A/N: Thank you for waiting!
Chapter 19
Savareen, Outer Rim
Crimson Dawn Spice Factory
As the heavy blast doors of the mangled factory slammed close and the resulting deep, hollow rumble rolled through the air, it was equally matched with a burst of heinous, malicious laughter.
"At last! Kenobi! Long have I been waiting for this moment." The creature purred.
His long, black cloak wisped treacherously behind the confident hunter as he deliberately strode leisurely toward his awaiting prey, with shoulders relaxed and his grip tight on his unlit lightsaber. With nowhere to go, the trap sprung flawlessly, the two former Jedi stood cornered before him as he had planned. Like a victorious tooka circling its wounded prey, he had intended to play with his food in earnest.
Obi Wan and Ahsoka cautiously stood shoulder to shoulder next to each other, and as he neared, they instinctively ignited their lightsabers together. Blue and white light hummed brightly in the air cutting through the surrounding darkness with their luminous glow. Both in defensive poses, a natural reaction to their long time foe, with their stoic faces watching him carefully.
This brought a deeply satisfying sneer to the zabrak's face as he savored each and every second of this. "Oh, how I've missed you." He cooed as he replied sarcastically, stopping just out of striking distance.
"I'm sorry to say," Obi Wan started as Ahsoka tilted her head, paying attention to him. A cool and reserved gaze crossed his face and one side of his beard pulled upwards. "The sentiment isn't mutual. I haven't thought about you once since our last meeting, that is until you escaped the Republic Military Prison." Dryly, Obi Wan reflected on his tiredness with their ongoing encounters. If he learned anything from their repeated conflicts, one too many to keep track of for the former Jedi Master liking, he understood the simple mind games Maul loved to play.
Not at all dissuaded by the cutting remark, and actually, Maul was somewhat satisfied by the response as he grinned wildly. "But you did hear about my break out of that horrendous place." Then he stated with accusing eyes as he stood with his chin up, his unlit lightsaber pointed at Obi Wan. "The death of those clones are on your hands, Kenobi. You disappointed me. If you had met me on Sundari like you were supposed to, they would still be alive!" He insinuated and left the accusation to linger in the air.
Narrowing his eyes, Obi Wan wasn't about to take the bait and be stirred by Maul's attempts to upset him. "I was detained at the Battle of Coruscant. I'm sure you are familiar with that event." Obi Wan responded, his voice low and deep as he was reminded of one of the darkest points in the Galaxy's history.
For a moment, Maul actually had to stop and recollect what happened then, but suddenly, everything came back as the grotesque sneer of a grin returned to his face. "Ah, yes. Where Chancellor Palpatine orchestrated his falsified capture." His eyes widen further. "Such an elaborate scheme to rid himself of his current apprentice and laying a trap to lure in his new disciple. Tell me, Kenobi, did you know who he truly was then when Darth Tyrannus was killed? Did you have any inkling of the grander scheme that was being played out right before your eyes, or were you still fooled by the theatrics of your dear Chancellor?" Maul asserted, his voice full of dark mirth.
The former Jedi Master gripped the lightsaber in front of him tighter. "It doesn't matter when we found out about Darth Sidious only that we foiled his plans and rid the Galaxy of his evil taint." Obi Wan responded sharply.
Maul scoffed reflexively. "Darth Sidious." He sneered as he tested the words on his lips. Unlike before, there was no longer any hesitation with openly announcing that name or concerns that the wrong ears could overhear and he rejoiced with the sound of the name on his tongue, knowing it had no worth anymore. "I suppose I should thank you for the part you played in his demise." He peppered, his grin practically savage.
"Sith Lords are our specialty. We'll be happy to take care of you just as we did Darth Sidious." Obi Wan boldly proposed to the zabrak, with a collected expression and his face calm and composed. Just as smoothly, taking advantage of the moment, he nodded deliberately to Ahsoka, indicating they had been waiting for this opportunity. With a soft, delicate step sideways, Ahsoka acknowledged him as she proceeded to take her place.
The epitome of Jedi arrogance.
Hardly offended, Maul could almost laugh at the pompous display and he couldn't be distracted by the typical Jedi insult. For far too long, he had studied his enemy well and knew the former Jedi maybe even better than he knew himself. The time he spent locked up in that dreadful prison on Coruscant had given the vengeful zabrak plenty of time; time to meditate, understand, and ultimately enact his revenge. The master negotiator was so fond of the play of words, so arrogantly confident in his ability to unsettle his opponent, it was this that was the key to his undoing. Foolishly, Obi Wan imagined Maul as an emotionally charged creature of the Dark Side controlled by the urging of passion. Without a doubt, Obi Wan's ignorant lack of insight blinded him, along with the overconfidence that the Jedi's teaching coupled with the will of the Force gave him the assurance he would prevail. A misplaced belief that Maul intended to deliciously dispel soon enough. He caught Obi Wan off guard last time and although he no longer had his brother, Savage, assistance, he was certain with his plan as their previous encounter had only fueled his growing understanding of his adversary. Obi Wan, like all Jedi trained, carried a fatal flaw in their upbringing; their pathetic, caring hearts.
"Sith Lords." Maul spatted out the words, then proceeded to laugh maniacally, throwing his horned head back freely. A very unexpected move, it caused the two Force wielders to halt abruptly in their steps, sharing a confused look, taken back by the odd reaction and Maul continued seamlessly. "I care not for the Sith ways. Only two, a master and apprentice. One to rule and one to crave power. What good did those beliefs do me when he left me for DEAD!" Maul roared the last part in passionate rage as deep anger boiled from the depths of his soul, the rocky cliffs trembling under his fury. "I rose again from my ashes, helped only by my brother and when he knew of my existence…instead of offering an alliance, he attempted to exterminate me as a threat and successfully murdered my brother." His voice wailed in mourning and in memory of the fallen Savage. "And as I had done many times before, I shall rise again. This new Galaxy is BRIMMING with wonderful possibilities." The maniacal grin returning to his face. "Especially with the Jedi out of the way! And now…with your demise, nothing shall stand in my way to finally assume my rightful place."
