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zelenacat · 3 years

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When We Were Young- Chapter 16- An Obitine Story

Saturday came too quickly for the Duchess, she had now clue how she was going to tell her children she was pregnant again. She was thirty five now, dear God, what if something went wrong?

A knock scraped the door, “Lady Mother?”

“Come in, Tristan.”

Her second son wasn’t surprised to see all the shades drawn in the Duchess’ personal parlor, still, he seemed on edge.

“Is everything alright, Lady Mother?” he asked.

“Quite,” Satine swallowed, “I just have something important to tell you all.”

Tristan nodded and took a cookie from a plate of them. Tyra entered five minutes later.

“I’m on a discovery day,” she explained, “basically I’m supposed to look inside myself with the force.”

“And naturally,” Tristan began, “you’re here instead.”

“Naturally.” Tyra agreed.

Korkie and Mara came in together, happily chatting about Korkie’s schoolwork. However, when Satine got up and locked the door, they quieted down.

“I’m very nervous to tell you all this,” the Duchess began, wringing her hands, “but it does affect us all.”

Korkie stood and helped his mother to the couch. Satine waited till he was seated again to continue.

“No one can know about this,” she began, “just like no one can know about your parentage.”

Tristan and Tyra looked at each other. Mara’s brow furrowed.

“Lady Mother,” Korkie piped up, “it’s alright, you can tell us.”

“You’re getting twin sisters,” Satine said shakily, “and I was never able to tell your father about you.”

The shock settled in.

“Lady Mother,” Tyra began, “Father is in the Outer Rim, is that right?”

“Yes.”

Tyra’s face saddened, “There are rumors that the Council predicts he will be there for almost a year.”

The Duchess straightened, “I hadn't heard that.”

“It’s just a rumor,” Tyra frowned deeper, “but we never know with the war.”

Satine leaned back in her chair, “Ah, yes, war.”

“Is there any way we can help you conceal this?” Mara asked.

“We’ll see whether or not they’re force sensitive,” the Duchess announced, “but likely they will have to be split up.”

“One to the Temple and one-”

“I don’t know.” Satine interjected.

“Congratulations, Lady Mother,” Tristan smiled, reaching over, “I’m excited to meet my sisters.”

“So am I,” the Duchess smiled sadly, “thank you for your support, Tristan.”

Everyone turned to Korkie.

“So our father continues his trend of leaving you with children even though he’s a Jedi.” spat the Duke of Sundari.

“Korkie!” Tyra warned.

“You know what,” Korkie stood, “no, why does he do this?”

“Korkie,” Trsiatn began, “calm down.”

“The holonet portrays him as some hero,” Korkie crossed his arms, “yet he leaves you pregnant every time without a second thought!”

“Korkyrach Kryze,” Satine snapped, “I won’t hear anymore of this!”

Korkie didn’t move.

“Don’t raise your eyebrow at me, young man,” the Duchess warned, “your father is certainly a hero, he just doesn’t know he’s a father.”

“Some intuitive Jedi he turned out to be.” Korkie snapped.

“Korkyrach-”

“I’m happy for you, Lady Mother,” the Duke of Sundari continued, “I really am, I just don’t see why you defend him!”

Satine swallowed, “I love your father, Korkie, and as soon as it’s safe to reach him I will contact and tell him.”

“I don’t want to meet him.” Mara frowned.

“I’ve only seen him in passing,” Tyra piped up, “but he seems nice.”

Mara turned, “How can a man who doesn’t care about the mother of his children be nice?”

“He doesn’t know.” Tristan offered.

“Still,” Korkie added, “if he loved Lady Mother enough to marry her-”

“We’re not married.”

All eyes turned to the Duchess.

“I lied to him, I was the one who kept him in the dark,” tears welled in Satine’s eyes “if anyone is to be blamed for our fractured family it’s me.”

Korkie shook his head, “I can’t believe that, Lady Mother.”

“You needed to protect us.” Mara added.

“It’s true,” Tyra seconded, “the Jedi Council would’ve likely expelled our father, or at least had us killed.”

Tristan reached out to the Duchess, “You can’t blame yourself, Lady Mother, this is what life has thrown at you.”

“Thank you, children, for your support,” Satine swallowed, eyeing Korkie, “we will not speak of this again until we have plans.”

Tyra stood and kissed her mother’s cheek.

“Take care, Lady Mother.”

Mara came next, following Tyra’s example.

“I wish you well, Lady Mother.”

Tristan embraced his mother.

“Congratulations, Lady Mother.”

