Chapter 5: A new life

By the time they returned to the Lars homestead, it was well into the night. Anakin had managed to patch up his mom's injuries with the bacta spray and patches, though it would still take time for her to heal. He estimated one, maybe two rotations. But before that, he hoped that she and the others would agree to the proposal. Having known how she was. . . He knew she would not leave without the Lars or Beru. When the ship landed, he helped her up and out of the ship.

"Those Tusken will no doubt be back," said Anakin when Owen came out running to help. "Chances are high that they have already noticed you're gone and will try to kidnap you again."

"Anakin makes a point," Owen replied as they walked down the steps and into the kitchen, where Beru and Cliegg were sat at the table, looking relieved. "They are brutal and relentless."

"They are vicious mindless monsters," Cliegg grits his teeth as he takes his wife's hand, not wanting to let go. Tears started well up in his eyes, "I'm so sorry, Shmi. Years ago, I promised you a better life yet. . .," his voice began to break. "I failed to protect you."

"Cliegg," she gave him a soft smile. "I know you and the others did your best, and I never blamed you for what happened." He looked up at her, and she continued, "it's all right now. I'm safe."

"For now, but they'll be back," Beru cautioned. "They got past the sensor markers once, and who's to say they won't try it again."

"The young lady is right," a new voice came into the conversation. Everyone looked to see Mace was also in the kitchen with them. "When we were in their encampment, I could sense their hostility. It flowed off of them in waves. You sensed it, too."

Anakin confirmed by saying, "the waves of anger and hatred coming from them were abundant. For centuries Tuskens have been known to be vicious and attack anyone that isn't their own. They believe this planet belongs to them and view others as trespassers."

Shmi then spoke. "Is that the reason you returned? You sensed I was in trouble?"

"Yes," Anakin gave a slow nod. "For days, I've been having dreams about you being in trouble. I soon discovered they were visions and could feel your pain through the Force." He then took a breath. "After days of meditating, I approached the Council and requested to see if my visions were accurate even though. . ."

"Even though what? You make it sound like this is not normally accepted," Cliegg enquired.

"That's because it isn't," Mace said and took a seat. "The Order does not allow children to meet their birth parents, for they are inducted and raised at the Temple." He explained. "However, Anakin was inducted into the Order much later than what would usually be accepted. Both before and after coming to the Temple, he had formed an unbreakable bond with his mother. Severing that connection would have been disastrous, and despite knowing that attachments were forbidden, he was allowed to see his mother again."

"There was another reason why he was allowed to come, isn't there?" Shmi narrowed her eyes at the bald, dark-skinned man. "Also, who are you? Where is Qui-Gon Jinn?"

Mace paused for a minute to study the woman's expression and had to admit he liked the look in her eyes. "Seems there's no fooling you, as you are far too inquisitive," grunting in amusement before turning to Anakin. "I can see where you get it from."

Anakin snorted, "one of the perks of being a Skywalker."

"That is one word for it," Mace commented before getting back on topic. "There is a lot that needs to be explained, but introductions are an order. I am Jedi Master Mace Windu of the Jedi Order. Nine years ago, during the Invasion of Naboo, Master Qui-Gon and his then-apprentice Obi-Wan fought a Sith Lord named Maul. Qui-Gon was unfortunately killed by the Sith Lord but was later defeated by Obi-Wan. Before taking his last breath, his final wish was for Obi-Wan to train Anakin to become a Jedi."

"Initially, the Council rejected his request at first, but after the Invasion and seeing as it was Qui-Gon's final wish, the Council rescinded its decision. However, there was a problem—Obi-Wan was made a Knight that same day and was not ready for a Padawan of his own. Hence Anakin was given to me. This is a lot to take in, but I will explain the rest in the morning."

Anakin followed Mace as he left the kitchen to return to the ship while the others went to bed for the night. "I could sense her feelings, Master. She will have questions come morning. My mom is stubborn that way."

