Welcome to a new chapter!
Anakin Skywalker, our young protagonist, has finally discovered the true identity of his enigmatic guests. Although their arrival on Tatooine was not for the reasons he imagined, their presence has ignited a spark within him, one he has never felt before.
Being a Jedi is more than just a simple curiosity for Anakin. There is something about that life that draws him in, something that calls to him in a way he does not yet fully understand. It is as if he were destined for it… and yet, he will soon learn that being a Jedi is not just about glory and heroism. It is discipline, it is sacrifice, it is following a code that, in time, will test his own desires and convictions.
But for now, Anakin can only marvel at the extraordinary presence of his new guests. In his home, under the scorching twin suns of Tatooine, he welcomes the last Jedi of the galaxy and the young fugitive queen of Naboo… the very one who, from the moment he saw her, became his greatest fascination.
I want to thank grantcourtney for sharing your thoughts. I'm glad to hear you're enjoying the story and that you feel I'm adapting this alternate universe well. I look forward to reading more of your impressions as the plot unfolds. I hope you continue following the story with the same enthusiasm!
And what did everyone else think of the story? I would love to hear your thoughts! Don't forget to leave your comments!
Let's continue reading exactly where we left off.
STARS DESTINIES – VOLUME 1
THE AWAKENING OF A HERO – CHAPTER 4
The group continued walking through the dusty streets of Tatooine. Anakin walked in silence, lost in thought. Obi-Wan's words about what it meant to be a Jedi still echoed in his mind.
Who would have imagined that this man, who at first glance seemed so ordinary, was actually a Jedi? A real Jedi.
But what troubled him the most was not just that, it was what Obi-Wan had revealed afterward. He was the last Jedi in the galaxy.
It was hard to believe. Especially after all the grand stories he had heard about them, the legends that spoke of their wisdom and power, of their unwavering sense of justice. How could they all be gone, leaving only one behind? How had something so devastating happened?
The questions tormented him, but he knew this was not the time to seek answers. That time would come. For now, he had a more pressing task, to introduce his guests to his mother.
The thought made him shiver slightly. What would she say when she found out they were offering shelter to the last Jedi? How would she react upon seeing Padmé, a real queen?
Instinctively, he turned his head to look at her. Although the group walked in silence, she noticed his gaze and offered him a warm smile. His chest tightened. She was so beautiful...
How had he lived nine years without knowing her? Now that he thought about it, he felt as if he could not live without her. It was a troubling thought, yet undeniable.
Her name was so beautiful that, despite having learned it just moments ago, it felt as if he had known it his whole life. As if he had been waiting for her forever, as if, in some way he did not understand, she and he had been destined to meet.
Before he knew it, they were standing in front of his home. He stopped by the door, his hand brushing against the worn surface in an almost instinctive gesture.
"Well, here we are" he announced, turning to face them "We don't have much to offer, but I hope you'll be comfortable."
Before any insecurity could take hold of him, he felt a hand on his shoulder.
"Whatever you offer us will be perfect" Padmé said gently "because you are offering it from the heart."
The warmth of her touch spread through his skin, and for a moment, Anakin felt inexplicably invincible.
Inside the modest dwelling, Shmi Skywalker moved calmly, setting dinner on the table. Her home, small and humble, would now house more people than usual, which meant more mouths to feed. She did not mind the extra effort; what worried her was the scarcity. Life on Tatooine was not easy, and every portion of food mattered.
However, when Anakin had spoken so excitedly about the strangers who needed shelter, she had not hesitated to open her doors. She knew her son's heart—pure, generous, incapable of ignoring someone in need. And if he said they were good people, then she had to believe him.
Shmi had never had much, but what little she had, she had always given sincerely. Hospitality was a luxury in a world as unforgiving as Tatooine, but it was also one of the few things that still made her feel free.
So, even though these travelers had not a single credit to their names, she would share what she could. Not because she expected anything in return, but because, deep in her heart, she still believed in kindness. And if fate had brought them to her doorstep, then perhaps it was not just by chance.
Her thoughts were interrupted by hurried footsteps outside. Before she could react, the door swung open, and Anakin burst in with his usual energy.
"Mom, we're back!" the boy announced as he entered.
Shmi set down what she had in her hands and turned with a patient smile. She was used to her son's boundless curiosity and his tendency to make new friends without hesitation. But when she saw who accompanied him, her expression shifted from surprise to caution.
Behind Anakin, a tall young man in earth-toned robes entered with a calm step. His posture marked him as someone different from the usual inhabitants of Tatooine. Beside him, a young woman with chestnut hair looked around with a curious but polite expression. And behind them, a strange creature with long ears and speckled skin stumbled through the doorway, almost tripping over the threshold.
"Mom, these are the visitors who need our help" Anakin said excitedly, looking up at her "They're the friends I told you about."
Shmi observed the newcomers with curiosity and caution. It was not every day that someone came to Mos Espa seeking refuge, much less someone who stirred such enthusiasm in her son.