Korkie kissed his mother’s hand.

“I’m sorry, Lady Mother.”

“Don’t be,” Satine replied, “there’s so many secrets floating around.”

“I hope you won’t keep anymore from us.” Korkie replied.

“I don’t intend to.” Satine promised.

Ahsoka arrived the following Monday.

“My lady, if I may,” Almec began, “what do the Jedi know of our ways? Do we really want them meddling with our children's education?”

“Surely there is nothing to fear from exposing them to new ideas,” Satine smiled as memories came to her, “Prime Minister.”

“Duchess Satine.”

Anakin kissed Satine’s hand, playing the party of Jedi Master of Almec.

“Master Skywalker, so good to see you again,” Satine turned to Ahsoka as if she didn’t know her, “this is your Padawan, I assume.”

“Yes, m’lady, may I present, Ahsoka Tano.”

Ahsoka’s grin threatened to barge out of her calm face, “Duchess, Prime Minister.”

Satine gave some welcome thanks about the peace keepers of tomorrow, and how important it was that they be instructed correctly. To which, Master Skywalker awkwardly replied that he had to return to battle, but that Ahsoka had the full confidence of the council.

“Cadets: Korkie, Amis, Lagos,” Prime Minister Almec summoned, “come greet the Jedi.”

“Woah,” Amis pointed, “is that a real lightsaber?”

“Amis-”

“Dude,” Korkie gestured, “she’s a Padawan.”

“Right.”

The Prime Minister was horrified.

“Padawan Tano,” Satine began, “may I introduce Cadet Korkie, my nephew.”

The children shook hands, failing to hide their glee.

“Excuse me sir,” a clone popped up, “but it is time to depart.”

Almec held out his hand, “Please, Padawan Tano, no off-worlders may carry weapons on Mandalore.”

“Perhaps your Master should take your weapon.” Satine suggested.

After a quick second, Ahsoka passed her lightsaber to Anakin.

“Welcome to Mandalore, Padawan Tano.” the Prime Minister smiled.

On their way to the Royal Academy of Government, Amis and Lagos pestered Ahsoka with questions about the Jedi Order. Satine was disappointed to note that Korkie was faking his disinterest poorly.

“Enough of this talk children,” Almec waved his hand, “you are the future leaders of Mandalore, you have nothing to do with the Jedi.”

Korkie turned to Ahsoka, who raised an eyebrow.

“Don’t you agree, Padawan Tano.” the Prime Minister asked.

“I think sympathy is an important attribute for any leader,” Ahsoka began, “be they Mandalorian or Jedi.”

Almec nodded politely, clearly displeased.

Apparently, Ahsoka’s lesson went well, Korkie told his mother all about it after the class. Except, Korkie came to see her the following afternoon with his friends.

“There’s no food shortage,” Korkie began, “we found stores of food at the government port.”

Satine raised an eyebrow, “How do you know this?”

“That doesn’t matter.”

“I beg to differ.” Satine argued.

As a cadet explained about the secret recording they’d managed to capture, the Duchess’s mind whirled.

Korkie himself, Satine noticed, was angry.

“We have to find the one responsible.” he stated energetically.

The Duchess put her hand on her son’s arm, “This is a serious matter, I agree, but the source of this evil may be more than you cadets can handle.”

“People can be very deceiving,” Satine continued, walking towards the door, “you don’t want to get yourselves into trouble.”

Korkie scoffed, “But, Auntie, don’t you see, you can’t ignore this!”

“I won’t, trust me,” Satine stroked Korkie’s head, “but for your safety you must let me handle this. Now run along, all of you. There will be time to save the world when you’re a bit older.”

Satine went straight to Almec, who seemed very worried indeed.

“No, Almec,” the Duchess straightened, “this must be addressed immediately! Children and corruption never mix well, do you know what this means for the system?”

They came the next day when Satine was in her office. She turned to find the secret service facing her, the prime minister’s personal guards. Suddenly, everything became clear.

“Don’t,” Satine held up her hands to keep them away from her stomach, “I will go willingly.”

She couldn’t help but despair, Almec was a traitor and a wise politician, he would ruin all the good work she had done for the past seventeen years. Not only that, but they would soon realize her condition, and it would be all over.

The next friendly face she saw was Ahsoka, “I’m getting you out of here.”

Satine nearly cried, “Ahsoka, no, it’s a trap!”

The Padawan was shocked.

“I see you’ve found the Duchess, youngling,” Almec smiled, “you may stop your playacting now Sergeant.”

The guards stood at attention, “Prime Minister, sir!”

