Star Wars: Arda Unleashed

by Lord Exar Kun

After the Arda Campaign ended in victory for the Republic and their local allies, the galaxy's eyes returned to the wider Clone Wars. However, the Dark Lord Sauron has yet to be vanquished. Now he has come to the wider galaxy free from the binds of Arda, and is ready to be unleashed upon the stars. As the Chosen One's fate, the Republic's and the Jedi Order's remains to be seen.

10. Aftermath and Reunion

Chapter 10

Aftermath and Reunion

As the Jedi Knight, Anakin Skywalker took again to the skies aboard a Republic gunship, alongside him stood his men and an unconscious Sith Lord. The battle above continued to rage. The forces under Grievous were not beaten, and droids could hardly get demoralized. The General followed through on his dictates and several thousand unneeded fighters and bombers dove through the atmosphere. Many of them did not in fact reach the skies of Coruscant. Streaking as scorched pillars of metal they slammed into looming battered remnants of the Home Fleet. Several venators and many acclamators were torn to shreds. Many of them being on their last legs. Their decay into the atmosphere was assured and these falling giants erupted in flame and billowing smoke crashing as thunder to the metal labyrinth beneath. Followed quickly thereafter by the vultures and hyenas that screamed as they fell.

The hyenas let fall their payloads and the bombs that littered the surface extinguished many hundreds of lives. They crashed through layer upon layer of metal. Tearing down chunks of the upper most disc that held the great cities of Coruscant upward. Then they careened through walls and floors. Hunkering families too scared to leave their homes and having managed through the days of battle were in instants incinerated and torn apart as a vulture or hyena's wail echoed in their ears in the last seconds. Vultures tore down and bore themselves into the deeper level bunkers that lined all of Coruscant. They took the brunt, but even these domes of unseen defense were not left unscathed. This, as many more fighters and bombers deemed unneeded to the Separatist swarm waylaid and decimated themselves against troop positions. AA cannons were torn apart and clones sent flying to their deaths by a wing of death bringing metal monsters.

Many centers in the government sector were battered by the strays. Pillars of the Republic were thrashed and symbols of the Republic's pride and strength were toppled by the percussive assault of metal slamming into metal. The explosions that rained down and out drowned out nearly all sounds across the surface of the capitol. This blatant and coordinated 'suicide' run conducted by order of General Grievous overshadowing those that came before. All as the battle continued to rage ever still.

With the Chancellor retaken and matters made clear to the General, Confederate warships were ordered into tighter pockets and to coordinate encirclement operations. Republic forces continued to engage as reinforcements streamed in. However, the tighter formations began to bare fruit. The Home Fleet took the brunt of this renewed operation. Grievous converged the nearest units to the lower atmosphere into semi-suicidal operations. Many battered and beaten munificents and recusants or the stray providence bore themselves against Republic warships and ignited them in turbolaser fire. If all else failed then they allowed themselves to conduct impacts and tore themselves and their enemies apart. Allowing the great heaps to fall through the atmosphere to the world below. Many thousands more dying every second and by the ceaseless impacts. The collateral was skyrocketing across a world so utterly packed with life as to make collateral an inevitability.

The battle showed no end, and though their numerical advantage was on the rise the Republic was in for a fight against an enemy still numbering in the thousands. Many of the General's ships had little to no marks and many were looming behind their forward packs as reserves. The ground situation, in kind, showed little in the way of relenting. Several million units were in operation in scattered an array around all ground sectors. From the Works to the Government sectors and beginning to push outwards as Grievous loosed them to slaughter as need be. Without recourse and without a semblance of remorse. Tank and artillery fire exploded across residential suites tossing them as hail below. Troopers were holding their lines but reinforcements were less likely than those intended for the fleet. They could spare no men in the fight on the ground and resist the naval forces as well. As such, it became clear to the Supreme Chancellor that; with his own safe return to the capitol, hostilities needed to come to as swift an end as possible. Lest more unnecessary lives were lost in this multi-day debacle.

As Anakin returned to the bunker where his Master and the Chancellor awaited, an Executive Order was given out by the Supreme Chancellor. Broadcasting not only his safe return to civilian and combatant alike, but also the immediate withdrawal of any standing gravity well generators across the system. Grievous was not to be engaged or pursued, and the fleet was to stand down upon clear indication of enemy withdrawal. The Chancellor overrode all military office as its Commander in Chief. Therefore, within moments of his order all units across the system shut down their gravity well generators. Be they interdictor ships, station wells, or mobile generators units.

Upon the release of his fleet the General did recall all naval forces. Swift as the renewed battle began it was coming to a close. The sizable and still quite formidable fleet he retained primed their engines and what fighters and bombers could be salvaged returned to their holds. As a sickeningly tense and uneasy ceasefire almost seemed to have sprung into effect. Looming warships of both sides passed one another and neither was willing to reignite the carnage. So it seemed at least. In no time at all, the miserable and weighted silence above the world was ended as the Separatist fleet exploded off into hyperspace. As they had days before, they pelted themselves into that other dimensional plain. It took some time, but they all retreated from Coruscant. The General in command of them immediately making ready upon their retreat to transport himself to the temporary holding world of the Separatist Council. As the Republic breathed an uneasy sigh of relief. More so, gratitude that it was over. Even as mounds of debris and dead lined the world taller than the few mountains that stood visible across Coruscant.

Even with this seeming end and the word spreading from Coruscant across the galaxy in a matter of moments, it was deemed unsafe for the Chancellor and his escort to leave their bunker until full security was reestablished. All ground units from the Separatists shut down upon loss of their control ships and operators. Those that operated independent of such were hunted down, but such an undertaking would likely take days to fully clear from the surface. The debris in orbit would take even longer to tractor and clear. While search efforts for the dead, dying and missing would begin in solemn a fashion for many countless sentient beings peppered throughout the capitol of the Republic.

Regardless, the Battle of Coruscant had ended. Millions dead reaching into the double digits, and only mounting from this single engagement alone. Yet, it was a victory for the Republic. The Supreme Chancellor was saved and returned. So too did the two greatest heroes of the Republic return. As news spread about Palpatine's safety so did news that Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi had been the ones to see to it. The HoloNet news networks would've surely descended on all of them had an order not been presented to all media networks to hold until the following day as security measures were implemented.

After all was said and done the Chancellor and his escorting Jedi were kept constrained within the bunker for three hours after their landing. Just as the barest hint of dusk began to show through what was otherwise a bright day, civilians were allowed to begin moving across the planet again. Their streaming vehicles lining the skyline quickly thereafter as if nothing had happened. Though their fears and anxieties were palpable through the Force as all of them had somewhere to be and to search. As such was done, the Chancellor was escorted aboard a simple shuttle back to the Republic Executive Building. Anakin, Obi-Wan, a compliment of troopers, and an unconscious old traitor acting as his company along the way.

---

Daylight still hung outside with only a bare tint of orange to be found. Really there was still much of the day to be had, and Anakin was appreciative of that. He was rummaging through his mind, head down turned and arms crossed. He had several people he had to meet with he was sure. The Council would undoubtedly wanna talk to himself and Obi-Wan. On many matters. Not least of which was the currently unconscious Sith Lord riding along with them. Anakin passed Dooku a sideways and silent glare from where he stood. The Count was still out cold and now nestled comfortably inside one of those mobile floating medical capsules. It made him sneer some. Imagining all those who were dead and still dying under rubble or whatnot, yet one of the people who put them there was just resting. Hand-less as he was though, and that alone put a darkened sort of smirk along Anakin's features even as he remained silent and repressed the thought slowly thereafter.

Well, to be fair they had saved one of Dooku's hands. The second was nowhere to be found. Anakin assumed it to have been tossed out of the ship upon its crash. Or, maybe down a shaft? Didn't matter really. He didn't know if an effort would be made to reattach and save the hand, turned out to be his right, or if it wasn't worth it. Should they even give a murderer like him his hands back? He was responsible for losing them, and if by some miracle he got loose...no not 'by some miracle' he had gotten free of them before. If he did, and he had his hands it would make his escape all that much more dangerous. Anakin felt his jaw clench and he loosed a nasally sigh. The anger of letting the man live crept up inside of him. And, he felt what could be best described as a gnawing mynock skittering away from inside him. There was an indomitable urge to kill him. Not just out of revenge, which he could admit to wanting himself. Rather it was fear. Fear of the unknown and the unexpected. If Dooku could get loose then he would be responsible for everyone that died thereafter. If Dooku got loose he'd never forgive himself and would be sure to hunt the old man down personally. He didn't fear him anymore. He was the one to sever his hands from the old fool's arms. Not Master Yoda, not Master Windu, not even his own Master. As his right hand clenched and that sensation of longing for empowerment enveloped him Anakin felt a hand clench his shoulder from behind.

"Huh?" He turned to see a smiling Obi-Wan casting him a crooked gaze.

"Something on your mind?" His Master asked. To be fair, Anakin didn't think he had been masking his emotions all that well just now.

"Well...yeah. Just a few things, Master."

"Anything worth talking about?" Ever prodding, Obi-Wan asked further. Anakin pursed his lips and thought about it for a moment. However, he glanced over shoulder. The Chancellor sat with his eyes closed and seeming both tired and serene. Though not asleep.

"No, Master. Not really."

"Anakin, you know I-"

"I know, I know." Anakin waved his old friend down. He forced a smile onto his face and swiped Obi-Wan's hand from his shoulder in playful a manner.

"It's nothing too important. Besides-" He pointed to Dooku.

"What are we gonna do about 'passed-out mass-murdery' here?" Obi-Wan tilted his head at the name but seemed to pass it off with a half smile. One that seemed more tickled than anything else, but Anakin would take it.

"I mean you told me he'd be going to the Temple. I mean more like, after that?"

"That will be a matter of discussion for the Council, Anakin. One I am sure they'll keep us all informed on."

"'Us?'" Anakin repeated.

"Master, you're on the Council." Anakin stated matter-of-factly. Obi-Wan waved him off.

"I am aware, Anakin. What I meant to say was that they would keep all Jedi, and the Republic informed on what we'll do with him. Keeping in mind the release of the news of his capture."

"I should think," Anakin turned around as Palpatine began to speak from behind him. His Master continued to look forward as the Chancellor glanced their way. "That his imprisonment should be a matter concerning the whole of the Republic, Master Kenobi. The Count may be a traitor to your Order, but he is an instigator of war against us all. Jedi, politician, teacher, farmer, and everything in-between and around. Though I suppose I sound a broken record." Palpatine chuckled to himself. Anakin deducing the Chancellor and his Master must've spoken about this before.

"Undoubtedly he is a criminal, Excellency. A war criminal and a traitor. He has many crimes to pay for, and I am sure the Council will see this and see justice passed on him. However, as I have said before, he is a danger. One that cannot be forgotten despite his defeat and arrest. Should he be placed in a Republic prison cell he may well escape more easily. Within the Temple he will be under constant and careful Jedi watch day in and out." Palpatine frowned and cast them both another look. This one more worried than anything else.

