Welcome back, everyone! It's such a pleasure to have you here again.
I'm incredibly excited to share this part of the story with you, where relationships begin to grow stronger and bonds deepen.
The introductions are over, and now the newcomers and the Skywalker family share more than just a roof, they've formed a special bond, a new family united not only by circumstance but by trust and the desire to support one another.
Meanwhile, Anakin's feelings for the beautiful Padmé continue to grow. Every moment he spends with her, he experiences new and unfamiliar emotions, sensations that make him feel more alive, more complete... and at the same time, more anxious to understand what they truly mean.
On the other hand, during his stay in the humble Skywalker home, Obi-Wan will discover something about Anakin that will leave him utterly perplexed. A mystery that will make him question whether destiny has placed this boy in his path for a greater reason, a reason tied to the sacred oath he made to his late master.
Sophiamay: Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly means a lot to me that my story has impacted you and that you see potential in it for a comic adaptation. The idea of bringing it to a new format excites me, but for now, I want to focus on developing it in its written version.
I hope the rest of you enjoy my story as much as I enjoy writing it!
If you liked it, please don't hesitate to share your thoughts. I'd love to hear what excites you, what you're looking forward to, and what you hope to see in the upcoming chapters.
Your feedback means the world to me!
STARS DESTINIES– VOLUME 1
THE AWAKENING OF A HERO – CHAPTER 5
At dawn, Anakin and his mother quietly prepared to leave for work, moving cautiously around the house to avoid waking their guests. Obi-Wan and Jar Jar were still fast asleep in the living area, while Padmé rested in Anakin's room, wrapped in the blankets he had given her the night before.
Only when they stepped outside and put some distance between themselves and the house did mother and son allow themselves to speak, keeping their voices low, knowing that in Tatooine, any curious ear could become a danger.
"They must be exhausted" Anakin murmured "Who knows what they had to go through to get here."
"Yes…" Shmi nodded thoughtfully "They must have faced many hardships."
"What I don't understand is how Padmé, a queen, ended up here, so far from her people, with only a Jedi and a Gungan by her side."
Shmi shared the same concern but knew that pressing them for answers wouldn't help.
"We'll talk to them later" she said gently "But without asking too many questions. Whatever they choose to share will be enough."
Anakin lowered his gaze, kicking at the sand beneath his feet.
"I wish I could tell everyone that there's a Jedi in Tatooine and that he's my friend" he admitted, his excitement barely contained "But I already know I have to keep it a secret."
Shmi gave him a knowing look and ran a hand through his hair.
"For now, don't say anything to anyone. We don't want to put them at risk."
But Anakin couldn't help but smile mischievously.
"It would be amazing if people knew that Obi-Wan is a Jedi. I'd be the envy of everyone."
"You mustn't think selfishly, Ani" his mother gently reprimanded him.
Anakin frowned but wasn't discouraged.
"It's not just for me. I'm thinking about the people of Tatooine too. Imagine what it would mean for them. Don't you think I'm right?"
Shmi sighed, her gaze drifting into the distance.
"I just hope no one finds out yet. Though, as you say, it could be something good for our people. A Jedi here could bring order, peace… maybe even a little hope" her voice softened, as if afraid to believe in her own words "Imagine it, Ani… maybe even the slaves could be freed. But it's just a dream."
But Anakin didn't think it was just a dream. Not entirely.
The thought of a Jedi walking through the dusty streets of Mos Espa, of the justice he could bring, ignited something inside him. It wasn't just excitement; it was conviction.
And then, an idea began to take shape in his mind.
Maybe he didn't have to tell anyone that Obi-Wan was a Jedi. But if, somehow, people found out on their own… wouldn't that be just as good? After all, Jedi protected the weak, didn't they? And who needed protection more than the slaves of Tatooine?
He just had to find a way to make it happen without making it look intentional. Something subtle. Something clever.
And if there was one thing Anakin was good at, it was finding solutions when no one else could see them.
Back at the Skywalker home, a few hours later, Padmé woke up feeling incredibly well-rested. It was a sensation she hadn't experienced in days, not since the Trade Federation had put her world in danger. For a moment, as she opened her eyes, the room felt unfamiliar. There were no velvet curtains or luxurious furnishings, only scattered tools, droid parts, and spaceship components stacked on makeshift shelves. But she quickly remembered where she was.
A warm smile crossed her face as she thought of the wonderful boy who had welcomed her into his home with such generosity. She sat up and, with a satisfied sigh, pulled a dress from her belongings. Though fine and elegant, its many pockets would make it practical for helping with household tasks. She tied her hair back simply and, after making sure she looked presentable, stepped out of the room.
As she crossed the small home, she noticed that Anakin and his mother were gone, but Obi-Wan and Jar Jar were awake, deep in conversation.
"Good morning" she greeted with a smile "I don't think I've slept this well in days… not since the Trade Federation threatened my people."
"You certainly look more rested" Obi-Wan observed with a faint smile, noticing the renewed brightness in her expression.
Padmé nodded and pulled out a datapad from her belongings.
"I've decided we can't lose track of time" she explained "We'll keep a record of everything that happens while we're here."
She ran her fingers across the screen, calculating out loud.
"Let's see… if we left Naboo on Galactic Foundation Day and it's been two days since then, then we're close to Concordia Day."
Jar Jar tilted his head, blinking.
"And where's Ani and his mom?"
"They must be at work" Obi-Wan replied calmly, crossing his arms.
Padmé barely nodded, focused on updating her records.
"I'm going to document everything that's happened since we left Naboo" she murmured "Including the date when…"
Her voice trailed off for a moment.
