Remember how I said the next chapter would be shorter than the last? That didn't happen lol. As it turns out, I have an inability to write a chapter under 10k words.
That being said, I'm super proud of this one and I look forward to seeing what you guys think. I consider this chapter the first in a series of feel good 'slice of life' epilogues. We're still in a sequential storyline, but that will begin to be phased out in favor of specific moments in Anakin's life (as well as Obi-Wan, Padme, and others) in the new future. And yes, there will be lots of fluff haha (as well as a couple of sad scenes too).
Once that happens, chapters will become shorter XD
I have some other surprises in store, but I can't reveal those just yet. In the meantime, enjoy and leave those reviews! :)
"Perhaps that is where our choice lies- in determining how we will meet the inevitable end of things, and how we will great each new beginning."- Elana K. Arnold
Chapter 48. Winds of Change
A little green being of an unknown species touched the ground after exiting an LAAT gunship. Multiple clones flanked his right and left, towering over the diminutive Jedi Master. Anyone unfamiliar with him might mistake that stature for vulnerability but as the Master often put it 'size matters not.'
His light green eyes, though capable of twinkling like the brightest star, were not shining today. Wisps of white hair sprouted from his head, indicating an age that far surpassed any human lifetime. Though he hobbled forward by use of a simple, wooden cane, not a single being within a radius had a fraction of the power or ability to take on Master Yoda.
The Grandmaster stared up at a massive tower, architecturally peculiar. A structure supported by an expansive base with four intersecting pillars holding up an even larger one. On top was a large dome and also the destination he sought.
Gray colored security clones (they had temporarily replaced their crimson brothers who were still in a specific undisclosed reprogramming) escorted him to the inside. Their leader, Captain Benson, gestured for only four men to follow while the rest waited outside.
"There are some real psychos in here, sir," the captain warned. "Many of them would love a shot at a Jedi."
Yoda showed no concern.
"Aware of that I am."
The Republic Judiciary Central Detention Center contained many notorious prisoners. A majority of these were Separatist war criminals deemed too insignificant to break out or negotiate for. Another sizeable chunk were bounty hunters, including Cad Bane, though he was still taking his meals through a straw. Complimenting this motley crew were various murderers, rapists, thieves, and thugs of all types.
Yoda also had a nasty feeling many of the beings inside were innocent, or at the very least, victims of the cruel game Sidious had played for decades. The Force spoke loudly at that intuition. He made a mental note to bring the matter to Bail Organa.
His escort was not needed, but he allowed them to do their duty. Automatic doors opened to reveal civilian human officers in gray uniforms. One of them, a tall man with a stern expression and receding gray areas, stepped forward.
"Master Yoda. You are here for visitation of prisoner four six eight dash one five. Do you understand that while we provide security, we cannot guarantee full safety and there is a risk of bodily harm. Is this clear?"
"Yes."
"Very well."
The warden stood aside, allowing him and the clones to pass. They walked down a sterile, isolated corridor until coming to a lift in the central part of the lower building. In seconds, they zoomed upwards.
Most prisoners were interned in the middle to lower levels of the facility. But the man Yoda sought out was at the very top of the high rise.
It took about a minute to reach the final floor and when Yoda stepped out, he was automatically scanned by two adjacent sensory alarms. One of them beeped.
"Your lightsaber, sir."
He complied. There would be no need for it anyway. Not this time.
Yoda edged down a short hallway into an observation chamber with a giant plexiglass window and a durasteel door. Two security officers asked for his clearance, which he dutifully gave (with a note of humor, he imagined just how impatient young Skywalker would be right now). One of them punched in a complex code and pressed a hand on a red detection pad.
"Just so you know, sir," Captain Benson said. "Dooku's unarmed and wears Force binding cuffs when outside of his cell. Security keeps an eye on him 24/7. He's powerless."
"Hmmm."
No Jedi or Sith was ever truly powerless. But as he consulted the Force, its guiding energy providing energy to his old bones, he found such a clarity not felt since before the Clone Wars. Decades even.
There was nothing to fear.
"Very well. Ready to see the prisoner, I am."
The door creaked open and Yoda walked down a small path, almost entirely white to the point of blinding whoever dared to enter. As his eyes adjusted, he saw a familiar figure behind another wall of glass, housed in a space about the size of a studio apartment- it had a bathroom, a cot, a sofa, living room, even a small table to eat meals.
The Republic Judiciary Detention Center also housed upper class prisoners- those who'd committed crimes such as fraud, tax evasion, political corruption, and embezzlement. A sign of privilege even in punishment. The man in front of him, however, was no crooked banker.
Count Dooku stood stock still, frowning an imperious gaze at the sight of his old Master. He wore an orange jumpsuit, a striking contrast to his usual elegant capes and robes. Yoda felt his bitterness, even a degree of resentment that was to be expected but not anger or outright hostility.
"Greetings, my old Master," he said in a slow baritone.
"Greetings, my old Padawan."
The two beings sized each other up for half a second. Yoda stopped five feet away from the glass but did not take his eye off Dooku. Instinct dictated he keep the gaze. The latter broke first.
"I knew you'd come."
"Sensed me you did?"
Dooku gave an haughty sniff. "I did not need the Force to predict your visitation. It has been…a long time."
Almost three years to be exact. But Yoda sensed meaning beyond the surface implication.
"Indeed."
Yoda's long lifespan gave him a perspective on things that most other species did not. And yet, despite knowing Dooku for many years as a student and an equal, the last three spent as enemies seemed to eclipse a half-century of friendship. When he didn't say anything else, Dooku hooked an eyebrow.
"Shouldn't you be out celebrating your victory?" It was a low taunt and the Grandmaster saw the sneer playing around his lips.
"Victory you say? Not victory. The Clone War, a lie it was."
"And yet the Republic Senate still saw fit to give you a medal of honor."
"No control I have over politics."
Dooku gave a small 'hmph' as his sneer widened. He turned to the side and began to pace the confines of his cell.
"I know the real reason for your presence, Master," and that word dripped with sarcasm. "Bail Organa and his new team of political allies have yet to figure a way out of the current maze they find themselves in. This includes dealing with Gunray and the millions of battle droids still in operation."
Yoda decided to drop all pretenses. "Asked you were if there was a shutdown mechanism for the Separatist army. You claimed there was no such mechanism."
Dooku said nothing, continuing to pace the chamber. Yoda was suddenly reminded of when his former apprentice was a boy- stubbornness in the face of a lecture after breaking a rule.
"Lied you did," Yoda said, seeing through the obstinance.
Dooku stopped and turned back around. "You wonder what my motivations are."
The non question prompted a real one. Yoda sensed Dooku wanted something. But the man's shields, even inside a Force suppressing cell, were strong. "Little there is to gain by prolonging this conflict," the Grandmaster said evenly. "Why make this difficult?"
"I have done everything asked of me," Dooku deflected with the same deftness as his bladework. "Exposing Darth Sidious. Voluntarily sacrificing my own freedom to provide confirmation of his crimes. Agreeing to a ceasefire with the Acting Chancellor. All of this in exchange for nothing in return."
"Your life, perhaps?"
Yoda's hard stare saw right through the man's hubris as he raised a pointed finger. "Ordered your execution, the new Chancellor could have."
"Bail Organa is a politician who wishes to keep power. If he ordered my death, not only would the Republic have lost any chance at ending the war quickly, but also a key voice fending off Palpatine's acolytes still infecting the Senate."
A sigh escaped Yoda's mouth as he gave a downcast look. "A sad thing it is to see you so cynical, my old padawan."
