The Force has many facets. It is a shield; it is a guiding light; it binds all life. It can ebb and flow and it can be a sturdy wall for one to lean on for support. Its soothing touch calms the mind and the reassurance it provides to the spirit is a welcomed solace in an ever-dark galaxy. Those gifted with the ability to perceive it would never part from its embrace, for the Force is the most loyal of companions.
Mace Windu, Master of The Jedi Order, sat in meditative contemplation and dove deep into the vast expanse of the Force in search of clarity. He focused on the Mid Rim world of Naboo: on the people affected by what transpired in its atmosphere, and on the grim fate that befell his fellow Jedi. He wished to erase any doubt, from both his mind and his actions, that he wouldn't reach the best possible outcome; for there should be naught but certainty and conviction in the heart of a Jedi. The Force would always light the path. He remembered how the Force would gently steer him when he sought guidance as a padawan, and how it always warned him of matters of grave import. He remembered how the Force would dissipate all fear, and strengthen his resolve in times of need.
Now the Force felt nothing but nebulous.
As the Master opened himself to the Force and sought its light it instead warped around him. Its gentle veil, once as transparent as a sheet of crystalline water, was now murky and clung to his psyche like a pervasive tar. To peel past the haze was an arduous task and for each layer removed its weight increased. Its voice, once a bastion of assurance, whispered contradictory things and left him wanting. To try and make sense of its jumbled words only made them louder but no less unclear. After yet another session of fruitless meditation, Windu let his focus dissipate and exhaled sharply through his nose in frustration.
"Mindful of your feelings, you must be." The calm counsel of his teacher and friend, Grandmaster Yoda, had Windu open his eyes to regard the small green alien. "Cloud your judgement, they should not."
"I am aware, Master." Windu said then recentred himself in the Force as he let his frustration be swept away to which Yoda let out a throaty hum in approval. "To seek answers in the Force has been an exercise in patience as of late, something I wish would no longer be the case."
He would loathe to admit it but it is true. The clairvoyance the Jedi have relied on for several millennia now failed them, and that troubled the Council greatly. Not that any of its members would outright state that to be true to the Order at large — especially not Windu — which only exacerbated the dire need for steadfast leadership. Regardless, Yoda was both his teacher and the wisest Jedi alive; if there was one to seek guidance in the quizzical aspects of the Force from, it would be him.
"Shrouded in the Dark Side, the Force is." Yoda said as his ears drooped and his cane tapped the deck in a tuneless rhythm. "Why, I can not say. In motion, something is."
"I believe the supposed Sith of Tatooine is one reason as to why." The modulated voice made both Masters turn to regard the new speaker. Master Plo Koon sat in a similar meditation stance: with his back straight, and a tranquil presence in the Force even if his words betrayed a level of unease. "It is possible that our ancient enemy has at last resurfaced."
"The Sith would sooner challenge us in open combat than skitter in the shadows if they had the power to challenge the Order; their hubris would not allow otherwise. Until we learn more as to what transpired we must not draw hasty conclusions." Windu said.
"What plausible alternative is there for the murder of both Master Jinn and his padawan then? Mandalorians? An entirely new threat we haven't been privy to?" Plo Koon said.
"Great distress through his bond, young Dooku felt. Much anger and regret. Qui-Gon Jinn attacked by Mandalorians, unlikely it seems." Yoda said once he shook his head.
Mace Windu held back a retort as he stewed on those words. Dooku had burst into one of Master Drallig's classes and wasted no time in recruiting his friend to accompany him to Naboo as soon as he felt his padawan's demise. The two took the fastest hyperdrive-equipped vessel the Order had available and hadn't even bothered asking for flight clearance before they departed.
A few days later, Dooku sent a transmission to the Council in which he informed them that, upon their arrival, they were met with an entirely deactivated or destroyed Trade Federation fleet orbiting Naboo; the planet's defence force was in disarray; Theed had been declared a no-fly zone; and that they would attempt to link up with friendly elements on the ground to get a more accurate assessment as to what had transpired. In his follow-up transmission over a day later, Dooku firmly requested that Jedi diplomats be sent posthaste to Naboo for the situation on the planet was far more precarious than initially anticipated.
That had been a week ago.
