held the recorder in mid-air via the Force, then stood behind Mara and triggered the RECORD button.  They playfully waved to the recorder, laughed, and kissed.  Luke even tried to encircle her waist with his arms, pretending he couldn't reach that far.

        Mara finally switched off the recorder.  "All right, that's enough.  You owe me for this, buddy."

        "Fair enough.  Name your price."

        Mara gazed at him coolly.  "You change all the dirty diapers for the first month after he's born."

        Luke's eyes widened.  "A month!  Wait a minute.  Can we negotiate?"

        "Nope.  Too late.  Can I help it there are no nanny droids here?"  Mara crossed her arms.  "And don't think after the first month you're off the hook.  Then it becomes a 50-50 job.  Understand?"

        Luke grimaced.  "Yes, dear."

        "Good, because I only pretended to turn off the recorder.  I have this all on record."

        Luke only shook his head and pulled down the recorder, making sure it was now off.

        "And you are NOT bringing that recorder in sickbay when I'm giving birth," Mara emphasized.

        "Are you kidding?  I'd be changing every diaper of every baby we ever have."

        "Every baby?  Aren't you getting ahead of yourself?  We don't even have this one yet."

        "But we will soon."  Luke kissed her hand, then reached out and rubbed her stomach lovingly.  "Very soon."  He pulled her close, and kissed her passionately.  "I love you, Mara," he whispered.

        "And I love you, Luke," she responded, clinging to him tightly.

 

Later that night:

 

        Luke awoke with a start.  He could feel Mara's pain, but she was no longer in bed next to him.  He found her in the refresher, leaning heavily against the wall.

        "You had a contraction?" he exclaimed, holding on to her.

        Mara nodded.  "And my water broke."

        Luke then noticed the wet spot on the floor.  He called up some Jedi calm for both of them.

        "Okay, well, the doctor said it would be nine or ten minutes between the first few contractions.  We should have plenty of time to get you to sickbay," he rationalized.

        "I'm in my nightgown, and it's all wet!" Mara wailed.  "You have to help me get dry clothes on."

        "Sure, sure."  He pulled over a small chair for her, then dutifully helped her clean up and put on different clothes.  He was just pulling on some pants and a tunic for himself when the next contraction hit.

        "Use the Jedi techniques we practiced, hon," he counseled.  "I'll pull as much of the pain away as I can, but you'll have to

        "Easy for you to say," she huffed.  "Let's get to sickbay."

        Luke helped her to her feet, and they made their way out into the corridor.  "I could have them just beam you into sickbay," Luke commented, as they entered the turbolift.

        "Don't be silly.  I can walk that far," Mara growled, clinging to his arm.  "Maybe we can get this over with before anyone gets up," she said hopefully.  "The last thing I want is an audience in sickbay."

        Luke withheld comment, remembering that the Doctor had told them labor could take hours.  Mara had insisted she wanted to give birth the old-fashioned way.  She found the notion of beaming the baby out abhorrent, unless it was an absolute last resort.  She was confident that between the two of them, they could keep the pain tolerable and the baby free from distress.

        They finally reached sickbay, thankfully before the next contraction.

 

        "Well, well, what have we here?" the Doctor greeted them.      

        "What does it look like?"  Mara wasn't in the mood for jokes.  Luke helped her onto a special birthing bed the Doctor had set up weeks ago.

        The Doctor noticed, when the next contraction came, that Luke seemed to feel the pain the same as Mara, though both of them were relatively calm.  Luke explained to him how he was helping Mara using Jedi skills.

        "Hmm," the Doctor replied.  "Pregnant women all over the galaxy will be envious."

 

        Several hours passed, and even with Luke's assistance, Mara was tiring.  A loud groan escaped her as a particularly hard contraction hit her.  As she gripped Luke's hand in a vise-like hold, he began making mental notes:  'If we ever go through this again, don't let her hold my hand, at least not my left one.  Fingers could be broken, namely mine.'

      Finally the Doctor announced, "You are now at ten centimeters, and may begin pushing."

        Mara gave him one of her trade-mark glares, and pushed hard.  Luke gave her additional endurance, and both of them sent feelings of comfort to their infant son.

        By now, of course, most of the ship was aware of the impending arrival.  Captain Janeway and B'Elanna entered sickbay, while the new parents' male friends wisely remained waiting in the corridor.

        "How are we doing?" ventured the Captain.

        "Just dandy," Mara growled through gritted teeth, as she gave another push.  B'Elanna hung back, wondering if she would ever be in this same position someday.

        "Actually, Captain," the Doctor put in, as he checked the baby's progress, "they're doing remarkably well.  If they could bottle these Jedi pain reduction techniques, they'd make a fortune.  Ah, I can see the head.  Looks like a blonde."

        This news gave Mara added incentive, and she pushed again.  "I don't suppose," she grimaced, "you could just pull him out with the Force."  She shot a momentary glance at Luke.

        Luke started to hesitate, and then thought, well, why not?  He concentrated on his son's small body, and very gently, glided him out to meet the world.

        "Very impressive," the Doctor complimented him.  "You may have a new career as an obstetrician."  The Doctor clamped and cut the cord, then laid the baby in a nearby bassinet, where the Captain began tending to him.  "Perhaps you would like to help Mara expel the afterbirth also."

        Luke did so easily, then proudly took his son in his arms for the first time.

        "Let me hold him," Mara entreated, straining to get a better look at the baby.  Luke carefully laid the blanket-wrapped bundle in the crook of her arm.  This was the sweetest sight Mara had ever seen.  He was indeed blonde, and he barely let out a whimper.

        "Hello, Dane," Mara whispered, as she stroked his soft cheek.  Dane kept his eyes tightly shut.  "I'll bet you have blue eyes, too," she cooed, "just like your father."

        "I think he looks more like you, though, Mara," B'Elanna spoke up.

        "Really?  I can't tell yet," Mara replied.

        Captain Janeway took a turn holding the baby, but B'Elanna declined.

        "I believe there's a reception committee waiting outside, if you want to give them a quick peek, Luke," the Captain put forth.

        "And after that, this baby is ready for breakfast," the Doctor spoke up, "and then mother and son will need a nap."

        "All right, I'll be right back," Luke said as he carried Dane out to the waiting crowd, followed by B'Elanna and Captain Janeway.  He returned a few minutes later, as Mara was making herself comfortable.

        "They're pretty divided on who he looks like," Luke laughed.

        Mara took Dane in her arms and prepared to breastfeed him.  The Doctor had given her suggestions ahead of time, and she remembered watching some of the concubines at the Imperial Palace doing it.

        It didn't take her son long to start nursing greedily.  "Right now," Mara observed, "I'd say he looks a lot like you."

        Luke frowned.  He was glad the Doctor had gone into his office to give them some privacy.

        "I hope you keep that opinion to yourself," he said dryly.

        Mara laughed, and stroked Dane gently.  "Can you believe this, farmboy?  You and I, with our own baby?"

        Luke pulled a chair up next to her bed, and propped his elbow next to her, resting his head on his hand.  He reached out with his other hand and let Dane curl his tiny hand around his finger.

        "A year ago, I would never have believed this was possible.  But ever since our first night together, I couldn't imagine my life without you.  And having a child together, just seems natural.  I've never been so happy, Mara."

        She reached over and ran her fingers through his hair. 

"Neither have I, Luke, neither have I."

        Luke sighed.  "I only wish we could share our joy with Leia and Han and our friends back home.  The kids have always wanted a cousin."

        "We'll get back someday, Luke, I know we will," Mara said encouragingly.  "I can't miss the look on Karrde's face when he finds out."

        Luke didn't answer, lost in his own thoughts.  It had been just over a year.  What could possibly change that would provide them a way home?

 

        Mara finished feeding Dane, and Luke gently laid him in the bassinet, after dutifully changing his diaper.  Mother and son then settled in for a much-needed nap.  Luke was tired himself, but didn't think he could sleep.  Instead, he wandered up to the mess hall, where he was promptly inundated by another round of congratulations.

        "So," Neelix began, when they were finally alone in the galley, "does it feel any different, being a father now?"

        Luke thought a moment.  "Yes, actually, it does.  Before, Mara and I were just a couple, and she has always been able to fend for herself.  She's probably better at hand-to-hand combat than I am.  Now, all of a sudden, we're a complete family, that I

feel responsible for.  And I'm not doing too well at that, seeing as how I can't even find us a way home."

        Neelix observed the dejected look on Luke's face.  "You want to leave Voyager?  You've both made so many friends here."

        "I know, and we'd miss you a lot," Luke tried to explain, "but I also miss my family and friends at home.  Mara didn't have as many close friends as I did, but she had some, plus a profitable business she had built up.  And I had my students at the academy.  They probably all think we're dead."

        "Just remember, Luke, my friend, that you have a beautiful wife who loves you, a handsome new son, and a shipful of comrades who are grateful you have joined us.  Things could be worse," Neelix chided him.

        "You're right," Luke admitted.  "Mara always tells me I'm too morose.  I should be celebrating," Luke smiled finally.  "I think I'll take Mara some lunch.  She should be awake soon."

        "Good idea.  And send her my best wishes."

 

        That evening, the Doctor allowed Mara and Dane to go home to their quarters.  Mara was glad to get out of sickbay.  Working there was one thing, being a patient was quite another.  The prospect of her and Luke caring for a newborn was a bit frightening for the former Emperor's Hand, though.  She was much more at ease with a blaster in her hand than a wriggling baby in a tabletop bathtub.

        Mara was now on an official leave of absence from the duty roster, and Luke only stayed in the mess hall during the busy meal times.  Mara did allow Luke to holorecord non-embarrassing scenes of her and the baby, and she didn't pass up the chance of recording him changing Dane's diaper.

 

        "Taking care of one little baby is more exhausting than anything I've ever done," Mara complained one evening, as she plopped on the couch after putting Dane to bed.

        "We've had plenty of offers from the rest of the crew to help," Luke reminded her.  "We could take them up on that."

        "I suppose.  I'll still have to feed him, and you're not done with your month of diaper duty," Mara took pleasure in seeing him grimace, "but others could watch him for awhile in between.  Maybe we could go to the gym, or the holodeck."

        "Sure, I don't see why not," Luke agreed.  "We are lucky to have so many good friends here.  They've all been so helpful to us, I wish there was something we could do for them."

        "Hmm.  I feel sorry for them, that it's going to take them so long to get home."

        "I know, I feel selfish only thinking about how to get us home.  They're in just as bad a predicament as we are," Luke continued.  Suddenly he edged closer and grasped Mara's hand.  "Mara, let's take a break from looking for our galaxy, and put our efforts into finding a way for Voyager to get home sooner.  Surely two Jedi can contribute more than just cooking lunch."

        Mara smiled broadly,  "You're right.  We can look for a way home just as easily from the Alpha Quadrant as from the Delta Quadrant.  And I'd like to see this Earth of theirs.  We've been cooped up on this ship for more than a year.  I know you're got to have cabin fever worse than I have."

        "You've got that right," Luke chuckled.  "With what you've learned in Engineering here, and what we already know about hyper-drives, we should be able to come up with something."

 

        The crew, naturally, was skeptical of Luke and Mara's optimistic views.  They'd been exploring every possibility ever since arriving in the Delta Quadrant.  Nevertheless, they promised full cooperation in any undertaking.  Even Tuvoc recalled how Kes had propelled them ten years' worth of distance when she transformed after leaving the ship.  Luke, of course, was enthralled with her story, and dismayed that he hadn't been able to meet her.  He wondered if her powers were a manifestation of the Force, altered by the Ocampa's rapid aging process.

        Luke and Mara weren't sure whether to approach this challenging project from a technical aspect, a Force-driven direction, or a combination of the two.  Luke remembered how his early students had banded together to repel a fleet of Star Destroyers from Yavin.  But they had been stationary on the moon, not on the ships being repelled.  The Skywalkers certainly wanted to go along for the ride.

 

        As usual, Luke decided meditation should be his first step.  Early one morning, he settled himself in his familiar cross-legged position.  He concentrated on an image of Voyager, and entered a deep Jedi trance.  He saw the ship near a planet, then suddenly it flew away at an incredible speed.

        Luke awoke, and hurried over to Mara, who was playing with

Dane.

        "Mara, I think I may have something," he gushed excitedly.  "I had a vision of the ship, being repelled from a planet."

        "So where do we find a planet that repels ships?" she teased him, then turned to Dane.  "Your daddy is so cute when he gets an idea," she cooed.  "His eyes get all bright and shiny, and his voice gets high-pitched, and ..."

        Luke rolled his eyes.  "Mara," he whined, "if you don't want to hear this, just say so."

        "Oh, go ahead, Wormie," she joked.

        "Don't call me that," he complained.

        Luke tromped into the kitchen area, sulking.

        Mara picked up Dane and followed him.  "Oh, Dane, I think we've insulted your daddy."  She gave Luke her best penitent smile.  "So what's your idea, hon?"

        Luke smiled brightly at Dane as he took him from Mara.  "Well, you know how my students repelled Pellaeon's fleet, by pushing it away from Yavin."