The man, with his serene demeanor and dignified bearing, stepped forward and inclined his head slightly in respect.
"I am Obi-Wan Kenobi, madam. Your son has been incredibly kind to offer us his home, allowing us to rest under a roof instead of spending the night in the streets."
Before Shmi could respond, Anakin moved closer to her and, in a not-so-discreet whisper, loud enough for everyone to hear, added excitedly:
"He's actually a Jedi, Mom."
Shmi frowned, clearly puzzled.
"A Jedi Knight?" she repeated, as if the words felt foreign in her mouth "But Ani, we don't have any of those around here."
Upon hearing that nickname, Padmé felt something in her soften. She had always called him by his full name, never thinking much of it. But now, hearing the gentle "Ani" from his mother's lips, it felt like it suited him perfectly. So natural, so sweet. Without realizing it, she felt an urge to call him that too, as if the nickname reflected the closeness she was already beginning to feel toward him.
"But he is" Anakin insisted eagerly "A real Jedi! And he's from the Republic! They all are from the Republic!"
Shmi looked at the group with a mix of astonishment and doubt. The Republic… To her, it was just a distant name, an echo of a world they were not a part of. But if Anakin said it with such conviction, then perhaps, for the first time in a long while, the Republic had found its way to their home.
"I am Padmé Amidala" the young woman introduced herself with a radiant smile "It is truly a pleasure to meet you. You and your son have been incredibly kind to us."
Her tone was warm and sincere, and when she shook Shmi's hand, her touch was delicate, lacking the roughness of someone accustomed to hard labor.
Shmi studied her closely as she returned the gesture. Now that she had the young woman so close, she understood everything Anakin had told her about her. She was beautiful, but not just in a superficial way, there was something about her presence that set her apart from any other young woman Shmi had ever seen on Tatooine. Her skin was smooth, untouched by the scorching suns or the callouses that came with a life of physical toil. Her hair, silky and well-kept, shimmered with an uncommon luster in a world where the harsh climate and lack of resources made such an appearance nearly impossible.
But beyond her beauty, what stood out to Shmi the most was the way she carried herself. There was a natural grace in her, a refined poise that contrasted sharply with the roughness of the desert. Yet, she did not behave with arrogance or the condescension of the off-worlders who occasionally passed through Mos Espa. Instead, her demeanor was genuine, almost endearing.
In that instant, Shmi understood everything.
Anakin was not just dazzled by this young woman's beauty. He was fascinated by her, by everything she represented. Padmé was unlike anyone he had ever met on Tatooine, not just because of her looks, but because of her very essence. And the way her son gazed at her left no doubt: this was not mere admiration, it was devotion.
It was also impossible for Shmi not to notice how the young woman's dress clung delicately to her figure, accentuating every curve with an effortless elegance. And if she had noticed it, there was no doubt in her mind that Anakin had as well. Her son was observant, someone who rarely let details escape him. And details as charming as those… there was no way they had gone unnoticed by him.
Shmi sighed inwardly. Her son was lost, caught in a feeling far too big for his young heart. And she could not blame him. The young woman before her was a vision, a glimpse of another world—a reflection of everything Anakin had dreamed of and longed for.
"She is actually a queen, Mom. Of an entire planet! Isn't that amazing?" Anakin said, pulling her out of her thoughts.
Shmi raised her eyebrows in surprise.
"Is that so? But you're so young… Did your parents, the king and queen, pass away?"
"No, my parents are alive and… I hope they are safe."
A brief silence settled between them. Padmé lowered her gaze, her thoughts drifting back to her home, to the faces of her parents and sister. She did not know when, if ever, she would see them again.
"I bet they're fine" Anakin interjected with a reassuring smile "If they're as brave as you, I have no doubt."
Padmé's cheeks warmed with a soft blush at his words. For a brief moment, the others seemed to take note of the moment unfolding between them.
But then, Shmi's voice gently broke the silence.
"It's still hard for me to believe someone your age is a queen."
"Oh, that's just how things work on Naboo," Padmé explained naturally. "If someone proves to have the skills to be a good leader, age is not a limitation. On my world, we traditionally elect young monarchs because it is believed that youth brings fresh ideas and a new perspective. There have been other teenage queens before me."
"Wow… that's really impressive" Shmi admitted, looking at her with newfound admiration "So, your people chose you?"
"Yes" Padmé nodded with quiet pride "From a young age, I trained in public service. I participated in political and diplomatic education programs, and over time, I developed a strong sense of responsibility toward my people. When the time came for elections, I ran… and my people placed their trust in me."
"Well, I'm sure they also chose you because you're very smart" Anakin added with a bright smile.
Padmé could not help but smile back. For a moment, her title and responsibilities felt lighter.
"Hello! Meesa be Jar Jar Binks. Meesa very grateful for da hospitality!"
The Gungan waved enthusiastically, his overflowing energy a stark contrast to the calm atmosphere of the Skywalker home.
Shmi offered him a kind smile.
"Allow me to say that it is truly a pleasure to meet all of you."