"Can you be so sure he won't escape, regardless? After all, considering how many of your Order have fallen during the course of this war to his side; I would hope you don't find me rude in my suspicion."

"'Suspicion' of what, sir?" Anakin asked, again more informally than Obi-Wan would've.

"Oh, it is no fear of mine. I must leave my trust in the Council's wisdom regarding one of their own. Rather, it is my suspicion that there will be many within the Republic who look down on this. When I inform the galaxy of his capture you can be assured, as can your Order, that there will rise a tide of negative sentiment. A sentiment that the Order is harboring Dooku from proper democratic punishment. As well as fear. Fear that he may escape under the protection of...sympathetic a Jedi within your Order and hidden well within the confines of your Temple." Palpatine paused and leaned his head up thoughtfully.

"Can you be so sure there are none among the Jedi at this moment who would not feel Dooku to be right? Are you assured that not one of them would feel him to still be in some way the Jedi he had once been?"

"I certainly can't imagine that!" Anakin began before Obi-Wan could speak in rebuttal.

"He's a mass murdering treasonous, butcher!" Anakin felt his anger spike and visibly stopped. He closed his eyes and made to control himself.

"If there...well okay," He collected himself. "After all the Jedi that have been killed because of him and that mechanical monster of his, on top of all the people who've died because of his 'movement' I can't see anyone left in the Order harboring any sympathies. If they do, then they'll need to get through me to get him out." Anakin declared, eyes steely and face stone.

"Yes..." Obi-Wan added slowly.

"As I said before, Chancellor, the Order will make sure he lives and is made capable of standing trial. We will do no more than keep him safe from any would be assassin, as we must take such into account, and any sympathetic persons as well. Once a sentence is laid down by the Republic, the Jedi will do what we can to see it through. That much I am certain of."

"Oh I certainly hope so, Master Kenobi." Palpatine sighed and smiled.

"Well, you have my full confidence. I only hope the Council sees such wisdom as you do."

"I'll help them to see it, Chancellor." Anakin interjected himself and caught a sideways look from Obi-Wan.

"Needn't you worry about it." Palpatine's smile broadened, and seemed more genuine.

"My thanks, Anakin. My trust lay in you, son. The Republic will need much in the way of healing. Not only here on Coruscant, but as a whole. That murderer's trial may be the thing that begins that process. Though, with Grievous still on the loose..." Palpatine seemed to bristle at the General's name. Anakin assumed it was at the memory of his chase and capture.

"We'll get him too. Just with some time."

"So confident." Palpatine chuckled in response, rising to a stand.

"If only more within the Republic shared such an attitude. My thanks, Anakin." Palpatine added as the whole group noted the shuttle's descent. They peered outward and noted the great Senate Building just ahead of them. Its massive dome blotting the sky ahead of their targeted stop. Streams of moving airspeeders clearly visible in their hurried movements across the ecumenopolis. The Chancellor fell back into silence as he waited by the shuttle exit.

"I do hope we can be so sure about how we'll handle things, Anakin." Obi-Wan whispered as low as he could. The Jedi Knight turned and stared somewhat confusedly at his Master.

"You mean we aren't going to keep him locked up? Or we aren't going to turn Dooku over for trial to the Republic? I want him tried and…well tried by the Order, but he has committed atrocities against many others besides the Order, Master."

"That's not what I mean. Subtlety and choosing your words wisely are more what I mean, Anakin. I would caution you to not deal our assurances and promises so flippantly to politicians. Even ones you like." Obi-Wan was sure to add with raised a hand. Anakin wanted to argue, but he paused and did his best to control himself. Allowing himself think over what he had in fact said.

"I only meant to say we would do what we could to help out. Keep Dooku 'safe, and secure.'" Anakin mocked openly with air quotes. "That and hunting down Grievous will undoubtedly be out next move, right?"

"That may well be. However, the Council doesn't like it when anyone gives assurances for the entire Order. We don't serve any one person, Anakin."

"I didn't say it for just one person! I said it for the Republic as a whole." The two bickered under their breaths.

"Is that so? To me it sounded like we just made several promises to the Supreme Chancellor. Not the Republic he serves."

"I..." Again, Anakin forced himself to pause and think over what he had said.

"Maybe." He conceded. "That doesn't change the fact that what I said is generally true."

"Maybe so. Just try not to be so forward with any politician. All I ask, Anakin. Last time you were I got dragged across a planet fighting a war."

"Was the right thing then and the right thing now." Anakin rebuffed. Obi-Wan shook his head.

"Even if it is, all I'm saying is jumping head first into promises you cannot keep with absolute confidence may not always pan out. Especially where politicians are involved." Anakin couldn't really argue against Obi-Wan's point. Though, he did think him a tad harsh at the moment. Regardless, he didn't really feel like arguing anymore. Seeing that he argeed with the point overall anyways.

"Alright, alright. I surrender. For today at least." Anakin raised his hands in defeat. His Master grumbled, knowing he hadn't really 'won' the argument per say.

Nonetheless, the shuttle began to slow and begin its landing along an open strip before the Executive Building. From what Anakin could see, a gathering of several prominent senators and representatives stood awaiting Palpatine. Along with a familiar Jedi Master. One he didn't have much a stomach to make conversation with. At least not today. No one could deny Master Windu could intimidate a rancor with one of his silent judgmental gazes.

The hustle and bustle of the building with moving droids and many moving politicians and government workers almost made it seem as if nothing had happened. Like the war that had consumed the entire planet for days had been little more than a slight inconvenience. It was honestly a bit off putting to Anakin. Nonetheless, the shuttle came to a final halt and its ramp descended down a set of stairs as it opened outward. Palpatine trotted down it where awaited several of his blue and red guardsmen in their garbs and robes.

Anakin was sure to follow after along with Artoo who whirred in happiness off of the shuttle. Anakin gave a once over of the gathered politicians. For a moment he looked and hoped to find just one face among the crowd. His eyes were set, and heart quickening. Yet...he didn't see her. It sent a jolt of worry through him, but he knew she was safe...she had to be! He had sensed her.

Still, he sighed and also noted his Master hadn't gotten off the shuttle with him.

"Are you coming, Master?" Obi-Wan watched him from the top of the shuttle's steps leaning into its doorway with a content smirk along his bearded face.

"Oh no, I'm not brave enough for politics. I have to report to the Council. Besides someone needs to be the poster boy." His smirk only broadened.

"Hold on, this whole operation was your idea." Anakin reminded with pointed a finger.

"Let us not forget Anakin that you contributed far more to this mission than I had. And you defeated Count Dooku, and you rescued the Chancellor, carrying me unconscious on your back. Not even mentioning the stunt with the fighters, the missiles, and flying a smoldering death trap." Obi-Wan motioned earnestly to his old apprentice. For his part Anakin couldn't help but bask in his Master's praise.

"All because of your training." Which, in that moment, Anakin honestly meant. Even if, and he knew he didn't, show it as often. He knew Obi-Wan had helped mold him into who he was. Plus it made Anakin feel...well, happy when he saw Obi-Wan smile at him.

"Anakin, let's be fair. Today you were the hero! And you deserve your glorious day with the politicians!" Now that almost sounded like Obi-Wan was pawning off all the coverage. Anakin chuckled at that. He could sense at least part of his Master's game.

"That and, someone needs to be there to deliver Dooku to the Temple." Another fair point.

"Alright, but you owe me one. And not for saving your skin for the tenth time. Or is it eleventh? Twelfth?"

"Ninth time." Obi-Wan corrected with a bob of his head.

"That business on Cato Neimoidia doesn't, doesn't count." He was sure to dictate to him. Though Anakin recalled the great…'moves' of Master Kenobi. His Master didn't even acknowledge the other times he had saved his skin. Cheater.

"I'll see you at the briefing." Quick save. Anakin thought with a smirk. He turned away from the shuttle as it once more whirred back to life and began to slowly pull off from the landing strip into the air. The Chancellor's entourage had already formed in on the old man. The preening political types undoubtedly back at their old ways despite the carnage before. All as Master Windu stood ahead of the crowd. Whatever he had to say to Palpatine wasn't really important. None of his business he supposed. Besides, Windu hardly kept him in his confidence.

"...the Senate will vote to continue the war as long as Grievous is alive." Anakin caught from his old friend as he neared the rear of the little crowd.

"Then the Jedi Council will make finding Grievous our top priority." Oh good to know! At least in that way Anakin found himself and Master Windu in agreement. Though, as he thought about that he did catch a familiar sight...

"Threepio!" Anakin greeted as the group just began to follow after Master Windu and Palpatine. His heart leapt. Not only at the arrival of his protocol droid, but also at the idea of how he had gotten there.

"Oh, Master Anakin, a pleasure to see you again, sir! It's been a most dreadful sight these last few days."

"I'm sure it has been." Anakin chuckled and kept moving forward as he noted Bail Organa waiting for him.

"Come along now Artoo!" The fop golden droid commanded of Artoo who whirred.

"The Republic cannot praise you enough." The elder senator began His visiage that of darker complexion, and hints of gray peppered about his otherwise darkened hair. Both atop his head or lining his face.

"Thank you, Senator Organa." Anakin had always liked the man. He hadn't always the chance to speak with him. But, from what he had been told...and from what he had seen the man was one of the few true believers in the Senate. Even if his stance on the war teetered o absolute pacifism. Honestly Anakin should've expected that from an Alderaanian.

"The 'end' of Count Dooku will certainly come as a blow to the Separatist cause." Bail continued on as Anakin caught Threepio and Artoo bickering behind them.

"I can only hope that perhaps a settlement of sorts could be found following such a catastrophe. The political failure of this attack will surely show any system looking in on this war that the Republic is more than capable of resisting any attacks from the Separatists. Though, peace by less bloodshed should always be my preferable course." Anakin smiled at the sentiment even if he didn't believe it to honestly be possible.

"I hope for everybody's sake that's true. But, the fighting will continue until General Grievous is spare parts." A glimmer caught his eyes. No, more a dark outline just outside his immediate eyesight. More a feeling had compelled him to look and he had at chance glanced it. His pace quickened even as the world around him seemed to have come to a grinding halt. His heartbeat bounced and loudly thrummed into his ears as he felt his body pulsate. He barely managed to keep the ginger pace he had taken with the Senator, but his legs were slowing and mind racing.

"Well, I will do everything I can in the Senate." Anakin liked the man, truly he did. The morals he had were one in a billion. However, at the moment he couldn't help but disengage. He paused and Bail sensed his unwillingness to continue on.

"Sorry Senator, but if you would excuse me."