        Mara nodded, but her expression looked concerned.  "I also remember Dorsk 81 was killed."  She eyed him worriedly.  "What are you thinking of doing?"

        "They were students, and they were repelling an entire fleet of seventeen Star Destroyers," he tried to reassure her.

        "As I recall, several of them had graduated by then, and there were about thirty of them."  She glared harder.  "You're not thinking of trying to repel this ship off a planet by yourself?"

        "No, I was thinking of having you help.  And we won't try, we'll do," he stated matter-of-factly.  "Or, we'll do not," he added.

        "Luke, this ship is too big to do something like that."

        "Listen, do you, to anything I say?  Size matters not," Luke mimicked Yoda, making faces at Dane as he did so.  "That's just what I said when my X-wing sank into the swamp," he told her.

        "But, master," Mara drawled out, "lifting little X-wings up is one thing, but this, this is totally different."

        "No, no different," he continued the parody.  "Only different in your mind."

        "Listen," Mara was serious now, "you may be a Jedi Master, but you're not invincible.  I finally have a family, and I don't want my husband blowing out his mind with impossible stunts, like Dorsk 81."

        "Mara, that won't happen.  If I can't propel the ship faster than warp speed, then I just won't.  So we'll think of something else then."  He pulled her close and kissed her tenderly.  "Nothing is going to happen to me."

        She sent him a withering glare, but didn't answer.  It was no use.  Once he got an idea in his head, he was as stubborn as, well, as she was.  Her only consolation was knowing that he treasured their family life as much as she did, and wouldn't risk doing anything to jeopardize any of them, including himself.

 

        Later that day, Luke broached his idea to Captain Janeway.  To say she was skeptical was putting it mildly.

        "I'm not saying I can get you back to the Alpha Quadrant in one push, now," Luke said.  "You said Kes propelled you enough distance to take ten years off your trip.  Even if I can duplicate her feat, it will take several rounds.  And I will have to rest in between."  He looked at her earnestly.  "I believe I can do this, Captain.  Please allow me the opportunity to help your crew."

        The Captain called in Tuvoc and Chakotay, and Luke gave his pitch once more.  He told them about his students repelling the Star Destroyers.

        "Would there be any danger to the crew?" the Captain questioned him.

        "No more than when Kes gave you a push," he assured her.  "And this time you'll be prepared ahead of time."

        "Hmm.  Luke, would you give us a moment to discuss this?  You may wait on the bridge," Captain Janeway instructed him.

        "Of course, Captain."

 

        "What do you two think of this?" Janeway asked, after Luke had left.

        "He has demonstrated amazing powers already," began Chakotay.

        "Indeed," added Tuvoc.  "He has a very powerful mind.  I've never met or even heard of anyone with such control."

        "And just because he has not done anything this monumental so far since he came aboard, doesn't mean he can't.  We really don't know what he's capable of doing," Chakotay continued.

        "Yes," pondered the Captain. "That fact sometimes worries me.  I wonder if he even knows what he's capable of.  But, in this matter, I believe he's sincere."  She looked at her two senior officers.  "I'm inclined to let him try."

        Chakotay and Tuvoc both nodded in agreement.

        "I'll call him back in," Chakotay said.

 

        Luke returned to the ready room, and was relieved to learn they had faith in him.

        "You say you will 'repel' us away from a planet?" Tuvoc wanted more details.

        "Yes," replied the Jedi Master.  "Much like a mountain climber descends by repelling out away from the mountain."

        "Do a lot of mountain climbing, do you?" asked the Captain, smiling.

        "Yes, actually.  We have high mountains on Yavin," he responded earnestly.  "But I don't use a rope," he added, grinning slightly.

        "What type of planet do you believe this will require?" Tuvoc asked, straightfaced as always.

        "Any kind, or even a moon.  Anything with a mass considerably larger than Voyager," Luke answered.

        "I would like to find an uninhabited planet for this," the Captain put in, "just to be safe.  At least for the first time.  While you believe there should be no consequences to the planet, I don't want to take any chances."

        "Of course, Captain," Luke readily agreed.  "Perhaps you could even leave behind a probe that would send you data on the planet's condition afterwards."

        "Good idea.  Now all we have to do is find a suitable planet."

 

        About a week later, the Captain and Chakotay approached Luke during his break in the mess hall.

        "Luke, we may have found a planet that will meet your needs," the Captain began.

        "It's devoid of all life, and the entire surface is rock," continued Chakotay.

        "Sounds promising," Luke agreed.  "How soon will we reach it?"

        "In two days," Chakotay informed him.  "Can you be ready by then?  If not, we can stay in orbit there until you are."

        "Two days should be sufficient," Luke replied.  "If I can be excused from my duty shifts," he added.

        "Of course," the Captain assured him.  "Do whatever is necessary to prepare yourself.  I'm sure we can have someone look after the baby, if Mara needs to help you."

        "That would be most generous," Luke thanked her.  "I will need a space to meditate where I won't be interrupted.  Perhaps one of the holodecks?"

        "Absolutely.  Just let one of us know if there is anything else," the Captain replied.

        "Thank you, Captain.  I shall begin meditating tomorrow morning."

 

        That evening, Luke and Mara began their preparations.

        "What do you want me to do?" Mara asked.

        "Well, I won't be able to help with Dane for the next few days.  The Captain said they would have someone help you with him, though," Luke answered her.  "I thought I would meditate in one of the holodecks, where there won't be any distractions."

        Mara leaned over toward him and began kissing his neck.  "Distractions like this, you mean?"

        Luke closed his eyes and sighed.  "Unfortunately, exactly like that."

        "Then can I at least distract you all I want tonight?"

        "Absolutely," Luke responded, as he pulled her closer.

 

        The next morning, Luke rose early, showered, and dressed in silence.  Mara watched him moving around in the semi-darkness of their bedroom.

        "Can I bring you some dinner this evening?" she asked quietly.

        "Sure," he whispered, after a moment's hesitation.

        "I'll be thinking of you all day, you know," she continued.

        He came and sat next to her.  "I know," he replied, as he leaned over and kissed her.  "You are part of me."

        Luke reluctantly pulled away and started for the doorway.

        "Luke?" Mara whispered.

        "Yes?" He paused and turned.

        "May the Force be with you," she said softly.

        He sent her a feeling of love, and left for the holodeck.

 

        In the holodeck, Luke recreated one of his favorite peaceful environments.  He placed himself on a mountainside, looking down over the jungles of Yavin IV.  He wished he could recreate the feel of the animal and plant life through the Force, but pushed that thought from his mind.  He was there to meditate, not get homesick.  He settled himself down cross-legged, and closed his eyes, then opened himself up fully to the Force.  Images of Yoda, Ben, and all the Masters he had seen through the holocron flashed before him.  He would need all their help and strength for what he would do tomorrow.

 

        After what seemed to Luke as only an hour or two later, he felt Mara's presence nearby.  He came out of his trance as she lightly touched his arm.

        "I brought you something to eat," she said gently.  "It's dinnertime."

        "Thank you," he smiled at her.

        "I can tell it is going well," she told him.  "I have never felt so at peace."

        "Nor I," he answered.  "Mara, I feel I can reach out and touch the Force."

        "And I know you will succeed," she assured him.

 

        After Luke finished the light meal, Mara left and he resumed his meditating.  He continued through the night and into the next day.  At about 16:00 the next afternoon, Captain Janeway and Commander Tuvoc entered the holodeck.  Luke opened his eyes as he felt them approach.

        "We are in orbit around the planet," the Captain advised him.

        "Yes, I know," Luke answered, "and I am ready."

        "I was wondering if I might ask a favor," Tuvoc inquired.

        "A favor, Tuvoc?" Luke hid a smile.  "Of course."

        "I would like to sit with you when you perform this feat," he stated.  "I am hoping to gain a better understanding of the Force."

        "Yes, of course you may."

 

        Luke had already planned ahead to position himself in the lounge on Deck 15, which would afford him a clear view of the planet from the rear of the ship.  He and Tuvoc, therefore, headed for the now deserted lounge.  Mara stayed with Dane in their

quarters, though she mentally sent him her support.

        Luke settled himself in his familiar cross-legged position, looking out the full-length windows.  The barren planet filled most of the view.  Tuvoc took a similar pose next to him.

        Luke tapped his comm badge.  "Captain, we are ready."

        "Very well," she responded.  Her voice then came over the speakers, "Attention, all hands.  Be ready to brace yourselves in the next few moments.  Captain out."

        Luke stretched out his arms and let the Force fill him.  He could feel Mara sending him her strength in the Force, and felt Tuvoc's support as well.

        Summoning all the Force strength possible, Luke PUSHED against the planet, and suddenly the ship shot away from the sphere at an incredible speed.

        Mara clutched the armrest of her stuffed chair with one hand, and held her other hand around Dane, who was snuggled against the front of her in a baby carrier.  The Force she could feel emanating from Luke was almost overwhelming.  She could tell that even Dane could feel his father, and she concentrated on calming him.

        The rest of Voyager's crew clung to whatever they could.  On the bridge, no one spoke, though Harry's eyes widened as he saw the velocity registering on his control panel.

        Finally, after about thirty seconds, the ship slowed and gradually came to a stop.  Mara could feel Luke's exhaustion, but he seemed fine, to her relief.

        Harry announced how many light years they traveled, to everyone's astonishment.  Captain Janeway's voice came over the speaker and was quickly followed by a cheer from the entire ship.

        "Attention, everyone.  I am overjoyed to say we are now twelve years closer to home!"

 

        Luke relaxed and leaned back.  "Whew!" was all he said, as he grinned at Tuvoc.

        Tuvoc, for his part, was nearly as speechless.  "That was astonishing," he finally said.  "I can hardly believe it."

        "The Force is a powerful ally," was Luke's reply.

        About that time, Mara burst into the lounge, carrying Dane.  She knelt down next to Luke, and he hugged both of them. 

        "I knew you could do it," she cried.

        "Is that why you tried to talk me out of it?" he kidded her.

        Mara was saved from having to reply by the appearance of the Captain, Chakotay, and several others.  Luke got to his feet, and shook the Captain's proffered hand.

        "Congratulations, Luke," she beamed.  "We can never thank you enough."

        "No thanks are necessary," Luke replied.  "And we still have a long way to go, remember."

        "But you've given us renewed hope," she assured him.  "What we thought was impossible, now suddenly looks attainable."

        "We may have to make you morale officer," Neelix put in.  "You've done more for morale in thirty seconds than I have in five years."

        "I doubt that," Luke laughed.

        "Well, Tuvoc," Chakotay turned to the Lt. Commander, "could you feel the Force?"

        "I believe so," was the answer.  "I could feel a power emanating from Luke."

        "I could feel it from our cabin," Mara put in.  "It was overwhelming.  Even Dane felt something."

        "Luke, no duty roster for you tomorrow, I insist," the Captain ordered.

        "I will take you up on that," Luke smiled.  "I am rather tired."

 

        Luke took Dane in his arms, and he and Mara headed for their quarters.  They were interrupted several times along the way by grateful crew members.  When they finally reached their destination, Luke collapsed onto the couch.  Mara gently took Dane and laid him in his crib.  He was asleep almost instantly.  Mara looked over and saw that Dane's father was nearly asleep himself.  Smiling, she pulled Luke to his feet.

        "C'mon, you can make it as far as the bed," she chided him.

        "Can't you just levitate me there?" he joked sleepily.

        "And when I drop you...?"

        Luke just shook his head, not objecting as Mara helped him undress.  He gratefully crawled under the covers.  By the time Mara joined him a few minutes later, he was fast asleep.  She kissed him gently.

        "I am so proud to be your wife, my darling Jedi Master," she whispered.

 

        Over the next month, Luke performed the 'pushing' technique on Voyager two more times, bringing them ten to twelve thousand lightyears closer to the Alpha Quadrant on each occasion.  One more similar push, and Voyager would be 'home.'

        Nearly everyone on the ship was in a constant state of excitement, Vulcans excluded.  Seven was apprehensive about returning to a planet of which she had no recollection.  Chakotay, B'Elanna, and the other former Maquis members wondered what their fate would be as well.

 

        At last, the day arrived when Chakotay informed Luke that they were approaching a suitable planet for the final push.  Luke went through his now familiar meditation ritual, then positioned himself in the lounge.  Tuvoc, as was now his custom, joined him.

        Everyone literally held their breath, waiting, then hung on as the ship was suddenly propelled through space.  When Voyager finally slowed, the bridge was silent as Harry checked their position.  He broke into a wide grin and raised his fist in triumph.  "We're in the Alpha Quadrant!" he shouted.

 

        As Luke felt the ship come to a stop, he knew his job was over.  Unexpectantly, he rose quickly and left the lounge without saying a word to Tuvoc.  While he was happy for the crew and glad he could help them, this would be their celebration.  He wanted nothing more than to hold his wife and son.  He even went so far as to cloak himself as he made his way to his quarters.