"That is to be expected, and she deserves the truth," Mace calmly replied. "Your mother has missed you greatly and was ecstatic to see that you have returned. Yet that brings me to another topic," taking a seat in one of the cargo holds chairs. "The other three. Do you think they will agree to leave this planet with her if offered the same proposal?"

". . .It is possible. Though, it cannot hurt to ask. Have you decided on what planet they should settle on?"

"Three options: Naboo, Chandrila, or Alderaan. They're close to Coruscant and will be kept out of danger."

(0^0)

The next morning, Anakin and Mace returned to the Lars homestead, where they sat at the kitchen table with the Lars, Shmi, and Beru. Beru was kind enough to fill some cups of caff and pass them out to everyone. They all sat silently for a few minutes, nursing their drinks until Shmi broke the silence. "What else is there that needs to be discussed?"

Anakin told her everything, explaining what had happened during the aftermath of the Invasion of Naboo and the untimely death of Qui-Gon Jinn at the hands of the now-dead Sith Lord Maul. For the first three years, he felt alone at the Temple, having joined much later than the other Padawans; despite proving his worth by committing to his studies, he had ultimately felt that he had abandoned his mother. From there, he explained what life had been like since Mace had adopted him as a son.

"Thank you, Master Windu, for looking after Ani, as I'm sure it must have been a challenge for you." Shmi gave him a grateful smile.

"There is no reason to be formal," he raised a hand. "You can call me Mace, as only Anakin has to call me Master since I'm teaching and am responsible for him. Also, it was a challenge. There were times when he would make it difficult for me."

"Someone had to keep you on your toes, and I was not that bad," Anakin said with a cheeky smile.

"If I still had hair, then it would be mostly grey, and you sometimes made me feel old," Mace chuckled. "But no, you weren't that bad. You are still a maverick and an independent thinker in some ways, yet I am proud to have you as my apprentice. My son."

"Then please call me Shmi." Her expression then became one of concern. "But what of the Chancellor? I don't know why, but there's something about that man that I just don't trust. I cannot put my foot on it, but it sounds like he wanted something from you."

Mace grinned, "believe me, you are not the only one who felt uneasy about Palpatine. He may be the Head of the Republic, but that does not give him the right to involve himself in Jedi affairs. After a mission involving a dangerous criminal named Granta Omega, Anakin told me about how the Chancellor had been giving him special attention. That was when I finally stepped in and reminded him that Anakin is a Padawan learner of the Jedi Order and that he has no right to involve himself in the business of Jedi."

"Let me guess, he wasn't pleased," Owen voiced.

"Understatement of the century, but that is for later." Quickly composing himself, "the Council has a proposal for the four of you. Mainly Shmi."

". . ."

". . ."

". . ."

"We can arrange for the four of you to be moved to a planet within the Republic; that way, none of you would be in much danger. This will also allow Anakin and Shmi to communicate more in person or through a holo-transmission."

The four other occupants were shocked by the proposal, mostly Shmi, as she would be allowed to be with Anakin again. Her Ani. She turned her head to her son, who gave her a pleading look. While she would like nothing more than to have him back in her life, there was another problem: Cliegg, Owen, and Beru. She loved her husband and stepson dearly, and Beru had become like a daughter to her. Being without them would hurt just as much as when Anakin had left with Qui-Gon to Coruscant.

Cliegg saw the look on his wife's face and said, "this is a big decision as we have lived on this dustbowl for years. Say if we agree. What planet would you have us settle on?"

"This is entirely up to you," said Anakin. "However, anywhere is better than this place."

"He does make a point," Beru agreed. "What planet do you have in mind?"

"There are three planets for you to choose from: Naboo, Alderaan, and Chandrila." Anakin handed them his datapad and showed them the possible locations on where they could stay.

The four came to a decision after taking some time to look through the planets and doing some research about their cities. Cliegg replied after finishing his caff, "the city of Theed sounds nice. But are you sure they will take us in and won't treat us like slaves?"