“Using a Jedi mind trick was a very poor decision,” the Prime Minister continued, “my guards have been trained against such archaic magic. And now you have revealed yourself as a conspirator. Set for stun!”

Satine winced as Ahsoka was hit with a stun ray.

“You little fool,” Almec goaded.”

A guard handed the Prime Minister a holopad and pen.

“Sign it,” Satine looked up to face Almec, “sign it and confess to your treasonous ways.”

The Duchess growled, “There is only one traitor to Mandalore here, Prime Minister, and that’s you! You control the black market, you have betrayed the public trust, and you used your office to accumulate wealth and power! It’s shameful!”

Almec actually laughed, “You’re idealism is inspiring, Satine, but honestly, I established the black market for the people.”

“That’s absurd!” Ahsoka shouted, eyes flashing.

Satine realized in that moment that Korkie must’ve told her about the secret, and it pained the Duchess to know that Ahsoka would die trying to save her if necessary.

While Almec gave his “humanitarian” excuses about the black market, Satine grumbled at him.

“My patience has run thin, Duchess, Sergeant, put the shock collar on her!”

Ahsoka’s eyes went wide.

“No, no wait,” she begged, “the Jedi Council won’t-”

“The Jedi Council has no authority on Mandalore,” the Prime Minister spat, “who cares what they think?”

The shock came, if Satine’s hands weren’t bound, she would’ve cradled her stomach. Fortunately, the shocks were centered around her neck, but the Duchess knew her whole body would suffer.

“I would rather die,” Satine gasped, “then sign your confession!”

“That can be arranged.” Almec grinned.

“You’re wasting your time,” Ahsoka growled, “you’ll-”

“Bring me those traitorous Cadets!” the Prime Minister barked, ignoring Ahsoka.

“No,” tears welled in Satine’s eyes, “you can’t they’re just children!”

Almec laughed.

“I’m afraid your nephew will have to suffer needlessly,” Almec announced as the children arrived, “put the shock collar on Cadet Korkie.”

Satine watched helplessly as her son’s face contorted in fear, but he did not step backward. Ahsoka however, wouldn't have this. The Duchess watched impressed as the Padawan knocked down three guards by herself, allowing Korkie and his friends to overpower their guards, even with their hands tied. After a quick skirmish with the stun gun, Ahsoka was able to get the shock collar on Almec.

“Stop fighting!” he yelled.

His thugs looked at one another.

“Send for my personal guards.”

After the guards arrived, Satine had the great pleasure of locking Almec up herself, but she would not, however, let that pride get to her.

“You must know by now,” Satine turned to Ahsoka, “that I did not bring you here just to teach. I knew something was amiss, but I didn’t know who I could trust. Luckily, I made the right choice in Padme, a friend of the Senator’s was bound to be useful, especially a Jedi.”

“I never doubted you, Duchess.” Ahsoka smiled.

“Neither did we.” said Korkie, going in for a hug.

On the way out, Satine insisted that Korkie and his friends be escorted back to the academy.

“But-”

“Listen to me, son,” Satine leaned in close, “my ladies will help me, I’ll let you know if anything has changed.”

“Of course,” Korkie paused, “Lady Aunt.”

Satine kissed Korkie’s head before they left.

“Momdalore,” Ahsoka began, “Padme said that my mission was especially important, but I didn’t realize-”

“It’s alright,” Satine put a hand on Ahsoka's shoulder, “you got us out of there.”

“So, so,” Ahsoka’s eyes went wide, “you’re really-”

Satine hushed her, “My ladies will accompany me to the medical ward, I would like you to stand guard at the door.”

Ahsoka grinned so wide Satine thought she was liable to burst.

“I’d be honored.” the Padawan nodded.

Khaami and Parna were very fussy when the Duchess returned.

“Oh, Satine,” Parna cried, “we thought Death Watch got you!”

The Duchess shook her head, “Never.”

Khaami lowered her voice, “We’re glad you all are safe.”

“They gave me a shock collar,” Satine whispered back, “accompany me to the medical ward.”

The nurse on call asked if she should send for the doctor.

“No, thank you,” Satine smiled politely, “I’d just like my vitals checked, it’s been a frightening couple of days.”

When the nurse left to prepare, Khaami and Parna went in search of an old sonogram machine. The most modern ones were as large as holo screens, but the one Khaami found was likely one that belonged to Satine’s mother. This one was about ¼ the size.

“I used one like this,” Khaami whispered, pouring gel on Satine’s stomach, “I can remember how to work it.”