Curiosity overtook Obi Wan once again as his mind was tickled by the surprising confession. This was not what he expected but he learned enough to be wary of the Dark Side wielder's hidden agenda. He tested the waters out as he asked, "Rightful place? As a Master of your own making? Whatever you have envisioned, we won't allow the Sith to rise again."
Maul laughed again, aware of his enemies' movements and unfazed with being flanked on both sides. The calmness he exuded suggested he might have been waiting for this and knowing full well that Kenobi wanted him to continue ranting, he happily obliged. "My goals are much broader than the narrow minded Sith. Never again, I will serve a master and no one will take away my destiny!" Maul snarled with righteous fury. "I am a zabrak! Reborn by the nightsister's magick on Dathomir. We are one with the Dark Side of the Force. It flows through us like the blood in our veins. Unlike the Sith, we do not attempt to control the Dark Side. We ARE the Dark Side." As he spoke, the air responded to his words, emanating cold threads of darkness around him. With a flourish, he spun his duel sided lightsaber in the air and pointed it defiantly at Obi Wan. "Once I have finally disposed of you, then I can return to my grand plans."
With several careful steps, Ahsoka settled herself in position on Maul's right with her two lightsabers lit, one guarding her front and her shoto behind her, backhanded, in waiting. "Like what you did on Mandalore and the devastation you wrecked on that planet? I won't let you go back there and destroy it again, especially when they've finally pieced themselves back together."
For the first time since this dance began, he directed his attention to the feisty young togruta he had battled on Sundari. "Oh, please!" He scoffs petulantly. "Death Watch and the Mandalorian's petty, absurd, and ancient conflicts are beyond my concerns. For all I care, they can exterminate one another in their ridiculous incessant infighting. It's amazing they haven't done so already." He rolled his eyes in disgust. "They were a means to an end. But even then, they couldn't deliver me the correct Jedi." He sneered in remembrance of their encounter.
A secretive smirk crossed Ahsoka's face as she responded. "The way I recall things. I beat you on Sundari." She grinned broadly in an attempt to shake Maul's ego and keep him talking.
"Only because I let you, child." He cast a placating look. Though his words were calm, he gave away his inner thoughts as he spun his lightsaber in irritation. "I won't make that mistake again."
He grinned a dark toothy grin as he eyed her curiously with his yellow rimmed eyes and Ahsoka found the expression confusing as he focused on her with a hint of something else. Perhaps the zabrak had some respect for her because of their duel but it was hard to tell.
"Look at you." Maul spatted. "Always a pawn in someone's else game. Don't you grow tired of being in the shadow of others?" With an indifferent expression, he glared blankly into her eyes before shaking his head in disappointment. "You left the Jedi Order only to hide again behind your friends. I had thought of offering you a place by my side, once more, so that you can finally grow into your potential." He stopped for the briefest second, dangling the proposal in the air. Naturally, it fell on deaf ears as Ahsoka continued her reserved gaze, unmoved by the suggestion, but Maul wasn't surprised and he continued with disdain. "But that would be pointless! You lack the fortitude to grasp and claim what is rightfully yours!" He laughed darkly. "Will you ever be bold enough to truly forge your own path?" His eyes bore deep into her soul as he taunted. "Or will you always be a shadow?"
Ahsoka's shoulder's tensed as she gripped her lightsabers more firmly. Something in his words hit a nerve and it rattled a deep insecurity she thought she had barricaded away. It made her feel small, but she couldn't let him get to her. Bringing her focus back, she caught Obi Wan's concerned glance before she continued. "Your words and your promises are empty. You've been wrong before." She insisted, "You were wrong about Anakin."
That caused the zabrak to hesitate as he stood a little straighter considering her words. At the same time, he gazed upon the closed double blast doors behind the two former Jedi, and he could sense Skywalker's attention was drawn away, currently assisting the precious slaves he feels so responsible for, out of the burning factory. Fortunately, the former prodigy was too preoccupied to be of any risk of interrupting them anytime soon. Confident of this, he returned his attention to the awaiting togruta.
"It was an unexpected outcome," Maul's voice distant as he spoke. "Rarely does Darth Sidious not foresee or plan for such a scenario. Perhaps this was the cause of his eventual failure? Still, it was such a curious turn of events." He mused pensively. "I suppose your Chosen One did bring balance to the Force." He crooned with dark laughter. "But not as you thought he would. Perhaps a prophecy misunderstood by your proud and pompous Jedi fortune tellers?" He outright laughed now. "Oh, it brought me joy to no end to see the fall of the mighty Jedi! It made sitting, rotting in that disgusting Republic cell much more tolerable." Maul laughed in a deep, steady rumble as he returned the taunting game to the two former Jedi. "But balance is such a fragile thing. Isn't it? You think all those years Palpatine had quietly manipulated Anakin would just disappear once Darth Sidious was destroyed?" He turned to Obi Wan, who couldn't help but feel some discomfort under the zabrak's scrutiny. "How he fed your Padawan doubt and resentment ... right under your nose while you were powerless to stop it. Do you really think he's ok?" He grinned devilishly. "He's as fragile as the balance you currently have. It's only a matter of time before he breaks!"
The accusations hung in the air, and Obi Wan bit back his irritation as he continued maintaining his unreadable face, only betrayed by a light flint of irritation in the Force.
