Chapter 4: Reunited again
Over the next two years, Anakin would continue to grow as Jedi and a person under the tutelages of Mace and Obi-Wan. In addition to his growing abilities, a Force bond had developed between him and Obi-Wan after the battle on Raxus Secundus. Something that surprised the members of the Jedi Council was when he shared what happened when he was on Yavin with Master Antanna and Padawan Thel-Tanis. From that moment onward, Obi-Wan and Anakin deepened their bond and became even closer than brothers. The two made a great team whenever they were sent on a mission together. However, Anakin's bond with Mace was still stronger, with him being his primary Master in the Order. Sure, Mace was strict with him, but he was also fair and allowed Anakin to take the lead in some assignments.
On the distant world of Korriban, Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and Padawan Anakin Skywalker, accompanied by (Jedi Master Soara Atana with her apprentice Darra Thel-Tanis, Siri Tachi with Ferus Olin, and Ry-Gaul with Tru Veld) were all sent on a mission to apprehend Granta Omega and Jenna Zan Arbor. Omega was an exceedingly dangerous individual who had proven to be a serious threat to the Galactic Republic and an enemy of the Jedi Order. In fact, the members of the Jedi Council have decided to take matters into their own hands, viewing his capture as their highest priority after the attack on the Senate building. 21 Senators and 24 aides and guards lost their lives that day.
That is why the Jedi team was sent to Korriban. Thousands of years ago, this Force-forsaken planet had been the seat of Sith power. The tombs of the ancient Sith Lords were there, and it was still a source of the dark side of the Force. It was a place no Jedi wanted to go, but the capture of Omega and Arbor was of extreme importance. Even before they landed on the planet, Anakin could feel how strong the dark side was on the planet, and it sent chills down his spine. To him, the planet was cursed. From the beginning, he felt the mission would be difficult, and he was proven right. The Padawans were taking jabs at each other, which slightly hampered their abilities to cooperate, as the dark energy of the planet influenced their negative traits. They had to face a series of battle droids, a pack of Tuk'ata, and Sith zombies; all to capture Omega, who ran into a tomb in the Valley of the Dark Lords to meet with his Sith Lord benefactor. Adding insult to injury, Jenna Arbor managed to escape, and Tru's lightsaber began to malfunction again.
This had been a growing problem, as this was not the first time that his friend needed to have his lightsaber looked at. It was also why he requested that Tru not be a part of the mission, much to his friend's annoyance. But the Council ignored the request. And in doing so, Anakin saw that Ferus had started to make some adjustments to Tru's lightsaber after a brief battle, telling him to stop. "This has gone far enough, Tru," raising a hand when they were about to speak. "The reason I didn't want you to be a part of this mission wasn't because of your abilities. . .you are a great Jedi Padawan. But that won't matter much if your saber isn't working properly."
"What?" Tru looked bewildered at what he said.
"I wasn't done fixing your lightsaber when we got called into the Council chamber." Anakin turned to Ferus, who fixed him a glare and then looked back at Tru. "However, if you two adjust it any further, there will be consequences."
"You don't know that," Ferus stood up. He did not like Anakin for a multitude of reasons and thought he was too much of a showoff. What's worse, his reputation as being a star apprentice within the Order had diminished two years ago. He was always used to having people like him and talk positively about him, but that changed when Master Windu scolded him for questioning his relationship with Skywalker. Since then, things have not been so easy for him as he has been humiliated by a high-ranking member of the Order. It got worse when rumors started flying, and he was no longer the favorite within the Order. But at least the Chancellor was there to give him guidance whenever he needed it and made him feel important.
Ignoring him, Anakin hardened his gaze at an ashamed Tru. "I am going to give you two options. Either you tell the Masters your saber is malfunctioning, or I do it."
"For once, will you stop trying to be the hero and think about what is at stake?" Ferus glared at him.
"I am. This is for his safety and ours," Anakin said with a slight amount of edge in his voice.
Before Tru could speak, a new voice entered the conversation. "What is going on here?" They turned to see Darra and Masters Tachi, Kenobi, Antanna, and Ry-Gaul standing behind Anakin. Master Gaul looked at the three Padawans before speaking again. "We could sense the tension in this area and want to know what is going on?" Tightening his face.
". . . Tru's saber is malfunctioning, so I was trying to fix it," Ferus said.
"Padawans," Ry-Gaul groaned while looking at Ferus and Tru. "Do you not understand how dangerous that is? Fine-tuning another's saber without checking to see if any adjustments ad has been made prior will result in unintended consequences." Then staring directly at his Padawan. "You and I have had this conversation before. What possessed you to not have the lightsaber checked by Master Hing? He is an expert on the inner workings of a lightsaber and knows how to fix them." The man scolded.
Ry-Gaul motioned for Padawans Skywalker and Thel-Tanis to leave. Siri did not look any happier with her apprentice. Darra grabbed Anakin's arm and whispered, "come on, let's go." He allowed her to pull him away even though he was taller and more built than her. "Are you okay?" She asked when they entered another section.
