Return to Naboo Part 4
Author's notes: Thanks again, everyone who is reading and reviewing. I love getting feedback, and it's so rewarding to see other people enjoying my story. I wanted to respond to a couple of reviews.
IntelEwok-Yes, I understand that leaving out the scenes where Leia, Han, and everyone else come to terms with Anakin/Vader may make the story seem incomplete. I chose not to write about those parts because there are already so many good stories that show those scenes. I don't think I could improve on what's already out there. And I've always been curious about what would happen after the initial coming to terms: what would the weeks, months, and even years after ROTJ be like if Anakin Skywalker were around? "Return to Naboo" is intended to pick up where some of the other "Anakin survives" stories end.
Culf-My version of Han's past does not agree with the EU because I have not read all the books. Many parts of my story will not be EU consistent. In fact, since I have Anakin alive and well, you could say that none of the story is EU consistent. I hope that won't ruin the story for you.
Well, now that I've talked everyone's ear off, I'll continue with part 4. Thanks, again, everyone. I hope you enjoy it.
Disclaimer: I do not own Star Wars, etc.
That night Luke sat on the balcony long after everyone else was asleep. He meditated, trying to calm himself. Questions kept appearing in his mind. How had those battle droids been activated? The head curator had assured them that the museum took the utmost precautions. There were triple security codes concerning the activation of the droids. Only a very high-ranking official, or an excellent hacker, could have gotten through them.
Luke had learned not to make hasty judgments, but the fact that the attack had occurred when the museum was closed to the public, when he and his family were supposed to be the only ones there, was suspicious. He didn't believe the droids coming to life had been an accident or a coincidence, but a deliberate attack against one or all of them. Which raised even more questions. Who was the target? And why? It all led back to who had started the droids in the first place.
He had his suspicians about that as well. Miret had arranged the visit and insisted that the public be kept out. There was also the confusing flash of feeling he and Anakin had sensed upon meeting the man. But he supposed it was possible that there was someone else who had simply taken advantage of the convenient arrangements. He and his family had spent the evening discussing their ideas. In the end, they had decided to let the security guards conduct the investigation and to keep a close eye on Miret.
He was so deep in thought he didn't hear the glass door behind him opening or sense his sister's presence. He jumped when Leia laid her hand on his shoulder.
"So much for Jedi senses," she grinned as she took the chair beside him.
Luke smiled back at her. "I thought you were sleeping."
"No. I keep thinking about what happened today," she told him.
"Me, too."
"If I had to guess, I'd say either Father or myself was the intended victim," Leia said. "There are lots of people out there who are not going to turn a blind eye to his being Vader, even if he has repented. And now that I'm Vice-Chancellor, I could be a political target."
"I know. We'll have to be careful," Luke remarked.
Leia arched her eyebrows at him. "And when are we not?" she teased.
Luke raised his eyebrows back at her. "You're in a surprisingly cheerful mood for someone who just noted she might be in the sights of an assassin."
"Well, it wouldn't be for the first time."
Luke nodded and looked at the twinkling lights of Theed. Even in Naboo's largest city, plenty of trees and flowers grew. The soft fragrance of sapphra roses filled the air. It seemed surreal that they were sitting here calmly discussing assassination attempts. He decided to change the subject. "I think Naboo must be the most beautiful place I've ever seen. No wonder Mother loved it so."
"It reminds me of Alderaan," Leia said quietly.
Luke looked at her in surprise. Leia rarely spoke of her lost world.
"Alderaan was a bit more-oh, I don't know, sophisticated, maybe? But it was lovely and peaceful like Naboo," she continued.
"That's good. Maybe Mother wasn't quite so homesick when she lived there with you," Luke commented.
"Maybe."
After a moment Luke spoke again. "I envy you, Leia. I would give anything to have a real memory of her. You're lucky you can remember a few things."
Leia considered that, then sighed. "I don't know, Luke. They're not happy memories. Mother was heartbroken. She tried to hide it from me, but I knew." Suddenly she burst out, "It's so hard for me not to be angry with Father sometimes! I just don't understand how you can be so forgiving! Even if you don't count all the things he did to innocent people all over the galaxy, even if you don't count all the things he did to us, to Han and you and me-his own children-how can you forgive him for destroying our family?"
