Obi Wan and Padme Story
Fighting For Series

“The Peace Treaty, Romance & Surprise Decisions”

Summary

When Obi Wan and Padme rescued their daughter, Princess Kiara and Obi Wan’s brother and the Head Royal guard Anakin from the witches, they thought they’d never have to deal with any of them again with many of them dead or fled into the forests.

Neither of them expected one of the witches to have been a long lost Princess now Queen of her kingdom, Queen Aurelia. She has come to their kingdom to find allies for her kingdom, Obi Wan and Padme are unsure and wary even with Anakin and Kiara’s defence that she helped them towards the end. Padme isn’t quite sure she wants a peace treaty with a former witch and knows she needs to think of her kingdom.

However, she is aware of Aurelia’s love for her Royal Guard Anakin. Anakin hasn’t loved anyone since he was in love with Padme all those years ago. Jacen and Kiara already saw them kiss and are now fearful that they are losing their uncle. With his new feelings, Anakin is quite sure what to do - his loyalty to his Head Guard role or following his heart, however, can he be a King?

How will Obi Wan and Padme react when they discover Anakin and Aurelia’s relationship and will Anakin follow his heart and will Jacen, Kiara and Lily lose their uncle to love?

Part of the Fighting For Series: Fighting for Love, Fighting for the Throne, Part 1 , Fighting for the Throne, Part 2, Fighting for Family, Fighting for the Kingdom, Fighting for Freedom.

Chapter 1

The large, tall green trees provided the perfect shade and cover as Queen Aurelia moved down the pebble pathways through the beautiful lush gardens of the kingdom. Vastly different  from her own kingdom, of course Aurelia had spent most of her life growing up with the witches so she couldn’t remember much about her life before she went with the witches but now she wanted her kingdom to flourish like Queen Padme’s did.

Hopefully that would start with the signing of the peace treaty. It had nearly been a week and Queen Padme was still undecided which made Aurelia nervous slightly but she was distracted by head royal guard Anakin Skywalker who despite their history had taken to showing her around the kingdom and allowing her to join him. Aurelia was making her way down the paths right when stepping out from behind one of the trees, was Anakin, smirking playfully down at her

“Your highness” he bows as Aurelia courtesy “Head Guard” she replies. It was a playful game between them even though they were now on first name basic, they still enjoyed using formal titles together. Anakin moves over towards her taking one of her hands to kiss. “Should you be out alone?’ He asks as she grins “Maybe” she replies before she then feels his arms wrap around her waist.

“A Queen must always be protected” he reminds her seeing her grin wrapping her arms around his neck “I’ve not your typical queen” she replies as he smirks “Definitely not” he admits. It was actually one of the reasons he was finding himself attracted to her. He hadn’t felt like this since he first met Padme and never thought he would again but spending time with her away from the witches seeing her in a new light and her style of leadership reminded him of Padme and there under the trees, Anakin and Aurelia shared another secret kiss - their romance hadn’t been quite discovered.

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Unaware about where her head royal guard and brother in law was, Padme was dealing with yet another advisors meeting over the peace treaty with more of her advisors for the alliance instead of against. Padme reminded them once more “It’s just, how can we be so sure that Queen Aurelia won’t turn on us and use her powers against us to take over the kingdom or her sisters could find her and convince her to turn on us?’ Padme asks as one of the advisors then responded

“Your highness, there have been no sightings of the witches since you liberated their camp and with your brother in law and Princess Kiara have provided valid reasons for her” he points out “Queen Aurelia has been here for nearly a week now, surely she would have turned us on us by now if she was planning to” he explains.

Padme sighs sitting up straighter in her throne. She remained silent taking in what her advisor was telling her but she couldn’t quite bring herself around to the alliance with Aurelia’s kingdom.

“There’s something not right about this” she admits before she gets to her feet as they got to their feet. They bowed as they watched her exit the chamber. “I must find my husband and discuss the matter with him” she explains.

Truthfully, she wanted to see her three children, she had lost three years with her daughter Kiara who was now nine years old and she wanted to spend more time with her sweet princess.

Luckily it was at that moment she noticed her husband coming out of the library holding their five year old daughter Lily’s hand in one hand and Kiara’s hand in the other as Jacen was walking beside Kiara. As she moved closer, she heard Kiara speak

“Daddy, do you think mommy will sign the treaty with Queen Aurelia?’ She asks as Obi Wan shrugs “It’s a big decision and your mother needs to think of all the people in her kingdom to ensure they will be protected and given Queen Aurelia’s history with the witches, it’s not making it an easy decision” he explains as Kiara tilts her head

“But Aurelia was nice towards the end to uncle Ani and I, she helped us and she healed you” she reminds him reminding him of when he got hit with the spear. Obi Wan nods “That’s true but your mother just wants to ensure she doesn’t become our enemy again” he informs her as Jacen smirks “I think uncle Anakin will ensure that doesn’t happen” he mutters causing Obi Wan to look over at his son confused. Little did he know what his young son had already seen..