Anakin knew it was a standard question. "I will be much better once we get off this planet. The dark side is very strong here."
"We all feel it—You did the right thing by stopping Ferus from tampering with Tru's saber." She did not miss the look he gave her when she left with Anakin nor the occasional glances he gave her while in the cafeteria, halls, training sessions, or during missions. She knew he liked her more than just a fellow Padawan. But lately, she had become annoyed with him. "You probably saved our lives."
"We don't know that, Darra," shaking his head. "This planet is fraught with negative energy, and something about Olin's behavior concerns me."
Lifting an eyebrow at him. ". . .Whatever it is. It can wait until after this mission is completed. We need to keep our focus on the here and now." She said, wanting to live in the moment. Then a smirk crossed her lips, "though I am glad that the new training remotes are designed to simulate battle droids. Thanks to hours of practice, the idea of dancing around death seems unnecessary these days."
A smile tugged against his lips, and he shook his head. "If that's your idea of a joke, then it can use some work."
"Brought a smile to your face," playfully nudging his arm. For years he had been her best friend at the Temple. The two would usually spar and test each other's abilities either when using the Force or during lightsaber practice. But more than that, she admired him greatly as he had become more mature and patient; while still an independent thinker, he was still considered a maverick who did what he thought was best even though the orders were wrong. Sometimes she would look back to a simpler time when they were teenagers and would hang out and joke with one another. Everyone knew how close they were. "What say after this mission we go to a club and have some fun?"
This time Anakin laughed, "Sounds good to me." Having an idea of the place she was thinking of.
(0^0)
The rest of the mission became more difficult as the Jedi team needed to adapt their strategy, what with Tru's malfunctioning lightsaber. His Master apparently laid into him on the importance of preparedness and responsibility. Tru understood his friend's intentions as he was only trying to look out for him. Ferus, however, received a harsher reprimand from the masters, especially from Master Antana. The woman spent an hour scolding him for his actions and said the Council would hear about this once they returned to Coruscant. This had left him embarrassed and frustrated as he felt like Anakin had wanted this to happen. For him to get into trouble.
During the later part of the mission, the Jedi had to fight forty or so battle droids (B1, B2, and spider droids). As things were slowly turning in their favor, Anakin spotted a shadow coming from a dark part of the cave. The figure pulled out a blaster; narrowing his eyes, he saw Omega emerging from the entrance with his weapon aimed at an unsuspecting Darra, who turned her back to the man while she was finishing off a few of the droids.
"Darra, behind you!" He cried and ran towards her, using the Force to increase his speed; he tackled her to the ground just as a blaster bolt that would have hit her in the chest hit his left side. Despite the pain he was in, Anakin got back up to his feet with his lightsaber raised. Missing the look of shock in Darra's rust-colored eyes, he stood ready to defend her. Adrenaline surged through his entire being, and using the Force helped curve his pain.
"Ah, yes, Anakin Skywalker. My employer has expressed an interest in you. I wonder how he will react when he learns that it was me who finished you. . . Imagine how he will reward me," Omega laughed. Firing his blaster.
Anakin raced toward him, deflecting the blaster bolts away and returning the last one to Omega, hitting him in the right shoulder. The man howled in pain, and the blaster that was once in his hand fell to the ground. Before he could do anything, the young Jedi used the Force to throw him against the wall. The amount of force used had broken a few of his ribs, and he could taste some of his blood. Another young man had landed before him, preparing to bring his azure-colored saber down and claim his life. However, just when the blade was about to claim his life, a saber intervened to stop it. Looking to his right, he saw a sweating Skywalker standing there with his lightsaber outstretched in his defense. Skywalker had saved him? Why?
"What are you doing? We have to finish him! He's too dangerous to be left alive!" The Padawan said after being forced back.
"Come to your senses, Olin! Our mandate was to capture Omega and return him to Coruscant," Anakin sharply reminded. "Also, in case you have failed to notice, he is unarmed and is no longer a threat. It is not the Jedi way to take the life of a defenseless person. Plus, he might have information about who the Sith Lord is."
Granta reached into his back pocket as the two continued bickering, pulling out an additional blaster. He aimed it at Skywalker. But before he could pull the trigger, his arm was sliced off, and Skywalker had his lightsaber aimed at his face. "What's the matter, Jedi? Go ahead and do it. You know you want to," the man taunted.
"I can see it in your eyes that you want to finish me. Even if you bring me before the Senate, I'll escape and will kill you and whoever else gets in my way. So, go ahead and do it! Strike me down! It is what you were born to do; it is what he andI would do. Well, come on!"
"And that is the difference between you and me," deactivating his lightsaber and reattaching it to his belt. "While the idea of killing you is tempting. . . I won't, as that is not my decision to make. I am a Jedi and won't stoop to your level." He took out a pair of binders and cuffed the man. "You will face justice for your crimes. Now go to sleep," using the Force, the man fell unconscious.