        Mara was waiting when Luke reached his destination.  She knew how he shunned the hero role, and she could feel his emotions as clearly as her own.  She enveloped him in her arms as he came through the door, and he clung to her in his exhaustion and relief that his self-appointed task was complete.  Words were not necessary between them.  Silently, they laid down on their bed, holding each other, with Dane snuggled between them.

 

        Mara awoke first, and gently reached over and traced her finger along Luke's sleeping face.  Suddenly she froze, as she realized Dane was no longer lying between them.

        "I put him in his crib during the night," she heard Luke whisper.  She felt Dane's presence, sleeping soundly.

        "At least he usually sleeps through the night now," she responded quietly.  "I wonder which one of us he takes after in that regard.  Surely it must be you."

        Luke chuckled softly.  "You didn't know me growing up.  I didn't give my aunt and uncle a moment's rest."

        Luke rolled over and stared at the ceiling.  "I suppose we have to get up sometime.  I can't hide in here forever."

        Mara snuggled closer to him, stroking him with her fingertips.  "Oh, I think you could for a little while longer," she cooed.

        Luke nuzzled her neck lovingly.  "You can be pretty persuasive, Mrs. Skywalker."

 

        An hour later, as they lay in each other's arms, Dane began to cry softly.

        "He has good timing," Luke observed, kissing Mara as he eased out of bed.

        "Hmm.  You shower first while I feed him," she answered sleepily as she sat up, propping herself up with several pillows.  Luke laid their son in her arms, then headed for the shower.  When he finished, Mara took her turn while Luke changed and dressed Dane.  Finally the Skywalker family was ready.

        "Well," Luke said, "I guess it's time to see what this Alpha

Quadrant is like."

        They headed for the mess hall, where they were greeted by Neelix and several others.

        "So, Neelix, what's your impression of the Alpha Quadrant?" 

Luke asked.  "Will this make us a good home?"

        "It's hard to say yet," Neelix answered.  "They say it will take another week to reach Earth.  The Captain has already contacted Starfleet.  I'm sure they're anxious to meet you."

        Luke groaned inwardly.

        "Anyway, we're going to dock at a Federation space station in a couple days.  I guess we'll have a better idea then."

        Luke and Mara nodded, just as Captain Janeway walked up.

        "There you two are," she greeted them.  "Everyone's been wondering when you would finally make an appearance."

        "I needed to rest, you know," Luke said simply.

        "So now that you're rested, I would like both of you to join the staff and me for a dinner party tonight.  We have to celebrate."

        "Of course, Captain.  As you wish," Luke replied, as he held Dane with one arm and clutched Mara's hand with the other.

        "And Luke, Mara," Janeway added, "we can never thank you enough.  You've saved us."

        "No thanks are necessary, Captain.  Helping others is what

Jedi do."

 

        The Captain's dinner party that evening was a lively celebration.  Luke and Mara were even beginning to enjoy themselves.  Of course, they had had no trouble finding a babysitter from the host of eager volunteers.

        After dinner, the staff moved to the senior lounge.  Mixed emotions filled the air as they all realized this would probably be the last time they would all be together on Voyager in such a setting.

        "Will you and Luke live on Earth?" B'Elanna was asking Mara.

        "I'm not sure," came the reply.  "It sounds like a nice place, but we haven't really decided yet.  I guess we're still hoping to find a way back to our own galaxy."

        "And I'm hoping the charges against the Maquis will have been dropped by now.  I suppose there will be adjustments to be made for all of us."

        "Yes, I suppose so," Mara answered distractedly, as she gazed across the crowded room toward Luke, who was listening intently to Tuvoc.

       

        "You would be most welcome to make your home on Vulcan," Tuvoc was saying.  "I'm certain my colleagues would find your mind control powers as intriguing as I have."

        Luke could feel Mara's disapproval of Tuvoc's invitation.  He smiled in her direction.

        "Thanks for the offer, Tuvoc, but Mara and I haven't decided yet where we'll live.  But perhaps we can come for a visit."

 

        Captain Janeway was engaged in conversation with Chakotay when suddenly a swirling wind swept through the room, and when it stopped a man in a Starfleet admiral's uniform appeared in their midst.

        "Q!" exclaimed the Captain.  "What are you doing here?"

        "My dear Kathy, do you think I would miss such a momentous celebration?  Why, when Q told me that Voyager was spotted in the Alpha Quadrant, I had to rush right over," Q explained.  "So tell me, how DID you manage it?"

        Captain Janeway gave a smug smile.  "You mean you don't know?  I thought the Q knew everything."

        "I've been busy, of course.  And I just saw you, happily plugging along in the Delta Quadrant."

        "That's been nearly a year and a half ago."

        "To me, a year is but a moment," Q chided her.  "But you are evading my question, Kathy.  How did you reach the Alpha Quadrant in such a short time?"

       

        Luke and Mara each listened to the conversation with much curiosity.  Who was this stranger who appeared out of thin air?  And had the audacity to call the Captain 'Kathy'?

 

        "Let's just say my crew has been quite industrious lately.  Never underestimate us mere mortals, Q."

        Luke was mildly surprised at the Captain's response, and he felt similar reactions throughout the room.

        "So, you're playing it coy, hmm, Captain," Q replied, seeming slightly annoyed.  "Sort of, it's for you to know and me to find out, is it?"

        Janeway only repeated her smug smile.

 

        "Who is that?" Mara whispered to B'Elanna.

        "He's called Q," B'Elanna replied quietly.  "He's some kind of omnipotent being, and can take any form, though he seems to enjoy using this appearance when visiting us.  Apparently all of these beings go by the name of Q."

 

        "So, I guess I'll just have to interview the crew," Q said.  He made his way through the room, stopping to chat with Chakotay, Tom, and others, though none of them would reveal their method of arrival.

        Q spotted Seven of Nine.  "A Borg!  Now isn't this interesting.  And quite a knockout, too.  But I don't see how even a Borg could get you here this fast, Kathy."

        Q then noticed Mara standing by B'Elanna.

        "My, my, my, Kathy, how did you acquire such beautiful new crew members?"  He gave Mara another once-over.  "In fact, where did you find another human in the Delta Quadrant?"

        "As I said, Q, never underestimate Voyager," the Captain taunted.

        Q took Mara's hand and kissed it quite gallantly.

        "Allow me to introduce myself, my dear.  I am Q.  And who might you be?"

        "You may call me Mara," she answered, with an exaggerated imitation of being demure.  "But I must warn you, my husband can be quite jealous."

        "Husband?" Q followed Mara's gaze across the room, settling on a blonde man wearing black.  "Another new crew member?  And why don't you two wear these dashing Starfleet uniforms?"

        Q made his way over to Luke.  "You have a beautiful wife, Mr. ...ah?"

        Luke extended his hand in greeting.  "Luke Skywalker.  Pleased to meet you, Q."

        "Luke Skywalker ... Skywalker...," Q's brow furrowed in concentration.  "Where have I heard that name?  Ah, yes, there's a Jedi Master named Skywalker a few galaxies over.  Rather unique beings, those Jedi."

        Luke's eyes grew wide.  "What did you say?" he whispered.  Mara had also heard Q's prattling, and joined them.

        "You know of the Jedi?" Mara asked him, incredulously.

        "I've never personally met one, but Q has, and she says they're quite intriguing, for humans."

        The Captain and the others had all gathered around by this time.

        Q glanced around, then stared at Luke and Mara.  "You two are Jedi, aren't you?  You are the Jedi Master I've heard of," he continued, looking at Luke.  "Kathy, how did you ever manage to acquire your own personal Jedi?" he asked the Captain.        "It was more like they found us," was her reply.

        "And they got you to the Alpha Quadrant!" He turned back to Luke.  "So how did you do it?  You are, still, just a human.  You can't blink your eyes and magically transport a ship across a galaxy."

        "No, I can't," Luke responded, not sure how much to reveal to this stranger.  He glanced at the Captain for guidance.

        "Now, Q," she put in.  "Can't we have some secrets to ourselves?"

        "Not from me," he answered conceitedly.

        Indeed, the whole story did eventually come out, from Luke and Mara's arrival in the Delta Quadrant, to Luke's propelling Voyager to their current location.

 

        "How fascinating," Q commented after hearing their tale.  "I've always wanted to see a Jedi in action.  Do some tricks for me, Jedi," he ordered.

        "I don't do tricks," Luke countered.  This time Mara did not protest.

        "Rather uppity, aren't we?" Q complained.

        Just then, an overhead illumination fixture detached and hurled itself toward several crewmembers.  Luke held up his hand quickly, and the fixture stopped in mid-air.  He lowered it to the floor, then turned to the grinning Q.

        "Excellent!" Q cackled.  "Now let's see what else you can do."

        "I'm warning you, don't test me," Luke growled.

        "You're WARNING me?  How quaint.  Perhaps we should up the ante."

        Luke stared at him warily, not knowing what to expect.

        "How about you run through a series of little Jedi demonstrations for me, and in return," Q paused for effect, "I'll send you back to your own galaxy."

        "That's blackmail," Luke protested.

        "It's what he's best at," Tom said dryly.

        "What kind of demonstrations?" Mara put in.

        Luke glared at her, but didn't speak.

        "Oh, nothing a Jedi Master couldn't handle," came the reply.

        Mara hesitated.  She could feel the conflicting emotions in Luke.

        "What if I performed your demonstrations?" she offered.

        "Mara, no!" Luke interjected.

        "Do you want our son to never see his aunt and uncle and cousins?  Do you want to never set foot on Yavin again?  Luke, this may be our only chance."

        Luke sighed.  It was hard to refuse his wife, especially when it was an opportunity that he wanted just as much.  He looked over where Janeway and Chakotay stood listening.

        "Captain, does he truly have the power to send us back?" Luke inquired.

        "Yes, he does," was the reply.

        "Then why didn't he return Voyager to the Alpha Quadrant?" was Luke's next question.

        "That's a long story," the Captain sighed.  "But don't let that influence your decision, Luke.  You and Mara alone must choose the correct path for yourselves."

        Luke nodded, then turned to Q.  "If you would give us a moment?"

        "Of course, Jedi.  Take your time."

 

        Luke took Mara's hand and they walked over to a secluded corner of the room.

        "Luke," Mara began, "this should be our decision together.  I don't want to talk you into something you don't want to do.  I'll be happy whatever galaxy we're in, as long as we're together."

        Luke looked down at his and Mara's clasped hands.  "Perhaps what's bothering me most is that part of me, a big part, does want to do this.  Even though another part says I'd be violating my own principles."  He looked into Mara's eyes.  "It's time for us to go home, Mara."

        At that moment, they both knew their decision had been made.

 

        "Q," Luke said, as he approached the newcomer, "if I perform your demonstrations, you will send all three of us back, myself, Mara, and our son, in our own ship.  Is this correct?  And there will be no going back in time?"

        "Of course, whatever you like," Q said casually.  "I can do anything, you see."

        Luke suppressed a grimace.  If he can do anything, why doesn't he get himself a less obnoxious personality?  "Very well, I will do this.  But there will be limits set up beforehand.  These demonstrations will not go on indefinitely."

        "Yes, yes, whatever," Q snapped back.  "Let's see.  Captain, you've given me an idea."

        "I have?"

        "Yes, your comment about their following their own path."  He turned to Luke.  "I will direct you along a pathway, with various obstacles as you go, naturally.  Captain Janeway and I will be waiting at the end of your trek."

        Luke glanced at Mara, then the Captain.  "Agreed."

        "Excellent!" Q smirked in satisfaction.  "Now, what say we begin tomorrow morning, right here."

        "I'll be ready," Luke answered solemnly.  "Now if everyone will excuse me, I shall begin preparing myself."  Luke bowed slightly to the assembled crowd, and quickly left the lounge.

 

        "He's gone to our quarters to meditate," Mara explained to the raised eyebrows and questioning looks.  She turned to Q.  "Listen, you, I want your word Luke won't be put in danger."

        "Why, my dear, where's the fun in that?"

        Mara could tell that Q wasn't joking.  "Then perhaps I should go along, to watch his back."

        "You are most welcome, of course.  Seeing a beautiful Jedi such as yourself in action would be even more delightful."

        Mara gave Q one of her nearly forgotten patented glares, then nodded.  "I'll be here."  She then turned and left the lounge without so much as a glance at anyone else.

 

        "You are not going with me," Luke said calmly from his meditative pose, as Mara entered their quarters.

        "It is not your decision," she replied in an equally tranquil voice.

        "Mara, please," Luke said, looking up at her.

        "Don't 'Mara, please' me," she snapped.  "You think because we're married you can bat those baby blues and I'll give in.  Well, it's not going to happen."

        Luke rose and started to open his mouth, but Mara cut him off.

        "Luke, I want to be part of this.  I need to be.  I am a Jedi, too.  Why should you take all the responsibility?"

        "Mara, think of Dane."

        "I am thinking of Dane."

        "But what if something happens?"

        "There will be less chance of something going wrong if we're both there.  We're a team, remember?"

        Luke stared a moment at the determined look on his wife's face, then nodded.  "All right," he finally yielded.  "We'll both do this."  He then cocked one eyebrow.  "Of course this means you have to meditate all night with me."