She choked back a sob and, feeling too restless to sit still any longer, stood and paced to the far end of the balcony. Luke followed her and placed his hand on her shoulder. He answered in a quiet voice.
"I can forgive him for several reasons. First, I know how easy it is to turn to the dark side. I learned that at Endor. It's so easy, Leia. Because it doesn't seem evil at the time. You feel justified. Father made a mistake. A terrible one, and it had terrible consequences. I don't condone his turning, but I can understand it."
Second, he didn't intend to destroy our family. Palpatine is the one who had Mother killed. Father didn't know anything about it, and he didn't know about us until recently. When he joined Palpatine, he thought he had nothing else left."
"And finally, he did actually believe that he was working for the greater good. Even though he was wrong-the ends never justify the means-he did believe that the Empire would bring order and stability to the galaxy."
Leia turned around and gave her brother a hug. "Thanks, Luke. Maybe that will help. I said I had forgiven Father, and I really think that I have, most of the time, but every now and then, all this resentment bubbles up in me again."
"You just need more time," Luke told her comfortingly. "I wasn't ready to forgive him right after Bespin. It took a while. You're going through that process now."
A whole later he added, "You know, Leia, I think a lot about what it would have been like if we could have grown up together, with Mother and Father."
""Oh, me, too. Especially since we've been here. Maybe that's one reason I'm so upset with Father. I wish so much that we could have been a real family when we were little."
"Do you think we would have lived here?" Luke mused.
Leia nodded. "Probably. Mother loved it so much I don't think she would have wanted to leave, and Father probably would have been happy to stay as well."
"I don't think he would have wanted to stay on Tatooine," Luke agreed.
They were quiet, trying to imagine a life they'd never had. The cool breeze blew and all of a sudden Luke realized they were both shivering. "Hey, let's go in. It's getting cold out here."
Han rose early the next morning and went down to the palace hanger to check on the Millenium Falcon. The twins were seated on the sofa flipping through the book on Naboo geography when Anakin came into the living area. As he studied his children's bent heads, a wave of love stronger than anything he'd felt before washed over him. They were so young, yet so mature; so strong, yet so vulnerable. He yearned to protect them, to never let them be hurt again. "What are you two doing?"
They looked at him and smiled. As usual, Luke sent love and joyful welcome through their link. Anakin was shocked and pleased beyond measure when he sensed Leia, rather awkwardly, doing the same. It was the first time she had attempted to reach him this way. He returned their affectionate greetings both through the Force and by coming over to gently squeeze their shoulders.
"We're just looking at this book," Luke answereed. "Do we have to stay at the palace the whole time we're here? I mean, it's beautiful, but it would be nice to see the countryside, too."
"I don't think King Tripday would mind. He doesn't seem to like sharing the spotlight. I think he'd be just as happy if we were out of Theed," Leia remarked.
Aankin liked the idea, too, if for no other reason than that it would get them further away from Miret. If he were only responsible for himself, he would have wanted to stay in Theed and help in the investigation, but he had his children to think of now. He was heartbreakingly aware of well they could defend themselves, but he couldn't help being overprotective. He wanted to keep them away from any possible threat.
"That's a good idea. I'll call around today and make arrangements for us to travel around the countryside," he said.
Strange coincidences happen sometimes. It was only a short time later, as they were finishing breakfast, that one of palace workers came to tell them they had a visitor.
" A visitor?" Luke looked puzzled. "Who?"
"A man by the name of Shafliz, sir. He is one of the most wealthy and influential businessmen in Theed," the aide replied.
Luke, Leia, Anakin, and Han glanced around at one another. "Do any of you know him?" Han asked.
They shook their heads.
"Did he say what he wanted?" Leia inquired.
"No, I'm afraid not, ma'am. He is waiting in the sun parlor in the front of the palace. Do you wish me to show you the way?"
"That's all right. I know the way. Thank you," Anakin stood up. "Shall we see what he wants?"
Shafliz was a handsome, well-dressed man about Anakin's age. He bowed as they entered the sun parlor. They seated themselves at a square table in the center of the room.
Shafliz spoke up. "I realize that you don't know me and are probably wondering why I'm here. I came to thank you. My little daughter was one the children you saved in the museum yesterday."