The adrenaline within Anakin soon dwindled, making him aware of the pain he was feeling in his left side. He would have fallen to his knee had it not been for Obi-Wan. "Nice work, Anakin. Come on, let's get you patched up," throwing his friend's arm around him to take some of the weight off his left side.
"Can we get off this planet now?"
A light chuckle from Obi-Wan. "Believe me, you are not the only one who wants to leave this place."
With Granta Omega in their custody, the Jedi boarded their starships and made their way to return to Coruscant.
Master Soara and her apprentice Darra boarded a ship along with Master Kenobi, Anakin, and the still-unconscious Omega. This was Obi-Wan's decision as he felt having Anakin on the same ship as Ferus would have been a disaster. What's more, regarding the latter's behavior toward Omega, he wanted to avoid the possibility of him doing something reckless. In addition, Anakin was right. The Council wanted Omega back alive. If the Jedi interrogated him, they could uncover the Sith Lord's identity and their plans.
The two padawans sat in the cargo hold with their prisoner. "I cannot believe you actually took a shot for me. That is either the bravest or dumbest thing I have ever seen."
Chuckling, he replied. "Looks like you owe me one now. I'll take my payment in the form of a Jawa milkshake."
She playfully smacked his arm, "idiot," rolling her eyes.
A few days later, back on Coruscant, the Jedi team had returned and delivered Granta Omega to the senatorial guards. Where he'll be brought to trial by the Senate and will most likely spend the remainder of his life in prison. That is if the Senate is feeling merciful.
Meanwhile, at the Jedi Temple, Obi-Wan found himself outside the Council Room doors. He tried to clear his mind before he entered. Some days it was difficult meeting so many Jedi gifted in Force-sensitivity at once. The doors slid open. The full Council had assembled. The members all acknowledged Obi-Wan as he took his place in the middle of the room, where he had stood so many times. Noting the expressions of Masters Yoda, Windu, Plo, and Mundi, and sensing the dissatisfaction of the others, told Obi-Wan that they had a recent discussion, possibly about the acceleration of Knighthood.
"Uneasy we are with the conduct of the two Padawans, Ferus Olin and Tru Veld," Yoda said.
Adi Gallia nodded. "We have reconsidered our decision to speed up the trials for chosen Padawans. We fear we put too much pressure on them." Obi-Wan mentally sucked in a breath when she said they rescinded their decision for the Padawans to be elevated earlier than expected.
"We need additional Jedi, it's true," Oppo Rancisis said. "But we see now that we cannot rush readiness."
"Our mistake, it was," Yoda said.
"Mistakes we cannot afford during these times," Mace added, and then said, "We will commend Padawan Anakin Skywalker for his exceptional skills and bravery. But more than that, Anakin showed courage, ingenuity, and proper restraint when Omega was defeated and resisted the pull to the dark side while on Korriban." He had to resist the urge to smile, as he was indeed proud of the boy.
"Where is young, Skywalker?" Asked Ki-Adi Mundi.
"In his quarters with Padawan Thel-Tanis and Padawan Vled," Obi-Wan replied. Then said, "seeing as Padawans Vled is being suspended for a time and cannot leave the Temple. I am allowing her and Anakin to go and unwind at a club later today."
"Worked hard the two did. Earned a chance to relax they have," Yoda said. He then peered at Obi-Wan. "More to say, you have?"
"No, Master Yoda," he said. Then after giving a respectful bow, he left the chamber.
In Anakin's quarters, he, Tru, and Darra were sitting next to the walls. "How long are you on inactive duty?"
Tru released a long sigh. "Five months. Though, I deserve a more severe punishment. The mission could have gone south. . .and any of us could have been killed if you hadn't shown up when you did." His punishment was lighter than Ferus', as his friend got a full year.
"I am just glad we were able to come back at all," commented Darra. "It's a shame you cannot come with us tonight, as we deserve a night on the town." She started giggling.
The young man groaned and took out two pieces of candy from his pocket. He tossed one to Anakin, who unwrapped and popped it into his mouth.
"So, what do you guys think about, Omega? You think he'll give up the identity of the Sith Lord he met?" Darra was curious about who it was the man had met.
Anakin swallowed and then spoke. "Five credits say it's Dooku."
Shrugging his shoulders, "hopefully, we'll find out soon enough. What concerns me is why the Jedi are not allowed to interrogate him."
"That is a bit odd," Darra agreed. Relaxing her shoulders, "but for now, I say we relax and enjoy ourselves—"
"Too late for that," Anakin cut her off. The next second, his door slipped open to reveal Master Ry-Gaul. Immediately, Tru stood up, noting the not-so-pleased expression on his Master's face. The other two Padawans then stood up.
Narrowing his eyes at Tru, "come along," was all he said before turning around and leaving with his Padawan following behind him.