"Positive. Naboo has been a part of the Republic for over a thousand years, and I can assure you that there is no slavery of any kind there. Queen Jamillia has already been informed and consented," Mace said when Beru gave Anakin back his datapad.

They all looked at each other, and after sharing some nods, the four agreed. "We accept your proposal," Cliegg respectfully bowed his head.

"Yes!" Anakin mentally yelled. His inner emotions flowed off in waves for a second. The visions he saw of her dying at the hands of the Tuskens would not come true, and he would be able to speak with her more often. What's more, she and the others would be on Naboo. Even though he had only been there once, he was sure she would like it and do well there than here. Suddenly another image popped into his head. Padmé Amidala. Whenever the chance would arise, he would think of her. How kind, compassionate, and determined—beautiful she was. He was positive she had grown more so in the last nine years. Quickly pushing those thoughts away, he returned to the here and now. "All right, as you all are packed and have sold this house, then we can—" His eyes snapped open, and so did Mace's.

"I sense it, too," Mace felt some hostility heading their way.

"Stay here. What you do, do not leave until we say so," Anakin ordered. Running out of the kitchen, he followed his Master outside to where the sensor markers were placed and saw a party of Tusken Raiders approaching in the distance. They had indeed returned. Judging by the level of hostility coming off them, the Master and Apprentice could tell they were not happy. Behind the two was Threepio, who came to see what was happening.

"Is there a problem, Master Anakin?" the droid asked in a concerned voice.

"We may have trouble, Threepio. By any chance, do you know how to speak Tusken?"

"Of course, Master Anakin. It is one of the millions of languages Mistress Shmi had programmed into me." He confirmed. "I do believe she—"

"Good, because we are going to try some diplomacy, and we will need you to translate what we say." Anakin cut him off when the Tuskens stopped just a mile away from them, armed with weapons. "Let's get this over with."

The three walked over until they stood a couple of feet away from them. Mace decided to let Anakin take over the negotiations, as it would be a good idea to test his skills in this area. "I am Jedi Padawan Anakin Skywalker. You are trespassing on private property and are not welcome here. This does not have to end in bloodshed. Turn around and leave."

Threepio walked to convey the message to the Chief. The Chief sounded indignant as he spoke back.

"Chief Roorur'krurs says that you and the people in this homestead are the ones who are trespassing, as this area belongs to the Sand people," Threepio replied. "He also says that you look almost like the woman who was in his hut and demands that she be returned to him."

So this was the one who had been torturing his mom. "That woman Shmi Skywalker is my mother and will not be going anywhere with you. The people on this farm are under our protection and will soon leave this planet for good. Leave now." The edge in his voice held a slight amount of anger. He had to keep his anger in check, but that was easier said than done, as he never liked the Tuskens, for they had attacked several villages in the past and for what they did to his mom. Taking several breaths, he managed to squash down his anger.

After Threepio delivered the message, the leader pointed his gaderffii at Anakin, speaking furiously.

"Oh, dear," Threepio returned to the Jedi. "He says that Mistress Shmi belongs to them, and the only way his brethren would leave is if you defeat him in combat. If you win, then they will leave for now. But should you lose, you and everyone in this home will belong to his tribe to do as they see fit."

Anakin glared at the Tusken Chief, as did Mace. This bargain was not a good one. If he manages to defeat the tribal leader and they leave. Then what is to stop them from returning? On the other hand, if he loses, then everyone will be brutally tortured and later killed. Stealing a glance at his Master, Mace gave him a curt nod.

Releasing a breath, "fine. If it will get them to leave, then so be it." He unclipped his saber from his belt, tossing it to Windu as one of the Tuskens handed him a gaderffii stick. 3PO delivered the message and was pushed away by the Chief, who twirled his stick before taking a stance. Doing the same, Anakin stood in a ready position.