"…the date when Master Qui-Gon died" she finally whispered.
Silence fell over them like a shadow. The mere mention of the fallen Jedi cast a solemn weight over the room. Jar Jar lowered his gaze, uncomfortable; Obi-Wan remained composed, but his eyes carried a heaviness that hadn't faded.
For a long moment, none of them spoke.
Meanwhile, the day went on as usual in Watto's shop, but for Anakin, every minute felt like an eternity. His eyes darted to the clock at every opportunity, counting down the seconds until the workday ended. He wanted to get out of there as soon as possible, go home, see Padmé, see Obi-Wan, be with them… with his new family.
However, his impatience did not go unnoticed.
"Stop looking at that damn clock, boy!" Watto growled irritably "Even if the day ends and you leave this place, you'll still be a slave! For the rest of your life! So, get back to work and forget about nonsense!"
The words hit him like a punch. Anger burned inside him, and his small fists clenched instinctively. He wanted to yell that Watto was wrong, that one day he would be free, that he would not spend his life as a slave. But he couldn't. He shouldn't. He had to be smart, make sure he was allowed to leave on time, or better yet, early.
He took a deep breath and lowered his gaze, pretending to obey while suppressing his rage. It wasn't worth arguing. The only thing that mattered was that, at the end of the day, he would go back to them.
Because they weren't just guests in his home anymore. Padmé, Obi-Wan, even Jar Jar… somehow, they had become his family.
Thinking about that brought him peace. It had always been just his mother and him against the world, but now… now he wasn't alone.
And best of all, Padmé was part of that family too. His beautiful Padmé. And that made him happier than he had ever imagined.
Back at the Skywalker home, the queen was focused on her datapad, recording the day's events.
"I can help with the record-keeping!" the protocol droid offered enthusiastically "I'm very good at keeping records. Of course, I've never actually recorded anything in my life, I was only activated a few days ago, but for some reason, I'm convinced I do it exceptionally well."
R2-D2 let out a series of skeptical beeps.
"I'm not making it up!" the protocol droid exclaimed, offended "It's something in my systems, a logical certainty. My programming indicates that I have outstanding skills in this field."
R2-D2 responded with more beeps, this time in a mocking tone.
"For your information, I am not arrogant" the droid retorted, adopting a dignified stance.
The little astromech let out a long, sarcastic whistle.
"Oh? And what would you know about order and organization?" the protocol droid snapped disdainfully "You're just a mechanic with delusions of grandeur."
Before the argument could escalate, Padmé looked up from her datapad and smiled patiently.
"Guys, don't argue" she intervened in a calm voice "I'm sure the two of you together will make a great team."
"I highly doubt that" the protocol droid grumbled "I don't see how I could work with someone as conceited as this R2."
R2-D2 beeped energetically, clearly disagreeing.
Padmé stifled a laugh.
"I have no doubt you'll learn to get along."
The protocol droid huffed, moving his metallic head slightly, while R2 let out a short, snarky beep.
The queen simply shook her head. Those two had barely met, yet it seemed the spark of their dynamic had already begun to ignite.
As the droids continued their bickering, Padmé finished recording the events of the past few days in her datapad, realizing just how intense everything had been. Her list was filled with pivotal moments: the invasion of Naboo, their escape, their arrival on Tatooine, Master Qui-Gon's death… too much in so little time.
"No wonder we're exhausted" she murmured, scanning her notes.
"A lot has happened since we met" Obi-Wan remarked thoughtfully.
"And there's still more to come" Jar Jar added, a mix of excitement and concern in his voice.
Padmé nodded. They couldn't afford to let their guard down, but it was also important to find moments of rest.
"Well, we should get the house ready for our hosts' return" she said, straightening with determination.
She naturally took charge and assigned tasks. Obi-Wan would organize the common areas, Jar Jar would dust the furniture, and she… she would try to prepare something to eat.
However, her confidence wavered as soon as she checked the ingredients in Shmi's small kitchen. She recognized almost nothing. Some things looked like spices, others like roots, there were oddly shaped fruits, and some kind of paste she wasn't sure if she should cook or eat as it was. She had no idea what was sweet and what was savory.
"This is going to be tricky" she muttered to herself, crossing her arms "I think for now, it's best to let Shmi handle the cooking, but I'll try to learn from her."
"There are things that smell really good!" Jar Jar said, sniffing enthusiastically at a basket of fruit "Meesa very hungry! We've been cleaning on an empty stomach."
Padmé smiled and picked some fruit from the basket. They were vibrant in color and emitted a sweet, tempting aroma.
"I suppose we can start with these" she said, handing one to Jar Jar and another to Obi-Wan.
"They taste good" the Gungan said, taking a big bite.
"Then let's eat" the queen decided, sitting down with them.
It might not be a fancy meal, but at least it would give them energy to keep going.
Later, Shmi kissed Anakin's forehead as she said goodbye. It was the third time she had to leave him at the shop as punishment, but this time, she hoped Obi-Wan would come for him before nightfall. She didn't like the idea of her son walking back alone, especially after the Tusken altercation and the incident with the ruffians who had given him a black eye.
With a heavy heart, she returned home, hoping to find her guests in better spirits. However, as she stepped inside, she was met with a completely different scene.
Obi-Wan was sitting with his elbows on his knees, massaging his temples with a tense expression. Padmé, who usually held herself with poise and grace, was slumped over one of the humble living room chairs, her head resting on her arms. Jar Jar, meanwhile, was lying on the floor, clearly unwell.
"Shmi… I think what we ate made us sick" Padmé explained weakly.
"It was just some fruit that tasted really good…" Jar Jar lamented, clutching his stomach.
