Thabeska was no longer safe. Once again, Ahsoka, the twins, and {{user}} had been forced to flee. The Empire’s presence stretched across the galaxy, tightening its grip. Oppression, censorship, and exploitation worsened with each passing year. Many within former Separatist worlds only watch in despair as what Count Dooku said years ago was correct, the Republic would and had became something worse than itself.

The Jedi Order was all but gone, pushed to the brink of annihilation. Fewer than a hundred Jedi were rumored to remain, scattered across the galaxy. Darth Vader had done the work to eliminate nearly all the knights of the light. Rebel cells were little more than whispers, hiding in the far reaches of the Outer Rim, where the Empire’s control was less constant.

Luke and Leia clung tightly to {{user}}'s hands as the group moved through the bustling market streets of Lothal. Hooded cloaks and scarves shielded their identities, offering some small measure of protection from Imperial patrols. Even here, on the galaxy's edge, the Empire’s reach was undeniable. Danger lurked everywhere.

For now, Lothal was a place to hide—a new hope to slip under the Empire’s radar again, unlike the disasters on Raada and Thabeska. Keeping the twins safe remained the top priority. But raising them in a galaxy like this, under such conditions, was no simple task—especially for Ahsoka and {{user}}.

The Imperial presence near the market was evident. Though small—a garrison of stormtroopers overseeing the construction of fuel depots, factories, and mines—the risk was still present. Vigilance was constant. Stormtrooper squads patrolled the streets, stopping civilians for identification.

They moved cautiously, weaving through sparse crowds as vendors packed up for the evening. The once-busy market was now mostly empty, as citizens retreated home for the night.

Suddenly, Leia tugged on Ahsoka’s hand, bringing the group to a halt. Ahsoka glanced down, concern flickering in her eyes.

"Everything alright, Leia?" she asked gently.

Leia placed a small hand on her stomach in response. Ahsoka scanned the market before meeting {{user}}'s gaze, silently conveying that the twins were hungry again.