The two then began to circle each other, then without warning, the Tusken grunted and attacked with his weapon. In Tusken culture, the one most skilled would be the Chief of their tribe. From his time on this dustbowl as a child, Anakin would hear some of the locals talking about how skilled the Sand People were and that one should be cautious. In addition to being skilled with melee weapons, they were also cheats who liked to use dirty tactics. Luckily, though, Anakin had received hours and hours of quarterstaff training from Windu, Obi-Wan, and the temple's battlemaster Cin Drallig. This was to teach him how to deal with opponents who would use bladed staffs, double-bladed lightsabers, or electrostaffs. Thanks to these lessons and his independent practices, he became quite skilled in this style of combat.

Dodging and parrying the Tusken's attacks, Anakin finally attacked back by sidestepping at an incoming attack and jabbing the club part into the leader's chest, knocking him back. He then pressed the attack by striking at the Tusken, forcing him on the defensive until he eventually kicked his left leg out from under him and knocked him onto his back with a powerful swing to the chest.

Anakin held the spear part of his staff a few inches from the Tusken's face, "the battle is over. Surrender." Threepio translated for him, but the Tusken Chief grunted in displeasure and tried to pull a dagger from his pocket to stab his opponent in his leg. But Anakin reacted to the attack by kicking his hand away and jabbing the spear into the Tusken's chest. The moment he took his last breath and ceased to move, Anakin removed the spear and closed his eyes. "I'm sorry," despite what they did and who they were he had no wish to kill their chief.

He then looked at the other Tuskens, "the battle is won. Take your fallen leader and leave this property."

They grunted to each other until two came forward to collect their now-dead chief and his weapons. Anakin handed back the stick he used, and they, along with the other members of their party, left.

Mace placed a comforting hand on his Padawan's shoulder, gave him a small smile, and returned his lightsaber. "You did what you had to do," he said as Anakin attached his saber to his belt. "Even though you had the chance to finish him when he was defenseless after losing his weapon, you showed him mercy. Had you allowed vengeance to guide your actions, you would have been no different than him or any other tyrant."

"Why do I sense there's a but coming on?"

Mace raised an eyebrow, "but your negotiation skills need a little more work. Nevertheless, I am proud of you," he smiled.

As they and Threepio headed back, Mace received a transmission from the handheld communicator in his pocket. Bringing it out, he activated it, and a holoprojection of Master Yoda appeared. "Yes, Master Yoda. What is it?"

"Trouble there is on Rodia. Senator Farr has requested help in dealing with mercenaries."

Mace cast a look at Anakin before responding. "Does the situation require both my Padawan and I to go?"

"No, only you are required," replied Yoda. Anakin mentally breathed a sigh of relief. "Has Ms. Skywalker agreed to be relocated?"

"Yes, Master," Anakin answered. "My mother, her husband, stepson, and Beru are packing their belongings and preparing to leave. They just have to sell their home."

"Contact the Naboo; I will. Send transportation and an escort; Queen Jamila will." The two Jedi bowed, and Mace shut the communicator off.

The Jedi duo returned to the Lars homestead, "the situation has been handled for the time being," Mace said to the two male Lars who sighed in relief. "Unfortunately, a problem has arisen, and my presence is needed. In my absence, Anakin will join you as a transportation ship arrives to take you to Naboo."

"We understand. Thank you, Master Windu," Cliegg bowed respectfully, which Mace returned.

The Jedi Master turned to his apprentice, "all right, Anakin, I will leave this to you now. You are to escort them to Naboo and help them settle into their new home. Do not do anything else without first consulting myself, Obi-Wan, or the Council."

"Yes, Master," Anakin respectfully bowed.

Mace then pulled out a credit chip, "if they do not have enough, then use this to get them the necessities they need. Nothing else."

"I understand, Master," accepting the chip and putting it in his pocket.

Giving him a look, Mace then said, "may the Force be with you."

