Disclaimer: Don't own Star Wars or its characters. They belong to George Lucas. I own my OC's. No $ will be made from this; its written for my own enjoyment. No suing please!
Genres: Romance, Action/Adventure, Drama
Warnings: slight/some oocness, language, humor, violence???
Rating: PG-13 for language and future violence
Parings: Anakin/Padme, hints of Han/Leia, Sheena/???
Setting: 2 years after ROTJ
Summary: AU. One person holds the key that will enable Luke Skywalker & Leia Organa to save their parents. Will they use it?
Italics thoughts
blahForce talk/other stuff
-blah- flashback
---oo00oo--- change in time, scenery, conversation, etc.
Discoveries of the Heart: Chapter Three
His voice came as one that was soft, gentle, and almost like he admitted defeat. It surprised Sheena a bit. She unclasped her hands; only to bring them in front of her. Is he admitting defeat? No, it sounds like more he's confused; with all of the emotions running through him. I should answer his question, even though I don't want to. Her voice responded in a nice, subtle tone. "Yes. Your apprentice does indeed fall to the dark side in our timeline. I'm sorry Obi-Wan. I'm obligated not to say anymore of that right now. There is something that does however that needs to be said."
Blue-grey eyes widened. They cast their gaze on the figure near the wall. Anakin falls in their timeline? I shudder to think of the consequences. There's something she's not telling me about her timeline, but she doesn't want to speak any more of it. Is she trying to protect something that can't be said right now? Perhaps it would bring our downfall. No more of that. I should have trusted her judgment; I let what she said get to me and I didn't understand why. Now I do. Obi-Wan rose. "I suppose at a later time you will tell me everything? If that is case then I will until that time. However if the situation arises to the point where it needs to be said, you will tell it. You have a piece of information that you can actually tell me?" he spoke.
A smile tugged on her lips. Sheena turned around to nod. "This piece of information needs to be spoken in front of the Jedi Council."
"The Jedi Council?! Sheena, you sure about that? The Council only allows serious matters to be spoken on the floor." Obi-Wan said.
"I'm sure Obi-Wan. This is a serious matter; whether or not you believe it is your choice." Sheena responded.
"No more puzzles Sheena; I hate trying to figure out their meaning." Obi-Wan groaned.
Sheena shrugged. "If you say so. I have to tell the Council about Supreme Chancellor Palpatine." she said.
Chancellor Palpatine? Why would Sheena mention him to the Council? He's been doing a great job. I will have to admit at times I do find him to be a bit creepy. Especially when he walks up to you without you knowing it. And that stare that he gives people. It makes him so…evil. Blue-grey eyes met her own grey orbs. He let his hands drop to his side. "I don't understand Sheena, what about the Chancellor? I see that he's been a good job holding the Old Republic together." he said.
Sheena bit her lip to avoid answering him right there and then. She tried to hide her obvious expression of hurt. Really tried. He has everyone fooled including the Jedi. He's been it doing since he told a younger Padme to call for a vote of no confidence against the previous chancellor all of those years ago. I would gladly hand every piece of evidence I have to the Jedi. Then they would see the truth before they're very eyes: Palpatine was the Sith master they been looking for. But sadly I can't mention it here; it would only cause Obi-Wan to get angry again. Plus I wanted him and Anakin to find out with the Council. Her expression ended up being one of calmness.
"I can tell you doubt me Obi-Wan, but you have to trust my judgment again. I'm telling you this because of my knowledge of my timeline and him. Please give me a chance; I promise I will tell you everything you wish to know what that time comes. You have my word." Sheena pleaded softly.
"Your word is something I take very seriously Sheena. If you do not hold true to your word; then you shall not like the results. …I trust your judgment for some reason. I suppose now we need to find Anakin, Amidala, and those companions of yours. Despite my misgivings about their marriage, I am looking forward to seeing their children." Obi-Wan answered finally.