Clicking his tongue, Anakin had to hold back his amusement. His friend Darra playfully slapped him on the arm, trying to give him a look that said do not laugh. Though, it miserably failed as her lips formed a smile and could not contain her amusement. "Someone's in trouble. I do not envy him right now."
"Still lucky as his Master will be somewhat lenient with him. If he had Mace, then I doubt he'd be able to last for long," involuntarily shuddering as he remembered the scolding he would sometimes get from his Master. "We still have two hours before we head out. Let's go outside and enjoy ourselves."
Agreeing with him, she followed behind as they left his quarters.
(0^0)
Four months later, a few disasters occurred after the mission on Korriban. Two guards found him dead in his cell the day before Omega could be tried before the full Senate. That did not go well with the Senators nor the Jedi Council, as both parties demanded that an autopsy be performed. The doctors had discovered that his windpipe had been crushed, then when asked how this had happened, they found some disturbing footage. Though it may have been scrambled, Master Gallia was able to clear it up and was shocked to see that Ferus Olin had used the Force to choke him to death. However, before the man died, he managed to say. "I know. . .who he is. I know the one you seek." That had left the Order with several questions. But two things became clear: Ferus was no longer considered a member of the Order, having resigned two days earlier, and he had turned to the dark side. Evidence that his eyes had bled yellow and additional footage showed that he slaughtered a squad of guards when escaping from the Maximum Security Prison.
No one was more heartbroken than Master Tachi. For a week, she didn't eat or sleep, as the holorecording of what her Padawan had done haunted her. Ferus was like a son to her; despite his flaws, she loved him dearly. It was during that time she blamed herself for not paying attention to what had been happening to him or seeing the darkness within him. Obi-Wan had finally decided to speak with her about Olin, as Qui-Gon went through the same thing with Xanatos. It broke his heart to learn that his Padawan had turned to the dark side and that, despite his teaching, Xanatos ultimately made his own choice. The same as Ferus. Even though it was hard, she would come to accept that her Padawan had fallen to the dark side.
While he did not like his old rival, Anakin was indeed shocked, as were Darra and Tru. Yes, he and Ferus would often clash and compete in different things; however, Anakin did respect him for his abilities. Speaking of young Skywalker, he was currently in one of the training rooms sparring with Mace Windu. The more experienced Jedi Master had been putting him through his paces, in addition to teaching Anakin Forms III, IV, V. Mace felt the boy should learn VI Niman. He began to teach him this style two months before he turned seventeen; it was to teach him how to adopt a more thoughtful approach to combat and deal with certain situations and curve out the weaknesses of the other Forms.
Anakin was panting and sweating profusely as he parried a strike to his midsection and retaliated with a horizontal strike of his own. His muscles were sore and tight from the intensity of the sparring match he was having with Mace. Already he had shed his tunic when they first started as he thought their session was going to be intense and was right. Sweat poured down his upper naked body revealing how much he had changed over the years. Courtesy of his healthy dieting and physical training, he had not an ounce of fat on him. Despite only being eighteen, Anakin stood at 6'2 and was lean and muscular. Sometimes he would catch girls in and outside the Order staring at him. Often or not, they would wink and direct flirtatious looks while eyeing him up.
"You're getting better," Mace said, meeting the saber with his own. This was what Anakin had been working on, making his movements and intentions less predictable. Through hours of independent practice, he became more subtle and cautious in combat. Just when Anakin was about to press the attack with a wide swing, Mace slipped into a defensive stance and maneuvered out of the way of the incoming swing. Seeing that his Padawan had over-extended himself, Mace elbowed him in the back, pushing him forward where Anakin stumbled a little. Then using the Force, he summoned his Padawan's saber out of his loose hand and into his own. "I think we can call it a day."
Deactivating the sabers, he reattached his to his belt and gave Anakin back his with an impressed smile. "You have improved since our last session," he said after Anakin retook his saber and attached it to his belt. Mace then summoned two towels giving one to Anakin and leading him to the benches. "Nearly four hours this time," wiping the sweat off his face.
Anakin groaned and tried to recapture his breath. "I-It fel-t like. . . you were trying. . .to kill m-me a few times." In response, his Master laughed for a bit before composing himself.
"Is everything all right?" A shrewd question. Mace then added. "These last couple of days, you seem tired and distracted."
Looking at his lap, Anakin sucked in a breath. "I've been having nightmares."
Noting the struggle in his voice, Mace pats him on the shoulder. "What kind?"
"Like the one I had about Omega and Arbor attacking the Senate. Though, these were about my mother," said Anakin. "I don't know why I started dreaming about her. I left Tatooine so long ago that my memory of her is almost a blur."
"Dreams normally pass after a day or two. However, what happened at the Senate was no dream, and we were lucky to prevent any more casualties." Mace's voice was neutral. "Mm. Tell me about these dreams. What have you seen?"
"I saw her in pain and later died in a hut."
Thinking for a minute, the Korun Master could see the fear in his apprentice's eyes. "I want you to meditate on this matter for a while, and if these dreams continue, then inform me."
