Alright, so some of you may not like me after this chapter haha. That being said, I make no apologies. The pacing has a purpose.
This update was originally going to be over 15,000 words but that was far too long for multiple reasons. So this is what I call a 'bridge' chapter. It ties in the next part of the plot. But as a trade off, it will answer some questions a few of you have had about the overall plot...and lead to more questions XD
Anyway, nothing more that needs to be said. Enjoy!
"Don't be surprised at Fortune's twists and turns. That wheel has spun a thousand yarns before."- Hafez
Chapter 34. Unexpected Guests
The relationship between Jedi and dreams had been a curious one for many millennia. Some were so obsessed with interpreting their meaning, they devoted themselves entirely to the topic, filling vast sections of the archives with holocrons. Others rarely or never received them. So when one did occur it was usually quite vivid as it was in the case of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Standing in the middle of a grassy field, which could be any field on any planet with basic ingredients for life, he looked up in awe at the sky. On the one side was the essence of all things great and good, pure sunlight beamed down on the vegetation, the buzzards and beautiful creatures flying in and around his head. To the west stood a lake, crystal blue, which lay at the foot of an incredible mountain, peaked with snow and dotted with all kinds of trees. A meadow sloped down to a beautiful lake surrounded by the most beautiful green grass he'd ever laid eyes on.
On the other side, however, lay an intense darkness. Gray, puffy clouds that looked as though they were made of poison were moving in fast, covering at least half the sky but threatening to engulf it in its entirety. Thunder echoed across the landscape while flashes of lightning touched down miles away. To the east, the land grew barren and rocky and led to the foot of another mountain, only this one was an active volcano which rumbled and groaned, ready to burst at a moment's notice, thick smoke churning out every second.
Obi-Wan could feel the essence of the Force quite strongly here. Light and dark, good and evil, in a constant struggle with one another but ultimately creating balance. But the darkness had its sights on the light, its pattern angry, aggressive and ready to consume all in its path. So powerful it was, the Jedi Master's bones rattled and a great wind blew back his auburn locks.
"What is this place?" he wondered aloud.
"Not so much a place as a symbol," a voice answered, one he hadn't heard in thirteen years. "A symbol of the Force. And of the present moment."
"It can't be," Obi-Wan whispered. "Master?"
Suddenly, the image of Qui-Gon Jinn appeared just as he had on Mortis- only this time he wasn't translucent but solid with no blueish haze surrounding him. He didn't look a day older than the moment he died.
"Hello, Obi-Wan," he said with a smile.
"Is...is it really you? This isn't some trick of the mind? Or a dream?"
"No, it is not a trick. It is not a dream either. This place is a medium in which we can communicate when it otherwise would not be possible."
The redhead swallowed, hardly daring to believe this was real.
"And...how are you here if you're dead?"
Though no longer alive, the ghost of Qui-Gon took the ghostly equivalent of a breath as if trying to figure out how best to explain the situation.
"Many years ago I received special training from a group of supernatural beings. Training that would enable me to retain my consciousness after I passed from this world. But my knowledge was incomplete, and since then I've devoted my energies to finishing what I started as a young man."
"That still doesn't make sense," Obi-Wan mused. "What was this training? When things die they pass into the Living Force and cannot return."
Qui-Gon gave a wry smile as a teacher would to a student unaware of something important yet wonderful.
"I am a manifestation of the Force which consists of two parts: the Living as you mentioned and the Cosmic. Those alive generate the Living Force which in turn powers the wellspring of the Cosmic Force."
Obi-Wan thought he was beginning to understand but he wanted to be sure. Every Jedi worth their salt knew about the Living Force. But it all sounded quite abstract.
"And the Cosmic Force is how you are speaking to me?"
"Somewhat, yes. All energy from the Living Force, from all things that have ever lived, feeds into the Cosmic Force, binding everything, and communicating to us through the midi-chlorians. It's not...a straightforward topic," Qui-Gon added with some amusement.
"Certainly not. But you are real?"
"As real as anything."
Obi-Wan, a man who prided himself on a certain degree of stoicness, suddenly felt overcome with emotion.