"Thank you Obi-Wan for trusting me. I have a feeling my companions have run into Anakin and Padme. I could offer to look for them with my…ah scientific skills; I wear a watch and so do they. All this is to do is touch a button and I'll know where they are." Sheena said, catching herself in time.
Obi-Wan raised an eyebrow; he noticed her slight mishap. Something that maybe a normal human wouldn't have noticed, but a Jedi would have. His Jedi senses told him she hadn't meant for that to slip. Is Sheena trying to imply something? She was about to suggest something else before changing it at the last second. I'll ask about it later. He shook his head. "No need to; I'll use my master/apprentice bond with Anakin to find out his location. Shouldn't take more then a minute." he said.
Sheena let out a sigh she been holding. She didn't want him to know she was a Jedi yet. Even though she might have to reveal it in front of the Jedi Council. Something just seemed to tell her not to reveal it yet. Perhaps it would draw his suspicions about me to be true and my trust with him would be lost. Or maybe any attempt to fix what we came here for.
Anakin? It's your master speaking. Hope you're not in any trouble my apprentice. Mind telling me where you are?
A moment passed then surprise flickered through the Force. No, I'm not in any trouble master. I'm in Padme's quarters, talking with some companions of Sheena's. You wouldn't be talking to her now, would you master? Luke told me he had a hunch you were. I hope you know where Padme's quarters are because I'm not telling you where they are.
Obi-Wan muttered something under his breath before turning to Sheena again. "Seems my apprentice is in Amidala's quarters as I feared. Although, he refused to tell me where they are. I knew she was coming to Coursant, but her room I do not know the location of it." he spoke.
Sheena addressed him with cool grey eyes. She let out a chuckle. "Don't worry about it Obi-Wan; we'll find it. Even if we have to use a datapad." she said.
"Oh, I don't think that will be necessary Sheena. Thanks to our bond; I can track Anakin down with it. I think sometimes he forgets that aspect of the bond. Let's head out." Obi-Wan laughed, walking over to the keypad and pressing a button.
The door slid open; allowing Obi-Wan and Sheena to leave. It closed after them. Sheena chose simply to follow him from behind. A smile tugged on her lips as she laughed silently. Looks like I was right after all.
---oo00oo---
A small frown formed on Anakin's lips as he looked at the occupants in the room. He didn't like the fact that his master had decided to contact him and ask him where he was; even though he answered anyway. Anakin had to smile though; he did have some fun.
"Something the matter, Anakin? Did someone contact you?" Padme asked, concerned.
Yeah and it goes by my master. Anakin snorted. "Obi-Wan contacted me; he asked me where I was. So I answered him. But I didn't tell him where this room was. Hope he has fun." he said.
Wonder if Sheena's with him? We haven't heard from her since splitting up to explore Coursant. Maybe she had her own fun. Luke hid a smile. He didn't want everyone to know he found his father's amusement funny. It didn't surprise him much, but to him it seemed like Anakin still possessed a streak for tormenting his master. Blue eyes found themselves on Leia and Han.
What a difference our father is in the past. I can see his stubbornness beneath his thirst for fun. I'm not sure how he managed to turn to the Dark Side of the Force. But then again we're dealing with Palpatine, who is really good at deceiving people. Perhaps Luke and I should take a peek at those datacards Sheena gave us, so we know about our parents and understand what happened to them. Leia met Luke's gaze with a smile and found Han's gaze. He looked amused and yet also annoyed at the same time. She thought that maybe Anakin reminded Han of Luke.
I do see the resemblance between Luke and his father Anakin. Still is weird is calling him by his first name. Sometimes Luke could be so like a kid; like Anakin is acting right now. Hard to believe that is Luke's father. And it's even weirder seeing Leia's mother, who looks exactly like her. This is all too much. Han definitely understood who Luke & Leia take after, it's just knowing whose personalities they take after. He did have an idea, but nothing for certain. He met Leia's gaze and he saw that she smiled at him. Truth he was annoyed and amused at the situation. I've never been known for patience, this isn't any different.
