Chapter 11

The Loyalist forces worked tirelessly throughout the night to rescue survivors and restore some semblance of order to Theed. By dawn the fires had been put out, power was restored to all but the most outlying areas and those in need of medical care were receiving treatment.

Dawn was edging its way across the horizon as Anakin slowed his swoop bike through what remained of the city's old residential district. As one of the oldest and most affluent parts of the city, the northern quarter was renowned for its elaborate gardens and spectacular vistas. This was the area Padmé's family had called home until yesterday.

As he looked around he felt his objectivity slipping. Now that he was here - where Padmé grew up - he could feel anger edging its way forward. He had yet to come across her house, but every ruined dwelling he passed reminded him how easily she could have lost her entire family. His family now too, he reminded himself, even if they didn't know it.

Resolutely he pushed the anger aside to be dealt with later. Right now, he had to find Obi-Wan.

Somewhere in the midst of all this chaos his master was working with a sizeable excavation crew. For over an hour the command center had been trying to reach him by comlink, but had been unable to make contact. Apparently the static interference common to blast sites was jamming all electronic communications in that area.

Normally they would wait for the charge to dissipate and try again, but time was in short supply. Master Windu had summoned every Jedi on Naboo to gather at the palace steps shortly after sunrise and Obi-Wan was the only crew leader who hadn't been informed.

Anakin had stumbled into the job of finding him after checking in with the Council once his assigned area had been secured. Master Windu himself had suggested that Anakin might want to track down his master and return him for the meeting. Normally he would've chaffed at such a menial assignment, but he had to admit with the Force connection they shared he really was the practical choice. It surprised him to realize he didn't mind serving as errand boy. The difference, he was sure, lay in the fact that the council had heeded his word. For the first time it seemed they had trusted him completely, enough to commit major military reinforcements to Naboo based on his word alone.

The sense that Obi-Wan was close by had grown steadily stronger in the past few minutes. Anakin focused on the source of his master's presence, turning onto a particularly rocky path leading sharply uphill. He hadn't gone far when he saw a crew working to move durasteel beams and stone from the charred remains of several moderately sized cliff-face dwellings.

As Anakin drew closer he easily recognized the only soldier with Jedi garb to complement his body armor. Obi-Wan stood silently amidst the rubble with eyes closed, one hand gently stroking his beard. His expression was calm, meditative, but the furrow between his brows betrayed his intense concentration.

Anakin parked the swoop near the edge of the cliff and made his way over the debris.

"Hello Padawan." Obi-Wan greeted him without opening his eyes. "How go things at your end of the world?"

"We finished our survey of the eastern sector." Anakin replied, "At least 300 are confirmed dead there." His master's frown grew deeper with that information, but Anakin continued. "I was sent to find you. Master Windu wants us all to meet with him at the palace immediately."

"Com-links out again?"

"Unfortunately." It was the standard state of affairs.

Obi-Wan took a deep breath before exhaling slowly and dropping his hand to his side. He blinked rapidly as his eyes adjusted to the brightening sky. The familiar blue-gray of those orbs reflected only weariness and discouragement and it suddenly occurred to Anakin that his master had never seemed quite so tired or….well…old. For the first time he noticed the new wings of gray threading through Obi-Wan's ginger hair.

"How are things here?" He asked.

"Futile, actually." Obi-Wan answered. "This was one of the hardest hit areas and the life-sign sensor equipment is not performing well. I'm doing the best I can without it, but it's been hours since we found someone alive. Since then I haven't felt anything even remotely encouraging."

Given the extent of the destruction around them Anakin couldn't say he was surprised.

Finding those who were clinging to life was a difficult task even in ideal circumstances, which these definitely were not. Situations like this catered to recovering the dead, not rescuing the living. So far, the death toll among the Naboo had risen into the thousands. With every report it was climbing and they had yet to receive any authoritative information from the Gungan cities.

"This was my last area," His master continued, "so I guess we can be on our way. I'm confident we won't find anyone else here." Anakin nodded. He had to admit his own perceptions were the same.

Obi-Wan shouted an order to one of his Captains, telling them to proceed to the next sector as he turned to follow Anakin. His eyes widened in surprise at the swoop bike. "I don't suppose it occurred to you to bring a speeder?"

"No, master," he deadpanned, "I know how you love the wind in your hair." He couldn't swear to it, but Anakin thought he saw Obi-Wan's lip curl in his customary slight smile.