 

 

        Luke and Mara arrived in the crew lounge the next morning, where Q, the Captain, and several others were assembled.

        "Ah, there you are," Q rubbed his hands together in glee.  "Shall we begin?"

        Luke bowed slightly.  "We are ready."

 

        In the blink of an eye, the Jedi couple found themselves in a hedge maze.

        "You've got to be kidding," Mara laughed.  "He wants to see if we can find our way out of a maze?"

        Luke was silent a moment, reaching out with the Force.  "Perhaps things are not as they seem."

        Mara stared at him, then stretched out with the Force herself.  Her danger sense flickered.  She couldn't detect any one single source; instead there seemed to be many smaller hazards.

        "So now what?"

        "Levitate me up.  I'll look over the top."  Mara concentrated and Luke rose slowly upward.

        "Hold it," he called out suddenly.  He looked up, then took his lightsaber hilt and held it above his head.  It sizzled against an invisible force field.  Mara lowered him back down.

        "I want to try something," she said, igniting her own lightsaber.  She carved a doorway through the hedge, but it magically closed back up before she could step through.

        "I guess we do this the old-fashioned way," Luke shrugged.

        They proceeded cautiously through the first couple turns, easily sensing and avoiding the dead ends.

        As Luke started to step around the next corner, Mara shot her arm out to stop him.

        "Wait.  Something's not right."

        Luke stretched out with the Force and nodded in agreement.

        Mara slashed off a large branch, pausing to watch as new growth instantly took its place.  She levitated the cut limb down the narrow passageway.  Two meters ahead, arrows flew out of both sides of the shrubbery.

        Mara gave a disgusted shake of her head.  "C'mon," she growled, leading the way to the next intersection.  A few turns later, they both stopped, sensing danger ahead.

        "Now what?" Mara grumbled.  Luke probed the sides of the hedge, then directed his gaze to the ground.  He PUSHED on the path just in front of them.  The ground gave way, revealing a large pit.  Mara peered over the edge, noting the upward-pointing spikes at the bottom.

        "This is so juvenile," she groused.

        "Don't knock it," Luke rejoindered, as they easily leapt over the open hole.  "I hope all the tests are this simple."

        They continued on, avoiding several more traps without any trouble, eventually emerging from the maze without a scratch.

 

        Mara began mumbling.  "Surely he can come up with something better than...”

        "Look out!" Luke shouted, igniting his lightsaber in one fluid motion.  Mara's saber also whooshed to life, as they blocked shots from dozens of uniformed alien beings.

        Green and blue blades sizzled against the onslaught.  Their attackers gradually abandoned their phasers and surrounded the Jedi, who stood back to back.

        "What are they doing?" Mara called over her shoulder.  "We could slaughter them."

        Mara spoke prematurely, however, as their lightsabers suddenly vanished from their grips.

        "What the...!" Luke gasped.  There was no time for questions, as the aliens pounced.

      Mara spun and kicked the nearest adversary in the head, then reached behind and slammed another over her shoulder.  Luke also had his hands full, ducking to avoid a blow while knocking a knife from the grip of another foe.  Both knights weaved, bobbed, leapt, and twirled as their arms and legs flailed at the seemingly endless oncoming warriors.

        Suddenly Mara nearly lost her balance, as her pirouetting kickbox met thin air.  She and Luke looked around in astonishment as the attackers completely disappeared as mysteriously as they had appeared.

        "All right, so that was a little more challenging," Mara smirked.

        Luke looked down, feeling the familiar weight of his lightsaber once more resting against his thigh.

        "Expect the unexpected," he smiled slightly, arching an eyebrow at his wife.

 

        The Jedi followed the trail into a narrow gorge.  Sheer walls rose up over five hundred meters, barely letting in the filtered daylight.  They made their way along the pathway for perhaps a kilometer.

        "So what's this test supposed to be?" Mara complained.  "To see if we have claustrophobia?"

        "I doubt that," Luke returned.  "Though it does look like we're close to the end," he added, as he observed the increased light ahead.

        A shadow abruptly blocked that promising light.  Luke and Mara craned their necks in astonishment at a monstrous animal that unexpectedly appeared in front of them.

        "It must be a hundred meters tall," Mara gasped in wonder.  "We can't jump over it."

        The huge beast filled the gap completely, its beady eyes watching them warily.  It made no move to attack, however.

        "I don't want to hurt it," Luke stated, unnecessarily.  Mara always knew exactly how he felt.  "Perhaps we can just scare it away."

        He sent thoughts of danger to the creature's miniscule brain, but it remained rooted in place.  He then sent thoughts of food waiting in the opposite direction.  Same effect -- none.

        Next, Luke let loose with a krayt dragon call.  The beast seemed to think it amusing.  Luke bit his lower lip in thought.

        "I think you're losing your touch, sweetheart," Mara commented dryly.  "A young Jedi I once knew scared a vornskr by tapping its nose with his lightsaber."

        Luke just shook his head while he ignited his lightsaber, levitating it toward the beast.  The saber poked the huge creature on its hopefully sensitive nose.  It swatted the blade away like an annoying gnat.

        "As I recall, the vornskr didn't exactly shrink in fear either," he reflected.

        "Perhaps one blade isn't enough," Mara said thoughtfully.  They levitated both their lightsabers upward, careful not to actually cut into the beast.  The blades sizzled lightly against the animal's thick skin over and over, however, having no effect whatsoever.

        "What I wouldn't give for a giant Bantha electro-prod right about now," Luke said off-handedly, as he tried to think of options left.

        His comment had inspired his spouse, though.  Luke turned and looked at her suspiciously, eyes narrowing.

        "No way," he stated flatly.

        Mara gripped his chin with her fingers.  "I have all your memories.  I know you did it one day when you were out in the jungle by yourself, just to see what it felt like."

        "I won't now."

        "Just enough to scare it away," she insisted.  "It won't hurt the creature.  And you're not going to turn to the dark side."

        "I know that," he bit out, feeling frustrated.

        Mara only crossed her arms in expectation.

        Luke turned away from her, facing the pawing beast.  Taking a deep breath, he pointed his arms outward, and in that instant blue lightening jumped from his fingertips, arcing through the air toward the startled animal.  It yipped in surprise.  Luke let loose another jolt, and the monster reared back this time.

        "Once more," Mara whispered.

        The lightening sprang out again, this time hitting its nose, accomplishing what the lightsabers could not.

        The animal decided these tiny beings were more trouble than they were worth.  It managed to back out of the narrow gap, and stalked away into the surrounding forest, apparently in search of a less bothersome mid-day snack.

        "Let's go," Luke said quickly, cutting off Mara's upcoming 'I told you so.'

 

        The Jedi resumed their trek along the path.  Soon they came to a number of metal grids imbedded in the ground.  The grids were laid out in a circular pattern, some 500 meters in diameter.  Luke and Mara stood at the end of the path, overlooking the strange scene before them.

        "What do you think it is?" Mara wondered aloud.

        "I don't know," Luke said slowly, deep in thought.  He narrowed his eyes, then pointed toward the center of the gridwork.  "There's something out there, on a raised platform."

        Mara frowned and stared out in the direction indicated, enhancing her vision with the Force as much as possible. 

        "I see it," she finally acknowledged.  "A gold-colored...something."  She glanced sideways at her silent husband.  "Well?  Are we meant to cross this?"

        Luke nodded.  "Yes, I believe so."  He held out his hand to her and smiled as she took his grasp.

 

        Their boots clanged on the metal grids as they crossed to the center.  When they reached their objective, Mara picked up the golden statuette.  She turned it around, then rolled her eyes.  The statue was sculpted in the image of Q.

        Luke chuckled at her reaction, then looked up sharply as his danger sense flared.  Mara also scanned the area in consternation.

        Without warning, fire erupted from the entire gridwork, shooting several meters into the air.

        "It's a trap," Luke stated the obvious.

        "Tell me something I don't know," Mara retorted, but she received no answer.

        The inferno encircled the platform on which they stood, flames threatening to grow even higher.

        "We need to get out NOW!" Mara shouted over the deafening roar.

        *No, wait,* Luke sent via the Force, touching her arm.

        She looked at him as though he'd lost his mind.  "Stang, Luke..."

        *Silently,* he cautioned her.  *He's surely monitoring us.*

        *So?*

        *Think about it,* he reasoned.  *Every time we pass a test, he's going to come up with a new one.*

        She waited for him to go on, beginning to see where he was going with this.

        *These tests won't stop until we finally fail one.*

        *So you think we should fail this one?*

        *In a manner of speaking.*

        *Go on,* Mara prompted.

        *I can create an illusion of us staying here, while cloaking us as we escape.*

        *And you're going to protect us from being burned alive at the same time?*

        *No.  You are.*

        Mara started to protest.

        *You can do it,* Luke insisted.  *Just picture in your mind a shield of cool water all around us.*  He squeezed her hand.  *You have to believe in yourself.  You have the ability.*

        *You'd better hope so.*

        *No doubts,* he ordered, the intense heat stinging his face. *Now!*

        As he and Mara stepped toward the conflagration, they dissolved into invisibility.  In the same instant, images of themselves appeared where they had just stood.

        Mara maintained their shield against the flames, rejecting the fear that wanted to rise up inside her.

        Finally they were through, though Luke kept them hidden from sight.  He spotted Q and Janeway a short distance away, as he had suspected they would be.

 

        "It seems your Jedi are having trouble with this one," Q commented dryly.

        "Q, you have to stop this madness," the Captain protested vehemently.

        Luke and Mara, silent and unseen, came up behind the pair.  Luke had thought that Q might be able to sense them, but he gave no indication.

        "The tests are over, Q," Luke proclaimed.

        Q and Captain Janeway whirled around in astonishment.

        Luke held out the shining statue.  "Not a very good likeness, I must say."

        The observers both glanced back at the now-empty ring of fire, then again at the two Jedi.

        "Indeed," Q bowed slightly.  "I congratulate you, Jedi.  This was most entertaining."

        "And now it's time for you to hold up your end of the bargain," Janeway said to her companion.

        "Certainly.  A Q does not go back on his word."

        "I'll remember that," Janeway smiled.

        "Just tell me when you wish to leave," he informed the Skywalkers.

        "We have to pack, and say our good-byes," Mara answered, still not quite believing the tests were over.

        "How about tomorrow morning?" Captain Janeway suggested.

        "Very well, I will return then." Q waved his hand, and Luke, Mara, and the Captain found themselves on Voyager's bridge.

 

        The rest of the day passed quickly.  Luke and Mara alternated between packing up their much-increased accumulation of possessions, and bidding farewell to each of their closest friends.  They declined the Captain's offer of one last get-together, citing the previous evening's dinner party had already served that purpose.

        Finally, after a mostly sleepless night, morning arrived.  The Skywalker family's gear was stored on the Jade's Fire by the many helpful volunteers.  Luke and Tom secured Dane's crib into the main cabin, after equipping it with space-travel constraints.

 

        By mid-morning, Luke and Mara stood at the bottom of the Fire's boarding ramp.

        "I can hardly believe we're finally going home," Mara said, looking at their surrounding friends.

        "And as we can all attest to, there's no place like home," Chakotay replied.

        "Perhaps, instead of following Q's yellow brick road, all you needed to do was click your heels together three times," Janeway said, smiling.

        Mara looked down at her boots.  "Too bad I left my ruby slippers on Coruscant."  She winked at the Captain's surprised expression.  "We watched that one in your holo archives."

        Luke turned, frowning.  "That doesn't make Dane or me Toto, does it?"

        "No, you're the great and powerful Oz that brought the rest of us home," Tom joined in, jokingly.

        "For two people that wanted to leave here so badly, you certainly are dawdling," Q complained.

        Mara and Luke gave one more round of handshakes and hugs to their comrades.  When Mara got to B'Elanna, they were reluctant to let go.

        "I never had a real friend like you before," B'Elanna choked out, trying to hold back her very un-Klingon-like tears.

        "Me either," Mara confessed.  "I'm going to miss you most of all."  

        "I think that makes you the Scarecrow," Luke quipped.

        Mara shoved him toward the ramp.  "See what I have to put up with."

 

        At last, they made their way into the ship, strapping Dane into his crib, then settling into the cockpit.  Luke lifted the Jade's Fire out through the open hanger door as smoothly as he had landed there a lifetime ago.  As they drifted out next to Voyager, Q's face appeared in mid-air.

        "Ready?"

        Luke hesitated, then reached over and flipped on their comm.  "Goodbye, everyone," he and Mara sent one last farewell.

        "Goodbye, Luke and Mara Skywalker," came Janeway's voice.  "May the Force be with you."

        The Jedi turned to Q's visage.

        "We're ready."

       

 

Part V

 

Home

 

        Luke and Mara both unconsciously held their breath as the stars around them, and Voyager, faded from their view.  Almost immediately, new star patterns winked into existence.  Star patterns that seemed familiar.

        "Quick, check the navicomputer," Mara blurted out, as she unhooked her restraints.  "I'm going to look in on Dane."

        Her instruction to Luke was unnecessary, as he was already studying the readings.  He could sense Dane's warm and comforting presence, though he could appreciate Mara's need to actually see him.  If she hadn't gone, he would have.