Maul took note of this; the silence was more telling than anything Kenobi could have said. He continued, "For generations, you Jedi sought out the Sith as your sworn enemies, slaying them in the name of peace and justice. How ironic that your order would be destroyed from within. It is in chaos! You do not need the Sith to destroy you. You've done that to yourself! All I have to do is sit back and enjoy the show. I'll enjoy watching you arrogant Jedi destroy each other. Finally, the hypocrisy of your code has been exposed for all to see! There is no longer a veil of ignorance to hide the misgiving of the valiant, noble Jedi. You are just as capable of wrong and as fallible as the rest of us!"
At that same moment, a shrilling crackle broke the air, blue flame burned furiously into the night.
In responsible to Maul's overdrawn monologue, Obi Wan had ignited his blade, tired of the zabrak's ranting. In a familiar gesture, gripping his lightsaber in his right hand, he raised it high above his head, his left hand forward with two fingers in front of him in his signature stance. With a steady gaze set on the former Jedi Master's face, his intense grey blue eyes matching the fury of his blade as they burned brightly in unison with the luminous glow of blue justice.
"You want to end this today, Maul? So let's end this." Obi Wan answered through gritted teeth, emboldened to act. His voice was deep with serious intent. Tired of this verbal banter, he didn't need to hear this from the zabrak.
The zabrak felt his pulse quicken as he smiled his toothy grin, satisfied with Obi Wan's reaction. Then, with a quick flick of his thumb, he ignited his duel lightsaber as the crimson red blades screamed into the night's air. "I have been waiting for you to say that."
Instead of rushing in, Maul felt the Force ripple from behind him. Turning still with the confident smile on his face as he brought his lightsabers up to parry the duel lightsabers shining down on him from above, Ahsoka initiating the first strike.
As planned, Obi Wan rushed in at the same time Ahsoka attacked, lunging forward in an offensive move. The night's air tingled with the vibrations from the clashing of the sabers, punctuated with an occasional frustrated grunt and a sharp shout.
This went on for several minutes as they tested each other. The zabrak was surprisingly nimble and flexible. It was very similar to when Obi Wan last fought him, and he was surprised, considering that time in the Republic prison should have dulled his edge. A dreary realization passed over Obi Wan about the Dark Side wielder. In his ongoing hatred of Obi Wan, his single minded determination fueled his imprisoned body to kept his muscles sharp, ready to duel. That he must have played out battle after battle in his mind so that it would be a well rehearsed choreography of precision when the time arrived. With that revelation, Obi Wan couldn't help but wonder what else he had underestimated about Maul. A part of Obi Wan could appreciate that level of discipline, yet a dark chill overtook him that he was the cause.
Ahsoka dodged as Maul went for her legs, leaping high into the air. Obi Wan took the opportunity to lunge for Maul's shoulder only to be masterfully met with a block from the dual saber.
As they battled, Obi Wan's mind was full of sorrow that this is what the Dark Side did to people-a twisted, blindly focused mind unable to fathom anything else. A part of him wondered, had he not sliced Maul in half, had he not avenged his fallen Master, would he be driven by the same fire as the zabrak? Would he be overtaken by grief and fall to the Dark Side in his despair and anger over his fallen Master's death and craved the endless hunger of vengeance? Perhaps these were questions that he'll never have the answers to and he felt the need to end the creature's torment.
Ahsoka flipped back to a safe distance as she watched Obi Wan and Maul duel. She had only fought him once before but he was as precise and deadly as their last encounter. A formidable foe from the accounts Obi Wan had given her, it seemed his edge hadn't dulled at all. On top of that, unfortunately, it appeared he learned from their last encounter and quickly anticipated her attacks. Strikes she did before were now expertly parred. The zabrak was methodical with a photographic memory of their only battle as he confidently battled not only her but again Obi Wan.
But there was something else to this as they alternated attacking and defending against the dual lightsaber wielder. His warrior's aura was so different and there was a noticeable distinction in his demeanor. A deeper rage and anger, that wasn't there before, fueled his movements to be faster and more powerful. Was this what the Dark Side of the Force excelled at? The sheer power of determination? Pondering this, she had no doubt that it was related to his hatred towards Obi Wan.
Lost in thought, she nearly missed a swing at her montrals almost a second too late as Maul's blade came screeching towards her. She cursed to herself as she brought both her blades up to block the attack from the right, berating herself for the distraction. And because of that, she saw the foot that came for her abdomen too late. Fueled by the Dark Side of the Force, the impact sent the togruta hurling into the solid wall of rock behind her, knocking the wind out as she slumped down. A faint voice in the distance called out. She barely registered the sound of her name being shouted from across the way.
It happened so quickly yet slowly at the same time. With dread, Obi Wan watched as Ahsoka lost a moment of concentration, but that was the opportunity the zabrak needed as he pounced quickly with his patient fury. Obi Wan roared her name, horrified while he stood with the zabrak in front of him. Something was amiss—a perplexing curious thing for Maul to not take the opportunity while she was off guard.
But the bloodlust in Maul's eyes was unmistakable.
It was because of this concern for his dear friend that Obi Wan realized it too late. The devious crime lord was distracting them and splitting them apart but for what reason Obi Wan didn't know quite yet. Then, Maul's eyes flickered from Ahsoka to the wall she leaned over on as he grinned wildly. Obi Wan's eyes followed Maul's down, and with the Dark Side wielder's hands still on his lightsaber, Obi Wan watched helplessly as everything slowed down. Reluctantly, Obi Wan's eyes drifted down to Maul's right wrist containing a comm device. A square red light had been steadily blinking this whole time and he hadn't noticed it until now. And as Obi Wan's eyes widen in realization, he watched as Maul used the Force to depress the red button. Immediately, he heard several blasts go off and before Obi Wan could say anything, the wall behind Ahsoka exploded.