"We didn't know what was safe to eat, but the fruit seemed like the safest option" Padmé added, frustration evident in her voice.
"I don't like being on a planet where fruit makes you sick" the Gungan whined, unable to move much.
Shmi frowned and approached with concern.
"What kind of fruit did you eat?" she asked, well aware of the dangers of some local foods.
If they had consumed something they shouldn't have, she needed to act quickly to prevent their discomfort from worsening.
Padmé described the fruit as best as she could, recalling its soft texture and the sweetness that had seemed so harmless. Shmi listened intently, and as soon as she recognized what they were talking about, she shook her head with a mix of understanding and worry.
"That fruit is called melaara" she explained "It should be eaten in small amounts and, preferably, boiled first. If consumed raw in excess, it can cause stomach discomfort."
Obi-Wan let out a heavy sigh, running a hand down his face.
"Wish we had known that earlier…" he muttered in resignation.
"Don't worry, I know a very effective remedy" Shmi assured them, already gathering ingredients "I'll prepare it right away."
As the woman worked calmly and skillfully, the house filled with the sounds of groans and complaints. Jar Jar rolled on the floor, clutching his stomach with his ears drooping, while Obi-Wan tried to meditate through the discomfort. Padmé, despite her resilience, could barely stay upright.
Shmi gave them a kind look and gently instructed.
"Lie down for a bit. The remedy will be ready soon, and I'll bring it to you."
Padmé nodded gratefully.
"Thank you, Shmi…" she said weakly.
The kind woman offered a warm smile and guided her to Anakin's room, helping her settle onto his bed.
"Rest, dear" she said tenderly, covering her with a blanket "Soon, you'll feel better."
Padmé closed her eyes and exhaled slowly. Despite the discomfort, the warmth of the bed and Shmi's kindness made her feel comforted. In her mind, amidst the haze of her illness, there was only one thought: Anakin would be worried if he saw her like this.
The aforementioned boy was still at work, the stifling afternoon heat enveloping Watto's shop. Anakin, sitting at the counter, played with a nut between his fingers while waiting for a customer to walk in.
The sound of hurried footsteps snapped him out of his daze, forcing him to turn immediately. His mind was still wandering when he came face to face with something he least expected to see.
A man stumbled inside. His clothes were dirty and torn, his face covered in sweat and dust. But what caught Anakin's attention the most were the bruises on his face and the sharp cut on his lip.
"Hey! Are you okay?" he asked worriedly, his voice filled with concern.
The man tried to straighten up but could barely lean on the counter.
"I just… need to sit for a moment."
Anakin quickly fetched an old stool and brought it over.
"What happened?" he asked, alarmed "Was it those thugs who attack people for crossing their territory without paying?"
The man let out a bitter laugh.
"I wish it were that… At least then, my masters would have believed me."
Anakin frowned.
"Then what happened? Did someone try to rob you?"
"They did rob me, kid… and that's not even the worst part."
The man took a deep breath, as if he needed to gather courage before continuing.
"Some criminals are attacking the slaves at the warehouses" he whispered "They take the goods and leave us empty-handed. But our masters… they don't believe us. They accuse us of being thieves, of selling the goods for ourselves, and they punish us..."
Anakin felt a knot in his stomach as the man clutched his ribs, as if still feeling the last blow he had received.
"They beat you" he said in a low voice.
The man nodded.
Anakin's heart pounded. It wasn't fair. None of this was fair.
"This place is awful... Masters and criminals do whatever they want, and the only ones who pay the price are the slaves" the boy muttered.
"It's our fate… It's terrible that there's no one here to bring justice, someone to help us in our most desperate moment."
Anakin listened with sadness, sharing his helplessness. He, too, wished for someone to rise up and protect the weak. But then he remembered...
His Jedi friend could do it.
He had arrived just when they needed him the most, and Anakin had no doubt that he would act without hesitation.
"Don't worry" he suddenly said, his voice burning with determination "I'll take care of everything."
The man looked at him, first in surprise, then with a mixture of disbelief and pity.
"You're a good kid, little one, but… how could you? You're just like me, a slave. And besides… a child."
Anakin held his gaze firmly.
"You can be sure we'll stop those criminals. They won't be a problem for our people anymore."
"You talk as if you're completely certain."
"I am… I have no doubt."
The man narrowed his eyes.
"I've heard of you, Anakin Skywalker" he murmured "They say you always find a way to solve other slaves' problems… That you help anyone in need without hesitation. Some even believe you have… special abilities."
Anakin shrugged.
"I'm no different from you… If I can make a difference, I'm sure you can too. And together… I know we'll achieve the impossible."
The man sighed.
"I don't know, kid. This is too big."
"It will be, as long as we believe it is… But if we have faith, even the problems that seem impossible will become easy to solve."
"You speak with wisdom far beyond your years… I'd almost say you already have a plan."
"I do… I just need someone I know to agree, and then everything will be easier than you think. You'll see."
"All right… but be careful who you share information with."
"Don't worry, the person I'm talking about is trustworthy. I assure you we can count on him."
The man nodded with effort, standing up with his aching body.
"I'll come back tomorrow at this same time to hear your plan… I hope by then you'll have your friend's answer."
"I promise you I will."
As the man left the shop, Anakin's mind was already elsewhere—on Obi-Wan. He had to do something. He was a Jedi.
Meanwhile, at the Skywalker home, once everyone had taken the remedy, relief didn't take long to set in. The discomfort gradually faded.
In Anakin's room, Padmé had fallen into a deep sleep, wrapped in the warmth of the blankets and the familiar scent of the small space. In the living room, Jar Jar had also surrendered to rest, emitting soft snores.