Master and Padawan left the training area after Anakin put his tunic back on. The latter then went to go have a shower and later returned to his quarters. After a nice long shower, the soreness he felt from his training today vanished, but the same couldn't be said for his mind, as he still felt uneasy. What was the meaning behind these dreams? Was this just him being homesick, or was the Force trying to tell him something? He's had visions before in the past, but never ones concerning his mom.
Returning to his quarters, he meditatively sat in the middle of the floor, cleared his mind, closed his eyes, and allowed the Force to move through him.
For the next four days, Anakin had been in deep meditation, trying to find the source of his dreams. Each time he saw his mother in pain, she was beaten regularly and crying out for help. It was on the final day that she begged him to help her. He could feel her pain and anguish; it quickly became unbearable, and he snapped his eyes open, sweating and breathing heavily. She needed him. Visions were often hard to make sense of, but for whatever reason, he knew that with all certainty that she was in trouble. Yesterday he spoke with Mace and requested an audience with the Council after explaining what he's been seeing in his dreams and visions.
That is how he found himself standing outside of the council chamber today. Stilling his resolve, he pressed the button and walked in when the doors slid open. Normally, a chill would creep up his spine whenever he would be in the presence of all twelve Council members, but that was not the case this time as he stood in the center.
"A request you have concerning these visions of your mother, do you, young Skywalker?" Yoda spoke.
Hesitating for a minute, Anakin replied, "yes, Master. For the last four days, I have been meditating, trying to find answers to the visions I have been receiving. At first, I believed them to be nightmares or just me missing her, but after spending the last couple days meditating on the matter, I am now convinced that they were visions and that she is in trouble." This could go either way, and he seriously doubted they would dismiss his request. But he needed to be sure his mom was alright. "I am not asking this out of entitlement or because I feel like I am deserving of this. The Jedi Code forbids attachments, but she was all I ever had before coming here. I just wish to ensure she is safe, and then I can immediately return. Please, I beg of you," fear edged in his voice. "Allow me to go to Tatooine to check on her."
The members of the Council looked at each other like they were having a silent discussion. Yoda then looked at Windu, who looked as calm and stoic as ever. Tracing a finger on his chin, he studied Anakin and could hear the fear in his voice. His request to see Shmi on Tatooine was not accepted in the Order as Jedi were not supposed to have attachments. However, Anakin was not a normal Jedi; having joined much later than what was normally accepted. But in his time with the Order, he's proven himself on several occasions that he can push personal feelings aside. Being his master/adoptive father, he knew Anakin very well. He also knew that his dreams and visions would continue to haunt him.
Bringing his fingers together, he released a short breath. "Wait outside, and we will decide on the matter."
"Yes, Master," Anakin bowed and left the chamber.
". . .Unusual it is for a request like this to be made," voiced Yoda, who then added. "Strong attachment he has to her. All he had before coming here, he did. Understanding the true power of the Force and senses her pain, the Padawan does."
"This is preposterous! To walk the path of the Jedi—One must forgo all attachments to master the Force," a scandalized Oppo Rancis commented.
"I, for one, believe that young Skywalker has earned the right to know if she is all right," said Ki-Adi-Mundi. "Like he said, he knows that a Jedi were not supposed to form attachments and that he had joined much later than expected. Yet, in spite of that, he has proven to be an excellent addition to the Order. One of my seven daughters has a child and has shown to be Force-sensitive and will be joining the Order soon. This Council made an exception for me to help save my race when our people's birth rates were low. So why shouldn't we make an exception to let him visit his mother?"
The generally quiet and reserved Master Tiin soon said. "At first, there was much fear in young Skywalker. Most of it came from leaving his mother, whom he felt he had abandoned. But during his time here and Master Windu adopting him, he's growing into the Jedi, Master Qui-Gon had seen and become a more mature and responsible person. If what he says is true and she is indeed suffering, I fear it may turn him against us."
Shaak Ti then said, "perhaps having her on a world within the Republic and allowing him to speak with her more could be beneficial. For him and the Order." She then turned her attention to Adi. "Master Gallia, you once mentioned that Padawan Skywalker could help change the Order. Do you still believe this?"
Clearing her throat, "I do. Without a doubt, Skywalker has grown since he first came to the Temple. Allowing him to see and speak to her could permanently submit his relationship with the Order and open up more positive outcomes."
". . .Test the tactic," a smiling Kit Fisto said. "We can evaluate how this turns out and, simultaneously, see how it will affect his duties as a Jedi."
They spent the next several minutes discussing the idea of granting Anakin the right to visit his mother and possibly have her move to a planet within the Republic. Master Rancis and Master Piell were against it as this went against their norms; however, the other Masters seemed willing. Everyone then looked at Mace Windu since he was the boy's Master and therefore had the final say on the matter.