"You're welcome," they all answered. Anakin added, "We're just glad no one was hurt."
"Yes, so are we all. I know you'll say it isn't necessary, but I did want to give you a gift to show my appreciation." Shafliz held out a set of papers.
"What is that?" Han asked curiously.
"The deed to some property I own in the lake country of Naboo," Shafliz began.
"Oh, no, we couldn't accept," Anakin began.
"Ordinarily I would respect your wishes, but I believe this property holds some sentimental value for you. You see, it was formerly the Amidala estate. There is a lake retreat home that Senator Amidala was very fond of. I believe I have heard that you, Master Anakin, once accompanied her there on a mission." Shafliz continued to hold out the papers. When no one moved or spoke, he added. "Please. My wife and I tried for many years to have a child. My little Wrennet means everything to me. It would make me very happy if you would accept this token of my gratitude."
The others studied Anakin. Slowly the older Jedi reached out and took the papers. "Thank you. This gift means a great deal to us as well."
Miret slipped away from the sun parlor door and into the next room before he could be seen . The Skywalkers would be leaving soon, he knew it. The plans would have to be adjusted. He thought furiously . After yesterday he understood that an open attack was unlikely to succeed. Jedi powers were as formidable as he'd heard. Luke Skywalker would have to be incapacitated in some way first. He left by another door and headed to his own room to collect a bottle of sleep pills. He would have to rely on chance more than he liked, but with luck, he could still make his move.
They broke the news of their imminent departure at lunch. King Tripday expressed polite regret, but they all knew he just as pleased to see them go. Anakin concentrated on Miret. If the man were responsible for the droid attack on them, he might not take this news well. However, he could not pick up any strong feelings from Miret. Either the aide was innocent, or he was good at shielding. Or perhaps it was just that empathy was not Anakin's strong point as a Jedi. Luke would be better at picking up clues from Miret. Anakin made a mental note to speak with his son later.
After lunch Han and Leia went walking around the gardens again. Anakin retired to his room to meditate. The droids began packing. Luke decided he might as well explore the palace grounds on his own.
He made his way to the river Solleu, the great river of Naboo. It wound its way around the edge of Theed Palace and fell in a spectacular waterfall over the edge of a high plateau. Luke sat on the grassy bank and gazed at the swift water flowing by. For a time he enjoyed watching the water birds soar elegantly in the air, then swoop down to effortlessly snag fish that had swum too close to the surface.
Gradually, so gradually that he didn't notice, his eyes became heavy and his thoughts grew incoherent. The warm sun on his head and the soft rush of the river lulled him into a drowsy state. Finally his eyes closed and he slumped to the ground, so deep in sleep he was completely unconscious.
Miret stepped out from behind the palace wall and slowly approached. He had attached a blaster to his belt and followed the young Jedi, waiting for the sleep pills to take effect. He reached for the blaster, then hesitated and looked at the river. Perhaps there was another way, one that would be less messy and suspicious. Although he didn't really care what happened to himself afterward. Without Betta and Keren, he had no reason to go on.
He looked at Luke, then back to the river. He debated over whether or not the water would rouse young Skywalker, but he'd given him enough sedatives that he should remain unconscious. And somehow, although deliberately drowning someone was just as much murder as shooting, it felt slightly "cleaner." Miret lifted Luke and carried him close to the river. Then, again, he hesitated.
He'd done things before that he was ashamed of, but nothing like cold- blooded murder. For a moment, he almost backed out. But then he remembered the Imperial troopers barging into the home he had shared with his family, tearing his lovely young wife and precious baby daughter away from him. He remembered that dark monster encased in armor overseeing it all, speaking in that harsh mechanical voice, telling him that he must obey the Emperor's commands and warning him what would happen to his family if he resisted. He remembered the haunting holos they'd occasionally let him see to tantalize and torment him. And for the sake of his Betta and Keren, he had given in to Vader and Palpatine and used his knowledge and skills in the vilest ways. If he had become a monster himself, it was their fault. They had killed the man he once was.
Resolutely he slipped Luke into the water, then turned his back and walked away.