"Qui-Gon," he croaked. "I….I'm sor-"
"There is no need to apologize, my former padawan," he interrupted, holding up a hand.
"But there is something I could have done...had I reached you in time I could have saved you."
Qui-Gon's expression became sad, even penitent.
"I was arrogant. I took on a younger, fresher Sith warrior believing my experience and prowess as a Jedi would win the day. What happened all those years ago on Naboo was largely my fault. And by extension I am also partially responsible for events as they are now."
Obi-Wan shook his head emphatically.
"No, Master. You couldn't possibly have known what was to come."
"Perhaps. I was considered something of a maverick in my time, but the complacency that currently plagues the Order also ran in my veins as well, though maybe to a lesser degree. It is only after death that I have been able to gain a better perspective."
He looked intently at his former padawan as if to say 'do not blame yourself for my mistakes.'
"You have trained Anakin well and done the absolute best you could given the circumstances. For that, I am proud."
"I don't feel as if I've earned it," the redhead sighed. "He succeeds in so many ways. But he has struggled to find himself. That falls on me."
"No, Obi-Wan, it falls on me. We both know that had things played out as they were supposed to, I would have been the one to train Anakin. But we cannot dwell too much on the past, for it is the here and now that is of most concern. And that is why I have come before you. To issue guidance and a warning."
That the essence of his old master somehow cheated death and came back all this way was nothing short of miraculous to the Great Negotiator. It also spoke to the seriousness of the situation.
"What guidance do you have, Master?" he asked though he had an inkling of what the topic would be.
"The dark side grows stronger every day," Qui Gon told him grimly. "It has been a long time in the making but now threatens to engulf the entire galaxy and set the Force permanently out of balance."
"I have been feeling it for some time," Obi-Wan nodded. "All among the Jedi have."
"Yet many also remain ignorant of the growing storm. Take this place for example. It is symbolic of the present day."
Obi-Wan could see that now. The light, beautiful and serene as it was, also seemed blissfully unaware of the violent storm heading towards it. Soon, all the land would be as barren and dry as the eastern portion, destroyed by the raging storm and the volcano set to erupt.
"It is the work of the Sith. That much we are sure of."
"This entire war is the work of the Sith," Qui-Gon informed him. "The Jedi and the Republic became ripe for corruption and the consequences have been dire. Which brings me to my warning: Anakin."
Obi-Wan's heart skipped a beat.
"What of him?"
"He is in grave danger. Of all beings that currently exist in the galaxy, evil surrounds and threatens him the most."
That definitely sent the redhead's anxiety up a few notches.
"Anakin has always been troubled. Even now, I can sense conflict within. But he is a great Jedi and an even better person. Surely the dark side wouldn't tempt him."
"Light and dark exist within all beings, Obi-Wan. Even the very wise such as Yoda or Mace Windu. Anakin is no different. The balance that eludes him is not uncommon for a man or Jedi his age. But his power and ability make him extremely dangerous were he to fall."
That certainly didn't make Obi-Wan feel better as he ran a hand through his hair. Flecks of gray had started to appear on the sideburns. Force, this war had aged him so. Another year may as well have been taken off.
"So it's true then. Anakin is The Betrayer."
Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow.
"Betrayer? No, Anakin has not betrayed anything or anyone."
"But the Prophecy…"
A whimsical smile graced Qui-Gon's face.
"Ah, yes you are referring to the one Maul told you about."
He then proceeded to repeat it back word for word.
"That's it," Obi-Wan replied sadly. "I thought Maul was lying."
"No, he did not lie. Merely misinterpret the contents. Anakin is still the Chosen One and destined to bring balance to the Force."
"How did he come to know of this new Prophecy before any Jedi did?"
"The Force works in mysterious ways, however Maul is trapped within a prison of his own making, a slave to the dark side. It is possible that he caught a glimpse of the Sith's plan as it was in motion. But that is only one outcome, not the inevitable future as he believes."
This is becoming more and more confusing with each passing second.
"As for the Jedi, I tried to reach Yoda with this message a couple of months back. Though due to the shroud of the dark side, I could only convey a partial version."
"You've been in contact with Master Yoda?"