Flashback - 3 days ago…

Jacen peered open the door into the sitting room finding his uncle Anakin sitting with their guest Queen Aurelia. Jacen noticed something new about his uncle, he was smiling and happy like when he saw his father and his mother together.

“So tell me Anakin?” He hears Aurelia asks his uncle. “Tell me, did you always see yourself as a Head Royal guard?” She asks as Anakin laughs “Actually, no, but then again I didn’t expect to meet a Princess and when I first met Padme, she was hiding her true identity and it was her father who wanted to hold a tournament to find her a husband to protect her”  he explains

“When my brother married Padme, and they asked me, I was honoured to serve them even though I tease about protecting the King” he smirks. Aurelia giggles before she places a hand on his hand. “Well, I think the Royal family is very protected with you” she replies before she then asks “But do you ever think about finding love yourself?” She asks
Anakin smiles “I did, but since becoming the Head Royal guard and an uncle, I hadn’t given it much thought” he admits

He then sees Aurelia moving closer towards him, placing one hand on his cheek. “Not even if you found the right girl?” She asks. Anakin smiles back at her and Jacen felt his eyes’s widen as he saw his uncle and Queen Aurelia surprisingly and suddenly share a romantic kiss in the sitting room!

End of flashback

Lily saw their mother first “Mommy!” She excitedly cries as Obi Wan looks over at her as Kiara and Jacen rush over toward her throwing their arms around her. “My babies, did you have a nice morning with your father?” She asks turning Lily into her arms as Kiara nods. “He was showing us how to use our force abilities” Kiara explains. Padme smiles. Ever since being rescued, both Padme and Obi Wan were nervous about Kiara unlocking her force abilities however after speaking with Anakin, they agreed to have her train with Jacen.

Jacen then speaks up “Kiara’s quite good but I’m better” he boasts as Kiara ignores her brother as Padme placed a hand on her daughter’s face. “You’ve done very well” she tells her as Kiara then lowers her head. “What’s wrong?” She asks her daughter as Kiara sighs. “Uncle Ani was suppose to help with training today but he didn’t show up and since Queen Aurelia’s arrival, he’s been around her” she sniffs. Padme looks to her husband who is silent. It wasn’t lost on them either that Anakin had been spending time with Queen Aurelia however, they also knew that Kiara had formed a stronger bond with her uncle in the three years she was captured by the witches.

“Your uncle is just ensuring that our guest is comfortable during their visit because your father and I have our regular meetings and overseeing the knight training as well looking after you, Jacen and Lily” she explains as Lily rests her head on her mother’s shoulder. “I miss uncle Ani” Lily sniffs as Padme gently kisses her daughter’s forehead.

“Well then let’s go find him and see what it’s up to” she suggests seeing all three of her children smile even more before she takes her husband’s hand in hers and they begin to head down the hallway.

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Meanwhile, still out in the gardens, except now he noticed four of the Queen’s personal royal guards were now watching them, Anakin moved through the gardens with Queen Aurelia, her arm linked through his. “I’ve never seen gardens quite like theses. Not even when I was growing up as a little girl did we have gardens like these” she admits as Anakin nods

“When I first came to Naboo, I had never seen gardens like these before and coming from the Jedi Temple, I would find myself just out here admiring the gardens, although being out here hasn’t always been peaceful” he admits adding “There are times that I’m reminded of the night when Padme’s father, the King was attacked and later killed and even though I protected him, I couldn’t protect him from being stabbed” he admits.

Aurelia takes his hands in hers squeezing them gently. “Queen Padme does not believe you are responsible for what happened and that you fought your best and had always protected her father and you are protecting her family” she reminds him “I watched you each day you were captive with the witches, the protectiveness you had for Kiara. If you hadn’t been there she would be lost” she reminds him

Anakin smiles “You sound like Padme” he replies “Your people are very lucky to have a Queen like you” he admits right at the moment they heard two excited voices “Uncle Ani!” Cried Jacen and Kiara as both Anakin and Aurelia watched as the young prince and princess raced from the palace with their mother, father and little sister following them.

Aurelia watched as Anakin stepped away from her kneeling to catch his niece and nephew in his arms “Well, this is a surprise. Did you tire out your father already?’ He smirks as Jacen grins “He was teaching us how to focus our force abilities” he explains as Kiara then taps his shoulder “Which you missed” she pouted making Anakin laugh “I’m sorry sweet princess. I decided to show our guest around the gardens” he explains looking up at Aurelia before looking back at Kiara

“But I promise I’ll make it up to you” he tells her just as Padme and Obi Wan joined them. “Better not break that promise there brother” Obi Wan tells him as Anakin stands back up as Padme passes Lily to Anakin. “It was very nice of you Anakin to entertain our guest this morning” she says as Anakin looks back at her “The honour was mine” he simply replies as Obi Wan notices the smirk his brother gave Queen Aurelia causing her to blush.