Anakin was in a deep meditation trance when he suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to check on his son. His eyes snapped open, and he immediately called to Luke through the Force. No reply. He leaped to his feet and left the room almost at a run. He could sense Luke's drowsy presence in the Force. The boy must be asleep or unconscious. Perhaps he was simply taking an afternoon nap, but Anakin's danger sense was telling him something was wrong. He had vowed long ago to never ignore that sense. He concentrated fiercely, trying to discern his son's location. As soon as he realized that Luke was at the river, he couldn't refrain from sprinting the rest of the way.
As he approached the riverbank, he scanned the area, but saw no sign of Luke. Yet his presence was very close. Suddenly Anakin knew that Luke was in the river itself. The Solleu was deep, with treacherous currents. Anakin was not a strong swimmer, but fortunately, there was a better way to save his son.
He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and pictured Luke rising out of the river and floating to safety. Levitation and other physical manipulations were his strengths. Moments later he was holding his son in his arms.
The boy was not breathing and his lips were blue. Anakin frantically pounded on his chest until Luke began coughing and sputtering. Anakin gently raised him to a sitting position and rubbed his back as Luke coughed up water.
Finally, the young Jedi caught his breath and sat back, looking at his father in confusion. "What-what happened?"
"You were drowning," Anakin told him. "Do you remember what happened?"
Luke shook his head. "I was sitting over there, watching the birds. I think I fell asleep. That's all I know."
The knowledge of how close he'd been to losing his beloved son washed over Anakin and he held Luke to his chest in a fierce embrace. For a long time they knelt on the riverbank, clinging to one another.
"How do you feel?" Anakin asked when he felt he could speak again.
"I'll be fine as soon as I can change into dry clothes," Luke replied through chattering teeth.
"Well, come on, then," Anakin helped Luke to his feet.
As they headed back to the palace, Han and Leia rushed up to them.
"Luke, are you all right?" Leia asked anxiously. "I knew something was wrong, but I couldn't figure out where you were."
Luke and Anakin explained what had happened. Han caught his breath. "Two attacks in two days. Someone means business."
Anakin's expression was grim. More than ever, he wanted to find out what was going on here, but first he had to be certain his children were safe. "I think we'd better leave for the lake retreat immediately."
Author's notes: Thanks again, everyone who is reading and reviewing. I love getting feedback, and it's so rewarding to see other people enjoying my story. I wanted to respond to a couple of reviews.
IntelEwok-Yes, I understand that leaving out the scenes where Leia, Han, and everyone else come to terms with Anakin/Vader may make the story seem incomplete. I chose not to write about those parts because there are already so many good stories that show those scenes. I don't think I could improve on what's already out there. And I've always been curious about what would happen after the initial coming to terms: what would the weeks, months, and even years after ROTJ be like if Anakin Skywalker were around? "Return to Naboo" is intended to pick up where some of the other "Anakin survives" stories end.
Culf-My version of Han's past does not agree with the EU because I have not read all the books. Many parts of my story will not be EU consistent. In fact, since I have Anakin alive and well, you could say that none of the story is EU consistent. I hope that won't ruin the story for you.
Well, now that I've talked everyone's ear off, I'll continue with part 4. Thanks, again, everyone. I hope you enjoy it.
Disclaimer: I do not own Star Wars, etc.
That night Luke sat on the balcony long after everyone else was asleep. He meditated, trying to calm himself. Questions kept appearing in his mind. How had those battle droids been activated? The head curator had assured them that the museum took the utmost precautions. There were triple security codes concerning the activation of the droids. Only a very high-ranking official, or an excellent hacker, could have gotten through them.
Luke had learned not to make hasty judgments, but the fact that the attack had occurred when the museum was closed to the public, when he and his family were supposed to be the only ones there, was suspicious. He didn't believe the droids coming to life had been an accident or a coincidence, but a deliberate attack against one or all of them. Which raised even more questions. Who was the target? And why? It all led back to who had started the droids in the first place.
He had his suspicians about that as well. Miret had arranged the visit and insisted that the public be kept out. There was also the confusing flash of feeling he and Anakin had sensed upon meeting the man. But he supposed it was possible that there was someone else who had simply taken advantage of the convenient arrangements. He and his family had spent the evening discussing their ideas. In the end, they had decided to let the security guards conduct the investigation and to keep a close eye on Miret.