"When Anakin first told me about his dreams, I almost dismissed them as simply dreams. . .but after his days of meditation, I can now see that they were visions. Upon his request, he was hesitant to make knowing that it went against the Code. Nonetheless, he decided to ask us instead of running off without consent, which shows tremendous maturity." He paused for a minute, then released a long breath before continuing, "given that his visions in the past have proven correct or have come to pass I do not think we should dismiss this one about his mother. We can have her settle down on one of the worlds in the Republic and rest his uneasiness."
"But before that, we have to make sure that he doesn't lose himself," Plo added. "He may find something there he may not like." Mace acknowledged what he said with a nod.
"Decided it is, then. Have your apprentice return," Yoda looked at Mace.
Then activating his comlink, Mace told Anakin that the Council had made a decision regarding his request and told him to come back inside. When the young Padawan reached the middle of the room, Mace stared at Anakin for a long minute. Studying his body language, micro-expressions, and sensing his concealed emotions. "Padawan Skywalker," he coolly began, "we have considered the request you made of us. Though it goes against the Code of the Jedi, we have come to a decision."
Anakin braced himself for the inevitable response. Mace then said. "However, before you are informed of our decision. We need to know. Can you promise that you will keep your head straight while on Tatooine? You may find something there you may not like." leaning forward with a hard glare, he wanted to hear from the boy himself. See if his intentions were pure and true.
Anakin knew it was a serious question. A valid and important one. "Yes, Master. I give you my word that no matter what happens, I will conduct myself accordingly."
Mace studied him for a moment, then replied. "Your request is. . ." he stopped and gave a pregnant pause, "granted. Gather what you need, and we will leave in a few hours."
His emotions did a one-eighty, and despite the excitement within him, he asked. "We, Master?"
"I will accompany you as an observer," replied Mace.
"Thank you, Master. I am honored by this," he humbly bowed and left the chamber for his quarters to gather his essentials. Thank you so much.
You have earned it. We will discuss the finer points of the mission during the travel. Mace said through their bond.
Hours later, Anakin and Mace boarded an Eta-class shuttle in the Temple's hangar and departed. Sitting in the pilot seat, the young apprentice steered towards a space lane and inputted the coordinates. Once they were clear, he engaged the hyperdrive, and the ship jumped into hyperspace. Tatooine was located deep in the outer rim, so it would normally take three days to arrive. But Anakin had been modifying the ship's engines whenever he had free time. So it should take a day or two at most. Mace peered to his left after sensing his Padawan's concern. "I can sense you're nervous. Take a breath."
"Yes, Master." Anakin took a deep breath. Mace put a comforting hand on his shoulder and smiled reassuringly. "I am just worried we might not make it there in time."
"Be mindful of your thoughts, Anakin. You are focusing on the negative. Remember, the future is always in motion."
"I understand."
Mace then filled him in on the conversation he and the other members of the Council had. Though initially surprised, Anakin composed himself and nodded in understanding. His request would not normally be accepted, but given recent events, his level of maturity, and some of the members felt like this could spark a change within the Order set his mind at ease.
(0^0)
A day and a half later, the Jedi duo's ship entered the system; pulling the ship out of hyperspace, Anakin engaged the landing procedure when they entered the atmosphere and set the ship down in one of Mos Espa's docking bays. Grabbing their cloaks, they disembarked the ship and made their way through town. The planet was as Anakin remembered: dry, hot, and a big sandbox. There were a lot of memories, more bad than good. Banishing his thoughts away, Anakin led the way to the one place where he knew where he could get answers. Watto's Junk Shop. Watto may have been his and his mother's slave Master, but his treatment of them was still better than most slave Masters. Watto was many things, but he wasn't a killer or an abuser like some of the others (well, the latter was not on the same level as the rest).
Navigating through the streets, they arrived at a shop all too familiar to Anakin. There, sitting on a stool near the door, fiddling with an electronic driver on a broken piece of equipment that looked like a droid component, was Watto himself. He recognized the Toydarian instantly.
Watto was clearly not happy as he yelled at a broken droid head and a trio of pit droids who were trying to help in Huttese.
"Greeting, Watto," the blue male Toydarian looked up at two individuals who stood before him. The younger man light-skinned man was tall and looked strangely familiar. "Let me help you with that," he said in Huttese.
Anakin offered, taking the piece of the broken droid from Watto and expertly manipulating it. Watto's bug-like eyes grew big as he watched the person fix the droid like there was nothing easier.
Responding in Huttese. "What? What do you want?" He asked. Upon taking a closer look at the person's belt and the other individuals, he became slightly fearful. "Wait! You both are Jedi!" Pointing an accusatory finger at both of them.
"Whatever it is. . . I didn't do it," his nervousness grew so big that he squeezed the tool so hard his hands became sweaty, and it slipped out of his hand and hit his webbed foot. He groaned and rubbed his foot.
Doesn't seem like he remembers you, Mace said through their bond.
He's about to, Anakin replied. Speaking in Huttese, "I am looking for Shmi Skywalker."
