My thanks to everyone who read and reviewed the last chapter. Sorry about the delay, but hurricanes and writers block slowed this chapter down. I hope you all enjoy and feel it worth the wait.
Vadergirl2006: Thank you so much. Hope you enjoy!
Emerald Green Queen: Sorry to hear that you were ill. Hope you are feeling better. As for your assessment of Anakin's anger management theme, you are absolutely correct. As we continue to venture deeper into this story and the eventual sequel, it will become more focused on what steps he will or won't take to deal with this part of himself. Glad you liked the Jango part and as for Palps, the boat might start rocking in the later half of the story. And yes, I am a big PotC fan so I like to drop hints of it, here and there. Thanks for reading!
Jedi Knight Revan: Thanks for your comments. I will definitely keep them in mind for future chapters. As for Naboo, there seems to be several schools of thought of whether or not it is Naboovian, Nubian or Nabooian. I've decided to stick with Naboovian for consistency sake. Ordinarily, I would have discussed Shmi's abilities in live action, but aside from the chapters getting very long, we won't be seeing her as a major, active character until the 2nd part of the story which will begin in the next chapter (14). It is something to keep in mind though. And yes, I am quite honored you wrote your points on notepad ;). Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoy!
Optimus Primal:Jedi Maximal: Wow, I'm still blushing because of your kind comments. Thank you so very much. This story will end when Anakin turns 14 and I have a sequel in the works that will take things right up to the AotC timeperiod. As for an Ep III. AU, I have thought about it, but I want to see where this series will take me. Thanks again for your compliments and yes, I really enjoy writing cliffe's.
Mizra: I appreciate your comments. As for Zam, she is just Jango's partner in crime. I thought though that they should have a light interaction given the heaviness of their trade.
Fortune Zyne: Thanks so much. I hope enjoy this update!
Piper Halliwell2: Thanks alot. More coming :).
NothingFeelsGood: I am appreciative of your comments. Enjoy!
Jedi Knight Anakin Solo: Thanks a bunch!
Lochar: Thanks alot. Pod race is coming up. Hope you enjoy!
LetNys: As for Leia, I figured that she would have gotten that from somewhere ;). So far Palpy's plans are going well; however, remember what Luke said in RotJ, his overconfidence is his weakness. Keep that in mind as events keep transpiring. Thanks for reading!
Pokey: Glad you like. More of Padme and everyone else to come!
After completing the Angel Queen's landing cycle, Anakin, Padmé and Sabé, along with Artoo, disembarked the ship and headed to the dockmaster's office. It was a tiny room at the end of the hangar where all pilots that docked theirs ships had to make their arrangements to stay. A large Gran was sitting at a single desk in the room, yelling into his comlink. After barking his orders, the Malastarian glared at the small boy and the two teenaged girls curiously. "What do you want?"
The boy looked to Padmé who subtly nodded before stepping forward. "I am Anakin Skywalker and I am racing in the Malastare one hundred. We'd like to rent a docking bay and transport for my pod over to the track."
The three eyed alien contorted his face as he retorted, "I've never even heard of a human able to race pods."
Anakin proudly boasted, "I'm the only one I know of, sir."
The Gran scoffed. "Well, it's your funeral. The docking bay rental is two thousand credits per day with an additional five hundred for transport of your pod to and from the track."
Anakin handed him his creditchip and while the alien was transferring the money he said, "The track has already been opened for test runs until this evening." The boy nodded as the dockmaster returned the disc
As the three youths walked out of the office, they were approached by Obi-Wan who forwent his normal Jedi tunics for a nondescript black outfit. However, he was not alone. To his right was a short, blonde haired woman who wore a deep blue jumpsuit with a simple dark cloak draped around her shoulders. Her stance and mannerisms exuded the confidence that normally surrounded a Jedi. Although Anakin tried to use his limited mind scanning skills with the Force, he was distracted by the large jolt of emotion from his right side—from where Sabé was standing.
Obi-Wan and the woman bowed slightly as he addressed them. "Miladies, Anakin, I'm glad you made it here safely."
The boy nodded silently as his eyes focused on his Master's companion. Noticing that the two women were also exchanging glances with his friend, the Jedi Knight said, "Allow me to introduce an old friend, Siri Tachi."
Padmé extended her hand to introduce herself. "I'm Padmé Naberrie."
Siri curtseyed slightly after accepting it. "Highness."
While the Queen nodded, Sabé extended her hand quickly as she interjected, "And I'm Sabé Orllize, her highness' chief handmaiden and bodyguard."
The diminutive Siri briefly grinned as she gave a sideways glance at her fellow Jedi. Accepting her hand, she said overly cheerfully, "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Anakin kept moving his eyes back and forth from the two young women as he continued to feel their moods radiating through the Force. Also sensing the tension, Obi-Wan turned his focus towards Anakin, "Where were you heading?"
"To the track. The dockmaster said that they are allowing practice runs already."
Hoping to keep Anakin from asking any questions, Padmé asked hurriedly, "Siri, would you care to join us?"
She smirked as she sensed the Queen's intentions. "Actually, I have another commitment that I need to attend to immediately since I am unfamiliar with the city."
Padmé nodded then turned towards her friend. "Sabé, since you have been here before, please show Madam Tachi to where she needs to go."
The chief handmaiden leered momentarily at her Queen, then flashed a disgruntled look towards her beau before hiding her disgust with a broad smile. "Of course, Your Majesty. I would be honored to."
With that, Anakin, Padmé and Obi-Wan headed off towards the track while Sabé and Siri stood rooted to the same place until the others were out of sight. Feeling the bodyguard's discomfort, the Jedi relied on her years of diplomatic training to break the tense silence.
"I was afraid young Anakin would question my presence."
Sabé, remembering Siri came to help Anakin, relaxed as she answered, "He is a curious one, but he's been very focused upon the race." She paused momentarily as she pointed to her right. "I believe we should head to the main stadium. I've pulled holos from the past several years and Jabba the Hutt always sits in the same area."