"May the Force be with you, Master," Anakin said back, and Mace turned to take his leave. In turn, he went to help the others pack up their belongings. Shmi stood up and, with the help of her crutches, walked over to her biological child, who went to help Owen and Beru retrieve the briefcases. "What is it, Mom?"

"How long do you think it will take for them to arrive? Also, how well do you know the planet of Naboo?"

Anakin thought for a minute, "best guess is about twenty-five hours. But don't worry, I'm sure you and the others will be off this Force-forsaken planet shortly, and if the Tuskens return, then I'll handle it." The determination in his eyes was sounded. "As for Naboo, it is located in the Mid-rim, and I've only been there once, but that was when the Trade Federation was blockading the planet."

Shmi's eyes snapped wide open, "blockade? Was this during the time Master Qui-Gon was killed?" He responded with a sad nod. "Okay, obviously, we have a lot to talk about."

"Then you better get comfortable because this might take a while," he pulled out a chair for her and took the one beside her.

Before he could say another word, Owen and Beru returned, "we're going to head into Mos Eisley and have this property sold. Is there anything we need to know before we leave?"

". . .On Naboo, they use a different form of currency," Anakin informed then added. "Whatever money you get for this home and have on you will need to be exchanged to fit the currency used in the Republic. And it might also be beneficial to take a blaster. You never know what might happen."

"No need to tell me twice," Owen grunted. "This planet is a magnet for dangerous criminals, mercenaries, bounty hunters, etc." He and his girlfriend headed to the garage where the speeder was so they could head into town.

With them out of the house, Anakin explained what happened after he left with the late Master Qui-Gon in great detail. He refused to lie in any form or way, as his mother deserved to know what happened. Hours later, Owen and Beru returned with a credit chip; when they reached the kitchen, Cliegg, and Shmi looked like their eyes were about to pop out of their sockets.

"You certainly have been busy," said a shocked Cliegg. "All you've experienced up to now must have been difficult."

Anakin casually shrugged his shoulders, "there were some difficulties, and it wasn't easy, but that is what being a Jedi is all about. It is our job to ensure and maintain peace across the galaxy."

He then stood up, "come on, we better get you guys packed," he said, leaving the kitchen with Owen.

The next day a Naboo cruiser landed outside the homestead, and the pilot and a few security officers came out. The pilot nodded at the Padawan before him, "Padawan Skywalker, Queen Jamila has sent us to escort you and your family to the Capital city of Theed. Is everything ready for us to depart?"

"Yes, and thank you for your time," he motioned for the Lars's, Beru, and Threepio to board the ship while he and some of the security officers went to collect their belongings and put them in the cargo hold.

Once everything was on board, the pilot started up the ship and took off. The pilot turned around just as they entered the upper atmosphere, and the copilot set the coordinates. "I thought I recognized you," he looked at Anakin, who sat behind him. "You were that same little boy we took with us to Coruscant all those years ago and the one who saved our planet by destroying the droid command ship. I never got to thank you for that, as you saved a great many lives. Senator Amidala has often spoken very fondly of you."

Anakin blushed a bit at the memory of what happened. "I'm just glad that I was able to help. But it was all luck on my part," he humbly replied. Padmé spoke of him? She remembered him after all these years? Clearing his thoughts, he asked. "What's it like on Naboo now? I cannot imagine that it has stayed the same since the last time I was there."

Ric laughed at his inquiry, "you'd be surprised. The Queen herself also wishes to express her gratitude for your services all those years ago."

"That is not necessary. My only objective is to make sure that my family is safe," the young Jedi explained. He then got up and left to check on the others in the passenger area. The first person he encountered was 3PO, "hello, Threepio. Are you all right?"

"Yes, Master Anakin. I am perfectly well, if not a little worried, as I have never flown before," Anakin chuckled as Threepio was still Threepio. "Um, would you perhaps mind taking a look at my systems? The sand tends to get everywhere and scramble my circuits."

