Hello all!
Here is my first October update as promised. There is a ton of crucial plot points going on right now, so pay close attention. Moving parts are abound. And there is lots to more to come on that front. But I can promise this: the lull period with little action and intrigue is drawing to a close very soon.
In fact, I'm happy to do a Q&A/comment activity for not the next chapter but the one after. I'll respond to everyone I can. Those reviews and feedback really keep me going and it means the world:)
Onwards!
"The most defensible answer to the question of why therapy works is: We don't know."- Robyn Dawes
Chapter 27. Interventions
Three weeks.
Three long, angst ridden, agonizing weeks went by before Anakin and Obi-Wan returned from Ringo Vinda. The battle had been a difficult one. Being one of the most important relay and docking stations in the entire Middle Rim, CIS forces were not about to give it up without a serious, bloody fight. And bloody it turned out to be. The 501st and 212th were two units who were able to keep casualty counts relatively low due to the care of their generals.
Admiral Trench was an expert at killing clones and sent many to their graves before Republic forces finally broke through. Rather than be captured by the new High General, he committed suicide.
The damage done to the Confederacy as a result, was immeasurable. Half of their remaining fleet had been destroyed. Star Destroyer dreadnoughts took minimal casualties. But the true measure of damage to the Republic forces could not be measured in mere bodies.
Ahsoka sensed a great deal of tension emanating from Anakin's ship as it touched down in the main hangar and connected to the tunnel port. Not a good sign. The collective pulse from the 'Resolve' was that of pain and weariness.
Thousands of exhausted troopers exited the ship, some were in casts, others with patches across their heads. The cobalt blue paint, so characteristic of the 501st, was chipped, faded, scorched by the markings of blaster fire. But the men held their heads high and gave no visible signs of fatigue. Not a soul complained. A spark of nostalgia warmed Ahsoka's chest. She missed them– the friends who'd fought side by side with her countless times.
The Togruta's attention snapped back towards the off ramp as the presence of her former master became stronger.
Oh, Anakin
He looked as though he hadn't slept in weeks. Dark circles served to highlight the tired veins of red intersecting across his eyes. His chiseled baby face looked gaunt and pale. A nasty, standoffish air hovered above the Hero With No Fear.
"Heya, Skyguy. Congratulations on another victory."
She tried to keep it light and casual. Anakin hated formality. His muscles worked up just enough effort to give a passing imitation of a smile that resembled more of a grimace.
"Thanks, Snips. All in a day's work."
"More like a few rotations."
The joke either missed or didn't land. Anakin gave no laugh nor that boyish snicker he was so well known for.
"Listen, I have to give a report to the Chancellor. I'll see you later."
Ahsoka watched him stride away. Every part of him radiated stress and unhappiness. The mark of a man entirely on edge and gave himself no quarter and no rest. Stubborn and unyielding.
"He's been like that since the campaign started, and it's only gotten worse."
Rex came up behind her and gave a far more chipper greeting followed by a crisp salute which she returned. She too could sense the Captain's own duress, but it was nowhere near as massive as Anakin's.
"It's good to see you, old friend."
"Likewise," Rex beamed at her. "Honestly, we could all use more friends. Especially General Skywalker."
"What do you mean?"
Rex never minced words. But for once, he looked a tad uncomfortable at the subject. He never wanted to interfere in the private lives of his General. More often than not, he was unwittingly pulled into it.
"I'm going to tell you something off the record."
Ahsoka nodded, knowing their trust could withstand a secret.
"Ringo Vinda shouldn't have lasted three weeks. And it wasn't solely because of Admiral Trench."
Kriff, that sounded ominous. She braced herself as Rex expounded further.
"General Skywalker and General Kenobi barely spoke to each other the entire time. The 501st and 212th have always worked well together, you've seen it first hand. But more often than not Cody and I were used as go-betweens whenever battle plans were discussed. As a result, communication was off, timing suffered, and the droids were able to counter our maneuvers."
Ahsoka bit back a frustrated cry as the Captain's words sunk deeper into the depths of her soul. Was their feud really this bad that it nearly cost them victory? And worse?
"Don't get me wrong," Rex reassured her, practically reading her thoughts. "They'd never purposefully put our lives at risk. But whatever's going on between them needs to end sooner rather than later."
"I'm in complete agreement." She glanced over and saw trooper Hardcase with a patch over his eye, walking on crutches. "The casualty reports must be awful."
"They're no worse than the second battle of Geonosis."
"Rex that's-"
"Part of what we agreed to when signing up for voluntary service," he said firmly and without hesitation. "General Luke gave us that choice and we agreed to stay. To fight for the Republic against Separatist tyranny. For freedom. I intend to honor that choice."
Ahsoka bit back all of the accursed knowledge of the future in a bid not to upset the balance of the timeline too dramatically. As her friend, Rex deserved to know the truth. That even now their 'choice' was a mere illusion and she was working on a plan to free them from a lifetime of slavery and subservience.
Alas, she couldn't. Not yet.
Not yet
The Force called and she listened instead choosing to control what she could control in the moment and not the future.
"I know," she said. "The Republic couldn't ask for better soldiers, nor I a better friend."
Rex gave a warm smile. She could see the real, glimmering emotion behind that stoic pair of golden brown irises. Supposedly they'd been part of a rebellion against the Sith where Luke came from. A team until the end.
"Thank you." He stiffened as the tender moment passed. "I'm going to check on the men and file a report."
"Report? I thought you submitted your numbers already."
"I'm not talking about casualties and supplies. We need General Luke back. I should've realized that sooner."
Ahsoka nodded and peered over Rex's shoulder. Obi-Wan Kenobi was in a subdued conversation with Commander Cody. He did not look as stressed as Anakin, but no one would mistake his expression for happiness.
"I think you're onto something, Rex," Ahsoka said slowly. "There's a few things that should have been patched up recently."
She saluted quickly and made to leave. But Rex called out to her one last time.
"Ahsoka. There's one other thing you should know."
He came up to her until their faces were inches from each other and began whispering to minimize the chance of being overheard.
"General Skywalker didn't ask me to spot check his gear. Not once."
"You mean…"
"I cannot confirm he talked to Senator Amidala at any point in time. At least not while I was within the vicinity."
Shit. Shit. That was bad. Really bad. If Anakin and Padme were on the fritz, Sidious might be closer to turning him than in the original timeline.
I need to tell Luke right away
"He's not sleeping and barely ate. Whatever's affecting him, I hope you can fix it."
