A/N: Thank you for your patience. I hulled a$$ to get this to you guys before Thanksgiving. Happy Turkey day to whoever celebrates it!
Chapter 16: In the room where it happens.
Yavin 4
The rebellion resided on the remnants of an old agriculture research lab initially intended to study this planet's unique lifeforms and botany because, of course, why else would anyone want to set foot on this humid, mucky wet ball of a world. The place was an erratic layout. The base stood as a patchwork of buildings. A chaotic mess that shouldn't work, but it did. Rushed and haphazardly built structures were used as storage, with some nails not thoroughly pounded in, and stood in stark contrast to the state of the art security systems nestled next to them, gleaming in their newness and shine, presumably newly "borrowed" from the Empire. Domed buildings with ceilings coated abundantly by sweeping windows bringing in the warm sunlight as the occupants could look out longingly, in awe of the formidable jungle that surrounded them. Peppering the grounds every few buildings, these domed structures served in memory of the previously conducted research.
Among the eclectic spattering of mismatched buildings, there was one that stood out amongst them all. Looming right in front of Anakin laid the most formidable of all the buildings with its cold, durasteel lined unpainted walls enclosed by thick double doors. Peering up at the two story building, there was nothing friendly or inviting about it, serving more as a mudhorn herd-like sturdy barrier to protectively guard whatever was inside. Without any windows to gander into, he was left staring absently at the flashing security panel next to the door. Much more advanced than most would use in the Outer Rim and yet not something he recognized as Republic designed. Anakin concluded this intricate security system has been updated from the failures of its predecessors and probably Imperial in origin, given its configuration. But it was also much more elaborate than he had ever seen, for sure. It was complex and cleverly designed, signaling the significance and the invaluable nature of its contents. The thick durasteel encasing suggested that this building was meant to be the last to survive a potential assault on the base.
The Command Center. The heart and soul of the Rebellion.
Wedged closely between Obi Wan on one side and Ahsoka on the other, Anakin could feel the others even from the secured door. And yet, despite what comfort he should have with both his long lost friends by his side, he couldn't help the feeling of dread brewing inside him. Instead, their presence made him feel some impending imminent doom, like a prisoner being brought to his execution. Most likely not what the two had intended, but that's just how Anakin felt. What laid beyond that door did not excite him at all. He knew and braced himself for the inevitable reunion, but that mental preparation didn't seem to damper the reluctance stewing in his veins. Once again, he found himself rubbing the pendant through his robes, the comforting lines of the familiar japor snippet settling his racing nerves. It represented the heart and soul of Anakin's world, so it fueled him with renewed courage. This was for them.
While Anakin was lost in thought, Ahsoka stepped forward and performed a complicated multistep password which included a typed code, voice recognition, and eye scan. With the degree of complexity she had to demonstrate, Anakin assumed the meeting was highly classified. Curious, that they would let someone like Anakin frolic in their folly?
After the doors thrust open dramatically, leaving a gust of cold, dry air to plaster across their faces in much needed relief from the humidity, Ahsoka ushered them inside, taking a moment to squeeze Anakin's forearm in silent solidarity. Smiling at her, it was something he greatly appreciated.
After the softest of clicks silently secured them inside, the sight displayed before him grounded him in his steps, taken back by what he saw. As eclectic as the buildings were outside, he wasn't sure what he was expecting in here, but the colorful array of personalities intrigued him. A slightly familiar display, he had helped the gorilla warfare on Onderon many years ago, and some were dressed here as such-ragged and worn, the garments were probably all that they owned. But alongside them were some recognizable well decorated generals and captains he vaguely recalled from the Republic. Some others were well dressed and probably very well off nonmilitary personnel. While other decorated military figures in the room were dressed in less familiar garb, he assumed they were from Separatists planets. Surprisingly, he even recognized some senators who he wouldn't expect to join in on such a campaign. At that moment, the hairs on the back of his neck stood up as he realized the serious nature of this Rebellion, and it left an uncomfortable swirling churn in his stomach as he absently flicked his bangs out of his eyes.