Obi-Wan, however, remained awake. With Jedi discipline, he had endured the discomfort without complaining too much, and now that his body was recovering, his mind was refocusing on more important matters.
He observed Shmi, who, with admirable serenity, was preparing dinner, organizing the few ingredients she had. Despite the hardships, the woman exuded a sense of peace that Obi-Wan found unusual in such a hostile place as Tatooine.
He approached her, noticing the worry reflected on her face. He didn't need words to understand the cause of her distress.
"Anakin is staying out late again?"
Shmi sighed wearily, not stopping her chopping.
"Yes, he's still being punished" she replied, her voice filled with resignation "I've told him many times that he needs to respect Watto, but he never listens to me."
Obi-Wan smiled knowingly.
"He's a great boy" he said "He must just feel trapped in this vast world."
Shmi slowly nodded.
"Being a slave is a terrible fate" she murmured.
Obi-Wan remained silent for a moment. His expression darkened before he said:
"The Jedi fought for the freedom of many planets for a long time… but I must admit that before their downfall, the Order ended up serving the Senate's interests more than the ideals it was founded upon."
Shmi paused for a moment and looked at him with a mix of curiosity and sadness.
"Anakin and many other children were fascinated by travelers' stories about the Jedi" she commented "They came to believe they were indestructible, but I see now that, sadly, they were mistaken."
"That's right" Obi-Wan admitted bitterly "The Jedi never saw the betrayal forming around them."
Shmi turned her gaze toward the window, where Tatooine's reddish sun was beginning to set.
"All the children loved hearing stories about the Jedi" she said with a faint smile "But, interestingly, only Anakin dreamed of one day becoming one of you."
Obi-Wan studied her carefully. There was more than mere nostalgia in her words. There was pride, there was faith… and perhaps, just perhaps, there was a hidden hope she didn't dare to name.
Obi-Wan offered a sincere smile.
"You should be very proud of your son" he said warmly "He gives without expecting anything in return."
Shmi returned his smile, her eyes filled with tenderness and pride.
"I am. Very much so" she admitted "He's a wonderful boy, a true gift from the heavens who knows nothing of greed. You could say he has…"
"Special abilities" Obi-Wan completed for her.
Shmi nodded slowly.
"He is special, no doubt about it. The truth is, thanks to his abilities, we ended up with a master who, all things considered, isn't so bad. If not for that, we might have fallen into the hands of a Hutt… or someone worse."
Obi-Wan caught the slight tremor in her voice. He knew the fate of slaves on Tatooine was cruel, and that Anakin and his mother could have suffered a far darker fate.
"Watto was always interested in Anakin" Shmi continued "In his incredible talent for mechanics, in the way he understands circuits and machines as if they were an extension of his own mind. That's why he participated in Gardulla's bet… and ended up winning us both."
Obi-Wan observed her carefully.
"I imagine you're also noticed that Anakin senses things before they happen."
Shmi considered his words before responding.
"He has amazing reflexes, but if he's nervous, scared, or exhausted, those abilities you speak of don't manifest. That's why he was beaten the other night. Under normal circumstances, they wouldn't have been able to lay a finger on him. When he's calm… it's impressive how fast he can react."
Obi-Wan nodded.
"That is a characteristic trait of a Jedi. But without proper training, it's natural that he has no control over his abilities."
Shmi sighed wistfully.
"There's no doubt he deserves better than the life of a slave."
Obi-Wan crossed his arms, thoughtful.
"If he had been born within the Republic, he would have been identified as Force-sensitive and taken to the Jedi Temple."
Shmi looked at him gravely.
"And he would be dead now, like all the other Jedi."
The comment made her shudder. Obi-Wan averted his gaze, feeling the weight of those words, an irrefutable truth.
"The Force protected him" he finally said "It kept him from sharing the terrible fate of all my fellow Jedi."
Shmi remained silent for a moment. Her gaze drifted toward the small lamp that illuminated the room with a warm, flickering glow.
"I don't know what you mean by the Force" she murmured "But his birth was… unusual. I don't know if there's any record of something like this happening before, or if this was the first case. But what I do know is that it wasn't normal."
Obi-Wan felt his heart pounding in his chest.
"The Force is unusually strong in him, more than in any other being I have ever encountered" he said in a low voice, almost reverently "That intrigues me greatly."
And, after a brief silence, he asked the question lingering in his mind.
"Who was his father?"
Shmi lowered her gaze, hesitant. She had never spoken of this matter to anyone other than her son. To those who asked, she always said her husband had died in the Krayn'kar mines, the forced labor pits where slaves disappeared and never returned. But Obi-Wan was not just anyone. He was a Jedi Knight. If there was someone who might understand what had happened, perhaps it was him.
She took a deep breath before answering.
"He had no father" she finally said "I carried him in my womb. I gave birth to him. I raised him. But I never knew how it happened."
Obi-Wan felt a chill run down his spine. His mind instantly recalled a distant memory, back when he was a young padawan of sixteen, hearing his master's words for the first time:
FLASHBACK
The twilight bathed the Jedi Temple gardens in golden and crimson hues. Obi-Wan, still adjusting to the presence of his new master, walked alongside Qui-Gon Jinn down a path lined with soft-leaved trees, their shadows stretching long over the stone pavement.
"Master, there's something that intrigues me" the young padawan said after a moment of hesitation.
Qui-Gon offered a slight smile and nodded, encouraging him to continue.
"Earlier, in the meeting with the Council, you mentioned something… a prophecy about a Chosen One who will bring balance to the Force."