"Is it cynicism or the hard truth that you, for so long, have refused to see?" came the sharp retort. "The darkness may have been defeated, my old master. But who was it that dismissed my warnings at every turn? That allowed Qui-Gon to be killed on Naboo?"
At the mention of that name, Yoda returned the volley with a sharp retort of his own. "It was not I who joined that darkness."
Dooku took a powerful step forward, gleaning down on the old Jedi. A spark of yellow returned to those brown eyes. "I made a decision. A decision that the Jedi Order refused to make in the face of endless corruption and suffering enabled and ignored by the Republic. I could not countenance such vile ineptitude. Change was needed."
"Accomplished this you did? Hm? Billions died at your hand, Dooku. Former friends and colleagues, many of them were."
Dooku raised his chin in defiance. "Inducing guilt is beneath you, Master. You cannot scold and order me to my room like one of your younglings."
Yoda paused, the old teacher choosing his next words carefully. They came out softly. "Right you are. I cannot."
But I wish I could.
Dooku heard that tenderness and that flicker of yellow disappeared. It was rare for the Grandmaster to concede any point to anyone. He could not hide his shock at the next admission.
"Right you were about many things, Dooku. Listened, we should have. And I am responsible for much of the misfortune that has come to pass."
He stopped and gazed intently at his old apprentice, and for a split second in time, he saw a curious, brown haired little boy who had once been one of the Order's greatest. His favorite.
"But right you are about one other thing: the choice to join the dark side was yours to make. And it is a burden you must carry alone."
For all of his posturing and pride, Yoda could see an ounce of regret lurking behind that bearded frown. The kind that had come to despise Sidious more than the Jedi.
"If I am to spend the rest of my life in this wretched place, I'd rather not engage in frivolous moral debates," Dooku said dryly. "Let us get to the heart of the matter: I have access to the shutdown code but refuse to give it to you."
"What reason do you have?" Yoda wasn't certain, but he could infer a number of outcomes. The Force, now a staunch ally in discerning the future, hinted at many things. Perhaps Dooku sought to sow enough chaos to cause a return to hostilities. Perhaps he desired to create a genuine Separatist movement or win more concessions from the Republic. Yoda saw those ends but saw another that invoked surprise.
"Because I'm waiting to see whether this new government, with all its promises, can keep them. And whether or not the Jedi Order can adapt to a new age, or double down on its conservative traditionalism."
The Grandmaster of the Order, nearly nine hundred years old, still retained the capacity for astonishment. His ears dropped slightly. "So little you ask for, and yet so much."
For the first time in years, Dooku respected his Master's insight. "Exactly. You of all beings should perceive what's at stake. How many Chancellors did you see come and go? How many Jedi have you taught over the centuries? But no one lives forever. It is decisions we make now that decide the future and we must make them wisely. Luke Skywalker understood this."
Yoda was not surprised at Dooku's knowledge of Luke's true identity. "A great man, Luke was. Honor him, we shall."
"If that is truly your wish, then uphold what he fought for."
He gazed intently at his former pupil. A challenging twinkle danced in his eyes. "Admired him, you did."
Dooku did not bother denying it. This only caused Yoda to troll him further. "A son of Skywalker. How interesting."
"We both have the distinction of being taught by the most infuriating Master in the Jedi Order. I'd expect nothing less from someone of our lineage."
He almost smiled at the flash of what Dooku used to be: cunning, sharp, demanding, disciplined, but unfailingly principled and fiercely protective of those he cared about.
"Grow up fast, our students do."
Dooku's hands dropped to the side. Reminiscent longing crossed his face, and the regal, upright man looked every bit of eighty two years.
"I endured the tragedy of losing multiple apprentices," he said quietly. "And so have you. Perhaps, at long last, some good can come of it."
The subtle allusion to loss was plainly understood. For the first time in years, Yoda allowed himself a modicum of empathy for a man he once thought entirely lost to evil.
"Once a padawan, always a padawan."
The Master bowed low and deep as a sign that their business had been concluded. But as the old Jedi hobbled out of the blinding white halls of Dooku's prison, he saw him tilt his head the slightest bit forward in the reflection of the glass.
Coruscant Holonet- 194th rotation. 0:800 hours.
The whole of the Republic rumbled throughout Coruscant this week as a special oversight committee began its formal investigation of Sheev Palpatine, otherwise known as 'Darth Sidious'.
The tumultuous hearings involved a great deal of evidence supplied by the Jedi Order, supported by the confessions of Count Dooku, a former Jedi Master turned charismatic leader of the Separatists. Despite the overwhelming vote to remove Palpatine, who was later killed during a skirmish inside the Executive Building, many Senators were skeptical how much could be traced back to the now deceased Chancellor.
"Our people deserve to know the truth," Orn Free Ta of Ryloth told reporters before the start of the hearings. "The fact of the matter is, an elected Chancellor of the Republic was executed at the hands of the Jedi. No stone can be allowed to go unturned."
Other Senators dismissed any wrongdoing by the Jedi, keeping the focus squarely on the crimes committed by Sheev Palpatine.
"As usual, Orn Free Ta is asking the wrong questions," said the fiery Garm Bel Ilbis of Corellia, one of the members of the investigative committee. "It has been proven beyond reasonable doubt that Palpatine was a madman dabbling in black magic to further his efforts in subverting our democracy. The only thing left to do is find out how he did so and to prevent the same from happening again."
Acting Chancellor Bail Organa has resolved to stay neutral throughout the hearings, but he has offered to testify himself should the committee desire to.
"The committee will do their work uninhibited by me or any other party of interest."
Though many spoke throughout the first day, Count Dooku provided planet-moving testimony, admitting to a whole host of crimes, almost all of which he claims were ordered by Chancellor Palpatine.
"Our plan was to encourage corruption which would then lead to destabilization, hostility, and finally…war," Dooku said. "This could not have happened without his personal direction."
Some Senators openly questioned whether or not the former Separatist leader, who agreed to a tentative ceasefire with Acting Chancellor Organa two weeks prior, was simply assigning blame in hopes of winning a lighter sentence. But the evidence presented so far- including evidence of tax evasion and ties to Separatist leaders- has left little doubt as to Mr. Palpatine's guilt. Senator Mon Mothma also vowed to release the security recordings, confirming that Palpatine had resisted arrest and attacked the Jedi who attempted to arrest him.
As the oversight committee adjourned for the day, Bel Ilbis told the media he planned to subpoena many more notable figures, including several Jedi, clone troopers, Senators, and Kaminoans, though it is unknown at this time if the latter will comply given their own controversial lawsuit (see page 8 for details).
In other news, the Senate unanimously granted Jedi Knights Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywlker, and Ahsoka Tano the Medal of Heroes, the highest honor that can be granted to any citizen, military or civilian. The late Luke Ahch-To, who perished in the battle inside the Executive Building, was given the award posthumously…
Ahsoka shut off the holonet and stuck her datapad in her robe, having read quite enough for one day. She loathed politics almost as much as Anakin did. Why did there need to be any debate about Palpatine at all?
The Senate was bustling with the promise of more committees, paperwork and investigations. She sat in a chair, twiddling with her medal, a shiny piece of craftsmanship forged with silver and platinum. She tried to feel a sense of accomplishment but found no pride. A Jedi was above such things…in theory anyway. But this lack of vanity did not stem from high mindedness.
We were way too close to losing everything.