The question sounded ridiculous, almost as though he were a fresh faced padawan once more instead of the bearded veteran he'd become over the years. Masters tended to have that effect on their students even after parting.
"He did not know it was me, unfortunately. But to answer your question, Obi-Wan, yes Anakin's destiny is intact. Whether it occurs tomorrow, next week, a month, a year, or twenty is still unknown. I do not have the omnipotent power of foresight. The Force shows us shadows...glimpses of what is to come. The dark side has clouded that ability amongst the Jedi but it cannot prevent Anakin from doing what he needs to."
"You said Anakin might very well fall."
"He could," Qui-Gon put far too simply for such a disastrous prospect. "Not everything occurs in a linear fashion the way we envision. Destiny is often what we make of it but there are those who were born to do great things. It is my belief Anakin is one of those people. But his choices will ultimately decide whether he achieves inner peace...or suffers greatly."
Obi-Wan supposed that made sense but it didn't stop him from worrying. How could his best friend and brother possibly turn to the dark side?
The storm clouds above grew thicker and stronger and moved to completely block all light from penetrating. Rumbling from the gargantuan volcano shook the ground as if to warn all in its path to run.
"The Sith have had their eyes on Anakin since they became aware of him," Qui-Gon answered, as though he read his mind. "As you correctly stated, he is an incredible Jedi whose intentions are pure, but even the best of intentions can be led astray. Twisted and manipulated into acts of evil."
A cold breeze from the east chilled Obi-Wan's bones and the storm moved closer overhead, though he ignored it for now.
"I fear that he may already have been lost to us were it not for certain people in his life. Namely Padme Amidala, with whom he shares a bed."
Qui-Gon eyed him knowingly.
"Indeed. He loves his wife, and though that devotion can also be manipulated, love is the greatest power in the universe. One that transcends not only the Force, but life, even time itself."
Thinking of how much he loved Satine and how he'd go to the ends of the galaxy and back for her, the Jedi Master thought back to the very same quote Luke told him the night he broke his oath to the Order.
"I've been...figuring that out lately."
"You are referring to the being known as Luke Ahch-To."
"Yes. He was also mentioned by Maul in our last little conversation as the true Chosen One. But if that distinction belongs to Anakin, what does that make Luke?"
"A hero," Qui-Gon stated plainly. "That is whom the Prophecy speaks of. Anakin's destiny is to bring balance. For Luke, he is the representation of light and all that is good within the galaxy. A counterbalance to the growing darkness."
Obi-Wan couldn't help but rub his beard, analyzing the overwhelming amount of new information he'd just received. The ominous storm clouds, consuming everything in their path, started to recede. The wind began to die and the volcano's plumes ceased from its basin. The Sun broke through the clouds in a dazzling display of pure light.
"I am constantly amazed by his strength and compassion. He has been a friend to Anakin in a way Ahsoka and I could never be. His power in the Force is incredible. In fact the only one who matches it is…"
"Anakin himself," Qui-Gon finished for him. "Indeed Luke is more powerful than almost any Jedi alive. The dark side holds little sway over him. And their bond through the Force is uniquely strong."
"Who is he, Master?" Obi-Wan asked bluntly, his patience in figuring out the mystery wearing thin. "There are moments where I feel like I've known him my entire life and yet his true origins have yet to be revealed."
For once, his old master did not seem to know the answer.
"I must confess that goes beyond my knowledge, my former padawan. What I can tell you is this: Luke Ahch-To is no ordinary Jedi. His presence here has altered the course of many things. In other words, he represents a vergence in the Force."
"A vergence?" Obi-Wan repeated. "You mean…"
"He is the source of the ripple felt many months ago, yes."
The redhead didn't know how much more of these revelations he could take though he supposed Luke causing a ripple made sense given his unexpected arrival out of nowhere. But his master's answer only led to more questions.
"I don't understand," he finally said, feeling mentally exhausted.
"There are many things in the universe we do not understand, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said to him soothingly. "Even for a supernatural being such as myself. Luke Ahch-To remains a mystery to us all. Yet he is the galaxy's last hope for survival."
He placed a translucent hand on top of his former student, a rush of warmth spreading forth. By now, the storm had receded, the light became stronger, and the volcanic ash no longer erupting. Peace reigned in this strange place.