The Senate was unusually reticent to the plight of Naboo, even before the Trade Federation declared their demands met. Only Senator Palpatine seemed to have a proactive stance in his pleas for any actionable claim to be produced against the strong-arm tactics of the Trade Federation so that the Jedi could be dispatched. However, his suggestions were met with the cold indifference of the Senate at large which only issued an empty platitude in response: that a commission be established to validate the legality of their acquisition. Alderaan and other allies of Queen Amidala screamed bloody murder at the implication that what had happened was anywhere close to legal. After sustained pressure, the Senate caved and approved a small Jedi diplomatic envoy to be sent to investigate the potential danger that the re-emergence of their sworn enemy posed.
The accusations left a sour taste in Windu's mouth yet he couldn't help but mull them over; he idly wondered if there was any kernel of truth to them. His mind closed that dark line of reasoning as swiftly as it began. There was nothing to be gained in questioning the integrity of the Republic — his Herd — for he would defend it no matter what. It was one of the core pillars of his beliefs, and, for all its possible faults expounded by naysayers, the Republic was an integral part of the galaxy at large. Prosperity in the galaxy and the Republic's existence were intrinsically intertwined. Its fall would spell the end of civilisation. That was one of Mace Windu's axioms.
"We will have our answers once we speak to Master Dooku and conduct our investigation. I also hope that Knight Vos will glean some insight into the identity of our enemy. For now, let us be mindful of the present; it would seem we have arrived." Windu said and rose from his seat as he sensed the cruiser's leftenant approach their meditation chamber to tell them they were about to leave hyperspace.
When the three Masters reached the bridge and peered outside the transparisteel windshield, they were met with the sight of a substantial array of Trade Federation vessels set up in a tight blockade around Naboo. Windu could hear a petty officer somewhere utter dejectedly that their intel concerning the fleet's destruction was inaccurate. If one with keener eyes paid close attention, one would see how a substantial amount of debris still lingered just beyond the planet's atmosphere and how a number of the ships were amid a hasty patch-up. A battle was indeed fought and the Trade Federation paid a heavy material price for their victory.
Mace Windu narrowed his eyes as he contemplated how peace-loving Naboo had managed to muster enough naval might to repel the first fleet when his thoughts were interrupted by their ship being hailed. The connection was established and the smug visage of the Neimoidian leader of the Trade Federation, Viceroy Nute Gunray, appeared on the holoprojector. He wasted no time in proclaiming that the Jedi ship was now in Federation space and that they must state their business.
In spite of the Jedi's arrival bearing the blessing of Chancellor Valorum — and by extension, the Senate — Gunray still demanded a myriad of concessions before the Jedi were permitted to set foot on Naboo: they were to be escorted by B1 battle droids; they would also be forbidden from investigating Trade Federation matters in regards to the trade agreement, seeing as it was a political dispute and ratified before the Jedi were dispatched; and if the Republic found probable cause that they had violated galactic law only then would their lawyers release detailed accounts of the events.
"I believe those were all your terms?" Mace Windu said while he endured a headache.
"So it is. It's been a pleasure conducting business with you, esteemed Masters." Gunray said with a condescending tone that Windu did not care for.
"Do we have permission to land on Theed then?"
"Yes, yes, we will alert the droids to be expecting you. It would be a shame if the batteries were to flag you as hostile." Gunray said with a grin. Windu ignored it.
"Just one more thing: I've come to learn that two Jedi have come to Naboo ahead of the official envoys and that they've had a hand in supporting some rather uncooperative local elements. I want them off Naboo. This is non-negotiable." Gunray said whereas Windu cocked an eyebrow at this.
"The Jedi are allowed to traverse Republic space unimpeded during peacekeeping and relief efforts. They have every right to be planetside." Plo Koon said.
"You are more than aware that that courtesy is at the discretion of the planet's sovereign and these Jedi have not reported through proper channels. Therefore, they violate our rights as Republic citizens; the Trade Federation no longer condones their presence here." Gunray said and Windu nearly scoffed at this. Plo Koon wished to argue more but Windu put a stop to it with a gentle nudge of the Force.
"Very well; we will relay your order. May the Force be with you, Viceroy." Windu said even if he knew that Plo Koon knew that that was yet another blatant attempt at hampering their investigation. However, the law was clear in this instance and Windu would abide by it.
"See that you will, Master Windu, or else the Senate will hear of this," Gunray said with a pointed look at the Kal Dor Jedi then severed the connection.
With the long and drawn-out bout of negotiations finally drawn to a close, Windu concluded that he did not care for the Neimoidian; he was a soft and pitiful man. A man of weak will that hid behind a blanket of false security bought with wealth and was someone who surrounded himself with sycophants. The only power he wielded was what his dirty credits could afford him, so it was regrettable then that said credits could afford plenty. Even worse still was that the Trade Federation is a part of the Republic, otherwise, Mace Windu would personally remove this interloper from the known galaxy.