Ahsoka took a determined breath. The time for being passive had long passed.
"Trust me, Rex. I will."
Ahsoka could sense many things going on at once: the tension within the Jedi Order and the Republic, that her former master and Obi-Wan weren't talking anymore, and that Anakin seemed to be stressed beyond measure.
Thankfully, this elaborate mess of emotion did not interfere with their own relationship. She and Anakin sat in the mess hall at her request, one he granted despite a busy schedule. The brunette didn't seem to be in much of a mood to talk. He ate robotically, simply passing whatever his fork stabbed into his mouth without care.
"Anakin...are you okay?" she finally asked bluntly.
"Yes. Fine. Why do you ask?"
"Oh, nothing, it's just...you look terrible."
Anakin flipped his utensil down onto his plate with a clang.
"Gee thanks," he snapped.
"Master, don't be upset. I'm just concerned. I've never seen you like this."
Thankfully, his voice softened realizing the source of his ire had nothing to do with the former Padawan he adored so much.
"I'm sorry, Snips. I've been under a lot of stress lately. Attending meetings, planning battles, on top of everything else I do for the Order. It's a lot."
The Togruta nodded in understanding.
"Naturally, but you seemed to be holding up just fine until you left for Ringo Vinda. Is something else on your mind?"
The suggestive tone was designed to help him open up. Instead, it just made Anakin more stubborn.
"No, nothing else is on my mind."
"Anakin, I've known you long enough to realize when you try to hide something."
The brunette rested his chin on his right hand, looking grumpier with each passing second.
"What is with everyone believing they can suddenly solve my problems?"
"I didn't say that," she replied calmly. "All I want to do is help. Don't bottle it all up. It's not healthy. We're Jedi, remember?" she added with a playful smile.
That seemed to do the trick as the Chosen One heaved a reluctant sigh.
"I've been going through some personal stuff," he admitted. "It's adding to my stress."
Ahsoka knew she could press a little further.
"What kind of stuff?"
But as always, some kind of inconvenience got in the way. Anakin's comlink lit up.
"That's the Council's signal. I have to go see them."
Less than thrilled at that prospect, he wore a scowl upon standing up from the table, not even bothering to empty his tray. But before he could, Ahsoka grabbed his arm.
"Anakin, you know you can talk to me about anything right? That I'm always right here when you need me?"
He gave a reassuring smile, the kind she was used to.
"Of course, Ahsoka. Thank you for helping me. I'll see you later."
Though they parted on good terms, internally the former Padawan clenched her jaw in not being able to get to the bottom of what troubled Anakin. Of course, she already knew the main reason but applying that knowledge in solving the issue at hand was a different matter altogether.
"Oh, look who it is. Grumpy Skywalker number two."
Luke had arrived, slamming his tray down rather a little too carelessly, splattering food in multiple directions.
"What?" he asked shortly.
"Your father is being difficult enough. Don't you start as well."
"Yeah, while you're at it would you mind not using my real last name. Really gives away the whole 'time travel' thing."
Ahsoka bit her lip refraining from unleashing a tirade for his rudeness. Honestly, Skywalker men.
"It would help if the both of you would stop biting my head off," she said testily. Unlike Anakin, Luke was more mature and far less prone to acting irrational with emotions and had little excuse to be lashing out. The look on his face said it all.
"I'm sorry...don't mind an old idiot like me," he said with a shake of his head. "When you get to my age, you'll find patience improves but not always one's attitude."
"I'm finding that out firsthand," Ahsoka told him cheekily.
"How's Anakin?" Luke asked calmly this time.
"Even more stressed than you are. Overburdened, constantly working on battle plans and being a part of the Advisory Cell. Stubborn, irritable, about as open as a Hutt's hand full of credits."
"Jabba's fortunate I have no time to go after his slimy ass," the blond added sardonically.
"I've been trying to get him to talk without much success," Ahsoka continued. "But I do know what's been bothering him."
That got Luke to raise his eyebrows.
"What?"
She hesitated before giving the distressing truth.
"It's worse than I thought. Not only are he and Obi-Wan in a feud, but he's not speaking with Padme either."
There was no lie in Ahsoka's words. Luke had sensed Anakin's distress but hadn't the opportunity to find out why. And the reason nearly sent him into a mental tailspin.
"How do you know?
"Anakin uses a secret protocol as a cover to contact her: gear spot checking. He and Padme would talk over the Holonet while one of us stood guard in case Obi-Wan ever stopped by. Only Rex and I ever witnessed that protocol. If he stopped using it…"
"Then they must be in a bad place," Luke concluded. He let out a string of very strong Huttese curses."
"I knew something was off when Padme didn't trust him enough to be included in Senator Organa's plans. She told me not to tell him anything. He wasn't even mentioned the entire time we were in Naboo. And not just because her parents were around."
Luke took in this information and digested it before speaking further. It was the worst news he ever could have received. And adding insult to injury…a result of his own meddling.
What have I done?
"Sidious is speeding up everything faster than I thought," he finally breathed out.
"Anakin reports directly to him now, and on top of that he's slowly becoming isolated from everyone who genuinely cares about his well-being."
"So what do we do about it?"
Ahsoka's question presented an interesting dilemma. Anakin had been in the Chancellor's inner circle for weeks now, and neither one had any idea of any potential manipulation or evil whispering, though he supposed that might be a given. To counter Sidious would require proof, and nothing concrete yet existed. Racking his brains, he came up with a couple of ideas, including one he'd been sitting on for awhile.
"Has the holopiece recorded any evidence of Palpatine's crimes?"
"I've been monitoring it since I placed it in his office. Nothing. He hasn't said a word to Anakin about anything related to the dark side. Just war numbers and figures. Boring stuff."
Kriff. Alright. He should've known Sidious might be too slippery to catch in that manner. He hadn't become Chancellor by incriminating himself.
"This is going to require a different strategy."
"So what're you going to do?"
"Train Anakin in the art of resisting the dark side. I can't tell him my identity but if I can get him to confide in me about what's going on, it will help with everything he currently fears to lose."
"I don't know if you've noticed by now, but your father doesn't open up to just anybody. I found out second hand that he and his mother were slaves."
"It might be our only option."
"Are you sure?"
No. He wasn't sure. He wasn't sure about much these days. And the date for his upcoming trial with the Council to decide his fate still hadn't been set.
"I've been playing this safe with a few calculated risks along the way," he said to her. "But this time I have to take a real risk."