"True." The older Jedi agreed without enthusiasm. "That's what I like about you, Padawan. Your unceasing concern that my every wish be fulfilled." Yes, there was definitely a hint of ironic humor in his master's voice. "I don't suppose you brought any crash gear? A helmet maybe?" Anakin shrugged helplessly. "No, I didn't think so."

It was one of those rare moments when they were completely at ease with each other - the kind that had been too few and far between of late. Before he could stop them Anakin found words spilling from his lips. "Master, before we go, could I ask you a question?"

The sudden seriousness of Anakin's tone must have registered and all traces of teasing vanished from Obi-Wan's demeanor. "Of course."

"There is a melting pit in the generator complex. Pad…er, the Senator and I came through it on our way into the palace."

Obi-Wan inclined his head slightly, as if to say that he did, indeed, remember the area.

"When we went through there, something made me stop. The air was so oppressive and cold. I've never felt anything like it." Anakin went on to explain the disturbing visions he'd been shown, of Qui-Gon's death at the hands of the Sith Lord and Obi-Wan's subsequent victory.

His master's reaction was completely unexpected. It was almost as if he were stunned - not so much by the story itself, but by the fact that it was Anakin telling it. He ran a hand across his beard, staring vacantly into the distance.

"Curious, that the Force chose to give you such a revelation. The Council specifically told me never to speak of that day – the events that occurred, the choices I made, those were mine alone. Aside from those Council members, I've never told anyone."

Anakin suddenly realized the depth of the glimpse he'd been given into his master's soul. "I won't speak of it to anyone." Though his promise was earnestly given, there was still one question burning in his mind. One thing he had to ask. There might never be a better time.

"Did you ever blame yourself because Master Qui-Gon was killed? For not being there with him at that moment to protect him, for not being fast enough…"

Obi-Wan's response was a long time coming. He crossed his arms thoughtfully and leaned back against a large rock.

"That was the darkest day of my life, watching the Sith cut down Qui-Gon in front of me. In that instance I was completely helpless and I will never forget that feeling." His eyes turned piercing as he looked back at Anakin. "Guilt is another matter entirely. Certainly I deep regret that I wasn't there alongside my master, but Anakin, guilt isn't a feeling a Jedi can afford to embrace. If I spent my whole life looking back and wishing I'd run faster, that I hadn't slipped, that I'd been a better swordsman, what would it have accomplished? It would not bring Qui-Gon back. Guilt cannot change what has been, but it can profoundly affect the future."

For the first time in years Anakin broke eye contact, dropping his gaze to somewhere around the region of Obi-Wan's feet. It was a gesture he'd adopted as a ten-year old whenever someone – usually Obi-Wan – was being too perceptive.

"Somehow I sense this isn't about my own struggles." Obi-Wan sighed deeply as he stood up straight. "Anakin, look at me."

Uncertainty flickered across Obi-Wan's face when his padawan's eyes met his, but it didn't keep him from speaking his mind. "I know you have secrets and I'm not going to pretend to know or understand what they are, but you've got to rid yourself of the things that haunt you. Guilt, anger, deception -" Anakin felt the fear reflected in his expression, but for once he couldn't manage to hide it "- yes, I know you can't reconcile not saving your mother – that, and so many other burdens you've taken upon yourself. But Anakin, you have no right to those burdens. People choose their own paths, roads that lead to life or death, and we can't take that power away from them no matter how much we want to. No authority in the universe, not the most powerful Jedi, the Chosen child of prophecy or even the Force itself can change that."

Anakin turned away, feeling stricken by Obi-Wan's words. Burdens he had no right to? Was it true that his mother had chosen her own path? How could he accept what his master was telling him? How could he just go on knowing that he could have changed things if only he'd gotten there sooner? He spun back to face his master.

Obi-Wan looked faintly surprised and Anakin knew it was an expression he shared. He couldn't help feeling taken aback that he had allowed himself to say so much. But why not? At this point neither of them had anything to gain from holding back. Though he conceded that blunt honesty was the road less traveled between them, he wasn't finding it as uncomfortable a trip as he'd imagined it would be.

"I… Master, I…" Anakin tried to speak, only to find he was once again at a loss for words.