"After you," Siri offered.
The two women walked without speaking as they carefully avoided being seen by Anakin who was anxiously watching his pod being parked into his pit area. They moved about the top levels of the arena, looking for the best area to take position in case they were called to act after the race. Siri watched the handmaiden carefully as she focused on her presence within the Force.
She knew immediately that while young, this person was strong willed and possessed a sense of duty, rivaling most Jedi. Also, she was deeply passionate and cared greatly for all those who were important to her. It was no wonder Obi-Wan was attracted to her as they seemed to compliment each other well. Still, if he was unwilling to leave the Order, they would never have what they both desperately sought.
"So Sabé, what does your name mean in your native tongue?" Siri asked, making small talk.
"It means the knowing one," she answered without looking at the Jedi.
"You are aware that there can never be anything between myself and Obi-Wan."
"Oh?"
"We are Jedi, after all," Siri pointed out.
Sabé turned to look at her and for a moment, she seemed to detect a look of disappointment on the young woman's face. "But you would have liked to have had more with him?"
Siri smirked. "At one time, perhaps. But, that was when we were children and didn't know any better."
"Are you saying that I don't know any better?"
The young Jedi folded her arms tightly as she cast her gaze towards the track. "No, but you do know that things like love and marriage are forbidden to us Jedi. Even Obi-Wan."
Sabé's face instantly fell as she leaned on a nearby handrail. "I know that all too well."
"Yet, you still pursue him," Siri observed while arching her eyebrow. "If it was ever found out that he had formed an attachment, it could result in his expulsion."
The chief handmaiden bobbed her head slightly, trying to fight back the tears that were forming in her eyes. "I know and I have told him my worries; but we love each other."
"You risk a lot."
"I know."
Siri's face contorted as she answered, "No, I don't think you do. Obi-Wan has been at the temple since he was an infant. Being a Jedi is all he knows and if he was to be expelled, he would live the remainder of his life as a shell of his former self." Sabé was about to argue when the blonde Jedi added, "And while he may have you, it would never be enough."
"I can make him happy," the handmaiden muttered meekly. "We would have our love to get us through it."
"But he will always have the heart of a Jedi. That insatiable need to serve others will always burn bright within him. And nothing, not you or having a family would ever take that place." Siri then placed a hand on Sabé's shoulder as she added, "If you truly love him, you will let him go before it is too late."
The Queen's bodyguard sighed deeply as she focused her eyes on her love as he was helping young Anakin with his racer. What if Siri was right? What would happen if Obi-Wan was dismissed from the Order? Could he ever recover to be the same person that she fell in love with? A tear fell from her eye as these thoughts pierced her heart. She did truly love Obi-Wan; there was no doubt in her mind. But Siri had reaffirmed many of the doubts that she had harbored since the beginning of their relationship. What kind of life could they have with him being a Jedi? She may very well throw away her chance of one day retuning to her village and starting a family. Unwilling to let the woman Jedi see her in a weakened state, Sabé dashed off with hopes that some time alone would help clear her mind.
Padmé and Obi-Wan, along with Artoo stood silent as they anxiously awaited Anakin's to return from his practice lap. After helping him reconnect the steering and main power lines from the engines to the pod, the boy flew out of the pit to get a feel for the track's layout. The Jedi sensed the tremendous nervousness radiating from the girl Queen as her thoughts were focusing on the negatives.
Obi-Wan calmly asked, "How has Anakin been the last several days?"
Padmé sighed deeply. "He's worked nearly non-stop on that pod until I made him get some rest."
"I figured as much." Silence again filled the air, before Obi-Wan asked, "Have the other handmaidens arrived?"
"They have," she answered. "I received a signal from Captain Panaka just as Anakin left." The young Queen turned her attention towards the Jedi as she asked, "Do you honestly believe that we will have to go through with our plan?"
Obi-Wan noticeably frowned, folding his arms as he considered her question. "I don't know, Your Highness. But, the Force is strong with him and in the few training sessions we've had, he has learned much."
"I have no doubts in Anakin's abilities. I just don't trust those slimy Hutts."
"Nor do I, Your Majesty," the Jedi quickly retorted. "But since they do not expect anything so we have the advantage."
Amidala's gaze tore downwards as she muttered, "I hope that's enough."
Before the Jedi Knight could respond, the penetrating screech of twin high powered engines filled the air causing them to turn their heads towards the end of the track. In the distance, a small yellow dot grew larger by the second until a large echo of repulsor thrusters fired, bringing the podracer to a sudden stop. Anakin released an excited yell as he jumped down from the pod.
"Good run, Ani?" Padmé asked.
"You betcha!"
Obi-Wan smirked at his excitement, but thought he should use the moment for a brief lesson. "Remember to keep mindful of the now, my young student. Your level of concentration may determine the outcome of the race."
"I will keep that in mind, Master."
The Jedi Knight nodded in satisfaction. "Very good. Now, let's get you back to our accommodations so you can rest. You have a long day awaiting you." Both Obi-Wan and Padmé were about to walk off when they noticed Anakin stiffen in place. He was about to ask the boy what was wrong when he felt something push by him.
"So Skywalker, you couldn't walk away after the Boonta Eve Classic. You had to come here and make a name for yourself." The Dug taunted in Huttese.
Anger soared within the boy as he gritted his teeth. "My business is my own, Sebulba. I'm surprised you are still in one piece after I beat you."
The Dug ominously stalked towards Anakin who stood his ground until they were eye to eye. "You were lucky once before, slave scum. Methinks you are not going to walk away from this one."
Anakin was about to snap another insult when his jaw noticeably dropped. Beyond his nemesis appeared two large herd animals dragging a silver colored pod—his old racer. "What's the meaning of this, slimeball?"
A vicious grin creased across the Dug's face as he witnessed his rival's shock. "Since you had a hand in destroying my other racer, I thought it only fitting to buy yours."
