Next month came by, and soon came the arranged meeting with Queen Amidala. The weather on Serenno has grown far colder than before, it seems like the blizzards and thunderstorms there are endless and timeless, there wasn't a time during day or night where it wasn't snowing or raining heavily. The weather forever dark and gloomy, but somehow, Yan takes comfort in it.
Jenza always complained to him about the amount of times it rains during the last month of Winter, about how the gloomy weather makes her feel gloomy in return. Yan, however, is someone who grew up in the neutral weather of Coruscant, appreciates nature in all of it's glory.
The sound of rain hitting the glass could be heard as Yan answered Queen Amidala's call. The blue image of her immediately coming to life, with her stuffy red robes, looming hairstyle and white makeup, her council sitting around her in a circle.
"Count and Countess Dooku", her regal, monotone voice greeted them, her voice holds power, a trait Yan admires in her. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."
"Likewise, your Majesty.", Jenza replied easily, bowing a little.
"Your Senator has informed that you were the one to suggest I sue the Neimodians", Queen Amidala says, tone inquiring. "You must know I cannot condone a course of action if I don't have a true understanding of what I'm doing."
"Of course, your Majesty", Jenza says. "I was the one to suggest the idea to Senator Theodar, not my brother. I would be more than happy to explain more about it to you."
"Please, go on.", Queen Amidala says, gaze completely on Jenza.
"My brother and I, as I'm sure our Senator has already told you, have been greatly shaken by the Senate's lack of efforts when it comes to helping the Naboo. We are also extremely disappointed that the Neimodians haven't been punished for illegally inhabiting a planet.
The Galactic Senate of the Republic forbids one planet from invading another, and from torturing and murdering the civilians living on it. I heard the Neimodians have left ever lasting damage on the Naboo itself, not just the people.
You can sue them in the Galactic Senatorial Courts for illegally occupying the Naboo, the torture and murder of the Naboolians, taking over the palace and also for damaging properties on Naboo."
Queen Amidala looks at her for a moment too long, the sound of chatter in her Council can be heard from the hologram, but neither Yan nor Jenza could hear what they were saying. The siblings didn't look at each other, but they have enough experience to know that the Naboolian Council is in distress. Yan thought it's quite pathetic that they are conflicted whether they should sue or not, for a planet who preaches about honour, the Naboo apparently don't care about theirs.
Queen Amidala raised a hand, silencing the chatter. She turned to look at Jenza with her usual impassive gaze and unreadable expression. "Thank you, Countess, I will take your words into consideration. I have been too busy trying to fix the broken shambles of my planet to truly think of what I should do about the Neimodians."
"Totally understandable, my lady. We are saddened to hear of what became to the Naboo."
"We appreciate the support you have provided us with, Countess. It is good to know we are not alone.", Queen Amidala replied.
"You should know, your Majesty", Yan speaks for the first time, and he could feel her curiosity at him. "You should not expect much support from the Senate, or from the Chancellor himself."
Queen Amidala's gaze stays the same, but there is a fire behind her eyes, barely there. "I fear the Chancellor has been blinded by power, I'm afraid I'm losing too much of my faith in the Senate."
"Was it ever only a matter of faith? I don't think so, your Majesty. We had complete blind trust in the Senate to the point where we believed nothing could go wrong", Yan said, his hands behind his back. "We believed the Senate will never be corrupted."
"But now it is", Queen Amidala says, her brows furrowing. "My people are in a dire need of help, your Honour, do you truly believe the Senate will offer help?"
"I have complete and well-placed trust in my ambassador, your Majesty", Yan replied. "If he believes that the Naboo will get help next week, then I believe it as well."
Queen Amidala regarded him carefully. "I'm grateful for you help, your Honour. The Naboo and its people are in your debt, I will take your suggestion of suing the Neimodians into consideration."
"All we want your Majesty, is for justice to spread", Jenza says kindly. "We will gladly offer the Naboo help ourselves, but at the moment I'm afraid the weather isn't helping. It's been raining and snowing heavily since the month started and the news has declared its too dangerous to fly or go outside in this weather."
"You have done more than enough, your Honour", Queen Amidala said. "If the situation turns more dire than it already is, I will be asking for help. But for now, I'm grateful for your kind support."
"We are glad to be of help.", Jenza smiles, and Queen Amidala smiles back at her.
"It's been an honour to speak with you, but I'm afraid I have to take my leave now.", Queen Amidala excused herself.
"Of course, your Majesty, it's been an honour to speak with you as well.", Jenza bowed to her and Yan bowed alongside her. Queen Amidala returned the bow before her blue hologram snapped out.
"She's.. doing surprisingly well.", Jenza says after a while.
"She still has much to learn.", Yan says.
"True, but she's fourteen and already leading a planet during the time of crisis. The Naboo seems to be doing well, all things considered.", Jenza replies, nudging his arm.
Yan hummed. "She's far too trusting still, but she will learn."
Jenza hummed her agreement, and excused herself to go finish reading the remaining letters.
"I don't think we should sue the Neimodians", the governor said as soon as the blue images of Count and Countess Dooku disappeared. "It will cause unnecessary conflicts."
Padmè regarded him carefully. "If we don't sue them for what they did they will have a chance at doing again later. If not to the Naboo then to another planet."
"And how can we know what they're saying is true?", one of the Councillors said. "For all we know, they're only on to a scheme."
"I had Senator Greejatus check the laws, he informed that the Serennian monarchies have been correct", Padmè replied easily. "I have no reason to believe they are deceiving us."
"And you expect me to believe they are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts?", another Councillor scoffed. "Why all the sudden interest in us?"
"The Naboo doesn't have a good reputation in the Senate any longer because of the latest events", Padmè allowed a hard edge to colour her voice. "Might I remind that almost half the Senate thinks we paid Gunray to invade us so we could put Palpatine into office."