Parna kept on guard for the nurse, who was at the end of the hall quietly humming to herself. Satine watched as the machine blinked on, and after a while, Khaami found them.

“How long?” Khaami asked.

Satine thought back, eyes on the screen, “About eleven weeks, almost a first trimester.”

“They’re beautiful, Satine,” Khaami smiled, “two healthy little girls.”

The Duchess once again found tears in her eyes.

“Six children?” Khaami whispered in awe.

“I know.”

Khaami began turning off the machine just as they heard Parna’s voice.

“Oh, excise me, nurse,” she laughed, “the Duchess would just like some water.”

Satine pulled down her shirt without wiping the gel away. Khaami hid the machine under the medical bed.

“You ready, Your Grace?” asked the nurse.

Satine amiled, “Yes, thank you.”

After a moment, the nurse frowned.

“Your heart rate is a little high.”

“Nerves, Your Grace?” Khaami suggested.

“Yes,” Satine nodded, “I don’t think I’m quite over the whole ordeal.”

The nurse smiled sympathetically, “Perhaps a night’s rest then?”

“Yes.”

Satine sat up and swung her legs over.

“Your Grace,” the nurse swallowed, “if you are in need of any other medical assistance, please do ask.”

The Duchess understood her immediately, it was nearly impossible to fool a doctor after all, “Thank you.”

Upstairs in her room, Satine showered after bidding good night to Ahsoka. As she dried her hair, Satine’s thoughts unconsciously wandered to Obi-Wan. God, she missed him. Then, as if the universe knew what she was thinking, Satine’s comm beeped. Puling her nightgown over her head, Satine rushed to the table.

“Obi-Wan?” she asked quietly in utter disbelief.

“I was wounded, but I’m alright now.”

Satine began to shake, hearing her Jedi’s voice had put her into shock. The Duchess collapsed into a chair.

“Satine?”

“I,” she quivered, “I, are you alright?”

“Yes,” Obi-Wan replied, “I just heard about what happened.”

“I’m alright too.” Satine smiled sadly.

An uncomfortable pause followed, only ending when both Satine and Obi-Wan spoke at the same time.

“I love you.”

“I just wanted,” Satine paused, “you love me?”

“Yes, my darling, I do.”

The Duchess burst into tears.

“Satine-”

“I’m glad you feel that way,” Satine breathed, “because-”

“General Kenobi?”

The comm flicked off. Satine cried a little more. Obi-Wan was still embarrassed about their relationship, he was a Jedi after all, their poster boy.

“Satine,” Obi-Wan’s warm voice cooled, “Satine, did I upset you?”

“I don’t know what to do.” the Duchess gasped.

“I’ll be back soon.”

“But you don’t want anyone to know about us.”

Obi-Wan sighed, “I’d get in trouble, so would you.”

“I understand,” Satine forced the words out of her mouth, “you may leave me if you wish.”

There came a moment of silence, and Satine’s heart dropped.

“Satine-”

“Ben,” the Duchess sniffed, “what am I going to do?”

The Jedi’s voice softened, “What’s wrong, my darling?”

“I have a problem-”

“Do the people know?”

“No,” Satine swallowed, “but I could get in a lot of trouble.”

Obi-Wan understood immediately, “Who made you do what you did?”

Satine was quiet.

“Because if you’re being blackmailed-”

“It’s medical.” the Duchess blurted.

“Satine?”

“Ben-”

“General Kenobi?”

“Not now, Cody!” Obi-Wan shouted.

Satine flinched at his ferocity, she imagined so did the clone.

“Sorry, General.”

The Duchess heard a door close.

“How badly were you hurt?” Satine questioned suddenly.

“Not terribly.”

Satine snorted, “I don’t believe that.”

Obi-Wan sighed, “I’ll be out of fighting for at least two months.”

“Obi!”

“I’m fine, really, Satine, I-”

The Duchess yawned, “I’m too tired to be lied to, Ben, and I need sleep, but know you can call me whenever.”

The Jedi’s voice turned gooey, “Sleep well, my love.”

Satine blew a kiss at Obi-Wan’s blue figure, he winked back. The Duchess was so tired she completely forgot to feel guilty for concealing the truth from her Jedi.

In the morning, after arriving on the platform and putting her son at ease, Satine watched as Korkie and Ahsoka joked around.

“It was an honor to serve with a Jedi Knight.” Korkie winked.

“It was my privilege,” Ahsoka retorted, “to be your teacher.”