Feeling the Force surge within him in response to his anger, the boy was about to push Sebulba into the nearby wall when a gentle hand fell on his shoulder. Anakin whirled his head around to see Padmé give him a disapproving, yet worried look. This instantly quelled his rage as he then backed away from the Dug. "We will settle this on the track you piece of bantha fodder."
"I will enjoy seeing you burst into a million pieces, Skywalker. Until tomorrow." Sebulba lightly snickered as he strutted off, followed by his convoy of Twilek slave girls. Anakin stood in place, leering at the alien.
"Let's get out of here, Anakin." Obi-Wan suggested.
Anakin dipped his head slightly before turning his attention towards his small astromech. "Artoo. Stay with the pod and activate your security proximity sensors. If anybody even comes near the pod, comm us immediately."
The diminutive droid whistled in response as the three humans walked away. Obi-Wan then asked Anakin, "What was that all about?"
"That was Sebulba and tomorrow just got that much more difficult."
As they walked out of the stadium and into the city in silence, Padmé gave a subtle nod to two slight figures whose faces were obscured with hoods. They returned the gesture and made their way into the racing area. Obi-Wan flashed a worried look at the young monarch, concerned that they may have to fight their way out of here in the morning.
After all the lights were turned off, Obi-Wan climbed on top of the roof that covered his room's veranda. The day's events had caused him considerable concern for his student. Although Anakin's anger was something that they would have to spend more time working on in the future, his immediate concern was the morning. Fighting against Jabba's many minions would be difficult and could cost the lives of many if the situation got out of control.
He had been so lost in thought that he didn't take notice of Sabé climbing up and sitting next to him until she released a deep breath.
"Something troubling you, love?" The young handmaiden turned away as tears built up in her eyes. Sniffling in reply, Obi-Wan became concerned as he felt a wave of grief cover her spirit. "Sabé, what is it?"
"We can't do this anymore, Obi-Wan."
The Jedi Knight sighed before retorting, "The plan is a solid one. True, it is risky, but I believe it will work."
"I know, but that wasn't what I was talking about," she muttered as she rubbed her nose.
"Then what…"
Sabé turned to look at him. At that moment, Obi-Wan noticed the stream of tears that had skimmed down both sides of her narrow face. "Never forget that I love you and I will always care about you."
The Jedi stiffened as the realization of what she was saying registered. "What did I do to push you away?"
"Nothing. You did nothing," the young woman answered. "I've been thinking a lot about what could happen to you if our relationship was ever discovered and I couldn't bear to see you expelled from the Order because of me."
Obi-Wan nervously grabbed hold of her petite hand and held it firmly in his. "I thought we had already been through this. It is my choice to make and I will accept the consequences of my actions."
"But have you ever given any thought to what would happen after that?"
The Jedi looked at her curiously as he asked, "What do you mean?"
Sabé took a deep breath then released it slowly before she responded. "You've spent your whole life as a Jedi. It's all you know and it is your dream to be a Master like Qui-Gon was." She affectionately clenched his hand as she continued, "And I could not live with being the reason that that dream didn't come true."
Obi-Wan argued, "But I don't care about that. All I am concerned with is you. True, that was my dream, but since I've met you, things have changed."
"But would you truly be happy being an ordinary man? Going to work and raising children is not the same as traveling through the stars and serving the Republic." Sabé stared silently for several moments while she collected her thoughts. "While you can say that you don't care about that now, how will you feel in few years? Not even you can make that assurance."
The Jedi released her hand and wrapped his around his knees. "You're right, Sabé. I cannot promise that which I do not know. All I can guarantee is my love for you."
Sabé smiled sadly and then pulled her beau over for a kiss. "I'm sorry, my beloved, but I won't let you throw away everything for me."
Before Obi-Wan could protest, the young handmaiden jumped down from the roof and ran inside the room. The young man brushed off a tear from his eye, uncertain of what just occurred. Perhaps once they were all safely back on Naboo, there would be time to discuss this further. For now, he would concentrate on the task at hand since Anakin's freedom could very well depend on it.
It was a clear, sunny day as the central stadium that surrounded the starting line for the Malastare one-hundred was filled to capacity. Beings had trekked from all the corners of the galaxy in order to witness one of the grandest races of the circuit. Anakin had awakened early and joined Obi-Wan for some much needed meditation. After they finished, the boy ate something quickly and was about to leave for the track when knocked on Padmé's door. She greeting him wearing a simple grey and blue outfit and allowed him into her room. The two remained quiet for several moments before the boy finally spoke.
"I just wanted to thank you for everything…in case."
Padmé's eyes widened with worry as she sat next to her friend. "Don't say that. I just know that you are going to win."
The sandy haired boy briefly smiled. "I appreciate your faith, but all the same, I just want you to know that you have made a real difference in my life. These past few months have been like a dream come true."
The Naboovian monarch offered him a sad smile as she placed her arm around the small boy. "No good-byes. Just promise me that you'll be careful."
"I will as long as you promise me something."
"What?" Padmé asked curiously.
"If something happens to me, please do whatever you can to get my mother out of Jabba's palace. I have built a special emitter into Artoo's frame that will jam any destruct signal if you need to get her out by force."
Padmé squeezed his hand gently as she said, "I promise." Overtaken with emotion, she leaned over and planted a kiss on Anakin's forehead. "Come back safely, Ani. Please."
Anakin smirked as he rose to his feet. Before leaving the room, he turned around to face her. "I will always find my way back to you." With that he was gone to face his destiny, whatever that may be. Meanwhile, Padmé, who was blinking back tears pulled out her comlink and quickly dialed into the private frequency.
"Yes, Your Majesty?" Eirtaé answered
"Is everything ready?"
"We are all set here."
"Good. Sabé, Obi-Wan and I will arrive at the stadium soon. Please inform the others and remind them that nobody acts unless Master Kenobi or I give the signal."
"Understood, Your Highness."