Shock and confusion spread across Ahsoka's face, her body bent over, she was still winded from the gut kick Maul gave her. Turning her montrals upwards, her horrified expression witnessed the rapidly tumbling lethal giant boulders of sharp rocks crashing towards her. The whole wall seemed to have lifted up and over her like a jagged blanket ready to bury her alive.
From that distance, Obi Wan was too far away from her to physically help. Watching as her dazed expression slowly processed her dangerous situation with her hands going up too late to fully call on the Force to shield herself. The situation was a deliberate setup. He could use the Force but then that would take his concentration away from defending himself from Maul, who still was within striking range. Thinking quickly, he could create a Force shield around Ahsoka, buying her the necessary time to protect herself. Still, it would come at a cost to his own protection with his arch nemesis merely a couple steps away from him and eagerly awaiting for an opening. He knew this is what Maul wanted and he knew Obi Wan would choose her life over protecting his own. He knew all of this and still made the same decision because it was the right thing to do.
Raising one hand in front of him, Obi Wan turned his attention toward her, willing the Force to protect her small frame from the falling rocks as he imagined an invisible shield encasing her. In that split second, Maul snarled a toothy grin and took the opportunity. A red hazy of anger blurred the air as he lunged forward at Obi Wan ready to finally taste his prey. Watching as a curtain of stone ricocheted off the Force shield he created, Ashoka finally lifted her hands up, calling the Force herself and holding back as the rest of the wall of rubble tumbling on top of her. At the last second, Obi Wan whipped his eyes back. His lightsaber wielding hand raising up in unison with his gaze as a bright blue wave crossed in front of him to parry the angry blood lust call of the red blade.
But it wasn't fast enough.
As the blades collided and sizzled, the tip of Maul's lightsaber dug deep into Obi Wan's robes. The crackle of the burnt clothes singed the air as the blade bore its way through the layers and his eyes widened from the sudden onslaught of pain. Obi Wan let out a startled grunt, barely able to maintain his grip on his lightsaber with an astoundingly terrifying pain he had never felt before.
It was a beautiful moment for Galaxy weary, half cyborg, half zabrak former Sith.
Reveling in deep satisfaction as he felt the familiar resistance when his faithful lightsaber penetrated flesh, the shift in the human's Force, and the sound of pure agony from his enemy's lips. It was a moment he'll cherish for the remaining days of his life. Finally, after the many painful and tormenting obstacles that kept him from his goal, he overcame them all and persevered until this grand day. All of it was worth it to experience what he felt in the Force currently and he drank it in famishedly.
"No!" Maul heard from a distance. Just as he savored his revenge, Ahsoka managed to free herself from the rubble and raced towards them. He bit back an exasperated sigh as he caught sight of her swinging down at him from above. With a flick of his wrist, he turned off his lightsaber as he stepped away from the limp, impaled form of his enemy. Sparing the least amount of energy, he easily dodged the emotionally erratic Ahsoka as she clumsily landed her strike on the ground, meant more to drive Maul away than actually land her attack. Watching as she twisted her form down on one knee, lifting her dual sabers in a protective shield, as Obi Wan crumbled to the ground behind her. Maul hummed, amused at the pointless display as he switched his gaze to the barely moving form of Obi Wan, feeling his anguish reverberate through the Force. To Maul's delight, Obi Wan's life Force flickered in and out. The pattern in the Force reminded him of another Jedi he impaled almost two decades ago and an ironic grin crossed his red and black painted face.
"How fitting." Maul started, watching Ahsoka attempt to communicate with Obi Wan while keeping a watchful eye on the zabrak. From where he stood, he could see Obi Wan's breath was shallow as he laid there clutching his side. "It is only appropriate that you meet your end the same as your master. You have learned nothing, Kenobi!" The zabrak mocked him relentlessly. "Give your Master my regards in the Cosmic Force."
Still facing the two Force wielders in front of him, he took two steps backward. Enough time had been spent on this dry, awful planet and he was done here. The insistent chirp from his comm was aggravatingly his nerves as he was being hailed by Dryden, probably in a rush to leave because their situation was compromised- their security over the planet breeched. Nevertheless, he was irritated that he couldn't savor the moment more indulgently but it didn't matter. He didn't need to waste any more time. A slow death for Obi Wan being mourned over by those he loved was perfect, as Maul thought pensively. History repeating itself in the most delicious way possible. To know they will feel the same pain he did when his master died. This moment couldn't be more complete. At last, revenge was his! With that, he turned away and disappeared into the shadows.
Ahsoka's head was still spinning, from the rockslide, as she watched Maul slip away, she paused for a moment before being satisfied that he wouldn't return. Reluctantly, her gaze softened into concern as she let out a shuddering breath so heavy it surprised herself. Turning off her double sabers, she promptly swung around to the prone form. "Obi Wan, are you ok?" Kneeling over him, she gently pulled the older man into her lap with all thoughts of pursuing Maul gone from her mind. This was more important.
Breathing heavily, Obi Wan had watched begrudgingly as Maul left. With his energy slowly draining, he fought to compel Ahsoka to go after him but the words died in his throat. As she pulled his heavy body into her lap, he grunted painfully with labored breath and couldn't find the strength to assist her in any way. Obediently, Obi Wan offered no protest when Ahsoka carefully tugged at his Jedi robes to examine the injury. The loose, multilayers of his Jedi robes had shielded his actual body, and it seemed not eating well during his time on Coruscant left him much skinnier than before, and that incidentally may have helped save his life. While Maul did manage to skewer him like a nerf kabob, he miraculously missed the major organs, and the zabrak may have celebrated his victory too soon by assuming he had fatally wounded Obi Wan. Fooled by assuming the situation was an exact replication of when the former Sith had fatally injured Obi Wan's master, Qui Gon, the piercing blade missed its intended target by merely a couple of centimeters.