"And the last time you took Palpatine's advice it landed us in this situation.", the governor raised his nose.
Padmè felt embarrassment run through her. "The last time I listened to Palpatine it was for the sake of my people, whom I saved in the end. Count and Countess Dooku are only asking me to rightfully bring justice to the victim's names and memory by bringing the crimes that were done against them into light. This is an opportunity to bring back the good reputation the Naboo always held."
Her voice had taken a more powerful tone, and she regarded all the Council coolly. Maybe she's the reason Palpatine is in office but what she did still saved her people, and what she will do is only to make sure that whatever happened to them will not be forgotten and the Neimodians will be punished for their cruel ways. Padmè stood up, and everyone followed in suit.
"I will speak to Senator Greejatus to make sure that we write down the name of all the victims and the crimes that happened on the Naboo during the invasion, and we will take several holopictures to prove our point.", was the last thing she said before she left, head held high.
She's young, she knows. Padmè knows she still has much to learn, but she is not about to be underestimated, especially when she only has her people's best interests at heart.
Padmè Amidala Naberriè will prove to everyone in the galaxy exactly what Queen Amidala is capable of doing.
Four months of learning on how to write and read and getting mind healing sessions, and a month of learning on how to become a Jedi has molded Anakin into a different person. For starters, he wasn't as angry as he seemed to be before, and he didn't have much nightmares. He still flinches whenever someone gets close to him or raise their hand unexpectedly but Mr Johan told him that's normal.
Mr Johan has taught him on how to better deal with his emotions, and gave him a few advices on how to deal with the difficult and consuming emotions like; anger, sadness, and frustration. It's working, and Anakin is finding himself doing much better than ever before. He hasn't been truly happy in his life, but now, he thinks, he can finally be happy.
Anakin's hygienic habits have changed as well. Whereas he couldn't even find it in himself to shower or go anywhere near water, he can't even spend a day without showering or at least washing his hands and feet three times a day, and he can't even wear his clothes for the whole day anymore. His past self wouldn't even recognise him.
Even physically because now he had gained lots of weight and his diet consisted of more and more various foods than the usual portions he had been offered at first. He had grown a few inches, and the healers in the Castle said it will take him a few years before he can make his body grow as it normally should.
But overall, he was happy with his new life.
He's excited to learn all the new Jedi tricks and lightsaber forms. Obi-Wan taught him the basic katas and said he will is doing extremely well and that he is very proud of him. Grandpa Yan also took over some of his training, and taught him a few tricks and helped improve his forms.
With their arrival to the Temple getting closer, Obi-Wan had explained to him the meaning of the word Master and told him that while Jedi Padawans call their teachers that, Anakin doesn't have to call Obi-Wan his master, he can just call him Obi-Wan. Anakin is grateful for that, he doesn't think he can ever like calling Obi-Wan Master.
He's only a month away from going back to the Temple, and he is very much excited for it. He's always been fascinated with the Temple in the time he spent in it, and he wanted nothing more than to explore it and see how life there is like. But at the same time, he wishes he never has to leave Serenno and the beautiful, warm castle he calls now home.
He loves the way the Force feels around this place, and as he learns more about it, the more he feels his connection to Pa getting closer. Pa had also taken it upon him to teach him a few lessons.
You're the embodiment of light and darkness, my little star. Pa had told him, as they gently taught them how to lift things in the air without using his hand. It's a tricky move, and a difficult one, but Anakin had learned it quickly and Pa was proud of him.
Pa told him he still has much to learn. Pa would be there to help him and guide him, and gently sat him down and explained to him that since he and Pa are part of each other, then Anakin is much stronger than any Force user in the galaxy and requires special help. Help from Pa themselves.
So Anakin accepted that and allowed Pa to explain rules to him and teachings that the Jedi never had. And probably never will. Allowed Pa to teach him new abilities that no one else has an idea about what they mean or how they're done. Pa taught him how to lift things without his hands, how to shield himself completely in the Force, and now Pa is teaching him how to balance.
It's stupid really, Anakin has to lift as many rocks as he can above his head with his powers and walk around the garden. When he can walk normally without any difficulties after he gets used to a particular number, Pa adds more rocks. It always gets Anakin frustrated and angry.
Why does Pa make him balance the rocks if he's going to add even more rocks to make him unbalanced?
"This is stupid!", Anakin growled, pushing away all of the rocks and destroying some of them. "Why should I carry all of these stupid rocks?! They're not gonna help me do anything! I've already balanced many rocks!"
"You have. And you can balance these as well.", Pa replied easily.
"No I can't! You saw how I'm not able to do it!", Anakin screamed, throwing more rocks away.
Pa stood in the face of his anger with a non bothered look on their face. This made Anakin angrier. How can they just stand there without feeling anything?! Without showing any emotion?!
"Don't just stand there! Do something!", Anakin heaved. "It's annoying how you just stand there!"
"What do you want me to do, Anakin?", Pa asked still not showing any emotion.
"Anything!", Anakin yelled.
"What? Scream? Yell? Dance? Sing?", Pa asked.
Anakin cried out in rage and then destroyed some more rocks before flopping to the ground, exhausted. Pa walked over to him calmly, Anakin purposely avoided their gaze, staring up at nothing in particular. He felt Pa's amusement and affection and somehow, these feelings made him feel shame.
He's ashamed of himself for how he reacted and what he said to Pa but he can't help himself. He can't control his emotions and his anger, somethings just slip up or happen without giving him the chance to even realise what's happening. It's a trait he always hated in himself, one he doesn't want to admit that he has.
One he's embarrassed and ashamed of.
Something is wrong with him and he knows it.
Pa knows it too now, and now Pa will leave because Anakin messed it all up-
"What are you feeling now, Anakin?", Pa knelt beside him. Anakin could feel their care for him easily through their connection.