And Maul's warning replayed over and over again, stoking the swell of anxiety, igniting the smallest spark of that darkness the Zabrakian claimed could never be conquered. Ahsoka didn't remember much during her time as a prisoner of Sidious's cult, but shadows and flashes had begun to recur during dreams. Something primal, animalistic and redder than blood…
Meditation helped, and she resolved to see a mind healer as soon as possible. None of that altered the fact that Ahsoka Tano was no longer the wide eyed, smart mouthed Togruta girl her master affectionately called 'Snips'. Too much had irreversibly changed. They all had.
Luke had spoken little of her life in his future, divulging bits and pieces. She took on a major role in the Rebellion against the Empire, working under the codename 'Fulcrum' while uniting the various factions into a singular fighting force. They'd met a handful of times afterwards before disappearing into the Unknown Regions on an unknown mission.
Often annoyed at how tight-lipped Luke was about the future, Ahsoka now understood, even appreciated his caution. He wanted her to make choices freely based on the present, not an alternate future. Perhaps it was a sign of maturity.
"Ahsoka."
She stood up and straightened herself out as Padme approached, flanked by three handmaidens who all bore an uncanny resemblance to their former Queen and Senator.
"Senator."
"You know it's always Padme," the brunette said, waving any formality aside. "Come in, please."
Despite the perceived demureness of the handmaidens, Ahsoka knew their feminine appearance should not be mistaken for weakness. They were highly trained bodyguards who would fight and die if necessary for their Queen. Sabe and Rabe were two of her best.
Entering her spacious office, the two women sat down, Padme's Handmaidens keeping a considerable but noticeable distance away. The silver steel of Coruscant gleamed brightly in the morning sun, a noticeable trend since the end of Sidious.
"Thank you for stopping by on short notice."
"Of course. I, uh, have the documents you asked for. Approved by the Council."
Ahsoka handed over the datapad, which Padme gratefully took.
"Excellent. This will be important for the Oversight Committee. Sabe, can you forward this to Senator Mothma's office?" Mothma and Bel Ilbis, wishing to leave little doubt as to the maliciousness of Palpatine's intentions, desired to document every executive order, civilian and military, he ever gave. Including the Jedi.
Sabe did as told without hesitation. "Actually, Rabe…may I speak to Ahsoka in private?"
The handmaiden hesitated.
"My lady-"
"I will be fine. Ahsoka is more than enough protection for a quick chat."
Rabe too obeyed, though her expression betrayed misgiving as she exited. Ahsoka sensed it too.
"You look well, Padme."
She kept her voice light and respectful, sensing the powerful well of emotions within.
"You're too kind." Her posture was straight as a board and proper. She wore a dark green dress, cinched by a black bodice covered in a floral pattern, which flared out as it cascaded to the floor. There was a tinge of pink to her cheeks unaided by makeup, and dark brown curls were wrapped in an elegant ponytail. Padme Amidala looked as beautiful as ever, but trouble lingered behind those soft eyes.
"Anakin told me the doctors and Jedi healers cleared you."
"Yes, they did. Although only for six hours a day, which I told them was ridiculous since they found no traces of the poison left in my body."
The Jedi had been particularly adamant that every molecule of the toxic sludge ingested from Palpatine had to be removed in order for her health to be considered safe long term. Master Che and her staff were still running tests to find out the full composition of the Sith poison.
"I hate being treated like delicate glass," Padme continued, her posture falling a bit. "I told Bail and Mon I'd be more than willing to serve on the investigative committee, but they didn't want to burden me with more assignments straight away."
"I'm sorry," Ahsoka tried to pivot to something more positive. Padme always despised being left out of anything important that she could help with. "And the babies are okay?"
Padme moved a hand to her midsection. The dress hid it well, but there was a slight bump.
"Yes," she said brightly. "Fully healthy. And it is confirmed that we'll be having one girl and one boy."
Ahsoka felt warmth within the Force at those words. She swore every single time Luke and Leia were mentioned, the sensation would occur, filling the air with delight. As though it somehow approved of their conception. Padme was almost glowing. And yet a sense of sadness prevailed.
"Padme, with respect, I don't think you asked me here to drop off some minor documents."
"I suppose there's no point in pretending otherwise," she said with a sigh. "I'm worried about Anakin."
That worry came with many possibilities. Obi-Wan swore he'd doubled the amount of gray hair on his head by dealing with his padawan's various bugaboos, usually masked by Jedi discipline and the distraction of war. It was only now that those problems became glaringly obvious.
"I wanted to know if he'd spoken to you…"
"...about what?" Ahsoka asked slowly.
"Anything."
The last thing the Togruta wanted to do was interfere or get involved in the marriage of her former master. She tried to be tactful.
"What would he tell me that he wouldn't tell you?"
"I'm asking myself the same question." And this time, Padme really did look aggrieved as some of the receding bags beneath her eyes became more pronounced. "One moment, he won't leave my side, the next he can barely look me in the eye. It's bewildering."
"That is quite odd…"
She hoped that sounded genuine. Ahsoka already knew the reason for Anakin's tight lipped anguish. That he hadn't divulged what happened in the future was typical but unfortunate.
"It's not hard to tell when Anakin is trying to keep something from me," Padme rightfully guessed. "Even though I've told him a million times not to…" she paused and held up a hand. "Forgive me. I shouldn't prattle like a gossiping school girl. But our marriage has been through so much. We didn't speak for weeks after an argument about Palpatine and even when we did reconcile, the war, the babies-"
Words poured out of her mouth at a rate almost impossible for human ears to comprehend, and it was then Ahsoka decided comfort was needed. In seconds, she'd pulled Padme into a hug, and the two sat in silence in each other's embrace before resuming conversation.
"Thank you, Ahsoka."
"What are friends for?"
Padme wiped the water from her eyes, careful not to smear her makeup. "I'm sorry. I should be asking how you are as well given you also suffered a horrible ordeal."
"I swear I'm fine," the Torgruta insisted with a small smile, though the rational part of the brain throbbed in protest, as if to remind her that the dark side was never too far away. "Anakin loves you more than the galaxy itself. I'm sure whatever is bothering him, he'll tell you soon."
Padme nodded, casting a gaze towards the window before turning back to Ahsoka.
"I only wish I knew why he's acting like this."
Much as she wanted to, Ahsoka didn't feel comfortable spilling the beans on the things Anakin saw during his duel with Luke. It wasn't her place. She didn't entirely blame him. Disclosing to your spouse that you once choked them in a fit of megalomania only to become a vicious half-man/half-machine that slaughtered billions, wasn't the best conversation starter. And Anakin had difficulty discussing trauma at the best of times.
"He's probably a little stressed. He was called in by the Council today."
Padme's normally soft, brown eyes sharpened. "Surely, they wouldn't expel him? Not after everything he's done?"
"I don't think so." And this time Ahsoka was telling the truth. "At the very least, Obi-Wan doesn't plan on letting that happen. And all the members of the Council who didn't care for Anakin are either dead or they resigned."
The Senator leaned forward, a conflicted look in her eye. For someone not of the Force, her feelings were incredibly powerful. Was that a side effect of carrying two Force sensitive babies? Or maybe she was always this way.
"Anakin and I agreed to both step away from our respective positions after the war ended. We've known for a long time that the relationship might not survive our respective professions. So we chose each other but now-"
"Everything's changed," Ahsoka said with an empathetic nod, which Padme reciprocated.
"The Republic is in serious jeopardy," she said. "Bail needs support more than ever. The Senate is completely at odds with each other on how to move forward or how to formally end the war. Clones are threatening rebellion. And the Jedi are now seen by a majority of the public as a militaristic institution instead of a peacekeeping one. The two of us have the potential to do so much good…"
Unspoken was 'but I love Anakin more than my job.' Ahsoka understood that all too well.