Obi-Wan, ever composed and respectful, stepped forward, resting his hands gently on Anakin's shoulders.
"We apologize for arriving unannounced, Mrs. Skywalker. Our ship was damaged, and we are stranded on Tatooine for the time being. We have nowhere to stay… and though we do not wish to be a burden, Anakin insisted that we come speak with you."
Shmi turned her gaze to her son, who looked at her with a mix of excitement and silent pleading. She knew that expression well, it was the same one he wore whenever he found a stray creature and begged to take care of it. Anakin had a heart too big for his small frame, and when it came to helping others, his determination knew no bounds.
She exhaled softly before offering a warm smile.
"If Anakin trusts you, that is enough for me" she said with genuine kindness "Our home is humble, but you are more than welcome to stay as long as you need."
Before anyone could respond, Anakin let out a joyful cry.
"I knew you'd say that, Mom!"
Obi-Wan inclined his head in gratitude.
"We deeply appreciate your generosity."
"You have no idea how much this means to us" Padmé added sincerely.
"Then please, make yourselves at home" Shmi said before turning to her son with a tender look "Anakin, get some blankets. Dinner will be ready soon."
The boy nodded eagerly and dashed off to help, his excitement evident. The group began settling their belongings in a corner while Jar Jar curiously examined the surroundings.
"Meesa hopes the food here is as delicious as on Naboo" the Gungan commented with a hopeful smile.
Padmé, however, couldn't shake off her unease.
"I can't believe we're making their already difficult situation even more complicated" she whispered with concern.
"I know" Obi-Wan replied in a low voice "But we have no other choice. Without resources or allies, we must accept their hospitality… and help in any way we can to make up for it."
At that moment, Shmi returned from the kitchen with a warm expression on her face.
"Come closer, you must be very hungry."
Padmé stepped forward.
"Mrs. Skywalker, we can help with the household chores while we're here. We don't want to be a burden."
Shmi observed her with a mix of curiosity and appreciation.
"You are not a burden, dear. But I must admit, it's not common for young people to offer help without being asked… let alone someone of your status."
Padmé smiled humbly.
"I've learned that we all have to do our part, no matter who we are."
Shmi's eyes reflected admiration.
"You are truly wise for someone so young. But please, call me Shmi, you don't need to address me so formally all the time."
And with that simple exchange, a bond of respect and understanding began to form between the two women.
Shmi couldn't help but think that Padmé was a kind-hearted young woman, and undoubtedly, she would make an excellent daughter-in-law… if she ever came to return her son's feelings. True, he was just a boy now, but he wouldn't always be. In time, he would leave childhood behind to become a strong and handsome man, as destiny surely intended. And though it might just be a mother's wishful thinking, she wanted to believe that when that day came, the young woman would finally notice him with the same affection he already felt for her.
Meanwhile, Obi-Wan looked around, mentally noting every detail of the home. He knew their stay here couldn't be permanent, but for now, at least, they had shelter.
For the first time in a long while, he felt like they could breathe. Even if just for a moment.
Anakin rushed back, arms full of blankets and a bright smile on his face.
"I brought the blankets, Mom" he announced eagerly "How are we organizing the sleeping arrangements?"
Shmi sat down by the table, motioning for them to do the same as she served the food.
"Our home is humble, and we only have two rooms" she explained calmly "So we'll have to manage as best as we can. Anakin, while our guests are here, you and I will share the same bed."
Anakin tried not to grimace, but he couldn't help feeling slightly annoyed. It wasn't that he minded sleeping next to his mother, but sharing a bed made him feel like a little kid… and the last thing he wanted right now was to seem like a child in front of Padmé. Still, he understood there was no other option.
Shmi continued with the sleeping arrangements.
"Padmé, you will sleep in Anakin's room. That way, you'll have a bit of privacy."
The boy's heart skipped a beat.
Padmé. In his room. In his bed.
It was a strange and fascinating idea, stirring a warmth inside him that he didn't entirely understand.
Unaware of her son's dazed expression, Shmi carried on.
"The young Jedi and our Gungan friend will have the living room at their disposal. You can settle in here if that works for you."
Obi-Wan nodded calmly.
"That's perfect. We truly appreciate it."
Padmé, however, looked at Anakin with tenderness, as if she felt guilty for taking over his space.
"I don't want to take your room, Ani."
Anakin felt his chest tighten. No one had ever said his name with such sweetness, so naturally affectionate.
And it was Padmé saying it.
The idea of her being in his room, surrounded by his things, lying where he usually slept… it was a thought that filled him with an emotion he couldn't quite describe.
He cleared his throat and forced a smile.
"Don't worry" he said, trying to sound casual "It'll be an honor to let you use my room while you're here."
Padmé smiled and, without thinking, gave him a gentle squeeze on his arm.
"You're very sweet, Ani."
Anakin felt his face burn, and for the first time, he was grateful for the dim lighting in the house, which hid the sudden blush on his cheeks.
Moments later, everyone began settling in for the night in the small Skywalker home.