        Dane was wide awake, gurgling happily, as Mara looked down into his crib.  She heard a 'whoopee!' from the cockpit.  Releasing Dane from his crib restraints, she picked him up and hurried back up front.

        Luke hugged them both, grinning widely.  "Mara!  He did it! 

We're home!"  He swung them both around, as Mara laughed with him.

        "So where exactly are we?" she asked, when he finally set her back down.

        "A few hours out of Coruscant," he announced excitedly.  His eyes became unfocused for a moment, and Mara could feel him reaching out for Leia's presence.  A few seconds later, he smiled quietly.

        Without speaking, Luke enveloped Mara in a long, sensuous kiss, Dane stilled clutched between them.  He knew Mara had also felt Leia's startled acknowledgment and subsequent joy.

 

        Only moments before, Leia Organa Solo had been sitting quietly in a morning Senate meeting, trying to pay attention to an Ithorian Senator's long-winded oratory.  The past fifteen months had been hard on Leia.  Luke's disappearance had broken her spirit, something even the destruction of her beloved Alderaan hadn't been able to do.  This admission pained her greatly, but she attributed it to the fact that she no longer had a rebellion to take her mind off her sorrows.

        Though Leia was the first one to note the absence of her brother's presence, she was the last one to give up hope that he would be found.  But finally, after over a year of searching, of reaching out with the Force as hard as she could, along with her children and the other Jedi, of following up every lead that surfaced, all of which proved fruitless, finally, exhausted, she just gave up.  She knew Luke would be disappointed in her, but, sithspawn, he was the one who abandoned them.  Abandoned her.  He was the one who willingly went off with that Jade woman, against Leia's protests.

        Leia at first was certain Mara Jade was responsible for Luke's disappearance.  She never trusted that woman any farther than she could see her.  Finally Han's arguments that no sign could be found of either Mara or her ship, despite a galaxy-wide search by both New Republic Intelligence and Talon Karrde, reluctantly convinced her that perhaps it was possible that Luke, Mara Jade, and the Jade's Fire could have met with complete destruction.  After that admission to herself, she spent weeks hoping that Luke's spirit would appear to her, to comfort her.  But as the weeks turned into months, she finally resigned herself to the fact that she would never see her brother again.

        The New Republic government officially declared Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade dead one year after their disappearance.  Luke had left a will, though he had only a few mementos and a small amount of money to be distributed.  Mara Jade had significant credit amounts in several different banking establishments, but left no will, causing all her accounts to be frozen until the back-logged court system could decide what to do with them.  Talon Karrde seemed to hang on to desperate hope nearly as long as Leia.  He kept up Mara's rent payments for six months, then reluctantly had her possessions put in storage, and let her apartment go.

 

        And so Leia was sitting in the Senate, her now graying hair straggling loose from her ill-kept braids, when suddenly she sat up with a jolt.  She must have been daydreaming, she told herself, as those around her gazed her way curiously.  But no, there it was again.  Leia closed her eyes, feeling Luke's touch on her mind.  She smiled widely as he responded to her Force probe.  He was alive!  He was coming home to her!

        The Senators looked on in amazement as Leia jumped up, hastily announcing she had a family emergency, and ran from the chamber like a madwoman.  She reached her suite in record time, oblivious to the startled onlookers she swept by.

 

        "Han!  Han!" Leia screeched, tears pouring down her cheeks as she rushed into their apartment.  Han ran out of the kitchen and grabbed hold of his shaking wife.

        "What's wrong?" he asked worriedly.  "Is it one of the kids?  Did something happen at their school?"

        "No, no," she gushed.  "Luke!  It's Luke!  He's alive!  He's coming back!"

        "How...?  When...?"  It was then Han looked closely at her face and realized her tears were tears of joy.  Her eyes sparkled with excitement, something he'd not seen in fifteen months.

        "I felt his mind touch mine, just now, in the Senate."

        "Are you sure you weren't, well, imagining things again?" Han inquired, tentatively, not wanting to upset her, but not wanting her to get her hopes up either, if this proved to be another dream.  Leia had thought she felt Luke presence several times in the past fifteen months, only to go into a deep depression afterwards, when Han convinced her she was only dreaming.

        "No, I'm sure," she stated emphatically.  "This felt different.  It was real."

        "So what did he...?" Han began, but just then their comm buzzed.  Han hurried to the unit.

        "Solo here."

        "General Solo, we have an incoming transmission for you." The young operator paused, sounding perplexed.  "Its responder identifies it as coming from the Jade's Fire.  Wasn't that...?"

        "Put it through," Han answered hastily, cutting her off.  A familiar voice came on the line.

        "Han, old friend."

        "Luke, I can't believe it," Han replied, astonished.  Leia was at his side instantly.

        "Luke, is it really you?  Where are you?" she put in anxiously.

        "Leia, you know it's me.  I felt your touch."  Mara squeezed Luke's hand.  "And we're about two hours out of Coruscant.  It will be so good to see all of you again."

        "Luke, where have you been all this time?" Han inquired.

        "That's a long story, which we'll save until we talk to you in person.  Sorry if I worried you, Leia."  An apology that sounded woefully inadequate, even to Luke's own ears.  "See you soon."

        "Luke, wait..." Leia began, but he was gone.

 

        Leia hugged Han fiercely.  "Oh, Han, this is so incredible."  She pulled away from him.  "I've got so much to do.  I'll have Winter bring the children home from school early."

        "I'll get the kids," Han protested.  "You'd better tell the Senate you won't be back today.  But, I wouldn't say why just yet, in case...”

        Leia shook her head.  "This is NOT a trick.  I know it.  But we'll keep it to ourselves for now.  Until he's actually here."  Leia gave him a quick kiss, and left for the Senate, a thousand different thoughts swirling through her mind.

 

        "You know, we could micro-jump in, and be there a lot sooner," Mara commented to Luke.

        He turned to her.  "I think we'll need the two hours to make plans."

        "Plans?  Such as?"

        "Such as, what do we need to pack?  Where are we going to stay tonight?"  He grasped her hand.  "Where are we going to live?  Are we going to risk letting all of Coruscant see we have a child?"

        "You mean, things we've put off discussing because we weren't sure we'd ever get back here," Mara replied.  She remembered the first kidnapping attempt on the twins that she herself had foiled not long after meeting the Solos.  She thought of how the twins had been hidden away the first two years of their lives, and Anakin also for a short time, and of their kidnapping several years later.

        Mara rose and led Luke back toward the lounge.  "Well, we might as well get comfortable."

 

        Nearly two hours later, the Jade's Fire was on an approach vector with the main spaceport.  Luke felt strangely uncomfortable in his Jedi robes.  Mara could feel his nervousness. 

        "It'll be all right," she soothed.  "We'll just play it by ear."

        "I know," he resigned.  "I just have this strange feeling of disappointment looming."

        As soon as he finished the landing cycle, Mara went back and brought Dane out.  Luke helped her snuggle him into a small baby sling, which Mara strapped to the front of her.  Luke gently kissed Dane on the head, and stroked his back.  "Sleep, Dane,

sleep," he whispered softly.

        "You know this is for the best," he reminded Mara.  "We'll see how things go today.  We don't even know what's been happening here since we left."

        Mara nodded.  "And it's only till we get to Han and Leia's.  Well, help me with my cloak."

        Luke fastened his extra Jedi cloak around Mara's neck, and hooked it closed all the way down the front, effectively hiding Dane from view.  He had offered to carry Dane himself, but Mara protested that their son would get squished with Leia hugging Luke as soon as she saw him.

        As Luke straightened up, he could feel Han and Leia approaching the ship.

        "Looks like the welcoming committee has arrived," Mara commented, as Luke's smile widened.  "Go on out.  I'll be right behind you."

 

        Luke slapped open the hatch and hurried down the ramp, setting down their bag. Leia practically leapt into his arms, and he swung her around joyously.

        "Luke, I can hardly believe it!" she gushed.  "You've finally come home to us!"

        "Oh, Leia, I've missed you so," he hugged her tightly.  "And, Han, it's good to see you again."  Luke extracted himself from Leia long enough to give Han a friendly hug.

        Just then, Han spotted Mara coming slowly down the ramp.  She was dressed in a black Jedi robe, and had a pleasant smile on her face, quite different than Han ever remembered seeing her before.

        "Well, Mara Jade, I see you found your way back also."

        "It is my ship," she responded smartly.  "Did you think I'd let Skywalker return without me?"

        The frown that crossed Leia's face didn't escape Han's notice.

        "So," Han began, trying to regain the atmosphere of good cheer that was threatening to evaporate, "just where have you two been all this time?"

        "Let's just say we made a wrong turn on the way to Yavin," Luke answered.  "We'll explain everything when we get to your apartments.  If that's where we're going, that is."

        "Of course."  Leia tugged him toward their nearby speeder.  "You can sit in the back with me."

        Luke stood his ground, however, and looked toward Mara.

        Han, fortunately, took the hint.

        "You're invited, too, of course, Mara," he said to her, and he picked up the satchel Luke had left on the ramp.

 

        The foursome headed for the Solos' speeder.  Luke once again resisted Leia's pulling on his arm in order to take Mara's elbow and help her into the front passenger seat.

        There's definitely something odd going on, Han thought to himself as he put the luggage in the back and slipped into the driver's seat.  He could hear Leia chatting happily in the back, with Luke answering patiently.  Mara remained quiet, however, almost subdued.

        "This is a new look for you, isn't it, Mara?" Han ventured, hoping she wouldn't bite his head off.  "Does this mean you're a Jedi now?"

        Unexpectantly, Mara smiled.  "Yes, I am.  At least, Luke says I am, and he's the master.  I finally completed my training."

        "Ah, I see," Han nodded.

        "That is what I was going to Yavin for in the first place," she shrugged.

 

        They soon reached the palace, and rode the lift up to the Solos' private residence.  Luke remained attentive to Mara, his hand hovering at her back as she entered and exited the lift.

        They had barely made it through the front door when three raucous children jumped Luke, amid cries of "Uncle Luke!  Uncle Luke!"

        "Whoa, there," he laughed.  "You don't look like the same kids I remember."

        "We've grown, Uncle Luke," Jacen answered for all of them.  "You've been gone a long time."

        "I know, and I'm sorry," he hugged them all at once.  "I didn't mean to be."

        As Luke was entangled with his niece and nephews, with Mara looking on, Han pulled Leia aside.

        "C'mon, Princess, let's get everyone something to drink, and then we can sit down and find out where they've been."

       

        They had a small entertainment bar in the corner of their common room, and Han began pulling out appropriate refreshments.  He leaned over and whispered to Leia, "Don't you think they're acting mighty peculiar?"

        "What?" Leia was jolted out of the gaze she had transfixed on Luke.

        "Luke and Mara," he replied, still keeping his voice low.  "Have you ever seen them act this way together?"

        Leia's line of vision shifted to the smiling Mara, still standing to the side.  "Surely she'll leave soon.  This is a family reunion."

       

        Luke had already lost his outer cloak to the tugging of the kids, and now Mara moved closer to him.

        "Luke, honey, can you help me with my cloak?" Mara said clearly to him.

        Han, carrying a drink in each hand, stopped in his tracks.  'Luke, honey?' he mouthed to Leia, whose eyes had grown wide, an unpleasant expression crossing her face.

        Luke was dutifully undoing the clasps on Mara's cloak, and pulled it from her shoulders.

        A loud crash sounded through the room as the glasses slipped from Han's hands.  All the Solos stared at Mara.  There, strapped to the front of her in some kind of sling, was a small blonde-headed baby.  As Luke gently extracted him from the carrier, talking softly all the while, the child's eyes opened, bright blue eyes that slowly took in his surroundings.

        Han didn't need the Force to detect the chill coming from his wife.  Her eyes were as cold as ice.

        Jaina broke the silence first.  "A baby!  You found a baby!"

        Luke smiled, cradling Dane in his arms.  "We didn't just find him, Jaina.  He's ours."  Luke's eyes swept across the room, stopping at Leia's stare.  "This is our son," he added quietly.  Jacen and Anakin crowded in next to their sister, trying to get a better look.

        "How could you?" Leia snarled.  "How could you do this to me?"

        Luke looked pleadingly at his twin.  "Leia, please..." he began, but Leia had already stormed out of the room and into the kitchen, wishing they had the kind of doors that would slam.

        Han hesitated, not sure if he should confront Luke, follow Leia, or clean up the spilled drinks.  He decided the middle option needed his attention first, and hurried toward the kitchen.

 

        Leia's anger washed over Luke, Mara, even the children.  Luke and Mara exchanged glances, and Luke started to rise when Mara touched his arm.

        "Luke, wait.  Try to see things from her point of view.  She thought she would never see you again, and now you come sauntering back into her life, with a baby and me."

        "I know, Mara, but I have to talk to her.  I need to make her understand, we didn't do this to hurt her."

        Mara nodded and squeezed his arm as he handed Dane back to her.  He then followed Leia and Han's path.