"Of course, my friend. Come with me," they went to the passenger area, where Anakin had Threepio sit down, and he asked one of the engineers if he could borrow some tools and if he had any spare parts, special fuses, and some oil.

A few minutes later, the man returned with the items in question, and Anakin powered down the eccentric droid and began working. All the while chatting with his mother, who seemed a little concerned. He could understand why because the last time she was on a ship, she was surrounded by other slaves. "Thanks for not selling 3PO. He might be eccentric. It meant a lot that you kept him."

Shmi gave him a light smile. "I could never sell him. He has been a great companion and help. Plus, you made him, and he is rightfully yours."

"I made him so he could help you. I figured he could give you a hand whenever you needed a break," contradicting her. Removing his leg, he found that sand had definitely gotten into him. Then releasing a breath, "this is going to take a while—there's a lot of sand in him, and I'll have to replace his circuits as some of them are shot."

"Would you like some assistance?" Owen came over. "I may not be as skilled in mechanics as you, but I did help give him coverings and know my way around droid parts."

Anakin eyed him for a minute, then beckoned him to come over, "be my guest. Just try not to wipe his memory," he handed over some tools.

Together the stepbrothers did whatever kind of maintenance they could on the protocol droid: replacing his damaged circuits, removing all of the sand that obviously got in, lubricating its joints, and did their best to clean him up. Anakin was indifferent toward Owen at first. He had no idea he had a stepbrother and therefore found it unsettling to interact with him. But as they worked on 3PO, he got to know him a bit better and could tell he was a hard worker. Owen might have been older than him, but Anakin found himself slowly liking him. After hours of working, they had to stop due to their lack of supplies, but they did what they could.

Owen then reactivated the droid. "Oh, have we arrived yet? How long was I offline?"

"No, we are still in hyperspace." Owen put the rag down after cleaning his hands. "Anakin and I have done what we could. Why don't you try moving around and let us know if you are experiencing any problems."

3Po thanked them and began moving around. A couple of minutes later, he returned and sang, "my, this is wonderful. Moving around is so much easier."

"Glad you like it," Anakin smiled. "Power down for now, and we'll wake you once we arrive."

"Thank you, Master Anakin," taking a seat, he powered down.

(0^0)

The journey to Naboo was smooth sailing, as the pilot pulled the ship out of hyperspace when they entered the system and let everyone know over the PA they would be landing soon. Engaging the landing sequence, Mr. Olié landed and powered down the ship before opening the entrance and lowering the ramp. They were met by the Queen, followed by two of her advisors and a few guard.

"Milady," Anakin took her hand, placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles. "Allow me to introduce my mother, Shmi Skywalker Lars. Stepfather Cliegg Lars, stepbrother Owen Lars, and Beru Whitesun. It is a pleasure to meet you. Thank you, again, for allowing my family to come here."

"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Skywalker, and it was the least we can do for the person who helped save our planet years ago," she returned with a grateful bow of her own. "Master Yoda has informed me that you would be coming. Would you please join me at the palace while the others are getting sorted?"

"Of course, your majesty," he replied before turning his head. "I will join you all later once I'm done. Threepio, your with me," he went to one of the speeders with the Queen and Threepio while the others went to the one behind it.

"Your majesty, would it be possible for me to ask you for a favor?" Anakin asked as he helped her into the speeder.

"Go ahead."

"That man in the hover chair, Mr. Lars, is my stepfather, and the reason he lost his leg is because he and a handful of others went to save my mother from a party of Tusken Raiders after she was abducted. In doing so, he lost his leg. Is there any chance you can give him a replacement?"

She gave him a warm smile and nod, "I will speak to the doctors."

"Thank you."

The driver drove the speeder to the palace, where Anakin escorted her off the speeder and inside, along with her other advisors. They were flanked by the security detail as they entered the throne room where the others were waiting. Normally, the young Jedi disliked talking about politics, but since she had granted his family asylum, he figured this would be a fair trade. So schooling his features the way Mace had taught him, he stood ready to begin the debate that was about to happen.