The Jedi Master paused for a moment, as if deciding how to approach the topic. Then, he resumed his pace, slower this time.
"Yes, Obi-Wan" he replied calmly "It is an ancient prophecy, one that few speak of openly."
Obi-Wan frowned. Though he had spent years in the Temple, he had never heard of such a thing.
"Why isn't it taught?"
"Because many doubt its truth" Qui-Gon explained patiently "Or perhaps because they fear it. But I believe in it, Obi-Wan. The Force does not leave questions unanswered, and if the prophecy has been whispered throughout time, it is because its fulfillment is near."
Obi-Wan pondered those words. From childhood, he had been taught not to cling to uncertain beliefs, to see the Force as a river in constant flow, not as something predetermined.
"What exactly does this prophecy say?"
Without stopping, Qui-Gon recited in a deep voice:
"A Chosen One shall come, born of the Force, and through him, balance shall be restored to the Force."
The padawan felt a shiver run down his spine. It was not a long prophecy, nor filled with mysteries, but it carried an immense weight in its words.
"Born of the Force?" Obi-Wan repeated quietly "Does that mean he won't have parents?"
"Perhaps" Qui-Gon responded, thoughtful "Or perhaps it means the Force will guide his destiny in ways we cannot yet understand."
"And do you truly believe this Chosen One will come?" the padawan asked, skeptical but genuinely curious.
Qui-Gon's eyes shone with certainty.
"I don't just believe it, I know it. Somewhere in the galaxy, the Force is paving the way for him. When the time comes, he will change everything."
Obi-Wan lowered his gaze, thoughtful. His master spoke with such conviction that it was impossible not to feel the spark of his faith.
"Balance in the Force…" he murmured "Does that mean it is unbalanced now?"
Qui-Gon nodded solemnly.
"It is. And the path to balance may be difficult, Obi-Wan. Some will see it as a threat. Others will reject it. But the Chosen One, when he comes, will do what must be done."
Obi-Wan felt another shiver. He wasn't sure if he could believe as strongly as his master… but if Qui-Gon had such unwavering faith, then he, too, would remain watchful.
"And restoring balance… does that mean destroying the Sith?"
Qui-Gon stopped for the first time and looked at his apprentice with interest.
"That is the most common interpretation, but the Force is not so simple, Obi-Wan. Balance is not merely the absence of darkness. It is a state in which the Force flows in harmony, untainted and free from ambition."
Obi-Wan nodded slowly.
"But if balance has not yet come… it means the Force is in danger."
"It is" Qui-Gon affirmed gravely "And that is why we must remain vigilant. Perhaps the Chosen One has not yet been born… or perhaps his time is closer than we imagine."
Obi-Wan wasn't sure what to think. But his master's faith was unwavering, and though he could not say he believed in the prophecy with the same certainty… he did believe in Qui-Gon.
He didn't fully understand yet, but in that moment, he made a silent decision: if the Chosen One arrived in his time, he would be there to witness it. And for now, that was enough.
END OF FLASHBACK
And now, here he was, on a planet forgotten by the galaxy, an arid and dusty corner where life clung to existence with tooth and nail. A place where no one would expect to find anything of great significance… and yet, amidst the sand and slavery, there was a kind-hearted boy, born without a father, with a connection to the Force so intense that it defied all logic.
The memory of his promise resurfaced powerfully in his mind. He had sworn it to his master: if he ever found the Chosen One, he would train him and ensure his protection. But the promise weighed on him like an invisible chain.
What if he was wrong?
He could not deny that Anakin's birth was a mystery. His very existence defied comprehension, and his connection to the Force was stronger than any he had ever felt before. But was that enough to claim he was the Chosen One? The prophecy spoke of one who would bring balance to the Force… but what did that truly mean?
Obi-Wan felt doubt swirl inside him like a sandstorm, harsh and relentless. What if the prophecy had been misinterpreted? What if, instead of being the key to restoring balance, training Anakin only meant dragging him into an uncertain fate, marked by the same danger and persecution that now weighed upon him?
A sigh escaped his lips as he returned to reality. Shmi had left him alone, giving him space to meditate, while she continued preparing dinner. The simplicity of that home contrasted with the depth of the thoughts that assailed him.
It was then that he noticed the sky beginning to darken. Shadows stretched over the sand, and the night air brought a slight drop in temperature. Aware that the boy had not yet returned, he stood up and approached his hostess.
"I'll go fetch Anakin, so he doesn't have to return alone" he said calmly.
Shmi offered him a grateful smile, though there was a hint of concern in her eyes.
"I'd appreciate that very much, Obi-Wan. You see, things have been dangerous around here lately… and he's not used to being out at night, much less alone" Shmi sighed, with that silent worry of a mother who knows her child is brave but also vulnerable.
Obi-Wan nodded serenely.
"It's no trouble, I do it gladly" he replied firmly.
It wasn't just a matter of accompanying Anakin home but of ensuring that nothing happened to him along the way. Somehow, he felt that protecting this boy was part of his duty… though he still wasn't sure what that truly meant.
And with that, he stepped out into the Tatooine night, unaware that fate was already in motion and that each step brought him closer to a decision that would change the galaxy forever.
Once Padmé felt better, she began to curiously explore Anakin's room. Her eyes scanned every corner, noting how each object seemed to speak of his passion for mechanics and his dream of becoming a pilot. There were neatly organized tools, spare parts scattered across an improvised workbench, and even half-built droids in a corner.
It was a space that reflected his restless and brilliant mind, his innate talent for building and repairing. Every little detail spoke of a boy who, despite the difficult circumstances in which he lived, never stopped dreaming of a future among the stars.