Aurelia then looked over at Padme, the curiosity stirring inside her. “Have you made a decision about the treaty your highness?” She asks. Padme straightens. “Almost” she admits “I know it’s almost been a week but considering my daughter and brother in law were prisoners for three years by the witches you were once part of, you’ll forgive me if I am taking my time on this matter before making such a big decision” she informs her

“Anakin, do you mind looking after the children while I discuss the matter with my husband” she informs him. Anakin nods. “Yes of course” he replies. Padme then turns to Aurelia. “Tonight, I would like to invite you to dinner with us if you wish” she says. Aurelia smiles “That is most kind of you” she replies before she watches Padme and Obi Wan leave then Anakin, with Jacen, Kiara and Lily just as two of her own guards came up to her before she headed back to her quarters.

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Delia, lost everything - her sisters and their prisoners. She had tried to mould Thalia to be like her mother once was but Kiara’s love for her family was too powerful and Aurelia’s surprised betrayal didn’t help.

Delia, after being force pushed completely from the camp, had made her own camp deep within the forest where she still kept watch over her former prisoners and sister. Aurelia was Queen and had set her sights on a treaty with Queen Padme’s kingdom. There was still a chance for her to finish with Shalia and Thalia had started.

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Aurelia sat at the dresser, her thoughts on what Padme had said but also her time with Anakin. If Padme was taking her time with the decision about the treaty, what would she said when she found out about her romance with Anakin? Aurelia had never been in love but yet she found herself thinking about Anakin even as she was suddenly startled by a voice she never wanted to hear again.

“Hello Aurelia” they spoke as she stiffened before she got up from the dresser turning to see Delia, standing before her. “Delia!” She exclaimed “What are you doing here?” She ask “How did you get here without being seen?” She adds as Delia moves over towards her “I have my ways your highness” she says

Aurelia holds her head up high. “You need to leave” she insists “I am a Queen now and no longer a witch” she informs her. Delia placed a hand on her face. “Aurelia, you will always be a witch. You may be a Queen but they will never accept you” she informs her “This treaty will never be signed” she tells her “But we can use this to our advantage. We can finally finish what Shalia and Thalia started” she tells her

Aurelia steps back “Never!” She exclaims. “My people thought they had lost their entire royal family and welcomed me back even when I thought I couldn’t be a Queen” she explains “This treaty will be signed for the protection of my people and for the first time ever, I’m in love and there may be a King” she reveals.

She saw Delia blink in surprise before she chuckles “The guard?’ She asks “Oh my sweet Aurelia, his loyalty to his brother’s family will always take preference” she tells her as Aurelia shakes her head “You don’t know him like I do now. Now leave before I call my guards” she warns

Delia only shakes her head. “You will regret turning your back on me Aurelia” she informs her and with that, she was gone leaving Aurelia alone in her quarters once more. Wondering if she was right but then again, Aurelia knew she couldn’t turn her back on her soon to be new allies, she hoped and most importantly, Anakin.

Chapter 2

When it was time for dinner that evening, Padme had asked Anakin if he and the children, who had been looking after that afternoon. Padme and Obi Wan had been in discussion about the situation with the treaty all afternoon. Sabe and Dorme had dressed the children in their finest clothes before they joined Anakin in heading to the guest quarters.

“Why do we have to escort the Queen to dinner?” Jacen asks Anakin as they arrived outside Aurelia’s quarters. Anakin looks down at his nephew “Your mother thought it would be nice if we escorted her because as Prince and Princesses in this kingdom, you are showing how gracious hosts you are” he explains as Kiara twirls in her dress. “I didn’t think I’d wear one of my dresses again” she admits as Anakin looks over at her “And you look beautiful” he tells her as Lily taps his leg “And me uncle Ani?’ She asks as he laughs “You look beautiful too little princess” he smiles before he turns back to knock on the door.

Minutes later, the door opens and Anakin felt his eyes widen at seeing Aurelia standing before them. Her long brown blondish hair was half up in an elaborate bun with the rest curled past her shoulders and she wore a deep purple plunging dress with a white shawl over her shoulders. “Your highness, you look……” Anakin was at a lost for words as Kiara giggled looking up at her Aurelia.