 

        As Luke entered the kitchen, Leia was vehemently shrugging off Han's attempts to comfort her.  As she felt Luke's presence, she whirled toward her brother.

        "How could you!?" she spat at him, echoing her earlier outburst.

        "Leia, what do you mean?" he implored.  "What did I do?"

        "You just left us," she stammered, "so you could run off with that, that harlot!  We were here mourning you, while you were out sleeping with that Imperial tramp!"  Leia was so angry she was shaking.  "You must be ashamed of yourself, the way you sneaked in here with that little bastard."

        Luke stood perfectly still.  Han had never seen such a deadly expression on his face.

        "Don't you ever, ever call my wife or son names again," he said icily.  He had one hand raised slightly, and Han half-expected lightening bolts to jump out.

        "Luke, please, she didn't mean it."  Han had to diffuse this situation now, before it went any further.

        Leia, however, was not about to back down.  "Your wife!" she shrieked.  "You couldn't possible do something that insane!  How could you marry the Emperor's Hand?  Where?  Where have you even been?"

        "Please, let's all calm down and discuss this," Han implored.  Luke and Leia stared blaster bolts at each other.  When he thought there was a chance he had their attention, Han turned to his brother-in-law.  "Luke, maybe you should start at the beginning.  Where have you been all this time?"

        Han could see Luke visibly bringing his anger under control, shutting his eyes briefly, then opening them again slowly.

        "On the way to Yavin, our ship was pulled into some kind of spatial anomaly," Luke began, his voice even and low.  "We emerged in an unknown galaxy, with no way to know which direction to head.  We were picked up by a starship, a military exploration vessel.  We stayed with them until we found a way back."

        "You called Mara your wife," Han prompted, trying to elicit more details without upsetting him.

        "We were married on the starship," he said simply, his eyes never leaving Leia's face.  "And we had a baby there."

        "That can't possibly be a legal marriage," Leia stated coldly.  "We'll have it annulled."

        Oh, no, thought Han.  Here we go again.

 

        Meanwhile, Mara tried to distract the children from the anger emanating from their mother and uncle.  She sent waves of calm feelings toward Luke.  *Don't lose your temper, Luke.  She doesn't realize what she's saying.  We have to be patient.*

        "Miss Jade, why are Mom and Uncle Luke so mad?" Anakin spoke for the first time.

        "I guess your mother was just surprised," Mara answered.  "This had to be quite a shock to her."

        "Well, we're surprised, too," Jaina tried to rationalize Mara's answer, "but we're not mad.  I think this is a happy surprise."

        "That's what your Uncle Luke and I thought it would be, too," Mara murmured.

        "Miss Jade?"  It was Jacen this time, eyeing her warily.  "Are you and Uncle Luke married?"

        Mara glanced at their curious faces.  "Why, yes, of course."  Obviously they had the knowledge that it was possible for two people to have a baby without being married.  "So you can call me Aunt Mara," she added.

        "Aunt Mara?" Jaina piped up.  "Can I hold him?" she asked, looking at Dane.

        "Sure, just sit right here on the couch," she invited Jaina, then carefully placed Dane in her waiting arms.  "That's it, just keep your arm behind his head."

        "What's his name?" Jaina asked.

        Mara realized they hadn't even given out that much information yet. 

        "His name is Dane," she smiled, as Dane cooed up at Jaina. 

"And he's almost three standard months old."

        "Where was he born?" Jacen inquired, sensing his new aunt was in a talkative mood.  Except for a brief time on Drall, the children hadn't been around Mara Jade much, but when they had, she's always seemed rather distant to them.

        "He was born on a starship, in another galaxy.  That's where your Uncle Luke and I were married, too."

        "Is that where you've been?  In another galaxy?" Jacen continued.

        "Yes, we didn't know how to get home," Mara explained as simply as she could.

        "So how did you get home?" Jacen asked, still not satisfied.  Mara had forgotten how many questions children could have.

        "A very powerful being, with a lot of magic, sent us home."  Mara could read Jacen's next question forming on his lips.  "Yes, Jacen, more powerful than your Uncle Luke."

 

        In the kitchen, Han was having his hands full playing referee between the two Jedi.  Thoughts of darksiders ran through his head, as he realized what a precarious position he was in.

       

        "Our marriage is perfectly legal," Luke was saying, his voice still low and menacing.  "Mara is my wife, and I love her."

        "Then get out of my home," Leia countered, looking like a coiled viper.  "I don't even know you anymore.  I wish you'd never come back."

        Luke didn't say a word, he just stormed out.  Leia headed the opposite direction, going out the rear entrance.  Han wasn't sure whom to follow, but finally decided it was his own kids in the common room who would need him the most.

 

        Mara rose as Luke approached.

        "We're leaving," he announced flatly, his voice allowing no room for discussion.  Mara took Dane back from Jaina and quickly gathered up their cloaks.  Luke was shouldering their satchel just as Han entered.

        "Luke, can't we talk this out?" he made one last attempt.

        Luke paused at the door.  "We're not welcome here.  I'm sorry, Han."

        Mara glanced sadly at the bewildered expressions on the children's faces, then followed Luke into the corridor.  Han stood at the doorway.

        "Where will you go?" he asked.

        "I don't know," was Luke's only reply.  He then made a slight gesture, and he and his family disappeared from sight.

        Han sighed and turned back into the room, wondering how he was going to explain all this to his three waiting children.

 

        Luke and Mara made their way out of the palace in silence, hidden from view by Luke.  Once outside the gates, they moved toward the public slideway system.  In a secluded area they reappeared, though their appearances were slightly changed with

Force disguises.

        "Where are we headed?" Mara finally broke the silence.

        Luke shrugged.  "Any suggestions?"

        "We can go to my apartment.  The cleaning droid should have kept the dust down."

        "Okay," Luke agreed, then lapsed once more into stillness.

        "You knew it would be a shock for her," Mara broached the subject that weighed heavily on both their minds.  "She's feeling confused, and threatened.  She probably feels she's still lost you, this time to me."

        "That's no excuse for what she... what she called you.  You and Dane."

        Mara slipped one hand under Luke's arm.  "Hon, I've been called worse.  It's all right."

        "It is NOT all right," Luke snapped back, then sighed, raised her hand and kissed it.

        "I'm sorry, love.  I was just looking forward to coming back so much, and now, now I don't know what's going to happen."

        "Whatever happens, we'll get through it together."

 

        They soon arrived at Mara's apartment building.  No one paid them any attention as they reached her door.  Mara punched in her security code, but the 'Invalid Code' sign flashed.  She tried it again, certain she remembered the right code, but received the same response.

        "I don't understand.  I'm sure this is the right sequence,"  Mara said, puzzled.

        "Mara, there's someone inside," Luke advised her.

        Just then, the door flew open and a large burly humanoid glared at them.

        "What's goin' on out here?!" he bellowed.  "You tryin' to break in?"

        "Who are you?" Mara shot back, "and what are you doing in my apartment?"

        "Your apartment?" the man snarled.  "This is MY apartment, sister."

        "But, but..." Mara stammered.

        Luke gently touched her arm, then addressed the occupant.  "Sir, how long have you had this apartment?"

        "Nearly eight standard months," he growled back.  "What's it your business?"

        Luke remained unflappable.  "This had been my wife's apartment," he explained.  "We've been away a long time..."

        "I don't know nuthin' about that," the man retorted.  "I heard the last person that lived here is dead."

        Mara was trying to peer around the man.

        "Where's my belongings?" she demanded.

        "Listen, lady, this place was empty when I rented it.  Now leave me alone."  With that, the door swished shut.

 

        "How far ahead did you have your rent paid up?" Luke asked Mara.

        "A couple months," she replied sullenly.  "I figured I'd be back from Yavin by then."

        "Well, it's clear they put it back up for rent after you quit paying.  Someone must know where your things are.  We could ask some of your neighbors."

        Mara looked embarrassed.  "I never got to know any of my neighbors.  I was gone more than I was here."

        "We could try the manager."

        Mara shook her head.  "It doesn't matter.  I didn't have much anyway.  We just need someplace to stay tonight."

        "I suppose we can get a hotel room, but we'll need some credits."  Luke shouldered their bag.  "Let's go find a money center."

 

        Luke and Mara walked to the nearest banking kiosk, a few blocks away.  When she tried to withdraw a credit voucher, however, she received the same response as at her apartment -- ACCESS DENIED.  When she punched in an inquiry, the answer came

back -- ACCOUNTHOLDER DECEASED - ACCOUNT FROZEN.

        "Let me try mine," Luke suggested, though he didn't hold out much hope.  However, the response he received was slightly different -- ACCOUNT CLOSED.

        "At least it sounds like your money is still there.  They probably gave mine to Leia."

        "Lot of good it does us, until we are declared no longer dead," Mara frowned.  "This is just great."

        "So, now what?" Luke asked.  "We could track down Lando, or Wedge, or Karrde.  Somebody."

        Mara shook her head.  "Let's just go back to the ship.  We can stay there tonight."

        Luke put his arm around Mara's shoulders.  "It'll be all right.  As long as we're together, remember?"

        Mara shifted Dane on her shoulder and gave Luke a smile.  "As long as we're together," she repeated.

 

        Later that evening, Han slipped out of the palace, telling the kids he had some business to take care of.  Leia was holed up in her office, refusing to speak to him, claiming he was taking Luke's side in what she saw as a disaster.

        As he made his way into the spaceport, whom should Han run into but Lando Calrissian.

        "Han, ol' buddy," Lando greeted him jovially.  "What are you doing out this way?  The Falcon isn't docked here."

        "Well, uh, I'm coming to see someone, if they're even here," Han answered uncertainly.

        "Who?"

        Han hesitated.  He didn't think Lando would have any objection to Luke and Mara being married, even though he had pursued Mara himself some time back.  And the kid and his new wife would probably like to see a friendly face.

        "C'mon along, and you'll see."

 

        Han and Lando made their way across the docking bays, when Lando suddenly looked up and stopped in his tracks.

        "That's... that's...," he sputtered, "the Jade's Fire."  He looked wide-eyed at Han's lop-sided grin.

        "Yeah, it is.  Let's see if anyone is home."

 

        Mara had finished feeding Dane and was rocking him in the lounge, when Luke looked up.

        "Han's coming toward the ship," he announced, "and he has someone with him."

        "Lando," Mara put in, feeling their presence also.

        "Our first visitors," Luke half-joked, as he got up to answer the banging on the hatch.

 

        "Well, I'll be a wampa's uncle," Lando exclaimed, as Luke appeared at the top of the ramp.  He grabbed Luke in a Wookiee-sized hug.  "I can't believe it."

        "That's the general sentiment of the day," Luke murmured.  "It's good to see you, Lando."

        Han noticed Luke was dressed in loose-fitting clothing and led them quietly into the ship in his stocking feet.

        "You weren't going to bed already, were you?" Han asked.

        "No, no," Luke laughed.  "Just wasn't expecting company."

 

        They entered the lounge, where Mara still sat holding Dane in the rocking chair the Voyager crew had given them.

        "My, you're looking very maternal this evening, Mara," Han observed.

        Mara looked at the shocked Lando.  "You'd better close your mouth, Calrissian, or bugs could fly in," she quipped.

        "You're alive too, and you brought a baby back with you!" Lando exclaimed.

        "We weren't going to just leave him there," Mara answered smartly.

        "What's going on here?" Lando looked at each of them.  "Han?"

        "Hey, I'm here for some more answers myself," Han shot back.  "And for a chance to hold my new nephew."

        Mara rose, smiling, and indicated her just-vacated seat.  "Then you must sit in Dane's throne," she laughed.

        "Nephew?" Lando exclaimed.  "Would somebody please tell me what's going on?"

        Mara handed Dane to Han, then snuggled up close to Luke on an adjacent couch.

        "Have a seat, Lando," Luke invited.  "This could take awhile."

 

        Luke and Mara took turns describing their unexpected arrival in the Delta Quadrant, being picked up by Voyager, their subsequent marriage, Dane's birth, and ending with their return to Coruscant.

        "Well, incredible as your story sounds," commented Lando, "knowing you two, I believe it could happen.  But what I don't understand is, why are you still on your ship instead of at the palace?"  Lando glanced at Han, then back at Luke.  "I wouldn't think Leia would want you out of her sight."

        After a few moments' silence, Luke finally spoke, his arm firmly around Mara.  "She was happy to see me, up until she found out Mara and I are... together.  That upset her greatly."  Mara took Luke's hand and squeezed it gently.

        "Leia doesn't view me as a suitable partner for her brother," Mara added.

        "She'll get over it," Han encouraged.  "You just have to give her time."

        Luke and Mara didn't answer.  They could both feel Leia's continued anger and hurt.

 

        "I wasn't sure you'd be on the Fire when I headed over here," Han went on.  "I thought maybe you would find a hotel room or someplace else to stay."

        Luke shrugged.  "It's hard to get a room when you don't have any credits."

        "And it's hard to get credits when all your accounts are frozen because everyone thinks you're dead," Mara added.  "And you find out there's some stranger living in your apartment."

        "And we didn't feel like bothering anyone else," Luke continued.  "So we just came back here.  We're doing fine."