However, something immediately caught her attention: there was no sign of study books, notebooks, or any indication that her young host was receiving a formal education.
She frowned.
"Where is his academic training?"
It was evident that Anakin was bright, full of curiosity and creativity, but…
"Doesn't anyone teach him history, mathematics, science?"
In her world, education was essential, a basic right. But here, in this forgotten corner of the galaxy, it seemed like an unattainable luxury.
The thought unsettled her. A child like him should have access to much more than just tools and engines.
Then, an idea crossed her mind, at first just a simple possibility, but soon it became something firm and exciting. Maybe… maybe she could teach him.
Her heart pounded at the thought. Not just because it seemed fair, but because… it meant she would spend more time with him.
Time alone.
The thought took her by surprise. A slight warmth rose up her neck.
Why did the idea of sharing moments with Anakin excite her so much? He was just a child… right? And yet, the way he looked at her, with those eyes full of admiration and devotion, made her feel something difficult to describe.
Perhaps it was just a simple connection… or perhaps it was something more.
Meanwhile, as the night stretched its veil over the city, Obi-Wan arrived at the shop just as Anakin was preparing to close.
The boy looked up and gave him a grin, a mix of surprise and amusement in his expression.
"Obi-Wan, you came for me! How kind of you!"
The Jedi raised an eyebrow at the tone of his voice. There was something more than gratitude in those words.
"I sense more anxiety in your voice than simple appreciation for my kind gesture. What are you up to?"
Anakin placed a hand on his chest in a theatrical gesture of feigned offense.
"Up to something? Me? Wow, Obi-Wan, what sharp intuition. Did you discover that thanks to the Force?"
Obi-Wan wasn't fooled by his lighthearted tone. Despite barely knowing him, there was something in the way Anakin acted that was revealing. His tendency to resort to jokes to divert attention wasn't just simple childhood mischief, it was a clear sign that he had something in mind.
"No, your actions gave you away long before the Force could tell me anything. So, tell me, what are you planning?"
Anakin flashed a mysterious smile and finished locking the shop door.
"Let's just say I have an interesting proposal for you, but this isn't the right time or place to reveal it. We'd better wait until we get home. This place might not be entirely safe for what I want to tell you."
Obi-Wan sighed, a mix of resignation and amusement, adjusting his cloak before beginning to walk alongside the boy through the streets.
"A Jedi must lead by example in practicing patience" he said in a philosophical tone "But I'm starting to suspect that, with you, putting that into practice will be the hardest challenge I've ever faced in my life."
Anakin let out a chuckle as they walked, his eyes shining with excitement.
"Then consider this me helping you train your patience."
Obi-Wan exhaled in resignation, casting Anakin a sidelong glance and offering a barely perceptible smile. And to think he hadn't even decided to train him yet… and he was already becoming a real headache. He couldn't help but wonder what it would be like if he truly took on the responsibility of his Jedi training.
Something told him his life was about to become far more complicated than he had ever imagined.
Moments later, both of them were walking through the quiet streets of Mos Espa, heading home under the starlight. The boy talked nonstop, commenting on everything he had seen and experienced that day. For him, it was a completely new feeling to walk like this, accompanied by someone older who wasn't his mother. He couldn't help but wonder if this was what it would feel like to walk beside a father… an experience he had never known.
But even though the conversation flowed easily, there was a question lingering in his mind. One that unsettled him more than he wanted to admit.
"What if Obi-Wan feels something special for Padmé?"
He didn't want to think about it too much, but the idea gnawed at him. And if there was one thing Anakin Skywalker didn't know how to do, it was letting a doubt go unanswered.
"Hey, Obi-Wan, can I ask you some personal questions?" he asked with feigned innocence, as if he weren't about to pry into something that was eating him up inside.
The young Jedi raised an eyebrow, looking at him with curiosity.
"Alright, but I can't guarantee I'll answer them all. It depends on what you ask."
Anakin nodded, and after a few seconds of silence, he shot his first question:
"I just want to know… how long have you and Padmé known each other?"
"Only a few days" Obi-Wan answered without hesitation "Protecting her was the last mission assigned to me by the Jedi Council, and now that she's had to flee her world, I must look after her."
Anakin nodded slowly, but his real concern was still unresolved. Gathering his courage, he asked the question that truly mattered to him:
"But… don't you feel something important for her?"
"Of course I do."
Anakin froze. His heart clenched instantly, but before he could fully process the response, Obi-Wan continued:
"I care about her, and I will make sure she's always safe."
The boy exhaled the breath he had been holding, but he still wasn't satisfied.
"Yeah, but… don't you feel anything special for her?"
Obi-Wan gave him an inquisitive look.
"Special in what sense?"
Anakin looked away. He usually didn't feel nervous, but at that moment, he couldn't help it.
"I mean… don't you like her?"
Obi-Wan let out a small chuckle before shaking his head.
"No, Anakin. I don't have that kind of affection for her."
Relief washed over him like a wave. He discreetly sighed and smiled to himself, but his peace didn't last long, because Obi-Wan looked at him with a hint of mischief and said:
"Now it's my turn to ask you a personal question."
Anakin felt a jolt of alarm run down his spine like lightning. His instinct was to react immediately, shielding himself with the only tool he had: lying.
"I don't like her either" he blurted out too quickly, too nervous to hide it completely "I don't feel anything special for her."
His words hung in the air, but not even he fully believed them.
Because the truth was different.
He did feel something for Padmé, something that filled him with a warm, thrilling emotion every time he was near her. He couldn't quite name it, didn't fully understand why his heart raced when she smiled at him or why his eyes instinctively sought her out in every room. He only knew that Padmé was special.