"Can you promise me something?"
"Anything."
"Whatever happens at the Temple, whatever decision the Council makes about Anakin's future, you'll be there for him."
Ahsoka's heart fluttered as a burst of emotional adrenaline flooded her veins.
"Padme, whatever decision he makes, I make. I'll never be in the Jedi Order without Anakin Skywalker."
Padme smiled as she stood and the two embraced once more in a warm hug. "Thank you, Ahsoka."
The conversation ended there and not for the first time, Ahsoka began to question the purpose of the Jedi Order beyond promoting its own brand of esoteric philosophy. As she exited, she took a large breath and let it out into the Force. Everything would be okay. If the worst came to pass, they had each other.
Engrossed in thought, she almost ran into someone.
"My bad," she said deftly sidestepping the bystander at the last minute. Then she saw a familiar face. "Lux?"
"Oh Ahsoka, fancy seeing you here."
The handsome, seventeen year old Senator had a rather pinkish hue spreading across his face. One arm was placed behind the back and his eyes failed to meet hers. It quickly occurred to the young Jedi that Lux's clumsy run in was no accident.
"Really? Seems like you're in a rush."
Lux gave a nervous chuckle. "Yes, I am actually. I uh…um…" the smooth talking quintessential of all politicians went out the window. "...heard you were here to see Senator Amidala. I thought I'd swing by to say hello."
"Oh well, hello."
Ahsoka didn't really know what to say. She sensed his heartbeat pulse like a Venator reactor. Were all teenage boys this bad at flirting?
Lux is lucky he's cute.
"Anyway," he cleared his throat and his voice became stronger. "I wanted to catch you because there was a question I wanted to ask. And you are free to say no."
"Ok?"
"I'm aware this might violate the rules of your Jedi Code. But seeing as the war is over and Master Skywalker has an open marriage, I thought it possible for us to go on an excursion."
This was actually kind of amusing. Adorable even. Lux's gentlemanly behavior might have been a bit awkward but he was respectful without having to grovel.
"An excursion?" she asked, popping an eyebrow while trying not to laugh.
"Will you go on a date with me?" he put more bluntly.
"I…ummm…"
Lux was handsome and that attraction was mutually shared. They'd spent a nice evening together at Padme's apartment and she genuinely enjoyed his company. But when it came to matters of the heart, Ahsoka didn't fare much better than the average Jedi. Romantic overtures were like a forbidden language.
"I understand your hesitation and I would never want you to jeopardize your position in the Order. But…if there's a chance…I'd like to take it."
More than a bit touched by his gesture, Ahsoka felt herself wavering. It was hard to say no to that handsome baby face even as old inclinations told her no to accept. She thought of Anakin and Obi-Wan and their respective partners. They were happy weren't they? Things were changing as she pointed out earlier. Maybe this was another step towards that.
"Alright," she relented with a small smile.
"Wonderful," and a familiar sparkle returned to Lux's eye. "I'll pick you up tonight at six in the evening for our reservation."
"Reservation?! What?"
Had he really planned this all out in advance?
"I took the liberty of finding us a table at one of the nicer spots in town. Do you still have that dress you wore at Senator Amidala's?"
"Yes, but-"
"I can find you a new one if you'd like."
Ahsoka waved him off. "No, no. The one I have is fine, this is just…unexpected."
Lux's eyes took on an extra twinkle. "I never stopped thinking about you, Ahsoka. When I envisioned our first date, I had to think of everything."
Suppressing a blush and allowing another palpitation in her heart to flutter, Ahsoka's smile widened.
"Such a gentleman."
"I'll see you at six, then?"
She nodded. "Six it is."
Lux bowed, and she swore there was an extra spring in the step of that posh gait. Ahsoka felt a rush, not unlike the kind you felt when going against a platoon of droids to win the battle.
Not all change was for the worst.
As Anakin Skywalker stepped onto the platform leading to the top of the Ivory Tower, he felt that familiar pit of goo bubbling in the pit of his stomach.
He was self aware enough by now to know that wasn't a good thing, but that didn't bother him as much as not knowing the reason. Sure, the Jedi Council might very well vote to expel him. But that was to be expected. Being an honorable, upstanding man, his old Master refused to give any indication of how the Council might rule.
Obi-Wan wouldn't let that happen, said a more reasonable voice.
Obi-Wan was only one member of the Council. Not twelve.
Ahsoka will go with you.
He couldn't ask her to sacrifice her own career just for him.
You have Padme. You have two children on the way. The galaxy is safe. There's no need to be a hero.
In his heart of hearts, Anakin knew that to be false. The biggest bad guy may have kicked it, but plenty of others were out there, the majority of whom would love nothing more than to take a shot at his burgeoning family.
A low growl rumbled at his chest at the thought of Nute Gunray trying to assassinate Padme for the fourth time. In the weeks following Sidious's demise, he'd felt like a time bomb unable to go off but denied the pleasure of exploding. His wife noticed and tried to help to to her everlasting credit. Predictably, he refused to admit anything was wrong.
This wasn't something she could help with. Or anyone. Yoda and Obi-Wan knew that he'd become a monster. Therefore the Council also knew. Chosen One or not, slayer of Sidious or Darth Vader, Anakin was still a potential threat.
Do I even want to be a Jedi anymore?
He would find out soon enough. The platform dinged and a white light signaled his arrival. Stepping off the lift, two silent Temple Guards allowed him to pass without incident.
Anakin passed through the automatic doors to a familiar sight. It was late in the afternoon and the sun bathed white puffy clouds in a golden red light. Air traffic zoomed silently past as it always did. But this was not the same Jedi Council of the past three years or even since he was a boy. Many familiar faces had disappeared. Windu had already left for Ossus. Ki-Adi Mundi and Saesee Tiin were dead. Agen Kolar had resigned. Replacing them were Aayla Secura, Luminara Unduli, and two other human males he did not know.
He felt their gaze and their apprehension upon approach. A sensation he'd grown accustomed to but stung even after a decade of their disapproval. Anger began to smolder until Obi-Wan caught his eye. Calm, cool waves of solidarity came through their bond. Slowly, the anger faded.
It will be alright.
Anakin took a deep breath and exhaled, centering himself in the Force. There was no need to start a fight. Not yet at any rate.
"Welcome young Master Skywalker," came the gravelly voice of Master Yoda. At the very least, the old troll seemed agreeable to his presence unlike Master Windu.
'Master'. He'd waited so long to be called that. To earn the respect of his peers. Remembering Palpatine was the one responsible for that promotion left a sour taste in his mouth.
"Greetings, Masters," he said, bowing low in a sign of respect.
"We appreciate you meeting with us on short notice," Plo Koon rumbled through his mask. "Given everything that has happened, especially with your wife."
Anakin willed himself not to visibly wince, though his heart skipped a beat. So that womp rat was already out of the bag. Obi-Wan definitely sensed his apprehension.
"It's alright, Anakin. You have nothing to fear. I speak for the rest of the Council in saying that this gathering is not for the purpose of punishment. More of a discussion."
Several others, including Adi Gallia, Kit Fisto, and Aayla Secura nodded. Shaak Ti smiled at him which gave some measure of comfort. Nevertheless, he remained somewhat on guard.
"I'm at your disposal."