Just then, Master Skywalker descended onto the platform, looking mildly amused yet concerned,

“I hope this assignment wasn’t too boring for you.” he said loudly.

Ahsoka shrugged, “Well, it had its moments.”

“Oh,” Anakin clutched his chest, “like the part where you enlisted untrained children to help you overthrow a corrupt government?”

“Yeah,” Ahsoka turned back,”that was a highlight.”

“We had fun!” Korkie shouted.

Anakin snorted, “And would Your Royal Highness accompany Ahsoka on a mission like that again?”

The Duke of Sundari almost answered, but then his mother cut him off.

“You better not be planning to take my Korkie anywhere, Master Skywalker.” she raised an eyebrow.

Anakin bowed, grinning like a fool, “I would never disobey any order from you, Duchess.”

Satine clicked her tongue, “That’s good to hear, do tell my favorite Senator she’s an angel for sending Ahsoka.”

Anakin smiled like a young loverboy should, possibly something about her choice of words, “I will.”

Satine turned as the ship sped off, ordering the children back to their studies.

“Yes, Your Grace.” Wrapping an arm around Korkie Satine walked to the speeders waiting for them.

“No more sneaking into government warehouses.” the Duchess commanded, shooting a look at her son.

“Never again, Lady Aunt.” Korkie bowed.

“Study hard.” Satine waved.

Back at the palace, Satine summoned the nurse from the night before to her quarters. She could tell the woman was nervous, her curtsy was quick.

“Your Grace.”

“Tell me your hypothesis,” Satine leaned back, “tell me why you think I was in the med ward last night.”

The nurse straightened, gathering her courage, “I found an old ultrasound machine under your bed.”

“Which means?”

“You’re expecting.”

Parna and Khaami looked at one another.

“The image saved,” the nurse continued, “and your twin girls are healthy.”

“No one can know.” Parna crossed her arms cooly.

“I won’t tell,” the nurse vowed, “I’ve seen what women do to get out of these predicaments.”

“That won’t be the case here,” Satine assured her, “the only others who are aware of my condition are my head guards and my ladies.”

The nurse nodded.

“Do tell us your name.” Khaami added.

“Hera,” the nurse smiled, “there was an ancient goddess who my mother revered.”

The Duchess grinned, “The goddess of childbirth, how fitting.”

“I’d love to be of more help,” Hera continued, “especially with your second ultrasound.”

“Second?” Parna frowned.

“It’s recommended you get two,” Hera explained, “your second should be about the five month mark.”

“I’m exactly eleven weeks.” Satine told her.

“Then we should have some time,” Hera smiled kindly, “I’m sure this must be hard with your duties.”

Satine huffed in agreement. Parna’s comm flashed.

“Your personal advisors are waiting in the throne room with the ruling council,” she told her lady, “they wish to discuss the upcoming elections.”

“Ah,” the Duchess stood, “I must go, thank you for your time, Hera.”

“Please look for me if your Grace requires anything.” the nurse curtsied.

The ruling council were keen to hear Satine’s personal recollection of recent events, and once she told them, they revealed that Almec’s friends weren’t happy with his arrest.

“A public statement was made this morning by his deputy,” Countess Bralor frowned, “who claims to be innocent of any crimes.”

“It is good that elections are in a month,” Governor Eldar stated, “as the new Governor of Concordia, I was hoping to make an official request that you attend the swearing in ceremonies of the winners.”

“But we are unsure,” continued one of Satine’s advisors, “it could be portrayed that you had a hand in Almec’s downfall.”

“He destroyed himself.” the Duchess responded coldly.

The counselors looked at one another.

“Perhaps if you were to do an interview, Your Grace,” Countess Bralor suggested, “and share your experiences with the public, perhaps they might appreciate what you went through.”

Satine hated interviews, they made her feel exposed.

“How about a press conference.” the Duchess suggested.

It was scheduled for later that day. Satine made sure to wear one of her corseted gowns. On one side sat her personal advisors, the ruling council was on the other, and behind her stood Parna and Khaami.

“I am before you today to discuss our former Prime Minister’s fall from grace,” Satine announced, “I know many of you are as shocked as I was to discover the truth, and I am here to answer any questions you have on the subject.”

One reporter raised her hand.

“What was the Prime Minister’s reasoning for doing what he did?”

“In his mind,” Satine began, “the black market and food shortage were assets to Mandalore because it funneled money into the government while keeping the citizens innocent of their knowledge as to where their money was going. It was essentially a tax on the most needy in our system.”

Another reporter raised his hand.

“The former Prime Minister blamed you for these crimes,” he asked, “why do you think that was the case.”