"Certainly." Now that he did appreciate. Bail bowed at him and carried on his way without prompt and without lingering. Anakin paused and let the man move off down the hallway lined in many a mammoth pillar of darkened power projection.

Anakin saw her, and from afar he saw her dark eyes lighten his way. She was like a vision from whatever heavens you wanted to believe in. Beautiful beyond compare to anyone he had ever seen or met. Anakin doubted he could even imagine a woman more beautiful. He raced for her now, and let the world around him fade out of his head. She neared just slightly and he could see her features more clearly as she moved to embrace him.

Wordless they crashed against one another. His arms sweeping out and clasping around her form and frame. The comfort he found therein loosening every ache and pain within him. He had almost forgotten what it felt like to be next to her, and to feel her body against his. He swooned as he felt her grasp him and they both took heaping a breath. As if they hadn't breathed in the entirety of their parting from the other. Everything about her awoke within him an intense bout of emotions. Her placement in his arms and the tightened grip she held onto him with. Force, it may have been more encasing and powerful than his own and he would have it no other way. He relished her need for him and he hoped she felt his for her.

Anakin pulled her up, and only then did he realize mere seconds had passed but so much had crossed his mind and his senses. She was as light as a feather in his arms, and uncaring of the world around him he twirled her about. She gave the barest and lightest of laughs into his ear and his face beamed a smile unseen by her as he relished her joy. Everything, and he meant everything that had happened to him and around him was vanished as he felt this moment. His hate was stricken from him and that pulsating want that lingered in his right hand borne of so small a thing was beaten into submission by her presence.

He brought her about laughing and placed her back down to the ground. Her hands rose up and worked their way into his dirtied mane of dark golden hair. She didn't care, and knowing that, feeling that only awoke greater a sense of urgent love for her as she brought her face near. Wordless they came together. Heated they were and famished for the other as their lips crashed together. A brutal thing, as it was sincere and craved for from one to the other. He pulled her deeper into it and clasped his hand, gentle as it was powerful behind her head and felt the nape of her neck.

"Oh Anakin." She cooed, and her voice was a song. Two words was all it took and he felt alive in fullest once more. As if it wasn't real, as if he'd wake up and be lost in space somewhere having never known her. Yet, she was here, and she was with him. He could say nothing as loving as those two words felt to him in reply. As they once more pulled onto one another forgetting the world. She rested her chin against his shoulder and he wrapped her so close he imagined he may have begun to suffocate her.

Padmé, his Padmé. He grinned as a fool once more unseen by her. Though he was sure she knew it.

"I've missed you, Padmé. You haven't any idea how badly I've missed you." He sighed as he pulled away and she much the same. Both of them allowing their eyes to stare into the others. Tracing each others features. Daring the galaxy and the Force to make this moment a lie, or a dream.

"There were whispers that you'd been killed." She began as breathless as he. Only then allowing Anakin to appreciate the beauty of her again. Her fair features and darkened brown hair. Pulled up into two buns that only accentuated her face and made her all the more a wonder to behold.

"Over a year, Anakin." Her voice, strong as it was caved just the faintest bit underneath emotion.

"You have been lost for a year. I...I didn't give up, but you don't know how hard it was! Everyday the HoloNet, with their rumors and their whispers spoke of where you had been seen. Where you had been killed where you were being tortured! The gossip in the Senate was no better. No one knew anything." She was shivering in her anger mixed in sadness and relief. Anakin did what he thought best. He smiled and let his fingers run along her cheek and back across her neck.

"I'm alright." He smirked his signature smirk. Immediately her eyes lightened and traced with but a glimmer of water that he was sure to leave unspoken. So strong was his wife.

"I would say it feels like we've been apart for a lifetime. Were it not true. Depends on how long a year really is to you." He laughed. Though his mind wandered back to the errands the Council had sent him on after he and Obi-Wan had been retrieved from Arda. Awakening in him a renewed agitation and anger at their actions. For keeping him from her for so long. It was his turn to shake, though he felt he hid it better.

"Word had spread after you had been found. That it wasn't really you! That it was some...some lie made up by the Republic to shore up support for this war! Even with Grievous coming back everyone said you were gone." She went on allowing her hands to trace the boundaries of his face. Anakin obliged easily.

"Yeah I heard of some of them." Anakin smiled through his irritation. The HoloNet was useful for a great many things. Same could, he supposed, be said about the Senate. However, both were prone to gossip to the detriment of themselves and their reputation at times.

"I'm here though, Padmé." He promised, again lightly tracing his hand down the back of her neck. She smiled into his touch and leaned her head to the right where his hand lay.

"I doubt the Council would've brought us back from the Outer-Rim and the madness taking place out there if the Chancellor hadn't of been abducted." He postulated as he again took a long moment to stare into her eyes. He brushed her hair endlessly at her side where she rested. Her lips formed a smile so inviting as they were. He leaned in for another kiss, but she pulled aside and he caught her neck. Not at all disappointing but he did recoil in confusion.

"Wait, not here." Padmé began.

"Yes, here." Anakin retorted. A little more forcefully than he had wanted and he sighed.

"I'm sorry. I...I'm tired of all this deception. I don't care if they know we're married!" He was earnest in his declaration, and for a mere moment she smiled. Perhaps appreciating the sentiment, before she again turned cool and collected.

"Don't say things like that." Damn her political abilities! She had always been far better at hiding her feelings. Whether she would admit to it or not. Such a thought was dangerous though. He imagined if she could be hiding other things from him. A spike of jealousy pounced from inside. From a place buried deep within himself. Anakin fought it off as best he could, but he had to admit it was a looming and always present imagination and it made his skin crawl and chest constrict in horrible rage. It was this thought that diluted his senses and thinking as he felt her shake beneath his presence and gaze.

"Are you alright?" His gaze narrowed cautiously and worriedly.

"What's wrong?" Horror struck him. An imagination of another, and it made him seethe. Every feeling of joy was attacked by this fear that welled up from inside his soul.

"I...I don't know where to begin." Anakin felt his body tremble now, and clench.

"Is it...has it been..." He couldn't find the words as the universe trembled in his minds eye.

"Is it someone else?" Padmé whirled back and glared up at him.

"What?! How could you even say that?! Imagine that?!" Dark eyes met his blue, and in that instant he saw the hurt laced therein. His gaze softened and he realized how terrible an accusation that had been. He had allowed jealousy to win that one little battle and he felt ashamed for it. He closed his eyes and hung his head.

"I'm sorry. You're right that was...stupid of me. I'm stupid. Forgive me?" Anakin passed her an earnest and sorry smile. She kept her stare steely, but in a moment thereafter she too softened and brought both hands up to cup his face.

"Never say something so stupid again."

"I won't." He promised.

"You better not." She smiled and brought her lips to his. It was another blissful instant that swept all foul feelings aside. She had nothing to make up for, but she had still given him the kiss he had desired. She was too good to him, and he was in fact the galaxy's biggest idiot.

"Okay, so what is it Padmé. You seem worried. Talk to me." She sighed and took a second to compose herself.

"Something wonderful had happened. Not too long after our last visit together." Again she went silent and Anakin could feel her through the Force brim in a mixture of excitement and anxiety.

"Padmé?" She let her hands fall and grasp at his back.

"Ani, I was pregnant." Like that the whole universe came to a grinding and unapologetic stop. All sensible thought left him but the echo of one word.

"P...pregnant?" He breathlessly mimicked. His eyes darted across her features to gauge her response. Padmé only nodded and that glint of water in her eyes grew a bit more noticeable.

"Tha...that's um..." Never in all the time he had lived had he even imagined...dared to dream of this happening! Why hadn't he? Had he...kriff no they hadn't. Why hadn't they?

"Tha...that's wonderful!" Anakin pushed out of his mouth. As he said so, so many worries fluttered over him. So many things he could dwell on and that could've drove him crazy Still though he smiled like the fool he knew himself to be. Never imagining of a little being like Padmé, or Force forbid, himself! Yet, it stirred something in him. A protective force far stronger than anything before it-

"Wait." He paused through his dumb grin. His mind finally turning its gear again.

"'Was?'" She nodded.

"You mean you didn't..." Her brow furrowed in confusion before jumping up.

"Oh, no! No Ani." She laughed.

"I carried to term. Just fine. As you can see."

"Then the baby..." He began. She beamed wider than ever before and the tears streamed down her beautiful cheeks.

"They're doing just fine."

"'They?!'" Anakin repeated and she burst into a fit of laughter as she took in his clearly dumbfounded look.

"Twins, Ani. A boy and a girl."

"Wha...I..." He laughed and hung his head.

"Twins. I can't…" He had no words in that moment.

"What are their names?"

"You missed your chance." She teased him and swiped at his shoulder as she wiped one streaking tear away. Again he said nothing.

"The boy is Luke, your son. The girl, Leia. Your daughter." A faint sound of droid feet pattering away caught his attention and Anakin glanced over shoulder to see a protocol droid shuffling from the landing pads inwards.

"You are..." He searched for the words he wanted to say as he pulled her more into the darkness of the pillar they stood in the shadow of.

"The most incredible woman." He chuckled and she met his laugh with a brimming grin all her own.

"Shut up."

"Never." He teased. But, before long she bore the look of concern.

"I hadn't given it too much thought since you've been 'missing,' but I don't know what we're going to do." Padmé and him shared another battle of gazes.

"What are we going to do?"

"Well, we're not gonna worry about it." He dictated.

"This is beyond any measure a happy moment." Anakin laughed through the maelstrom of emotions both good and bad inside his heart, mind, gut...kidneys.

"The happiest moment of my life." Again they pulled one another in and their lips met in tender a joining. Their love spoken in so simple an act as to melt the galaxy away. Padmé pulled back.

"Just wait until you meet them." She smirked. Anakin smiled.

All the universe seemed to in that moment make sense and be alright. Even as he did wonder what the kriff he was going to do. Kriff it! It was a happy moment!

---

Obi-Wan had remained silent following Anakin and the Chancellor's disembarment. Left alone with the silent and quite living body of the Master to his own Master. His thoughts had managed to stray off towards Qui-Gon. Dooku's presence affected him in such a way. Had always done so even upon first discovering his betrayal on Geonosis all those years ago. Obi-Wan did truly wonder where the Count's loyalties would've fallen has Qui-Gon still lived. Though it did make him recall his Master's killer. Darth Maul. Just another servant of this shadow lord the Jedi were still looking for. The need to find them and bring them down driving many among the Order to fear from which shadow he may strike next. Certainly, the loss of his next apprentice following the loss of Maul would force him to seek out another. Right?

It made his brow furrow in thought. First Maul, as far as the Order was aware. Second came Tyranus.

"Tyranus." Obi-Wan echoed his thoughts aloud. Though not so loud as to draw the attention of the clone guard sent with him. It had not been too long into the start of the Clone Wars that it was discovered that the Count went by this Sith moniker as well as his birthed name. Never truly submitting his old identity away as was common among the Sith. Odd enough on its own, but perhaps there was a more prosaic method to the madness? He certainly believed so.