Watto's eyes narrowed suspiciously at the man. Why would a Jedi be asking about his old slave? He cast a look at the much older Jedi before looking back at the one in front of him. Then it hit him.
"Ani?" He asked in Basic. "Little Ani? Naaah!" A light smile appeared on his face.
Anakin's response came in the form of the sound when the small electronic components whirred to life. 'He put it together.' A smile appeared on his face as he placed the droid's head down before Watto.
Hardly anyone could work miracles on broken droid parts, let alone their heads. "You are Ani!" Watto happily exclaimed. "It is you!" He laughed as his wings started beating fast, lifting him from the stool into the air to fly. "You sure sprouted, huh?!"
"Wee-hoo!" Watto cheered. "A Jedi! Waddya know?" His tone then changed into one of seriousness. "Hey, maybe you can help with some deadbeats who owe me a lot of money."
"I am looking for my mother, Watto," stating his reason for visiting.
Flying back a bit, "oh yeah, Shmi," he appeared nervous as he rubbed the back of his head. Hesitantly he said, "uh. . .she's not mine no more. I sold her."
"You sold her?" Anakin narrowed his eyes slightly.
"Years ago," Watto explained. "Sorry, Ani, but you know, business is business, huh?" Offering a chuckle. "I sold her to a moisture farmer named, uh, Lars. At least, I think it was Lars. Believe it or not, I heard he freed her and married her! Can ya beat that?" Chuckling some more.
Anakin shook his head, digesting the information. "Do you know where they are now?"
"Ooh, long way from here. Someplace on the other side of Mos Eisley, I think, mmm." He said, unsure.
Anakin looked at Mace for a minute, who looked back and returned his gaze to Watto. Reaching into his pocket, he took out ten truguts and put them on Watto's stand. "Does this jog your memory?"
"As a matter of fact, I do have the documents he signed. They're in my records. Right this way," he grabbed the coins, put them in his pocket, and led them inside.
Not bad, Mace said as they walked in.
Roughly an hour after looking through the records, Watto showed Anakin the paperwork for Shmi's release. The man who bought or freed her was a moisture farmer named Cliegg Lars. On the paperwork was the man's location. Thanking Watto for his cooperation, the two Jedi left his establishment and returned to their ship. Firing up the engines, Anakin flew the ship up away from Mos Espa to Mos Eisley. It took a few minutes, but after passing a few moisture farms, they reached their destination near Mos Eisley.
"Here we are," Mace said. Anakin grimly nodded and set the ship down on a bluff overlooking the homestead. Shutting down the ship's engines, the two disembarked and headed to the homestead.
The first form that came into view as they walked toward the homestead was a very thin droid. Its weather-beaten dull grey-colored coverings were full of rust and indicated it needed an oil bath. He bent to work on a fence sensor. When he saw a pair of shadows, he jerked up and went to meet them. "Oh, hello." He greeted. "How might I be of service? I am C—"
"3PO?" Anakin couldn't believe his eyes. This was the same droid he had designed when he was a child.
"Oh, um—," hesitating for a minute. The droid then began to shake. "My maker. Master Ani! I knew you would return. I knew it!" He then looked at the unfamiliar person standing next to him. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry, but who are you?"
"I am Mace Windu." Mace introduced himself. "Are either Shmi Skywalker or Cliegg Lars here?"
"Oh, um, I think," Threepio stuttered. "We should probably go indoors." He motioned for them to follow as he led them to the courtyard.
"Master Cliegg! Master Lars! Allow me to present two very distinguished visitors." He shouted
"Good day to the both of you. I am Jedi Master Mace Windu, and this is my Apprentice, Anakin Skywalker," Mace said to the two individuals who came to greet them. "Is there a woman named Shmi Skywalker here?"
"Shmi Skywalker is mother," Anakin added.
"Mine too," said the man. "Well, my stepmother, actually, but the closest thing I have to as a real mother." Extending his hand. "Owen Lars. This is my girlfriend, Beru."
"Hello," Beru said.
"I guess I'm your stepbrother," Owen began after shaking their hands. "I had a feeling I'd be meeting you one day." His eyes didn't waver from the young Jedi he had heard so much about. It was obvious by Anakin's puzzled look that he knew nothing about him.
"Is my mother here?"
"No, she's not," a gruff response was heard. Owen and Beru turned around to the shadow of the house door. All four individuals saw a heavyset man glide over on a hover chair. He had obviously been injured as his bandages seemed recent. One of his legs was heavily bandaged, and the other was missing. "Cliegg Lars," extending his hand. Anakin took and shook the man's hand. "Shmi is my wife. We should go inside. We have a lot to talk about."
The four went inside, where they sat down at the table in the homestead's kitchen. There over food and drink brought in by Beru, Cliegg explained what had happened to Shmi. . . A band of Tusken Raiders had abducted her one morning when she went to pick mushrooms that had grown on the vaporators. From the tracks, she was halfway home when they took her. The disdain in Cliegg's voice was palpable. It was clear that he hated them with a passion. He organized a hunting party to save her, but out of the thirty that went, only four returned. "Those Tusken walk like men, but they're vicious, mindless monsters." Anger mixed with sorrow crossed his face. "This was eleven days ago."