The descent through the atmosphere and subsequent landing procedure occurred with no complications. During the short journey, the Jedi entourage appraised the royal capital of Theed and found it surprisingly unscathed. It would seem the bulk of the reported fighting had either been done beyond the city's borders or that whatever skirmish that plagued its streets was far smaller in scale. True to form, they were met by two squads of battle droids at the ready as soon as the ramp to their shuttle opened.
Considering their less-than-warm reception, the Jedi felt it prudent to split up: Master Koon would head to the site of the duel to investigate and speak to the Neimoidians later while Master Yoda, Master Windu, and Knight Vos would reconvene with Master Dooku and Master Drallig. As the one who had the strongest bond of the three, Yoda reached out through the Force to Dooku who let them know where he was.
The three Jedi boarded a Trade Federation transport and cut through the wide boulevards of Theed to their destination. The royal capital was, objectively speaking, an elegant and well-planned city. Every building was erected with care – with reliefs and various ornaments carved by skilled artisans. Colour was vibrant and present everywhere: from the green cupolas that rested atop almost every structure to the abundance of flora and the very buildings themselves. Statues and fountains and arches boasted impeccable masonry adorned with metals that shone in the light. Every sight was a statement of the affluence and culture of its people. A celebration of Nabooian achievement and ingenuity as a people.
Now that Mace Windu was amongst these people, however, he could see the slouched posture many of them bore; or the way their eyes flitted to every shadowy corner; or their hesitance to leave the safe confines of their homes. Within this wonder of a city he could more keenly feel the apprehension and fear that permeated through Theed. A sense of unease and uncertainty, accompanied by worry for someone: their Queen. Hidden underneath it all were also more pernicious feelings such as betrayal and resentment. Whether it was directed at the Queen, the Republic, or the Jedi, Windu could not tell. This darkened cloud that hung over the people robbed the sprawling metropolis of its lustre and deadened the vigour of life.
Windu closed his eyes and breathed deeply as he shielded himself from the turmoil around him.
Eventually, their transport halted before a large two-storey warehouse. Near the entrance stood a middle-aged Human clad in the traditional brown robes of the Order: Master Drallig. He greeted them and informed them that Master Dooku was inside. The three thanked Drallig for his services and kindly asked him to speak to Master Koon to get him on par with the situation and support him in both his investigation and the subsequent questioning. Drallig promptly agreed and bid them farewell then used the transport they arrived in to head to the palace.
The Jedi made their way into the warehouse to find that it had been repurposed into a shelter and field hospital. It no longer held any machinery or inventory, but rather rows of makeshift beds littered the breadth of the space. People of all classes and backgrounds lay upon the mattresses: soldiers, Nabooian civilians, and even Gungans were present. Families mourned the dead; provided support for their relatives that were either disabled or nursing injuries; or asked for the whereabouts of the missing. Yoda disliked the sight and told Windu to go meet Dooku while he tended to the people. Any warmth and hope that the Jedi could provide them in a time of need was their duty to give.
Both Windu and Vos went further into the warehouse and reassured passersby along the way until they reached what looked to have once been a foreman's office. Through the window, Windu could see that Master Dooku stood alongside a couple of officers from Theed's Security Force. They appeared to be discussing something related to the situation in the capital but stopped once the newcomer Jedi stepped through the door.
In the brief lull, Windu took stock of Master Dooku: the man had a regal bearing — which was enhanced by the aristocratic cloak draped over his shoulders — with his back straight and shoulders squared off. He was a tall and imposing figure, taller than Windu even, and looked every bit the powerful Jedi that he was. The fact most of his hair had turned completely white due to age did little to diminish his commanding presence, if anything it lent him an air of gravitas that he expertly wielded. Dooku thanked the officers for their service and dismissed them since he wished to discuss private Jedi matters. The officers showed their professionalism by not objecting, then saluted the group, and left.
"It is good to see you well, old friend." Windu said.
"Likewise. Greetings to you too, Knight Vos." Dooku said and nodded politely to Quinlan Vos, who returned the greeting but remained silent for now.
"I must confess I expected your arrival much sooner following my previous transmission." Dooku said.
"The Senate was hesitant to dispatch the Jedi over a simple trade dispute." Windu said.
"Indeed?" Dooku said. However, despite the flat tone and general lack of facial tells, Windu knew Dooku well enough to feel that he was rather irked by their dismissal of his request.