Sebulba grinned as he watched his pit droids install the hidden weapon under his racer. Firing a blaster at the unsuspecting child would be too obvious and would invoke the anger of Jabba upon his head. So after considerable thought, the Dug purchased a mini-ion cannon from one of his Black Sun connections. Nevertheless, he had to wait until the Malastarian race officials had completed their inspection of his craft for illegal objects, such of this.
The Dug mused that if he hit Anakin's pod with an ion charge, it would lock his engines, causing the boy's hydraulics to shut down. If he was a capable pilot, he should be able to steer the disabled pod safely off the track and would be out of the race for good. However, if the human lost control, he would surely crash into one of the guard rails at the edge of the track. To any onlooker, it should appear as if he suffered a systems failure and could not recover. In either case, Sebulba will have fulfilled his duty to Jabba thus securing for himself enough support to last for years. On top of that, being responsible for little Skywalker's demise would be a dream come true.
Upon reaching his pod, Anakin quickly went through all the startup protocols to make sure his engines and systems were still acting normally. From his last experience on Tatooine, he expected Sebulba to attempt to sabotage this racer as well. Yet, his checks all came out positively and Artoo had not recorded anything coming within several meters of the pod. While Anakin was completing his final preparations, Obi-Wan walked up quietly to the side of his pod and watched him intently.
"How do you feel, Ani?"
"Surprisingly calm, Master. I feel the Force encircling me."
"Good," the Jedi replied. "Remember to let go and the Force will flow freely through you."
"I will, Master," Anakin responded softly.
Obi-Wan sighed as he placed a hand of comfort on the boy's shoulder. "Sorry about all the lectures. I know you will do well."
"It's alright. It does help."
Their moment was interrupted by the announcement for all racers to have their crews move them towards the starting line.
"May the Force be with you, Anakin."
"And with you, Master."
Anakin immediately deactivated his engines and jumped out of his pod while his crew moved his racer into position. As he followed it out, the former slave turned around to see a nod of reassurance from his Master and a smile of confidence from Padmé. What surprised him was that neither Sabé nor Obi-Wan's friend Siri were sitting in the pit. Perhaps they decided to get better seats so they could see the race's progress on the holomonitors that were positioned throughout the stadium.
Returning his concentration to the present, the boy observed that besides Sebulba, several of the other racers he had defeated back on Tatooine were taking their positions. Most notable was Ben Quadinaros with his never functional quad engine system, Ody Mandrell with his experimental Exelbrok podracer, Aldar Beedo with his flat-twin turbojet pod racer and the Malastarian champion Mawhonic, who lost his last pod at Sebulba's hands. Anakin knew all too well that the Gran would be looking for retribution, especially here.
The boy quickly climbed back into his pod and activated his different display monitors. He then reached down near his feet to put on his new helmet. Anakin closed his eyes briefly, reaching into the Force for guidance. As he immersed himself he heard the soft, gentle voice of Qui-Gon Jinn speaking directly to him.
The Force will be with you, Anakin. Always.
As he opened his eyes, a peaceful calm filled him as he noticed that all the other racers had started their engines. Quickly, the boy flipped on the engine activator switches which responded with a resounding shudder as both jets fired simultaneously. Anakin afforded himself a brief look into the stands and was horrified when he saw his mother was chained in front of Jabba.
Thankfully, the slimy Hutt didn't dress her like one of his Twilek dancers. The boy mused briefly.
Next to her flapped the blue Toydarian Watto and to the far right was a mostly incomplete droid that looked remarkably like…
"Threepio," he muttered to himself.
Trying to maintain the serenity that had filled him moments prior, he focused on the image of winning the race and his mother returning to Naboo with him and Padmé to live forever.
'Gentleman! Stand by for the count down!'
Electronic beeps echoed throughout the stadium until it reached the third chime. At the fourth, a higher pitched chime signaled the start of the race. With the Force as his ally, Anakin anticipated the starting pulse and with a quick jerk forward on the pod's throttle control, his pod exploded out of the starting gate. Unlike the Boonta Eva, Skywalker rocketed into a quick lead before the other racers could even react. The track leading out of the stadium curved hard right and went through the modern town with several hard bends before it stretched out into the mountain regions. Anakin had to pull back on the throttle in order to take the turns without losing control.
The wind screeched as he maneuvered his pod down the center of the track which straightened between several large skyscrapers. He quickly glanced down at his monitors which showed a panoramic view of the area immediately behind him. It was of no surprise that Sebulba was nearby, although Mawhonic was seriously challenging for the second position. Anakin gripped his directional stick tightly as another sharp turn emerged before him.
One of the major challenges of this course was its length, as well as the numerous treacherous curves. It was ten times the distance of the Boonta Eve Classic and did not have the same amount of straight-aways, thus making it critical that he didn't fall behind. Anticipating the major straight path coming around the last bend in the city, the boy fired both boosters, shoving him back into his seat as the pod hurdled into near out-of-control speeds. Nevertheless, Anakin remained steady as he closed his eyes and submerged his conscious self into the Force.
Sebulba was amazed at the quick take off by young Skywalker. Indeed, he had to push his pod's twin engines much harder than he liked just to maintain pace. Although his primary focus was set on the former slave, he had other problems. Both Mawhonic and Ody Mandrell were hot on his trail and they were not falling back as they normally did. Even some of his usual tricks, such as flashing his vents had been anticipated as they tried to squeeze him off the track. The Dug would, for the first time in many years, have to rely purely on his skills as a racer in order to maintain his position. At least for the moment.
After Anakin's speedy departure, Padmé and Obi-Wan made their way to the rear of the pit in order to monitor their friend's progress. So far he had built a substantial lead; but, a group of several racers were within a few kilometers behind him, jockeying for position in order to challenge him for the lead. While Obi-Wan concentrated his thoughts into the Force to help Anakin, Padmé immediately reached for her comlink.
"Sabé?"
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
"What is your status?"
"I, along with Jedi Tachi have found positions immediately adjacent to the Hutt's luxury box. We have Anakin's mother in sight and are ready for your orders."
"Very good." Padmé then switched frequencies.
"Your Highness?" the gruff voice of Hugh Panaka dutifully answered.