"You're right," Ahsoka said with a note of regret that to be open meant risking certain death. "And on that front we also need to help Obi-Wan too."
Luke made a noise of derision.
"He might be even more stubborn than my father. We haven't spoken since my suspension."
"Precisely why it's important. Helping Obi-Wan doesn't just mean healing the rift with Anakin but yours too. We need him, Luke. Don't bother denying it."
The Last Jedi had to save a bit of capacity for his own astonishment at times. What seventeen year old had the nerve and compassion to speak to someone three times her age like that? It only proved the old adage: age did not always equate to wisdom.
"I know," he admitted at long last. "But what am I supposed to say? He could think I'm trying to influence him before the trial."
"Just leave Obi-Wan to me. You go find Anakin and have some father-son bonding time. He loves you, you know."
He loves you, you know
Those words managed to hit harder than any other heard in his lifetime, past, present, or future.
"Then I'm not going to waste more time."
Ahsoka couldn't resist giving a proud smile as Luke cleared his tray and left the mess hall. Obstinate and difficult as they could be, she really did love the Skywalker clan.
"And you're sure these are accurate?"
"As much as I can be, sir."
Darth Sidious studied the hologram pictures of what on the surface appeared to be a normal human female womb. But Padme Amidala was no ordinary human female, even if her importance was in proximity to someone far greater in power.
"What makes you so sure?"
The wild haired old man, Calamitus Frix, an unorthodox, controversial doctor by Coruscanti standards, but ruthlessly efficient when it came to medicine and diagnoses. Not afraid to push the boundaries of what was acceptable and willing to do what was necessary to achieve those ends. A trail blazer by Sith standards.
"Well if you don't believe the images in front of you, believe her symptoms. Fatigue, nausea, morning sickness," he ticked them off one by one. "All consistent with the first trimester of pregnancy."
Of course, he already knew that. He'd sensed another source of energy stemming from within the girl's body and already made what turned out to be an accurate guess. It only served as a means of testing the man.
Sipping a fine brew of tea, Sidious zeroed in on another holopad image.
"Doctor, is this usual?"
"What, sir?"
"This."
A second object, identical to the first, floated in conjunction with its twin. Two black spaces, each with the imprint of a grainy looking object.
"Ah, yes. The Senator is carrying twins."
"Twins."
"Yes, my liege. Early stages. Elevated hcG levels, high amounts of alpha feto-proteins, yes, yes…I'm all but certain."
The feral, hungry look in Sidious's eyes flickered yellow for a half second before Frix inquired once more.
"My liege?"
Yellow turned back to blue in the nick of time.
"Yes thank you, doctor. And she has no idea of her own pregnancy?"
"I told her that the symptoms result from stress and nothing more. Per your instructions."
"Good. Good."
A pocket full of credits later and the man left that much richer, quite willing to sell out a patient in exchange for extra funds towards his 'research.' Of course, he ended up with the real prize.
"Curious. Very curious."
Sidious debated the options in his head. On the one hand, the offspring of a Jedi were automatically a threat to him; doubly so when factoring that Anakin was no ordinary Jedi, but the Chosen One made the decision equally difficult. For such children could be employed in the service of the grand empire to come. Powerful servants to enforce his will on the galaxy and beyond. The entire Skywalker clan at his disposal…the possibilities were without limit.
Anakin could be convinced of such a scheme. He doubted Senator Amidala's cooperation. He frowned thinking of her reaction. The woman was too soft hearted, too sanctimonious. An obstacle that had no intention of bowing down to him and the vision laid out to transform the Republic from a corrupt, bureaucratic mass into an efficient, systematic machine of power. An engine of prosperity and order. Even the words of a single Senator, as he'd learned, swayed the thoughts of millions. It wouldn't take much for her to do the same to her husband.
The boy will never reach his true potential with her around
Their relationship had proven to be an asset and an effective means of playing Anakin's volatile emotions against the Council he so resented. The Jedi did not allow marriage or any kind of romantic attachments. It fueled anger and loathing but not hatred. The love he had for Padme Amidala was the one barrier left. The one person Anakin valued more than fealty to the Chancellor.
She will not give the children to me willingly
For his future apprentice to become a truly effective apprentice- a ruthless, stone cold killer that struck fear in the hearts of those who dared oppose them- weakness must be stamped out in whatever form it took. Fear, hatred, and the pursuit of power…these tenants of the Sith Order could not be attained by indulging in the foolish trappings of romance.
A shame the good Senator had not accepted his tea or any sort of personal invitation since their last meeting. Somehow, some way Sidious knew Luke Ahch-To was responsible for that too. The meddling group of hacks led by Bail Organa were growing bolder and bolder by the day. He'd been content to let them live as a symbolic means of functioning, to give the new order a form of continuation and legitimacy once the Old Republic was no more. Now? They were as dead as the archaic institution they served.
The Dark Lord held up the vial of black liquid once more, smirking into the inky contents as it swirled around like a sea of poison.
Soon, very soon…
The Force worked in mysterious ways.
Yoda had lived by that uncertain creed his entire lifespan, now approaching nine hundred years. Time left, there was. But not that much time. Twilight approached. He could feel it in his bones.
For now, he immersed himself in the training of those who represented the next generation. To pass on thousands of years worth of Jedi wisdom and training. For within them lay sacred tradition, knowledge, and the innocence only children carried in such a natural state: the future. And the symbol that things would continue as they had before.
He loved teaching younglings. Decades passed since last taking a padawan learner and for good reason. Teenagers were rebellious, stubborn, and required a higher degree of discipline and structure, something the Old Master did not have quite enough energy for. But younglings were wide eyed, curious, and showed a willingness to absorb information at a rapid pace if showed patience and kindness.
"Reach out. Sense the Force around you."
The younglings did as told. Even as the helmets blocked their sight.
"Use your feelings, you must."
A steady sound of humming and deflected blaster bolts told Yoda all was going as instructed.
"The Force. All around us, it is. Let it flow. Let it guide you."
He could sense their small but burgeoning signatures pondering, investigating, and probing with delight and wonder. Though their power was miniscule, Yoda considered it the purest form of meditation, unhindered by trauma or adult stigmas.
Then an unexpected twist in the lesson.
"Master?"
One youngling had switched off his blade and peeked out from the comically large helmet.
"Yes, Jax? A question, you have?"
"Will Master Luke be okay? Is he gonna leave?"
Yes, the Force worked in mysterious ways. Even now, it confused him more than it ever had. The name of Luke Ahch-To served as a constant reminder of that.