"They were not convinced that urgency was needed when the situation resolved itself rather swiftly; especially once the Trade Federation announced that the Queen had agreed to sign the treaty."
"Coerced is a more apt description. Members of Naboo's government and the local Security Force have lost all contact with the Queen, her handmaidens, and the Royal Guard ever since Trade Federation forces have taken control of the Palace."
"Was she a casualty of the fighting?" Windu said.
"Doubtful. News of her death would spread quickly whether they wished to keep it hidden or not. Seeing as the Trade Federation has managed to keep the matter remarkably quiet, coupled with the upcoming emergency election scheduled to occur within a month, I must concur with the sentiment of the loyalists and say that the Queen is likely being detained."
"What? Wouldn't an emergency election mean she has been killed?" Vos said.
"Have you not read the new agreement? It goes far beyond the scope of the original. The Trade Federation have all but annexed Naboo into their sphere of influence and the election is called such only in name; the Federation will appoint a new monarch amiable to their goals and pass legislation that greatly benefits their conglomerate. These seem more akin to terms of an unconditional surrender rather than something purely economic negotiated between equals.
"Considering the Queen vehemently objected to the original proposal, the only way I envision her accepting this dismal deal is if the Neimoidians had substantial leverage on her. It is reasonable to assume her disappearance is to keep her under surveillance, ensure the compliance of the people, and minimise the risk of a rebellion. The premature death of Queen Amidala would run counter to those goals." Dooku said with a clinical tone as he held eye contact with Vos throughout the explanation. Vos, for the most part, stood firm but gradually turned sheepish and retreated behind Windu once Dooku was finished.
"That is a very thorough assessment of the current situation, I am impressed by your insight." Windu said.
"To deduce the Trade Federation's goals was a rather trivial matter. I have worked closely with local elements ever since my arrival; they have proven capable of providing both accurate intelligence and the means to navigate the lockdown unperturbed. All they required in exchange was some basic aid." Dooku said and waved off his friend's compliment. Windu narrowed his gaze and looked over his shoulder at the rows of injured civilians.
"It is unfortunate we cannot provide more substantial help to the Nabooians. We are not permitted to interfere in Trade Federation affairs that do not concern the Sith." Windu said as he turned to regard Dooku once more.
"I see." Dooku said as he cocked his eyebrow. He then lowered it and continued, "Master Drallig and I infiltrated the Palace at the first opportune moment to do so and made our way to the last known location of my former padawan. There were signs of a prolonged lightsabre duel and the area was steeped in the Dark Side. I found no traces of their murderer."
"What did you find?" Windu said.
"Only their corpses. Padawan Kenobi had his head severed and his legs showed irreparable tissue damage. Jinn had multiple cauterised lacerations in line with lightsabre-inflicted injuries; a dislocated patella; a shattered trachea; an amputation of his left arm at the elbow; and a perforation clean through the torso that struck the heart. Many of his injuries are indicative that their assailant was a proficient user of Teräs Käsi, an assessment that Master Drallig agrees with. Both were killed instantly."
When Dooku finished his report, Windu felt how Vos' presence in the Force trembled over his words. A layer of grief, indignation, and even anger brewed within the younger Knight. The Master fixed a reprimanding stare at Vos and sent a wave of calm his way. Vos' lips pursed and he swallowed thickly; it took a few moments for him to get his emotions under control. This situation was wholly unpleasant for the Kiffar and Windu knew it, but that could be addressed later – they had a mission to complete.
"Have their lightsabres been recovered?" Windu said.
"Only Padawan Kenobi's. I'm afraid Jinn's has either been misplaced or taken as a trophy. Either way, it is lost to us."
"Bring out Kenobi's lightsabre. Knight Vos, if you would." Windu said as he turned to regard the younger Jedi among them.
The Council was of two minds about bringing Quinlan Vos to Naboo. On the one hand, his unique ability to sense past events through objects with a notable degree of clarity — an ability referred to as Psychometry — could prove invaluable in verifying if the enemy was indeed a Sith, and might yield more concrete leads to help the Order bring him to justice. On the other hand, it was a dangerous ability that trod perilously close to the Dark Side. The user opens up to the Force completely as they immerse themselves into the memories stored within the object, thereby being vulnerable to the full scope of emotions associated with them. Emotions that were often amplified by an order of magnitude when the subject was near death. Should the Jedi falter or be unable to handle this onslaught, they could be consumed by the Dark Side or turn altogether mad.