“You look pretty Queen Aurelia” she tells her as Aurelia smiles down at her. “Thank you Princess” she replies as Jacen straightens “We would like to escort you to dinner” he states as Aurelia was surprised. “Thank you young prince” she smiles just as Anakin held out his arm for her to take seeing her take it. Anakin looks over at his nephew and niece, holding onto Lily in his other arm

“Lead the way” he tells them as they started to move down the hallway. “You do look lovely this evening” he whispers to her as Aurelia blushes “You do look even cuter when you’re speechless” she teases right as Kiara glanced back at her uncle with the Queen. Lily’s head resting on his shoulder. Kiara then glanced at her brother as they remembered what they saw the first day she came to the kingdom

Flashback

Aurelia then let go of his hand “I’m sorry” she softly says starting to turn away as Anakin stops her taking her hand “No, I’m sorry” he admits “It’s just that I’ve never had a woman admit any feelings for me, I was just surprised” he tells her “I’d like to spend time getting to know you” he admits seeing her smile before she felt him gently kiss her, unaware they were being watched.

Jacen and Kiara fall back towards the room where they had ears dropped on their uncle and even though they couldn’t hear much, they saw the surprise kiss! “No, uncle Ani can’t do this, what if he leaves?” Kiara cries as Jacen shakes his head “Uncle Anakin wouldn’t leave us” he assures her as Kiara looks up at her brother “But he kissed her” she points out as Jacen shook his head once more

End of flashback

“Uncle Ani’s in love” she whispers as Jacen shrugs “But he loves us more” he reminds her “It’s just being a good host like mother wants us to be” he reminds her. Kiara glances back at them “He looks like dad does with mom” she points out as Jacen rolls his eyes. “Besides love, uncle Anakin is needed here to protect us” he adds. Kiara said nothing as they continued down the hallway towards the dining hall.

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Already in the dining hall, Padme and Obi Wan waited for their children, Anakin and guest to arrive. Obi Wan looked at his wife once more. “Are you sure you want to announce the news tonight at this dinner?’ He asks. Padme nods. “Yes, it’s why I wanted just to join us tonight” she states “Our discussions this afternoon and your words have stuck with me. It’s a good treaty and her kingdom has struggled for years” she states

“We need more allies in the kingdoms, if we fall under attack again, the more allies we have, the more help that will come” she states. Obi Wan takes her hand in hers. “Yes and I sense there is something my brother is not telling us” he admits as Padme has a thought however it was at that moment the doors to the dining room open before they saw Jacen and Kiara enter the room followed by Anakin and Aurelia, with Lily in his arms and it was then that Obi Wan saw his brother smiling and he sensed a happiness in his brother he hadn’t felt since they first met Padme all those years ago and he realised what his brother was hiding from them.

Anakin was in love and he was in love with Queen Aurelia! Jacen and Kiara took their seats as Anakin helped Lily into her seat as Padme and Obi Wan moved to greet Aurelia once more. “Thank you for joining us for dinner Aurelia” she smiles as Aurelia courtesies “Thank you for having me join your family dinner” she replies “I think you’ll be pleased with what happens tonight” she assures her moving to take their seats.

Aurelia looks over at them “I do thank you for your hospitality during my stay” she confesses taking her seat “Especially being under the protection of your Head Royal Guard” she adds just as Anakin slides into the seat beside her with Kiara on his other side. Padme smiles over at him “Anakin is very protective of this family and he takes his role very seriously” she replies

Once she had taken her seat, Padme cleared her throat. “One of the reasons we invited youth dinner tonight, is because we wanted to tell you first privately…” she pauses to take her husband’s hand just as Aurelia takes a deep breath hearing her go on “Obi Wan and I have been discussing the treaty all afternoon and after many, many arguments back and forth’ she smirks before she goes on “We have decided that the kingdoms would be better off in unity together” she concludes

Aurelia is suddenly taken aback by surprise “Are you?’ She asks trying to find the right words “Are you agreeing to the peace treaty?’’ She asks as Padme nods. “Your kingdom is starting to rebuild after years of being broke, and I believe we can see ourselves being there to help each other” she assures her

Aurelia feels a smile cross her face as she beckoned for one of the servants to come over. She quietly asked for a bottle of finest wine and glasses. “You have made  my people very happy” she revealed just as the servant returned and distributed the glasses and began to pour the wine. Once Aurelia had her drink, she rose to her feet.

“I’d like to thank you both for welcoming me to this kingdom” she begins “I know we started off on opposing sides but I assure you I do not want to go back to who I was. My past as a witch is over. I may have my powers but I will use them to help heal my kingdom” she states looking down at Anakin and Kiara. “Princess Kiara’s love for her family reminded me that love is stronger and I hope to make a family of my own” she confesses as Anakin gives a small smile, a smile not unnoticed by his brother once more.