He gave a tired, old sigh.
"An answer, I cannot give."
"Why?"
"I heard he's being kept in a dungeon!" another human youngling squealed.
"That's silly. He's just going to go be a farmer."
"Quiet please, children," Yoda said gently. "In a dungeon, Master Luke is not. Nor a farmer is he."
"Isn't that where all the people who can't be Jedi go?" an ebony skinned girl asked.
"Complicated that matter is."
"What did he do wrong?"
By the Force, Yoda had not expected this. And what satisfactory reply could he give to such an open ended question?
"Master Windu says he's dangerous," another child piped up.
"No he's not!" protested a human girl with light brown hair and blue eyes. "I met him in the Archives. He's nice!"
"Don't be stupid Aniya."
"I'm not stupid!" she shouted back. "You're stupid!"
Yoda cut across the petty squabbling with a firm tap of his staff.
"Enough. Cease this at once."
He stepped up to the little girl, Aniya being her name and studied her closely. Her eyes were as the sea behaves in a storm, emotions howling like the strongest winds on a creaking ship.
"Afraid you are."
"Yes, Master."
"What troubles you, my child?"
Her reluctance spoke louder than any response. Yoda suddenly felt just how limited his power to perceive extended. He could sense her distress…but not the reason why.
"I'm…angry, Master."
"Angry? What angers you?"
"I…I don't like it when I get teased. Others say I'm never going to be picked by a Master. I thought-"
She stopped short as though catching a dark curse on her tongue.
"Speak, young one. Judge you, I will not."
"I thought Master Luke could help me. He helped Caleb, right?"
Yoda went silent. But any advice or the proper thing to say eluded his mind. Nine hundred years of experience offered no solution.
"Help you I will in this matter," he said. "But no more, will I teach you today. Time it is, for your exercises."
The arrival of Depa Billaba gave welcome relief to the awkwardness.
"Master, I hope I'm not interrupting."
"At an end our lesson is."
"May I have a private word?"
"Of course."
He motioned for the younglings to be patient before chaperoning them to Temple's open gymnasium to a chorus of 'awwws' while Billaba followed behind. It brought the smallest of smiles to his face.
"Yes, what news Master Billaba?"
She handed him a data book filled with the latest news of the war which he took with one claw.
"There are quite a few reports, some of which need your approval. I've already read them so I can summarize everything if you wish, Master."
"Go on."
"Ringo Vinda is under Republic control, though not without a great deal of casualties."
Yoda looked at the numbers and deflated. More lives lost. More clones who would never live to see a day without war. Each one struck a blow to his heart, no matter how alike they were in appearance.
"Admiral Trench. Dead is he?"
"Confirmed officially by our intelligence. But the circumstances surrounding his death are…unconfirmed. Supposedly, he was found dead by High General Skywalker. He committed suicide rather than face trial."
"You suspect otherwise?"
Master Billaba treaded a thin line, careful not to take an accusatory tone.
"I wasn't there, Master. But there was no poison in his bloodstream according to the toxicology report. Nor any other illicit substance. The official cause of death listed in the body examination is a single blaster shot to the head. But that was the redacted version."
Yoda murmured to himself.
"The full report, you have?"
"I do courtesy of Senior Technician/Medic Kix of the 501st. Also observed upon examining the body was a cauterized wound to the chest. A lightsaber wound."
That description was indeed troubling. Skywalker had always been unstable, but this went to another level of ruthlessness…if true at least. It was also true that despite recent tension, they still needed the boy.
"Insinuate, we cannot," he said finally. "Not unless proof, we have. What else is there to report?"
"Well…"
Yoda gestured for her to continue. He never understood the way some tended to dance around bad news in his presence. Better to be honest than to paint a false picture of the truth.
"...there's a petition."
"Petition…petition from whom?"
"It's from the 501st Legion, Master. There is a unified document, signed by every soldier to reinstate Jedi Knight Luke Ahch-To. Including the officers."
He glanced at the last ten or so pages, filled with the single named signatures of clone trooper after clone trooper. Rex's scribble was bigger than them all, as if he wanted his own endorsement to be heard that much louder.
"Loyal beings, clones are."
"They haven't refused to fight or take up arms, but they were quite insistent," Billaba said with a hint of admiration. "With High General Skywalker immersing himself more and more into his new position, there is a void at the top."
The Grandmaster couldn't argue with that. Militarily and practically, Luke taking charge of the 501st made sense. But could the same be said for his knighthood in the Jedi Order?
"Master Billaba. How is your padawan?"
She looked a tad surprised at the abrupt change in topic.
"Oh, he's fine. Why do you ask?"
"A witness he was to Luke Ahch-To's violation of the code. And yet nothing of his story do we know. Has he said anything?"
"Yes…he has, actually," Billaba confirmed. "It had a profound effect."
"Profound, you say?"
"Yes. Much as I thought Ahch-To's philosophy to be wrong, Caleb has become far better at controlling himself. He seems…happier."
She looked over at the younglings, now chatting and giggling amongst themselves in the training room. A nostalgic reminiscent look, stretched across her face.
"I myself voted to suspend him. And yet I can't help but wonder if we made a mistake."
Voicing such a sentiment out loud, the sanctity of being neutral was a mistake Billaba sought to correct.
"Forgive me, Master. I didn't mean to question the wisdom of the Council."
"No need to apologize. To question what is wise…perhaps it's what we need."
"Master?"
Yoda looked up at the Chalactan and tapped his gimmer stick.
"Send me Balen Garic, Master Drallig, and others who were there to witness the incident. More information, I require, yes."
He would also have a closer look at that memo the Chancellor sent over regarding the death of General Grievous. Something about that man was becoming increasingly unpleasant…devious even. He would have to meditate on it later on.
He could hear further roughhousing by the children and returned to them. For now, he had the future to look after. And maybe in time, they would build a better one.
Obi-Wan Kenobi really didn't enjoy being on the corners of crowded streets. The clamoring and clatter made it difficult to think, to see clearly throughout the Force. Especially with so many life forms involved in their daily routines.
Tiresome as it was, he'd have to make do. Ahsoka insisted on the importance of speaking outside the Temple about a matter concerning Anakin. Honestly, when did something not concern Anakin? It wasn't like he had to be his wet nurse anymore. The campaign on Ringo Vinda saw to that.
And yet it cost you a great deal of men. And it's costing you a friendship
Blast, this was a waste of time. Dwelling on on his own conflict in the middle of a Coruscanti traffic jam felt stupid and pointless. If Ahsoka wanted to talk she could do so back home. He wasn't-
"Obi-Wan."