Windu would have preferred to not let Vos use Psychometry, especially when one considers that he'd bear the brunt of the presence of a possible Sith. However, Quinlan Vos had a personal connection to both Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi: he studied under the Master alongside Kenobi and, through their trials, the three built a close bond. Said bond only strengthened further when Jinn saved Vos' life during a session gone awry. Once news broke of what had happened on Naboo, Vos had all but demanded from the Council that he be allowed to go and help bring some form of closure to two people he held dear.
The safety of the Republic was in jeopardy and Windu could not afford to let an opportunity such as this pass him by.
Dooku went through his personal effects and produced a rectangular box which he opened to reveal Obi-Wan Kenobi's lightsabre laid atop a velvety cushion. Quinlan Vos stared at the cylinder and breathed deeply as he centred himself in the Force to prepare his mind for the use of his ability. He reached out and, as soon as he touched the weapon, the Force broke an invisible dam then rushed into him – his mind was flooded with images and sensations as vivid as if he had lived them. A stream of individual moments of young Kenobi's life rushed past him in a jumbled manner. With great effort, Vos sifted through the memories and reached for the most recent ones. He caught glimpses of anticipation, resolve, and bravery in the face of the enemy. He also felt the rage: moulded, sharpened, and given purpose. The oppressive taint of the Dark Side tempered by discipline and harnessed through sheer will. This was not enough. He needed to know more so he could help his fellow Jedi. He focused more intently. A face still blurred began to form. This was it! Focus. He was so close—
Excruciating pain. A final gasp. The cold embrace of death.
Yellowed eyes filled Vos' mind as they gazed at him with seething hatred, then the tattooed face they belonged to grinned wickedly.
Quinlan Vos nearly yelped as he snapped away from the lightsabre and cold sweat broke on his bronzed skin. He cradled his head with a trembling hand and sought purchase on a nearby desk to steady himself. Windu reached out to help the young man by sending him a wave of comfort and warmth through the Force. The Master of The Order had a deep scowl on his face as he could feel the stampede of emotions that coursed through Vos moments before. It all spanned only a few seconds but the acute spike of the Dark Side that burst forth from Vos was enough to give Windu pause. He could hardly fathom what that must have been like to experience first-hand.
"Pure hatred… I… I have never felt so much fury and malice condensed into a single being before." Vos said in a weak whisper once he calmed down enough to speak after several moments of silence and hyperventilation.
"Do you believe him to be a Sith?" Windu asked as softly as he could and Vos nodded quickly.
"Yes… the eyes. Those molten eyes… they burned bright with the fires of the Dark Side. He embodied it and welcomed its embrace with every breath."
So it has been confirmed then. The Sith had not only returned but revealed themselves. Windu exhaled sharply and glanced at Dooku to make sure he had not misheard it himself. Dooku gave the slightest of nods to confirm that, yes, they both heard it correctly.
"What else did you see?" Windu said once he turned back to Vos.
"He… he is red. And black. A… Zabrak, I think… No name… I'm sorry, I couldn't see much else." Vos said in a defeated tone. Windu placed a hand on his shoulder and gave a reassuring squeeze.
"You have fulfilled your duties well, Quinlan Vos. We could not have learned this without you. Now you must rest. Seek Grandmaster Yoda; he will help you recover." Windu said, then helped Vos to the door and kept his eyes on the retreating figure of the Jedi Knight for a few moments as he gathered his thoughts.
"Where are the bodies?" Windu said to Dooku. He hoped he could gather every possible scrap of information from this mess to better arm the Order against this new Sith threat.
Dooku levelled him with a long look and then bid him to follow. The pair left both the office and the rear exit of the warehouse, then Dooku led him along a maze of narrow byroads. The sun had begun to set and Windu couldn't help but feel it was a rather poignant sign. After the third alley they turned into, the way opened up to reveal a spacious but modest plaza: it had a well-trimmed garden, with a large tree in the middle. Quaint blue flowers bloomed on its branches and a few benches were placed around it. It was a peaceful and serene location marred only by the remains of a funeral pyre. It was charred through and blackened; whatever once laid atop it long burnt to ash and scattered to the wind.
"The decomposition process had already begun by the time Drallig and I could retrieve their bodies. We cremated them four days ago." Dooku said in a soft voice he very seldom used.