Master Plo went first. It wasn't lost on Anakin that he now sat next to Master Yoda in the same way Mace used to. "Master Skywalker. You are a Jedi of unparalleled power whose accomplishments are too numerous to count. A war hero, a mentor, a master, a general, a warrior…. It is because of you that this Council still lives along with the thousands of Jedi under its charge."
Wrong, Anakin thought. It's because of Luke. But he kept that silent.
"The death of Sidious by your hand," continued Plo. "Is perhaps the single most important act in a thousand years. In doing so, you've saved millions if not billions of lives. Balance in the Force is slowly being restored. For that, you are to be commended."
"It would seem that the old and new Prophecies were correct," added Oppo Rancisis.
Anakin resisted rolling his eyes. More babble about this kriffing prophecy was not what he wanted to hear. Didn't they get that?
"And yet…" This time it was Adi Gallia who spoke, eyes soft but piercing. "You are still quite troubled, Master Skywalker. There is still sadness, anger, and guilt inside you…the latter most of all."
"You would feel it too if you saw what I saw." His bitter response came out closer to that of his teenage self. Except his teenage self would have been dismissive, cocky, impatient, and desperate to prove he was beyond the Council's approach. This was different.
"Know what happened in the future, the Council does," Yoda said, confirming his suspicions that they'd been told about Luke's memories.
"There are also the security recordings salvaged from Palpatine's office," Depa Billaba said, gesturing towards the center where a holo recorder had emerged from the ground. Anakin's stomach twisted into a knot.
"This section of the recording was not shown to the Senate during the hearings. Only Palpatine's resistance to arrest," Obi-Wan assured him. Even so, Anakin did not want to relive that horrible moment where he gave in to Sidious's lies and deceit.
I will not look.
But he did. Some masochistic part of him forced his eyes to watch the entire scene play out like a nightmare- confronting Sidious, threatening to kill the man, nearly doing so before the Sith Lord's serpentine tongue brought him down to his knees in servitude. A willing apprentice ready to don the mantle of Darth Vader until Luke intervened at the last second.
The recording ended just as he attacked his son and Anakin's anger slipped out.
"With respect, I don't want to see that ever again."
"Therein the problem lies," came Yoda's wizened grumble. He pointed a finger directly towards him. "Face it you must. To the dark side, you almost fell."
"My wife was dying. I had to do something! He promised to save her."
"Surely, Master Skywalker," Kit Fisto said to him. "You did not truly believe Sidious would honor his promise?"
"I-I.." Anakin clenched a fist. Obi-Wan had said this was not about punishment, and yet here he was being reprimanded like a child once more. What right did they have to behave high and mighty?
"That also brings up another key part of this," one of the human males said for the first. "The status of your marriage is a violation of the code. A secret you kept from the Council for three years."
"Right, because you would have showered me with gifts and congratulations at the reception?"
He stopped himself. Obi-Wan's presence touched their bond. 'Calm down' it said.
"I know what I am and what I've done," Anakin said to the Council at large. He was tired of running, tired of their rules and tired of pretending that he wasn't in love with Padme Amidala for the sake of some code. "As much as I'd like to tell you I wouldn't have made that choice, the fact is once upon a time, I did."
"That choice backfired on you," Luminara pointed out. "It caused twenty years of pain, misery, and suffering. Would you not take that back?"
"Of course!" Anakin cried. "Do you think I wanted this?! The Jedi Order is my life. My people, my friends, my purpose."
"But you were willing to betray it, were you not? You cared more about one person than the Order."
Obi-Wan shifted uncomfortably, and Yoda sighed knowing that Rancisis's cutting remark would not end well. The Force became thick with tension.
"Padme Amidala is everything to me," Anakin snarled, as his blood began to boil hot once more. "I love her more than the stars in the sky and without her I am nothing."
Rancsis, feeling the full weight of Anakin's thunder, turned to one of the human male Masters.
"Then that is most concerning."
"Easy for you to say," Anakin spat, feeling every bit as bitter as he sounded. Obi-Wan tried to bring his protege to heel before things got out of hand.
"Everyone calm down. This is not a session to point fingers. Anakin please-"
"No, Obi-Wan!" He shouted. "I've had it! I've been keeping my mouth shut for years but no longer!"
He pointed his inorganic hand directly at the Council.
"None of you know what it's like to lose someone the way I have! For someone to die in your arms barely able to speak their last words. To know you could have saved them but failed to."
Anakin relished the opportunity to stick it to the Council. He only wished Mace Windu's stupid face was around to see this.
"I could have prevented my mother's death but the Jedi told me not to worry. To ignore the dreams and let them go into the Force. Look where that got me!"
This time, Anakin did feel regret at the hurt expression on Obi-Wan's face. To know that a part of him, unspoken or otherwise, still blamed him for the murder of Shmi Skywalker. Unable to stem the tide of anger, Anakin continued his diatribe. "I was not going to allow the same to happen with Padme! I was not going to sit back and do nothing!"
Obi-Wan opened his mouth to speak but foreseeing this, Yoda beat him to the punch. "And yet, young Skywalker, your attempt to save her, led to your ruin it would have. And hers."
"Luke understood," Anakin fired back, mentioning his son's name for the first time. "Luke never judged me."
"And yet, by your actions, he would have perished too," Yoda told him sagely. Unlike others on the Council, there was no desire to condemn, only sadness that someone so young suffered so much.
Anakin's temper visibly deflated and his head cast a downwards glance at what he could not deny. Anger turned to ash and dejection rose from the black dust.
"I know."
He took a deep breath and allowed the Force to flow through and wash away all the unpleasant emotions. When he spoke, it was calm. "Masters, I appreciate the opportunity I received thirteen years ago. You took me in despite the fact that I was too old and gave me a life I never thought possible. Being a Jedi was the coolest thing in the galaxy. But…" he curled in his lower lip and released his fear in favor of truth. "...let's face it. I'm not cut out for this life. I never was. I've broken the code more times than anyone here can count. I'm married to a woman with two kids on the way."
Luke and Leia.
The thought of his unborn children brought pleasant warmth to his soul. He would move every moon, planet, and star for them. Even if it meant not being a Jedi anymore.
"Reality is, as long as I'm in the Order, there's always the chance I'll fall to the dark side. Chosen One or not…I don't want to be a burden."
He'd said those painful words to Qui-Gon once before as a naive, confused nine year old incapable of hurting anyone. But that child was gone now and a volatile, damaged young man was all that remained. He destroyed the Jedi in one lifetime and murdered thousands of innocents. There was no way he could allow that to happen again.
"I resign from the Jedi Order."
The Council gasped. Anakin bowed deep and made to leave. But no sooner had he done so when Obi-Wan called him back.
"Anakin, wait." When that failed to have any effect, Obi-Wan leapt from the cushy Council chair and ran after his brother. "Anakin, please."
The affection in the word 'please' made him stop before reaching the doors. He felt Obi-Wan's brotherly love and reluctantly granted him permission to be steered back towards the center of the room. Significantly, Obi-Wan did not return to his seat.
"Masters, if I may, I'd like to address everyone here and add a few words both in support and defense of my former padawan."
A few on the Council looked bemused at the suggestion but Master Yoda held sway and nodded his head.
"Proceed, Master Kenobi."
"When I was told the Council wished to speak to Anakin, my understanding was that it would be an effort to talk and hear out his concerns. I see a lot of talking but not enough listening." He turned towards Anakin." Yes, he has made many mistakes, but who among us hasn't? We, the Council, a body renowned for its wisdom, led our Order into a war orchestrated by our enemy. An enemy that operated under our noses for decades that we took orders from. Let us not throw too many stones from a glass temple."