He whipped around and saw Satine standing there. As if she'd materialized randomly.
"Satine? Where? How?"
"Does it matter?"
Ahsoka. She must have set this up. But how did she know?
"A little. I didn't expect…I mean-"
Words didn't seem to come out properly as one look of her lovely face leveled him into submission. She pulled him into a kiss, one so long it may have lasted a lifetime…or at least thirty seconds. After a while, several onlookers wolf whistled and even a few speeders honked in approval.
"I've got some explaining to do, haven't I?"
"Yes, you do Master Kenobi." Satine's eyes hardened as she grabbed his hand and began walking them down the street.
"Where are we going?"
"To talk."
"That doesn't really answer the question."
The grip tightened as fire burned with displeasure inside those light blue eyes.
"Riiiight, shall I let you lead the way?"
"I've only been doing so since we were fifteen."
Criminey. He wished he'd savored that kiss a little more before the inevitable bludgeoning.
Luke managed to track his father down when he wasn't off doing some tedious assignment for the evil bantha rag. Master Drallig had told him Anakin usually liked to tinker with various projects in his room after a round of training. Approaching the door, Luke could already sense a great deal of confusion and fear.
No coincidence there
At the heart of this issue was Anakin and Padme's marriage. He'd envisioned a variety of scenarios in coming back to the past, some positive, some too terrible to relate. But being the catalyst for his parents possibly breaking up?
This needed to be fixed. And fast.
He pressed the alarm and thankfully an 'enter' was heard from within.
"I could sense you coming," Anakin said leaning over an assistant droid, pressing two wires together.
Luke saw his room was an assorted mess consisting of various parts, droids, and other various clutter with a bed squarely in the middle. Apparently this little idiosyncratic habit was well known among the Order.
"Am I that predictable?"
"No, but I do have a knack for it. Just like with these things," he replied, tossing his tools aside. "What's up?"
"Just came to check in on the new High General of the Grand Army of the Republic. Haven't seen you much since the promotion. Or given proper congratulations."
Anakin gave an amused sniff.
"Thank you. You're one of the few who thinks it's a good thing. Frankly, it's not all that glamorous. A lot of numbers, intelligence, data, etc."
"The 501st will miss you. I can say that with certainty."
"Funny you should mention that. The Chancellor has granted me the authority to select my own replacement. And guess who I choose?"
He said it in a light tone but the blond took it seriously all the same.
"Anakin, you can't."
"Why not? I'm the High General. I can pick whomever I decide. I could fire the entire Council if I wanted."
Luke could see the barely restrained resentment in his father. The kind that unleashed megalomania when fed the sort of lies Sidious intended to serve. It wasn't anywhere close to the memory he saw on Mustafar, but it veered in that direction. A taste of what Darth Vader was capable of.
"You can't put yourself and your position on the line just for me. Besides, Rex is on top of things."
"I trust Rex with my life. But I'm not leaving my men without a Jedi they know in charge. Say the word, Luke and I'll toss that suspension faster than lightspeed. The Council can't hold us back anymore."
Us.
Luke felt another mental episode coming on and tried to resist it, but a flash slipped through.
Join me, Luke. And together we can rule the galaxy as Father and Son!
"Luke?"
There was a brief pause in which he realized Anakin was staring at him intently with concern. No ideal gateway existed to what promised to be the most personal conversation between them but that couldn't be helped now.
"Look, I came for a different reason. I heard you weren't doing too well and wanted to help."
Anakin's expression switched to one of dismissal.
"Ahsoka probably told you after I left, right? Don't worry. I can handle myself."
Kriff, I see the family knack for emotional damage is kicking in
"It wasn't just Ahsoka," he admitted. "I can feel it. For better or worse you and I have a bond. And lately you've been tired and…"
Anakin raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to finish the sentence.
"Upset," he finally finished, hoping no offense would be taken. Thankfully, Anakin merely looked exhausted as opposed to affronted.
"Luke, I appreciate you trying to help but this isn't something you can assist with. Nobody can."
"Try me," Luke challenged. "You know I'm considered a maverick by Jedi standards. We both fit that category."
"This goes beyond the realm of 'maverick'. Trust me. Let's just say the Council isn't my biggest supporter right now, and the less scrutiny I'm under the better. Best not to seek me out."
"I'm seeking you out. Whether they like it or not."
Anakin began to soften as his own words were used against him. He looked vulnerable but not a man on the verge of self immolation.
Right then and there Luke wanted to do away with all precaution and scream 'Everyone knows about you and Padme'. But that would be the wrong way to go about earning that extra level of trust. He had to let Anakin admit to being married and not the other way around.
"The Council isn't always right. And the way they treat you and others who don't conform is disgraceful."
That certainly got Anakin's attention.
"Obi-Wan said you had differing views about the Force. He wasn't kidding."
"Growing up outside the traditional realm of the Jedi comes with its own perspective. Especially after being among them for a long period of time. Asking a person to let go of their personal feelings for others and yet offer no assistance or empathy is nothing short of foolish."
He sat down next to his father, sensing him relax, posture becoming more open.
"The Jedi Code forbids attachment," Anakin said quietly, echoing Ahsoka on Onderon. "I should know better. At least...I tried."
"What you feel isn't merely attachment, Anakin. It's love. Which I can say without question is the most beautiful thing in this universe. Yes, it can be manipulated but in its true essence is purer than the brightest star."
"Do...you know?" came the non specific yet implied question.
"I don't 'know.' I only sense. What you wish to tell me is your choice."
Luke didn't necessarily like to pretend he wasn't already aware of the true nature of the relationship. The old pre-inclination against lying protested, but admitting that would put Anakin on the defensive again. His carefully chosen words seemed to move the needle just enough. The brunette looked both ways and back before he replied.
"What I tell you has to stay in this room. No one else can know."
"Are you sure about that?"
Anakin gave an unsure look.
"Sometimes I think Obi-Wan does. But he's never mentioned it openly. Ahsoka maybe but that's it...and uh Rex more or less has an idea."
"And what are you referring to specifically?"
"Luke...I'm married. I have been for almost three years. To Padme Amidala."
He had to give the most politely surprised reaction he could muster.
"I sensed both of you had feelings for each other. But marriage?"