However, as lucky as Obi Wan was, it still stung mighty painfully as he winced in agony. It left a sizable seared hole in his flank like a disturbing piercing carved into his side. Unfortunately, lightsaber puncture wounds were their own specialty leaving burning, cauterized flesh behind. In locations like Obi Wan's abdomen, the pressure and the weight of the surrounding tissues and organs would eventually push their way through the thinly seared skin and reclaim itself. Ultimately, the puncture wound will collapse and, left untreated, could still lead him to possibly bleeding out. That is, if the shock from the pain doesn't cause him to pass out first.
As Ahsoka examined the wound, the blackened, reeking scorched tissues began to dampen as bloody droplets wept through, his body naturally attempting to fill back the hole that was created. "Obi Wan, we need to get you some help." She stated, unable to mask the concern in her voice and tears filling her eyes. The scent of burnt flesh cinched her nose and it was all she could do to not grimace from the stench.
"I'm fine. It's just a flesh wound," Obi Wan lied with his breath ragged and sporadic and his voice terribly weak. Even his face was a sickly pale color as sweat beaded profusely down his face. Every nerve in his body was alive with searing pain as his heart fluttered out of rhythm. Using his training, Obi Wan focused on his pain, drawing it into the Force, and it seemed to dull the pain, but he was in immense pain, and even with his Jedi training, he couldn't hold out forever. At some point, his body would go into shock if they didn't get him help. He could feel himself becoming resigned in response
It was so ironic, as Obi Wan thought to himself. It seemed that he had found himself in the same situation as his Master and he laughing bitterly in response. It served him right to be so foolish, Obi Wan scolded himself, as he winced from a sudden throb from his side. This whole situation was a giant ruse for Maul to draw him out and he should have seen this from the beginning. Regrettably, he allowed his friends to get drawn into the ordeal, especially Ahsoka, and he shuttered to think if the roles were reversed and she was the one lying there instead of him. No, this was more suitable. No one else should have to suffer for his mistakes. This is for him to take alone and he'll soon join his Master again. Perhaps, the two of them can have a dark laugh about how they each died. Unlike with Qui Gon's death, his only regret was that it was his Padawan's padawan here by his side.
As if hearing his thoughts, in the back of his mind, he felt a rising panic from a familiar force signature.
At that moment, a loud creaking caught the attention of the two figures lying on the ground as they whipped their heads back. Behind them, the durasteel double doors still stood ominous and locked tight by Maul, but a thunderous cracking and rumbling could be heard. Soon the once formidable doors started to fold in on themselves, and without looking at each other, they both knew who was capable of such a powerful display. While it took the combined strength of Obi Wan and Ahsoka to barely crack open the three story entrance, it now bent easily at the will of the Force wielder behind it. Peeling readily like the skin off a jogan fruit, the metal bent and warped backward at the gravitas command, and they instantly crumbled in on themselves, like being sucked through a wormhole, by the sheer intensity of Anakin's desperation. As the doors flew off their hinges, a frantically appearing Anakin scanned the outside looking for what he felt in the Force, unfazed by the magnitude of the feat he just accomplished. When he finally saw them, he rushed over and slid to a stop, crumbling to his knees beside his fallen Master's broken body and his troubled face revealed how much he felt through the Force.
"Obi Wan!" Anakin shrilled, his voice elevated in distress.
Without hesitating, Anakin laid his hands on his Master's body and traced down to the gaping wound. Distracted, the body underneath his fingers tensed and he ignored it as he inspected the area. Dreadfully, it was just as he feared as foreboding sense crept down his spine. The Force screamed loudly for Anakin's attention to rush over to Obi Wan and the desperate nature of urging made him feel like he might have been too late. Worry etched into his eyes as he looked into Obi Wan's pale face, unable to hold back his fears.
Yet, somehow, Obi Wan was oblivious to his friends' concerns for his imminent peril as he met Anakin's worried expression. Mustering the best frown he could do at the moment, Obi Wan ordered Anakin. "Leave me here. Ahsoka can take care of me. Maul is getting away, and if we don't catch him now, we may never get another chance. You need to..." He gasped, unable to finish the sentence. It seemed even talking was ebbing away from his strength. He gulped between breaths, sweat from the pain running down his face like streams of a river, as his grey blue eyes became more distant and empty.
The request was ridiculous and Anakin was appalled by Obi Wan's selflessness that borderline on insanity. Anakin gritted through his teeth as he spoke, "I'm not leaving you! Not when you need my help." He spatted out.
Obi Wan wasn't impressed, the former Jedi groaned and rolled his eyes at the two people in front of him who were too damn loyal to see the bigger picture and understand what was at stake. A tiny part of his heart couldn't help but appreciate the sentiment but he wasn't about to voice that. "Must you always be so difficult?" He peppered and sucked in a breath as a sharp pain shot into his side, his heart skipping a beat, as he returned to releasing his pain into the Force.
Under Ahsoka's arms, she could feel the usually strong body growing weaker and it terrified her. She cried out to Anakin. "Can you help him?" Her eyes were filled with tears but also glimmered with hope.
Anakin frowned at her words. Of course, he wanted to help but he wasn't sure if he could. This was much more serious than the small cut on Leia's head that he healed and he wasn't even sure how he did that in the first place. It was something he didn't understand and even less how to replicate it. This was unknown territory and there was a danger that he could make things worse. He didn't have a teacher or any guidance to help him. But what were his other options? Even if they got Obi Wan back to the shuttle in time, there was no guarantee that the medical assistance there would be able to save him. The medical equipment in the factory was probably destroyed along with the mangled building. Unfortunately, Anakin could feel Obi Wan's life force flickering out. He didn't really have a choice. This was Obi Wan's best shot.
Anakin had to try.