“So, thank you Queen Padme and her husband King Obi Wan. This treaty, once signed, will help our kingdoms grow in unity” she explains as Anakin, Padme and Obi Wan rose their glasses of wine. Jacen, Kiara and Lily each had a glass of juice. “To the Queen and King!” She exclaims as Anakin then smirks “Slightly more to the Queen” he grins as Padme and Aurelia both chuckle as Obi Wan rolls his eyes slipping his drink as Kiara and Lily giggle. “Uncle Ani” they reply as Anakin shrugs as Aurelia takes her seat

“Thank you Aurelia” Padme smiles right at the moment the food was brought out to the dinner. “I will admit I was unsure about you being here given the past but you have been true to your word” she reminds her. Padme straightens up in her seat more. “However, this doesn’t mean my trust in you is up. It’s still going to take time” she admits as Aurelia nods

“I understand that and wouldn’t expect anything more” she agrees as she started to eat her meal along with everyone else. She watched at how Obi Wan and Padme interacted with their children and how Anakin interacted with his brother as well as his nieces and nephew. It pained her how she didn’t have any more family in her life now and she hoped that would change, but she still had her memories and as she watched the family interact, she quietly enjoyed her meal.

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After dinner that evening, Obi Wan and Padme headed back to their children’s rooms to help them get ready for bed as Anakin escorted Aurelia back to her quarters giving them another chance to spend more time together.

Anakin looks over at her as they turned down another hallway. “You seem nervous” he comments as Aurelia sighs “No, just thinking” she begins to reply “I still can’t believe this treaty is going to be signed” she admits “I came here to help my kingdom and I was starting to lose faith the longer I waited for a decision but then to know that this journey hasn’t been a waste, I’m grateful” she confesses

Anakin nods “I know I am grateful because truthfully I never thought I’d find love. I was in love with Padme, I even thought that perhaps Thalia might change but Aurelia, you’re different” he admits as they reached her quarters

“With the treaty being signed, you’ll be then leaving and I don’t know if I can just let you go” he admits as Aurelia placed a hand on his face. “Anakin, you love your family. I’ve watched you since I’ve been there and for three years protecting Kiara. I love you too but I won’t force you to leave your job or your family” she assures him. She gently kisses his cheek before entering her quarters before Anakin quietly heads back down the hallway, still in thought about what she said and could he really chose love over family.

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“I think my brother’s in love” Obi Wan points out entering their daughter’s room as Padme  tucked Kiara and Lily in as Padme, who had gently kissed her daughter Lily’s forehead turned around. “What?’ She asks surprised by her husband’s statement. Obi Wan looks over at her

“He’s in love with Aurelia. I noticed it the moment they entered the dining room tonight. He was smitten and all through dinner he couldn’t stop looking at her” he goes on as Padme was unsure how to respond “Anakin’s in love with Aurelia” she whispers before she sighs

“So, what does this mean?’ She asks “The treaty will be signed and she’ll leave, are you saying he’ll leave with her?” She adds. Obi Wan shrugs “I don’t know. I know he loves the children just as much as we do but can we allow him to give him a chance of being happy?” He asks her as Padme looks down at Kiara who was sleeping soundly

“I want him to be happy” she replies slipping her hands in his. “You and I have our happiness and family and so if Anakin wants to be with Aurelia we can’t get him in his way” she replies sharing a soft romantic kiss together. They were just about to leave when they heard a softer voice

“I don’t want Uncle Ani to leave” they spoke as Padme and Obi Wan both turned to see Kiara awake sitting in bed rubbing her eye. Obi Wan smiles over at his wife before they moved back taking a seat on her bed.

“Princess, you need to be asleep” Obi Wan tells her as Kiara sniffs “I can’t. I don’t want uncle Ani to leave” she repeats as Obi Wan gently embraces his daughter. “Kiara, your uncle will always love you and never forget you even if he leaves” he explains before he gives her a smirk “But that may not happen” he assures her seeing her giggle as Padme then spoke

“And we’re all family and no matter what family is there for each other” she reminds her as Kiara gives a small pout. Padme giggles “Kiara” she simply says. “I promise you Anakin will always be in this family” she promises her before they both each gave her a kiss and re tucked her in before headed out of the room.

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Padme linked her arm through her husband’s as they moved down the hallway. “Anakin will always be in this family?” She hears her husband asks as Padme smiles “That’s right, even if he’s in love. He’ll always be your brother and the children’s uncle. I grew up as an only child and only had my parents until I met you and Anakin and my family grew” she explains

Obi Wan stops and turns her towards him wrapping his arms around her waist, he placed one hand on her face. “It sure did” he smirks before she felt his lips against hers in a passionate kiss with the moonlight shining through one of the palace’s large glass windows.