"Angry.", he says after a while.
"What makes you angry?", Pa asks.
Anakin huffs in annoyance. "Isn't it obvious?! I can't lift these stupid rocks! I can't balance them!"
"So you felt angry because you couldn't lift them?", Pa asked.
"Yes! I should've known how to do it! It's annoying!"
"So you're annoyed."
"Yeah!"
"And frustrated with how you couldn't balance the rocks."
"Yeah!"
"And that made you angry?"
"Yeah!"
"Then you weren't truly angry."
Anakin stares at Pa like they grew two heads.
"What?", he titled his head to the side, confusion masking his young features.
"You weren't truly angry", Pa repeats. "You were frustrated with yourself for not being able to balance the rocks. You were annoyed with me for making it harder for you. You were upset with yourself for not being able to do what I asked of you.
These emotions mixed together made you angry. Because you felt too much emotions at once and couldn't find a way to deal with them. You were angry because it was easier for you to hide your emotions behind your anger."
Anakin bit his lip, feeling ashamed at how much Pa knew. And surprised at how much he hard learned at the moment.
"How can I deal with them?", Anakin said quietly.
"By confronting them."
"How can I confront them?"
"You take a moment to stop and think about what you are feeling and focus on how to make it go away."
"And how can I make it go away?"
"That is something for you to figure out on your own."
Anakin huffed, rolling around in annoyance.
"And if I can't?!"
A gentle smile.
"You can and you will, I have complete faith in you."
The days blurred together and next week has arrived. Yan and Jenza finished reading the submitted forums by the students, and they had sat down for hours and discussed what must be done and what they have to do in order to solve the problem.
They have decided to do it like this;
Children till the age of six won't be learning anything other than the colours and numbers. They will be taught to read and write slowly and to match the children's pace, while also learn to do the basic mathematics and other normal things like geography or history.
There will be art classes added as well as music classes. There will be also several classes where children learn how to better understand their emotions and deal with them. Yan and Jenza both tried to include as many classes as possible that will be mind opening to the children. Classes that will make their bright minds flourish.
Until they reach the age of thirteen, children will then be able to choose their own classes. They don't have to learn the unnecessary mathematics or continue in a subject they don't find interest in. They will have many options - much more than before - to choose from; arts, literature, music, dancing, science, mechanics, building.
Anything.
By the age of sixteen they will be taught how to be financially stable and how to survive in the world outside of schools. How to start a business and keep it going, how to find small jobs while being a college student, how to save money, what to do in case of medical emergencies. And there will also be counseling sessions where students sit down with professionals so they can know what to do next, after they graduate from school.
At seventeen they can graduate schools and go join the universities and colleges they desire while also being in a good place mentally without much stress. Jenza and Yan saw no need for exams, since they only make children stressed, so they opted to let children come to class to learn because they want to, not because they were forced to or because they want to pass.
Surveys show that most students only study or sometimes to cheat to pass the exam without truly understanding the material and will then forget about it later on. A terrible mistake since it backfires on them and on the teachers who are teaching them.
Jenza and Yan arranged a meeting with the Minister of Education who said that it will take great time to change the system. Possibly four to six years before they can get teachers who are suitable enough for these teaching methods. After a long discussion, the Minister said she will have to plan new classes and courses to the college students who are learning to become teachers and to the teachers who are working in schools. She said it will take an incredibly long time to be able to find a final solution but the Dooku's told her to take her time.
One thing taken care of, and many things remain to be taken care of. The new change will be costly and Serenno is a rich planet indeed but now, with Galaxy being under construction and with Yan and Jenza thinking of raising the salary of the teachers, it will cause a great financial imbalance. The monarchies will have to find a way to bring in more money.
Both of them are trying not to put Serenno in a tight spot, and soon, another week passed and another meeting came, this time with both Dooku's and the Minister of Funding and Minister of Education present.
After hours and hours of debating, they agreed not to take any steps now until the Dooku's are sure there aren't ways to bring in more income to Serenno. Things will have to wait until the Minister of Education plans a new change in the system as well.
It's been almost two months since the issue started and it sure brought a lot of headache to Yan's head. Not to mention his beeping comm every few seconds.
Jenza had called him to her office this one afternoon, two days after the meeting regarding the schools. Already, Yan has a feeling he knows what Jenza called him for.
Just as he suspected, Theodar's blue hologram stood in the middle of the room. His face held a triumphant smile and his eyes are sparkling. So good news it is.
"Count, Countess. I'm afraid it's been far too long.", Theodar greeted them both, bowing respectfully.
Jenza returned the bow, Yan following her. "Far too long indeed, Senator.", Jenza said.
"I have good news only", Theodar went straight to the point. "Ready to hear them?"
"You ask if we're ready to hear the good news but you never ask if we're ready to hear the bad news. So by all means, Theodar, go on.", Yan rubbed his temple and Jenza and Theodar laughed.
"Oh dear Count, you know how much I love getting on your nerves", Theodar chuckled. "Now the news!"
"Just say it!", Jenza said giddiness clear on her face.
"The bill in favour of helping the Naboo has been approved by the Chancellor", Jenza let out a cry of happiness and clapped her hands. "And, Queen Amidala has sued the Neimodians."
"Good news indeed!", Jenza said happily. "I'm glad that finally something is done."
"So am I, your Honour", Theodar replied. "The Senate is shocked that Queen Amidala has taken the step and sued the Neimodians. I don't think anyone expected that. Especially not the Chancellor."
"Did he say anything?", Yan inquires.
"No. But his face looked pale when he knew of her plans. He quickly smiled though, but I saw the look on his face. He was scared.", Theodar rolled his shoulders back.
"Scared of what?", Jenza asks. "If he's scared then he must be guilty."
"Strange isn't it? How he acts so guilty when there is no evidence against him.", Theodar said.