As Anakin finished arranging some blankets in the living room, a metallic voice full of indignation caught his attention.
"Master Ani, I don't understand why we must give up our room for a girl" C-3PO complained in his usual reproachful tone.
Anakin rolled his eyes with a smile and gently pushed the golden droid out of the room.
"She's not just any girl, 3PO" he corrected with a mix of exasperation and longing "She's the most beautiful one in the universe."
C-3PO tilted his head in confusion, though without his outer plating, his expression was nothing more than a slight incline of his exposed head.
"And where am I supposed to sleep?"
"With the others, in the living room" Anakin replied matter-of-factly.
Before the droid could continue complaining, a series of beeps and whistles caught his attention. R2-D2 was approaching with curiosity, emitting a friendly sequence of sounds.
C-3PO straightened up with dignity, ready to introduce himself properly.
"Oh, hello. I believe we haven't been introduced."
The little astromech droid let out an informal series of beeps, enthusiastically introducing himself.
"R2-D2. It's a pleasure to meet you. I am C-3PO, human-cyborg relations."
R2-D2 remained silent for a moment before emitting a sound that, to anyone else, would seem like a simple vibration. But Anakin recognized the teasing tone in his response.
"What do you mean I'm naked?" 3PO exclaimed, alarmed.
Anakin burst into laughter just as R2-D2 let out a series of playful beeps.
"My circuits are showing? That can't be!"
The protocol droid began inspecting himself nervously, while the little astromech emitted a sound that resembled a metallic chuckle.
Still laughing, Anakin glanced over to where Obi-Wan was settling down to sleep. The Jedi had left his leather bag to the side, and inside it, just barely visible, was the hilt of his lightsaber.
The boy's heart pounded faster. This was his chance.
He moved silently, careful not to make a sound. If he could just hold it for a moment… examine it, understand how it worked…
Just as he reached out to grab it, a swift and precise movement stopped him. Before he could react, Obi-Wan had caught his wrist firmly.
"What do you think you're doing?" the Jedi asked, his voice calm but with a clear note of warning.
Anakin swallowed hard.
"I just wanted to see how your lightsaber works."
Obi-Wan studied him, raising an eyebrow but not letting go yet.
"A lightsaber is a Jedi's weapon, Anakin. And you are not a Jedi. You can't just take it because you feel like it."
"I didn't mean to do anything wrong" the boy quickly explained, a mix of nerves and excitement in his voice "I just… I want to see how it's built. Maybe I could make some improvements."
The Jedi watched him with curiosity. There was something about the way Anakin spoke… an absolute certainty in his voice, as if he truly believed he could improve the construction of a lightsaber without ever having held one before.
Finally, Obi-Wan smiled slightly and, after a brief pause, released his grip.
"Alright."
Anakin blinked in surprise.
"Really?"
Obi-Wan nodded and carefully placed the lightsaber in the boy's hands.
Anakin could barely believe it.
The weight of the weapon in his hands was perfect, balanced… different from any tool he had ever held before. His fingers ran over the hilt, feeling the small details in the design, the texture of the cold metal.
"It's incredible..." he murmured in awe.
Obi-Wan watched him in silence, a mix of amusement and reflection in his eyes. There was something about Anakin… a spark, a fire in his gaze that reminded him of someone.
His former master used to have the same look whenever he encountered something that sparked his curiosity. That same mix of intellect and unwavering faith in his own abilities, that willingness to challenge the established order without a second thought.
Obi-Wan observed as Anakin continued to examine the lightsaber, his eyes reflecting pure fascination. After igniting it, the boy held it so naturally, as if he had wielded one before, as if it were an extension of himself. It was instinctive, almost unsettling.
"Does every Jedi make their own lightsaber?" Anakin asked, interrupting Obi-Wan's thoughts.
"That's right" the young Jedi crossed his arms "A lightsaber is more than just a weapon. It's a manifestation of a Jedi's connection to the Force. Each one builds their own, with their own crystal, their own design… It's something unique."
Anakin nodded with interest, then his eyes landed on the leather bag, discovering the second saber.
"You have two lightsabers? That's awesome" without waiting for a response, he picked up the second weapon and ignited it.
The green blade shone brightly, casting flickering reflections on his face.
Obi-Wan watched him seriously.
"That one belonged to my master."
Anakin looked up at him.
"Did he teach you everything you know?"
Obi-Wan took a moment to respond.
"When I became his Padawan, I had already spent years training in the Jedi Temple. But under his guidance, I truly understood what it meant to be a Jedi."
Anakin spun both sabers in his hands, testing their weight with almost instinctive movements.
"And would you like to have a Padawan?" he asked, still comparing the glow of both blades. Obi-Wan's blue and Qui-Gon's green seemed to pulse with a life of their own.
Obi-Wan felt a lump in his throat.
"I don't think I'll be training a Padawan anytime soon. Not with the situation as it is."
Anakin turned off the sabers, but his next comment caught Obi-Wan by surprise.
"Then you'll remain the last Jedi."
There was something in the way he said it, a hidden truth in his voice. Obi-Wan narrowed his eyes, studying him.