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Kiara’s Dream

Once again, her kingdom was burning before Kiara’s very eyes, the people were crying out for help, they were fighting to get to the palace. Kiara didn’t think it was possible but some were even turning on the Royal family which was how this had all taken place

Now Kiara, with her older brother’s protective arms around her and her sister Lily stood on the steps to the palace watching as Delia, who she recognised as the witch who tried to make her believe her parents had once given up on her ordered her guards to bring out the prisoners - being her parents, her uncle and Queen Aurelia

Kiara gasped when she saw them, clothing in tatters, bruised and almost broken with their hands tied behind their backs. They were then forced to their knees as Delia turned towards the people

“Your King and Queen have failed you again!” She declared “Your homes are burning and your food is almost gone. They promise you protection but once more look at what has happened, they have lied to you” she explains

“No!” Kiara cries as Jacen pulls her back just as Padme struggled to get to her feet, against the guard’s grip on her. “No, you’re wrong!” She snaps, her voice was shaky though. “You’re blinded by revenge but just like those who tried to take my kingdom, you too will fall” she warns. Delia glares at her before she nods to her guards who pushed Padme once more to her knees

Delia turned towards the crowd “It is time for a new Queen!” She declares “And to remove the old Queen and King” she grins before she then goes on “Unless, the young Princess Kiara unleashes her witch powers and becomes the witch she was meant to be” she reveals

Kiara’s eyes filled with tears as she looks to her parents and uncle, both Obi Wan and Anakin shook their heads but she didn’t want them to die however she had spent the last three years refusing to join Alwina.

Delia smirks looking to her guards “Kill them” she orders as the guards prepared to execute Padme, Obi Wan, Anakin and Aurelia, four executors came forward with axes as Jacen, Kiara and Lily’s eyes widen. “No!” They cried before everything went black

End of dream

Kiara’s eyes suddenly opened, with sweat dripping down her forehead. Lily was still asleep in her bed, undisturbed. Kiara felt the tears fall down her cheeks as the images of her dreams flooded her mind once more. She dare not go back to sleep and so, she tiptoed out of the bed to find the one person she could talk to, her uncle.

 

Chapter 3

Anakin’s eyes suddenly opened as he sensed a small familiar presence still awake, even before the small knocking came at his door. Anakin slowly got out of his bed, slipping a gown over his bare chest and sleep pants. He reached for the door handle opening it before he blinked in surprise.

“Kiara!” He cried “What are you doing out of bed?’ He asks “Is everything alright?” He adds. Kiara said nothing and instead flung her arms around her uncle sobbing. “Oh uncle Ani, I had a horrible nightmare” she cried as Anakin then knelt down in front of her, placing both hands on her shoulders. Kiara continues to cry “The witch Delia, she was burning the kingdom and then she killed my parents, you and Queen Aurelia” she sobs as Anakin stiffens. Delia? He remembered her - the witch who would have killed him and tried to convince Kiara her parents didn’t need her.

Anakin pulls her into his arms, holding her close and gently rubs her back. “It’s alright Kiara, it was just a nightmare. Delia won’t even think about coming here because she won’t win and she hasn’t been since we were rescued” he reminds her as Kiara shakes her head as he wipes the tears from her face.

“But she’s powerful uncle Ani. Powerful than Alwina was, she went to her about what to do with me” she sniffs before Kiara then told him what else happened in the dream. “She wants me uncle Ani. She wanted me to become a witch” she sniffs. Anakin stiffens “I won’t let that happen Kiara. Neither will your parents. You resisted her before and if she comes to this kingdom, she’ll only fail” he promises

Kiara sniffs once more “You mean it?” She asks as Anakin gives her a smile “I promise” he assures her as she throws her arms around him. “I love you uncle Ani” she replies as Anakin holds her close “I’ll always love you sweet princess” he whispers.

“Now, let’s get you back to bed” he tells her as Kiara shook her head “I can’t sleep” she admits as he stands up lifting her into his arms “Alright come on, let’s go down to the library” he says knowing it had always been one of Kiara’s favourite places. Kiara nods hanging onto her uncle as he headed from his quarters to head for the library.

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Delia smirks down in her makeshift veil she had created so that she could”spy” on her enemies. Her confrontation with Aurelia had not worked out exactly how she wanted but she wasn’t deferred from her plan. She would ensure she created a new witch clan starting with Kiara who was stubborn and had her family to love her but she would change that

The image changed in her veil to watching Anakin carry Kiara into the library -

“Enjoy your family while you can sweet princess” she smirks “You’ll soon fulfil your potential and begin a new coven of witches” she says watching as Anakin takes a seat with Kiara on his lap before picking up a book to read.