Stepping deeper into the room, that momentary feeling faded when his eye caught the two central, still figures, that seemed to fade into the background and yet hard to miss at the same time, planted directly right in front of the holoprojector. Catching the brief shocked look on their faces that lasted for less than a second when they saw him was oddly satisfying to Anakin, causing him to walk a little taller with his chin up. Then Obi Wan boldly passed Anakin, with his robe billowing behind him as he advanced in front of them, Anakin and Ahsoka following faithfully behind.
With careful and vigilant eyes, Anakin observed as his former Master made eye contact with the green creature floating in his pod. A subtle nod was exchanged between them, and he noticed a slightly increased strut to Obi Wan's gait afterward. This caused Anakin to silently laugh to himself. Suddenly, it made sense why Obi Wan was so adamant about Anakin landing the ship. Always staying two steps ahead of everyone, Obi Wan wanted to stick it to them. A mercurial grin broke Anakin's stoic face at the thought. Despite the current unfortunate situation, he might just like this version of Obi Wan better, even if his broodiness trumped Anakin on his worse days. And it made him ponder…was he really ever this bad? No! He was way more charming.
Next, Anakin's attention was drawn to how Obi Wan maneuvered himself next to him, almost looming over him, not in a critical manner, but more protective and endearing. It was a physical show to everyone in the room that the older man had Anakin's back in every way, and if they wanted to get to him, they would have to go past the broodmaster. On the other side, Ahsoka stood next to him with her arm crossed and chest puffed out, equally challenging. It was a touching display, and this slightly eased the weariness in Anakin's gut.
The figure standing next to Master Yoda's pod was dressed in his usual Jedi gear and brown cloak. The unique eyes and mouth mask were as distinguishable as the kel dor's face that hid underneath it. This didn't surprise Anakin, nor was he upset and maybe a little relieved. There was a part of him that was actually glad that Master Plo somehow survived Order 66. Perhaps, one of his loyal wolfpack had a faulty chip or strength of will to resist the command, even for a second. The skillful kel dor would only need the briefest of chances to make his escape and find his path into the Rebellion. Either way, Anakin had always felt more at ease with him than the other Masters on the Jedi Council, especially Master Windu.
Ever mindful of all the beings in the room, the knowing eyes which recognized Anakin took their direction from the Grand Master, and when Master Yoda did nothing and remained at ease, so did the rest of them. Master Plo stood equally unfazed by his presence, choosing to focus on the mission report being discussed.
A tall elderly admiral stood in front of the holoprojector, completely undeterred by the new guests as he continued his report. With this action, Anakin guessed the room was already briefed with their attendance. So the three settled in and listened.
"And so two hours ago, we received word from Ghost crew that their mission at Fort Anaxes was a success."
Loud cheers erupted around the room as the admiral raised his hand to bring the chatter down.
"Several crates of medical supplies, explosives with yes…thermal detonators were obtained."
A lone cheer echoed in the room, followed by light chuckling.
"And three containers of coaxium," the admiral continued.
This caused a hum of approval and awe to reverberate through the room. Apparently, this was what a good mission looked like.
"Needless to say, the Ghost crew executed their mission particularly well and exceeded our expectations. I believe we should consider extending more sensitive tasks to them in the future." The admiral looked up and surveyed the room.
The recommendation elicited a nod of approval from several of the higher commands. Seemingly satisfied with the response, the admiral tapped a button on the holoprojector, and a hologram of the planet Mimban appeared.
The following report seemed more grim and serious as his face sobered dramatically before he continued the debriefing.
"Project Moonfall: extraction of a low level informant that sent out a distress signal over one week ago. Progress updates revealed that the planet's Imperial reinforcement was light, as expected, and the team landed without causalities. Given the nature of the mission, it was imperative that they were out of contact in case of potential stealth tracking." The admiral paused before taking a severe, deep breath before continuing. "They went dark twelve hours ago, as expected, and we still have four hours before we anticipated to reestablish contact."