The last Jedi.
As long as he didn't train anyone, that was his reality. But somehow, in the way Anakin looked at him, in the way he had wielded the sabers so naturally… he felt, for a moment, that it wouldn't always be that way.
"I suppose the Force will decide that" Obi-Wan replied with a faint smile.
Anakin frowned, thoughtful.
"Does the Force also choose the color of a lightsaber?"
"Yes" the Jedi nodded "When a Jedi finds their kyber crystal, it is the Force that guides that connection. Each crystal responds uniquely, reflecting the essence of the one who wields it. That's why the colors vary and have different meanings."
Anakin's eyes sparkled with curiosity.
"It must be incredible to be a Jedi… to have a lightsaber, to move with that speed and those reflexes like the ones you used when you caught me a moment ago. By the way, how did you know I was going to take your saber?"
Obi-Wan watched him with interest.
"It's not easy to surprise a Jedi. The Force surrounds us at all times, whispering warnings, allowing us to sense the flow of what happens around us."
The boy nodded slowly, absorbing every word.
"Has there ever been someone who could use the Force without being a Jedi?"
Obi-Wan considered the question before answering.
"As far as I know, the Jedi Order has always been the path for those connected to the Force. But the galaxy is vast, and there are many things even the Jedi don't fully understand."
Anakin couldn't help but smile at that response.
"Maybe I'll be the first, then."
Obi-Wan looked at him curiously.
From a distance, Shmi watched the scene with a mix of tenderness and melancholy. Anakin had always lacked a father figure in his life. Growing up in a world where most children had a father to look up to, he had only his questions and the incomplete answers she could provide.
She had explained that he had no father, that his arrival into the world had been different, but how could she explain something she didn't even understand herself? Sometimes, Anakin seemed to accept her answer with the innocent faith of a child, but other times, Shmi saw in his eyes the longing for what he had never had.
And now, as she watched him with the young Jedi, she noticed something in her son that she had rarely seen before: admiration. His eyes lit up every time Obi-Wan spoke to him with patience, every time the knight answered his questions without irritation, with genuine interest.
She didn't know what fate awaited her son when these strangers left. The future was uncertain, as uncertain as life itself on Tatooine. But at least for now, Anakin had someone to look up to, someone who, even if only for a brief moment, seemed to fill the void of a father figure in his life.
And that, even if just for an instant, made her mother's heart feel at peace.
Meanwhile, Anakin bid goodnight to his new Jedi friend.
"Well, I'd better let you rest. I have to go too. I want to take some blankets to Padmé. If you need anything, just let me know."
The Jedi gave him a sincere smile.
"Thank you, Anakin. You're a good kid."
As Anakin walked away, Obi-Wan watched him in silence. There was something different about him. The Force seemed to swirl around him in a way he couldn't quite understand.
Once settled into the modest room, Padmé let out a soft sigh as her gaze wandered over every corner. Anakin's room was simple, but every object in it told a story. She quickly noticed the small droids in various stages of repair, some half-assembled, others taken apart, their pieces scattered across the worktable. Alongside them were tools, nuts, and screws of different sizes, clear evidence of the restless ingenuity of the boy who lived there.
On a shelf, Padmé discovered a collection of worn-out cards, likely from a game or a series he liked. She also found a few toys, including a small metal figurine that resembled a droid and a tiny scale-model starship. She smiled as she held it in her hands, imagining Anakin recreating space battles in his mind.
There was no doubt that her young host was fascinated by mechanics and speed. Everything in the room reflected that passion, from the scattered parts to the carefully arranged starship models in the corner.
Then, one particular object caught her attention. On the bedside table lay a small, round, dusty device. Cautiously, Padmé picked it up and activated it. At once, a soft blue glow illuminated the room, projecting a hologram.
Padmé's heart melted at the image: a three-year-old Anakin, round-cheeked and bright-eyed, embraced lovingly by his mother. The woman held him tenderly, smiling with the warmth of someone who was the entire world to her child.
Padmé watched the scene for a long moment. In that instant, she understood just how much love Anakin had known in his life.
A gentle knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts. She blinked, returning to the present, and only then realized her attire, she had changed into a delicate nightgown but hadn't bothered to take a robe from her luggage. Immediately, nervousness washed over her.
"What if it's Obi-Wan?"
The mere thought made her press her lips together anxiously, but the voice of a child quickly eased her tension.
"It's me, Padmé" Anakin said from the other side of the door "I brought you some blankets."
Exhaling in relief, she decided there was no harm in receiving him like this. After all, he was just a child. Without overthinking, she opened the door and let him in… but the moment she saw the way he looked at her, she regretted it instantly.
Anakin stood frozen, his wide eyes filled with astonishment, unable to tear his gaze away from her.
Her long, slightly wavy hair cascaded naturally over her shoulders, framing her face with a softness he had never noticed before. But what truly left him breathless was her attire.