With steadfast resolve, Anakin made his decision as Ahsoka arched a curious eyebrow at his mysterious expression. He flashed her a wry smile as he spoke in a tone that was more confident than he felt. "I think so." Leaning in closer, Anakin adjusted his hands over the wound and shut his eyes tightly, taking a deep cleansing breath before calling upon the Force.
Obi Wan responded instantly, alarmed by the shift in the Force. "What are you doing?" A warming sensation began at his wound and he felt a change as Anakin's hands seemed to melt into his own body. Surprisingly the pain became more bearable immediately.
Trusting Anakin's instincts, Ahsoka reached out and gripped Obi Wan's other hand tightly as she faithfully watched her former Master. Not for the first time, she's personally seen Anakin do things no other Jedi could do. His command of the Force was so great that it seemed to readily bend to his will in a way very few other Jedi could replicate. He was the miracle worker when all hope seemed lost. With a heart full of worry for Obi Wan, she had become closer to him during this mission, and Obi Wan felt like another older brother to her. Instinctively, she knew it wasn't his time yet to rejoin the Cosmic Force. She felt it in her bones and so she prayed Anakin would work another wonder of the Force.
Diving deep into the currents of the Living Force, Anakin followed the decades old bond established with his Master from his time as his Padawan. It was a complicated and dynamic bond that evolved into a trust of brothers who had fought alongside each other, saving each other's lives countless times, professing deep secrets they told no one else and revealed vulnerabilities no one else knew. Through this unique connection, Anakin followed that bond of love forged in their darkest times and strengthen in their happiest times until he felt resistance. He stopped his persistence like waiting at the door. When he did this before, Leia was too young to have the barriers in place in her mind, and even if she did, because he was her father, she also willingly gave him permission. This time was different, and through his mind, he reassured Obi Wan of his honorable intentions. As patient as he could muster, he waited as the barrier slowly and reluctantly came down as Obi Wan opened himself.
Then, it came like an angry tsunami like wave. The pain and anguish Obi Wan experienced were so intense it shocked Anakin and he gasped out loud as his eyes flew open. Through their bond, Obi Wan felt it too and flung his free hand over Anakin's in concern.
"You don't have to do this." Obi Wan said with a worried expression. "I'll make it to the ship." He reasoned out of concern for the implications of Anakin's actions now that he knew what was going on. At the very least, he had an inkling and he remembered skimming the topic one night at the Jedi Temple's library when he curiously explored the ability. Also, that it came with a serious warning at the end, which the younger generation wasn't aware of as it had been centuries since the last true Jedi healer existed. The skill was not to be taken lightly and had dire consequences if performed incorrectly, so it made him worry for the brash, reckless man in front of him who jumped into the unknown headfirst. Obi Wan couldn't forgive himself if something happened to Anakin because of him.
"No. It's ok, Obi Wan. I was just a little surprised." Anakin smiled but not in a reassuring way as sweat started to bead on his forehead and Obi Wan wasn't convinced. Even Ahsoka had a concerned look on her face but before she could speak up, Anakin added quickly. "Let's try one more time," Anakin stated a little more confidently but noticed how Obi Wan's hand still rested tightly on top of his. He sighed, looking into the older man's eyes. "Please, Obi Wan. You have to let me do this. I can't lose you." Anakin pleaded, and he watched as Obi Wan weighed his options in his mind before nodding reluctantly and let go of Anakin's hand. Grateful for his consent, Anakin's shoulders relaxed in response as he smiled. "Thank you."
"I still think this is a bad idea," Obi Wan managed to say in reluctant agreement.
"You always say that, old man," Anakin quipped back.
Still cradling Obi Wan, Ahsoka could feel him slipping away and she whispered, "Anakin, hurry. He doesn't have much time left." She reminded him.
The urgency in her words captured his attention and Anakin's eyes hardened with resolve as he returned his focus. Shutting his eyes, he dived into the Force more quickly this time and once Obi Wan let him in, he braced himself against the pain. Now that he expected it, it wasn't as intense. The sharp pains pulsating off him were still powerful but had a careful edge to them and he could handle it better. He continued asking the Force to surround Obi Wan's wound as he gritted through the sharp pains as he felt it emitting from his own side like he had the puncture wound himself. Though he wanted to open his eyes to see if his own body started to bleed, he bore through it and continue probing the Force.
Behind the pain, through their connection, something else felt different this time and he couldn't pinpoint what. For some reason, the Force didn't dive into Obi Wan's wound like it did with his daughter and he tried to recall what happened with Leia. There was a crucial step that bridged the shared pain they currently had and morphed it into a healing pattern but he wasn't sure what? With the sweat streamed down his face and into his closed eyes, he struggled to stay in tune with the Force, hearing Ahsoka's frantic voice in the background. What was he thinking at the time? He wanted to take her pain away, to make her better, but most importantly, how much he loved her. So he thought of this for Obi Wan.
As if the correct code was given and access approved, the Living Force responded earnestly to his call as he watched it dive deep into Obi Wan's wound. Slowly he felt the warmth under his hands and things began to move and shift. On top of that, he knew it was working because the searing phantom pain on his side dulled. It was an amazing and surreal experience to be a conduit and feel the Living Force flow through him in an indescribable way. It felt like a bright luminous light and so powerful, full of life-giving energy. The sensation was so extraordinary he felt like he could drown in it forever. Through their shared bond, he knew that Obi Wan had felt it too. Then, right before Anakin was about to rejoice he felt the sensation plateau early. The gaping hole under his hands was still very palpable. It was like it was stuck and couldn't progress further.