Obi-Wan played over from memory his meeting with Jango Fett on Kamino. Not a wholly pleasant memory, but that was beside the point. What truly bothered him, and what bothered the entire Council in silence was the revelation of Dooku's Sith name. It was Fett who had said that a 'Tyranus' had hired him from a moon over Bogden to act as the clone's template. He hadn't known it at that moment, but it certainly became clear that it had been Dooku. Of all people he had begun the creation of the clone army. In some way Master Diyas had been involved but that was still a hazy mystery to most within the Order. Well those who even knew anything about it. Indeed, none but the High Council members knew that Dooku, or 'Tyranus' had ordered their creation. For what purpose though? To what end?

Of course, no one could say anything. That was the rationale of the Council. Considering such may well lead the other Jedi within the Order and maybe even some politicians within the Republic to reject the army. They would have valid a reason to at that. However, regardless of their creation and their intended purpose the clones had proven themselves more than capable of dealing with the droids. Yet, Dooku had always seemed a stalwart leader of the Separatists, and their droid armies. Everyone on the Council knew something was awry here. Yet, through time and again the clones had proven to be nothing but equally stalwart defenders of the Republic. The Kaminoans opening up their planet, their pocket books of course, and their measures taken to grow and train the millions of soldiers they pumped out for the Republic. Nothing was amiss. Indeed the Kaminoans went out of their way to distance themselves from the Separatists. They had been attacked multiple times at that and defended by those clones and by the Jedi. So, what was the purpose?

Of course, Obi-Wan didn't know. And, all it did was make him uneasy. So, as the shuttle neared the great expanse of his home, the Jedi Temple, Obi-Wan imagined getting some answers. He glanced down to Dooku again. Imagining, hoping even that they could in short a time frame get him to spill his secrets. For, he had many that could benefit the Republic, the Order, and even bring about peace.

"I certainly hope so." Obi-Wan intoned to none but himself as the shuttle landed. One of the Temple's landing pads had extended itself outwards and revealed the interior hanger within. A slab of metal projected itself outward and several lights extended out from the ground. The shuttle loomed over it and came to a slow descent atop. It rested itself down, and Obi-Wan caught a glimpse into the hangar bay. Within were lined many a Jedi. Not just masters, of which he could see Yoda, Tiin, Kolar and Shaak Ti. There were also many non-Council masters. Both knights and padawans. All of them leering and shuffling to get a view.

Obi-Wan hadn't of figured news of Dooku's capture had traveled that fast. Alas, here he was. He wasn't one to be scared off by crowds. Though it was slightly awkward to be so clinically observed by so many of his fellow Jedi. He readied himself. Rolled his shoulders sniffled a bit of air and closed his eyes. Centering himself within the Force, before opening his eyes again and motioning towards the extending ramp.

"If you wouldn't mind, troopers."

"Yes, General." One of them replied and began moving the capsule out onto the extended landing bay. This trooper led the capsule out and it was in turn followed by four troopers. Two of whom moved forward to its sides, and the other two trailed it. Blasters at the ready just in case. Obi-Wan followed his trooper escort out. Ensuring he picked up a small metal case tucked into the side of the shuttle as he went.

The trek along the landing pad was pretty silent save for the clang of boots against metal. The warble of the capsule gave the faintest sound as well, but Obi-Wan moved ahead. The troopers began to slow as the others among the Council stepped forward. The rest of the gathered Jedi remaining back. Silently aware that their place was not to inject themselves into this matter. Yoda leaned into his gimmer stick and his ears rose and fell in quick succession. Tiin bore the usual gruff look common of himself as he eyed the capsule. Kolar was stoic, but Obi-Wan could see his eyes sorrowfully cast a gaze onto Dooku. Unlikely meant for the Count. More likely meant for what was left in his wake. Whereas Shaak showed her arms bandaged with the right contained in a sling. The togruta cast Obi-Wan a smile first and foremost, and it did wonders to make him feel at ease. Before she also turned onto Dooku. Her eyes hardening some, which was certainly a rarity for the usually mild mannered and calm woman. The rest of the Jedi glancing over one another and past taller Jedi's heads and shoulders. All bore similar awed looks. Intrigue mingled with resentment and curiosity marred by cooled and controlled disdain.

"Master Kenobi, warms my heart it does, to see you returned." Yoda greeted at the head of the Council members. His small form bore a genuine smile as he eyed Obi-Wan. In turn he smiled and came to a stop at the head of the trooper column.

"Master Yoda." Obi-Wan bowed and noted the men behind him stopping.

"Where's your old apprentice, Obi-Wan?" Master Kolar asked.

"Oh, I pawned the politicians off on him." Obi-Wan smirked and chuckled. Eliciting much the same from the others. Even Tiin. Though he only smirked. The mood didn't entirely last though. As Obi-Wan sighed and hardened himself.

"Masters, I present Count Dooku. Defeated and captured by Anakin." The Council all noted that revelation with their own mixed emotions. Yoda was calm and bore littlest in response. Though Obi-Wan could see him nod. As if he had expected it. Tiin recoiled back in surprise but said nothing. Shaak's eyes widened while Kolar made an intone amounting to a 'huh.'

"Then we should like to speak with Knight Skywalker. To understand the series of events."

"Come that will, in due time." Yoda assured Tiin.

"I spoke with Anakin about it, masters. I can provide a preliminary report if need be?"

"Perhaps," Shaak began. Everyone noting the hoarseness of her voice. Obi-Wan cringing inwardly at the sound. Having learned the extent of what she had went through trying to secure the Chancellor from Grievous days prior. "It would be better left for a time when the whole of the Council can be gathered? Master Windu is conferring with the Chancellor as we speak. As well as coordinating some cleanup and security efforts from the Executive Annex."

"Agree with you I do, Master Ti." Yoda again noted. The diminutive Grand Master motioned one of his hands inwards. Obi-Wan stepped aside and the trooper approached with Dooku in tow.

"Unconscious he is. Long, has it been?" Yoda asked as the seemingly sleeping old man came more clearly into view. More for the other Jedi than Yoda himself to be honest.

"For a few hours now." Obi-Wan nodded.

"Anakin tells me he knocked him unconscious after gaining the upper hand and...well removing his hands." Obi-Wan nudged to the stumps. They were now covered in bacta bandages to keep them from becoming infected. An act he was sure some among the Republic and maybe even the Jedi would find ironic. Considering Dooku would be unlikely to provide similar a courtesy to captured enemy.

"He 'told' you, Master Kenobi?" Tiin bore a confused look to him. In turn Obi-Wan gave an airy chuckle.

"It's something of a long story, Master Tiin."

"Sure sounds like it." Shaak smiled.

"Escorted to the medical wing of the jails, Dooku should be. Taken from here by Jedi, he should be." Yoda nodded to the troopers who pulled away and saluted.

"Yes, General Yoda." The lead spoke before the men turned and silently made back for the shuttle. As they did Obi-Wan noted the approach of several others among the crowd. One of them Obi-Wan knew to be Master Drallig. The stern elder man with long hair that fell down his back seemed much as he had last Obi-Wan saw him. Though Obi-Wan did...sense more than see an air of disquiet about him. He couldn't quite place it.

Regardless, flanking the Master were several knights bearing the standard brownish robes of the Order. However, underneath they were lined in heavier armor unlike many among the Order. Even those who fought on the front lines. He recognized them as members of the Jedi Peacekeepers. Temple security, police forces whose reach extended to the area surrounding the Temple as well as the Temple itself. Obi-Wan hadn't many run ins with their type in the past. The two who followed Drallig bore the serene and emotionless faces expected. Not just of Jedi but of policing types.

"Master Kenobi, it brightens the Temple to see you return to us." Cin gave a thin smile. Obi-Wan reciprocated and bowed.

"It's good to be home, Master Drallig. I take it you'll be guarding our guest?"

"Not so much personally, but the Peacekeepers will answer directly to me in all matters concerning the prisoner." Cin assured.

"I have full confidence in you and your Peacekeepers." Obi-Wan nodded. Cin bowed and turned aside letting his two silent knights step forward, one a bith man and the other a human woman. They both stopped and bowed deeply towards Obi-Wan.

"A pleasure to meet you, Master Kenobi. I am Knight Nedama Kholt." The woman, Nedama, began. Her voice deeper than he had expected. Obi-Wan took a moment to note her appearance. At least in her thirties and she bore a cool gaze with gray eyes. She was fair toned, with dark brown hair pulled back behind her head in a simple braid.

"I am Knight Rowban, it is indeed an honor, Master." The bith spoke in his native tongue. Luckily Obi-Wan knew a bit of it to make out what he had said. Rowban bore the common look of his people. A larger head than humans or the near-humans of the galaxy. A beige skin tone and large eyes that seemed more innocent than his partner's. Obi-Wan guessed him to be a newer recruit to the Peacekeepers. Still young. Regardless, Obi-Wan smiled and bowed to them again.

"A pleasure to meet you both. Do watch yourselves with this one." He cautioned. "I don't think anyone needs to be reminded just how dangerous Dooku can be."

"You needn't worry about us, Master. We've specialized in security and prisoner observation for some years now."

"They'll do fine." Cin spoke up after Nedama.

"Though I do believe Master Che will need to have a look over of the Count." Cin added and Obi-Wan inwardly cringed. The Order's Chief Healer and thus head of the Circle of Healers was a rather blunt and irritable twi'lek woman.

"Oh!" Obi-Wan gave a start and pulled at the metal case he had hauled in.

"She will need this I think." Obi-Wan held it ahead not sure whom to give it to. Cin took it and gave another crooked look of confusion.

"This is, Master?"

"That would be the one hand Anakin and the troopers recovered from the downed ship. Perhaps it is not my place to say what should or shall happen, but I and Anakin thought it best to retain it regardless."

"Agree, I do." Yoda interjected from where he had remained silently standing.

"Do we mean to give that...the Count his hand back?!" Tiin, a little more aggressive than necessary, asked. Surely a question on all their minds.

"He would not show any of us the same mercy." Kolar began.

"Which is why it is the right thing to do." Shaak completed the thought. A common occurrence on the Council. Cin for his part gave another sideways and awkward look to the case in his hand before shrugging.

"As you wish. We'll begin transferring him to the medical wing. Master Che is likely pacing herself into a stupor as is." Cin offered. Obi-Wan chuckled at the mental image.

"That would definitely fit her." Obi-Wan added which in turn Cin smirked thinly to. Though he turned back to Yoda and the rest of the Council present.

"Masters." He bowed, and was promptly followed by both Nedama and Rowban. The three of them in step turned and Master Drallig led them toward the interior of the Temple. The other gathered Jedi, whom Obi-Wan noted still lurked about, made a pathway for the passing Jedi. He and the other Council members watched as the medical capsule passed on through. All eyes watched it move by. Mixtures of sadness, anger, pain, and even just sheer confusion mingled about them. Sometimes all coming from the same person even.