"It's also frustrating how there's something obviously wrong in whatever happened to make him Chancellor but no one can find anything to prove it right.", Yan sighs.
"We will get there", Theodar says smugly. "I think they're just too busy focusing on Naboo, at the moment, so they will hardly pay attention to me. I'll just have to watch the Chancellor closely."
"Be careful, Senator", Yan warned. "No thoughts, no emotions. Nothing."
"Of course, my lord", Theodar bowed one last time. "I'm afraid I'll have to leave now. Until our next meeting.".
"Until our next meeting, Senator.", Jenza said, bowing alongside her brother.
"Queen Amidala of the Naboo, you have come here, to the Republic's Capital to speak on the behalf of your people", the judge says. "And you are suing the Neimodians for illegally invading your planet."
Padmè stood proud, head held high. "Yes, your Honour", she's also careful not to let any emotion slip through her tone. "I have come here with not only one, but many, evidences of the horrors the Neimodians have committed against my people. Recorded calls as well."
"We will see everything you have brought with you, your Majesty", the judge replies. "Will you start with the biggest evidence?"
Padmè looks at Sabè, who immediately tells Artoo to show the whole courts of the Senatorial Courts the holos of how damaged her planet became. Pictures of bloody camps and destroyed homes were displayed in front of everyone, and the Palace being invaded in the process of the Neimodians trying to kidnap the Queen.
"These are the most important evidence I have against the Neimodians. I have requested for there to be a list where all the names of victims of the invasion are written with the fate they faced. Many families and survivors have also volunteered to speak as witnesses.", Padmè said powerfully, watching as the Neimodians in question tried to hide from the corner of her eyes.
How pathetic.
"Tell me the story of how your planet came to be invaded and how you saved it. In detail please.", the judge requests.
Padmè tells her in great detail of the rising tension between Naboo and the Trade Federation even before her election, how she came to be a queen with crisis on her shoulders. She tells her of the endless attempts to negotiate with the Neimodians and shows her the recorded calls. She tells her of how the Neimodians blocked their communication system so they had no way of contacting or asking for help.
And finally, how they invaded her planet and put her people into camps, broke into the Palace and kidnapped her with the threat of destroying her if she doesn't. How she ran away with the Jedi to Coruscant but she doesn't mention Tatooine. At the end of the story, the judge has a cool glint in her eyes, and she looks at the Neimodians with clear disdain.
"There will be more trials, your Majesty", the judge says. "I would say it will take three weeks of trials, at least. But the Neimodians responsible for illegally invading a planet will be jailed and questioned. Thank you, Queen Amidala."
"Thank you.", Padmè says, allowing gratefulness to slip in her voice. The judge gives her the barest of smiles before declaring the first trial over.
That went better than she expected. Perhaps there is hope in the Republic, after all.
In less than a week, another month will end. Which means the two months Anakin and Obi-Wan spent here will be long over and they will have to be moving back to the Temple soon. Four months of staying on Serenno and Obi-Wan is still not sick of it. He feels like he didn't get enough time to appreciate living here, to truly process the bliss he feels with his family.
The weather is still very cold, and the winds slam against the Castle violently. It's still snowing and raining heavily and Obi-Wan doesn't understand how they can fly a ship in this weather, especially since the news told for the people's own safety, there won't be any flying for the whole month. And of course, since this is the last month of Winter, things will be easier after it's over.
Not immediately though. It will take for the wind to stop blowing and for the snow to thaw, for the grey clouds to go and leave behind a wonderful blue. It will be Spring on Serenno and Obi-Wan wants nothing more than to see how the planet will look during it.
"Still brooding?", Obi-Wan heard a voice say from behind him. He turned around to find Yan standing in the doorway.
"I didn't feel you coming.", Obi-Wan said.
"You were brooding, of course you didn't.", Yan replied easily.
"I don't want to leave.", Obi-Wan blurts out. He wants to tell Yan to reassure him and tell him that he's not letting go of Obi-Wan and Anakin so soon. That he never will.
"I don't think you can, even if you want.", Yan says, glancing at the window.
"But I promised my friends to come back in two mon-"
"Your safety is more important to them, I'm sure. They can wait another month."
"Another month!?"
"It takes time for the snow to thaw."
"We will be spending five months here! Almost half a year!"
"I'm aware."
Obi-Wan stares at him for a moment too long before he broke out into laughter. Yan looked at him in surprise and bewilderment as Obi-Wan hugged him while laughing.
"I'm going to miss you.", Obi-Wan mumbled into his robes. He felt arms encircle around him.
"I'm going to miss you too.", Yan whispered softly.
He didn't protest much because he knows this is what he wants. This is where he belongs. Not somewhere else. And even if Quinlan and the rest were upset by it, Obi-Wan is finding happiness in this place.
It's been half a year since Qui-Gon's death, and Yan would be lying if he says he didn't feel as if the time is running. Yan himself had never truly taken some time to grieve, he had buried himself in work and taking care of Anakin and Obi-Wan to the point he ignored his own pain.
He missed Qui-Gon. Very much.
His death had been his last straw, he no longer believed in return Jedj Order as he did before. His anger and disappointment at them preventing him from being able to feel at home in their presence, like he once did.
As a child, Yan had always loved the Jedi and their beliefs. He had loved knowing more about the Force and would spend hours with his friend Jocasta in the archives reading. Sometimes, Yan thinks that this is the reason Yoda had chosen him. His eagerness to learn and his love to please the Force.
Or perhaps, something else. Yan never truly asked Yoda what it was, and one cannot truly know the reason without asking, but despite it all he knew it had something to do with his personality or mindset. His relationship with his former master has to be by far the worst relationship Master-Padawan duo the Jedi Order has ever seen. If not will ever see.