Obi-Wan put a hand on his shoulder, his voice gentling. "Look, you've been lying to me for quite some time now about something very important. Why doesn't matter. I'm sure you feel you have your reasons. But the deception is changing you. It will just keep eating at your heart until there isn't anything left of Anakin Skywalker." Anakin's eyes blurred and he blinked rapidly to dispel the hot rush of tears. His master continued, "I'm sorry, it might be wrong of me, but when I look at you I don't see the "Chosen One" destined to save the galaxy. I see that little boy I met on Tatooine, trying to figure out where he fits. I also see a good man, a friend, who has spent his life trying to live up to standards no human being can possibly meet. Please, Anakin, be honest with me. Trust me. I promise I'll do my best to help you."

At that moment Anakin wanted nothing more. He opened his mouth to speak.

The sudden insistent beeping of Obi-Wan's comlink broke the silence. He gazed ruefully at Anakin, irritation evident in every line of his body as he plucked the offensive device from his belt. "We're not finished."

Anakin grinned broadly as he used his tunic sleeve to wipe his face. No, they definitely weren't, but suddenly it wasn't important. Telling Obi-Wan about Padmé, about the Tuskens, all that could be done later. Suddenly his heart was lighter than it had any right to be under the circumstances. For the first time in a very long time he felt he truly had his master back. No, his friend. Now there was a reason to hope Obi-Wan would understand the choices he'd made. Perhaps everything would be all right.

"This is General Kenobi." His master responded to the insistent page with clipped annoyance as Anakin mounted the swoop.

"General." It was Mace Windu, sounding equally exasperated. "Is your padawan with you?"

"Yes, Master, he is." Obi-Wan had the grace to sound sheepish.

"Could I trouble the two of you to join the rest of us here at the palace?" It was not a question.

"Yes, sir. We're on our way." Obi-Wan slid the comlink back into his belt and hopped behind Anakin on the repulsor bike. In less than a second they were racing back towards the palace.

When Anakin pulled the swoop to a stop at the Royal palace there were nearly two-dozen Jedi sitting in a loose semicircle on the steps. He barely had time to swing his leg off the bike before Obi-Wan clapped a hand on his shoulder to nudge him toward the gathering.

Mace Windu was talking casually to the group from where he stood at the foot of the steps. He managed to project his usual dignified air despite the mud caked on his tunic and boots. Anakin was suddenly acutely aware of the dirt and grime that covered him.

There was small consolation in the fact that no one else had taken time to clean up either.

Master Aayla Secura was covered in so much dust that her vivid blue skin appeared a washed out gray. Her new padawan, a green-skinned Twi'lek boy, wasn't faring much better.

Next to them sat Barriss Offee, who looked by far the worst off of the bunch. From her wet, bedraggled state he could only guess that she'd been assigned to one of the lake recovery teams. Anakin recalled the vastly different picture she'd presented at her knighting ceremony last season. The contrast between her usually meticulous grooming and her current impression of a drowned womp-rat struck Anakin as particularly funny. She looked up suddenly and grinned as if sensing his amusement. He smiled and nodded back before doing his best to slip discreetly up the steps toward the back of the circle.

He found a spot quickly, dropping gracefully in behind Lieri Adana, an Alderaani padawan five years his junior. He knew her from the training arena at the Temple – she spent a great deal of time there working to compensate for her notorious lack of grace. Anakin teased her constantly about her footwork, but she always took it well, never missing a chance to retaliate with banter of her own. Today was no exception as she leaned back and chided him in a whisper. "Sorry, Skywalker, even covered in dirt you're too pretty to sneak in unnoticed." He reached forward and ruffled her short brown hair before settling on the steps.

Obi-Wan approached Master Windu, giving him an update on the progress of his last few sectors. Fellow council members Adi Gallia and Saesee Tiin rose to listen in. After conferring quietly for a moment all three remained standing next to Mace as the Council leader turned to address the gathering. It occurred to Anakin how at home Obi-Wan looked up there with the other Jedi Masters. He made a mental note to ask him later if there was any truth to the rumor that he'd been offered Deepa Billaba's place on the Council.