"One of the Lost Twenty returns to us." Shaak intoned with a sadness to her voice.

"Certainly not in the way any one of us should like." Kolar offered.

"Dooku made his choice. Now he has been made a prisoner." Tiin followed. Harsher than the rest as usual. "Justice shall be swift for him. I should hope at least."

"Careful we must be." Yoda cautioned as he used the Force to call his floating chair to him.

"Defeated, Count Dooku is. Imprisoned, he shall be. Great pain he has caused. Wish further, we should not. For him, or upon him. Dangerous a mindset this should be. Utmost care, I caution. Empathy even. Lost he is, and twisted he has become." Tiin remained silent as Yoda cautiously dictated. The others seemed to be inherently agreeable to the sentiment. Obi-Wan hadn't really much to say or think. He had done a lot of that on the shuttle ride over already.

"What's the next course of action to take, Master?" Obi-Wan began. Yoda hummed thoughtfully as he pulled himself up onto his seat. It warbled to life and began floating up into the air.

"Next course, Obi-Wan? Quick you are to set out on another mission perhaps, hmm?" Great, not even an hour in and he was being teased by the Grand Master. He, nonetheless, beamed. Feeling like a padawan once again.

"No, not quite, Master. I more meant about Dooku."

"Ah yes." Yoda hummed again.

"Healed, he should be. Made strong again for interrogation, he shall."

"And what of the Republic?" Kolar asked. "They'll certainly want to put him on trial."

"Indeed." Obi-Wan cut in.

"The Chancellor imparted his view that it was the right of the Republic to hold him and take him to trial. He seemed quite adamant about it."

"The Chancellor and the Republic haven't the capability to hold someone like Dooku." Tiin barked, confident and assured as ever.

"Speak on this matter another time, we should. When gathered, all members of the Council are. A topic, not lightly spoken, this is."

"I agree."

"Agreed." Shaak and Kolar respectively replied whilst Tiin gave a grumble, but seemed to relent again.

Obi-Wan watched the gathered crowd finally begin to disperse. Many of them oddly enough holding smiles along their faces. They moved in small groups. Pairs of two or three off back into the Temple. Some moving to the other side of the hangar. Perhaps working here as the Temple's hangar staff. They were chatting and going on. Hushed tones and an overall ease flowed outward through the Force. As Dooku and his escort had since disappeared into a turbolift.

"Ah, see it you do, Master Obi-Wan?" Yoda chuckled.

"Huh?" Obi-Wan furrowed his brow. While Master Ti joined Yoda in his mirth only making Obi-Wan even more confused.

"What? What's so funny?" He smiled despite his confusion.

"They weren't here just to see Dooku's body, Obi-Wan." Tiin chortled. Now that truly was unexpected.

"Who? The crowd we had?"

"Exactly." Kolar raised his finger up. A 'eureka' sort of movement that still confused Obi-Wan.

"I'm entirely not following."

"Come they have to see you, Master Kenobi." Yoda, sounding a little more serious, revealed. Obi-Wan tilted his head.

"Me? What do you mean?"

"Oh come now, don't be coy, Obi-Wan." Tiin rebuked.

"The Republic bought into months of hearsay and gossip that both you and Skywalker had been killed in the Outer-Rim at Elom. It was a grand conspiracy to cover up your deaths to say you and your old padawan were missing." Kolar explained.

"Very few would like to admit it. Especially within the walls of the Temple, but many among the Order had also begun to believe the rumors and speculation. Like it or not, Obi-Wan, but many among the Jedi look up to you and Anakin." Shaak finished knowingly. For his part Obi-Wan could only scoff at the notion.

"Anakin is far more the poster boy than I am!"

"Perhaps." Yoda interjected.

"Yet, bring hope to many, you do, Obi-Wan. Seen as a strong leader, you are."

"It is not exactly my intent to be...'famous,' Master Yoda." Obi-Wan countered earnestly, humbly.

"Believe you, I do. To break their view of you, easy it is not." Yoda chortled, sat comfortably within his chair. Obi-Wan in kind shook his head at such a ridiculous notion. Well...no, not entirely ridiculous. Just odd. He had indeed never seen himself as some beacon the other Jedi need look up to. Sure, the citizens of the Republic formed fan clubs of sorts surrounding prominent members of this war. Some bordering on cult like obsession at that. He cringed, recalling some of the HoloNet results Anakin found whilst 'surfing' it regarding his person. Honestly some people had no respect.

Still, he allowed another thin smile to cross his bearded face. Indeed, he supposed if some knights and padawans gained some measure of hope by his presence then what was the harm being done? He and Anakin had done quite a bit before the Arda Campaign. This mission alone cemented the fact that they were still well enough involved and as 'heroic' as ever. If that was the word they sought to use. This, as Obi-Wan replayed revelations learned upon Arda. He knew he wasn't perfect, and neither had his apprentice been. Heroes rarely did live up to the images born in the minds of the infatuated and concerned. That didn't change the fact that Anakin had done immeasurably great things. For both the Republic and Jedi Order. And, Obi-Wan would help him get through this...miasma he had gotten himself into if he could.

"Master Kenobi?" Obi-Wan visibly shook his head free of his thoughts as Master Ti spoke. She and the others shared a similar staring look upon him.

"Forgive me." Obi-Wan began. "I was lost in thought."

"On your apprentice, maybe?" Yoda intuited.

"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan laughed a bit nervously. "Just reviewing the fact we're 'celebrities,' Master." He offered taking on a more coy mannerism.

"Don't go growing too large a head, Master Kenobi." Kolar cautioned eliciting a laugh from Obi-Wan. He took in a long breath of air thereafter and sighed. Reveling in the fact he was indeed 'home' for all intents and purposes. Among his fellow Jedi, and within the walls of their Temple. It put him at ease. Helped him center himself despite its more slate and cool manner and feeling. He wondered, though briefly, if he could maybe find Bant! Likely in the Room of a Thousand Fountains if anywhere. Though, as he thought about that, another thought entered his mind. It darkened his manner some.

"Masters, I would like a word, if you wouldn't mind?" He began. Yoda tilted his head and Obi-Wan sensed the Grand Master already knew what he was going to ask before he had.

"Concerns the creation of the new WatchCircle, it does?" Yoda, of course, perceived. Obi-Wan immediately saw the others gathered grow suddenly more grim and pensive.

"Yes, Master. This 'Temperance WatchCircle,' leaves me with...well reservations and concerns."

"Vote for it, you did, Master Obi-Wan." Yoda stated evenly.

"Yes, I did, Master. Though I still would like to know more clearly its mandate. The transcript I received gave some details, but nothing of the data we're working off of. As well, no indication as to whom would be heading this Circle."

"Not just the WatchCircle." Ti spoke up with a bit of an edge to her now. Spoken through her ragged and worn voice. "They will hold authority over the Jedi Covenant as a whole. The Temperance WatchCircle would be but the key Circle of Jedi operating within."

"Perhaps this is also a topic not so flippantly spoken without all Council members present?" Tiin cautioned. "I would argue better accommodations needed as well." Tiin went on.

Obi-Wan saw the wisdom in that. Truthfully he had spoken somewhat out of turn. However, such a thing and its creation affected him. Sure, he had voted for its inception and he could not walk that back. It was for the betterment of his case, as of yet to be fully made. However, if blindly walked into the matter it could lead to greater frustration and concern for Anakin. Selfish a reason to be concerned with it? Undoubtedly, but its ramifications were, nonetheless, quite far reaching. Anakin's hidden love life or no.

"Agreed, I am." Yoda nodded to Tiin.

"Once convened the Council is, discuss this matter we shall." Well that put that to rest.

"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan bowed.

"As to its leadership, chosen a Jedi Master has been. Put to a vote they must be. Directly answerable to the Council and the Council alone."

"Yes, I recall the dictation of the Council on the matter. Though, I was unaware names had already been put forward." Obi-Wan replied to Yoda.

"Some names were drawn up, Master Kenobi. Though the Battle broke out not too long after we requested the attendance of the most accomplished among the names. They will still require majority vote and acceptance of the position." Tiin went on. Sounding more than pleased with the burgeoning of this WatchCircle, as had been evident by his portion of the transcript delivered to Obi-Wan.

Regardless, Obi-Wan could only nod. Such a matter was moving very quickly along. He could only hope it was formed and founded on strong grounds. Not shabbily thrown together to counter whatever evidence this Kolvori had presented to shock Master Windu so utterly.

"Very well. I suppose the next meeting should be quite a mammoth one. Though I would be honored to know who this first choice is? In only so I may better consider them." Yoda gave another of his chortles in reply.

"Returned from the Outer-Rim he has. Much as you and young Skywalker. Jedi Master, A'Sharad Hett." Obi-Wan's brow rose near immediately at that.

"'Master' Hett?" Force, they were getting younger! Maybe Anakin would be fast tracked to Master-hood soon enough.

"Grown strong and wise, he has. Humble, Master Hett is. A personal relationship, hold he does. His Master Mundi sits upon our Council."

"It would make his leadership role more welcoming to have a familiar face. Well, more familiar that is." Kolar reasoned after Yoda spoke.

"I suppose so." Obi-Wan could see the wisdom there. Even if it did sound more like a political move. Though from what he recalled A'Sharad was an able, humble and powerful Jedi. Not only was he Mundi's apprentice, but Obi-Wan recalled when the two of them had taken Anakin under their collective wing when he was...withheld by Ventress. That brought back bad memories. He let them release quickly into the Force.

"I shall ready myself for his hearing then. Though I am put at ease by his choosing." Honestly he was. Obi-Wan had only been surprised at the age in which Hett had been made a Master. Truly, Obi-Wan got the sense most among the Council; well those gathered here at least, that they already liked him for the position. It would certainly make any refusal or unease on his part somewhat moot if so thoroughly pushed for by the rest of the masters.

"Come, the time will. Discuss the WatchCircle, as well as Dooku, we shall. For now, rest we must. A long week it has been." Yoda smiled earnestly and attempted to ease everyone from their thoughts and ruminations on such politically minded matters.

"A sentiment I can agree with." Obi-Wan smirked and began walking towards the nearest turbolift with the rest of the Council members.

"Regardless of everything else, it's good to have you back, Obi-Wan." Shaak freely declared.

"Agreed."

"Indeed." Kolar joined with Master Ti followed by Tiin. All as Yoda chortled on and that alone said it all. Filling Obi-Wan with a sense of familiarity. Of family. He smiled and dipped his head in humility against their reception.

"It's good to be back."

Indeed it was.

---

The sliding door to the interior of his main office opened up and Palpatine swiftly strode within followed by his entourage. They had not relented in pestering him since his return to the Executive Building. His brow showing no signs of the frustration and disdain welling within.