---oo00oo---
Obi-Wan and Sheena finally came to the door that contained Padme and the others courtesy of his bond with Anakin. He typed something in the keypad and the door slid open. Inside, five pairs of eyes turned to stare at the newcomers. A heavy silence seemed to pass between them before voices broke out.
"I knew it! Sheena I had a feeling you met up with Obi-Wan. Otherwise you wouldn't have found us." Han said.
"You didn't know that for sure Han. Besides I'm sure she could have found Anakin or Amidala." Leia stated.
"I agree with Leia. I'm sure you did Han." Luke added, grinning.
Padme knew introductions were no longer needed; the last member of their group had arrived. She took note that Sheena's hair was darker then her own brown hair and her eyes a lighter color; namely a soft grey. She smiled to herself. She had a feeling Sheena possessed a quiet authority and that was all by her own judgment. Something she had practiced on. Secrets are flying everywhere and Sheena appears to be the source of them all. I trust their judgment that the truth WILL come out eventually; it's just I wonder why. Is it because it will affect us here? Enough talk; there must be a reason Obi-Wan came with Sheena.
"You must be Sheena, correct? I have a feeling I don't have to introduce myself; you would probably know my name already. I'm wondering why you're here though. And it might have to do with Anakin being in here." Padme spoke.
Sheena just simply nodded; allowing Padme to draw the conclusion out. She hadn't planned on explaining herself to Anakin and Padme; she knew Luke and the others would have mentioned something about her already. Which was why she was about to have Obi-Wan tell everyone what their plans were. It wasn't she couldn't do it herself, it's…well she wanted him to say it because it would get more of a positive reaction from Anakin.
"Why we're here…that's easy really. I'll have Obi-Wan explain." Sheena responded.
She wants me to explain? I wonder--- no I know why she wants me to say it. Anakin may not want to come with us; he might want to talk with Sheena and get some answers. Something Sheena is not up to at the moment. Blue-grey eyes regarded everyone before settling on Anakin.
"Sheena has requested that we take her to the Jedi Council. There is something she wishes to say to them." Obi-Wan answered.
Anakin bit his lip; he was a bit mad. He wanted to know what Sheena planned to say to the Council before they went there. Maybe he would be in tune with the topic on hand. But there was no objecting to this; Obi-Wan would not allow it. He'd lecture me about talking back to a Jedi master, blah, blah, blah. Which is why I'm not objecting out loud; only in my thoughts.
"…Alright. I don't suppose there is any way I can skip coming with you to the Council?" Anakin said, his eyes pleading.
"Absolutely not Anakin; you are my apprentice and I your master. You might as well lead the way." Obi-Wan replied.
Muttering something under his breath, Anakin walked out the door followed by Padme. Luke and Leia shared a small smile with each other and left after them.
"You might as well join Luke and Leia, Obi-Wan. It might be a nice thing for you." Sheena commented.
"With all of this going on, I never had the chance to react to your companions Sheena. Thanks for reminding me." Obi-Wan stated, walking out the door.
Only Han and Sheena were left in the room.
"I'd think we better get going or we'll get lost." Han said.
"I'd doubt we would get lost Han, but you have a point. Let's go." Sheena responded.
The last two occupants left the room with the door sliding behind them.
---oo00oo---
The datapad before him was slammed shut. His eyes burned a fiery black color. He figured since he was in his private chambers, he would look up her profile. Something to check up on. And something Palpatine didn't count on: her profile didn't exist on their database. That left him with nothing to look upon to unlocking the secrets she harbored. This didn't bore well with him.
"How odd, everyone is on this database; I'm sure of it. It could mean she is using a false id or maybe simply has it hidden. Either way it must mean Blake has some interesting secrets not willing to share. Another thing to add to my list. My plans with Anakin Skywalker will continue regardless of her working for me. It looks about an hour has passed. It felt longer for some reason. This talk is something I am looking forward to. It may reveal something I can use against her."