        "Bothering?!" Lando exclaimed.  "You should have come straight to me.  I'll be glad to help."

        "And you know I'd give you anything you need," Han added.

        "Thanks, both of you, but we're comfortable here.  This is our home for now," Luke explained.

        "Well, one member of your family is so comfortable he fell asleep," Han noted, looking at the slumbering child in his arms.

        Luke laughed quietly.  "I'll put him in bed," he said, as he effortlessly took Dane from Han.

       

        Han followed Luke back to the cabins.  "You handle him pretty well," Han noted, as Luke changed Dane's diaper and tucked him into his crib.

        "I've had nearly three months to practice," Luke replied, as he stroked Dane's hair, sending him feelings of comfort.

        "Well, you and Mara seem to make pretty good parents, for two people I never thought would ever get married, much less to each other."

        "We're very happy together," Luke said as he straightened up, "and overjoyed to have Dane.  I don't think either of us knew what happiness was until we finally admitted we were in love with one another.  Mara's not just my wife, Han, she's my life.  I love her with every breath I take."

        Luke sighed and leaned against the bulkhead.  "I tried so hard to get us home, Han."  He raised a hand when Han started to interrupt.  "I know, I know, try not, do or do not.  Well, I did not.  The great Jedi Master couldn't even find his way home.  I had to rely on someone else, who just blinked his eyes and sent us home."

        "Luke, buddy, no one expects you to be able to do everything."

        "So Mara reminds me."  Luke stuck his hands in his pockets.  "I felt so guilty, I drove her crazy some days."

        "Guilty?  For what?"

        "For being happy.  For having fun while all of you were mourning us.  For not getting us home."

        "Luke, that's crazy."

        "I've been called crazy before.  Han, I had visions of Leia, of you and the kids.  Even though I couldn't feel your presence, I knew how you felt.  And I couldn't do a damn thing about it."

        Luke leaned his head back and shut his eyes.  "And now Leia hates me for it."

        "She doesn't hate you.  She just needs time to adjust.  She loves you, Luke, she always will.  I think she loves you more than she loves me."

        At that Luke opened his eyes.  "I'm sorry, Han.  I'm so sorry.  Maybe we shouldn't have come back.  Maybe everyone would have been better off if we'd just stayed dead."

        "You're talking nonsense.  Luke, I'm not jealous.  I never have been."  Han gave him a grin.  "Well, maybe a little, before I found out you were her brother.  Look, you're my best friend, besides Chewie.  But you're as stubborn and thick-headed as your sister."

        "Hence the term 'twins'."  Luke finally cracked a small smile.

        "Maybe you could talk to Leia," Han said hopefully.  "You have that way of changing people's minds."

        "Not this time, Han.  Leia doesn't want to talk to me," Luke sighed again.  "We're going to Yavin tomorrow.  Maybe when we come back."

        "You're leaving already?  You just got here."

        "I need to check on the Academy."  Luke looked up at Han.  "There still is an Academy, I hope?"

        "Sure.  All your teachers are still there, as far as I know.  Oh, Kyp's declared himself a Jedi Master.  Actually, the Senate pressured him into it.  They thought the galaxy needed to have a Jedi Master, and Kyp was the front-runner."

        "Hmm.  Well, Kyp was ready," Luke mused, then fell silent.

        "It's getting late, we should be going," Han finally said.

        Luke just nodded, and followed Han back out to the lounge.  Lando rose as they entered.

 

        "I was just telling Mara how I knew all along she and Luke made a good couple," Lando bragged.

        "Yeah, yeah, Lando's a real psychic," Mara laughed.  She got up and slipped her arm around Luke's waist.  She had felt his frustration from a few moments earlier.

        "Lando, how about we let these lovebirds get to sleep?" Han said, then turned to Luke and Mara.  "You sure we can't put you up in a hotel?"

        "No, no," Luke smiled wanly.  "We're settled in for the night.  And like I said, we're leaving tomorrow."

        "Well, you call me if you need anything," Han insisted.

        "We will," Mara promised.  She then slipped a small holovid into Han's hand.

        "What's this?" he asked.

        "Just something we brought back for you and Leia.  Maybe you'll enjoy it, anyway."

        "Uh, thanks," Han murmured, then lowered his voice as Luke was talking to Lando.  "Mara, it's going to take him awhile..."

        "I know," she whispered back, then winked at Han.  "Believe it or not, I've learned patience while we were gone.  I'll help him."

        Mara gave Han a hug.  "Something tells me you're going to have a harder time than I am," she added.

        Mara turned and gave Lando a goodbye hug as he and Luke approached.

        Han gave them a sad smile.  "Take care, you two.  And come back soon."

        "Will do," Luke replied, as he shook Han's, then Lando's hand.

 

        After their visitors' departure, Mara cupped Luke's face in her hands.  "Luke, sweetheart, you can't blame yourself for Leia's actions.  We haven't done anything wrong."

        Luke kissed his wife tenderly.  "I'm so lucky to have you.  Let's go to bed.  It's been a long day."

 

        As Mara lay in their bunk, one arm draped around her husband, many thoughts were running through her mind.  How could Leia treat her beloved brother so poorly?  She didn't care what Leia thought of her, but Luke didn't deserve this.  Maybe, Mara thought, if I go to Leia tomorrow, beg her to...

        "Mara, don't," came Luke's voice beside her.  "Neither of us is going groveling for forgiveness."

        "You're supposed to be asleep."

        "So are you."

        Mara sighed deeply, then thought with annoyance that this was one of Luke's habits she had picked up.

        "Lando said Karrde is due back to Coruscant anytime now," Mara began, wanting to change the subject.  "I'd like to see him before we leave."

        "Of course," Luke mumbled, shifting to a more comfortable position.  "We'll wait until you can see him."  Luke shifted again.  "You know, this bunk wasn't designed for two people."

        "Good thing we're both small," Mara observed.

        "Good thing we weren't here three or four months ago," Luke returned, which elicited a swat from Mara, remembering how uncomfortable she was toward the end of her pregnancy.

 

        Just then, a whimper sounded from across the room.

        "He can't be hungry already," Mara murmured.  "Let's wait and see if he goes back to sleep."

        Dane, however, took his parents' inaction as a reason to cry that much louder.

        "I'll get him," Luke mumbled sleepily as he crawled out of bed.  He picked up his wailing son and held him close.  "Hey, Dane, what's the matter?" he whispered.

        "Check his diaper," Mara suggested.

        After a moment the answer came back, "Clean and dry.  And I don't sense that he's hungry, more like he's scared, or upset."  Luke gently rubbed his back, sending his son feelings of comfort.

        "It's the ship," Mara said suddenly, as inspiration hit her.  "We're not on the ship."

        "Honey, we're on a ship."

        "But we're not moving.  He's used to the feel of Voyager traveling through space.  He's never slept anywhere else."

        "Could be," Luke conceded.  "How 'bout it, Dane?  Do you miss Voyager?  I'm kinda missing it myself tonight."

        Dane quieted down as Luke stood rocking him back and forth.  Moments after Luke laid him back in his crib, however, the wailing resumed.

        "Do you want me to try?" Mara offered.

        "No, you go on to sleep.  We'll take a walk," Luke replied, as he picked up his son once more.  "I doubt I'll be able to sleep tonight anyway."

 

        So Luke and Dane explored every nook and cranny of the ship, from the galley to the cargo hold and back again.  Dane was satisfied as long as they kept moving.  Eventually they made their way to the rocking chair in the lounge.

        "Well, Dane, today's homecoming didn't go quite the way I anticipated," Luke mused, as Dane cooed to the sound of his father's soothing voice.  "I thought sure your Aunt Leia would be overjoyed to meet you."  He leaned over and kissed the top of his son's head.  "I guess it's just going to take her awhile to get used to the idea."

        The gentle rocking motion eventually lulled Dane to sleep, followed soon thereafter by his father.  Which is how Mara found them the next morning, Luke stretched out in the rocker clutching Dane against his chest, both sound asleep.

        Mara shook Luke's shoulder.  "Luke, wake up!"

        "What?" Luke mumbled.

        "Wake up.  What are you doing, sleeping like this?  You could have dropped him!" Mara chastised her husband.

        "I didn't drop him," Luke grumbled.

        Mara shook her head and picked the now awake Dane up out of Luke's arms.  "C'mon, sweetie.  Let's get you some breakfast."

 

        "Lando buzzed this morning and said Karrde landed during the night," Mara said over her shoulder.

        "That's nice," Luke said absent-mindedly as he fixed himself a cup of caf.

        "I thought I'd go see him right after Dane and I finish our breakfast."

        "That's nice," Luke repeated, yawning.

        Mara looked at him strangely.  "Then I thought I'd go rob a banking center and get us some credits."

        "That's nice," came the answer.  Luke looked up and winked.  "I'm awake, I'm awake," he teased.  "I promise not to drop him while you're gone, either."

        Mara gazed at her husband's twinkling blue eyes and youthful grin.  "You're in a better mood this morning," she remarked.

        Luke shrugged.  "Sitting around feeling sorry for myself isn't going to do anybody any good.  Despair can lead to the dark side."

        Luke walked behind Mara, and began massaging her shoulders.  "I have the most gorgeous wife in any galaxy and a wonderful son.  I'm not going to let this temporary rift with Leia affect my family's happiness."

        He leaned over and nuzzled her neck.

        "Some more of that and we'll be expanding that family," Mara laughed.

        "Okay by me," Luke acquiesced, as he licked her ear.

        Suddenly Luke straightened, as a frown crossed his face.  "Leia is coming toward the ship."

        Mara nodded.  "I don't sense any anger from her."

        Luke squeezed Mara's shoulder, then moved toward the hatchway.  As he lowered the ramp, Leia approached tentatively.

        "Hello, Leia," Luke said evenly.

        "Luke," she nodded in response.  "I ... I wanted to talk to you ... you and Mara."

        Luke gazed at her.  "Come in," he finally said, promising himself he would not lose his temper.  He thought of the conversation he had just had with Mara only moments before.

 

        Luke led Leia into the lounge.  Leia hesitated as she saw Mara nursing the baby.

        "Come in, Leia," Mara said warmly.  "Forgive me if I don't get up."

        "Thank you," Leia answered uncertainly, as she sensed Mara's genuine graciousness.  She looked between Luke and Mara, then took a seat.  Luke sat close to Mara, keeping silent.

        "Luke, Mara," the former Princess began, "I've ... come to apologize for my behavior yesterday.  There's no excuse for the things I said.  I don't expect you to forgive me.  I was just hoping we could, well,...”

        Luke leaned over and touched Leia's hand.  "Leia, it's all right.  We understand."

        "Leia, we're sorry we hurt you," Mara added.  "We know the last fifteen months have been incredibly difficult for you.  And then we just sweep in out of the blue, with a baby, and announce we're married.  It had to be a shock."

        "Yes, it was," Leia admitted.

        "It was rather surprising to us, too, and we were there," Luke laughed lightly.  He glanced at Mara, then back at Leia.  "Leia, let's forget about yesterday.  We'll put it behind us, and start over."

        "I'd like that, Luke," Leia said, tears of relief spilling down her cheeks.  She and Luke both rose and embraced in a long overdue reunion.

        Mara had finished feeding Dane by then, and stood up uncertainly.

        "Luke," she touched his arm softly, "I did want to see Talon this morning.  Perhaps you and Leia would like some time alone together?"

        Luke smiled.  "Sure, go ahead.  I'll take care of Dane."

 

        Luke cradled Dane easily in one arm as Mara excused herself to change clothes.

        "Leia, I'd like you to meet my son, Dane Skywalker," he grinned proudly.

        "He's beautiful, Luke," she congratulated him.

        Luke gave a jestful frown.  "Handsome, not beautiful.  Did I ever call your boys beautiful?"

        "No, you just called them holy terrors.  May I?"  Leia held out her arms.

        Luke looked down at his gurgling offspring.  "Dane, this is your Aunt Leia.  Don't spit up on her too bad."

        "Oh, Luke, don't you think I've ever been spit up on by a baby?"

        "I suspect Winter has more than you," Luke shot back, instantly regretting his words.

        Just then, Mara reappeared.

        "I'll try not to be long," she assured Luke.

        "Take your time," Luke responded.  "We'll be fine."

        "I know," she smiled at Luke.  He gave her a gentle goodbye kiss, and squeezed her hand.

        *Everything will be fine now, sweetheart,* she sent to him, glancing at Leia who was stroking Dane's cheek.

        *Yes it will, Mara, yes it will.*

 

        After Mara left, Luke sat down next to Leia.

        "I'm sorry for the crack about Winter," he apologized.  "I know you wanted to spend more time with the kids when they were little."

        "And who's idea was it to send them away?"

        "Mine.  And it was a mistake.  Children belong with their parents."

        "The voice of experience?" Leia chided him.

        "I guess so."  He looked at Leia intently.  "Leia, falling in love with Mara is the best thing that's ever happened to me.  I love her so much.  She and I are so close, we've become one. We've bonded through the Force."