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The sun was an hour from rising when Obi Wan awoke that morning. Padme was still asleep beside him before he decided to slip from the bed, slipping a gown over his chest and sleep pants. He headed down the hallway stopping to check on his children. Jacen was still asleep on his stomach and Lily was clutching her favourite teddy but no Kiara

Obi Wan felt his heart drop before he sensed she was not in danger and instead he headed straight for the library where he sensed she was. He stopped as he neared the doors as he heard his brother’s voice

“Your father won’t admit this but he was much too shy to talk to your mother when we first met her. He asked me to talk to her first” he smirks as Kiara giggles “That’s not what daddy said” she points out as Anakin looks shocked “Well, daddy shouldn’t lie although least he and your mother have that in common” he points out “Your mother lied about being a princess to protect herself” he explains

Kiara tilts her head “You didn’t know mommy was a princess?” She asks as Anakin shook his head “Nope, not until your grandfather held a tournament to find her a husband and well, it should have been your father and I fighting in the final round but a rival of your father’s fought dirty and so I fought in the end and knew how much they were in love said that I had won the fight for him and then your parents were married” he explains

Kiara tilts her head “Did you also love my mommy?” She asks as Anakin leans back in the seat with a smile. “I was but I knew how much your father loved her more and realised she wouldn’t love me in the same way” he replies as Kiara then asks “Do you love Queen Aurelia?’ As Anakin is silent right at the moment Obi Wan quietly enters the room.

“What do we have here?” He asks as Anakin breathes a sigh of relief as Kiara jumps off her uncle’s lap and rushes over to her father. “Daddy!” She cries throwing her arms around him. “Hey princess, why are you in bed?’ He asks as Kiara went silent as she remembered her nightmare but didn’t want to tell her father at the moment.

Anakin then spoke up “Kiara woke up early because she wanted to show me some of her abilities” he lies as Obi Wan looks over at his brother. “At this hour?” He asks as Anakin shrugs “Kiara was very eager” he tells him as Obi Wan then looks down at his daughter “Well, how about we go get some breakfast?’ He suggests as Anakin smirks “I know I’m hungry” he admits just as he, Obi Wan and Kiara headed out of the library. Kiara hated lying to her father but she didn’t want to worry her parents about Delia, only Anakin would remember her and she hoped she wouldn’t come to this kingdom.

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Once breakfast had been cleared, Anakin escorted the family to the council chamber where Padme had ordered her council to meet them there with an update about what was happening with the treaty. Padme wore her deep purple long sleeved dress to the floor with her hair done up in an elaborate hairstyle. She held her hand in her husband’s as they entered the chamber followed by their children all dressed in their Royal attire, Jacen choosing to wear his formal Jedi uniform like his father and uncle while Kiara wore a soft pale pink dress and Lily wore a soft light yellow dress and their hair done in thick curls.

Queen Aurelia was already there with her guards standing to one side as the council members stood on the other side curious and wondering what was happening. Majority of them were hoping that the Queen would be announcing that the treaty would be signed as they saw the alliance leading to a strong future.

Anakin stepped to the side, just as Jacen, Kiara and Lily moved over towards him as Padme and Obi Wan moved up to the centre before he lets go of her hand as she turns to face everyone.

“Thank you all for coming” she spoke in a clear voice “I know it’s been close to a week since Queen Aurelia graced us with her presence in our kingdom with the hopes of creating a treaty to bring our kingdoms together and given our pasts and what her witch coven has done to my family, I had a strong disinterest in this alliance because I didn’t trust that this was one trap to destroy my family once more” she reveals. She looked over at Aurelia.

“However, I have come to see that Queen Aurelia was once a princess like me who only wants what is best for her people. Had she not been raised by the witches, she would have become a strong Queen like me and this treaty would have been much sooner” she admits.

One of the advisors look at her in excitement “Your highness, does this mean you’re agreeing to the treaty?” He asks as Padme takes a deep breath before she shares a smile with her husband. “After a much lengthly discussion with my husband yesterday and we have spoken with Aurelia last night privately, that the treaty will be signed to unite our kingdoms!” She announced

The chamber suddenly filled with applauses as Anakin looks over at Aurelia giving her a small smile. Padme then spoke up once more. “Queen Aurelia and I are both strong Queens and together we can ensure the protection of our citizens and families” she says as Aurelia then moved up alongside her.

“Thank you Queen Padme. Your husband and yourself have welcomed me into your kingdom. I know I am inexperienced to be a Queen but I know from watching Padme I can become a strong willed Queen who’s parents only wanted her to protect her kingdom” she tells them. “For my years my kingdom thought they lost their Royal family until recently when I went home and found that they were broken and needed leadership” she went on. “Being here in your kingdom has shown me what I want my kingdom to look like and the leadership I need to implement” she turns to Padme and Obi Wan “So thank you your highnesses, for allowing me into this kingdom and the signing of this treaty” she concludes

However it was then at that moment they heard a sinister laugh fill the chamber. Anakin, his knights and Aurelia’s knights move to protect Padme, Obi Wan, Aurelia, Jacen, Kiara and Lily just as they saw a red puff of smoke appeared before Delia appeared before them.