Anakin felt like he had been assaulted with an electro-staff, cringing his teeth and tightening his grip on the chair. He had to take several deep breaths to calm down. Then reaching out with the Force to search for her presence, he discovered her location to see she was still alive but in pain.
Turning his head, "let's go," he said to Mace. Then looked back at the other three, "we will bring her back. That is my promise," the determination on his face said it all.
The two rose from their seats and went to their ship. Once boarded, they went to the cockpit, and Anakin sat in the co-pilot seat, allowing Mace to sit at the controls. Mace could feel the anger rushing off Anakin and found it to be understandable; he couldn't imagine what the boy was feeling. The only thing he could do was send him some soothing comfort through their bond. "I know you're angry and have every right to be. But remember why we are here."
"I know. Vengeance is not the Jedi way," using all his Jedi training to squash down his anger. His mother would not want him to seek vengeance. "I believe I have a way of locating her. I can use the Force to guide us to where the Tuskens are holding her, but it will take all of my concentration. Can you fly us there?"
"Yes," nodding his head. He powered up the ship and took off into the air. "All right, guide me." Anakin closed his eyes and reached out into the Force to locate his mother.
". . .Head southeast," Anakin said a few minutes later.
Mace piloted the ship in the direction, Anakin said. From there, it took a few hours until they arrived at a ridge a hundred feet away from the Tusken camp. Already the two suns had set, and it was now nightfall. Mace had engaged the landing protocols while his Padawan was still deep within the Force. "Are you sure she is there?"
"Yes, I see her. She's strapped to a rack and has been badly beaten." Opening his eyes, "this is a stealth operation. We need to extract her quickly and quietly."
Leaving the ship, they quietly snuck into the encampment. As much as Anakin hated these people, they were not his priority. He came for one thing. Shmi Skywalker. His beloved mother. Silent as shadows Master and Padawan moved from hut to hut, flat against the walls, and belly-crawling across the open spaces until they arrived at one of the huts where Shmi was being held.
Anakin was sure she was in this one; he thus drew and ignited his lightsaber and carved a hole big enough for him and Mace to enter. Kicking it open, they moved inside to see that the place was lit by a fire in the center and a dozen candles. Shmi had almost gone to sleep when she spotted them enter. Her eyes welled up in tears when she saw the one person she had missed more than anything and had not seen in years. "Ani," she whispered. "Ani, is it you?" A thin smile crossed her lips.
"Yes, mom. It's me," he whispered in a barely audible voice. "Hang on, we're going to get you out of here." He removed the straps around her wrist and held her close as tears filled his eyes.
"You actually came back," she said when he pulled away. A smile crossed her eyes as tears filled in her eyes. "Oh, you look so handsome," she rubbed the side of his face with her hand. He bent down to kiss it gently.
"My son," a tear fell down the side of her face as she hoped she wasn't dreaming this. "My grown-up son. I always knew you would return."
"I missed you, Mom," his voice was shaking. So many years had passed since they'd seen each other. "Save your strength."
"I have always thought about you," Shmi replied.
Mace interjected before anything else could be said. "I hate to break up the reunion between you, too, but if we're going to leave. Then we best do it now."
Shmi warily eyed the dark-skinned man. "It's okay. He's with me," Anakin helped her to her feet, but one had been broken. So he carried her out of the hut. "I got you!"
The three stealthily made their way out of the encampment and back to the ship. Thankfully, they weren't spotted. Arriving back at the ship, Anakin put his mom on one of the seats in the cargo hold while Mace went to power up the ship. Grabbing the emergency medikit, he retrieved a bacta spray and a couple bacta patches to dress her wounds. "This may sting," Anakin warned. He got to work using the bacta spray on the many cuts on her body.
"Thank you, Ani!"
"I promised that I would come back to you one day."
A/N: This chapter is longer than I wanted, but it is done. Anakin is growing up and becoming more mature under Mace Windu's tutelage. He will still be somewhat of a maverick but more levelheaded and have better control over his emotions. I did some research regarding Darra, Tru, and Ferus. The first two were Anakin's friends, but the last was a rival, and the two would often compete. Tru really should have done a more thorough check on his lightsaber or reported that it was malfunctioning, and Ferus should not have tried to tamper with it. Darra did not have to die on Korriban. Her death was the result of all three of their mistakes.
Finally, after all these years, mother and son are reunited. Obi-Wan and the Council really should have let Anakin keep in touch with his mother or, at the very least, have freed her. This is one of their greatest failings, and a seed of darkness was planted in Anakin. A boy needs his mother. I know in canon and legend, she died in her son's arms, which wasn't supposed to happen until another year. But not in this story. I have her, Lars and Beru moved off the world.
Next Chapter: A new life