An awkward and uneasy pause and a chilling silence covered the room, and this caused Anakin to raise a curious eyebrow. Perhaps there was more to the admiral's hesitation.
Finally, someone spoke up, answering Anakin's silent inquiry. "Do we have reason to believe he might be there?"
Briefly, Anakin caught the swift glances of a senator and the two Jedi looking at him before returning their gaze to the admiral. Interesting…
A hard frown marred the admiral's face before he spoke. The concerned expression spoke volumes to his unvoiced reservations about this mission. "This informant isn't of the highest importance to the Galactic Empire. At most, maybe one of the lower level inquisitors may have been informed, but there was no indication during the last transmission that this was the case." He straightened up. "It is important that we remain objective and optimistic about this mission. We cannot allow our fear of the shadows to deter our initiatives." There was a finality in his voice that chastised the worries that teased the room.
A deep croaky voice broke the silence. "The Force is with them, we will trust." Master Yoda replied.
Instantaneously, this earned a suppressed snicker from Anakin, only noticeable by the people standing next to him. Sure enough, Ahsoka raised an amused eyebrow but did nothing else.
The admiral moved on. "Final update, the aracton* breeding season is almost over."
Another uncomfortable silence filled the room, but this time with agitated shifting. Finding this very amusing, Anakin couldn't contain the smile on his face recognizing their discomfort.
Another officer spoke up with a firm voice cutting through the tension and concerned whispers. "We'll heighten the security fences around the base and fine tune for smaller creatures. The breedlings are more sensitive to heat exposure so if you encounter one…use a flame."
At this point, some soft rumblings echoed around the room from the palpable distress. Even Anakin couldn't help the shiver that ran up his spine. In the short time he had spent on this planet, he had only encountered the adult forms of the native insect. It was hard to imagine smaller versions of them skittering around, and, honestly, he really didn't want to know. Really, really didn't want to know.
And then, the holoprojector clicked off, plunging the room into darkness before the lights came back on. Surprised by the abrupt conclusion, Anakin blinked several times as his eyes adjusted to the lighting.
The admiral spoke up one more time. "That concludes today's briefing. Meeting's adjourned."
Watching the various people rise to leave the room, Anakin couldn't help but study the different faces and the richness of clothing they wore versus the tattered garbs of others-of opulence and oppression- and the opposite way of life they must have lived previously yet now found common ground in this Rebellion. A part of him wished the Republic was this united back then. Maybe…no. It wasn't worth thinking about such things. As he wisped the thought away, he courteously stepped aside, making way for them to pass. Some politely nodded to the three of them, and others ignored them completely, almost disdainfully. Which made Anakin think that not everyone liked having Jedi as part of the Rebellion.
It was hard to believe at first.
Watching the young man across the room, he overheard Ahsoka speaking with Master Yoda and Master Plo about him, but still, he couldn't believe his eyes! Is that really him? A ghost made into flesh?
A part of Bail Organa felt remorse for not trusting his dear friend, Obi Wan, more when he was convinced that Anakin Skywalker was out there. Slightly alarmed when he first saw Anakin walk in, Bail quickly pacified his concerns. The senator from Alderaan may not be Force sensitive, but he was astute as they came and understood the minimal threat with Skywalker's presence. Especially with everyone silently agreeing to the slightly uncomfortable truce that filled the room. Still, he was always a curious man and preferred to see things for himself. So he walked himself over.
With a couple easy, large strides, Bail came up to them and caught Obi Wan's eye. A flash of triumph and also forgiveness in his friend's gaze made Bail feel even worse about his mistrust, but he decided he would address this with his old friend at another time. Nodding briefly, the two said their hellos as he greeted them. "Obi Wan." Bail offered.