“He needed a scapegoat,” Satine replied, “and he knew I would not rest until my government was free of corruption. Almec put a shock collar on my person and attempted to do so kn my nephew, who is a minor. Three other Cadets were jailed because of their efforts to inform me.”

There was some muttering about the shock collar, and the jailed children, before Satine continued.

“The former Prime Minister did not act alone, we know it was not possible for him to do so,” the Duchess straightened, “therefore, the new efforts to capture corrupt criminals in government positions will be doubled. You may expect many more revelations in the coming weeks.”

With that, Satine left. Dramatic as she liked to be, the Duchess knew she had made enemies that day. Corrupt officials who vowed never to lose their wealth. Well, if they gained it through improper ways, then they would.

Within a week, they had a new Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, a new liaison to the Republic Senate, and the first liaison to the Sepereatist Senate.

#satine kryze #Duchess Satine #satine x obiwan #obiwan #obi wan kenobi #obitine #korkie kenobi #korkie kryze #areyallstillhere?

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shadowsong26x · 4 years

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EPIX/Rise of Skywalker Reaction Post

So, I got back from seeing EPIX this morning, and I figured I should get all my thoughts down!

Everything spoilery is behind a cut, and this post is also tagged with the spoiler tags I’ve listed here. If you want me to add any additional tags, let me know and I will to this and any future EPIX posts.

Okay, so, before I really get into this, I should mention two relevant contextual things that probably strongly impacted my feelings on this movie.

I’m not super-invested in the sequel trilogy. I love (most of) the characters, I’m not really into the story that’s being told with them.

Given where TLJ left us, I went into the theatre expecting something between A Trainwreck with Some Delightful Moments and A Delightful Trainwreck. Basically, it was going to be a Hot Mess and I knew it, but I was pretty sure there was going to be something to love, even if the film as a whole didn’t delight me (which, honestly, is even where I stand with TLJ, which remains my least favorite film of the series). And, you know what? I got exactly that. A Sometimes-Delightful Trainwreck. I’d say it’s even towards the upper end of that Delightfulness scale.

All right, moving on to actual thoughts. I’m trying to focus on the positive here, mostly because I did overall enjoy this movie, but I also had some Problems with it.

I’m gonna talk about Kylo Ren first, mostly because I want to get this out of the way. I will say that--when I first saw TFA, I thought I could be interested in this character. I thought they were gonna maybe go the burnt-out gifted kid route with him, which would be hella interesting to explore for the child of Heroes like Han and Leia, and the Legacy he had to live up to. Obviously, they didn’t, and while the direction they went is certainly topical, it’s not super engaging, at least to me. I know it is to some people, and far be it from me to harsh anyone’s squee, but he basically doesn’t do anything for me. I personally don’t find him particularly interesting or intimidating.

Basically, I don’t particularly care about Kylo Ren. (I don’t know if I’m quite at the point where, as my roommate puts it, I aggressively Do Not Care, but the Not Caring is definitely a thing.)

Anyway, that disclaimer aside--his arc was okay, I guess? I mean...I think my general feelings on the subject are not that it felt phoned-in, exactly, but that it was mostly there because the writers thought it should be there, rather than it flowing organically from the character(s) involved. It also felt rushed, but that goes back to a problem with the movie as a whole that I will get into later in this post. But, given that, the actual beats that were involved in said arc I thought were effectively done. The bit with Han in the wreckage, in particular, was nice.

As for that Kiss though.

...I mean. I’m actually kind of pleased that the end of the film left the romantic threads dangling? It gave me plenty of OT3 feels (though I felt like, especially in the first third or so, the film was leaning more towards Rey/Poe and Finn/Rose, but there was some later stuff that seemed to hint at the full OT3 with a question mark on where Rose stands.)

But I do have a problem with the fact that the only on-screen kiss between Major Characters was between Rey and Kylo Ren/Ben Solo. That being said, I can backfill/justify it in that...you know how some people headcanon that Luke’s initial crush on Leia was some sort of “There is a Connection Here that I Cannot Name and it’s probably supposed to be Romantic given our ages and genders and presumed lack of other relationship so let’s go with that?” Between something like that and the fact that he just gave up his life for her in a very literal way (side note: the Force has always been New Powers as the Plot Demands; but the healing thing was a) if not actually in a canon novel at least strongly implied and b) ALL OVER fanon so even if I had a problem with Random Force Powers suddenly occurring I wouldn’t have an issue with this one; the Force Diad thing was ~handwave plot device~ sure fine whatever). ...anyway, given all of that, I can backfill it to a way where I don’t hate it (i.e., if he’d lived, I don’t think it would’ve been followed up on very much/they would’ve settled into a non-romantic relationship of some kind, whatever that might’ve been). Except that it’s the only one, which kind of leaves a sour taste in my mouth.

