The Guardian of the Chosen One (English Version of "La Gardienne de l'Elu")

Chapter 37: Duel and Evasion

Hi! Here is the continuation with the beginning of the duel of Bespin. Feel free to vote (if you like it) or to comment.

Leia's point of view

K...My...my aunt was my mother? I...I couldn't believe it! But as much as I tried to deny it in my head, my heart knew it was true. Everything coincided...Her envious look...Her overprotection...Her tender gestures... Her advice...She was not an aunt to her niece, but a mother to her daughter. This meant...The stories she told were about her history with Father? Was it out of jealousy that Vader had killed him?

When Kyria fainted, or mother I should say, he took her in his arms and hurried out of the room to get her treated. This reinforced my theory, on this love undoubtedly not shared. As for Shmi, she took the opportunity to disarm me with a firm grip, and called the imperials. The imperial officers quickly put the handcuffs on me and Han soon found himself in the same situation. This helplessness... It hurt so much... To see my loved ones in danger, including the one I loved so much, and I couldn't do anything about it.

Shmi: It's time, Captain, to say goodbye

Desperate, I tried to find a way out to make my beloved's captain escape this cruel fate.

Me: Wait! You don't have to follow this order. You are my sister, right? Couldn't you help Han out of this?

The face full of regret and sadness that she gave me, cut off my hopes. Chewie shouted in anger and tried to intervene. The smuggler waved him off, probably not wanting him to be shot.

Shmi: I'm sorry, little sister. There's nothing I can do. A deal is a deal and should be respected.

Me: This is not fair! How can...

Han: It's okay. Calm down, honey.

I looked at him in despair. Trying at all costs to hold him back. And the look of regret and acceptance tore at my heart. Then he looked at his faithful friend, begging him to watch over me. Then he turned to Vader's agent.

Han: I don't know if it's a lie, but you seem to believe it. So, if you really are his sister, can you watch over Leia for me?

Shmi: I promise, Captain Solo.

Then he looked at me, giving me the sweetest smile of all, his love evident in his eyes.

Me: Please, Han... I love you.

Han: I know.

Then the door opened and he had to step out, escorted by Bobba Fett and stormtroopers. I watched this, my heart torn with grief at the separation, while Chewie screamed his rage and grief at his helplessness.

Shmi: Let's get going. I can free your friend, if you want Leia.

Me: Why do you care?

She only sighed, before motioning for imperial soldiers to escort us while she took the sabers from my t...Mother. Handcuffed, we began to walk with Shmi and Lando as our escorts. Even though I was angry and tried to deny any connection to this woman, the Force whispered to me that it was true. Why was she serving the Empire? I had to know. So, as I walked silently to Vader's shuttle, I found a moment to ask her this question.

Me: Shmi?

Shmi: Have you calmed down yet?

I breathed in, containing my anger at her. After all, she was the one who commanded the ship that killed P...my uncle.

Me: Why do you serve the Empire?

Shmi: I don't serve the Empire. To tell you the truth, little sister, I hate Palpatine as much as the Jedi Order.