"Senator Organa, I'm happy to see you here. I presume you were able to steal time away from the Imperial senate?" Obi Wan calmly inquired as they clasped forearms in their customary way.
Bail chuckled. "Alderaan is a peaceful planet with no weapons. I also make it a point to grovel shamelessly in front of the Emperor when the situation presents itself, making me the least of the Emperor's concerns." He grinned slyly.
Ahsoka crossed her arms. "And yet, underneath that pale wrinkly sad excuse of a face Emperor, you've been out in the Galaxy recruiting idealists to join the Rebellion." She hummed.
He grinned widely. "If I remember correctly, it took you a very long time to trust that I wasn't trying to turn you in to the Empire. So I must be good at playing both sides."
"Ha! You're just a good politician. That's all." Ahsoka joked lightly as Anakin watched them interact.
Seizing the moment, Bail finally turned his attention to Anakin, seeing the slightly jealous look in the young man's eyes as he bantered with his former Padawan.
"Anakin Skywalker, it's been a long time." Bail greeted cordially as he drew his arm out for a welcome.
Looking at the proffered hand, Anakin hesitated for a moment before deciding to clasp forearms with his wife's old colleague and one of her most trusted friends. "Senator Organa. It's good to see you in good health."
Testing the waters, Bail pointed causally to Anakin's face. "That's a nasty bruise by your eye. I wonder who gave that to you?" Turning, he threw Obi Wan a joking smirk expectingly. Obi Wan coughed lightly before looking away, affirming Bail's suspicions as he continued his politician's composure.
Not missing a beat, Anakin answered for his old master as he shrugged absently. "Just worked some stuff out." The tone was casual, but Bail observed how untroubled Anakin's expression was. It was open and honest, and it spoke to Anakin's state of mind; he didn't seem to care what Bail thought or what assumptions he would make. Curious.
Bail nodded respectfully, choosing not to say anything as he thought. Perhaps, some change was to be expected, but this was definitely not the cavalier young man he remembered-full of bravado and desperate for something to prove. Now, here stood a weathered man that learned some hard lessons of what was important in life. That much Bail could tell.
"We all needed time to figure things out," Bail decided on, no reason to stir the pot any further at the moment.
Unimpressed, Anakin squinted his eyes before he clicked his tongue and shrugged it off.
The Imperial Senator smiled. There's was a lot Bail liked about Anakin even back when he was still young and wild. Of course, he couldn't fault him as he was once rash and short tempered. Although the events at the Temple in those last days of the Republic didn't sit well with him, he couldn't believe it was the same person he was staring at, and yet there was something he could understand from all this. A passion for something, a drive so strong to cause reckless young men to do foolish things. He could relate to the intense passions and the foolish things he did to court his wife, Breha. He was young and in love and blinded by the innocence of it all. But why was he thinking about that now?
Then it hit him. There was something that stirred the back of his mind that wouldn't leave him alone. Seeing the young man reminded him of someone else he knew who was just as idealistic and passionate. Of her.
Anakin was her, as he often joked, exclusive Jedi protector. Without fail, he would somehow always be appointed to her whenever she needed a Jedi escort and often stayed much longer than decorum necessitated. The Senator from Alderaan loved poking the Nubian Senator about this every chance he got. It was a lighthearted tease as Senator Amidala would chastise him each time, stating her Jedi was just a good friend. Yet, after the conversations filtered into more serious topics, Bail noticed how her face would glow, and a faint pink blush tinted her cheeks long afterward. Seeing Anakin brought up so many memories of her, mostly good but also included some worry and curiosity, which he promptly quieted down. To be honest, he didn't really want to know what happened to her. Well, that's not true. It was more it was better if he didn't know, for her sake and for whatever secrets she took with her. But seeing Anakin here in the flesh warmed his heart and gave him some comfort about his old colleague, Padmé Amidala, and what ultimately happened to her.