Then again, he did immediately die, so...yeah, I can live with this. I don’t like it, and I don’t think I ever will like it, but I don’t hate it either and it’s not a dealbreaker for me.

Most of the other problems I have with this film come down to structure and pacing. In that, thanks to where TLJ left us, this move had to do so much to bring the story to any kind of cohesive end, and not enough time to do it in. Trying to squeeze too much plot into too small a space.

(I actually had the same problem with ROTS initially--although that was more due to the PT having pacing issues as its Primary Narrative Flaw; TPM was way too slow; AOTC actually had good internal pacing but couldn’t quite make up for it; and then ROTS was as a consequence of that really rushed. Meanwhile, with the ST, I feel like the writers are relying on “it’s all there in the manual” a little too much, so not really...trying as hard, if that makes sense? To make it all connect within the film, I mean, as opposed to depending on people going into other/outside/supplemental material to connect the dots (still not as bad as the Prisoner of Azkaban movie on that front, but it’s still Bad; and, like, all film versions of novels leave some stuff out, just look at the LOTR films; but POA left out a key plot point and that--is a rant for another post. Back to EPIX). It’ll be interesting to see what kind of deleted scenes come out, or if it’ll grow on me in future watchings. Not that it’ll ever become a favorite, I don’t think, but it might improve in my eyes.)

Anyway, basically, a lot of this felt rushed or like...introduced but not really addressed/wrapped up in any kind of satisfactory fashion? Kylo Ren’s arc in particular, as I’ve mentioned before, plus the Threepio stuff felt rushed and non-consequential, and also with Rey’s arc to an extent (it...again, all the beats worked for me/I thought it was fairly effective, but it really needed two movies to pay off as well as it could have). ...I mean, there are more plot threads I could probably mention here, but those are the three that stuck out the most.

Also, this movie needed More Rose :( I LOVE HER and she was barely here!!!!!

Another thing I would’ve liked to see is...okay, I really liked the Overlapping Voices bit, but it would’ve been nice to have more Presence from the ghosts? Like...there’s a bit at the end of season 1 of Sailor Moon where she’s in the Final Battle, the other four have died (or just been left behind, if you’re watching the English dub), and their ghosts show up and place their hands on hers and lend her their strength? A visual cue like that would’ve been great and helped the arc feel more complete. Especially since Palpatine had all of his predecessors/Sith ghosts backing him in a more visible fashion. But, then again, that’s a Personal Taste thing and while it would’ve, IMO, made that moment better, not having it doesn’t make it worse, if that makes sense?

(Also, the credits moved too fast for me to track, but I definitely saw Qui-Gon Jinn listed, though I don’t recall hearing him, and I definitely recognized Anakin/Hayden Christensen and Mace/Samuel L. Jackson and Obi-Wan/Ewan McGreggor (and Alec Guinness I’m pretty sure?) and obvs. Yoda/Frank Oz when actually listening, but I couldn’t identify the other voices--anyone have the full list? Was Ahsoka and/or Kanan and/or Ezra involved, or was it restricted to movie-only Jedi?)

But...yeah. Apart from the Kiss being very ....:/ for me, most of my identifiable problems with the film is stuff like this.

I think the other thing I want to talk about in detail is the Rey Palpatine reveal.

So, up until this movie, I was actually in my corner flying my tiny but determined Rey Kenobi flag, and the more I think about it, the more I like Rey Palpatine for some of the same reasons? Like...I don’t remember everything I’d thought through about Rey Kenobi, but it had to do with the cyclical nature of Star Wars, and bringing it back where it started--and we get that with Rey Palpatine, in a nice arc, healing some of the damage her grandfather did, both to this family and to the galaxy as a whole.

That being said--those of you who know me and my fic projects know I’ve been writing a child (daughter) for Palpatine for quite some time now, and I have no intention of stopping, lol. Am I going to take this/Lavinia’s (presumably) half-brother into account in future projects? ...probably not. But I am looking forward to/hoping we get a novel or something about him and Rey’s mother. Because that is actually a story I’m interested in--why canon!Palpatine chose to have a kid, and how said kid managed to break away and got to this point. [...y’know, I actually think Rey Kenobi’s background/thread of descent would be less interesting to me? Since I subscribe to the idea that a) Korkie Kryze is Obi-Wan’s biological son; and b) Obi-Wan had many Friends With Benefits throughout the galaxy and figuring out exactly which one Rey descends from carries less weight for me.]