He had seen her before in elegant, sophisticated dresses, their fabric hugging her body in a way that accentuated her graceful figure and noble posture. He liked seeing her in those dresses, as they highlighted the gentle curve of her breasts, the slenderness of her waist, and the fullness of her hips.
But now… now he was seeing her in a completely different way.
The delicate, lightweight nightgown gave her an intimate, closer appearance. It didn't cling to her form as much as her gowns did, but because of the thinness of the fabric, he noticed something new, small, delicate buttons pressing against the soft material at the tips of her breasts.
There was no doubt that the girl before him looked like a beautiful vision. And for Anakin, it was difficult to decide in which outfit she looked more stunning, those elegant dresses that framed her lovely shape or this simple nightgown, which revealed a Padmé he had never seen before.
There was something in the boy's expression, the way his lips seemed to hesitate between speaking or staying silent, the uncertainty in his gaze, that left Padmé feeling a little uneasy.
A pure, innocent wonder shone in his blue eyes, reflecting a fascination the queen hadn't expected, one that caught her completely off guard.
Instinctively, she crossed her arms over her breasts, as if trying to create a barrier between herself and the intensity of his scrutiny. But the gesture was more of a reflex than a true desire to push him away. Because, as strange as it seemed, there was something in his gaze that completely captivated her.
"What were you saying, Ani?" she asked, trying to sound natural.
He blinked several times, struggling to remember why he was there.
"Huh? Oh… yeah… I brought you blankets" he said suddenly, clumsily holding them out as if they were an offering.
Padmé hesitantly uncrossed her arms to take them, receiving them gently. But instead of folding them or setting them aside, she instinctively held them against her body, covering herself with them almost automatically, as if they were a shield.
"You're very kind, Ani" she said, offering him a smile.
Anakin nodded, still unable to completely look away. He didn't understand why his heart was pounding so fast, why his chest felt so strange. He only knew that he wanted to stay there a little longer.
Then, as if suddenly remembering something, he pointed toward the door leading to the backyard.
"You know, before going to sleep, I like to watch the stars" he said enthusiastically "Do you want to see them with me?"
The invitation caught her by surprise, but there was something in the boy's excitement that made her nod without hesitation.
"Of course" she agreed, still using the blankets as a shield.
They stepped outside together, and the moment Padmé looked up, she was mesmerized.
The Tatooine sky was vast, dark, and deep, scattered with thousands of twinkling stars. There was a rawness to the view, an unembellished beauty that took her breath away.
Normally, each night before bed, she liked to brush her hair while gazing at the stars from the palace balcony, her home, or even her grandparents' residence. But the sky always looked the same.
This one, however, was different.
"Do you like it?" Anakin asked, a spark of excitement in his eyes.
Padmé didn't take her gaze off the starry sky, letting the night breeze caress her face.
"It's beautiful. I've never seen a sky more stunning than this" she said in a soft, almost dreamy tone as she gazed at the night sky "I like watching the stars before bed too. It brings me peace."
The Tatooine sky stretched endlessly above them, filled with twinkling lights that seemed to whisper ancient stories. Padmé had never seen a sky like this, so clear and pure, far from cities and artificial lights. It was a sight that completely enveloped her, making her forget everything else for a moment.
Without realizing it, her grip on the blankets loosened slightly. The delicate fabric slipped just a bit from her shoulders, revealing the neckline of her nightgown.
Anakin noticed immediately.
But it wasn't just the subtle shift of fabric revealing more of her neckline or the way her skin became timidly exposed that left him breathless. It was all of her, Padmé, with her loose hair glowing under the moonlight, with her lips slightly parted in a sigh that seemed to suspend time, with the sweetness of her voice floating in the night breeze, surrounding him, enchanting him.
It was her mere presence, the way her very existence seemed to blur everything else, that held him captive in an impossible-to-ignore longing.
"It's incredible…" Anakin murmured, his gaze fixed on her.
"Yes, it is" Padmé responded, smiling as she looked at the sky, thinking they were still talking about the stars above them.
"It's… radiant, shining like nothing I've ever seen before. It seems to light up everything around it without even trying…"
Padmé still didn't realize that the boy's eyes weren't on the stars but on her. And in his young mind, which didn't yet fully understand what he was feeling, there was only one certainty: he had never seen anything as beautiful as her in his entire life.
"She's perfect" he whispered, mesmerized.
The way Anakin said that last phrase made her realize instantly, he wasn't talking about the night sky.
She blinked and turned her face slightly to look at him. Although the boy quickly averted his gaze, he wasn't fast enough to hide the truth: his attention wasn't on the moon or the stars, but on her… on the way her neckline had slipped under the moonlight.
The discovery made her react instantly. Her hands clutched the blankets again, making sure to cover herself as before. However, what surprised her wasn't her own reflexive action but the absence of discomfort.
There was no shame or alarm within her. It wasn't the same as if anyone else had looked at her that way. With Anakin, the feeling was different. His gaze wasn't that of a man with hidden intentions, but of a child with a bare soul, fascinated by the beauty he had found. As if, in the universe that ruled his life, he was the only one with the right to look at her that way.