Clearing his throat, Senator Organa took a step back before he continued. "Well. I best take my leave. Otherwise, the Emperor will actually grow suspicious of me." He smiled wily, his eyes dancing with mirth. With an elegant bow to the three force wielder, he stood back up to take his leave, making sure to connect with Obi Wan's gaze. Bail intended to properly apologize to him when the time was right to his old and dear friend.
What a strange turn of events?
Somewhat bewildered, Anakin watched curiously as Senator Organa made his departure. Though not force sensitive, the good senator was a master at shielding his thoughts, and this was another example of his discipline. As Anakin remembered, it was always hard to decipher what he was truly thinking. Not that Anakin thought he was a major threat, but there was something about him he could never completely trust. Reluctantly, he supposed this was the nature of all politicians as he knew Obi Wan would wholeheartedly agree with this conclusion. Something he wasn't particularly overjoyed to be engaging with again.
The room had cleared out steadily, and now only four people remained in the room, with the space feeling more expansive. Turning his head, Anakin's focus was on the central console when Ahsoka gave him a hard slap on the back, a hard and LOUD slap. THUMP!
"Fun stuff, huh? Just like old times!" Ahsoka peppered lightly, her face bright with delight but carried an edge of caution with it.
Anakin grunted in response. "Yeah, like old times."
Like one of the meetings with the Grand Army of the Republic. Like the pointless war that dragged on year after year and all the death and destruction that came with it. Reflexively, Anakin clenched both fists by his side at the memory. His cybernetic arm whirling sharply with the movement. It didn't escape his notice the wearily glances coming from his companions, but he didn't care. Not that he was intentionally trying to make a point, but more that they should know how uncomfortable he was here. The roll in his stomach continued as the voice inside his head protested his presence here and the entire situation.
Instinctively, Ahsoka leaned in closer. "You'll feel better once you talk to him." She suggested, knowing what he was thinking. A habit of hers that was still relevant even now and he found himself missing having her around.
"Thanks, Ahsoka," Anakin said gratefully, his hand squeezing her shoulder, and she smiled warmly, with her shoulders tense suppressing the giddy feeling she had inside. Leaving him to his conversation, she turned and exited with the others.
Next, Obi Wan coughed lightly to draw his attention. "I'll be waiting outside if you need me." He said sternly, with a firm hand on Anakin's shoulder, as a comforting gesture of continued silent support. He guessed Obi Wan was serious with his promise. Maybe to make up for the past? This contrasted with his time as Obi Wan's Padawan and how declared promises came with a note of hesitation in Anakin's mind. That was no longer there as he saw Palpatine's lies for what they were. Now, he felt a deeper connection and trusted his former Master more than he had ever before in his life. It was weird and confusing, but mostly, Anakin just felt thankful.
"I'll meet you guys outside soon. This shouldn't take long." Anakin replied, at least he believed he wouldn't. He only had a few things to get off his chest and intended for this conversation to be as brief and concise as possible. No more mind games.
As the doors slid close behind his friends, Anakin made his way over to Master Yoda floating in his pod near the console. If Plo Koon survived, then of course, so did the Grand Master. A part of him was curious. What has the last 5 years had done to the over 800 year old being? Had he ever seen something like this happen in all his years? Anakin mused to himself, Sheev Palpatine was the Sith Lord right under his nose, and Yoda was completely oblivious despite their many meetings. Did the wise old creature even suspect it, or was he utterly surprised? Anakin couldn't help but snicker to himself. There was a sad triumph in being able to prove his former mentor was as fallible as the rest of us lesser creatures.
Right before reaching Yoda, Anakin clasped his hand over his heart, the sturdy silhouette of the japor snippet hidden under the layers of his tunic, and breathed in the love of his family while finding comfort as he slowly released his breath. Of course, he would be lying to himself if he didn't admit a part of him didn't want to do this. It was a conversation he dreaded despite the inevitableness. Although true to his nature, he would rather face and deal with an uncomfortable situation head on than lay in wait. At least it'll be on his own time and…on his own terms.