Though every eye was on him already Mace Windu commanded attention by clearing his throat before speaking. "As you all know, the Jedi need to leave Naboo soon. There is still much to do here, but the Republic Relief Effort is sending crews to assist. Within the hour Queen Jamillia will give a statement to publicly answer questions about Naboo on the galactic front." He began pacing back and forth, on his face an expression of deep concentration. "As far as the status of the other worlds that came under attack yesterday, I will tell you what little I know. According to Master Yoda on Kamino, the cloning facilities are secured though they sustained heavy damage and production will be effected. Master Fisto on Mon Calamari and Master Piell on Taanab report heavy troop casualties. We have sent reinforcements to assist them both. The Wookies on Kashyyyk have their situation well in hand, as evidenced by Master Tiin's presence here. Masters Poof and Unduli have secured a resounding victory on Ryloth, while Master Ki-Adi-Mundi and his troops have done almost as well on Bothauwi." He stopped pacing, allowing his gaze to drift from one weary Jedi to the next.

"I don't think I need to tell any of you how lucky we were that Anakin Skywalker was here on Naboo. He was instrumental in rescuing their Queen from almost certain death. In addition, through his efforts the single greatest threat to the Jedi Order in millennia has finally been revealed." The entire group straightened perceptively, their tiredness banished by their curiosity. "We've known for quite some time that the former Jedi Count Dooku of Serenno was leading the Separatist rebellion against the Republic. Now, however, we have confirmed our suspicions that he is also a Sith." A low murmur filtered through the group, ceasing only when Master Windu continued. "The implications of that have yet to be ascertained, but you can rest assured that Master Yoda and I will meditate on it more fully in days to come."

As will I, Anakin thought to himself. Sith or not, taking out Dooku was his new personal mission. In addition to the satisfaction he would receive from getting that job done, he knew such a loss would deal a death-blow to the Confederacy. If they were lucky, it would remove the cornerstone from the uneasy union. One thing was becoming clear. Ending this war was the only way to ensure Padmé's safety.

"There is one final item of business before I dismiss you all to return to Coruscant." Mace stopped speaking and looked directly at Anakin. "Padawan Skywalker, would you join us down here a moment?" Anakin winced, surprised to be singled out at this point.

All eyes turned to him. Though the inquiry had been politely posed as a question, it was clear from the firmness in the Jedi Master's voice that refusing was not an option. Rising quickly to his feet, he tried to brush the driest of the dirt off his tunic before descending the stairs. He could've sworn he heard Lieri mutter something about being in trouble again.

When he stopped in front of Master Windu, his usual confidence had deserted him. He was tempted to make a flip comment, hoping it would dispel his nervousness, but a sidelong glance at Obi-Wan's stern expression ruled that out. He settled for clasping his hands behind his back and quietly facing the leader of the Jedi Council.

"Padawan," Mace began, "your actions here on Naboo have clearly shown your resourcefulness, your excellent judgment and your maturity. At this time it is the decision of the Council to heed the recommendation of your Master and elevate you to the rank of Jedi Knight."

Anakin's knees went weak at the unexpected announcement. Somehow he managed to remain standing even as Master Windu grasped his shoulders and turned him to face the assembled Jedi. He was at once humbled and surprised to find that the entire exhausted crew from moments before had risen to their feet in a timeless gesture of respect.

Mace was still speaking but for the life of him Anakin couldn't understand the words he said. All he could hear over the blood rushing in his ears were the joyous exclamations from Lieri and the other padawans. Their outbursts were hastily subdued after several pointed glances from the surrounding knights.

When he felt Obi-Wan's steadying grip on his shoulder he reached for the Force connection he knew would be there. Out of habit he drew on his master's reassuring presence to re-center himself. Another presence was making itself felt as well, though not through the Force. This one, though equally familiar and bright, was not a Jedi. Padmé.

Frantically his eyes sought her out. There she was, at the top of the stairs, looking officious and very solemn in a midnight-blue dress and matching cape. Standing with the Queen and a small group of Royal guards, she had yet to notice the events unfolding only a few flights below. Then, almost as if he had willed it, she became aware of his stare. Looking down, she acknowledged her husband's stunned expression with a quizzical look of her own.

Anakin was jolted back to the present by a firm tug on his padawan braid. Obi-Wan had stepped in front of him and was staring at him curiously. The small vibroblade clasped in his fingers betrayed his intent. Almost involuntarily Anakin covered his Master's hand with his own, suddenly finding himself reluctant to dissolve their union. Their eyes met and a wealth of understanding passed between them. In a moment he would no longer be bound to this man who had taught him so much. Anakin wanted to say something, anything, but a slight negative shake of Obi-Wan's head told him no words were necessary.