"The Senate will demand an immediate convening, your Excellency."

"Then they shall have to await such. I am in no mood to stand before the Convocation Chamber in my current state! I've only just been returned planet-side but hours ago, and should like some rest." He paused and thought a moment. "As well, a change of clothes. These robes are days old on me." True a statement. Though he prided himself on his cleanliness and dress.

"At least allow us to draw up a brief statement, Chancellor! To quell what will be...what already has become the torrent of requests and information flooding from the thousands of senators and representatives!" Amedda went on. The chagrian doing admirable a job in agitating him further with his politically minded prattle. In this current moment Palpatine wasn't quite sure what annoyed him more. The fact that Amedda was correct in wanting to push through a statement of sorts, or that he couldn't be bothered to care about any of that? Past hours replaying in his head over and over again. A crawling and itching discordance rhythmically rattling about his memory. The fact that Dooku was in the Jedi Temple at this very hour! He felt his nostrils flare. He fought with every ounce of self control to stop himself from blowing up. Little else could make today worse than a revelation of his wrath to so preening the gathered toadies of the Galactic Republic.

Rounding his table, Palpatine sunk into his seat. A sigh passed from his nose and he eyed the entourage. The preening gaggle spread itself out into a line of faces. All of them likely having some point to trouble him with. All of them needing or wanting something of him. True care he doubted, came from any of them. Of course, he had not been in any real danger. That was besides the point. Bureaucrats, toads and simpletons. He had to fight hard to contain the wretched anger burning beneath the surface.

"You may draw up a statement for my review." Palpatine relented from his chair with a wave of his hand. "No information will as of yet pass from beyond those already in the know as to the capture of Count Dooku. Though I can see such news has already begun to spread." The Chancellor intoned with a tinge of disappointment to his voice. Many tried to disengage eye contact with him. They were the epitome of gossipers these bureaucrats. They put schoolchildren to shame really.

"Let the whispers and talk spread." Palpatine again sighed. "Whatever the case, I will address the senate tomorrow morning. For now, a statement with my official stamp shall be sent out announcing my return. My safe return." He corrected himself.

"I will need a commendation from the state for both Jedi, Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi. As well, it shall dictate a wider decree of thanks and support for all those affected by this terrible, absolutely terrible and cowardly plot. The attack on Coruscant will not go unpunished. As well," He carried on easily flowing into his political mannerisms. "We shall create a relief fund bankrolled by the state for reconstruction across the capitol. Improvements even! For both damaged and undamaged facilities as a show of our resolve." Some among the crowd looked to one another. Palpatine knew what to expect. It was hilarious really.

"Your Excellency," One of his men from the Treasury began. A man nearing his fifties. Force, he could not recall his name. Indeed he was tired despite himself.

"Such a notion, while noble of course, would be costly!" Palpatine wanted to snicker. 'Costly' he says! The coffers of these men alone could bankroll thirty systems in the Outer-Rim for two years per planet, yet whenever matters concerning what they saw as 'charity work' came to the fore they were the meek. Politicians with deep pocket books never could see the grander vision of things. To them all that mattered was a larger bank account. Men and women obsessed by numbers.

"By that reason alone we should deny our citizens who've suffered days of torment beneath battle-occupation reprieve?" Palpatine placed a smile onto his face even as his tone carried clear indignation towards the treasurer. "My friends, even if I must pay for Coruscant's reconstruction myself, they will see relief come! Indeed, I will do so!" Palpatine waved over one of his attendants.

"Utoi, do get me a copy of my accounts. I shall require a temporary state fund to-"

"Chancellor please!" Amedda cut in. "The state cannot accept you paying for such an effort on your own!"

Ah the hypocrisy! For you see, if he did such a thing the people would understand that he had been forced to. How bad would they then look? A tragic thing. To be forced into charity work because of image projection. Pathetic fools. Of course he wasn't going to be paying! He would make them though. He would see it done, the Republic would see it done.

"Such a fund will be of little protest." Amedda assured even as the treasurer seemed to sweat. "I will have the Treasury draw up parameters for such a relief effort." Amedda turned to the treasurer with a look baring no room for contest.

"At once." Amedda pronounced. The man bowed.

"Yes, sir." He made to commit to the duty. Well, that was one of the fools down.

"Now then, as for the rest of you I should like to reiterate my desire for privacy. I've been through an ordeal and I would like a night to myself." He raised his hand preemptively.

"The Republic is safe tonight, the capitol is without too many dangers to the survival of the government. Draft the letter, allow me to see it, and we should release it before the night is done. At which point the media hold will be released. I want loss projections, infrastructure damage reports and the losses of the Home Fleet and its relief forces on my desk come tomorrow afternoon. Oh," Palpatine started again as the group took in his demands. "I would also desire a report concerning the newest vessel addition to our fleet! I hear it made marvelous work against the Separatist forces."

"Many questions revolve around it, Chancellor sir." Another among them added. An aid between his office and the military apparatus.

"They will continue to do so. The revelation of the ship was premature, even if necessary. I would have as little spoken about it until I am made ready. That, may I add, is no request." A sharp upturn of his voice intoned to them that this was not a matter to be freely gossiped about. A tremor from his manner and voice sent some of them back just a little. Very rarely did the Chancellor ever show such, and it gave them all a bit of a start.

"I will endeavor to keep the ship's presence quiet, your Excellency. Though perhaps it should be returned to dock from whence it came? Out of sight and mind." Amedda offered, and fine an idea it was.

"Indeed, that would be for the best. The military should do well to begin cleanup and reconstruction efforts on Centax-II. Our cloning facilities there will come in handy as this war continues. Sadly of course. Until the capture or destruction of General Grievous." Until he was ready more like it.

"I shall relay the orders, Excellency." Amedda again dutifully bowed. Palpatine passed them all a thin smile before he leaned back into his seat and closed his eyes. Another heaving sighed left him and a groan. It elicited the response he desired too.

"Forgive us our imposition, Chancellor. We shall let you rest. All matters will go through me if that should trouble you less? Until you are ready of course." Vice Chair Amedda. A useful crony from time to time. Briefly, Palpatine wondered if the fool would still be of use following his ascension. Another time for that question though. For now, he smiled and 'forced' his eyes open.

"That sounds lovely, Amedda. Please do keep me and my offices appraised."

"Of course, Chancellor. Come!" Amedda swirled about and shooed the group out. Some of them muttering and some of them annoyed. Frankly, Palpatine could care less about their trivial matters. Especially now as he was mingled in both feigned and very real weariness.

"Oh, Amedda." Palpatine called. Causing all of them to turn.

"Yes, Chancellor?"

"I must attend to one matter. However, it is of some importance beyond your scope. Do send in Director Isard." Unfazed by such a statement or request, Amedda bowed and wordlessly continued shooing all from the room. The door slid closed after they exited, and Palpatine caught a glimpse of the red guard beyond taking up a blocking position before it. He relaxed for a moment. Allowing his mind to freely roam from thought to thought as he waited on Isard's arrival. It shouldn't take too long. The man had to be lurking in some pillar's shadow around the Executive for sure.

In the meantime, he pulled himself back up and straightened his posture. His eyes stared numbly at the table before him, and he leaned inwards. Allowing his hands to come together on top of the desk. They balled as a mesh of flesh and he then numbly turned to look at them. His mind still rummaging through the past few hours. Anger welled, and agitation festered inside. Unbeknownst to anyone, even the Jedi with all their vaunted power, the Force was in tumult just beyond the veil of his flesh.

How could it have happened? He wondered so idly in his lonesomeness. What had he done wrong? What had changed?! His eyes narrowed and his hands clasped just ever so much more tightly to the other. He had spent over a decade on that boy. Slowly whispering into his ear and setting thoughts to his mind. Palpatine had seen Anakin's ego strengthened, and helped to make his fears realized. Time and again Anakin had showed himself to be weak beneath his influence. Yet, he sat here having lost a battle at a most critical juncture!

In fact, he was wondering just what he had cost himself with this little battle? Millions dead, both civilian and military. Infrastructure torn and battered and a sizable portion of the Home Fleet and its relief units decimated. Trivial perhaps in the grand scheme, but in this moment seeming steep a price to have paid for so little given back in return.

The point of this battle was to cement the boy's placement as his intended heir, and the heir to that old fool! That old and now useless wretch that still lived and whom was now protected behind layers of durasteel within the Jedi Temple! This was the moment, the time when the Separatists and their hollow Confederacy was to begin entering into its death knell. Dooku was supposed to die, and in doing so just leave Grievous behind. The General himself could've well died this day and have cost him little. He still had Gunray. He could've used that alien slug to his benefit. In any and every plan there were known unknowns. Potentialities of what could go wrong or not exactly in the manner you could anticipate or desire. Yet, he had never imagined Anakin to have spared Tyranus! The Count was too dangerous to be left alive, and now he had little recourse but to see him dead through some unknown means. Before then he would have to play the political game and see him brought through the courts. Ample opportunities to rattle the sabers of the masses who've suffered so dearly on Coruscant itself due to his treachery. Though it would also do well for him to not awaken anytime soon. At least Palpatine knew he had dealt with that problem. That made him smile at least.

Skywalker and Kenobi had stood next to him for hours and hadn't noticed a thing. Not an inkling through the Force. Even now as Dooku remained trapped inside the confines of his own thoughts. They had sensed nothing. Nothing as Palpatine had inflicted his damage upon the old fool's mind. Trapping him in an endless bout of memory and dreams. Why should Dook have seen treachery? He clearly hadn't seen it coming, and that was a victory in and of itself. Dooku had honestly believed himself to be changing the galaxy for the better. Palpatine had made him believe so since his coming to power as Chancellor and the death of his 'Master.' A disenchanted old man who had wasted decades of his life for now several causes that bore no fruit and cast his name to history as a bookmark. A mere stepping stone. Whereas his name, Palpatine's name, would be forever etched into the galaxy's fabric. Come twenty years who will even recall the little Count of Serreno?

Still, such thoughts; such idle dark ruminations and festering anger, did not answer the main question. What had changed in Anakin? What had he not accounted for? Of course he had felt the boy even from so far away enter into the heart of the Force. What the Jedi called a state of Oneness. However, that had not been cause for concern. Anakin had done so before on an occasion or two. So naturally powerful and attune as he is such was expected. Then came the dark flutter he had also felt had been born on that one off world. That Arda that had since given him another oddity in his life to deal with and seek power from.

His eyes narrowed as that planet crossed his mind again.