When he left over a decade ago, he didn't officially resign from the Order. They let him wander in whenever he wanted to do and he only did it to meet with Qui-Gon personally. Their lost encounter is too painful to remember or even think about. If Yan knew Qui-Gon's life would be taken on Naboo, he would've flipped the whole Temple upside down to insure that Qui-Gon will not go and face that Sith.
At least Obi-Wan killed him. This gives Yan's heart peace.
Lately, his heart has been turning colder and darker alongside Serenno. As cold as the harsh Winter and as dark as the gloomy clouds. Lately, it's been becoming harder to reach him.
Very few people can now reach his heart or get a smile out of him.
And try as he might, Yan still found himself in the dark, still found himself grieving, still found himself wishing that Sith is still alive so Yan can give him a piece of his mind and heart, the heart he broke by taking away Qui-Gon's life. The growing darkness is threatening to consume him whole and turn him into ashes, as if it's a cloud of acids wanting to melt away everything he is.
He must find who this Sidious is. And most importantly, he must destroy him.
"Grandpa?", Anakin's small voice snaps him out of his thoughts. Yan turns his head to look at his short grandson, who is waiting for him impatiently to say something.
"Yes, little one?", Yan asked, his hand moving to lay on Anakin's shoulder by itself.
"Are you alright?", Anakin's concerned gaze almost makes him jump.
"Of course I am. Why wouldn't I be?", Yan answers.
Anakin hummed, staring at him for a moment too long. Then, the boy moved slowly to snuggle into his side, his hand reaching out to hold Yan's hand that isn't on his shoulder. Yan wrapped his arm around him, squeezing him tightly.
"I miss Qui-Gon too", Anakin whispered after some time. The mention of his name made Yan almost jolt but he forced himself to stay still, heart pounding. "I didn't know him as much you or Obi-Wan knew him, but I miss him. He freed me, he believed in me, I owe him everything. He was also very nice, not only towards me but the other kids too."
Yes that's true, Qui-Gon adored younglings. Despite his intimidating height and stoic face, younglings all clung to him, somehow knowing he has a soft spot for them by his appearance only.
"When I won the Boonta Eve Classic he carried me on his shoulders, and he was really tall. It was fun, I liked being in the air", Anakin continued. "He heard me and..", he trailed off, Yan knew that meant he was about to say something he didn't want to say.
"He was a good person. You can feel sad about his death, it's ok, I feel sad about a lot of things but I try to make myself happy all the time.", Anakin hugs him tightly then, moving to bury his head into Yan's hip.
Anakin can actually reach his hip now.
Where did the time go?
How is Yan supposed to move on without him or Obi-Wan? How is he supposed to let go of them?
"Love you Grandpa.", came Anakin's muffled voice.
Yan swallowed. "I love you too.", this is the first time he had ever said it, or dared to say it.
When Anakin pulled back, he had his cheeky grin on his face, and as Yan smiled back, his heart felt a little bit lighter.
Perhaps all is not lost, in the end.
The next month came by.
The weather is getting warmer and the snow is thawing. The ice is melting off of the sea and the mountains have shards of their original colour between all the white.
But Yan's heart didn't warm like Serenno did.
"Next week, I'm taking you both to the forest.", Yan told Anakin and Obi-Wan while they were eating at dinner at T.D.D
"Forest? What's a forest?", Anakin asked while chewing, head tilted to the side.
"Don't talk while you're eating, dear, it's inappropriate", Obi-Wan gently told him. "And a forest is a place full of trees and animals. Sometimes hills and rivers."
"So forests are green?", Anakin asked, this time after he finished chewing.
Obi-Wan smiled at him. "Yes, forests are green. Unless it's snowing, of course, then it will be white."
Anakin gasped comically, eyes hazy with imagination. Obi-Wan laughed softly at his Padawan's antics, and then gently nudged him, gaining his attention.
"Eat your dinner now, Ani", Obi-Wan said. "It's too cold to go visit it now, and it won't be as beautiful as it is when it's full of greenery."
"I disagree, Obi-Wan", Yan said. "I do like the forest more when it's Wintery, but for both of your sakes', we will go when it's not frozen."
"Grandpa, how do you like the cold?", Anakin asked. "I don't like it! It's way too cold and it makes my bones freeze!"
"You're not used to the cold, little one", Yan told him. "I am. Some people prefer the cold, some don't. Each one of us has a different opinion and preferences and we should respect them."
"But what if they hurt someone with their opinion?", Anakin asked.
"Then we respectfully tell them not to say it in front of them.", Yan replied, pouring himself a cup of tea.
"And what if it's me that got hurt?", Anakin asked again.
"Then you tell them that their actions and words hurt you and it wasn't nice of them.", Yan replied patiently, seemingly not bothered by Anakin's questions.
"And if they don't listen?"
"You leave them alone and don't interact with them again."
Anakin hummed, thinking of what Yan just said.
"What if they follow me?"
"Tell them not to."
"And if they don't listen?"
"You run away."
"Where?"
"Anywhere."
"What if they run after me?"
"Anakin-", Obi-Wan piped in between his chuckles. Anakin looked at him in genuine confusion, not realising he has been bombarding Yan with his endless questions.
"What?", he asked, head titled to the side.
"No one will do that to you, little one.", Obi-Wan said ruffling his hair.
Anakin seemed to think about that, but then shrugged and started eating again. Obi-Wan has to give it to Yan that he's extremely patient, he can't imagine how well he will do with someone asking him this many questions.
"Grandpa?", Anakin asked.
"Yes, little one?", Yan asked.
"Can you tuck me in tonight?", Anakin moved from his chair to drape himself over Yan's lap.
Tonight, Anakin will sleep in his own bed, since it's the first day of the week. He always went to bed with no problem, no need to be tucked in. Shmi had told them he insisted to do tuck himself in bed by himself when he was six, saying he was a big boy now.
It's adorable how Anakin asked that of Yan.