"What is your team's position, Captain?"
"Handmaidens Saché and Rabé are at the main gate ready to give cover fire in case you need to make a quick escape. Meanwhile, Yané is back at Protector Skywalker's ship while myself and Eirtaé are immediately above your pit in the stands, ready to assist you."
"Excellent. Keep your eyes open. I don't think anything will happen until the third circuit, but stay ready."
Upon reaching the mountainous regions, Anakin's pod dipped down as the track went through and under one of Malastare's tallest mountains. The race course considerably narrowed at this point, causing the boy to guide his racer towards the center. The Force whispered to him, making him aware that his opponents had slowed their engines as they carefully maneuvered through the tight corridor. Sensing that he too should reduce speed, Anakin pulled back on the throttle, making the pod easier to control. From his peripheral vision, he observed the brownish blur of the mountain's rock rushing past him while he continued down the course.
Unlike many previous races, Ben Quadinaros decided to start this one with only two of his four engines operating. If he could get into a good position, he could then activate his dormant power plants and possibly dart past his unsuspecting opponents. The small Toong had been the shame of the pod racing circuit for years with his quad system that never worked properly. Despite his prior misfortune, for the first time in several races, his pod started at the chime and was being competitive. Indeed, he was quickly approaching the lead group that was behind the Skywalker boy who were fighting each other for second place. If he could maintain his spot until the third circuit, he could put his plans into effect.
Ody Mandrell clenched his teeth when his pod struck the side of Sebulba's as they entered the underground portion of the race. Having competed on this course several times before, the Er'kit knew about the upcoming constriction of the track. Rapidly, he shifted down on his throttle to cut off the Dug. Reacting within time, Sebulba reversed thrust just enough, which allowed Mandrell to cut by and pass him. He slammed his fist angrily against the inside of pod as he fell into third place. Although stopping Skywalker was just as important as winning this race, Sebulba was not about to let some has been get the drop on him.
The Dug keyed in a sequence near his main controls that activated the ion cannon from underneath his racer. While moving his pod racer to within centimeters of his opponent's, the veteran racer activated the targeting computer to lock onto Mandrell's exhaust ports. All that was required was to wait until the track pulled upwards and around the mountain. He knew that area of the track did not have cameras and he had planned to use that dead spot to bring down that slave scum. But, first things first.
Sebulba eased back on his throttle, creating some space between him and the second place craft. As the pods traveled up and out of the underground portion of the track, the prevailing winds shifted, causing every pilot to swing their controls abruptly to compensate. At that same moment, the Dug's targeting computer ringed out as it had acquired its objective. Using his free hand, he tapped a control hidden underneath his console. The sleek craft shuddered as a blue pulse was released. Ody Mandrell was in the process of throttling down since the next straightaway was rapidly approaching when blue sparks of electricity danced across his control panel. The blue alien attempted to cut off power to both his engines; still, the flickers traveled the length of his pod into his main power coupling. He never knew what truly happened as his racer spun out of control and slammed into the side of the mountain, exploding upon impact.
Anakin turned his head around as he felt the racer's death through the Force. At that moment, he knew that Sebulba was responsible, causing him to push his engines even faster in an effort to pull further away. The boy felt a brief tremor in the Force which quickly dissipated as he rounded the sharp bend that led into the stadium where he completed the first circuit.
One down, two to go.
The former slave could barely hear the audience's gleeful ovation. He tried to turn his head to see Padmé; but alas, he was moving too quickly. That didn't mean though that he could not feel her concern, as well as her profound belief in his abilities. As he felt her warmth reaching out to him, the Force surged about him as he engaged the pod's boosters, propelling him to even greater speeds he had never before risked. There was simply too much on the line for him to lose.
The large, slug-like Jabba the Hutt squirmed uncomfortably as he witnessed young Skywalker build an even greater lead as he completed his first lap. He was becoming especially agitated that his hired thug Sebulba, had only been successful in removing a racer that meant absolutely nothing. If the Dug could not fulfill his task, then he would have to take matters into his own hands. He motioned to Fortuna who immediately bowed before his master.
"Bring me the Bounty huntress." The large Hutt bellowed in Huttese.
"Right away, Your Magnificence."
Shmi Skywalker briefly turned her head towards the large Hutt. Although happy with her son's progress, a deep feeling of foreboding filled her as she knew that the notorious gangster was up to no good. Worst of all, her Anakin was probably the object of his ire.
Please Ani hurry!
Although experiencing one of the best first laps of his career, Ben Quadinaros was still in sixth place and the other large pack of racers were closing quickly upon his position. The window of opportunity was closing for him if he was even going to challenge the Skywalker boy for first place. He would have to engage his other two engines as soon as he came out of the hard turns of the town portion of the track. If successful, Ben would grab the lead before heading into the narrow underground pass and possibly win the race.
The small Toong looked at his controls and then hovered his free hand in hesitation over his secondary throttle. He had so many failures in the past; he almost wanted to just maintain his position so he could place. This would improve his abysmal reputation and move him up the yearly leader board. However, visions of glory and wealth overcame his better judgment as he slammed his hand down on the two dormant engine initiator buttons. Quadinaros' pod shimmied as the large engines rumbled to life. Seconds later, his panel display indicated that the newly activated power plants were online and ready to be engaged, Ben pushed his secondary throttle to maximum output, propelling him with blinding speed down the straightaway and past the pack.
The Toong's heart was aflutter when he watched Sebulba's sleek racer disappear behind him as he rapidly closed the gap to Skywalker's pod. Ben briefly allowed himself quick glances to his side so he could see the landscape blur from his vision. While curious to test if the maneuverability of his racer had remained constant, despite the increase in velocity, better judgment came over him as he guessed that any slight move could cause him to barrel out of control.