He was so deep in thought he didn't hear the glass door behind him opening or sense his sister's presence. He jumped when Leia laid her hand on his shoulder.
"So much for Jedi senses," she grinned as she took the chair beside him.
Luke smiled back at her. "I thought you were sleeping."
"No. I keep thinking about what happened today," she told him.
"Me, too."
"If I had to guess, I'd say either Father or myself was the intended victim," Leia said. "There are lots of people out there who are not going to turn a blind eye to his being Vader, even if he has repented. And now that I'm Vice-Chancellor, I could be a political target."
"I know. We'll have to be careful," Luke remarked.
Leia arched her eyebrows at him. "And when are we not?" she teased.
Luke raised his eyebrows back at her. "You're in a surprisingly cheerful mood for someone who just noted she might be in the sights of an assassin."
"Well, it wouldn't be for the first time."
Luke nodded and looked at the twinkling lights of Theed. Even in Naboo's largest city, plenty of trees and flowers grew. The soft fragrance of sapphra roses filled the air. It seemed surreal that they were sitting here calmly discussing assassination attempts. He decided to change the subject. "I think Naboo must be the most beautiful place I've ever seen. No wonder Mother loved it so."
"It reminds me of Alderaan," Leia said quietly.
Luke looked at her in surprise. Leia rarely spoke of her lost world.
"Alderaan was a bit more-oh, I don't know, sophisticated, maybe? But it was lovely and peaceful like Naboo," she continued.
"That's good. Maybe Mother wasn't quite so homesick when she lived there with you," Luke commented.
"Maybe."
After a moment Luke spoke again. "I envy you, Leia. I would give anything to have a real memory of her. You're lucky you can remember a few things."
Leia considered that, then sighed. "I don't know, Luke. They're not happy memories. Mother was heartbroken. She tried to hide it from me, but I knew." Suddenly she burst out, "It's so hard for me not to be angry with Father sometimes! I just don't understand how you can be so forgiving! Even if you don't count all the things he did to innocent people all over the galaxy, even if you don't count all the things he did to us, to Han and you and me-his own children-how can you forgive him for destroying our family?"
She choked back a sob and, feeling too restless to sit still any longer, stood and paced to the far end of the balcony. Luke followed her and placed his hand on her shoulder. He answered in a quiet voice.
"I can forgive him for several reasons. First, I know how easy it is to turn to the dark side. I learned that at Endor. It's so easy, Leia. Because it doesn't seem evil at the time. You feel justified. Father made a mistake. A terrible one, and it had terrible consequences. I don't condone his turning, but I can understand it."
Second, he didn't intend to destroy our family. Palpatine is the one who had Mother killed. Father didn't know anything about it, and he didn't know about us until recently. When he joined Palpatine, he thought he had nothing else left."
"And finally, he did actually believe that he was working for the greater good. Even though he was wrong-the ends never justify the means-he did believe that the Empire would bring order and stability to the galaxy."
Leia turned around and gave her brother a hug. "Thanks, Luke. Maybe that will help. I said I had forgiven Father, and I really think that I have, most of the time, but every now and then, all this resentment bubbles up in me again."
"You just need more time," Luke told her comfortingly. "I wasn't ready to forgive him right after Bespin. It took a while. You're going through that process now."
A whole later he added, "You know, Leia, I think a lot about what it would have been like if we could have grown up together, with Mother and Father."
""Oh, me, too. Especially since we've been here. Maybe that's one reason I'm so upset with Father. I wish so much that we could have been a real family when we were little."
"Do you think we would have lived here?" Luke mused.
Leia nodded. "Probably. Mother loved it so much I don't think she would have wanted to leave, and Father probably would have been happy to stay as well."
"I don't think he would have wanted to stay on Tatooine," Luke agreed.
They were quiet, trying to imagine a life they'd never had. The cool breeze blew and all of a sudden Luke realized they were both shivering. "Hey, let's go in. It's getting cold out here."
Han rose early the next morning and went down to the palace hanger to check on the Millenium Falcon. The twins were seated on the sofa flipping through the book on Naboo geography when Anakin came into the living area. As he studied his children's bent heads, a wave of love stronger than anything he'd felt before washed over him. They were so young, yet so mature; so strong, yet so vulnerable. He yearned to protect them, to never let them be hurt again. "What are you two doing?"