Panic started to set in as Anakin realized it wasn't enough. In the back of his mind, he heard Ahsoka's frantic voice rising again. Obi Wan was still slipping away. Fear gripped him and Anakin couldn't believe this was happening. Not now, even with the aid of the Living Force, he could still lose Obi Wan. So he thought about how much his mentor, his Master, his brother meant to him and he protested with the Living Force and begged it to save Obi Wan's life. Desperately, he pleaded for it to provide a way. Anakin was willing to do whatever it takes to save him. He just needed to know how. So the Living Force listened and he felt a tug at his own essence, understanding what was being asked of him.
He didn't even think twice, as he let himself go and allowed the Living Force to dip inside him. He felt shards of his life force being stripped from him and drawn into Obi Wan. It was intense, like a void being created inside of him. It wasn't really like the pain he experienced radiating off Obi Wan. As the Living Force drew from his essence, he felt an empty hole that was cold and dark but sharp and prickly at the same time. He didn't dwell on it. It didn't matter. What was important was saving his dear brother's life. On the fringes of Anakin's mind, he felt the glowing sensation again as Obi Wan's signature within the Force brightened. It seemed to work as he felt the pain start to dull and through his mind's eyes visualized the wound closing itself up. Slowly Obi Wan's light grew bright and burned brilliantly from a dim flickering flame into the hot intensity of the blazing twin suns of Tatooine.
Movement from under Anakin's hands pulled him back into his immediate surroundings and he felt the body underneath him shift, hearing an audible sigh. Hesitantly, he opened his eyes and was greeted with a wonderful sight. Obi Wan's eyes no longer held pain in them and the color had returned to his cheeks with a bright smile that cracked the edges of his beard. The same relieved smile mirrored on Anakin's face as the two quickly inspected the area needing to see it for themselves. Anakin lifted his hands carefully as the crusted blood flecked off. Underneath was pristine, unaltered skin and not even a scar was left behind. There was no trace of anything ever breaking the now perfect skin. Both men looked at each other in astonishment. Anakin had done it! The wound was completely and utterly healed just like Leia's forehead.
Just as Anakin was about to rejoice in celebration and finally relax…he felt it.
A strong wave slammed into him suddenly without any warning. It took his breath away and he felt physically exhausted beyond belief. It reminded him of the long campaigns he fought during the Clone Wars, where they were fighting for weeks on end, their bodies and minds pushed to their limits. He leaned backward, bracing himself with his hands behind him. Cold sweat trickled down his skin and he felt himself pale to the same shade Obi Wan had been earlier. Unable to do anything else, he closed his eyes and breathed heavily, a loud humming entering his ears as he felt his skin go numb.
Across from Anakin, Obi Wan was in disbelief. A miracle of the Force occurred, and of course, it was the result of his uniquely gifted Padawan. Whatever happened, whatever Anakin did, not only healed him but revived him so that he felt better than he had in months! The slight grin of wonder blossomed into a full, bright smile only to be cut short by the sudden paling of his brother's face as his jubilee halted from the resulting flicker in the Force. Obi Wan leaned forward, concern drawn on his face. With his hand, he reached out as he spoke, his voice drawn tight with dread and worry, "Anakin…."
Finally, the sensation passed for Anakin. Luckily, the feeling was just a brief moment as it left as quickly as it came. Like reviving from a fainting spell, the color flushed Anakin's cheeks and his sense of hearing returned as he opened his eyes. They slowly adjusted to the worried forms of Obi Wan and Ahsoka, who had reached over to help him.
"I'm fine. I just needed a moment. That took a lot more out of me than I thought," he chuckled wearily with his voice thick and sober. Anakin noticed Obi Wan's brow furrow with his signature worry and waved a dismissive hand. "It's nothing I can't handle," Anakin said softly with a genuine smile on his face.
Obi Wan took a moment to consider Anakin's words and probed into the Force to find his brother's signature solid and vibrant as always. A wide smile broke out on the older man's face. He felt a rumble in his chest, then Obi Wan burst into inexplicable laughter, followed by Anakin's own boisterous laughter, and the two of them just sat there laughing without a care in the world. As a concerned, Ahsoka watched them with a wary eye, fearing the two of them had gone mad.
It was an amazing event the two just experienced. That level of healing from a Force wielder hadn't been done in centuries, and most importantly, it worked. They both felt the connection they shared strengthen even more now. Through the Force, they became more innately bonded to each other, feeling each other on a new level of heightened awareness. They watched each other's breath as if it was their own, their hearts beaten in sync and the Force trembled and throbbed with unknown energy captured by the weight of the moment.
After the two men's laughter died, they seemed to return to a normal state, at least for them, as Ahsoka thought to herself. So she shuffled away from Obi Wan now that he could sit up on his own and skirted over next to Anakin, placing a hand on his shoulder. She smiled proudly at her Master. "Anakin, you did it! You saved Obi Wan." Her voice was full of praise and admiration but she couldn't forget seeing him suddenly pale right after healing Obi Wan and she couldn't let it go. "But at what cost?" Her eyes searched Anakin's in concern.
Anakin took a moment to think before answering Ahsoka. He shook his head, everything about this was new to him and he only understood that he did what needed to be done. "I don't know," Anakin answered honestly. "But it doesn't matter." He continued, meeting Ahsoka's questionable look. He would do it again if he had to. Whatever price he just paid for Obi Wan to be living, he would gladly pay for it again, and the togruta seemed to understand this as she leaned back after giving his shoulder a quick understanding squeeze.
"Ok," Ahsoka conceited. "I'm glad you both are ok."
Then Obi Wan felt a cold draft over his chest and suddenly realized his state of undress. His chest and torso were exposed to the elements, and even though Anakin often walked around shirtless and without a care, Obi Wan preferred to be more conservative. Feeling rather vulnerable in his bared state, Obi Wan sat up and quickly re-arranged his robes to cover himself back up. Once satisfied, having tied his belt neatly, he looked down to the burnt hole in his robes as he delicately fingered the area, thinking pensively.