Which made him question...How much did Yoda know about his situation? Deliberating this, the secretive nature of Obi Wan may not have disclosed much about his hunt for Anakin. Or kept anyone updated on his findings until he actually found him. But then again, he could see Obi Wan seeking Master Yoda for guidance. He was sure Obi Wan was confused with all the conflicting information he uncovered during his search. Despite being the one going through it, even Anakin had a hard time explaining what happened. It was a blurred series of unfortunate events.
Despite his resentment towards Yoda, Anakin did have a few conversations where he felt understood, maybe. He was never really sure, and doubt always lingered in the back of Anakin's mind, adding to his resentment. Then there was that time he had come to Yoda for advice about Padmé. His muscles tensed in response, and thinking about it stirred a deep bitterness in his veins. At the time, the situation was far more personable than reasonable, and Anakin couldn't accept the advice given. It left him feeling cold and abandoned. Under the crushing weight of despair, he turned to anyone who would offer any help. No matter how costly.
Clenching his fists by his sides, boldly, Anakin stride over beside the small green creature's pod. Still and calm, Yoda's attention stayed focused on the map before him, but Anakin knew the former Grand Master sensed his presence. Settling next to his floating pod, they both starred absently into the powered down holoprojector. It would be easy to assume the tiny creature was too lost in thought to notice him except for the subtle glance over.
To show how much he had matured since the last time they met, Anakin was proud for the several seconds he waited before speaking up.
"You're ok with me here?" Yeah, Anakin Skywalker wasn't playing any games.
Yoda sighed, his large green ears slumped down as his shoulder rolled forward. In a surprising gesture, his age showed through in that rare moment, and it made Anakin uncomfortable with how vulnerable Yoda appeared.
"Five years against the Empire we fought. Here and there with small strides." Shaking his head as Yoda finally turned to look at Anakin, it shocked him further how weary Yoda looked. "Not enough," the former Grand Master concluded.
Frowning, Anakin pressed on. "So you still think I'm this Chosen one in the prophecy?"
Bracing himself for what came next, he wasn't expecting very much, but he wasn't prepared to hear it either.
"Arrogant, the Force favored us, we thought. Callous, we were the way we treated you. From this battle gone, you were and changed nothing. Unbalanced the Force is. The key you are to everything, this I see now."
It would be easy to leave it like that as he would have in the past, and it was as complimentary as anything Yoda had ever said to him. Just submit to the wise words out of reverence, and maybe a little bit of fear, however, this version of Anakin felt neither of those things anymore. Clenching his fists by his side, he continued.
"You know what I did at the Jedi Temple," Anakin delved deeper. He wasn't surprised when Yoda looked away, confirming Anakin's suspicion. "Shouldn't I pay for my crimes? Justice to be had? Isn't that's what the Council would have demanded." Anakin said evenly as he confronted Master Yoda.
"No more, the Council is. Only I remain." The small green creature remarked cryptically.
Giving him a hard stare, Anakin wouldn't let him off that easily. Of course, he expected him to react this way and try to dodge the direct question, but he knew Yoda had more opinion about the matter than he was letting on. With veritable tenacity, Anakin wasn't going to stop now.
"Whatever happened to 'Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny?'" Yoda flinched before he could catch himself and Anakin caught it. There was still a part of Yoda that doubted Anakin. He knew it! It was the confirmation he was looking for.
Anakin watched fiercely, slightly triumphantly, as the former Grand Master eyed him cautiously like a handling a ravenous rancor that hadn't eaten in weeks. Yoda's large ears moved up and down steadily as he thought with a subdued uneasy frown on his face. Patience was growing on Anakin since becoming a father, as he crossed his arms, he'd wait for as long as needed while the green creature figured out what to say next.
To his surprise, it didn't take long. Perhaps Yoda knew that this version of Anakin wouldn't be easily dissuaded, or maybe he understood how incredibly stubborn Anakin was. He wasn't sure.