"Arda." He intoned. The world was becoming even more of a burden. Breathing into the galaxy this Sauron, and now offsetting his plans. Plans that had been planted as seeds since before Plagueis had met his timely end. Palpatine intuited that he would need to learn from this world. To perchance see if it was in fact the cause for Anakin's lack of surrender to his own long fostered wrath. Wrath and rage he had so easily felt whilst inside the command tower of Grievous' ship. It was still there, and a looming darkness seemed to flow off of the Jedi with a pronounced ebb. Something so small and distant. Like an echo of memory through the Force. In spite of even that, whatever that may be, there was something that had held him back from simply slicing Dooku's head from his wrinkled neck. A setback to be sure. So Palpatine noted, and was so clearly aware of.

He rose from his seat and paced about. Turning away from the entry hall and peering out across Coruscant. From his viewport he could see far into the distance of the vast endless city. The many layers of thickened metal now tinged and marred by battle scars of black and still rising plumes of blackened and choking smoke. His eyes turned right as he focused on nothing in particular.

Yes, a setback. A setback, and nothing more. So, he smiled. Though it was far more a smirk than a true smile of happiness. He had spent over a decade on Anakin and he would not cease his attempts so easily. Palpatine would be ceaselessly ashamed if he allowed himself to be so easily defeated and deterred from a challenge. Was he not the one who killed Darth Plagueis? His 'Master,' who had not slept in years? The man who he made drunk and caused him to sleep? Surely the attempts made before, the assassination attempts so evenly planned and played out by Sidious had failed, and he could've given up then. Yet, he had not. He smirked all the wider, and his eyes narrowed all the more resolute as a vigor entered him. A dark sort of thing.

He was, if nothing else a patient man. It had taken him his whole life to reach the point he was now at. Power was so plainly his, and even more was just out of reach. His grasp was clutched so neatly around every institution and facet of operation, of power within the Republic. The only thing standing in his way was that one Order. A lone Temple upon this planet and those residing within. Yet, he would not be rid of them until he had taken from them their one hope to destroy the Sith. Their Chosen One, for he was now HIS Chosen One.

"All in due time." Sidious, not Palpatine, smirked. After all, there were more avenues yet to tap into. More fears, greater opportunities to break so fragile a Jedi. He had stopped himself but by the skin of his teeth.

A stray thought entered Sidious' mind, and it even made him loose a slight cackle. What would Anakin do should the Jedi be murdered so very openly by an assailant who showed no remorse? What if Grievous was at his mercy? So prolific a Jedi killer as the cyborg General was. What if a terrorist bombed an airspeeder full of little Jedi younglings and mocked their deaths to his face?

Whatever, would the Chosen One do, if someone had taken his precious senator, and their precious little spawn and threatened to kill them? What would he do to such a man or woman? What if they tortured his little family, and let him hear their screams? What if his children were sold into slavery as he had lived? What would become of the slaver? What if his wife was turned into nothing more than a play toy by the hutts? A reciprocal of every gangster's darkest lusts on some grime laden and forgotten world or moon? Would he let that man, that woman, those people go so easily as he had Count Dooku?

He could only imagine to himself. Sidious didn't think so. So, he would wait a little while longer. And he would see if Anakin could be made his apprentice without being so brash and so bold. If not, then Anakin would still come to be his. Just as this galaxy would be.

The doorway behind him slid open and Sidious was sure to hide his grin. Closing his eyes and drawing in a breath he plastered a serene look to him and turned. His robes swaying about him as he did so. Where he was greeted by the sight of Armand Isard. He strode in looking as he always did. Calm and serious with finely kept reddish-orange a uniform added to by high rising and shining blackened boots.

"You requested my presence, Excellency?" Armand came to a full stop and bowed at the hip. Rising back up and clasping hands behind his back quickly thereafter.

"Yes." Palpatine smiled.

"I assume all security footage from around the beginning of the battle has been soundly corrupted?" Armand gave a curt nod, more an incline, of his head.

"We've lost security footage and many security cams from across the government sector, Works, and many other locations, Chancellor. What footage we have is hardly of use. Nothing but bombs, dead citizenry and soldier, or meaningless location shots."

"I see. How very tragic." Palpatine began rounding his chair.

"Have what footage you feel appropriate disseminated to the media. Have what footage you choose be both inspiring and moving. We should shore up support for the war whilst the momentum is at hand."

"Already done, your Excellency." Armand offered causing Palpatine to laugh.

"Of course it is. Fine work Director." Armand again tipped his head in gratitude of Palpatine's open praise.

"What of our guest?" The Chancellor inquired. "Have they behaved themselves?"

"Sensors indicate 'they' left the apartment and returned shortly after you returned to your residence. They remained unmoved for a time. Though a day ago there was a ping. They left the residence and did not return until late last night. Unfortunately, Chancellor, the surrounding cams were damaged by the first round of suicide runs from the enemy vulture droids." Armand reported.

Now that was intriguing. Where could they have gone during the middle of a fight? He could blame the Director for such a failure. However, such was not his fault, and indeed the cams surrounding his guest's living complex would've been slated for scrubbing regardless. So, he nodded.

"Very good. Do keep me apprised if anything should happen now that everything is falling back into order."

"Of course, Excellency."

"Oh, and I would like for your to arrange transportation for our guest."

"Where to, Excellency?" No unnecessary questions. A good quality found in Isard. Indeed in many among his cadre of associates.

"Considering my suite at 500 Republica is in need of renovations I will have to make use of another of my residences." He hummed thoughtfully and Armand made no attempt to ask him where or to insinuate. Merely waited, stoic in look and manner. Palpatine, meanwhile, thought for a moment before an idea did finally cross him. It set another smirk to his face.

"Tell me, was the Palace District affected much by the battle?"

"Some buildings were hit by stray bombs. A significant portion in the southwest annex was crushed underneath a venator that had fallen planet-side. However, if you mean to ask whether or not the "Palace of the Republic" was damaged, then no." Armand smiled, and Palpatine found it humorous in kind when the Director used air quotations to describe that massive complex. Sure that's what its name was...for now.

"Ah very good. I should like to rest there tonight. Of course, not that anyone else should know. I would like some privacy for the rest of the day. To rest and speak freely with my esteemed guest on matters at hand."

"Of course, Excellency. I shall have the appropriate staff made ready."

"Very good, Director. You may take your leave." Wordless Armand bowed at the waist a final time and turned on his booted heel out the Chancellor's office.

That Palace was something Palpatine had desired for many a year to make his official residence. The expansion of it was also on his mind when he allowed himself to fall into bouts of vanity. A glimmering thing that rose highest about all the structures of Coruscant. A feat in and of itself. Tens of thousands of rooms and many towers lining its pyramidal like structure. It was half cathedral and half pyramid fortress. Shining in the finest of durasteel and marble from across the galaxy. Yet, he had not taken up residence there just yet. Valorum had. His inept if true believing predecessor. Though he had to play the part, and Senator Palpatine turned Chancellor was far more humble than that. Though a dinner there in old Valorum's rooms couldn't hurt now could it?!

So, Palpatine sighed and smiled. Once more taking up a seat at his desk and activating a switch along his seat console. He would relax for the rest of the day indeed. Though he did decide to skim over the assault of documents and requests that had flooded his official channels since before the battle and all the way through to now. All of it standard hum drum. Banking legislation, requests for meetings with this Director and that Minister. Some politician from somewhere seeking preferential treatment after being dragged through the courts on corruption charges. Some judges seeking support in their bids for higher judicial office.

He even came across a report notifying him of a delegation arriving from a non-aligned world to the capitol…

---

As the day carried on Anakin and Padmé had managed to find themselves moving about without rhyme or reason. It wasn't too odd to see them together. With all the matters they had helped one another attend to, and all the history they had together the two were seen as something of a power couple. The grand majority knew Anakin to be a great Jedi, so it was platonic. Though from Anakin's own HoloNet spelunking he had found plenty who thought otherwise. Strange little 'fictions' made depicting he and the senator, and one time queen, as having a hidden relationship. Oh if only they knew! They always made him smile and smirk. Especially when reading them and their lurid plots to his wife. Sometimes they could even make her blush with the sordid details given.

Regardless, he and her had endeavored to find their two droid companions and had managed to make their way to the Senate Building from the Executive. Officially Amidala was collecting some documentation from her local office. As well as seeing to the dismal situation involving the refugees that had found their way to the Senate. The last bit was actually true. It didn't hurt that it gave her time to be with her husband of course.

"What happened then?" She asked. Her eyes sparkling and enraptured by him. Whether it be because of his story or by his mere presence...well it didn't really matter to him. Anakin just reveled in her all the same.

"Well the droidekas were dealt with along with those wargs. We had all thought Aragorn had gone over the cliff and died. He did certainly fall over the cliff, but he hadn't actually died, thank the Force."

"Indeed." She agreed. "He seems like a good man. Would be a shame if he were to have died."

"Trying to make me jealous, Senator?" Anakin eyed her darkly. She only rolled her eyes and gently swiped at his shoulder. He smirked back in reply. They couldn't be too overt now. Now that they were moving through the Senate Building that is. They meandered through one random hall. Padmé at least seemed to know where she was going and so he followed. Each corridor frankly looked like the last to him. Red and black colors, with creams and sterile grays here and there. Pillars and statues, paintings, both holographically projected and actual framed works of art everywhere.

"Do go on, Master Jedi." She prompted. Her voice drove him insane. Like listening to the best song he had ever heard. Anakin smiled and obliged.

"Me and Obi-Wan followed the King of Rohan, Théoden, along with Legolas and Gimli to the fortress I mentioned. Helms Deep. It was pretty impressive I gotta say. A rather large wall that ran across what was a sort of a rocky alcove in the mountain range. They called it the 'deeping wall.' The main fortress was along the right looking at it from the outside in."

"Was an army actually on its way then?" She prompted as the two made it to a turbolift which she called.

"We didn't know it at the time, but yes. Ranging around eleven thousand strong orcs. Though these were of a more advanced breed they called uruks. I mentioned them before right?"

"The term yes. Not what it meant." She laughed and it only caused him to beam at the sight.

"Nasty all the same. Whether they be goblins, the little green tinged ones all hunched over and found in caves or mountains, or these uruks who seemed to be just fine in daylight and mean as s'kytri on a spice bender."

"Charming image." She again chuckled and they boarded the now waiting turbolift.

"Thank you, my Lady." He winked and she scoffed. He took it as incentive to carry on with the tale.

"Anyways, me and Obi-Wan waited for whatever was gonna come. I think Obi-Wan was seriously wondering what I had gotten him into then. Though he didn't mention it." Anakin didn't speak up about the fact her right hand had found its way into his left as they stood close to one another. He simply let his fingers roll over hers. She was colder and smooth to the touch. He would do his best to warm her hand as he could.

"Given some time, just a few hours, Aragorn found his way back to us at Helms Deep. He was the one to have seen the army on its way towards the fortress. He looked about on the verge of death, but he seemed more than ready to fight. And, somehow he did." Anakin shook his head at the memory. The man was stubborn on top of all his better qualities. Even if he could and did listen to better advise, Anakin had seen that flare of obstinance from time to time.