“I hope I haven’t missed the ‘announcement’” she taunts as Kiara’s eyes widen in horror - she had hoped her nightmare was just a nightmare but here she was trying to destroy her family. “No!” Kiara cried as Anakin, sword out glared at her “You were foolish to come here Delia” he warns “You’re clearly outnumbered” he warns however Delia only smirks shaking her head

“I am not outnumbered” she informs him before they watched her raised her hands and her eyes go black before suddenly both Padme and Aurelia gasps suddenly seeing the guards, except Anakin, begin to turn their swords towards the family and Aurelia, their eyes dark and red. Anakin looks around in confusion “What are you doing?” He asks “Delia’s our enemy” he reminds them as one guard shook his head, his sword aimed straight towards Padme and Obi Wan “Sorry sire, Delia is our new mistress” he informs him as Anakin grips his sword tighter. He glares at Delia. “I won’t let you destroy this kingdom” he tells her and he starts to rush towards her however Delia was faster and with one hand sent Anakin flying into the wall
“Anakin!” Padme and Obi Wan both cried as Aurelia gasps, hands over her mouth as the children clung to their parents. The guards inched closer towards her as Delia smirks and moves over towards them.

“My clan was destroyed by you and your family, your highness” she tells Padme. “So, now I’m taking your kingdom just as Shira wanted from the beginning” she informs her. Padme stands strong. “Shira had no claim to my kingdom. She was working with Palpatine who murdered my father! She tried to take my son and brother in law from me!” She angrily snaps. Delia smirks tilting her head

“The lies you tell your children” she simply replies, she raises a hand to touch her face but not before Obi Wan pushes it away “That’s close enough” he warns as Delia glares at him before she turns back to Padme. “I’m sorry to say your reign is coming to an end” she informs her “Guards, take their highnesses to the dungeons” she orders adding “Don’t forget the head guard” indicating Anakin. The guards moved to grab hold of Obi Wan, Padme, Aurelia and the children.

They began to escort them from the chamber leaving the council advisors stunned and unable to argue back. Delia watches them go before she then calls out “Kiara!” She calls out seeing the little girl turn back “You know what you need to do” she simply warns as Kiara shook her head the tears falling as Delia moved towards the throne as the black clouds began to roll in over the palace.

Chapter 4

The dungeons were becoming Anakin’s least favourite place having been imprisoned in them enough and right now he felt like once again he had failed his brother and his family as well as Aurelia. He looked around the cell seeing Obi Wan with his arms around Padme, Jacen, Kiara and Lily cuddled up to their parents while Aurelia on the opposite bench, her eyes red from crying.

Anakin moved over towards her, wrapping an arm around her hearing her cry once more. “This is all my fault” she sobs “All I wanted was to repair my kingdom and now I’ll never see my people again” she cries. She looks over at Obi Wan and Padme “And I’m sorry to you both” she says “Delia’s going to kill us all and our kingdoms will suffer” she says

It was then Padme shook her head “Aurelia, I don’t blame you for Delia coming here” she reveals startling her “You’ve been here for over a week and could have betrayed us in less than a day but you didn’t. You were just as shocked when your men turned on you” she reminds her going on “And despite the situation we’re in now, Delia will not take my kingdom” she promises her

Kiara looked over at Anakin, keeping silently as Anakin shakes his head saying ‘Not just now sweet princess” Jacen gets to his feet. “I will help you get the kingdom back” he insists as Obi Wan takes his son’s hand in his. “We all will” he insists as Lily then softly spoke up “Aunt Sabe and Aunt Dorme can help us” she whispers as Padme gasps

“She’s right Obi Wan!” She cried. “They weren’t in the throne room because I had asked them to move the treaty to the library. I thought it would be nice if the treaty was signed in one of my favourite rooms” she smiles. Obi Wan quietly smirks “They would have figured out by now something was wrong and they’ll come find us” she insists
“We can hope” Obi Wan admits just as the door to the cell was unlocked and in stepped two guards. “Our Queen request the presence of Princess Kiara, the King and the Head Guard” the first guard spoke as Padme stands protectively in front of her daughter

“You’re not taking her anywhere” she warns however the guards said nothing and abruptly shoved her aside moving to cuff Kiara, Obi Wan and Anakin’s wrists. “I’ll ensure she doesn’t harm Kiara” Obi Wan assures his wife before they were pushed from the cell as Aurelia moves over towards Padme who picks up Lily holding her in her arms hoping this would soon be over.

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The palace was surrounded in darkness and luckily for Padme and her family, Sabe and Dorme had suspected something was wrong and had enacted their training and headed straight for the armoury where they donned their battle dresses and blasters.

“We need to find Padme and her family then we find out what’s going on here” Sabe informs her as Dorme nods. “We should try and find one of the council advisors. Everyone was still in the chamber. It’s possible they may know where to find Padme and what happened” she hints.

Sabe nods “Good thinking” she replies sighing “I just have a bad feeling” she confesses. Dorme nods slipping her blaster into her holster “Let’s keep moving before it’s too late” she tells her. 

To be Continued...