        He exhaled slowly.  "It's the most incredible feeling, Leia.  She completes me."

        Leia could see the joy glistening in his eyes.  She reached out and grasped his hand.

        "I'm so happy for you, Luke.  And Mara has changed so much.  You must be a good influence on her."

        Luke gave her a strange look.  "Mara's not so different, not really.  She's always been a caring, loving person deep down.  She just kept it bottled up inside of her."

        "If you say so," Leia replied, not quite believing him, but not wanting to start a disagreement.  "All I know is, you seem to be good for each other."

        Leia shifted Dane to the other shoulder.  "The whole time you were gone, Luke, I only thought of myself, how lonely I was without you.  I was angry at you for abandoning me.  And then when you showed up with Mara, and proclaimed you and her had a baby together, all I could think of was that you did this to spite me.  I was jealous of her, Luke.  I didn't want to believe you could be closer to anyone than you were to me."

        "I thought we weren't going to talk about yesterday," Luke interjected.

        "I need to, Luke.  I need to get this out in the open."

        "So what happened to change your mind?"

        "The holovid."

        "What holovid?"

        "Your holovid.  Han said Mara gave it to him."

        "Oh, that one."

        "I caught Han watching it in the middle of the night, when he thought I was asleep.  At first I was upset, then I found myself watching it too.  I even made him start over at the beginning.  As I sat there, I realized I wasn't looking at a Jedi

Master and a former Imperial.  I saw a man and a woman deeply in love, a newlywed couple having fun together, new parents overjoyed at the birth of their child.  I haven't thought of you as a regular person since... since before Bespin."

      Luke sat forward, his face intent.  "I wanted so much for you to be there, to share those moments with us.  We even considered waiting to get married until we returned, but we weren't sure when, or if, that would ever happen."

        "That would have been a long wait.  You did right to go on with your life."

        "I'm so sorry to have caused you such sadness, Leia," Luke apologized.  "We tried and tried to get back.  Not a day went by that I didn't ask myself, what could I be doing different?   What am I overlooking?"  He took Leia's hand in his own.  "I couldn't sense your presence, but I knew you were hurting, because I was too."

        "Luke," Leia soothed, rocking Dane, "I know you did everything you could to get back to us.  I'm sure that if there were any way you could have avoided going into that anomaly, you would have.  But it happened and it's over, and now you're back with us."

        Luke's expression changed while Leia was speaking.  Silently he rose, facing away from his sister.

        "Luke?"

        "I was selfish, Leia," he said quietly.

        "What do you mean?  You couldn't help being there."

        "No, but..."

        Leia noticed he was clenching and unclenching his right hand, a nervous habit of his, she remembered.

        Still not looking at her, he finally continued, his voice near breaking.  "Q had the power to send us back to the same point in time as when we left.  It would have been as if the last fifteen months had never happened.  But I didn't... I

couldn't..."

        "Luke,"  Leia came up behind him, still holding her new nephew.

        He turned his head and looked at her with sorrow in his eyes.  "I felt so guilty the whole time we were gone.  I knew how my disappearance was affecting you.  I could have spared you all that heartache.  But I was selfish.  I didn't want to lose what Mara and I had together.  I didn't want to lose my son."

        Leia started to speak, but he cut her off.  "I knew there was every chance in the universe that Mara and I would have fallen in love all over again, and had a baby again.  But I was afraid."  Tears were welling up in his eyes.  "I didn't want to take that chance.  I put my own desires above everything else."

        He turned away again.  "I'm so sorry, Leia.  I'm so sorry."

        Leia yanked him around, an incredulous look on her face. "Listen to me.  Never think that.  I can't believe you could have even considered possibly losing this precious child, just to protect my feelings."  She reached up and cupped his face.  "My dear, dear brother, I've never seen you so contented as I have today.  You deserve this happiness, Luke, you and Mara both.  I'm so ashamed I tried to spoil it for you."

        "Try not," he smiled weakly.

        Leia swatted at him.  "How does Mara put up with you?"

        "I'm not sure.  You'll have to ask her."  He hugged her warmly.  "How can I be so fortunate?  The two most wonderful women in the galaxy, and I'm related to both of them."

      Leia only smiled.  Yes, things were going to be fine.

 

        Leia stayed several more hours, then talked Luke into coming back to the palace with her, where Mara met them and Han for lunch.  They laughed over Mara's recounting of how Karrde nearly fell out of his chair when she walked in.

        "I should have brought Dane with me, he probably would have fainted dead away," she said jokingly.  "By the way, Luke, he insists we join him for dinner sometime.  Perhaps tomorrow?"

        "We're leaving for Yavin tomorrow," Luke replied.

        Mara glanced over at Leia, then back to Luke.  "I thought now that...”

        "I need to check on the Academy," Luke said adamantly.

        "But, Luke, you can't leave this soon!  You just got here," Leia insisted.

        "We could delay Yavin a few days," Mara joined in.

        "So now you two are going to gang up on me?"

        "Welcome to married life, kid," Han quipped.

        Luke just shook his head in defeat.

 

        Three days later, the Skywalkers were preparing the Jade's Fire for take-off.

        "Feels familiar, doesn't it?"

        "I just hope we make it all the way this time."

        "Oh, I don't know, last time didn't turn out so bad."

        Nevertheless, as they approached the coordinates of their fateful disappearance, Luke and Mara stood on the bridge, staring out the front viewport into the nothingness of hyperspace.  Luke wrapped his arms around his wife and held her close.

        "We're past," he finally whispered.

        "You realize dozens of ships have traveled this same route after us without any trouble," Mara pointed out.

        "I know."

        "And those wormhole things could pop up anywhere, anytime."

        "I know," he repeated, kissing the top of her head.  "We're going to make it to Yavin this time, Mara."

        "Do you ever wonder what would have happened if we'd made it the first time?  Between us, I mean?"

        Luke turned Mara around to face him, staring into her deep green eyes.  "I still would have fallen in love with you, Mara.  Perhaps it wouldn't have happened so quickly, but it would've happened.  I'm certain of it."

        Mara leaned forward and kissed him lightly.  "So am I."

 

        They reached orbit over Yavin without incident, and radioed in the ship's call number, with a request for permission to land.

        "I didn't recognize that voice," Luke commented, as they received clearance.

        "Han and Leia said there were a lot of new students here.  And you're the one who didn't want to let them know we're alive and on our way."

 

        After they touched down, Luke and Mara donned their Jedi cloaks, hoods up.  Mara carried Dane, with Luke carrying their small satchel, mostly filled with baby necessities.  This time, however, Dane was wide awake and able to see where he was going.  Though Luke and Mara kept their son hidden while on Coruscant, they had no qualms about his safety here on Yavin.

        At the bottom of the ramp, Luke paused to drink in the sight, sounds, and feel of the abundant life that covered the moon.  "How I've missed this place," he murmured.

        "Feels pretty good to me, too," Mara agreed.  "If it just wasn't so humid."

        Luke grinned under his hood, and turned to face a young Jedi student striding across the landing pad.

 

        "Greetings," the young Calamarian welcomed them, bowing slightly.  "I am Jedi Denkiri.  How may I be of service?"

        "Greetings to you," Luke nodded in reply.  "I am Luke, and this is my wife Mara.  We have come to see Kyp Durran.  We are old friends of his."

        "Master Durran is in the Great Hall, addressing the students."

        The young Jedi trainee was about to ask their last name, when strangely enough, he forgot.  "I shall take you there."

        *Feeling playful, are we?* Luke heard in his mind.

        *I'd like to observe Kyp's oratory skills is all, without making a scene.*

        *Sure, sure.  I noticed how you cloaked our presence as soon as we reached orbit.*

        Luke just lifted a corner of his hood to give her a smile as they trailed behind their guide.

        As they entered the back of the Great Hall, Luke tapped Jedi Denkiri.  "We shall wait back here until the assembly is concluded.  We do not wish to disturb anyone."

        "Very well," came the trainee's reply.

 

        So the small Skywalker family remained incognito, taking seats at the rear of the hall.  Kyp talked at length on the raised dais, going over several aspects of the Force to his attentive audience.

        *He seems to be doing pretty well,* Luke sent.

        *I'll admit, he has come a long way since I first met him, thanks to you.*

        Luke's eyes swept across the mostly unfamiliar students. 

        *Your students must have all graduated while we were gone.*

        *Apparently.*

 

        After Kyp's speech, Tionne gave a brief presentation on one of the many chapters of Jedi history, then concluded with a ballad.

        Mara looked down at her now slumbering son.  *She's going to make a great babysitter.  Put him right to sleep.*

 

        Luke and Mara stayed in their places as the assembly ended.  The students mingled, discussing that day's lessons.  The teachers remained up front, talking amongst themselves.

        Luke rose, gesturing for Mara to join him.  He dissolved their Force shield as they walked toward the front.

        Kyp and Streen both looked up sharply at nearly the same time.

        "I feel..." Kyp began, looking around in confusion.

        The other teachers as well began to sense the presence of their former master, though only Kirana Ti spoke what they all were thinking.  "It's not possible.  It must be some kind of trick."

        By then, Kyp had spotted the two cloaked figures coming down the aisle.  He walked slowly toward them, not daring to hope, then broke into a run when Luke pulled back his hood and flashed him a wide smile.  The two old friends embraced in a hug that would have made a Wookiee proud.

        "Luke!" Kyp cried.  "I don't believe it."

        "Didn't I teach you better than that," Luke laughed.  He turned to greet Streen, Kam, Tionne, and the rest of his friends.

 

        "Who is that?" a student asked Denkiri.  The Calamarian blinked his huge eyes.  "An old friend of Master Durran, here for a visit."

        "He looks familiar somehow," another student put in.

 

        Mara pulled her hood back also, letting her red-gold hair spill out over her shoulders.

        "Mara Jade!" Tionne exclaimed, then fixed her wide-eyed gaze on the sleeping infant.

        "Everyone," Luke got their attention, "this is our son.  Mara and I are married."

        Luke and Mara were instantly inundated with questions and congratulations.

 

        Both Kyp and Luke noticed the puzzlement flowing through the student body.  Kyp took Luke by the elbow and cajoled him into accompanying him to the dais.  The students had never seen Master Durran act so animated.

        "Students, we have a wonderful surprise today.  May I present to you Jedi Master Luke Skywalker."

        Ripples of disbelief echoed throughout the room.

        "I thought he was dead."

        "He does look like his holos."

        "He's not smiling like that in any of them, though."

        Silence fell, however, as Luke began to speak, his soft voice filling the entire chamber.  The sense of peace and calm surrounding him was overwhelming.

        "My friends and fellow Jedi," he began.  "I am overjoyed to be back among you.  With me are my wife, Mara, and our son, Dane.  I'm sure you were all told that Mara and I were lost and presumed dead, but as you can see, the reports of our deaths were greatly exaggerated."  Luke paused briefly, as a small ripple of laughter escaped the normally impassive Jedi.  "I can see that Master Durran and your other instructors have done an exemplary job in upholding the ideals of this academy.  In the days ahead, I hope to meet all of you individually."

        Luke raised one hand in a sort of blessing.  "Until then, may the Force be with all of you."

        Applause filled the Great Hall.

        The Skywalkers and the teachers finally made their way to a nearby lounge.  Luke and Mara patiently and humorously related their tale.

 

        Eventually Luke and several of the others brought their luggage and portable crib from the ship and placed them in Luke's old room.  The Jedi hadn't disturbed any of Luke's belongings after his disappearance, declaring the room off-limits to everyone.

        "I hope you weren't considering this some kind of memorial shrine," Luke joked to them.

        "I don't know, it's as stuffy as a tomb in here," Mara complained good-naturedly.

        Several of them cooperated in airing out the small chamber, and that night Luke and Mara settled in, in 'their' room.

 

        Luke awoke first the next morning and lay in bed, listening to the singing birds and other jungle sounds of daybreak.

        Mara stirred next to him on the narrow pallet.  "We're going to have to get a regular bed in here," she muttered.  "And I get to redecorate."

        "You're willing to stay on Yavin?"

        Mara rose on one elbow, and nodded yes.  "I knew as soon as we stepped off the ship.  This is where we belong."

        Luke kissed Mara gratefully.  "We don't have to live in the Great Temple, you know," he commented.

        "Where else would we live?  All the smaller temples are in ruins."

        Luke got an excited gleam in his eye.  He jumped out of bed, dragging Mara with him. 

        "Put on a robe and shoes," he instructed her, as he did the same.  He picked up the still sleeping Dane and pulled Mara out the doorway by the hand.

        "Where are we going?" Mara questioned, jogging to keep up.

        "You'll see."

 

        They exited the temple and crossed one of the few open clearings nearby.  Finally Luke halted in a small glade.  Mara looked around in wonder.

        "It's beautiful here," she praised.

        "Isn't it?  There's a great view of the mountains, and it's within walking distance of the temple."  He turned to Mara.  "Sweetheart, we can build a cottage here, a real home for us."

        Luke's jubilant expression was contagious.

        "Yes, Luke, yes."  She kissed him warmly.  "We're home, farmboy.  We're finally home."

                

       

                                THE END