"Yes," Anakin said with a sigh. "And that's why I've been having such a hard time lately. You see I…we've been fighting. I'm trying to make the galaxy a better place but she doesn't seem to understand. Everything I do is for her and if something ever happened I'd-"
He stopped, unable to go any further. Luke finally witnessed what birthed the rise of Darth Vader in a nutshell. Anakin was capable of so much love for those around him but the death of Shmi Skywalker implanted a degree of fear and desperation that rose to unhealthy levels which by extension also led to the potential for great evil. Looking back, Vader had been rank with fear. That black suited, half man half machine was the terrifying end result of a good man letting his inner demons take control.
Luke did not believe the Jedi Code to be entirely consistent, but Master Yoda had been right about one aspect.
'Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering.'
There was a great deal of fear in Anakin Skywalker and more than a bit of anger currently stewing against the Order he'd sworn to serve. He had to put the kibosh on that here and now. The situation suddenly became imperative.
"Anakin," he finally said softly. "You're a living being. None of us are perfect."
"I have to be," came the pained reply. "That's all that's even been expected of me since the beginning. To be the Chosen One, to bring balance."
"Yes, but as I said that does not exclude you from being human with thoughts and emotions of your own. You love Senator Amidala more than anything. That is not a sin."
"I do love her," Anakin said with great reverence. "Without her, I don't know that I'd be the same person."
"The ones that tell us hard truths rather than what we want to hear are those worthy of our trust and respect. It is easy to spin lies that go against our better nature in pursuit of unbridled ambition. But that only leads you to a dark place," Luke advised. To use Palpatine by name was off the table. However, he hoped this conversation might make him more immune to the Sith Lord's poisonous words.
"I understand," his father nodded. "But it feels...irresponsible to do nothing. We're so close to winning this war."
Luke knew all too well about the lure of power. How it could lead to great personal gain…and loss if abused.
"Senator Amidala is a principled woman of great character. Do you not believe if she's worried about the fate of the Republic, there might be something to that?"
"Is this what she told you at dinner?"
Kriff, he had to answer this question perfectly. He couldn't make it seem like they'd been conspiring behind his back.
"It came up. She was more concerned about helping me than anything else."
Anakin smiled wistfully.
"That sounds like my Angel."
"Anakin, trust in the love you have for her. Listen to each other. I guarantee it will help."
To his surprise the Hero With No Fear's guilt only deepened.
"She probably hates me. I wouldn't blame her, after some of the things I said."
Luke swallowed but placed an empathic arm around his father's shoulder. It was not pushed away.
"What things?"
"You'd just hate me too."
"Hate is toxic. Hate is counter productive. Hate has ruined countless lives. Whatever you choose to tell me, be assured I could never hate you."
Fresh tears began pouring down Anakin's cheeks.
"I killed him."
"Who?"
"Admiral Trench!" he cried, getting up from the bedside, holding his hands out as though they were foreign, disgusting objects. "He threatened to blow up the entire station unless we surrendered to him! I couldn't let that happen!"
"Self defense," Luke assured. "That's different from murder."
"You don't understand. I-I liked it," he said in a hushed voice. "I enjoyed inflicting the pain he inflicted on so many others. To bring justice to those who deserve it. Just like those animals who took my mother from me."
He turned around and Luke saw the pain, the look of a scared little boy within the body of a man and the powers of a god who had no idea how to control them. Vengeance. Love. Passion. Strength. Compassion. Cruelty. Fear. Guilt. Red hot rage. All mixed into one human being.
"Slaughtering them gave me more relief than the power of a thousand suns. And yet I'm filled with shame. I'm not the Jedi I should be. Why do I feel like this?"
Luke reached out with the Force, pouring every once of soothing, light side energy to ease the troubled mind of a tortured soul.
"I don't know if anyone's ever told you this. Your mother's death was not your fault."
Anakin's voice cracked under emotional strain.
"I couldn't save her. I…I just want to be strong enough. But I'm so angry. To the point where I don't even know who I'm angry at."
"You feel the dark side."
It wasn't a question. The deepening circles, thin face and semi permanent frown were all products of a confused, unhappy man.
"Every day. And lately I've almost slipped to the point of no return."
Luke's mouth twitched but otherwise showed no signs of obvious worry. Anakin needed stability, not a scolding. This moment was long overdue.
"Then I'm going to teach you to resist it."
"What?"
"I know a technique that can help."
Anakin's sapphire eyes reignited.
"Really?"
He nodded emphatically.
"The dark side is growing, we can all feel it. It's practically in the very air we breathe. There's no way to know for sure, but the Dark Lord of the Sith could very well be behind this."
"You think so?"
"I think it's highly likely," Luke said somberly. "You're the Chosen One and the most powerful in raw strength among us. Anyone looking to destroy the Jedi would start with you and any weaknesses they could exploit."
His father appeared to accept that line of reasoning.
"But how?"
"It's not inconceivable that the Sith Lord we're looking for is closer than we think. That he may know about all of us to a certain degree."
The Last Jedi decided to stop there. He could not reveal anything more short of accusing Palpatine of being a Sith Lord and no tangible evidence existed yet to implicate the evil bastard. But he could help Anakin become less susceptible to lies and trickery.
"The point is, the war is becoming more perilous than ever and too many amongst our own have fallen," he nodded, indicating Barriss Offee and Pong Krell. "You're a good man, Anakin. A great Jedi and a loyal friend. Don't let fear rule your thoughts and decisions."
He didn't expect to be pulled into a hug the very next moment. The second one shared in a month.
"I'm sorry," his father apologized, wiping away the salty discharge. "It's just...I've been living with these secrets for so long to finally tell someone...it's really lifting."
Luke almost openly raged in frustration. Was the Council and everyone else in this blasted Temple so obtuse they couldn't see one of their fellow Jedi needed help? The Chosen One of all people? If one person, just one, had bothered to assist Anakin with these feelings maybe his own time wouldn't have turned out the way it did.
Then again I'm the only one he currently trusts around here. He'd still get expelled for admitting to being married even now
It then finally occurred to him these were the same emotions his nephew experienced before his own fall. He'd failed to do anything about that either. The same cycle repeating itself over and over again. His own arrogance was no better than that of those he criticized.
Ben was my fault. I will not do the same with my father
"Don't be sorry," he said gently. "To carry that around for all this time...I couldn't imagine."
Actually, he could but that was beside the point.
"Never hesitate to come find me. Even with all the war meetings," he added with a smile.
He could sense his father's fear and burdensome mindset slowly fade away.
"You're one of a kind, Luke. But please, don't tell anyone yet. After the war is over, I'll speak my truth and position to the Council and accept the outcome one way or the other. But for right now, keep it between us."