It was a feeling unlike anything he had ever experienced. It wasn't like the affection he had for his mother or the admiration he felt for Obi-Wan. It was something deeper, more unknown… and, at the same time, uncontrollable.
But that had to remain a secret.
At his response, Obi-Wan narrowed his eyes, as if analyzing his reaction.
"That's not what I was going to ask."
Anakin blinked, surprised.
"Then what?"
The young Jedi remained silent for a moment before asking in a calm voice:
"Your mother has told you the truth about your father, hasn't she?"
Anakin's expression darkened immediately. He lowered his gaze, feeling a knot form in his stomach. It wasn't a topic he liked to discuss.
"Yes…" he murmured, shifting uncomfortably.
"Do you believe her?"
Anakin bit his lip. His thoughts had always been divided on the matter.
"I know I should… She's my mother, after all" he said quietly "But I can't shake the idea that I do have a father. Part of me thinks he's somewhere in this vast galaxy and that one day he'll come back to reunite with us… with his family."
He paused, feeling the weight of his own words.
"But another part of me… tells me my mother is telling the truth. That I really don't have a father."
He lifted his gaze, meeting Obi-Wan's calm eyes.
"The truth is something very difficult to accept" he whispered.
Obi-Wan held his gaze with a mixture of understanding and thoughtfulness. He didn't respond right away, allowing the boy to process his own feelings. And though he didn't have the answer Anakin longed for, he did have something to offer him:
"Whatever fate has in store for you, Anakin… the Force will always be with you. Perhaps one day, you'll find the answers you seek."
Anakin nodded slowly, feeling that even though his doubt wasn't resolved, at least he wasn't alone in his uncertainty.
Moments later, Obi-Wan and Anakin arrived at the humble yet cozy Skywalker home. The dim interior lighting contrasted with the growing darkness of the desert outside, giving the home a warmth that, for an instant, made Obi-Wan feel out of place. He wasn't used to this kind of familial environment.
Shmi, upon seeing her son return safe and sound, couldn't hide the relief on her face.
"I'm so happy to see you, Ani" she said with a fond smile as she wrapped him in a tight embrace.
Anakin eagerly melted into the hug, savoring the security only his mother could provide.
"Obi-Wan, thank you so much for bringing him back" Shmi said, directing a grateful look at the Jedi.
"It was no trouble at all" he replied with a small nod.
Shmi nodded before turning her attention to the kitchen.
"Dinner will be ready in a few moments. In the meantime, feel free to relax and chat."
Anakin, excited by the opportunity, immediately turned to Obi-Wan. Until now, he had seen him as a mysterious warrior with incredible skills, but he knew little about him or the enigmatic Jedi Order.
"Obi-Wan, do you think you could ever return to the temple you mentioned?" he suddenly asked, curiosity shining in his eyes.
Obi-Wan let out a soft sigh.
"I don't know if that's possible, Anakin. The temple, if it still stands, must be under strict surveillance. If I try to approach, they would surely discover me before I even set foot inside its doors."
Anakin frowned. The idea of such a sacred place becoming either a prison or ruins was difficult for him to accept.
"What was it like?" he insisted.
For a moment, Obi-Wan seemed to travel back in time. His features softened, and his gaze drifted into the horizon.
"The Jedi Temple..." he began in a low voice, as if evoking a distant, cherished memory. "It was more than a building, more than just a structure. It was a home, a sanctuary. Its walls seemed to be imbued with the very energy of the Force, as if every stone held centuries of knowledge and discipline. From the moment you stepped inside, you could feel it, the calm, the harmony... and the weight of entire generations of Jedi who had walked its halls before us."
Anakin listened intently, almost feeling the presence of that place through his friend's words.
"Its halls were vast and majestic, with towering columns and endless corridors that echoed with the footsteps of Padawans and Masters. In the Grand Assembly Hall, the Jedi Council would gather, the wisest of our Order. There, they made decisions that affected the entire galaxy, but they also guided Jedi on their path. It was a solemn place, but not an intimidating one… at least, not for those willing to learn."
Obi-Wan paused before continuing, as if in his mind he were walking through those halls once again.
"And then there was the Hall of Millennia, where Jedi history was recorded, from our very beginnings to the most recent times. There were holocrons, ancient texts, knowledge gathered from every corner of the galaxy. But you know… what truly made the temple special wasn't its architecture or its vast knowledge, it was the people who lived there. Masters, Padawans, guardians… each of them with their own story, their own unique connection to the Force."
Anakin noticed a subtle shift in Obi-Wan's voice. There was nostalgia, yes, but also a trace of sorrow.
"I met great Masters in that place," Obi-Wan continued, a faint, melancholic smile appearing on his lips. "Mace Windu, the strictest and most formidable, yet also the most just. Ki-Adi-Mundi, with his analytical mind and unwavering wisdom. Plo Koon, whose kindness and sense of honor were unshakable. Grand Master Yoda, the wisest of them all. And my own Master, Qui-Gon Jinn… he was different. He didn't blindly follow the rules but trusted in the Force in a way unlike any other. He taught me that being a Jedi wasn't just about following a code, it was about understanding it and finding balance within oneself."
Obi-Wan exhaled slowly, returning to the present.
"But all of that is gone" he said in a low voice "The Order was destroyed. And what was once a place of peace and wisdom… is now only a memory."
Anakin felt a lump in his throat. He had never seen the Jedi Temple, but through Obi-Wan's words, he could almost picture it. And deep in his heart, an idea began to take shape.