Palpatine smiled; he was done here for now. He figured it would be more practical if he was in his office; waiting for her. After he did have a reputation to keep up. He rose from the seat; tucking away the datapad. His robes fluttered as he walked out the door. Keeping a sharp gaze out, Palpatine started walking back to his office. What should I have her work on? Perhaps one of my projects? Or maybe a new one? So many decisions to make. I'm sure an hour can fix that problem.
---oo00oo---
Obi-Wan caught up to Luke and Leia. He uttered a small gasp, earning two stares. Everything that he had heard from Sheena was indeed correct. Before him he saw Luke; who clearly inherited Anakin's hair and eyes. But he could tell that Luke had some features that set him apart from his apprentice. He moved along next to Leia. He saw the resemblance between her and Amidala. Just like Luke, Leia took after Amidala; from her hair to eye color. Now the question seemed to be: who did they take after in terms of personality? All they were doing was walking. That wasn't something to go by.
"I hope you don't mind me asking, but who do you two take after? I mean who do your personalities take after?" Obi-Wan asked, striking up a conversation.
Is Obi-Wan really talking with us? I'd thought he would be mad; considering if he knows about who we are. Luke sent.
A light chuckled echoed through. I really can't believe it either Luke. Maybe he got over the initial shock with Sheena. That would explain why he didn't react to our presence in Amidala's room. We should grill Sheena later to learn how he reacted.
I'm not sure how he reacted Leia; of course I know he'd probably explode and yell. Then again we don't know anything about Obi-Wan's younger days; only when he was an old man. How about we take a peek at those datacards tonight? I think the sooner we know about our parents; it might be easier to conceal our surprise should it ever come out.
I only saw him on the first Death Star and when he was struck down. You may have a point Luke; it might be easier if we know. Being caught off guard is not a good thing especially since we're in the past. Obi-Wan may be waiting for our answer.
Luke sent an apologetic smile at Obi-Wan, who only smiled in understanding. "We talk with each other all time through the Force; though it annoys Han to no end. He makes a point of saying it too." he laughed before continuing. "Well, I think I take after Anakin. I got his looks, his impatience, and perhaps his taste in adventure. As for Amidala, I'm not really sure."
Should have known he'd take after Anakin. He's right; I can't tell what trait he inherited from Amidala, but maybe some time I'll know. Obi-Wan shifted his gaze over to Leia.
"Han doesn't like it when we talk in the Force, so we do it to annoy him. His face gets all annoyed; his posture gets more rigid and he lets out a displeased snort. He's been lecturing us ever since we told him we were twins, who could talk through a bond. It's obvious I inherited Amidala's hair and eyes, but I think I also have her understanding of things. From what I've seen of Anakin and how he talks; I can't really say for sure if I inherited anything from him. Then again we don't know him well enough yet. Sheena never mentioned stuff about your younger days. Could you tell us about them? Our-- I mean you don't have to tell us right now. Sometime later would be fine." Leia said, catching herself before slipping out something that wasn't supposed to be said. Yet.
At this Obi-Wan rose an eyebrow. Sheena had done it and know Leia had done it. Was there something they didn't want to tell him? But Sheena promised to tell him everything when the time came. He let out a quiet sigh. Normally I don't like secrets, but this is how Sheena and her companions will be until I hear everything. Until that time comes, I have accept the things I'm told even though I don't like it. Mentioning about his younger days brought both good and bad memories. Something Obi-Wan didn't want to deal with right now. Now's not the time for that. I may be older, but that doesn't lessen my feelings about my memories. I've moved on as best as I could.
His blue-grey penetrated the gaze of Luke and Leia's while shaking his head. "Now's not the time for that. Perhaps when the time is right; I'll tell you two about my younger days." Obi-Wan's voice spoke, the tone cool but stern.
"I understand Obi-Wan. We have questions to ask and so do you." Leia said.