The most unsettling thing was that, for some reason, she didn't correct him. More than once, she had caught him looking at her like that, with that intensity that made her feel both vulnerable and flattered. And yet, she never reprimanded him or asked him to stop. Every time she discovered him watching her that way, an unfamiliar warmth rose to her face, coloring it crimson, but it wasn't shame she felt. There was something else, something that sent shivers down her spine.
Because in his gaze, there wasn't just simple admiration; there was devotion. As if, to him, no one else in the galaxy existed, as if she were a hidden treasure, a wonder that only he could fully see. Something in the way he looked at her whispered that, at least to him, she was unique, irreplaceable, as if she were the brightest star in the vast firmament.
The boy noticed that his beautiful companion had subtly but deliberately ensured that her neckline was once again covered by the blankets, concealing the soft skin that had been exposed. A flicker of disappointment crossed his face, though he quickly masked it.
How he regretted bringing those damn blankets.
It was an irrational thought, he knew, but he couldn't help it. There was something about the warmth of her skin, the way the starlight played upon it, that had mesmerized him, and now that fleeting glimpse was slipping through his fingers.
But he couldn't let his frustration take over. Resigned and firmly determined to impress her in some other way, Anakin took a deep breath and decided to change the subject.
"Did you see the protocol droid walking around the house?" he asked enthusiastically.
"Oh, yes" Padmé replied, recalling the friendly and talkative droid she had seen earlier "He's very charming."
"I built him myself."
She raised her eyebrows, genuinely surprised.
"You? Really?" She looked at him with admiration "Well, I shouldn't be surprised. You're incredibly skilled and talented for your age."
Anakin straightened a little, clearly pleased with the compliment.
"Tomorrow, I'll show you something you'll love" he said eagerly "A podracer I'm building myself."
Padmé tilted her head, curious but honest.
"I don't know much about ships or droids. That's not my forte, but I can see it's yours."
Anakin smiled confidently.
"I'll explain. Podracing is a huge event on this planet. It's dangerous, very risky, and I'm the only human who's ever managed to compete."
Padmé blinked, surprised.
"They sound dangerous… I can't imagine how your poor mother must feel every time you race."
Anakin's face darkened slightly.
"She gets really anxious every time Watto forces me to race."
The mention of the unpleasant Toydarian made Padmé clench her jaw. She already had her arms crossed over her chest, using the blankets as a shield, but upon hearing that, she crossed them even tighter, feeling a growing indignation.
"He forces you?" she asked, trying to contain her irritation.
But Anakin didn't seem bothered by it. He shrugged with a carefree smile.
"Yes, but I like it. I don't mind racing. It's dangerous, sure, but it's really exciting."
The way he said it, with that mix of pride and genuine enthusiasm, made Padmé wonder how much of that excitement was real and how much was a way to cope with his situation.
"Well, I'll let you sleep, Padmé" Anakin said with a smile, though his voice was a bit softer, as if he didn't really want to say goodnight just yet.
"Thank you, Ani" she replied warmly as they walked back to the room.
The boy stopped just at the door and gestured toward the adjacent room.
"Mom and I are right next door. If you need anything, just call us."
"You're very kind, Ani."
Anakin hesitated for a second before speaking, as if weighing his words carefully.
"Hey… is it true that girls like compliments?"
Padmé raised an eyebrow, amused by the question.
"Well… yes" she admitted "It's true. We like them a lot."
Anakin smiled, satisfied with the answer. Then, with the innocence of a child but the conviction of someone older, he said:
"Then let me tell you that your pajamas are very pretty… and that I love how you look in them."
Padmé immediately felt warmth rush to her cheeks. She hadn't expected such a direct comment, least of all from a nine-year-old boy. Her first instinct was to clutch the blankets tighter, as if they could hide her sudden blush.
"Th-thank you… that was a lovely compliment" she managed to say, trying to sound natural.
Anakin looked at her for a moment longer, with that mix of admiration and fascination that suddenly made her feel far too observed. But finally, with one last smile, he stepped out of the room and closed the door behind him.
Only then did Padmé let out a sigh, feeling like she could finally breathe normally again.
Outside, Anakin remained motionless in front of the door, his hand still resting on the doorknob. He didn't want to let go. It was as if, by maintaining contact, he could prolong the moment just a little longer, cling to the feeling of being close to Padmé, the beautiful girl who had completely captivated him.
With one last sigh, the boy finally released the doorknob of his room… the room that now belonged to Padmé. The thought of her being there, in his space, among his things, breathing the same air as him, had fascinated him from the very first moment. Almost like magic.
But now, as he walked away down the hallway, a pang of sadness settled in his chest. Each step took him farther from her, even if only by a few meters. He entered his mother's room, the one they would share while the outsiders stayed in their home.
She would be in his room all that time. Day and night, every time he passed by the door, she would be inside. Anakin could only hope that she would stay for a long time.
He let himself fall onto his mother's bed with a dreamy sigh, but Shmi's voice pulled him from his thoughts.