"Maybe not everything is lost" he said quietly, his gaze fixed on the horizon.
Obi-Wan glanced at him from the corner of his eye but didn't respond. Perhaps because, deep down, he wanted to believe Anakin was right.
"Do you think that if I had been taken to the Jedi Temple, you and I would have met? Would we be friends like we are now?" Anakin asked with genuine curiosity, looking at his new Jedi friend from the side.
Obi-Wan considered the question before answering.
"It's possible. If you had been accepted into the Order as a child, you would have trained alongside other initiates and eventually become a Padawan under a Jedi Master. Maybe we would have crossed paths in the halls or in the training rooms… but there's something you should know."
"What?"
Obi-Wan sighed.
"The Jedi follow a very strict code. Friendship among us is not like it is elsewhere. We respect each other, we help each other, and we care for one another, but we must not form bonds that are too strong. A Jedi must remain impartial and unattached."
Obi-Wan felt a slight weight in his chest as he noticed Anakin's expression. The boy was genuinely hurt. Until now, he had likely assumed Obi-Wan was his friend—someone he could trust, someone who perhaps was beginning to fill the void of a father figure he had never had. And now, with a single sentence, he had shattered that illusion.
"So, we're not friends? You're not friends with Padmé, or Jar Jar? You don't see us the way we see you?"
Anakin's tone carried a hint of disappointment, almost as if he were pleading for a different answer.
"It's complicated, Anakin."
The boy furrowed his brow and crossed his arms, clearly upset.
"Then simplify things and tell me, how do you see us? If we're not your friends, what are we to you?"
Obi-Wan sighed, trying to organize his thoughts. How could he explain something he himself still struggled to understand? He had spent years in the temple, learning that emotional bonds could be dangerous, that attachment led to suffering and, ultimately, to the dark side. But in this short time, surrounded by such warm and affectionate people, he was beginning to realize how difficult it was to live by that teaching outside the temple walls.
"Attachments are forbidden for Jedi" he explained cautiously "It's something I've learned over the years... it's not something I can change overnight."
Anakin looked away, his lips pressed into a frustrated line.
"Then I guess I wouldn't have wanted to live in a temple with cold, heartless people" he muttered bitterly "The only good thing is that Mom would have had a better place to live."
Obi-Wan felt a sharp pang in his conscience.
Anakin stopped abruptly and looked at him seriously.
"Because Mom would have lived in the temple with me, right?" he asked, a spark of hope in his voice "Like all the Jedi's parents."
Obi-Wan looked at him sadly, realizing Anakin still didn't understand the true nature of the Jedi Order. His chest tightened.
"Jedi don't live with their parents. When a child is detected as Force-sensitive, they are given to the Order. They grow up and are trained in the temple, while their parents remain on their home planet. And they never see each other again."
Anakin felt a chill run down his spine.
"That sounds... horrible."
Obi-Wan looked at him calmly, but without denying it.
"So Jedi can't have family? Not parents? Not... wives... children?" Anakin insisted, frowning.
"That's right" Obi-Wan answered calmly "A Jedi renounces all of that to serve the Force with all their being."
Anakin pressed his lips together, uncomfortable with the idea. It seemed unnatural to him.
"So... you never saw your parents again after the Jedi found you?" he asked.
"Correct" Obi-Wan replied in a neutral tone "I know I'm from the planet Stewjon and that I come from the Kenobi family, but I know nothing about them. I don't even remember them."
Anakin felt a pang of sadness. He looked at his friend's face and wondered if it truly didn't matter to Obi-Wan that he had lost that bond.
"But... if they found out what happened with the Jedi, they must think you're dead" he said, his tone growing more serious "They must be so sad... wouldn't you want to take that sadness away from them?"
Obi-Wan sighed, understanding Anakin's feelings, but his response was firm.
"Since they gave me to the Order, they knew the life of a Jedi is dangerous. They accepted that our lives are always at risk because they saw it as the will of the Force. And now, if they're still alive, they're probably accepting what happened."
Anakin furrowed his brow even more.
"You're not going to take them out of their mistake? Don't you want to give them hope?"
"I don't know them, Anakin" Obi-Wan replied with a hint of resignation in his voice "And besides, I can't send any signals. Remember? I'm the last Jedi. There are many in the galaxy who want to make sure none of us remain."
The boy lowered his gaze, gently kicking the sand with his foot. The idea that someone could live without family, without bonds, without anyone to care about them, seemed unbearable to him.
"If I decided to be a Jedi... would I have to leave my mom?" he asked quietly, as if afraid of the answer.
Obi-Wan looked at him with patience and compassion.
"You don't choose it, Anakin. The Force chooses the Jedi. And the most important rule of the Order is that a Jedi must not form attachments to anyone... not even among ourselves."
Anakin felt a knot in his stomach. He looked at the sky beginning to shimmer with stars and thought of his mother, her warm smile, and her voice full of love. He couldn't imagine life without her.
"That's not right" he murmured to himself.
Obi-Wan didn't say anything. Not because he didn't have an answer, but because deep down, he knew Anakin would never accept that fate.
"So the Jedi aren't what I thought."
Anakin could be the long-awaited Chosen One of the prophecy in which Qui-Gon placed so much hope. However, his view of the Jedi pulls him farther away from that destiny. For him, the idea of living without bonds or affection is unthinkable, and his perception of the Order as a cold, distant society only strengthens his rejection of them.
Still, a doubt lingers in his heart: what if Obi-Wan, the last Jedi remaining, is the only hope for the slaves?
Thank you for continuing with me on this story!
I'd love to hear your thoughts, so don't hesitate to leave your comments.
See you in the next chapter!