They looked at him and smiled. As usual, Luke sent love and joyful welcome through their link. Anakin was shocked and pleased beyond measure when he sensed Leia, rather awkwardly, doing the same. It was the first time she had attempted to reach him this way. He returned their affectionate greetings both through the Force and by coming over to gently squeeze their shoulders.
"We're just looking at this book," Luke answereed. "Do we have to stay at the palace the whole time we're here? I mean, it's beautiful, but it would be nice to see the countryside, too."
"I don't think King Tripday would mind. He doesn't seem to like sharing the spotlight. I think he'd be just as happy if we were out of Theed," Leia remarked.
Aankin liked the idea, too, if for no other reason than that it would get them further away from Miret. If he were only responsible for himself, he would have wanted to stay in Theed and help in the investigation, but he had his children to think of now. He was heartbreakingly aware of well they could defend themselves, but he couldn't help being overprotective. He wanted to keep them away from any possible threat.
"That's a good idea. I'll call around today and make arrangements for us to travel around the countryside," he said.
Strange coincidences happen sometimes. It was only a short time later, as they were finishing breakfast, that one of palace workers came to tell them they had a visitor.
" A visitor?" Luke looked puzzled. "Who?"
"A man by the name of Shafliz, sir. He is one of the most wealthy and influential businessmen in Theed," the aide replied.
Luke, Leia, Anakin, and Han glanced around at one another. "Do any of you know him?" Han asked.
They shook their heads.
"Did he say what he wanted?" Leia inquired.
"No, I'm afraid not, ma'am. He is waiting in the sun parlor in the front of the palace. Do you wish me to show you the way?"
"That's all right. I know the way. Thank you," Anakin stood up. "Shall we see what he wants?"
Shafliz was a handsome, well-dressed man about Anakin's age. He bowed as they entered the sun parlor. They seated themselves at a square table in the center of the room.
Shafliz spoke up. "I realize that you don't know me and are probably wondering why I'm here. I came to thank you. My little daughter was one the children you saved in the museum yesterday."
"You're welcome," they all answered. Anakin added, "We're just glad no one was hurt."
"Yes, so are we all. I know you'll say it isn't necessary, but I did want to give you a gift to show my appreciation." Shafliz held out a set of papers.
"What is that?" Han asked curiously.
"The deed to some property I own in the lake country of Naboo," Shafliz began.
"Oh, no, we couldn't accept," Anakin began.
"Ordinarily I would respect your wishes, but I believe this property holds some sentimental value for you. You see, it was formerly the Amidala estate. There is a lake retreat home that Senator Amidala was very fond of. I believe I have heard that you, Master Anakin, once accompanied her there on a mission." Shafliz continued to hold out the papers. When no one moved or spoke, he added. "Please. My wife and I tried for many years to have a child. My little Wrennet means everything to me. It would make me very happy if you would accept this token of my gratitude."
The others studied Anakin. Slowly the older Jedi reached out and took the papers. "Thank you. This gift means a great deal to us as well."
Miret slipped away from the sun parlor door and into the next room before he could be seen . The Skywalkers would be leaving soon, he knew it. The plans would have to be adjusted. He thought furiously . After yesterday he understood that an open attack was unlikely to succeed. Jedi powers were as formidable as he'd heard. Luke Skywalker would have to be incapacitated in some way first. He left by another door and headed to his own room to collect a bottle of sleep pills. He would have to rely on chance more than he liked, but with luck, he could still make his move.
They broke the news of their imminent departure at lunch. King Tripday expressed polite regret, but they all knew he just as pleased to see them go. Anakin concentrated on Miret. If the man were responsible for the droid attack on them, he might not take this news well. However, he could not pick up any strong feelings from Miret. Either the aide was innocent, or he was good at shielding. Or perhaps it was just that empathy was not Anakin's strong point as a Jedi. Luke would be better at picking up clues from Miret. Anakin made a mental note to speak with his son later.
After lunch Han and Leia went walking around the gardens again. Anakin retired to his room to meditate. The droids began packing. Luke decided he might as well explore the palace grounds on his own.