"Master, what should I do?"
"You must learn to know without knowing. Remain in the present moment as I taught you. Luke's presence in the galaxy may be seemingly out of nowhere, but it is the will of the Force. Trust in it and trust in him."
"And what of Anakin?"
"Stay by his side whenever possible. Assist him in any way and beware the Sith. Soon, very soon they will attempt to sway him to the dark side."
Qui-Gon looked up and the light soon faded into the evening which rapidly descended into dusk. The clouds fully evaporated, revealing the full depth of the sky stretching over the wondrous landscape. Both sensed the energy of the mysterious plain fading.
"Our time together is coming to an end, Obi-Wan," he said as the darkness retracted, revealing a clear night sky dotted by twinkling stars.
"But what if I have more questions? I only just found you."
There was real pain and sorrow in Obi-Wan's voice. To have the only man he knew as a father so cruelly taken from him...it was Naboo all over again.
"What you need is already inside you, And do not weep for me a second time, Obi-Wan. You will see me again sooner than you think. Go make the galaxy a better place."
He gave one last smile before lightly touching his padawan's forehead.
"And may the Force be with you."
A flash of light blinded Obi-Wan Kenobi and he knew no more.
The light, as it turned out, blinded him in the bedroom as well.
"Wake up, Obi."
Covering his eyes, he felt the softness of sheets, the comfort of a thick mattress, and blazing light entering the window that Satine had just drawn the shades back from.
"No. More sleep."
Satine gave a humorous chuckle as she walked back over in her silky nightgown and slid up next to him.
"I thought the Jedi were supposed to walk in the light."
"Yes, we walk in the light. We cannot sleep in it."
"You're impossible," she said, planting a kiss on his forehead all the same. "But you'll want to be awake for what I'm about to tell you."
Reluctantly, Obi-Wan adjusted himself, and rubbed his eyes in full anticipation of the news. Before that happened, however, there was a beep at the automatic door.
"Come in," Satine called out.
"Are you crazy we're both-"
Bo-Katan, still clad in her Night-Owl armor, entered the room. But far from being shocked she merely took in the scene as though watching a mildly interesting athletic competition.
Obi-Wan quickly pulled the covers over, but neither the Duchess nor her sister appeared perturbed.
"You know I can see you right?" Bo deadpanned.
"Satine, is this really the best time to tell your sister about our relationship?" the Jedi asked, his face beet red. "Not to mention when I'm not wearing any clothes?"
"Oh suck it up, Kenobi. Do you really think I didn't know already?"
"I...umm…"
"You overestimate the amount of fucks I give. Which is to say none at all."
Obi-Wan peeked back over the covers but not before muttering, "At least I have one to give."
"What was that?"
"Enough you two," Satine intervened. "It's too early for this kind of snippiness. I called you in here for a reason."
"Well don't keep me in suspense. What is it?" Bo asked pointedly.
The Duchess finished putting her hair into a messy updo before continuing.
"You both have played a vital role in helping me regain the throne of Mandalore. For that, you have my eternal gratitude."
She turned towards Obi-Wan and the love in her eyes could not have been more evident.
"I have thought about this a great deal, well before the invasion actually. It's not a decision I take lightly. But my time, my place among the Mandalorian people requires me to be elsewhere. Starting today, I officially abdicate my title and role as Duchess of Mandalore."
The shock of such a declaration registered among both redheads in the room.
"Surely, you're joking?" Obi-Wan asked.
"I am not."
Bo-Katan sighed, undoubtedly a bit miffed about her sister's decision.
"Satine, I just went through hell and back to liberate Mandalore from Almec and Maul for your sake and our people's. Who will lead us now?"
"You."
Bo's expression would have been amusing to Obi-Wan were it not for the seriousness of the topic. Actually it was still amusing.
"Me?"
"Bo, though we have had our disagreements in the past it is clear to me that you are the right kind of leader our people need. Strong and willing to fight for Mandalore."
"I thought you didn't believe in fighting," her sister responded a bit skeptically.