Obi-Wan paused before continuing. "Anakin is headstrong, stubborn, impulsive, and struggles with emotional control. I should know, having taught him for ten years. But we certainly did him no favors by not recognizing how to effectively address his problems. And how ironic it is. The Council allowed Anakin to join past the age of acceptance because he was believed to be the Chosen One and yet he was treated with wary suspicion at best, mistrust at worst.
"As his master, I share in this blame. I thought I could instruct him as well as Yoda or Qui-Gon. I thought with enough time, discipline, and patience, what worked for the majority would eventually work for Anakin…I was wrong. The fact is, he is a person who needs connection and attachment. And while one shouldn't harbor unhealthy attachments, healthy ones are the foundation of all that is good in the world. They are the reason why life is so precious."
"From personal experience you speak, Master Kenobi?"
Master Yoda's question may have sounded reproachful, but Anakin saw that familiar sparkle in his eye. Instinctually, he realized the Grandmaster was not upset. On the contrary, the little troll was enjoying this far too much.
"I do," Obi-Wan said simply. Anakin snapped his head towards brother in amazement.
"I have experienced love. I am currently in love. With the former Duchess and now Senator Satine Kryze of Mandalore."
That definitely raised the murmur level of the Council quite a bit. Some, like Aayla Secura, were surprised but retained curiosity. Others, like Rancisis, were borderline horrified. Obi-Wan had never attempted to hide the relationship but it was the first time he spoke of it in front of the Order.
"I know full well what Anakin feels and the unimaginable pain if I were to lose the one person in this universe who makes me feel complete. Do not mistake me, Masters, I would never turn to the dark side. But love is not attachment. Love is not a road to evil. It is the greatest gift any of us can experience. If we are to see a brighter future, we must seek to embrace this gift, not shy away from it." Obi-Wan paused and his eyes did not falter from the other eleven Council members. The resolve in that bearded stubbornness would be enough to put Mace Windu to shame.
"If he is to be expelled for breaking the Code, then you'll have to expel me as well."
"Surely you cannot be serious, Master Kenobi," Rancisis protested.
"As serious as a lightsaber."
"But-"
Yoda raised a hand and he ceased speaking as did everyone else. The Grandmaster closed his eyes, exhaled, and opened them. Almost as if he was straining to hear something…or someone. Anakin sensed it too. A comforting presence that he hadn't seen in years. Like a warm, gentle hand being placed on your back.
Then it disappeared. He looked at Obi-Wan, who evidently sensed it too. A disquiet settled among the rest of the Council as Yoda spoke again.
"We will not be expelling you, Obi-Wan. Nor you, young Skywalker. Clear to me now, that the Jedi Order cannot be as it was in the past."
"I concur, Master," Shaak Ti said, speaking for the first time. "I was a witness to Senator Amidala's condition and assisted the doctors in saving her life. I saw firsthand just how much she cares for Master Skywalker and he for her in return. That kind of devotion should be celebrated. Not punished."
"But the Order requires singular focus," Rancsis said, raising a scaly finger. "It comes before everything. The prospect of marriage brings tremendous risk. Not to mention distraction."
"We've allowed marriage before," Adi Gallia pointed out. "The late Master Mundi had over twenty wives."
"That was a special case. For the sole purpose of species procreation."
"Is not Skywalker also a special case, Master Rancisis?" Yoda asked. His tone had become elevated and the tiniest bit sharp. "Did our rules not create fear of reprisal? Did this not lead to lack of trust?"
The Grandmaster shook his head as though flies buzzed around it.
"Took advantage of our complacency and fear, the Sith did. Not Skywalker it was, who sought to end the Jedi."
Anakin could hardly believe there was a point in the timeline in which Master Yoda of all beings defended him from breaking a rule. Everything had become relative.
"What of our traditions, Master?" said one of the human males at the end of the semi circle.
"Upholding tradition does not mean resisting change when needed," Obi-Wan wisely countered. "And this is an area where we sorely need it."
"I agree," Gallia said with a nod of her own. Master Fisto also concurred as did several others. Only Rancisis and the other human looked hesitant.
Shaak Ti stood up. "I move that this Council lift the ban on romantic marriages and that they be allowed on an individual basis. And that we establish a commission to establish the potential benefits of positive attachment."
"Seconded," said Kit Fisto.
"All in favor of Master Shaak Ti's motion?" Plo Koon asked.
Almost every single hand went up, even the conservative Luminara Unduli. All except Oppo Rancisis and one other master. But Anakin's heart soared at the near unanimity. Obi-Wan smiled at him as he too raised his hand.
"The motion passes."
Anakin was so elated he could hardly speak. He would be allowed to stay in the Order and stay married to Padme! And Luke and Leia… "Masters, may I request something?" he asked suddenly.
"Ask away, Master Skywalker," Shaak Ti said kindly.
"I confess that my wife is also three months pregnant with twins. I'd like assurance that Padme and I will be able to raise and care for them as we see fit."
The inference was a heavy one, especially since Luke's future identity had been revealed. Anakin was sure, convinced even, that the Council would insist on training his children as a condition of remaining in the Order. His darker impulses insisted this would be the case.
"We have no desire to take your children away," said Plo Koon. "Whatever you decide for them is strictly up to you."
A ray of light burst through one the clouds obscuring the sun. Anakin basked in its golden caress. Holy kriff, it was a gift from the stars themselves. He would get to stay in the Order and keep his family.
"Congratulations, Anakin," Shaak Ti said with a warm smile. Yoda hummed in agreement.
"Council adjourned," he announced with a boom of his gimmer stick.
The brunette did not bother waiting until the rest of the Council had left to pull Obi-Wan into the biggest hug he'd ever given.
"Thank you," he whispered. "Thank you."
Obi-Wan wrapped his arms around Anakin's back and hung on tight.
"You are my brother, Anakin. I love you."
The two continued their embrace for a solid minute before breaking apart somewhat awkwardly (the two men were not naturally familiar with affectionate gestures). But Anakin could not have been more grateful.
"You risked everything to stand up for me."
"Oh, that wasn't all for you. I am trying to earn the future status of 'favorite uncle'."
Anakin snorted at the joke. But despite having achieved almost everything he'd ever wanted, something wasn't right. A deep seated discomfort that had been there since the night Luke disappeared into the Force.
"Anakin?"
"I feel…conflicted."
It was a sign of just how much their relationship had grown since the start of their partnership. In years past, Anakin would do his best to hide or avoid talking about difficult feelings with Obi-Wan (minus a few specific instances where it was impossible to ignore). His Master had a tendency to lecture instead of listen.
But this was not the Obi-Wan Kenobi of yesteryear. Just as he was not the same Anakin Skywalker. "I can only imagine how overwhelming this is for you," his brother said to him empathetically. "But rejoice, my friend. This is a new day. Progress is on the horizon and we get to be a part of that."
Anakin agreed, but he could not rid himself of the worried expression on his face. He should be dancing a desert jig. So why did he still feel fearful when he thought of Padme and his children to be?
Obi-Wan, sensing his distress, gave an encouraging smile. "Come. I think I know what can raise your spirits." The old man had a curious expression on his face, the kind usually employed for trolling Count Dooku.
"What are you up to?"
His master's smile turned sheepish.
"I'd like to state for the record that A- we're not paying. And B- it wasn't my idea."
"The Pinnacle? You got us a table at The Pinnacle?"