"My lips are sealed," Luke assured him. "But you also might want to consider telling Obi-Wan."
Anakin didn't look thrilled at that prospect.
"I don't know if that's a good idea. He wouldn't understand. We haven't spoken in weeks."
"It's up to you of course. Nevertheless, he might understand better than you think. And I know for a fact he misses you."
"I miss him too," Anakin admitted.
"Then what are you waiting for?"
"Well…I was wondering if you could teach me that technique."
Luke was surprised at this development but welcomed it all the same. Any protection against the dark side and Sidious by extension, he welcomed the opportunity to pass it onto his beloved father.
"I'd be happy to. But it requires a certain level of spiritual discipline. Many have told me that's not your strong suit," he tried to joke.
However, Anakin's face appeared set and determined.
"I'll do whatever it takes."
It was all the blond needed to hear.
"Come. Sit."
He gestured down on the floor where both men took zen positions.
"Close your eyes. Concentrate all your energy and focus into the Force. Take deep breaths, slow and steady."
Anakin followed this direction correctly. Luke could sense him relaxing already.
"Excellent. Now repeat this mantra: The Force is with me and I am one with the Force."
"The Force is with me and I am one with the Force."
"Again."
The mantra was repeated for several minutes until Luke told him merely to say it internally inside his head.
"Keep the breathing steady. Now picture Padme standing before you. Feel the fear surrounding us? Instead turn to love, focus on how much she means to you. Kindness, bravery, generosity...all traits she represents."
The goal was not to have his father 'let go' of his fear but instead neutralize and block it by focusing on positive emotions within the light side of the Force. It was an alternate method of keeping the darkness at bay he designed specifically for this purpose based on what the ghost of Yoda taught him during their sessions.
"She's there...I can see her."
"Yes. Know that love is far more powerful than fear. She will always be with you."
A third round of tears began streaming down Anakin's face but they were ones of happiness and joy. Luke took heart that he already felt his father's mood drastically change from that of the earlier negativity, to one of relief, calm, and remorse. He hoped that his latest push would finally get Obi-Wan and Anakin to admit each one violated the code and now were graced with the opportunity of reforming the Jedi Order.
But even if that didn't happen, he took solace in the conversation that just occurred. Of all the battles ever fought and all the ones yet to come, the one for his father's soul was the most important.
And he would not under any circumstance lose it to Sidious.
Obi-Wan furrowed his brow. Something about the current pattern of the Clone Wars baffled him. The Separatists were losing manpower and resources with each passing day yet the amount of offensives undertaken by Dooku had doubled in the last week mostly in the Outer Rim. Cody noticed it too.
"This is strange, even for a war such as this one where there are no shortage of surprises," he said, rubbing his chin.
"I agree. Logistically speaking it doesn't make sense," Cody concurred. "It's like he's...not even trying to win."
"Dooku has made it quite plain he's content with killing as many Jedi and clones as possible for his own satisfaction. But he's also the leader of a breakaway political movement seeking independence. This isn't a very effective way of doing that."
Not for the first time, Maul's words came back to haunt him. That idea that both sides were being played by a manipulative Sith Lord seemed more plausible every single day. He could envision a shadowy figure behind the Separatist brutality, after all Dooku had spoken of a Darth Sidious on Geonosis even if he hadn't believed it at the time. But who would be the equivalent on the Republic side? How had such darkness influenced not only the Senate but the Jedi?
All questions that remained unanswered at present. But with each passing minute Obi-Wan became ever skeptical of the role he played in this conflict.
Should I tell Luke and Anakin about Maul's prophecy? The Council? Perhaps I made a mistake in keeping that to myself
Anakin didn't even want to talk to him right now. He'd just received a scolding at the hand of Satine over the issue.
'Forget me for a second, Obi-Wan. I understand why you cut things off even if I don't agree with it. But Ahsoka told me all about your feud with Anakin.'
'It's purely a Jedi affair.'
'That is complete lunacy and you know it. Padme Amidala is a shriveled mess and I can't imagine Anakin is in better shape. You're his former master. His friend. Please help him.'
'Do you realize how serious this is? They could be exposed. We could be exposed.'
'There are more important things in this life than codes, Obi. They don't always correspond with the ethical thing to do. And right now, Anakin and Padme need us.'
She was right of course. But what was he to do? He couldn't force his former padawan to open up if he didn't want to. From experience, if one desired to convince Anakin of anything, the last thing you did was force the issue. And didn't Padme have a say in this? Would she want to risk their relationship going public?
He shook his head, deciding to ponder that later and return his attention to the matter at hand. They were currently in Cody's office within the barracks of the 212th going over a holomap of the latest fronts combined with intelligence reports.
"Looks like these new assaults are going to stretch us pretty thin," Cody commented. "We can contain it but we'll need every man and Jedi available."
"Then we best start drafting up some battle strategies just in case. Algorithms from the Separatists are notoriously tricky."
"I'll make the contingencies no problem. There are several planets of interest in this sector-"
Just then a sound rang out indicating someone was at the door.
"Yes, come in."
To Obi-Wan's surprise, Anakin stepped in the room.
"Apologies for interrupting, Commander. But may I speak to Master Kenobi alone for a moment?"
His tone was light and suggested nothing of seeking out an argument.
"Of course, General. I'll give you two some time."
Cody pretended that the occasion was nothing out of the ordinary. But all commanders close to their Jedi knew many of their personal details. Considering his friendship with Rex, their stalemate exacerbated the awkwardness between the 501st and 212th, especially since the battle on Ringo Vinda. Nevertheless, he said nothing.
"Something on your mind?" Obi-Wan asked politely enough but with caution. Thankfully he need not worry.
"Master, I came to apologize."
The redhead's expression turned into one of pleasant surprise.
"For the past few weeks I've been arrogant, unwise, and completely caught up in my own selfishness. My new position has been unfortunately stressful, the Council doesn't seem to trust me and…"
It seemed like he wanted to say more but he didn't need to. Obi-Wan had already forgiven him.
"It's alright, Anakin," Obi-Wan told him warmly.
"It's not alright and doesn't excuse my behavior. But as much as I complain or act disrespectful sometimes, I don't mean to. The last thing I want is to be a disappointment."
The Master placed a hand on top of his old friend's shoulder in what passed for affection among Jedi and beamed through his fiery, copper tinged beard.
"You'll never have to worry about disappointing me. I am more proud of you than you could imagine."