"I don't believe in gratuitous violence. But self defense? Yes. The recent Siege and the consequences it's had on our planet have helped me to realize this. We cannot be taken advantage of again. My failure to do what was necessary in protecting the citizenry from Pre Vizsla still echoes in the hearts and minds of many."
Satine walked over and placed her hands on top of Bo's shoulders.
"You are my sister. There is no one more deserving or more suitable for the job. Will you accept?"
Bo, still not quite sure what to make of this sudden change in events, nevertheless, did so.
"I do."
"Then kneel."
She complied, falling on her left while Satine made the formal declaration.
"By the power in me and the laws of Mandalore, I hereby abdicate my title and rank as Duchess. As per Mandalorian royal decree, it shall now pass to the first in line, this being my sister Bo-Katan Kryze. Do you promise to safeguard our people in times of war, peace, and conduct yourself with honor and loyalty to the clan?"
Bo's unwavering response only confirmed that commitment.
"I will."
"You now kneel to no man or woman. Rise Bo-Katan Kryze, new Duchess of Mandalore."
Standing up once more, real emotion could be seen in the redhead's vibrant green eyes, a mix of gratitude, love, and respect the warrior struggled to convey. But she didn't need to, the smile on Satine's face spoke louder than any speech.
"You realize that what we just did is in no way official until you make this public and it's presided over by the Ruling Council, right?"
"Of course," the elder sister said teasingly. "But I had to give it my own personal touch."
Obi-Wan watched the tender scene play out but he felt the need to point something out.
"I hate to rain on this ceremonious moment, but I do have to ask. If Bo is now Duchess what does that make you? Are you going to retire into private life?"
His girlfriend didn't stop smiling, if anything it grew bigger.
"There are other ways I can be of use. My career in public service is not at an end quite yet."
"And how do you figure?"
"I may not be the best person to rule Mandalore but I can still represent them. Especially as a Senator in the Galactic Republic."
Right away Obi-Wan could tell the newly crowned Duchess did not like this idea.
"Satine, Mandalore has remained a neutral system for centuries. We cannot trade that to be occupied by a government we do not want and never did."
"There is no remaining neutral anymore. You saw what happened after Almec signed the treaty with the Republic, Maul came right back and took over again. We need to be on the side of integrity and of principle."
Bo snorted so loudly, it was a wonder she kept her own composure.
"You really believe the Republic to be a government of integrity and principle?"
"No, but I do believe in Obi-Wan and the Jedi by extension. They are not our enemies any longer, Bo. It is time we moved past that grudge."
"Joining the Republic means we have to participate in every facet of their institutions, including military support, taxes, allowing clones to be stationed at our bases, and a hundred other things that make me want to retch."
"That's not necessarily true," Obi-Wan suddenly interjected.
"Oh? Do correct me if I'm wrong," Bo snarked.
"While it is true joining the Republic requires certain dues, there is an option to opt out of military or base occupation. In other words, a member state that collects and pays taxes but also benefits from hyperspace trade routes. It would purely be civilian in nature."
That seemed to move the needle but not enough.
"We are a proud people and do not require anyone else's assistance," Bo insisted.
"I have no doubt of your people's resolve," Obi-Wan commented sincerely. "But they also need aid. The years of civil war have ravaged your world. There is no dishonor asking for help when rebuilding."
Satine jumped in to make the final case.
"It works out for everyone, Bo. You get to lead, I get to represent and our citizens have a chance at a speedier recovery, saving thousands of lives. And...I cannot lie being closer in proximity to Obi-Wan is also a benefit."
The two smiled affectionately at each other, which ironically seemed to be what pushed Bo-Katan over the edge.
"Alright, fine," she said in a huff. "We will be commerce members only. If I receive a guarantee that your clones will leave and not become an occupying force, I should be able to convince the Ruling Council and our new Prime Minister to go along."
"You have my word," Obi-Wan told her, bringing as much conviction to his voice as he could. "The Grand Army of the Republic will leave Mandalore. And you will rule in peace...Duchess."
That did the trick.
"Then we are agreed."
"I'd get up to shake on it but-"
"Please, I've already seen enough," Bo said, holding up a hand. "Satine, as the new Duchess I appoint you as Mandalore's senior Senator in the Galactic Republic."