"Of course, little one.", Yan ran his fingers through Anakin's hair.
Anakin smiled brightly. "Splendid!", he said as he moved away from Yan's lap to go and continue eating, making them all chuckle. He must have gotten this word from either Obi-Wan or Yan.
"Make sure to eat all of your vegetables, Ani.", Shmi told her son making him groan.
"Eat them so you can be as tall as Yan!", Jenza encouraged.
Anakin immediately straightened up, looking interested. "If I eat them I will become as tall as Grandpa Yan?"
"Yeah!"
"Is Obi-Wan short because he didn't eat his vegetables?"
Obi-Wan huffed indigenously. "I am not short, my very small Padawan."
"You are!", Anakin cried.
"I'm not!"
"You are!"
"I'm not!"
"You ar-"
"Alright alright, enough", Yan said. "Eat your food silently."
Anakin and Obi-Wan huffed but complied, both sulking a bit. The sight made Yan's heart squeeze with incredible fondness. Force he got very attached to them in only four months.
Letting go of them will be impossible now.
"So you're telling me you've been gone for four months now and you're planning on staying a fifth?!", Siri looked and sounded incredible annoyed.
Obi-Wan hesitated. "Yes."
"But Obes! It's been so long! And we miss you!", Quinlan said.
"You have a life here, Obi-Wan", Reeft agreed. "Come back to it."
"I will but just in time, it's too dangerous to fly in this weather.", Obi-Wan explained feebly.
"It's still snowing?", Garen asked incredulously.
"Yes, but the snow is thawing. By the end of the next month, I'll be back.", Obi-Wan was quick to reassure.
"And we will gladly wait another month, Obi-Wan", Bant cut in before any of their friends did, and by the looks on their faces, they're not too happy with the new development. "Just don't take too long, we miss you and we hope to meet Anakin once more."
Obi-Wan gave her a strained small, hoping that it doesn't look as weak as he felt at this moment. "Of course, I wouldn't dare."
The rest of the conversation was almost silent, only Bant and Obi-Wan are talking and he knows the rest of his friends don't feel like talking to him after he told them he's not going to come back. Again.
The call lasted only fifteen minutes, and despite Bant's apologetic look about the behavior of the others, Obi-Wan still felt bad for causing his friends such distress.
Still, he can't find it in himself to truly regret his choice to stay here.
Padmè left the court rooms for the third time this week, feeling exhausted. It took too much of her time and too much of her energy, she hadn't been on Naboo for two weeks now and she missed it dearly. She wanted nothing more than to run back to her people and start using the money to help them but she can't. She has to stay on Coruscant.
For them. She told herself as her handmaidens removed her makeup. I'm doing this for my people. For what they lost and cannot bring back.
Padmè is doing this for her planet, for her people. The people who rely on her and look up to her. The people who say Queen Amidala with a touch of wonder. The people who have already carved her name in stones and made windows in the Palace with her pictures on it. The people who suffered and lost so much but still trust her very deeply.
She had failed the Naboo by allowing the Trade Federation to invade it, but she will not fail it now by allowing the murderers of their victims by roaming free. She will sue the Neimodians and prove them wrong and bring justice to her people.
She will show the galaxy that no one will mess with the Naboo and leave without consequences.
She didn't feel like Padmè much nowadays, she is Queen Amidala.
Today, the families of the victims have spoken and the surviving victims themselves have spoken as well. While Gunray was questioned, he had said a 'Lord Sidious' had paid him to invade the Naboo. He had said that he didn't know of Lord Sidious' identity, since he only cared about the money given to him, and Lord Sidious didn't want to give his identity away.
For the past three weeks, the investigators have been trying to find that Sidious and know why he wanted to invade the Naboo.
No answers were found and Padmè has a feeling it will be a closed case soon.
Only one week. She told herself as her hair was taken out of the metal pieces. One week, and I'll be going home.
She will give it her all, she will save her planet and help her people. She will bring justice to the names of the lost.
She is Padmè Amidala, she can do whatever she wants if she puts her mind to it.
"Grandpa Yan?", Anakin asked as Yan covered him with his first blanket till it covered his chin.
"Yes?", Yan asked as he dotted over Anakin.
"Do you miss being a Jedi?", Anakin asked, stifling a yawn.
Yan paused to think about the question. Did he miss being a Jedi?
Yes. He missed the Room of a Thousand Fountains, he missed the feeling of the Force flowing through the Temple, the small innocent Force signatures of the younglings, his own lightsaber. Maybe a certain librarian.
"Yes", he admitted as he added the second blanket, tucking it around Anakin the same way he did to the first. "I do."
"Do you regret your choice?", Anakin asked as he snuggled closer as Yan added a third blanket.
Does he? No, he doesn't. He found himself a family here, Anakin and Obi-Wan, Shmi and Jenza. His people, his home, the forest, the Park, Carannia, the Castle. He doesn't regret leaving behind the Jedi to come live here.
"No", he says at last. "I don't. Now, enough with your chatter and go to bed, you need to sleep."
"Give me a kiss", Anakin pouted. "Mum always did when she tucked me in."
Yan stared at him for a moment before he sighed, leaning down and kissing Anakin's small forehead. Anakin grinned at him one last time before he turned to his right side and closing his eyes.
Yan felt his throat construct, thinking about how he won't be able to do that in less than three weeks. How Anakin's warm body won't be tucked against him during one night of the week.
It's like losing Qui-Gon all over again.
Somehow, Anakin and Obi-Wan had kept a part of him alive. Obi-Wan who spent more than a decade with him and Anakin who reminded Yan of Qui-Gon very much. Them being away will be like letting go of Qui-Gon all over again.
"Sleep well, Anakin.", Yan whispered as he kissed the boy's forehead once more and left the room.
"Queen Amidala", Senator Theodar bowed to her. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person."