Gratitude and happiness graced the brunette's handsome face. But for a split second he looked as though he very much wanted to say more.
"Anakin...is there something else you want to talk about?"
"No, Master. Thank you as always for believing in me."
He bowed deeply and left the room. But as he did so, Obi-Wan sighed as regret took hold once more. It was always the things left unsaid that spoke loudest.
"Wait."
Anakin stepped back into the room, curiosity lingering in his blue eyes.
"There is something I must say and I want you to hear it from me."
Here goes nothing. What the blazes am I getting into?
"It's about Satine and I."
Anakin leaned forward, waiting for the exclamation point on this very sensitive topic.
"You know that the two of us harbored strong feelings for each other. Those feelings were…acted upon while Master Qui-Gon and I were assigned to Mandalore."
Flabbergasted didn't begin to describe his protege's reaction.
"You're…you're serious?"
"As serious as I can be about anything."
The air turned to one of slight embarrassment as each man struggled to find adequate ways of self expression.
"I um…that's great."
"Anakin, the reason I'm telling you this is because I want you to be able to trust me. Whatever your situation with Padme-"
The brunette made a noise of interruption but Obi-Wan held up a hand.
"Let me finish. It is not my place to interfere in your private life. But should you need someone to confide in please know that I will never betray your confidence."
Anakin's apprehension was easy to sense but there was also a kernel of trust. Of goodwill. He visibly relaxed and the stress seemed to melt off.
"Thank you, Master. I appreciate it."
"You're welcome."
His former padawan left, leaving Obi-Wan to debate just how effective taking that approach had been.
You weren't exactly the smoothest talker back there
It wasn't the entire truth. Talking about Satine had been in the past tense and not in the context of a current relationship. An old habit stuck in the rut of orthodoxy…and the potential consequences for them both if they admitted to violating it.
He took a breath and allowed the Force to calm his nerves. It was a start. His two favorite people were both back in his life and it would be enough for now. Something positive to build on.
Sighing, he wondered again if Luke Ahch-To may be right. But he could dwell on that later. Switching off the holo monitor, the Great Negotiator yawned.
"Well, Cody. I believe it's time for us to retire. I'll be back."
"Why does it sound like you're leaving us, sir?"
"Because I am. At least for a short while. It's long past due since I had a vacation."
Cody nodded in understanding.
"If anyone's earned it, it's you, sir. I'll keep things in pristine shape while you're gone."
"Of that, I have little doubt."
Then came something uncharacteristic of his second command. A question rooted in curiosity, not clarification.
"If I may be so bold, sir…where are you going?"
Obi-Wan gave a devious smirk.
"I've heard the beaches of Spira are a wonderful place to be at this current point in their seasonal rotation. But you didn't hear that from me. If anyone asks, you're spot checking my gear."
With a sly wink, his heart backflipped at the thought of spending time with Satine Kryze, just the two of them, alone on some beach…all to themselves.
Yes, to be in love was a truly wonderful feeling.
Fives had seen all manner of things in war. Sometimes the most frightening aspect wasn't death, but the unexpected horrors it created in a person's mind.
Even so, Tup should not have been screaming the way he was.
"NO! NO! Get away from me!"
"Tup! What's going on?!"
The barracks were dark but Kix soon switched on the light. Tup gripped the sides of his bed in absolute terror, a crazed look in his eye as though everyone around him were a demon of untold evil. By now the entire barracks had awoken to witness the ruckus.
"The mission! The mission!"
"Tup, what mission? What are you talking about?"
Fives tried to place a hand on his friend but he violently rejected it, thrashing about like a madman.
"No! Don't make me! I won't do it! I won't do it!"
By this time, Hardcase and Echo jumped down and began restraining Tup though he put up quite a fight.
"No one's making you do anything, mate. It's alright."
"Fives...Fives…"
Tup's breathing started to slow as he rapidly glanced around the room and saw himself surrounded by familiar faces.
"What is it, Tup? I'm here."
"Nightmares...the nightmares...the mission...you know the one."
Fives had knelt down and grabbed his hand in a show of support. He didn't understand what was going on. No clone he ever met, regardless of rank or experience, had ever received a nightmare like that before.
"Fives, what's going on here?" Jesse asked him, rushing over in his skivvies.
"I don't know. We were all asleep until Tup started freaking out."
"Do you know the reason?"
"No, he's pretty incoherent. He keeps going on about...the mission."
Jesse looked dumbfounded.
"Mission? What mission?"
"I don't know. But whatever it is, it's nothing good."
The two clones looked back at Tup who had finally settled back into bed. Kix administered a cooling pack. Fives decided to find out more.
"Tup, are you back to yourself?"
"I...I think so," Tup replied, his breathing still quite heavy.
"What happened? What were you dreaming about?"
To Fives's surprise, his friend shook his head as though he couldn't remember correctly.
"It's all...fuzzy. We were being forced to do something….kill someone...against our will...on behalf of someone else."
Fives and Echo shared a concerned glance. It was all quite vague. Even so, being forced to kill sounded rather ominous.
"I'm alright now," Tup tried to reassure them. "Just a one off thing. No big deal."
No one among the company believed that deep down but no one wanted to be pulled off the line either. The men of the 501st prided themselves on not taking a second more off duty than was allowed. And though they technically were free men, it had been ingrained in every clone to avoid being seen as...defective.
"You sure?" Jesse asked him.
"Yeah, I'm fine. I'm sorry for waking everyone."
The incident being over, the lieutenant turned around and ordered everyone to return to their bunks.
"Alright, show's over. Back to sleep."
Fives, however, suddenly remembered General Luke asking them if anyone ever experienced stress, tremors, or strange dreams in their company. Somehow, the question didn't feel like a coincidence.
"It's happening."
"I know."
"Do you think we should tell Rex about this?" he asked Echo as they hopped into bed.
"Hey, we agreed. We wait until General Luke is reinstated," his best friend replied, sounding more hopeful than sure.
"And what if the petition doesn't work?"
Ominous silence between them left no answers.
"This could just be a standard nightmare," his brother offered as an explanation.
"We don't get nightmares, Echo. Not the kind he's having."
Something didn't sit right with the longtime ARC Trooper as he lay there and gazed up at the ceiling. For the sake of his brother and friend, he hoped it was just a simple bad dream. But as he dozed off back to sleep, Tup's distress began to haunt him as well.
He did not like the sound of this so-called mission.
Next update: Mid-October. And I may have an extra surprise for you guys.
Rock on!
~The Wasp