A couple of hours later, the Padawan walked outside of the palace, relieved that the meeting was over. As it was midday, Anakin headed to the real estate building where he was sure his mother and the others were. When a driver asked if he would like a lift, the young man declined and instead asked for directions. The man complied and told him the nearest real estate agency's location and the quickest way to get there. Then with that, Anakin set off. Though secretly, he wanted to take in the scenery; the city had changed from the last time he was here. However, to be fair, he really didn't do much sightseeing after the battle. It also afforded him the chance to take in the warm, pleasant weather, when in contrast to Tatooine's scorching heat, this was by far a lot better.

Eventually, arriving at his destination, he walked in to see that Owen and Beru were standing off to the side. "How was your meeting with the Queen?" Beru asked.

"It was eventful. Politics are not something I enjoy," responding in an even tone. "Have you guys managed to find a place to live?"

Owen answered, "yes, Mom and Dad will be back soon with an agent so we can get a tour of the place."

"Speak of the devil, here they come, Beru gestured to the people approaching.

A woman in her early thirties was accompanying Shmi and Cliegg. "Hello, everyone. My name is Blaila Gin; if you would please follow me, I will show you the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lars picked out," she led them out but not before giving Anakin a flirtatious wink. This was nothing new to him as he was used to females checking him out; for whatever reason, the ladies found those who were Jedi to be attractive.

The residence she took them to was a fair distance away from the palace. When they arrived, she gave them a tour of the property, showing them the inside of the house, backyard, and garage. The home was just right and was within their price range. Cliegg and Shmi were in agreement and said they would take it. Ms. Gin gave them a pen and the paperwork, and after signing in the designated areas. Owen then gave her the credit chip so she could run it through datapad and then gave it back. "Thank you for your purchase today. Once the paperwork is finalized, the deed to the house will officially be yours in a week or so."

"We appreciate it, ma'am," he shook her hand. "Can you direct us to the closest furniture store?"

"There are a few in Theed," she showed them a holoimage of the furniture stores around the city using her datapad. "Now, I would recommend this one," pointing to one of the red dots above the store. "This is in the shopping district and has everything one could need for a mundane life."

"We appreciate the assistance. Thank you for your time," Owen led her out of the house.

For the next couple of days, Anakin, with the assistance of 3PO, helped the Lars and Beru get settled into their new home and helped them get furniture and any other home necessities they might need. The Queen had kept her word, and the doctors said they could see Cliegg tomorrow morning. While he would have liked to stay so, he could spend some more time with his mother but received a transmission from Mace saying that he was needed back on Coruscant to attend an assignment with Obi-Wan.

"I understand, Master. I will be there as soon as I can," switching his communicator off, he walked into the kitchen to see that his mother was preparing dinner.

"You have to leave, don't you?" She asked without turning around from the chopped vegetables. Her voice showed concern.

He blinked for a minute, wondering how she knew what he was about to say. Thinning his lips, "it's Jedi business," he wrapped her arms around her. "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

Shmi put the knife down, turned around, and placed a hand on the side of his face, "even though you have grown up, you will always be my little boy. I love you, Ani."

"I love you too, Mom," giving her one last hug before pulling away. "Tell Cliegg, Owen, Beru, and 3PO I said goodbye," then, with a nod from her, he left the kitchen and exited the house. Unlike all those years ago when he left with the Jedi, this did not fill her with any sadness as she knew he would be all right and did not have to worry about never seeing him again. Plus, she now had a way of keeping in touch with him. Yes, Shmi was content with her life now. She was married to a great man, had a loving stepson and his girlfriend, and, more importantly, had Ani back in her life.