The momentary flash of uncertainty gave way to a flood of exhilaration and he slowly, deliberately released his master's hand. Obi-Wan took the motion as permission to continue and grasped Anakin's padawan braid, raising the cutting tool purposely.

Anakin glanced over his master's head, once more meeting Padmé's bewildered gaze. In that instant he felt the draw of the vibroblade as it severed twelve-years of commitment to Obi-Wan Kenobi.

He could see Padmé gasp, raising a hand to her mouth as she realized the significance of the small ceremony. Even from this distance Anakin could see tears of happiness spill onto her cheeks. She brushed them away impatiently, a broad smile lighting her face. It was all the reassurance he needed. He grinned broadly as he heard the ebullient cheers of the padawans and knights now gathered around him.

This time Anakin listened and understood as Master Windu bade him to greet his fellow knights as equals. Obi-Wan claimed the first congratulatory embrace, squeezing Anakin tight enough to break ribs before pulling back and tucking the detached braid into Anakin's belt pouch.

Hug after hug passed in a blur as Knight and Padawan alike congratulated him. Though lost in the moment, he kept glancing up at Padmé. His wife was doing her best to appear businesslike and help the Queen prepare to speak, but from the sidelong looks she kept sending him it was clear that her heart was with Anakin at the foot of the stairs.

Finally the excitement of the moment died down and the Jedi began to disperse. Master Windu stepped in for a final handshake before wandering off on official business. Anakin was almost surprised to find himself standing alone with Obi-Wan.

"I don't know what to say… besides…thank you." Anakin felt a little self-conscious now that all was said and done. "Those words seem far too simple, too inadequate… I owe you so much -"

"Nonsense." Obi-Wan seemed equally uncomfortable with the notion of gratitude.

The awkward moment dissipated at the sound of a distinctly feminine voice. "Master Kenobi, Anakin." It was Padmé, looking beautiful, but all too formal. "It would please the Queen if you would join her on the platform as she makes her statement. You were both invaluable in her rescue and she wishes to show her appreciation by giving you a place of honor."

"Oh, I don't think - " Obi-Wan started, only to have Anakin cut him off.

"Please tell Her Majesty that it would be our privilege to attend." Anakin accepted the invitation with the typical Jedi formality. Obi-Wan flashed him an annoyed look, but Anakin just smiled rakishly. "It wouldn't do to offend the Queen."

Padmé nodded. "I'll tell her." She turned to go back up the stairs, taking only a few steps before pausing and turning back to Anakin. "Congratulations, Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker." She smiled softly, the gleam in her eyes saying far more than her words.

"Thank you, Senator." He replied, a thoughtful expression on his face. He watched silently as she ascended the steps.

"Anakin." Obi-Wan's voice was oddly sympathetic, beckoning Anakin's attention from his wife's departing figure.

"Yes, mas… Yes, Obi-Wan?" Suddenly all the possibilities of his new station were spinning in his head.

His former master peered up at him, gray-blue eyes intent. "I know it isn't my place to tell you this, but I hope you'll listen." Anakin shifted his weight to his other foot, waiting for the admonishment he expected to receive. This time it wasn't forthcoming.

"You and Senator Amidala share a special bond." It was a statement, not a question. Anakin nodded almost imperceptibly, his wariness palpable. "You would do well to continue to keep that between the two of you for now. Too much is riding on this war, Anakin, and on your part in it. Don't make decisions in haste that will force the Council to act. The Republic needs both of you to do your duty without distractions."

"But-" Anakin started.

"Please, Anakin." He couldn't remember a time when Obi-Wan had seemed more serious. "You aren't my padawan now and your business is your own. I am no longer compelled to act in your best interest and I no longer have to pretend not to notice nuances that are plain as the nose on my face." Anakin knew his own surprise was obvious. Had Obi-Wan always known?

Obi-Wan sighed impatiently. "I won't pretend anymore. Your love for Amidala doesn't change the fact that you are a Jedi Knight, bound by duty to serve a Republic that needs you desperately. There is a reason attachment is forbidden for the Jedi - to keep you from being torn in two by loyalties so strong you can't possibly choose between them. I don't envy you the conflicts you will face."

With that Obi-Wan turned and walked away, leaving Anakin to mull over the revelation that Obi-Wan was not – had never been – as ignorant as he'd assumed.