...okay, I think that’s all the Detaily Bits I want to get into, so here are some bullet points of things that really stuck out to me, in no particular order:

Bawled like a baby re: everything involving Carrie Fisher. Just...yeah. Miss you Space Mommy.

LANDO! I loved his entrance, I loved him adopting Jannah at the end, I loved all of it.

Chewie’s fake-out death was also actually pretty good/well-handled. I mean. First Boom happens and I’m like DDDDDDD: but then I remember how people reacted to his death in Legends and I’m like would they really do it and then DELIGHT.

HUX. Okay. I never really cared about this dude before, and honestly I still don’t really care about this dude but at the same time, those of you who know me know I have a Thing for double-agents and defectors and I LOVE THIS WHOLE ENTIRE PLOT THREAD. I LOVE THIS SHITHEAD TURNING TRAITOR FOR THE MOST VENAL REASONS AND STILL BEING A BAD GUY/EVIL/AN UNREPENTANT JACKASS. THIS WAS PERFECT.

(Also Finn shooting him in the leg instead of the arm as requested was DELIGHTFUL)

SPEAKING OF DELIGHTFUL gotta love Zombie Skeev Palpatine Unliving His Best Afterlife. Was he as Delightful as he is in ROTS or ROTJ? No. Did I still enjoy every minute of his scenery-chewing nonsense? You bet your ass. So happy, Ian McDiarmid looked like he was having tons of fun and honestly what more could I have asked for?

The whole scene on Ahch-To was just *chef’s kiss.* Use of Yoda’s theme with the rising X-Wing, Luke being snarky and kind and beautiful, him emerging from the fire with the saber...just loved it.

LEIA HAD JEDI TRAINING AND HER OWN LIGHTSABER. BB!MARK HAMILL AND BB!CARRIE FISHER’S FACES.

LEIA TRAINING REY. REY CALLING HER ‘MASTER.’

USING THE BOND TO ARM KYLO REN okay like I said I have Mixed Feelings about the arc as a whole but that moment was SO COOL.

Poe’s ex-girlfriend was pretty great, ngl.

JANNAH AND EX-STORMTROOPERS YESSSSSSSS

HINTS OF/SHREDS OF EVIDENCE FOR FORCE-SENSITIVE FINN GIVE THEM TO ME NOW.

D-0 was pretty cute!

All of the Badass Finn.

Also that MOMENT where Finn runs up to Poe like “I NEED TO TELL YOU A THING” and Poe is all “I NEED YOU TO FIGHT WITH ME” and Finn just interrupts himself to thank Poe and they have that “General” “General” moment and it’s SO CUTE I’m love it.

The entire thing at the Lars farm at the end. Just. Burying the lightsabers, seeing the twins’ ghosts, claiming the Skywalker name, Rey having her own saber now. This movie was a Hot Mess but it definitely ended on a high note.

...that’s pretty much what I have for right now. I will probably have more thoughts after discussing it with other people/seeing it again (because I will be seeing it again). But overall...do I like it? Well, it’s Star Wars, which I love and which frankly always has some Super Dumb and/or Frustrating Stuff, and the things I disliked weren’t bad enough to Ruin It for me, so yes, I liked it. Is it my favorite Star Wars/good for a Star Wars movie? ...not really, no. It did have some gorgeous moments, but it doesn’t really hang together. Like the rest of the ST, it relies way too much on It’s All There In The Manual and, between that and the fact that TLJ didn’t do the work necessary to set it up, the movie felt rushed and a little bit...I don’t want to say hollow, maybe shallow is a better word? I mean, I know this is Star Wars and It’s Not That Deep (but the ground is soft and I’m ready to dig or however the quote goes), but this felt particularly shallow even for Star Wars. Like...cotton candy, fairly good/tasty but a little bit prone to melting away and with very little substance holding it together. On that level, I’d actually probably rank it around Solo (which, let me say, I really like)--so, better than TLJ, but still A Hot Mess of a movie. But I enjoyed myself, and I think overall my feelings are middling-to-positive on it. Even if...honestly, even like less than four hours after the movie ending, I’m already forgetting like half the plot points...? Like I said. Cotton Candy.

What did/do you guys think?

#star wars spoilers #sw spoilers #epix spoilers #episode ix spoilers #spoilers #star wars epix #star wars episode ix #epix

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