"It's time to sleep, Ani" she reminded him gently "Or you won't want to get up in the morning."
Anakin settled onto his side, smiling.
"She's going to stay with us for an indefinite time" he murmured, his eyes shining "Isn't that wonderful, Mom?"
Shmi looked at him tenderly, though there was a hint of concern in her expression.
"Yes, Ani…" she whispered. She paused for a moment before cautiously asking "But tell me, are you still sure she doesn't feel anything for the young Jedi?"
For the first time that night, Anakin's smile faded slightly.
"Obi-Wan is just her friend" he said, almost defensively, as if the mere idea of Padmé having feelings for him was absurd. Then he thought "And besides, he doesn't look at her the way I do."
Shmi watched him in silence, her gaze soft yet full of wisdom. She knew that her son's heart already belonged to that young woman, even if he didn't fully understand it yet. But she also knew how painful it was to place feelings in someone without the guarantee of being reciprocated.
"You're a very special boy, Ani" she murmured with a small smile, running her fingers through his hair "But remember… there are things we cannot force."
Anakin frowned.
"I don't need to force anything" he insisted "She sees me. Not as a child… but as someone special. She told me so."
Shmi sighed, not wanting to shatter his illusions.
"Then trust in that" she simply said "But now, sleep, son. Tomorrow will be a long day."
Anakin nodded with slight resignation and closed his eyes, but his mind refused to surrender to rest. The emotions of the night still burned within him, unyielding, leaving an indelible mark on his soul. Every image, every sound, every sensation continued dancing in his mind like an unquenchable fire, refusing to fade.
He relived every moment spent with Padmé with astonishing clarity, the way her nightgown had revealed secrets of her body, the way it had slipped slightly, exposing a glimpse of her soft, luminous skin under the moonlight; the slow and sweet rhythm of her breathing, almost synchronized with the hurried beating of his own heart. He heard her voice again, saying his name with a tenderness that enveloped him, with an affection he had never felt directed at him before. And her smile… that smile. It was just for him. In that moment, in that intimate space where the rest of the universe didn't exist, she belonged to him, and he to her.
His heartbeat turned into an insistent drumbeat. His skin tingled as he recalled the warmth of her presence next to his. He didn't want to forget. He couldn't. He feared that, by morning, it would all vanish like a mirage, like a dream too beautiful to be real.
His fingers clenched tightly around the sheets, clinging to that feeling, to that memory. If he could stop time, he would do so without hesitation. He wanted to remain in this night forever, where the outside world didn't matter, where nothing existed but her and him.
When sleep finally overtook him, his last conscious thought clung to a single image: Padmé.
He saw her as she was now, sleeping in his room, wrapped in the stillness of the night. Her breathing was slow and serene, her face relaxed in peaceful rest, and her hair cascaded over the pillow like a waterfall of dark silk. Anakin imagined the gentle rise and fall of her chest as she breathed, the soft glow of her skin under the dim light, and the way her nightgown caressed her curves with every delicate movement.
She was his in that instant, even if only from a distance. Even if he couldn't touch her, even if an abyss of impossibilities separated them, in his heart, there were no barriers. Because when he closed his eyes, when he surrendered to sleep, there were no masters or slaves, no Jedi or queens. There was only them.
And in his dreams, she was still there. Still smiling at him alone. A smile that carried the promise of something more, a pure and burning feeling growing between them, ignoring the outside world and its rules. In that ethereal universe, where restrictions and written destinies did not exist, Padmé belonged to him as much as he belonged to her.
As he drifted deeper into the realm of subconsciousness, a whisper remained with him, floating on the border between wakefulness and rest. He wasn't sure if it came from his own mind or if his connection with her went beyond what he could comprehend.
But he felt it. Her presence, her essence, the warmth of her soul wrapping around him.
And in his dreams, she was still there, smiling at him alone, with the promise that she would never leave his side.
The Skywalker family grew in a single night. What was once a humble home of a mother and her son now welcomed unexpected visitors: the last Jedi in the galaxy, the young fugitive queen of Naboo, and the peculiar yet ever-loyal Jar Jar Binks. A twist of fate that Anakin had never imagined, but deep down, he felt it would change his life forever.
However, there was something, or rather, someone, who occupied his thoughts more than anything else. Meeting Padmé had awakened unknown emotions in him, a whirlwind of sensations that both amazed and confused him. To him, she was a dream come true, a dazzling presence impossible to ignore.
And though his gaze might linger a bit longer than appropriate, there was no malice or hidden intentions in it. It was simply the innocent discovery of fascination and charm, of sincere admiration and the genuine feeling that enveloped him every time he looked at her.
With every moment Anakin spends with Obi-Wan, he delves deeper into the mysterious world of the Jedi. What little he has learned so far is only the surface of a long and challenging path, one that will test his spirit and his will.
Will he be able to accept everything that comes with being a Jedi? Or will his destiny take a different turn?
Thank you for joining me in this chapter.
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Don't forget to leave your comments and keep reading to find out how this story unfolds!