Later that day at the Palace, Queen Jamila sat in the throne room with her advisors, awaiting the arrival of Senator Amidala. Things in the Republic Senate were stirring up as the Senators were debating about the Military Creation Act. Padmé was quite vocal about voting against the Act as it would undoubtedly lead to war. But despite her best efforts, several hundred systems were planning to leave the Republic and join the Separatist movement under Count Dooku. If that weren't enough, Senators and Delegates within the Republic started advocating for the motion to be passed. Jamila and her advisors sincerely hoped such a thing would not occur, as war would destroy them. Moreover, Governor Sio Bibble was positive that Nute Gunray, the Viceroy of the Trade Federation, would secretly align with the Separatists to gain more power and wealth. How he could still be, the Viceroy of the Trade Federation bothered the members of the Naboo Council greatly.

The guards standing by the entrance soon opened the doors after receiving confirmation that the Senator had arrived. Everyone smiled when Padmé walked into the throne room and went to the center of the room. "Senator Amidala, thank you for coming today. How are things progressing in the Senate?"

"The honor is mine, your majesty," she bowed respectfully at the Queen. "Unfortunately, things in the Republic Senate are becoming more difficult. A handful of Senators have already left to join the Confederacy of Independent Systems. If things continue to deteriorate, then I fear war will soon be upon us," she began. "From what I've witnessed, it is clear that the Senate is divided, with some Senators who want the Military Creation Act to pass so they could line their pockets with additional money. A handful are undecided at the moment. And the others are opposed to the idea of going to war."

"How do the Jedi Council feel about this? Surely with Master Gallia serving as their representatives would be enough to sway the other Senators to vote against the idea of creating an army." Governor Bibble said with hope in his voice.

"She is one of the representatives who has been advocating against the creation since it began. The Jedi don't want the Republic to go to war any more than we do and are hoping to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict before it begins," Padmé informed. The Queen and the advisors sat in deep silence for a few minutes until she broke the silence. "Speaking of Jedi. I heard that one of their own was on Naboo. Anakin Skywalker. You all remember him, the same person who helped us by destroying the Trade Federations Droid command ship. Would it be possible for us to speak with him so he could address our concerns to the Council?" It had been years since she had seen him. The last time she saw him, they were standing on the terrace, looking over the horizon. She kept the japor snippet he gave, and it became one of her most treasured possessions. When she heard he was in Theed, she hoped for the chance to see him again and wondered if he remembered her. She really hoped he did and wondered how much he had changed since the last time she saw him. The idea of being able to see him again brought a smile to her face and filled her with a warmth that hadn't been there for some time.

"Unfortunately, we cannot. He was here only for a few days to get his family settled before he needed to return to Coruscant. He left two hours ago," said Queen Jamila. Padmé instantly lost her smile, though she disguised it with a gentle cough. She had wanted to see him again, but apparently, he was needed elsewhere, probably on Jedi business.

Padmé was pulled out of her thoughts when one of the advisors spoke, "what does Chancellor Palpatine think? Where does he stand on all this?"

Schooling her features, "he says he doesn't want the bill to pass," she replied. "Though I get the feeling he secretly wants this war to come to fruition," she mentally said. Despite being one of her oldest advisors and serving as her ambassador when she was Queen, something about him sent shivers down her spine. Many of the Senators have demanded that he stay in power after his two terms have expired. Something was amidst.

A/N: Shmi, Owen, Cliegg, Beru, and C-3PO have left Tatooine and are now settled on Naboo and now have the opportunity to start a new. What's more Shmi is now complete as the empty void that was once in her heart has vanished now that Anakin is back in her life. This should have happened in the regular timeline. The Jedi Council should have freed Shmi and allowed her to be involved in Anakin's life. It also, baffles me as to why the Lars wished to stay on Tatooine instead of wishing to move somewhere else. Preferably where there was no slavery.

Anyway Shmi was able to spend some time with her now grown-up son and will be able to keep in contact with him. The Naboo royal court is discussing the Military Creation Bill and Padmé is uneasy about Palpatine remaining in office.

Next Chapter: Protect an Angel