"What was it like? Seeing an army like that in that setting?"

"What do you mean?"

"We've both seen bigger armies. More advanced ones, but considering the technological level of this world and the lack of weapons on your and Obi-Wan's part I can only imagine what that must've seemed like. Like a large budget holo-movie." She guessed, Anakin shrugged his agreement.

"Sorta, yeah." The turbolift stopped and opened up onto one of the higher floors. They exited swiftly thereafter. Their hands falling away from one another.

"When you're standing on top of a stone wall with an army as far out as you can see marching towards you with pikes all at attention it does sorta put your life into perspective. It wasn't too hard I guess on encounter. When the battle began due to a misfired arrow. Long story." He stopped her from asking as she cocked a curious brow. "The uruks had brought siege equipment. They had an assortment of ladders and they started climbing up. Me, Obi-Wan, Gimli, Legolas and Aragorn were along the deeping wall with a host of elves."

"When did they show up?"

"Didn't I mention that?"

"No, you skipped that part."

"Huh..." Anakin thought over what he had said. "You're right, sorry. Well long story short...or short story shorter, the Elf King Elrond and the Elf Queen; two separate kingdoms like I said, had sent a sort of detachment. Elves from both kingdoms sent to help us defend as best we could against the uruk onslaught. Aragorn sort of took up the leadership role. One that he was naturally gifted at."

"Sounds like it."

"Alright, I get it already he's great!" Anakin feigned anguish. Padmé scoffed again and waved him off.

"Tell your tale!"

"I will as soon as you stop fawning over my friends." She made a show of rolling her wondrous brown eyes. Anakin smiled, but did as she told him.

"The uruks climbed the ladders and we all had our sections to cover. Me and Obi-Wan did more than our fair share of the fighting. I think us being there helped out a lot. The uruks are mean, but a lightsaber cuts through their armor and swords like any other metal."

"Again, a very charming thought." She interjected.

"Well, you try being surrounded by those rampaging, killing machines and don't take advantage of the tools you have at hand! Plus, did I mention they were several thousand strong? While we were a couple what….hundred? Yeah, a couple." Anakin recalled with a shake of his head.

"Well anyways, all was fairly well. Elves were dying, and I did feel sorry for them. They were our allies, and they were fighting alongside the Rohirrim, and us. The uruks tried blowing a hole in a culvert, but Obi-Wan managed to catch them before they could ignite."

"They have explosives?"

"Well, rudimentary. Black powder. What do they call it...gunpowder? I mean, not on Arda, but several worlds I think began their exploration into explosive technology using similar powder, or materials. The ones that did ignite away from the wall rattled it all the same, and bore gashes in the soil where they fell. Did a number on the uruks too." Anakin explained, and the two of them took a turn right. They were met by a sight of politicians moving about the halls. Politicians and their aids, of course. Troopers also marched around them. Be they on patrol or moving about and relocating refugees, Anakin couldn't tell.

"Like I said everything seemed mostly okay." He added quickly.

"General!" A passing clone interrupted him and saluted. Anakin passed him a friendly smile and dip of his head as they passed by.

"Well, look at the super star." Padmé teased him. He beamed a grin. Only shrugging at her remark. Admittedly soaking in some of the attention sent his way. Especially as the other politicians and soldiers cast him wide eyed glances and shocked expressions.

"Lemme guess," Anakin began in hushed tone. "They all thought I was dead too?"

"Undoubtedly so." Padmé acknowledged. He lowly sighed knowing all too well the storm of attention he'd get in the next few days. Wasn't all that uncommon to be honest. However, being gone for over a year with all the rumors he had heard about and read, he was sure to be bombarded like never before. Still, he did his best to ignore the stares and gawks as he continued to feign a simple and leisurely friendly walk with the Senator from Naboo.

"Well back onto my story."

"Yes, do go on." She prompted.

"The battle was carrying on. Looking to be a long ordeal. The uruks started carrying a ram up the causeway towards the main gate. Not really of too much concern. I'm a little hazy on the exacts myself. It feels like its been ages since that all happened. Regardless," He waved his stray ruminations off.

"Things didn't get bad until the Dark Jedi showed up." Immediately those words soured his expression and whole demeanor. His mind flashing with her face in a litany of expressions. Her yellowed eyes glaring, widening in laughter. Deranged in her mannerisms especially as time went on. Uncaring in her attitude and apathetic to the death and carnage she engaged in or exacerbated. He could feel his muscles tighten. His right hand again gripped, and the servos therein whirred aloud as that same tremor of memory; more a sensation, rippled over it. A power unlike any other having left its mark, like a scar on his being. Its focal point there in his hand. Even though it wasn't the same hand.

"Ani?" He snapped back to attention. Turning to Padmé, Anakin saw the concerned look cross her face. He realized only then how deep into his own stewing disdain he had allowed himself to sink into. He forced a smile to his face then.

"Sorry. Thinking about...her makes me uneasy."

"What happened?"

"A lot." That was a curt understatement.

"More than I could say right now. She came down to the planet alongside Grievous when we all crashed. She had been...working with Saruman. The man I told you about who was a dead ringer for Count Dooku."

"You mentioned him, yes." Padmé nodded.

"Another long story short, she had come with the uruks to Helms Deep. She weakened the gate for the main attack up along the causeway. We dueled. I feel pretty confident in claiming victory in that fight." His smirk that time was genuine.

"I get the feeling a lot more happened regarding this Dark Jedi woman."

"Yes..." Anakin trailed off. Blue eyes setting into a darkened glower towards past experiences and sensations.

"Hey." She ran her hand along his left arm. Her fingers falling along the fabric and sending a chill through him. A good kind of chill. He was snapped back to her, and she continued to cast him worried a look.

"Are you sure, you're okay?"

"Yeah!" Way too enthusiastic. "I mean, yeah. She just...got under my skin that woman. Well, she's dead now, so best to leave the past where it lay." Padmé's eyes remained critical of his words. She had a way of penetrating his defenses. Seeing when he was troubled. Even when he would be capable of fooling even Obi-Wan. Must've been some of that 'womanly intuition,' he had heard about. So, he told himself anyways.

"Alright. If you say so. Just don't shut me out, Ani. Especially if you need to talk about it."

"I know, I know. I won't, I promise." Anakin assured. Casting her another one of his smirks. She seemed less convinced, nevertheless, she didn't press the issue. Which he was thankful for.

After a somewhat awkward and heavy silence the two found themselves passing by a compliment of troopers. Both of them glanced their way. The assorted group were of injured men. All of them showing signs of terrible wounds. Missing limbs, some of them showing eye patches with bloody messes behind the white cloth. Burns were noticeable across their bodies. Some of them stood with the aid of crutches alone. To the front stood what looked to be a Colonel.

"You boys will be transferred to the Zhell General Hospital! Many of its floors have been made available to you sorry lot! I expect you to be on your best behaviors whilst in the vicinity of civies. Got me?!"

"Yes sir!" Despite themselves, and their clearly wounded states they all cried back in response to the loud and abrasively accented commanding clone trooper.

"General Skywalker!" One of them caught sight of him. Anakin passed Padmé an apologetic look. She, for her part simply smiled and shooed him forward as she paused in waiting.

"Troopers." Anakin greeted. "I see we've taken a few licks?"

"A few, General sir!" Their Colonel whipped around and spoke for them.

"These boys suffered their fair share. But, don't let that fool you! They'll be right as a Kaminoan rainstorm come a few weeks in bacta baths and tending to by menders!" The Colonel glanced over shoulder. "Ain't that right men?!"

"Sir, yes sir!" They again chorused as a troupe. Anakin cast them a prideful smile and dipped his head to them.

"You have my full confidence then! I'm glad to see you all alive and well regardless of when you'll rejoin your brothers at the front. Well, if I leave any for you that is." That caught some gruff laughter and the Colonel seemed agreeable to allow it.

"Ah you shoulda' seen them before they got patched up by them offworld healers! Some of my boys here weren't likely to make it if not for these folk. 'Magical' some of them have called it. Can't say I know what they're on about, but if some politicians wanna heal up my men on their own time then who am I to complain?!" The Colonel went on and Anakin could only furrow his brow.

"'Offworld healers?'" He repeated. "Who are you talking about?"

"Oh, that would be me and my Company." Anakin froze. His body turning stiff. That voice echoed in his mind and it made him feel like he had just heard something from memory rather than an actual voice in person. He observed the masked Colonel peer over his own shoulder behind himself. The recognition from the clone ebbing through the Force towards the unseen figure. Indeed the Force had seemed to burst to life in that moment. From a dull static flow to a swirling of warm winds.

With a slowness to him Anakin turned and with face contorted in awe he beheld an old man. Hair white as the snow of Ilum, with staff and robes to match.

"You seem as though you've seen a ghost, my lad." The old man smiled, a chuckle upon his voice. For his part Anakin's face broke into a wide grin and Padmé nearby raised a confused brow to this. Anakin only had one word to cry. Loud enough for the whole hall to hear.

"Gandalf!"

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L's Note: As I've mentioned before I will be rereading this chapter in the next day or two post upload to see what I've missed. Likely a few things and likely some sentences will need editing to flow better. HOWEVER, I always seek to upload ASAP for quicker enjoyment. As usual though, if there are any noticable grammar issues that annoy you, you're free to let me know and I'll add it to a changelog! Otherwise please read, review and ost importantly, enjoy!

Notes: Alright this note is a general one about the debate that went wild in the review section between chapter 9 and 10 here. The debate is fine for the most part. I did encourage it and welcome it. I do, however, stand by the fact that it was beginning to get heated. I say any future debates are still welcome, but if they start to turn south I will shut them down again as I have this time. DO NOT take this to mean I or Lord Exar Kun don't wanna see your POVs and reviews! We do. We just don't wanna see the review section become an ideological battleground.

On that note, I will reiterate that the direction of this story falls onto the chosen path of the author. Whether or not the mythology of Tolkien is integrated into Star Wars or vice versa even is up to him as his decision. What matters he chooses to delve into and I help him to write/edit are his perview. If you do not like the direction he intends to go in then you are more then free to write your own tale. I will not, however, be dictating to him nor take dictation as to how I should or how Lord Exar Kun must write HIS story. Pointers/ideas are welcome. Dictation and demands are summararily ignored. Regardless, I have stated my peace and shall leave it there on this matter. For now.

Oh, and a final note: To the guest asking about homosexuality and Gandalf.

I find your comment strange. Not only because the Valar and Maiar have no right to judge the children of Iluvatar for their sexuality or...well anything, but because that matter is as of thus far outside the realm of this tale. If and when such a discussion appears then whatever character is involved will act appropriately. As their character. Not as a mouthpiece of any ideology or viewpoint of real life matters.

Edit Note: Edited/Updated 9/9/2020