Six Little Words
Of all the things I've done in my life this must be the worst. I've betrayed my padawan. Not an insignificant betrayal but a huge one, one that will change the fabric of his life and mine and Padme's.
I'd always believed I could bring him back, make him see sense; even forgive him his multitude of sins. Yeah, and for my next trick I'll bring Qui-Gon back from the dead. I never dreamed I would be the one who ended it, who effectively killed him and condemned billions to an era of fear and tyranny. Six little words and the destiny of the Universe is black.
I am just about the last of my kind. The Jedi Order has been overthrown, the Republic subverted and the Senate diminished. Palpatine runs the Galaxy now and the remnants of the Old Republic run for their lives.
Very few know this. Many think nothing has changed and only a select band know the truth about Palpatine's rise and the Jedi's fall. Many were glad to see us go, not understanding the consequences of our fall. Most don't care. A part of me wishes I could be around when they are made to care. A part of me wants to say I told you so, but I know that wouldn't achieve anything.
Padme has hidden herself. She is terrified of what Palpatine may do to her and her unborn children. She knows the importance of the twins and herself. I may have jeopardised that but maybe I've also strengthened her position. Anakin knows I am watching over her and I don't think he'll risk another confrontation with me. Last time I took his humanity, the next time I intend to take more.
But maybe I don't need to. Anakin is gone and a machine has been left in his place. He has lost his wife, his friends and me, the man he called father. He has lost all the feelings he ever possessed and is now shunned and feared. That should have been enough. For me it wasn't.
When we faced each other for the last time I knew what was at stake, knew I had to divorce myself from the grief and betrayal I felt for the Universe and for Ani. I didn't know that he knew about Padme and it rattled me. I panicked pure and simple. I knew what the consequences would be and still I said it.
"The baby isn't yours. It's mine."
Six little words and the Galaxy as I knew it was destroyed. Six little words and Anakin's heart and mind were shattered. Six little words that ruined so many lives. Six little words I wouldn't change even if I had the power.
Six little words that may be the truth.