Padmè carefully eyed him. "Likewise, Senator. I'm grateful for your help that led to the aid of my planet."
"The Naboo is more than welcome, my lady", Theodar returned, standing to his full height. "The Count and Countess had told me that by next week, they can fly in and out of the planet again. If the Naboo ever needs help, Serenno would be more than happy to offer it."
Padmè herself was surprised with how much help the Naboo is getting, but she is not about to complain. Serennian monarchies seem genuinely concerned about the Naboo and want to help it. But Padmè is no fool, she knows there must be sort of a catch somewhere.
But aren't all political parties like that? All political relationships are built to aid each other, to take goods from one another. When it comes to politics, everything is about what you can offer.
Naboo can offer lots of good, if it weren't for the time of crisis. Serenno is a rich planet as well, the Senator isn't popular among in the Senate but that can also serve to his advantage. Sereonnians are smart, Padmè has to give them that.
She had quickly learned that when it's politics, there aren't any real friends, only hunger to make one's planet better.
Padmè will seize the chance for her own planet.
"Thank you, Senator", Padmè said at last. "Please deliver my gratitude to their Royal Highness."
"Of course. They were more than happy to know about how Naboo got it's aid, I, myself, am very happy about the results.", Theodar has a silver tongue, Padmè noted.
"Do you think the Senatorial Courts will be just when it comes to our case?", Padmè asked. She noticed that Theodar knows far more than Greejatus, he is far better help.
"I have no reason to believe otherwise. While the Senate itself is corrupt, the rules stay the same", Theodar replied easily. "The judge will be on your side, she already is, no need to fret."
"Next week will hold the last three trials", Padmè said. "I would like for you to be there, as someone who is part of the Senate."
She's testing his loyalty and his smarts, and that's not an easy task.
"I will be there, your Majesty.", Theodar says, surprising her. Perhaps he is genuine about wanting to help the Naboo.
"Made any new progress?", Theodar asks after a small while.
"Unfortunately, no. Gunray said they were paid by a Lord Sidious to invade the Naboo. The identity of that Sidious remains unknown.", Padmè said, watching his closely.
Theodar's face remains unreadable. "Lord Sidious? That's all Gunray knows about him?"
"Yes. He said Sidious did not want his identity to be known.", Padmè said.
"Interesting.", Theodar muttered.
"Indeed."
"Your Majesty?", Padmè turned to see Sabè standing in the doorway.
"Senator Greejatus wants to have a word with you."
"Of course, I will be right there", Padmè said before turning to Theodar. "It's a shame I'll have to leave now, Senator. Tell the Count and Countess of my thanks."
Theodar bowed. "I will, your Majesty."
"Lord Sidious?", Yan asked. "As in the Sith Master?"
Theodar nodded. "It seems so, my lord."
"Why did Sidious want to invade the Naboo?", Jenza asked. "What would he gain from it?"
"I have no idea.", Yan said. "Why did he pay a large amount of money for an invasion like this one?"
"Perhaps, he knew the Senate will not be of much help.", Theodar suggested.
"But he didn't know that Queen Amidala will not stand for it", Jenza said. "Next week will be the last three trials, right?"
Theodar nodded. "Yes. She asked me to speak on her behalf as a Republican Senator. I agreed, of course, when Amidala wins the case, we will earn about a quarter of the money."
"Which will serve to our advantage.", Yan realised.
"Especially at these times", Jenza added. "Smart move, Senator. You never cease to amaze me."
"What can I say? Anything for the Serenno.", Theodar said, giving a small dramatic bow.
"Any other new developments?", Yan asked.
"No, everything is going considerably well.", Theodar said.
"Thank the Force.", Yan muttered.
Theodar laughed. "Relax, Count. We will get to the bottom of this."
"Be careful of the attention you will gain in the Senate after you speak in the Courts.", Jenza warned.
"I will, my lady. Now, I'm afraid I must go.", Theodar bowed to them and they bowed back before he disappeared.
"That Sidious is everywhere!", Jenza said in frustration. "And he must have lots of money to pay the Neimodians."
"We know one thing about him now", Yan said. "He's wealthy, extremely so. And he apparently has something against the Naboo."
"That makes it two things.", Jenza pointed out.
"It's not of importance.", Yan said.
Jenza huffed. "We will have to get to the bottom of this faster, Yan."
"I know, but be patient. All will dissolve by itself.", Yan reassured her.
Next week, Yan found himself with Anakin clinging to his hand as they walked into the flourishing forest. Obi-Wan is on Anakin's other side, holding his other hand.
The forest looks breathtaking. Tall trees with flowers and small plants of all colours here and there, the forest is covered by so many plants to the point sunlight cannot shine through, giving the forest a cozy shade. The birds are singing and the animals are moving around, rustling.
Anakin flinched at each sound, clinging to their hands tighter. Yan sent him a soothing wave through their bond in the Force, squeezing his hand tightly.
"Animals will not harm you, little one", he reassured the boy. "The forest here is safe."
"What if something comes out to get me?", Anakin asked in fear.
"Nothing and no one can get you while we're here.", Obi-Wan said fiercely, making Anakin nod his head vigorously.
"Can you close your eyes, Anakin?", Yan asked him. Anakin closed his eyes in response.
"Good, very good. Now, reach out through the Force, and feel everything around you.", Yan instructed him gently.
After a few moments, Anakin gasped and opened his eyes again, looking at the forest around him in newfound wonder. His Force signature bright with astonishment.
"There's a nest full of birds on the tree over there!", Anakin let go of Obi-Wan's hand to point at the said tree. "The mum is feeding its children and they are happy!"
Then he pointed to the flower next to Yan's feet, letting go of his hand in the process. "And this flower is sad because it doesn't have any sunlight! And there's a river a few miles away!"
"You felt it?", Obi-Wan asked in wonder.