Satine hugged her tightly.
"Thank you, sister."
"No need to thank me, I'm not as formal as you are about these things."
However, Bo subtly returned the gesture by placing two hands around her back, their relationship officially rekindled.
"Well, I'll leave you two be. There's much to do and I'm sure you two will want more 'alone time.'"
Upon leaving, Obi-Wan couldn't help but shake his head in amusement.
"The same as she ever was. Though I must admit, Bo has grown on me. I'm sure she'll make a fine ruler. And you a fine Senator."
"Yes, I am very much looking forward to returning to Coruscant with my beloved," Satine replied, slinking back over to the bed.
"I am beginning to believe you resigned your position as Duchess simply to spend more time with me."
"I'd be a terrible liar if I said that had nothing to do with it," she replied, making her way on top of him. "You have a big announcement to make Obi-Wan Kenobi. There's no hiding it this time."
"Yes, I suppose word of our relationship will eventually reach the Holonet," the redhead admitted even knowing he might be expelled from the Order even now. "To be honest, it's about time I admitted it anyway."
"Glad you finally see things my way."
"Well then, shall we get dressed?"
A mischievous smile crossed Satine's lips.
"I was thinking we could stay in just a little while longer."
"Is that an order?"
"What if it is?"
"Tut, tut. You are no longer a Duchess but a Senator. Ordering me is not the way to ask my dear."
She slowly began gently kissing him on his neck while running her soft, delicate hands up the base of his leg.
"How about that? Is that a proper method of asking?"
He responded by pulling her on top of him, fully engaged in the thralls of passion.
Luke and Qui-Gon had been right. Love truly was the greatest thing in the universe.
*beep beep
And comlinks by comparison were the worst things in the universe.
"Obi…"
"I'm sorry but I can't ignore this."
He groaned with great reluctance as he reached over the side of the bed inside his robe pocket.
"Kenobi here."
"Master. I hope I haven't woken you."
Anakin did not sound apologetic. In fact Obi-Wan could practically see the grin on his face on the other end.
"No, no. I'm up. I'm certainly not doing anything important."
"Good because you're needed at the south docks. Apparently, we have an unexpected guest."
"Guest?"
"I'll explain when you get here. Anakin out."
The line went dead and Obi-Wan sighed.
"I can never have nice things, can I?"
"Untrue, darling," Satine purred, pulling back towards her. "Skywalker can go without your presence for five minutes, can't he?"
He kissed her passionately. Anakin had kept him waiting plenty of times. Why not add a little payback?
Where is he?
It usually didn't take long to find a Jedi (they were pretty distinguishable from most people) especially on a military landing dock. Anakin had specifically gotten up early in order to check that things were still in order and no fire fights had broken out. Now that the main battle was over several things remained unresolved namely what to do with Maul, the status of Republic troops on Mandalore, and above all else, feeding and providing for thousands of displaced people whose homes were now little more than rubble. Lo and behold an unexpected guest was due to arrive at any time.
He'd called Luke, Ahsoka, Plo Koon, and Obi-Wan the latter of whom he planned to catch up with as soon as time permitted. Almost a week and a half had passed since they last saw each other but it felt longer.
"Sir."
A couple men of the 501st saluted as they walked by which he returned. He did miss his old legion, but again it had only been a week since handing the keys over to Luke. Time really did have a way of passing by quickly or not at all.
The same conflicted feelings arose once more at the thought of the blond Jedi but not as intensely as the day before. There were still questions to be answered. However, Maul's deadly gambit had a way of putting things in perspective.
Luke could have been killed.
It felt odd to be that protective of someone twice as old as him, but Anakin's instincts were non negotiable. For better or worse that's how his mind operated. And the second Rex informed him Luke had been trapped inside a throne room with a murderous Sith psychopath, the reflexive fear of loss became so strong he'd been tempted to blaze a trail of destruction straight through the heart of Sundari to save him.
But the jealous heart still burned to know. Just what did Luke want with Padme?
"Master."
It was Ahsoka and Plo Koon. He was glad to see them even if two more were still missing.
"Ahsoka, Master Plo," he greeted respectfully. "I see you received my message."