"800 years I may have lived but foolish I can still be." His eyes were kind and sober as he spoke softly. It took Anakin every ounce of control not to react. "Wrong, I can be. Knowing the will of the Force, a lifetime venture it is, and even then understanding its nature, we never completely can. Compassion the Jedi teach for all living things. Yet, forgotten so often, we did apply within the order. Kindness show I did not. Forgiveness not what I seek. Significant part I was and excuses I make not."
It was quite a revelation. With his eyes wide, Anakin's body stiffened in shock. The Yoda he knew was always confident and poised. Perhaps the Council may have seen him in times of doubt but never had Anakin seen Yoda be so transparent and vulnerable as he was now. It was such an odd thing to hear from the former Grand Master, but here he was, and Anakin amazingly believed him. He was willing to give Anakin a chance knowing full well what happened and the possible risk that Anakin could turn to the dark side again. With respect, he adverted his eyes at the humility Yoda presented before him.
"I don't know what to say," Anakin admitted honestly as his mind went numb.
"Nothing say, you need. Glad you are here that I am." Yoda replied as he floated his pod to face Anakin directly, his body relaxed and his eyes gentle.
Perhaps if someone like Obi Wan uttered such things, it wouldn't have such an effect. That's not true, rarely did anyone ever apologize to him. Either way, the comment rattled him as a stunned Anakin nodded slightly obtunded, still processing it.
Reflexively, the following words spilled out of his mouth before he could stop them. "I won't let you down." Squeezing his eyes shut, Anakin mentally kicked himself for that comment. Even after all these years, he still felt the need to prove himself. Embarrassed, he chastised himself for that ridiculous comment.
"Trust you, I do. Know you will succeed where others have failed." Yoda responded as if he had read the young man's mind.
"How do you know that?" Anakin barked back. At this point, he was still doubtfully, with his skepticism still remaining, even with a slight warmth stirring in his chest.
The old frail green creature's face flickered with odd confusion, taking a moment to think before answering thoughtfully. "Failed, we already have. Victory, but the only option have we or doom to continue to fail we will."
It sounded reasonable. The words resonated with Anakin, which shed a whole new light on the situation. Obviously, they hit rock bottom. Got it. Well, it's hard not to be optimistic when the only choice left is to go up. After all, he understood that feeling better than anyone. Anakin grunted his agreement. There was a new calm and steadiness inside him he didn't understand.
Deciding that the conversation was over, Anakin turned to leave. He didn't have anything else to say. The feelings of hurt and betrayal he carried all these years seemed to lift from his burdened soul.
"Add, one more I do," Yoda called after him, still floating in the same spot. Anakin turned with a curiously raised eyebrow. "Mindful of your emotions, you must be. For who remember you are doing this for."
So he did know! This would be the day of many firsts for Anakin. Yoda acknowledging Anakin's family as a strength was something he could never fathom, and it seemed to run counter to what the Jedi believed. Perhaps, Yoda had truly changed after all these years. Utterly astonished, Anakin turned to leave again, leaving the former Grand Master alone in the Command Center room. He had much to ponder on.
A/N: There it is! Anakin's introduction to the Rebellion. Needless to say, Anakin had played countless possible conversations with Yoda in his mind while on his little farm on Nevah. It's only fitting he gets to face Yoda and bury the hatchet. Wait til you see his conversation with Plo Koon!
Btw, I love Plo Koon from TCW. I think he would have been a better master to Anakin than Obi Wan was. This is my AU, so he gets to live!
*The aracton are my own original creation. A terrifying insect to add to the growing list of Star Wars creepies to keep you up at night. Just like all the other creatures in the Star Wars universe, you'll see they have another dimension to them as well in the coming chapters.
Ezra is too young to be a part of the Ghost crew at this point. So in this AU, the team is a little different. With any luck, this AU Ezra will have a happier future growing up peacefully with his parents on Lothal.