Anakin's mouth dropped to a comical 'o' the second Obi-Wan parked their hover speeder at their destination (he'd insisted upon driving)- a vast, expansive complex at the top of one of Coruscant's tallest skyscrapers with shining lights, high steps, and a decor that screamed 'exclusive'. Wealthy and well dressed clientele filtered in and out of two massive doors made entirely of obsidian glass, giving it a sheer black gloss.
"So this is why you made us change into our best robes," Anakin muttered.
"It never hurts to look your best, my former padawan."
He rolled his eyes at the minor bit of fussing. Obi-Wan had done that a lot when he was little.
"How the stars did you land a reservation at this place?" Everyone knew that only the most elite of Coruscant's wealthy and politically connected ever dined here.
"You still haven't figured it out by now?" Obi-Wan said, almost laughing by now. "No matter. I believe our benefactors are waiting for us at the top of the steps. Shall we?"
It didn't take long for Anakin to put two and two together as two beautifully dressed, gorgeous women came into view as they neared the entrance.
Padme... I should have known.
"Hello there, ladies."
Padme and Satine were beaming so brightly, the city lights themselves seemed to reflect off their flawless faces. The former wore a velvet satin gown of midnight blue with shimmering sparkles decorating the skirt as it flared out into an elegant A-line. Matching elbow-length gloves completed the ensemble along with an elaborate updo. Satine went for something less dramatic but no less jaw dropping- a slitted gold dress that revealed just enough skin at the lower thigh to appeal to the imagination. Golden wristbands and three inch stilettos only enhanced her already considerable height. They were, to put it mildly, the most mesmerizing women in the universe.
To his slight embarrassment, they began to giggle.
"Surprise," Padme said softly, leaning in to give him a kiss. "Satine and I thought it might be fun to have our first official outing as a double date."
"It really was a splendid idea," Obi-Wan gushed as Satine too, gave him a peck on the lips.
"Good to know you value my thoughts, darling."
Anakin hardly knew what to say or what to do. He'd been to fancy Senatorial events before as a Jedi, but mostly stayed in the background only talking if approached. And even then he never liked to linger for long. Being the Tatooine desert peasant had the effect of making a person feel out of place. A krayt dragon without sand. A gooberfish out of water.
"Ani, are you okay? Say something," Padme half laughed, but there was a glimmer of concern that this 'surprise' wasn't to his liking.
Finally, his tongue moved to form coherent sounds. A rush of happiness filled his heart. There was no need to hide or pretend otherwise. They were free to be themselves at long last.
"This is wonderful," he said with a smile, pressing a kiss to her lips. "Thank you."
They went inside and were quickly escorted by the overly friendly maitre'd to their table, a window seat with a top down view of the city below. Every whim was catered to- wine, appetizers, bread, spirits, right down to refilling their waters (Padme, of course, did not partake in any alcohol). A few curious heads turned, aiming to see the Chosen One and his equally famous wife, but by and large they were left alone.
For a child of a forgotten desert world in the Outer Rim, and a man who'd spent the last three years fighting a war while also hiding a secret marriage, the term 'culture shock' didn't even begin to describe his thoughts. It was simply unbelievable.
Obi-Wan and Satine seemed to be just as perfect for each other as he and Padme. He felt their joy, their intense love even if they used fewer words to express it. He'd known since third wheeling on the Coronet they had feelings for each other. But this was a whole other side to his Master.
"I'm curious," Padme said after ten minutes of small talk. "How did you two meet?"
Satine and Obi-Wan stole a glance at each other with the former smirking and the latter blushing. Anakin had heard the story before but to see his Master squirm in embarrassment brought tremendous satisfaction.
"Shall I tell it, dear?"
"Go ahead," Obi-Wan grunted. "And I'm sure your account will be completely unbiased."
Satine patted his arm patronizingly and went back to the beginning- that her clan had been one of the key players in Mandalore's eight Civil War in one hundred years. That the Republic, eager to see the New Mandalorian faction prevail, sent two Jedi Knights to protect the daughter of Adonai Kryze. And how one of those Knights ended up falling in love with the girl he'd been assigned to protect.
"My goodness." Padme's eyebrows rose steadily higher as she heard the tale. "That is incredible. Did you really save her from a swarm of venom-mites?"
"I did," Obi-Wan said, puffing out a bit. "I carried her to safety without a scratch."
"Not quite, darling," Satine teased. "I still have the scar from when you dropped me."
Anakin snorted into his wine glass.
"Sorry," he apologized, wiping his mouth with a napkin.
"I'm glad you find my blunder so amusing," Obi-Wan said dryly.
"What he lacks occasionally in grace he more than makes up for in bravery and endless charm," Satine said with gushing affection and her beau gave the smallest of smiles. She turned to the other couple.
"What about the two of you? How did you meet?"
Padme's cheerful expression reduced to caution as she looked at Anakin with soft eyes he loved so much. They were asking his permission as it was something of a sensitive topic. Obi-Wan switched his eyes back and forth between them expectantly.
"It's kind of a long story," Padme said diplomatically. "We wouldn't want to take up the whole evening."
"I understand."
"It's alright," Anakin said. He didn't want to give too much detail but a basic retelling could do no harm…as long as they skipped over the more grisly parts.
"We met by chance," he elaborated. "I was…still a slave at the time working in a junk shop on Tatooine."
"You were a slave?" Satine asked, though hailing from an Outer Rim world, she did not look too startled.
Padme reached over and squeezed his hand. Obi-Wan tensed. Satine realized she'd committed a faux pas.
"Oh..I'm so sorry. I didn't mean-"
"It's fine," Anakin cut her off. He wasn't angry, but he didn't need an apology either. Ever the politician, Padme stepped in.
"Yes. The practice still exists in numerous parts of the Outer Rim," she said with a note of sadness. "One thing I hope to bring to the attention of the Senate in the coming months."
Satine's sky blue eyes hardened.
"Consider me a part of that effort."
"Anyway," Anakin cut in, having no desire to talk about slavery. "Padme and her security were escaping the blockade by the Trade Federation-"
They took turns telling the story, with Padme looking to him occasionally to verify he was okay with revealing certain parts. Satine clutched her heart at the part where a nine year old Anakin called the fourteen year old Queen of Naboo an angel. They were interrupted briefly to take their food orders before resuming.
"I never forgot her. And evidently she didn't forget about me either," Anakin said with a cocky grin as Padme rolled her eyes affectionately.
"Anakin makes quite an impression."
"How did you reconnect?" Satine asked.
This time it was Obi-Wan who gave a snort. Anakin glared at him.
"Yes, do tell. I'm interested in hearing what my transient padawan got up to while I was on Kamino."
"Ha ha," he shot back in a bored tone.
"Wellll," Padme said in a sing-song voice. "After Count Dooku and Nute Gunray tried assassinating me for the third time, the Jedi Order assigned Anakin as my personal bodyguard on Naboo."
"Ironically, we have Palpatine to thank for that," Obi-Wan muttered. Anakin worked his jaw at the mention of that name.
"Being around an attractive Jedi every day, it was hard for a young Senator who'd spent the majority of her life in public service not to…indulge," Padme added slyly.
"She tried to resist at first," Anakin said with a smug look on his face. "Didn't work."
"Ah, so that's what you were doing while I tangled with Jango Fett," Obi-Wan quipped. "Good to know."
"Our adventures took us to many places. Naboo, Geonosis, Tatooine…" She stopped.
"What happened?" Satine asked, unaware of the significance.
Obi-Wan grimaced underneath his beard. An awkward silence followed as the soft sounds of background music became much more noticeable. The subject of his mother's death was not a wound he needed to reopen.