Anakin nearly jumped out of his seat when he heard the loud sonic boom of two giant engines being brought to full power. He swiftly glanced down towards his rearview display to see the red, quad-engine racer of Ben Quadinaros streak past the pack and move steadily closer towards his position. Anakin's engine indicator readout showed that his engines were already operating at one-hundred and twenty five percent output and his booster required another fifty seconds to recharge. If he could not continue to accelerate, the alien would pass him by in a matter of minutes.
Relying on his experience, as well as watching numerous pod races, Anakin did the only thing he could. He positioned his pod near the middle of the track, hoping that he could hold the lead until he got to the underground passage that was too narrow for two racers to fly side by side in. When he was only a few kilometers away from the mountain entrance, Anakin felt a surge of warning in the Force, urging him to act. Without conscious thought, the boy dutifully obeyed, moving his pod to the right side of the track while pulling up on his throttle.
At that same moment, Quadinaros had not anticipated the boy's shift in position, causing him to overcompensate with his steering stick, which hurdled him dangerously off the track and towards the mountain's edge. Ben furiously tried to regain control of his pod, but as it inverted; his duel power couplings lost their connection, resulting in complete engine failure. The small alien had barely been able to right himself when his craft smashed into the ground causing his podracer to break apart upon impact. The pursuing racers reduced speed to avoid the flying fragments. Meanwhile, Anakin increased his pod's power back to full, propelling him beyond the wreck and into the narrowest part of the track with an even greater lead.
Sabé and Siri sat silently, both engrossed with watching Anakin's progress until the young Jedi felt a sudden stir in the Force. She cast her eyes towards Jabba's private box where she spotted a familiar figure.
"Aurra Sing," Siri muttered.
"Know her?" the handmaiden asked with concern.
The blond haired woman nodded once. "She was once a Jedi, but was expelled for several, shall we say, indiscretions. Now, she's made a career in accepting high risk bounties."
Sabé smirked. "Sounds like she doesn't have much love for the Jedi."
Siri noticeably frowned. "No, she doesn't."
'I wonder what Jabba wants with her?"
The Jedi shrugged. "I don't know, but she is quite adept with a blaster rifle."
"I'd better inform Her Majesty then," the handmaiden remarked as she pulled out her comlink.
"Your Highness!"
"Yes, Sabé."
"Jedi Tachi and I have observed Jabba summoning a former Jedi, turned bounty huntress who she said is a good long range shooter."
Sabé heard Padmé sigh deeply before she answered. "The Hutt may be getting ready to make his move. Please ask Knight Tachi to follow the bounty hunter while you maintain your position."
"Understood, Your Majesty. Sabé out."
Sebulba blinked his eyes rapidly as Quadinaros' remains flew past him. When he looked back up, the Dug unconsciously flinched as he no longer saw the exhaust trails of Skywalker's pod. Worried that the boy had gotten even farther out front, he shifted his throttle back to full power, slamming him back into his seat as the pod darted out in front of the pack. Yet, to his dismay Mawhonic was still on his trail. The seasoned racer wickedly smirked as he flashed his exhaust at the unsuspecting Gran. Mawhonic though, had anticipated the sly maneuver by veering to his right and with a light boost to his engine power, moved nearly side to side with the Dug.
In spite of this, the momentary tie was broken when the Gran had to withdraw directly behind Sebulba as they entered the underground portion of the track. Sebulba was becoming increasingly tense. They were nearing the beginning of the third circuit and his increase in speed did not bring him much closer to Skywalker. He was about to make a quick move to the center when he clenched his teeth as his pod shuddered from a rear end collision. The Dug turned his head to see Mawhonic smirking as he was preparing to ram him again.
Pulling back on his controls, Sebulba moved to the side, baiting the pursuing Gran to cut him off. At that instant, the track widened as they were streaking towards the exit. Mawhonic saw his chance and engaged his boosters without thought. Sebulba throttled back just enough to fool his opponent into believing that he was moving faster than he really was. As predicted, the Gran's pod sailed past his, which Sebulba then rammed into the side of his rival's.
Mawhonic attempted to increase power to his engines and readied himself to ram the Dug in retaliation. However, as he took his eye stalks off the track, he didn't notice that a protruding piece of rock from the mountain was in his path until it was too late. A rattling explosion echoed through the underground track as the Gran's pod fatally crashed, launching debris into the path of the oncoming racers. Many were able to miss the fiery pieces, but some took enough damage, causing them to limp their ailing pods towards the outside of the track.
Anakin allowed a small smile to crease his lips as he passed the starting barrier for the beginning of the third and final circuit. He had built a large enough lead that he eased slightly back on his throttle, unwilling to take any chances during this last lap. Visions of being home on Naboo with his mother, free and happy filled his thoughts as he couldn't wait to cross the finish line. It had been too easy…that is until he felt a large tremor of warning in the Force rousing him from his daydream.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a blue ball of energy strike the edge of a nearby building causing its lights to flicker momentarily. Anakin glanced down towards his rear monitors to see that Sebulba had caught up to him and was apparently firing some form of energy weapon. Instinctually, the boy triggered his boosters to try to create some separation from his attacker. However, he was now risking a collision since he had just entered the curviest portion of the track.
The Dug slammed his fist down in frustration as he muttered several unsavory Huttese curses. Missing the Skywalker boy was bad enough, but what also frustrated him was it would take the weapon a minute or two to recharge before he could launch another shot. Sebulba quickly activated his engine boosters which moved him within a few meters behind his opponent. He eagerly watched his targeting display as it attempted to lock onto Skywalker's engines. Finally, after having dispatched his other rivals, it was time to do what he was called for. A loud beep indicated that his cannon was ready to fire and he anxiously pressed his hidden trigger.
Another screaming warning through the Force urged Anakin to roll his pod in midair. This maneuver just barely allowed him to escape being hit by the ionic pulse. The boy's heart began to pound furiously as he knew with the underground passage coming up within minutes; he would not be able to evade the next shot. The boy closed his eyes, frantically trying to reach into the living Force for help. He sighed in frustration as his eyes shot open, unable to reestablish his earlier serenity.
Master Qui-Gon, sir, I could really use your help now.