Further ahead, Anakin and Padme walked along. This really gave Padme a chance to ponder about all of the things she thought about in her mind without having to voice them. She accepted the fact that Luke, Leia, and Han gave her and Anakin enough information to be satisfied. Which it did, but now the Sheena had joined their group, she wondered what she told Obi-Wan. She knew it had to be what they said to her, but still she wanted to know. Sheena must know something real important that it must be mentioned to the Jedi Council. Ever since Anakin has told me about them, I can see why he doesn't like going in there unless he has to. For some reason, I want to know what Sheena said to Obi-Wan. Sure she probably told him about Luke & Leia and their connection to Anakin and I. I just found it strange neither of them mentioned anything about it. I wouldn't blame them I guess. When you're thinking about mostly one thing; all others are buried deep until you remember them. Just something to tuck aside for now.
Her gaze wandered over to Anakin; who looked extremely annoyed. His face wore that look that said 'I don't want to do this but my master made me do it'. Padme hid a small chuckle with her hand. She noticed with every step he took; his boots made a louder noise on the floor.
"I didn't realize you were upset about Obi-Wan making you lead all of us to the Jedi Council; I'd thought you were okay with it." Padme stated.
His thoughts were focused on his master. Since Obi-Wan had told him to lead everyone to the Council, he held his tongue back and said it was okay. Something in him told him that Obi-Wan should have allowed him to have a say in it. A somewhat rational thought replied that it would bring a fight between him and Obi-Wan; something that Anakin didn't want Padme to know. I know she doesn't like when I play pranks on Obi-Wan, but sometimes he so strict and I need to have some fun. It's not like I almost kill him; I love to see his reaction. He falls for them rather easily. He could have though let me say something in regards in leading everyone. Why couldn't he have lead the group? It would be easier for me to spend more time with Padme. Sheena's going to say something to the Jedi Council? What could so important to let them know?
Padme's statement brought Anakin out of his thoughts. He looked over at her and he sighed. "I'm not upset Padme, I'm just frustrated he didn't let me say something. He just commanded me to do it and I usually don't like that." he replied.
"I'm sure he didn't mean to do it that way; you know it's being a Jedi master. Don't forget what has happened to him Ani; he has painful memories that he'd rather not mention to anyone. Not even to us. He has his own way of dealing with it. Don't so hard on him, try to get along with him. He is your master after all." Amidala responded.
"I suppose Padme, but still. Sometimes I think he still treats me like a kid." Anakin muttered.
Her gaze never changed but her face did. "Anakin, don't be like this. Now's not the time. We are leading everyone to the Jedi Council, aren't we? After all Sheena asked Obi-Wan if she could and he agreed to it. Won't you trust his judgment or even Sheena's?" Padme said.
His blue gaze flashed but returned to normal. "I suppose I could Padme, but I don't like it." he said.
"You have something interesting to tell me Sheena? Like how you knew my name without even asking what it was?" Han questioned.
So now he asks me about it. I wondered if he noticed. Took him long enough, but then again we were focused on one thing. Sheena laughed out loud. She knew it had been coming. Just waiting for the perfect time to be asked. And now was that time. She stopped laughing when Han gave her one of his stern looks.
"I'm sorry Han, I didn't mean to laugh like that. I mean people ask me that all the time. The reason I already know your name is because while researching information on Luke & Leia's parents, I discovered your name as in connection with the two twins. Well you did help destroy both Death Stars and collapsed the Empire after all. And it was done by a rebel group. But enough talk about that. I have a tendency to do my homework before hand so I am a step ahead of everyone; I'm just that way. I take surprises as they come. How are you taking all of this stuff about them being twins and all?" Sheena responded.
Somebody who does their homework, huh? No wonder she's smart; she's a step ahead of everything. Sheena must spend a lot of time on doing that. Han broke into a grin after seeing her face soften up. To his estimates she didn't appear to be a Jedi, but then again he was no expert. That he left to Luke and Leia. Trying to gauge her reaction was tough; her face didn't openly reveal them. Something he knew took time to get it right; the only thing he could think of was that she wore that as a mask. A mask to hide her true feelings. But why would she do that? Wearing a mask over your emotions is okay I guess. Maybe she does it to keep her enemies guessing at her next move. I'll ask her sometime about it; maybe Leia and Luke would like to know.