"We visited family," Padme said quickly. "But coincidentally, that's when the Separatist rebellion began. Obi-Wan was captured on Geonosis and we had to rescue him."
"Geonosis," Obi-Wan said with a quick shudder. "Between the humongous monsters and the zombie hive mind, that's a planet I don't plan to visit again."
"Amen," Anakin agreed. "We barely got out of those catacombs. Thanks to my quick thinking."
"Your quick thinking?" Obi-Wan gave a false look of aghast. "It was my idea to talk to the queen so we could understand the inner workings of their hive mind and save Luminara."
"I wasn't the one who wanted to study a literal brain worm, you big nerd. We could have saved her five minutes earlier."
They bickered for a time (to the amusement of the women) before Padme firmly cut them off and told the rest of the story, including their private marriage ceremony on Naboo.
"I'm so sorry you didn't have a proper wedding with friends and family," Satine said empathetically. "We should change that."
"It's okay," Padme said, waving aside the concern. "Honestly, it was refreshing to do something out of the spotlight. Since neither of us has much privacy."
"It is something to think about." Obi-Wan gave a nod towards his former apprentice. "Your marriage is no longer secret and will be the subject of numerous tabloids. Perhaps it might be best to get it out in the open before nosy reporters can."
Neither Padme or Anakin said anything, the latter merely shrugged. He wasn't too preoccupied with pomp and ceremony. As long as he had his wife, they didn't need some huge spectacle gunking up their already complicated lives.
"In any case…" Obi-Wan raised his wine glass. "I'd like to make a toast: to the love and the happiness we've found with each other. May we celebrate the coming days."
The others did the same, clinking them together, though Anakin pondered as he swung back the rest of the wine. Joy and relief were followed by that familiar bubbling, squeezing feeling in his stomach. He agreed with Obi-Wan's words, so why was he still afraid?
At long last, their food, piping hot and appetizing, came through. Anakin didn't know a single thing on the menu, so he settled for the closest thing to nerf burger- some kind of fancy offworld meat with a side of home fries dipped in three kinds of seasoning. He stared at the litter of silverware in front of him.
"How the hell is anyone supposed to know what kind fork to use?" he muttered a little too loudly for the waiter to hear. Padme gave him an annoyed nudge.
"What? It's true."
"Just use the longest fork and sharpest knife, Anakin," Obi-Wan said gently as he twisted around some kind of noodle dish.
Anakin was about to make another snarky comment when the Force gave a sudden start. Not the bad kind but in a crowd of unknown beings, he identified something quite familiar.
"Ani?" Padme asked. The look on Obi-Wan's face was borderline comical, as he stared past his shoulder.
Slowly, he turned around and saw none other than Ahsoka Tano in a dress, wearing makeup, standing next to Lux Bonteri. On top of that, she was holding his hand.
"Ahsoka?"
"Ummm…hi Master."
It would have been funny if it weren't so random. Like waxworks, all three Jedi stared at each other until Padme broke the ice.
"Ahsoka," she said in a cheery voice. "Are you here with Senator Bonteri?"
"Well…yes," Lux answered, turning pink. He did not let go of the Togruta's hand.
More long, awkward seconds ticked by. Obi-Wan had a very nonplussed expression but nothing that indicated disapproval. Anakin on the other hand had narrowed his eyes.
"Really?"
Anakin had always felt protective of Ahsoka even as she matured and became quite capable of taking care of herself. But when it came to boys, all bets were off. A strong urge came over him to move this boy away from his 'Snips'. Preferably out of a high story window.
"Well, isn't this just wonderful?" Satine said, clasping her hands together. "Congratulations!"
Before anyone could say anything, the holo TV at the edge of the bar area suddenly changed channels. The entire dining crowd quieted down when they saw it was Bail Organa, sitting at his Chancellor's desk with a pleasant expression but also a determined one.
Anakin received a funny feeling through the Force. So did Obi-Wan. Something monumental was about to happen.
"Shhh!" someone yelled.
"It's the Chancellor."
"Good evening my fellow citizens and compatriots. I humbly ask for five minutes of your time for a very special announcement."
No one said a word. Not even Anakin. He too was transfixed on what Bail Organa had to say.
"The state of the Republic for the past two weeks has been precarious and uncertain. In fact, that likely understates the problems facing our democracy. It poses two key questions: how does one undo the damage done by a craven, would-be demagogue? And what can we, the representatives of this famed body, do to fix it?
I've spent many days wrestling with this issue. Had open discussions with many wise and many famed lawmakers, who I thank for their input. There are no easy decisions in democracy, but there are the right ones. And I believe that this one will prove to be right."
Anakin looked at Padme, whose face was just as confounded with everyone else's. Apparently no one, not even those closest to Organa knew what kind of direction he would take.
"By the power still vested in me, I declare two proclamations via executive order granted to the Supreme Chancellor under this directive. I dissolve the remnants of this Republic and call for a new Constitutional Convention to establish a new government. A government which will subtract the weaknesses of the old and find strength in new ideas. A government that will truly serve the interests of the people, not the rich and privileged. To that end, I have instructed every planet, both Republic and Confederacy, to send delegations to this convention here on Coruscant, in an effort to form a more perfect union. Though there will be bitter feelings and difficult debates, they are necessary for what is to come. Compromise and unification will be tools at our disposal, not blasters and bloodshed."
Bail Organa then took on the most serious scowl Anakin had ever seen from the man.
"The second proclamation is to dismantle the Trade Federation, Commerce Guild, Corporate Alliance, and Techno Union. Four conglomerates that have been allowed to abuse, steal, and profit endlessly with little consequence. They shall be stripped of their representation in the Senate and their leaders put on trial for war crimes. All assets are officially forfeited to be confiscated and later given to the people they've trampled on. Refusal to comply, will result in arrest, by force if necessary.
I've arranged for an official rotation date to give every world enough time to pick their respective leaders. Following ratification of the new constitution, new parliamentary elections will follow. I encourage every member in every corner of the galaxy to participate."
The scowl morphed into a restrained but kind smile. Bail's eyes glimmered with the hope of someone on the verge of creating something wondrous.
"The time for petty grievances and selfishness has passed. This is an opportunity to build something not only for ourselves, but for our children, grandchildren, and beyond. It is my hope…no, my belief, that we are at the shore of a new beginning, the dawn of a new era.
Long live democracy. And may the Force be with us."
No one spoke for at least five minutes after the Acting Chancellor disappeared from the screen. Force sensitive or not, everyone could feel the power behind his words. The manifestation of an incredible phenomenon taking shape at the beating heart of the galaxy.
Nothing would ever be the same.
A/N #1- For the few of you who wanted to see some Ahsoka and Lux shipping, this is my gift to you lol. To those of you who didn't, please don't complain.
A/N #2- The Jedi Order isn't finished reforming yet, but that will be addressed more in the sequel.
A/N #3- There are quite a few parallels I drew from real life into Star Wars politics, both modern and historical. I'll leave it at that.
A/N #4- I'm not sure what Yoda and Dooku's relationship was like prior to his fall, but I headcanon that Dooku's brilliance, discipline and talent were admired by Yoda and that he was an excellent student.
A/N #5- Just in case it wasn't clear, only Padme knows Anakin slaughtered an entire Tusken village. Obi-Wan knows his mother was killed by Tuskens on Tatooine and that Anakin buried her, but nothing else.
And that does it for now. I hope to have the next update out by late October or early November. Rock on!
~The Wasp