Sebulba sneered as he knew that his latest shot was much closer. Still, he was not angered as he realized that the underground pathway was coming and Skywalker would not have the room to dodge the next shot. All that would be required of him was to be ready so that he could avoid the potential fallout from the inevitable explosion. The Dug looked impatiently at his Ion charge meter. In one minute, that slave scum would be dead and he would be, once again, the galaxy's podracing grand champion.
Qui-Gon, please help me!
Anakin, you must let yourself go and trust in the living Force.
But I am afraid.
The Force is with you. Call out and she shall listen.
Time appeared to slow to a crawl as Anakin opened his eyes. His pod was moving what seemed only slightly, and as he looked about, everything else was moving just as lethargically. He dreaded blinking his eyelids for fear that it would once again speed up. Anakin glanced at his rearward monitors and nearly gasped as he saw another ball of blue swirling energy spiraling towards him. For a brief moment, he felt as if he was connected to every living thing in the universe: everyone's anxieties, joys, hopes and fears were all penetrating his essence all at once.
Taking his hand off the throttle, Anakin reached into a small compartment and withdrew his lightsaber. No longer in control of his actions, he carefully maneuvered his racer to the left as he activated his weapon with his right hand. In what seemed liked minutes, but in reality was only milliseconds, the blue pulse was upon him and with a flick of his emerald green lasersword they collided sending a numbing vibration down his arm, causing him to drop his weapon into the pod. Instead of absorbing the energy, Anakin's lightsaber had redirected it back towards his unsuspecting opponent. The next thing the boy realized was time had returned to how he normally perceived it.
Sebulba screamed as his ion charge hit both his engines, as well as the main power coupling simultaneously, causing his racer to seize violently. He wildly tried to shift about his controls to keep him on the center of the track; however, despite experiencing several near catastrophic engine failures prior, the Dug lost complete control of his racer which collided at the entrance of the mountainous portion of the track. He died on impact. Meanwhile, Jabba angrily slapped Threepio off the dais and gave Bib Fortuna the nod to proceed with their backup plan.
The tall, angular Aurra Sing smirked as she placed her comlink back in her utility belt. After being requested by the mighty Hutt to do a job, she positioned herself near the top of the stadium, closest to the finish line. While not normally accustomed to attacking children, the bounty huntress could hardly refuse Jabba's generous offer of half a million credits. This task though would not be easy. Although she was quite adept at using her high powered blaster rife to hit objects over five-hundred meters away, the Hutt ordered her not to kill the Skywalker boy, but just disable his pod. There in lies the problem. Pod racers moved extremely fast and despite having some Jedi training, the possibility of shooting something vital was all too great. She would have to be cautious, lest she draw the ire of the disreputable gangster.
The white faced woman took aim as the pod carrying her mark was approaching. Aurra briefly attempted to touch the Force, to seek its endless power, but was abruptly snapped out of her trance when she felt its resistance to her will. Ignoring her instincts over this event, she then pressed two protruding buttons on her targeting scope as she pointed the rifle. A surge of adrenaline coursed through her veins while the image of the Skywalker boy's pod moved into range. Taking a deep breath, the bounty huntress gently placed her finger over the trigger. The targeting scope beeped as it locked on to the right engine's fuel cell.
Poised to fire, Aurra disengaged the weapon's safety and as she released her breath, she calmly squeezed the trigger. But, instead of hearing the high pitched screech of her weapon discharging, the all too familiar snap-hiss of an ignited lightsaber striking dangerously near her echoed in her ears and her hands suddenly felt as if they were on fire. When she turned to her right, she saw the emerald green blade of Siri Tachi pointed directly at her throat. After Sing glanced at the fragments of her charred rifle scattered on the ground, she refocused her attention to the postured Jedi.
"Ah, Siri. It's been a long time."
The blonde haired Jedi Knight leered at her briefly. "How far you've fallen, Aurra. Trying to kill a boy for a few credits."
"Well, unlike you noble Jedi, a girl has to take the jobs she can get."
Siri extinguished her weapon and then clipped it to her belt. "Get out of here before I decide to beat up on you like I did when we were younglings."
Aura winced as she looked down to the blaster she had holstered on her thigh. Having been previously on the other side of the infamous Siri Tachi's tirades as a Jedi youth, she had no inclination to find out what her nemesis would do to her, especially now she was a fully trained Knight. Aurra then backed away, never removing her piercing gaze from the vigilant Siri. "We will meet again, Tachi and I promise that next time, the odds will be more to my liking."
"I can hardly wait." Siri snapped as the tall bounty huntress suddenly turned about and ran off.
The audience erupted into an ear piercing roar as Anakin's pod entered the stadium and crossed the finish line. The boy pumped a triumphant fist into the air as slowed his pod down. His heart swelled with pride and jubilance as he realized what he had done. He had saved his mother and they were going home to Naboo. It only took a few moments to bring his racer about to his pit where an ecstatic Obi-Wan ran over to pull him out of his pod with Padmé closely behind.
After being returned to his feet, the sandy haired boy was immediately enveloped in a crushing embrace by the girl Queen. Anakin grinned as he didn't know which made him happier—winning the race or being so close to Padmé. As they released, she clasped his hand with her own as she said, "Let's go get your mother."
As they walked hand in hand towards the dais that Jabba was resting upon, followed closely behind by Obi-Wan, the boy locked glances with his mother who appeared relieved that the race was over. The Hutt's private guards back away from them as they approached the giant slug. He studied Anakin briefly before acknowledging his presence.
"As much as it pains me to say it, well done Skywalker. Well done, indeed."
Anakin nodded. "I humbly thank you, Your Exalted one."
"I don't suppose you wish to go double or nothing?"
The boy released a small grin briefly before becoming solemn once again. "I don't think so."
Jabba chuckled as he reached over the ruffle the boy's hair. "Very well." He then turned to Watto and said, "Toydarian, release Shmi Skywalker and give the boy her transmitter."