"Of course, why wouldn't we?"
Anakin opened his mouth to make a snarky comment about Obi-Wan but thought better of it, especially in front of Master Plo.
"Do you know what this is about, Skywalker?" the Kel Dor asked in his usual serene manner.
"As a matter of fact, I don't. I was only told by the Chancellor to receive a surprise guest and that new orders were coming in."
He noticed Ahsoka frowning at that bit of information, not dissimilar to the ones she used to give him as a fresh faced padawan. Evidently, Luke wasn't the only one who disapproved of Palpatine. A conversation for a later date.
"Huh, well that's certainly helpful. New orders and a new guest and not a clue as to either."
"Getting a little snippy there, huh?"
He didn't call her Snips. Not in front of a senior member of the Council. But the emphasis on the word definitely caught her attention and he couldn't help but shoot a sly grin. She didn't return it in full but felt the warmth in their bond.
"I would think the Chancellor might want to tell us who's coming so we can probably prepare for them."
"It is atypical," Master Plo rumbled. "I'm curious as to the reason for secrecy." He saw Commander Wolffe trying to grab his attention. "If you'll excuse me for a moment."
Anakin didn't necessarily disagree but he trusted Palpatine and that the man might have a good reason to show discretion. And besides, it's not like he was the only one who kept things close to the chest. Force knew the Jedi Council had lied to him enough times. It was a thought that evoked intense bitterness.
The bitterness evaporated upon a familiar face entering the docks. Obi-Wan's copper tinged hair made for a stark contrast amongst the armor and helmets donned by both clones and Mandalorians. He looked a bit tired (who among the Jedi didn't these days), but the kindly smile across his beard livened his face.
"Hello there, my old friend."
"Obi-Wan, it's good to see you."
They bowed respectfully to each other but Anakin sensed just how radiant his old master was. In fact, he had to search his own memory for the last time Obi-Wan felt an emotion this powerful. He wasn't just happy but glowing.
"Care to tell us what this is all about?"
"Certainly, but not before I issue a minor bit of payback: you're late."
Obi-Wan looked like he very much wanted to counter with a sharp retort of his own but the corners of his mouth twitched in amusement.
"I suppose I had that one coming. Now will you tell me why you called me here?"
"Hey, your guess is as good as mine."
Obi-Wan sighed at his protege's trolling.
"You're lucky I'm in a good mood."
He wasn't lying, and Anakin felt that acutely. The Jedi Council may act like a lofty, detached group of monks, wholly above sentiment but his master was not one of them. More than anyone, he remembered that Obi-Wan struggled heavily after the death of Qui-Gon thirteen years prior. He adhered to the Jedi Code with every fiber of his being but he was no droid lacking in sympathy, sorrow, or joy.
Ahsoka nudged him playfully.
"He isn't lying," she whispered. "I swear that vacation deaged him by three years."
Anakin took a glance at Obi-Wan, studying him closely. Some of the lines gained from battle after battle had receded and the slight amount of gray near the sideburns of his beard was far less prominent. A subtle hint of the old days sparked in his blue eyes, as it was before the war; relaxed and content. He explored deeper into their bond and it alerted Obi-Wan to his probing. There was no getting past the man.
"Anakin," he said slowly. "When you have a moment, we should talk."
"We?"
"All of us," Obi-Wan confirmed, taking a glance at Ahsoka. "That also includes Luke. Speaking of…" he scanned around the deck through the crowd of military activity. "Where is he?"
"Dunno," Anakin said with a half shrug. "I sent out the same message to everyone this morning."
"Are you quite sure?"
"Positive."
"Well maybe he didn't receive it," Ahsoka suggested lightly, playing the diplomat before the two men started bickering.
"I'll try him again."
Anakin prompted his comlink while Ahsoka and Obi-Wan turned towards each other.
"Good to see you again, Master."
"Likewise, Ahsoka."
It was a polite exchange but with careful undertones.
"Spira treated you well."
"It did. And among other things it opened my eyes to more than a few things. First and foremost, I owe you an apology."
Obi-Wan's eyes softened and aimed towards his former padawan.