The Masters stood side-by-side in companionable silence as they stared at the spent pyre. Windu was sure his friend had done this the very day he set their mortal shells ablaze, but now he finally felt he had the luxury to drop his guard and reminisce about Qui-Gon Jinn. Despite his maverick disposition and stubborn devotion to the Living Force, Qui-Gon Jinn was a man that Windu respected and he surely would have been elevated to the Council if his views were less contentious. None could dispute his accomplishments on behalf of the Order nor diminish his worth as a Jedi, teacher, and confidant. He was a man whose wisdom was vast and freely given to any who would listen, and his counsel was sought by all strata of Jedi: from the most recently minted younglings to the most celebrated Masters. Windu was certain that the loss of such a man will be felt for years to come, especially in light of what happened.
"There must have been a reason." Dooku said in his usual tone as he kept his gaze on the pyre. "For revealing himself."
Windu took time to mull over the implications of that fact and what it could mean for the Republic. The Rule of Two made it so that the Sith were pitiful in number compared to the ten thousand strong Jedi, yet two of theirs had been vanquished with relative ease. That is to say nothing of the fact that the Sith had managed to stay hidden from their vigil for a millennium and, despite that, they could still deal a devastating blow then vanish without a trace. It was a truly vexing situation. These Sith were different from the ones put on record in the Archives. If this pattern holds, the Order will have to adapt accordingly to properly defend itself and the Republic.
Now, what could the Sith come to gain from what had transpired on Naboo? Yes, the first time Qui-Gon Jinn reported to have engaged with the Sith Lord was on Tatooine but then he deliberately made his way here. Were they targeting Qui-Gon Jinn specifically? If so, how did they come to know he was heading to Naboo? Were the Sith the puppet masters behind the Trade Federation? Was this merely the first step in an even grander plot? Windu felt his headache return and he remembered the words of Master Yoda: that to linger on speculation and uncertainties did little but cloud your judgement. Be mindful of the present.
"Fear. Confusion. Those are the weapons with which the Sith wage war and they have struck a heavy blow. Now we are aware. We will be on guard and will not fall so easily in the future." Windu said.
"This could have likely been avoided had the Council heeded Jinn's warning upon his return from Tatooine."
Windu cocked his head as he turned to look at Dooku. He could feel a faint trace of resentment emanate from his friend that had been hastily snuffed out. Mace was certain that Dooku knew the Council couldn't pursue every single proclamation of the Sith's return that was ever sent their way, no matter how prestigious the source was. There was a process to be upheld and to suggest such impulsive behaviour be the norm is unbecoming of Masters, let alone the Council.
"Is this about Galidraan?" Windu said.
"Of course not. Although, I would be remiss not to point out the parallels. Had the Council analysed the facts carefully before passing on their decision rather than remain obstinate in their views, Jinn might not have returned to the Force prematurely."
"We could not afford to be hasty. The situation with the Trade Federation was tenuous; the Senate—"
"Spare me the deflection. I saw the recordings of that meeting: the Council dismissed Jinn's report outright and told him to resume his duties as they were; with little recourse at his disposal I might add. The Council also failed to provide increased security in light of this possible threat. Whether the enemy was a true Sith or not was irrelevant as the mere existence of said threat, and Jinn's weariness of it, warranted the assignment of more Jedi besides a single Master and his padawan." Dooku said with a wave of his hand.
Windu held his tongue at the pointed and, unfortunately valid, critiques raised by his friend. The longer this discussion went on, the more Windu could feel the Force swirl and gather around them. This moment held importance to the Force and thus, he must tread softly.
"Speak plainly but measure your words carefully, Master Dooku." Windu said as he levelled a sharp gaze that signified he spoke as the Master of The Order and leader of the Council.
"I believe the Council have displayed egregious levels of negligence and short-sightedness regarding this whole affair and their failures have cost my padawan his life. In light of that, I no longer believe the Council conducts itself in an acceptable manner and I refuse to be beholden to an Order I have lost faith in. Once my commitments to Naboo have been fulfilled, and any outstanding affairs have been settled, I will be resigning from the Jedi Order." Dooku said in a firm tone and matched Windu's gaze unflinchingly.
The Force swirled more tightly around the two men. It felt like waves washing over them in a pulsing rhythm. Windu remained silent following Dooku's statement as he opened himself to the Force and sought its guidance once more. He felt a particular vein on his temple throb that tended to signal the appearance of a shatterpoint. He could feel the many threads that connected Dooku to the Force and signalled his importance to events that are to come. Should he stay with the Order? Should he be let go? Is he pivotal to the Sith's plans or to the Jedi's survival?
"The Order is in a precarious position. The Sith are at large and we know not their plans nor where they might strike next. You are one of the most respected members of our Order. You have proven today that your mind is still keen and your skills with the blade are rivalled by very few. We need you now more than ever." Windu said.