The blue winged alien obeyed, cutting the woman's chains loose and then brought her before the large Hutt. Shmi continued to rub her wrists as she gave a relieved smile to her son and his companions. After Watto handed Anakin her transmitter, he then focused his attention back to Jabba. "What about my money for her? I'm not just going to give her away to the boy."
"No, of course you're not," Jabba retorted. "You are going to take her place in my Palace until you work off your debt to me. The boy won her, fair and square."
As Jabba clapped his hands loudly, Bib Fortuna motioned to two nearby Gamorreans who grabbed the shocked Toydarian and began to drag him off. Anakin actually felt sorry for his former Master as he saw the all too familiar look of fear fill the alien's face. He had witnessed it in his own features, as well as on his mother's face too many times when events were spiraling out of their control. Feeling a sudden urge in the Force to act, the boy said, "Stop. I will pay what Watto owes you."
Jabba looked at the small boy in confusion. "Why would you want to help this scum? After everything he has done to you and your mother, wouldn't you wish for him to suffer?"
Anakin shifted his gaze from Watto over to his now smiling mother and then to where both Padmé and Obi-Wan were standing. "Despite whatever anger I might feel, no being deserves to be enslaved."
The large Hutt shifted his round eyes briefly about the group before returning them to Anakin. "Give me ten thousand credits right now and we'll call it even."
The boy reached into his tunic and pulled out his creditchip which Bib Fortuna took eagerly. After verifying the amount, the Twilek gave a nod in Jabba's direction as he returned the disc back to Anakin.
"Are we finished?" Anakin asked eagerly.
"One more thing," Jabba said. "Droid! Come here."
Threepio wobbled his way back up to the dais and gave a polite bow as he said, "How can I be of service to you, Mighty Jabba?"
Ignoring his request, the Hutt said to Anakin, "Take your mothers protocol droid with you or else I will have him disintegrated…he talks too much."
Anakin nodded as he said, "C'mon, Threepio."
The droid nearly hopped where he stood. "My goodness, the Maker! I knew you would come back, I just knew it."
Anakin and the others bowed as they left the disreputable gangster's presence. When he and his minions left, the group noticeably sighed in relief when Anakin ran over to his mother's outstretched arms.
"Mom!"
"Ani! I can't believe you did it!"
The boy smiled as he continued to hold on to his mother for dear life. For the first time in both their lives, they were free. They no longer had to serve an unforgiving master or worry that they would be separated. Their tender moment would have continued; but, the blue Toydarian was hovering next to them with an astonished look.
"I don't know what to say, little Ani."
The boy released his mother to turn towards the alien. "You don't have to say anything, Watto. Just promise that you will never own another slave for as long as you live."
"But Ani," Watto was about to protest when he looked up to see the disapproving stares of the others. He sighed deeply as he continued, "I promise and…thank you. If you ever go back to Tatooine, I will always give you a good deal on whatever I've got."
Anakin gave him a curt nod in acknowledgement before the Toydarian flew away.
Shmi smiled proudly as she reached down to give her son another warm embrace. When they slightly withdrew, the boy blinked his eyes several times as he swore that he saw Master Qui-Gon standing behind them, smiling. Shaking his head, attributing what he saw to all the excitement, Anakin smiled at his mother while Padmé and Obi-Wan drew closer. After sharing looks of appreciation, the boy returned his gaze towards his mother as he said, "Let's go home."
It was night time on the city-planet of Coruscant when a small spacecraft glided into the landing bay of a dark building. It was the only one of its kind that sat amidst the ruined industrial plants that had been abandoned centuries ago. This region had been forgotten by most of the planet's citizens, except for one. The ship landed in the hidden docking bay and from its entrance emerged the darkly dressed figure of Count Dooku. He walked calmly down the gangplank to join the patiently waiting Darth Sidious who donned the black hooded cloak to obscure his features.
"Welcome home, Lord Tyranus."
Dooku bowed humbly as he answered, "Master Sidious."
The Dark Lord motioned for the fallen Jedi to join him as they walked towards the rear of the hangar. "Has everything been accomplished?"
"Yes, Milord. Jango Fett has been delivered to Geonosis and I have erased any mention of Kamino from the Jedi Archives, which will make it difficult for them to find if our rouse is ever discovered."
Sidious sneered. "You were not detected?"
"No, my Master."
"Excellent," Palpatine remarked. "Your powers within the Darkside have grown quickly. I am pleased with your progress."
"I thank you, Milord."
A momentary silence filled the room before the Sith Master spoke again. "And now I sense that you are ready to continue with your training using your new dark powers."
"By your leave, my Master. However..."
"Yes?"
Dooku straightened himself as Darth Sidious stopped walking to look at him. "Is there not more that is required in order to see our plans set in motion."
The Sith shook his head. "No. Now we shall wait in the shadows and prepare. The Jedi must believe that I have disappeared due to the loss of my former apprentice, which will lull them into a false sense of security. But that will take time and we must be careful with our powers because they may sense our presence."
"Surely they will be too afraid to stand against us, Milord?"
Sidious began to walk again, but did not answer the Count immediately. "For the moment, my friend, we are not in a position to confront the Jedi. But rest assured, their days are numbered."
"As you wish, my Master."
Noticing the disappointment on his apprentice's face, the Sith Lord added, "Do not fret, Lord Tyranus. This has been the way of the Sith for a millennia. We will wait and continue grow in power. When the right moment comes, then we will strike swiftly with our combined strength and we shall rule the galaxy."
Dooku nodded silently as he contemplated the Master's words. Indeed, he had no trouble with patience. It was a virtue that was instilled in him by his Jedi Master and something he taught to his many students. He knew there was still much to learn before he could mold the dark powers for his own purposes. For the meantime, he would play the part of the obedient servant so that he could incorporate everything the Dark Lord had to teach. Then one day he too would strike, and set right everything in his own image, the way things ought to be.
A/N: And so ends part I of our story. Part II, which is the next chapter, will begin three years later. My thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed. Look forward to many changes, as well as a few surprises.