"Usually when I hear someone who does their homework ahead of time tend to be really, really smart. And it seems you fit that bill Sheena. Not that I'm making fun of you or anything. How I'm doing with all of this Jedi stuff? It boggles my mind. I don't believe in the whole concept of the Force; I see it like a religion. But that is who Luke and Leia are. I may not believe in it, but I will help them in any way I can. Honestly, I was shocked when Leia told me she sensed Luke get off the second Death Star. I thought she was going crazy or something. She smiled at me and said that Luke was her twin brother. I always assumed that her and Luke were going to be an item, but after finding that out I know why I thought like that. It probably was due to their being brother and sister that it seemed they like each other. Not in a sick way of course. I'm itching for some action. I hope something pops where I can be right there." Han replied.
Sheena shook her head at Han's comment about action. "Oh, I think we've had enough action for right now, don't you think? At least that's my opinion. Strange isn't it? It may have been due to their brother/sister bond that they acted that way Han. I can only hope that the Council takes my words very seriously and act upon it. Otherwise, I don't know how we should go about it. I'll have to talk you three to see what you told Padme and Anakin. Then I'll tell you about what I said to Obi-Wan. Let's pray that I don't have to prove my words." she said.
"I don't know about this Council Sheena, but sounds like you need them to accept your words. Our job would be harder wouldn't it?" Han said.
"Yes. The Council needs to accept my words. I really don't want things to go sour on us Han. That is something we can't afford here in the past. Wish me the best of luck." Sheena answered.
Anakin finally stopped in front of the doors of the Jedi Council; his blue gaze searching. Padme had stopped along side him and glanced back to the others to see they had stopped as well. Her gaze went back to Anakin.
"Well Anakin we're here." Padme spoke.
Of course.Anakin turned on his heel so he faced the others. His blue gaze sweeping across to all of their faces.
"This is the room where the Jedi Council resides. Master? Now what?" Anakin stated, his voice calm.
Obi-Wan hid his smile. He had secretly hoped that Anakin wasn't too mad at him. Especially since dumping on him to lead everyone. I wouldn't have minded leading the pack, but I wanted to talk with Luke and Leia. It might have sounded selfish, but I figured it would be better this way. I didn't hear any out right objections, but I'm sure he's displeased.
"It would be appropriate if Anakin and I went in first. I don't think they would be pleased if I just let you in Sheena with no kind of warning or something. The Council can be rather harsh about things like that. It shouldn't take long. Anakin?" Obi-Wan said.
"I'm ready master." Anakin answered, though hiding his displeasure with a nod.
Obi-Wan and Anakin stepped through the doors.
Sheena leaned against the wall; her eyes just aimlessly looking around. Luke, Leia, and Han stood off in a group; talking about things. Padme chose this time to study Sheena in more detail. She felt that she needed to come over and talk with her. To her, it seemed that something hung on Sheena's mind. Padme started walking over.
I really hope that I can come in. This takes some of the load off me, but not everything. Let's not forget the fact I'm now working for Palpatine. Like I said before, if I didn't accept his invitation it may have signaled to him that I wasn't telling the truth. Or-- Crap! How much time do I have until I met with him? Sheena glanced at her watch; only an hour had passed. She sighed in relief.
"Something wrong Sheena? You seem relieved for some reason. Everything alright?" Padme asked, slightly worried.
Her head snapped up to see Amidala watching with a worried gaze. She shook her head. "No, I'm fine Amidala. I remembered something very important that I have to do after my business with the Jedi Council. That's all." Sheena answered, laughing slightly.
Eyeing Sheena for a more seconds, Padme looked away. Something seemed to be bothering her. Sheena's tone made her wonder something. Was she hiding something from everyone?
Tell me what you think.
-Destiny's Light-