"I have been a Jedi Master for longer than you have been alive, Mace. I have given everything that I have — everything I am — to the Order. The recognition that you've mentioned? I have accomplished that long ago and as such it holds no sway over me. What I yearn for is to bring about true change through my actions and to see those who'd follow in my footsteps thrive in the galaxy because of them. The Council would not be inclined to abide by those goals so I must be free of their constraints."
The spike of bitterness and resentment that Windu felt earlier returned in droves. He studied Dooku's face as he spoke and found that the old Master looked tired: there were bags under his eyes and his cheeks were sunken. Windu did not know how he had missed it before – the last time he had seen Dooku with this countenance was after Galidraan. Despite it all, he felt the conviction that burned within the man. He had meant every word.
"There is nothing I can say to make you stay, is there?" Windu said with a sigh.
"No." Dooku said curtly as he stood straight.
"I will be expecting you at the Temple once our business on Naboo has concluded. Thank you for your service." Windu said and thought about issuing a dismissal but the words felt bitter on his tongue so he spoke no further. When Dooku turned around to leave, the shatterpoint vanished into nothingness and the Force quietened to a deathly silence. Night had fallen by now and Windu looked up at the starry sky as he wondered if this was the correct choice.
Seconds stretched into minutes as Mace Windu stood alone with his thoughts. He was disappointed in Dooku's decision to leave and he heavily disapproved of his reasoning for it. The life of a Jedi is one of great sacrifice for no personal gain, and to carve your name upon the stars for all to bask at is anathema to their nature as Jedi. Still, Windu could not resent the man just like he could not bring himself to demand him to stay against his will. All he had accomplished he did so as a true Jedi and that would never be taken away from him. The resignation of such a Master is a final death knell to punctuate the unmitigated disaster that was this mission to Naboo.
He wanted to get off this planet.
Windu made his way back to the warehouse at a slow pace; his mind still abuzz with the news from Dooku and what it meant for the future of the Order. He should speak to Master Yoda and together they could deliberate on what is the best course they should take. Windu focused on the presence of the small alien and used it as a beacon to find his way to him. Once inside the building, he walked with purpose and few dared get in his way. However, he stopped as he could feel that the people around him now sported a much livelier disposition. The mood was no longer as sombre as when they arrived and there were clear undercurrents of hope. Fewer beds were occupied by the infirm or the dying and some of the children ran about in excitement.
Windu heard some awed gasps and hearty laughter off to the side, so he turned his head and was met with an amusing sight: Grandmaster Yoda held up his hand as he levitated a few beaten-up toys and had them dance in the air — he even wiggled his fingers playfully for theatre — to the delight of a group of children around him. They each spoke over the other trying to get the 'funny old man' to make other things fly; if he could teach them how to do that; or even if they themselves could be levitated. Yoda chuckled and told them that if they had the potential they would have already been at the Temple to train.
One of the children caught Windu's eye and he recognised him to be Anakin Skywalker. To find the boy on Naboo of all places was both a surprise and entirely expected; he should have known Qui-Gon Jinn would have found a way to skirt their orders to not train the boy. Nevertheless, up until recently, the planet had been the site of a battle and that is no place for children, even one accompanied by Jedi. If Windu considered that he knew Qui-Gon Jinn well then he was certain the boy would have been in the thick of things – so how was it that Anakin went through this whole ordeal completely unscathed while his two Jedi guardians were killed?
Windu approached the group of children who were oblivious of him until Yoda set the toys down and greeted him. Almost in unison the children turned their heads then looked up and gawked at the imposing Korun and, once he asked to speak to Anakin Skywalker, they quickly ran away to escape his piercing gaze. The Tatooine native squirmed rather uncomfortably as he sat on one of the beds and Windu took a seat in front of him. Brown eyes locked with blue as each studied the face of the other.
"It would seem trouble follows you wherever you go, Skywalker. First Tatooine and now Naboo." Windu said.
"None of that was my fault! I hid like Master Qui-Gon told me to and I was in space when…" Anakin said indignantly at first before a deep sadness overcame him. It would seem the Master had a profound impact on the boy and his loss left a wound in his heart. Windu curled his lips at how easily the boy let his emotions take control, but he wanted to speak to him not berate him for things he was not trained for.
"You are not in trouble, child. I just want to ask you some questions." Windu said as he sent a soft pulse of reassurance to him in the Force. Anakin pursed his lips then nodded.
"You said you were in space?"