Anakin nodded excitedly. "Yeah! And I felt the fish in it!"
"That's amazing, Anakin.", Obi-Wan said happily, setting a hand on his shoulder. Anakin beamed at the praise.
Then Anakin bolted into the forest, Obi-Wan running after him, yelling his name. Yan chuckled at their antics before he followed them at a more sedate pace.
"Mum said I once tamed a Krayt Dragon when I was three", Anakin said as they all sat down next to each other on the white rocks. "It was after Watto bought us! We were travelling through the Dunes with other slavers and slaves. It was nighttime and one of the slaves was being whipped by one of the slavers' son.
Then a Krayt Dragon appeared out of the sand and attacked everyone. I moved towards it and we talked for a while."
"Talked?", Obi-Wan asked incredulously.
"Yeah! We made a connection in our heads and the Krayt Dragon told me he doesn't like to be disturbed and he hates slavery on Tatooine!", Anakin said it like it's a normal occurrence.
"And then?", Yan asked.
"Mum told me to make it go away and then told me to never do it again.", Anakin shrugged. "She said the other slavers will take me away if they knew of my powers."
Silence fell over Yan and Obi-Wan, who looked at each other, clearly disturbed. Anakin, however, kept on playing with the dirt as if nothing happened.
"I wish I can see Krayt Dragons again.", Anakin admitted.
I hope not. Obi-Wan thought privately, not wanting Anakin back on Tatooine. I truly hope not.
"Perhaps, it's best if you don't.", Yan said, ruffling Anakin's hair.
"Yeah, I don't wanna go back to Tatooine.", Anakin said earnestly.
"And you won't.", Obi-Wan said firmly.
Anakin gave him a bright smile and then proceeded to tell him about another adventure, making Obi-Wan and Yan smile once more.
Yan, Anakin and Obi-Wan visited the forest more often. Perhaps Anakin tamed more and more animals. Perhaps Obi-Wan found solace in the forest.
Either way, new beautiful memories were created there.
"Queen Amidala of the Naboo", the judge calls loudly. "In front of the whole court, I declare that you've won this case."
Padmè wanted to bow down and thank Shiraya for this moment.
"As for the Neimodians, each one of you responsible will be taken out of office and be executed. And the Neimodians shall pay Queen Amidala one million Republic credits."
Padmè allowed herself to smile. Finally.
"250,000 Republic credits!", Jenza said in glee. "This will certainly help us a great deal!"
"Indeed, my lady. Add to that, Queen Amidala had requested to make deeper political connections with Serenno.", Theodar added to the good news.
"Tell her we agree, and we will be more than happy to have an ally like the Naboo.", Yan said.
"I will, my lord.", Theodar promised.
"Thank you, Senator", Jenza said smiling. "Without you, we couldn't of done it."
"No need to thank me, Countess", Theodar waved her off. "I'm merely doing my job."
"You're a loyal friend, Theodar", Yan said. "One I'm very proud we have."
"And I'm very proud to be on your side, my lord.", Theodar bowed to them in respect.
Jenza and Yan bowed in return.
When the call ended, Jenza surprised Yan by pulling him into a hug. Yan awkwardly hugged her back, making her laugh.
"We are getting closer to discovering this scheme!", Jenza said happily. "This calls for a celebration!"
Yan sighed in fondness as his sister practically ran to the door, her Force signature alive with glee.
For the next week, all the media is talking about is how Queen Amidala managed to sue the Neimodians and save her planet from it's crisis. The Naboo bounced back amazingly with the aid it got, and the joyous celebrations were filmed and posted all across the media.
One thing for sure, Amidala had become so very loved by her people.
She had also gained Yan's respect, which is something hard to do.
Jenza had indeed called for a celebration. She ordered for cakes and sweets of all kinds to be made, and Anakin spent the whole night munching on them. They played a few games, talked about everything and even had a pillow fight.
By the end of the night, everyone went to bed happy and warm. Even Yan felt like some of the darkness has dissipated.
The month ended, Anakin and Obi-Wan were standing on the platform, their backs to their ships. Yan felt his heart squeeze at the sight of them leaving.
"Take care of each other and eat well", Shmi instructed them both as she had one hand on each boy's cheek. "If any problem happens between you two, talk about it. And if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call."
"Ok mum!", Anakin said as he ran into her arms, Shmi squeezed him tightly, kissing his head.
"Love you, Ani.", she whispered, and Anakin whispered it back.
When she finished saying goodbye to Anakin - who ran into Jenza's arms, who was tearful - she turned to Obi-Wan and held him against her tightly. Obi-Wan hugged her back just as tightly.
Yan could hear them exchanging the same words Shmi and Anakin did just a few moments ago. Anakin let go of Jenza - who took Obi-Wan in her arms while crying now - and ran to hug Yan.
Yan picked him up swiftly, hugging him tightly. "Promise to take care of Obi-Wan?", Yan asked playfully, squeezing Anakin tighter.
"I promise.", Anakin said solemnly.
Yan chuckled and kissed his head before he put him on the ground and took Obi-Wan in his arms.
"Whenever you need something, anything, reach out", Yan said firmly, holding Obi-Wan tightly. "Don't be a stranger."
Obi-Wan pulled back to smile. "I won't."
With one last group hug, Anakin and Obi-Wan departed to board the ship, Lord Keren and Lady Kenda waiting for them inside.
Yan watched the ship fly along with Jenza and Shmi until it became a faint dot in the sky, then nothing.
He can never let them go.
A/N : WOOHOO! CHAPTER 11 LET'S GO! Hope you guys enjoy this! Tell me what you think!
DS2010 : Thank you! And the snowball fight was my fav as well!
Guest : Hmmm, never thought of that, I'll probably make Anakin meet Qui-Gon himself in the next chapters. I'm glad you liked it!