He made his way to the river Solleu, the great river of Naboo. It wound its way around the edge of Theed Palace and fell in a spectacular waterfall over the edge of a high plateau. Luke sat on the grassy bank and gazed at the swift water flowing by. For a time he enjoyed watching the water birds soar elegantly in the air, then swoop down to effortlessly snag fish that had swum too close to the surface.
Gradually, so gradually that he didn't notice, his eyes became heavy and his thoughts grew incoherent. The warm sun on his head and the soft rush of the river lulled him into a drowsy state. Finally his eyes closed and he slumped to the ground, so deep in sleep he was completely unconscious.
Miret stepped out from behind the palace wall and slowly approached. He had attached a blaster to his belt and followed the young Jedi, waiting for the sleep pills to take effect. He reached for the blaster, then hesitated and looked at the river. Perhaps there was another way, one that would be less messy and suspicious. Although he didn't really care what happened to himself afterward. Without Betta and Keren, he had no reason to go on.
He looked at Luke, then back to the river. He debated over whether or not the water would rouse young Skywalker, but he'd given him enough sedatives that he should remain unconscious. And somehow, although deliberately drowning someone was just as much murder as shooting, it felt slightly "cleaner." Miret lifted Luke and carried him close to the river. Then, again, he hesitated.
He'd done things before that he was ashamed of, but nothing like cold- blooded murder. For a moment, he almost backed out. But then he remembered the Imperial troopers barging into the home he had shared with his family, tearing his lovely young wife and precious baby daughter away from him. He remembered that dark monster encased in armor overseeing it all, speaking in that harsh mechanical voice, telling him that he must obey the Emperor's commands and warning him what would happen to his family if he resisted. He remembered the haunting holos they'd occasionally let him see to tantalize and torment him. And for the sake of his Betta and Keren, he had given in to Vader and Palpatine and used his knowledge and skills in the vilest ways. If he had become a monster himself, it was their fault. They had killed the man he once was.
Resolutely he slipped Luke into the water, then turned his back and walked away.
Anakin was in a deep meditation trance when he suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to check on his son. His eyes snapped open, and he immediately called to Luke through the Force. No reply. He leaped to his feet and left the room almost at a run. He could sense Luke's drowsy presence in the Force. The boy must be asleep or unconscious. Perhaps he was simply taking an afternoon nap, but Anakin's danger sense was telling him something was wrong. He had vowed long ago to never ignore that sense. He concentrated fiercely, trying to discern his son's location. As soon as he realized that Luke was at the river, he couldn't refrain from sprinting the rest of the way.
As he approached the riverbank, he scanned the area, but saw no sign of Luke. Yet his presence was very close. Suddenly Anakin knew that Luke was in the river itself. The Solleu was deep, with treacherous currents. Anakin was not a strong swimmer, but fortunately, there was a better way to save his son.
He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and pictured Luke rising out of the river and floating to safety. Levitation and other physical manipulations were his strengths. Moments later he was holding his son in his arms.
The boy was not breathing and his lips were blue. Anakin frantically pounded on his chest until Luke began coughing and sputtering. Anakin gently raised him to a sitting position and rubbed his back as Luke coughed up water.
Finally, the young Jedi caught his breath and sat back, looking at his father in confusion. "What-what happened?"
"You were drowning," Anakin told him. "Do you remember what happened?"
Luke shook his head. "I was sitting over there, watching the birds. I think I fell asleep. That's all I know."
The knowledge of how close he'd been to losing his beloved son washed over Anakin and he held Luke to his chest in a fierce embrace. For a long time they knelt on the riverbank, clinging to one another.
"How do you feel?" Anakin asked when he felt he could speak again.
"I'll be fine as soon as I can change into dry clothes," Luke replied through chattering teeth.
"Well, come on, then," Anakin helped Luke to his feet.
As they headed back to the palace, Han and Leia rushed up to them.
"Luke, are you all right?" Leia asked anxiously. "I knew something was wrong, but I couldn't figure out where you were."
Luke and Anakin explained what had happened. Han caught his breath. "Two attacks in two days. Someone means business."
Anakin's expression was grim. More than ever, he wanted to find out what was going on here, but first he had to be certain his children were safe. "I think we'd better leave for the lake retreat immediately."