"Well, yeah. Like I said, I was hiding like I was supposed to, but then a bunch of droids showed up and started shooting Padmé! I tried to help but I…" Anakin said and blushed as he looked away in embarrassment. Windu encouraged him to continue, "I accidentally turned on the autopilot and the ship took us to the middle of a battle in space."
Windu cocked an eyebrow to feign incredulity even if he could feel the boy was being truthful through the Force. He wanted to gauge what his experience had been like.
"It's true! I tried to stop but the ship was being stubborn; Arr-two told me it was really annoying to override the autopilot."
"Arr-two?"
"Arr-two-dee-two, he's an astromech droid that helped me out a tonne. He's really nice." Windu nodded and told the boy to continue. "Once I got in control I flew the ship past a bunch of other ships that were shooting at me but they were lousy shots, then I went into one of the hangars of this really big ship and managed to land inside. Thing is, that place was full of droids so I shot them a bunch but then I hit a generator with a few proton torpedoes… I think, at least that's what Arr-two said I did. Anyway, then I flew outside right when the big ship exploded, it was so wizard!"
So that solved the mystery of how the Nabooians mustered enough naval might to destroy an entire droid fleet: one Force-sensitive child who managed to destroy the generator of their control ship from within. Windu had to restrain himself not to smirk at the thought.
"How did it feel to pilot that ship?" Windu said.
"It wasn't that hard to be honest; it felt a lot like all the times I went podracing, only you can go upside down too. I guess it was because I used a bunch of spaceship parts to build my podracer… I don't know… I was so focused on not getting hit that I wasn't thinking about it too much." Anakin said and Windu gave a sidelong glance to Yoda who had a twinkle in his eye.
"Weren't you afraid during the battle?"
"Well… I knew if I made a mistake we were screwed but I also know I am a really good pilot so I trusted things would turn out alright, and they did!" Anakin said with a proud grin on his face.
"What happened after the battle?"
"All the other pilots congratulated me for blowing up the big ship and that was really nice. We started to fly back but then I felt really sad out of nowhere… like something was not okay." Anakin paused as that same grief from before welled inside him. He breathed deeply and after a brief silence, he continued, "Right then all our ships got this message saying we had to go back to Theed because of a treaty or whatever. I didn't like that idea and a lot of the other pilots didn't too, because as soon as we touched down we hid. A few days later that old Jedi, Dooku I think is his name, showed up and I've been stuck here since then." Anakin said and looked at Windu innocently.
A lot of the answers supplied by Anakin were innocuous at first glance, yet also very telling. The boy had a natural affinity for the Force and could feel it instinctively without any formal training whatsoever. It could take time and a lot of rigorous training to get him on par with other padawans, but Windu knew a rough cut gem when he saw one. This child before him was full of life and, despite not having a strong presence in the Force yet, showcased flashes of great intellect and innate understanding of the Force. If he has half the potential that his midi-chlorian count suggested then he'd become an outstanding Jedi; and through discipline and experience he'll be forged and hardened into a fine man. After having spoken with the boy, Windu could now clearly see what Qui-Gon Jinn saw in him and perhaps there's some validity to his vergence claim after all.
"What did you think of Master Qui-Gon? He told us you wanted to be a Jedi, yes?" Windu said.
"Yes, sir. I want to be a Jedi more than anything else, ever. I was so excited when he promised to train me. I'm really sad he's not here with us anymore; he was really nice and taught me a lot of things."
"He was a very wise man. You are very fortunate to have learned from him."
"Yeah and I'll always be grateful for that but… you guys said I couldn't be trained so I don't know what to do… I don't wanna go back to working for Watto." Anakin said as he shrunk back into himself, and Windu could both see how a shiver went down the boy's spine and feel how the ball of energy that was Anakin Skywalker dimmed and turned cold. The uncertainty of his fate hung darkly over the boy's mind and Windu could tell he was not used to the Force feeling clouded.
"Do not fret; we will make a Jedi out of you yet."
"Really? You'll get me a teacher?" Anakin said and looked at Windu with eyes wide and full of hope. Windu cast a sideways glance at Yoda, who smiled at him and nodded.
"No, Skywalker. I will train you."
And the brightest shatterpoint that Mace Windu had felt in a long time, one that persisted since he locked eyes with Anakin Skywalker, melted back into harmony with the Force and left a pleasing hum in its wake.
AN: Well, here it is. The question that spawned the entire premise of this story: what if Mace Windu trained Anakin? Sprinkle in Plagueis having a more prominent role et voilá. I hope you enjoyed the chapter.