"And I owe you one too, Anakin. All these years I've been lecturing instead of listening. It's time that changed."
Anakin hardly dared to believe his own ears. Everything he'd ever wanted to hear from his master, realized solely in dreams and idle daydreaming. Of all possible outcomes, an apology from Obi-Wan barely registered.
"Well…I-uh…great…um…what was that again?"
The words felt cumbersome on his lips and before he could reconnect the synapses of the brain, a clone sergeant cut in.
"Sir, an unidentified Nu-class Republic shuttle has requested to land. Should I order an intercept?"
The Jedi looked up and saw the steady descent of the gray transport through the thick, Mandalorian cloudbank. Obi-Wan narrowed his eyes, but Anakin waved them off.
"No need, Sergeant Hicks. I have a feeling this is the guest we've been waiting for."
"Whatever your premonition is, Skywalker, it's likely correct. Commander Wolffe just informed me of the identity of our new arrival," Plo Koon added, coming back to the group. He didn't sound thrilled.
The Force confirmed as much as the shuttle drew closer. Mandalorian dock workers were given the 'all-clear' and began guiding the ship towards the platform. As it touched down, Anakin sensed apprehension from his former master and padawan.
Exiting from the offramp came none other than Wilfhuff Tarkin, pressed, pomped, and preened as ever in a crisp, gray, officer's uniform. The man's demeanor was exactly as Anakin remembered. Calculating, always in tune with his surroundings. A sharp mind with an excellent memory. He might've made a good Jedi in another life.
Even so, he had mixed feelings towards the man. They shared a mutual respect and philosophy regarding the war. But this was also the same person who threw Ahsoka in detention without trial, and who planned on prosecuting her for a crime she didn't commit. Luke hated him and hatred did not come easily to the otherwise good natured blond.
He resolved to be cautious, a rare sentiment in the Chosen One.
"High General Skywalker. Good to see you."
"Admiral Tarkin."
The previous tranquility was quickly replaced by a considerable amount of tension. Obi-Wan appeared respectful but wary. Ahsoka's ire bordered on indignant fury.
"I have to admit, you've caught us a bit off guard. Chancellor Palpatine didn't inform us of your arrival until this morning in the rotation."
"The Chancellor has good reason for keeping some things on a need to know basis," came the somewhat haughty reply. "As you are aware, things change quickly in war."
"So why'd they send you?" Ahsoka barely contained her snarky disdain. "I thought you were a datapad pusher now."
Tarkin regarded her as a lion might regard a fly, though a flicker of irritation passed over his face.
"I see you have not lost your famous intransigence, Jedi Knight Tano."
"I see you have a stick up your-"
Obi-Wan quickly stepped in to prevent things from getting out of hand.
"Admiral, we only mean to say we are at a pivotal moment in the liberation of Mandalore and have little time to spare."
Tarkin straightened, as if about to give an important commencement speech.
"It's not merely a message but new orders."
"What kind of orders?" Anakin was really intrigued now. If nothing else to see what had changed to alter their mission so drastically.
"We received word that you subdued the Separatist Mandalorians and that renegade Maul is in custody. With my compliments." Anakin accepted the rare flattery. It wasn't lost on him that praise blatantly ignored Obi-Wan, Ahsoka, and the clones in their midst. "But there are other matters that require immediate Republic intervention. You are all to receive new assignments."
Tarkin stepped forward, knee high black boots clicking authoritatively as he did so.
"And by the way, I just received a promotion. You shall be referring to me as Adjutant General."
A/N #1: The dream world is a place extremely close to the Force and therefore Qui-Gon was able to talk to Obi-Wan without needing to appear as a ghost.
A/N #2: Satine can officially abidcate but will need to submit her resignation to the new Mandalorian government to make it official. She wanted to give her sister her due.
A/N #3: This is the one and only chapter without Luke in it. The main focus will return to his POV in the next chapter.
Speaking of which, the next chapter is already done and will be posted between March 14th-18th. That's a guarantee. This site's story stats aren't working again which is a pain in the ass, but I wanted to post this regardless.
Check out my instagram 'thewaspwrites' for a preview of the next chapter coming soon ;)
Rock on!
~The Wasp