Obi Wan looked up, Ahsoka and Anakin were teasing each other once again but they stopped when he looked at them curiously while fingering the hole. Then he asked inquisitively. "You said you saw Qui Gon in your meditations before. Is this something he taught you?" He was surprised by the hint of jealousy in his tone.
There was a glint in Anakin's eyes as he smiled heavily and wearily. "From a certain point of view, he might have contributed to it."
After all this time, Obi Wan still hadn't tried to reach Qui Gon, even after Anakin told him about their conversation in detail. It was a mixture of trepidation and reluctance whether or not he could reach him and if he did, what would he say to his old Master? Yet, now he had another reason to reach out to his old Master and he felt a swift and sudden envy for Anakin that surprised him.
Obi Wan bit his lip as he pondered this, then concluded, "You're going to have to teach me how to do that."
This caught Anakin's attention as his energy returned almost immediately and Obi Wan recognized the cocky, half smirk and instantly regretted it. Without missing a beat, Anakin spoke up, his devilish eyes boring directly into Obi Wan's soul. "Oh! This is rich! There's something I can teach you about the Force?"
Obi Wan watched helplessly as Anakin turned to Ahsoka and playfully tapped her on the arm as he pointed at Obi Wan. Anakin's spirited and mischievous nature returning in full strength with his voice warmth and light and full of mirth. "Remember that! You're my witness, Ahsoka. The great and wise Obi Wan Kenobi says he can learn something from me about the Force. Before I was but a learner but now I am the master! Isn't that right, Obi Wan?"
Filled with relief, Ahsoka shook her head at Anakin's theatrics laughing joyfully just because she could and all the while as Obi Wan rolled his eyes in exasperation and regret. A heavy weight lifted off her shoulders as she sat between the two most important men in her life. Another mission was successfully completed; everyone was alive and well to live and joke another day.
She smiled as she chimed in. "It's good to know that things haven't changed between you two."
Anakin grinned at Ahsoka as he answered, "Maybe." Her sentiments were right and wrong at the same time. Something very fundamental did change between him and Obi Wan. There was a deeper connection and strong sense of each other now but Anakin decided he didn't mind it. This was a good thing.
On the contrary, Obi Wan could feel Anakin's thoughts more clearly now and it was a bit startling to the older man that prided himself on keeping his thoughts to himself. This will be harder to accomplish in the future but he could hold that thought for later.
Obi Wan added when Ahsoka was puzzled by Anakin's response. "The Force works in mysterious ways. We are all but learners…"
"That…I can agree with," Anakin replied back quickly.
The three Force wielders sat there in peaceful contemplation, wondering the mystery of the Force and their place in it. Slowly, the Galaxy became more balanced within the Force, with each passing year, then it had been in a very long time and they wondered what else would be revealed to them in this new Galaxy.
Ahsoka perked up as she suddenly remembered something mildly important. "You know…we're not completely finished with the mission yet. There are the slaves that need shelter and medical care and the spice to return to Naboo. Plus, we probably have to explain to the Senate what's been going on here on this planet."
The rationale in her logic was undeniable as Obi Wan and Anakin looked at each other.
The air was still awaiting their decision.
"I believe a moment of meditation can be spared." Obi Wan announced as he laid back down on dusty Savareen ground.
"Yeah, just let me shut my eyes just for a second. One second." Anakin added as he flopped backward, less elegantly onto his back.
The two grown men laid there as Ahsoka sat between them and rolled her eyes exasperatedly. "Some things never change."
A/N: If you are new to this story, I had previously established that healing was a lost art within the Jedi Order in this AU. With their powers declining over time, especially during the Clone Wars, very few Jedi had any sense of healing. The Jedi Healers at the temple relied on the Republic's advance medical care and technology and focused on healing the mind with the Force. So what Anakin did was very profound. As I've stated with this AU, with the Force now in more balance after Darth Sidious death, lost Force abilities are showing up again.
I debated this route for the story for a long time. I went back and forth with having Anakin heal Obi Wan. I even wrote an alternate scenario. In the end, I decided this is what I wanted.
So this is an homage to Qui Gon and to Anakin's mother because it's only fitting that the person with the highest m-count would be able to Force heal. I mean, he's the fricken Chosen One! Now that Anakin has found acceptance and openly embraces his love for his wife and family, in this AU, the resulting peace allowed him to tap more deeply into the Force and be able to use this ability. It's with a profound understanding and appreciation for love that this ability can show up and it doesn't just show up because someone wants to heal someone. There's a certain mastery that Anakin had attained that allowed this ability to manifest. (Ie-all the mediation he's been doing) This is my gift to Anakin in this AU for what he was never given in Canon. If you wanted to read the chapter where he Force healed Leia it's in Chapter 8.
I also think it's also not far off from Canon as Anakin did revive Ahsoka when she was killed by the Son on Mortis. (TCW S3E16) Even if what happened on that planet was subjective, the concept that Anakin can be a conduit to healing was an important takeaway point.
Another point I want to make is that healing comes at a cost and creates a strong bond with the person they healed. It's not a practice to take lightly. I'll let you guys debate how much Anakin "gave" to Obi Wan.
Lastly, I had Anakin easily rip open the blast doors to showcase how powerful in the Force he is. In Canon, we never really get a side by side comparison of how powerful Anakin is compared to other Jedi, just only told that he can do things other Jedi can't. So I thought it'll be neat to have a clear comparison of his power.
The next couple chapters will close up all the loose ends from earlier: Ahsoka arc, Obi Wan's arc (I have a little treat in store!), Retep is still in the story, and finally, Anakin and Padmé's arc will finally be addressed. I'm excited for Anakin's and Padmé's conversation(s).