Welcome to a new chapter of this story!

Before we dive into today's events, I want to thank you all for joining me on this journey.

A special thanks to those who have added this story to their favorites, you mean so much to me.

Thank you all for being here! I hope you enjoy this continuation, and as always, I would love to hear your thoughts.

In this chapter, both Anakin and Obi-Wan will discover that being a Jedi goes far beyond following strict rules. Anakin will learn that although the Order's laws may seem cold and rigid, the true essence of a Jedi is to serve those in need, even when the rules suggest otherwise.

Obi-Wan, in turn, will also receive a valuable lesson: there is always a way to help, even in situations where it seems like nothing can be done. Through Anakin's perspective, he will realize that a Jedi does not only teach but also learns from their apprentice.

Because even though they are not yet officially Master and Padawan, the bond between them is already forming, along with the opportunity to grow and challenge established teachings.

I hope you enjoy this chapter, and don't forget to leave your comments, I love reading them!

STARS DESTINIES - VOLUME 1

THE AWAKENING OF A HERO - CHAPTER 6

Anakin and Obi-Wan's thoughts floated in the air like silent echoes, both lost in their reflections about the Jedi Order and its strict prohibitions. For Obi-Wan, all of it was an unshakable pillar, a frame of reference as natural as the air he breathed.

For Anakin, however, it was unfamiliar territory, a world of rules and codes he still didn't fully understand. And yet, both meditated in silence, each in their own way, but with the same stillness expected of a Jedi. Even though Anakin was not one… not yet.

But their thoughts were abruptly interrupted when Shmi's voice pulled them back to reality.

"Dinner is ready" she announced warmly.

Jar Jar, with his usual dramatic flair, immediately complained:

"Meesa hopes it won't make us sick!"

"Sick?" Anakin asked curiously, not understanding what he meant "I think the problem wasn't the quality, but the quantity."

"Don't tease me, you" Jar Jar replied, offended "For your information, we all ate the same amount. Even Padmé, so skinny as she looks, actually eats a lot."

Jar Jar's words made the queen blush instantly. She couldn't deny that hunger had been stronger than her composure and that she had eaten without much thought. But that didn't mean she liked having it pointed out, especially not in front of Anakin.

"Really?" the boy asked, raising an amused eyebrow at her.

"Don't listen to him, Ani" Padmé intervened quickly, trying to downplay the comment "You know how he is, he always exaggerates."

"Actually, I just met him" Anakin shrugged "But something tells me he's not lying."

Padmé shot Jar Jar a piercing glare, but he, oblivious to her indignation, simply smiled in satisfaction.

"But that doesn't make you any less pretty, Padmé" Anakin added naturally.

The boy gave her one of those dreamy looks he hadn't stopped giving her since they met. Padmé felt the warmth in her face intensify. However, before she could respond, Anakin seemed to remember something important and immediately turned his attention to Obi-Wan.

"Obi-Wan, we need a plan, urgently. You're a Jedi, I bet you're good at that."

The young Jedi, who was still processing the previous conversation, raised a cautious eyebrow.

"A plan for what exactly?"

"There's a terrible situation with the slaves" Anakin explained seriously "They need us. Well, they need you. We have to do something… Well, you have to do something about it."

"Something like what?"

"Listen…"

Anakin then revealed his encounter with the beaten slave, passionately describing the injustice he had seen reflected in his eyes. He spoke of helplessness, of pain, of the urgent need to do something to change that reality.

"That's terrible" Shmi murmured sadly.

"Those poor people are in such a difficult situation" Padmé said, frowning.

"And I told him I would take care of everything" Anakin continued with determination "Because… well, I assumed that once I told you about it, you'd do something about it."

A heavy silence fell over the room before Obi-Wan responded firmly:

"You assumed wrong."

Anakin blinked, surprised.

"What did you say?"

"That you shouldn't have made promises on my behalf."

"But you're a Jedi" Anakin insisted "Aren't you going to do anything?"

Obi-Wan sighed, taking a moment before responding.

"Believe me, I wish I could" he said seriously "But I remind you that no one should know my Jedi status. And without that, I have no authority to intervene. If I did, nothing guarantees that I would truly be helping. In fact, I might make things worse."

Anakin opened his mouth to protest, but the conviction in Obi-Wan's eyes stopped him. For the first time, he felt the gap between what he believed was right and what reality allowed. And he didn't like it one bit.

"I thought you'd agree without hesitation."

Obi-Wan exhaled softly, as if carefully considering his response.

"Anakin, believe me, I'm truly sorry."

Anakin frowned. He hadn't expected that response. He had expected something like, 'We'll figure it out' or 'Don't worry, we'll find a way.' But not this. Not an empty apology, without promises or solutions.

"No" disappointment tinged his voice as he stood abruptly "I'm the one who's sorry. Sorry for expecting more from you."

Shmi called to him gently, concerned by the bitterness in his tone. But Anakin didn't listen, or if he did, he chose to ignore her. He walked firmly to his mother's room, his room for the time being, and shut the door harder than necessary.

An uncomfortable silence hung over the table.

"Don't worry, I'll talk to him" Padmé's voice finally broke the tension. Her gaze remained fixed on the door where the boy had disappeared "Maybe I can calm him down."

She stood up and followed after him, leaving behind the murmurs of the unfinished conversation.

"Does that mean Ani and Padmé aren't going to finish dinner?" Jar Jar blurted out in his clumsy voice "Can meesa eat what they left?"

No one answered him.

In his room, Anakin was sitting on the bed, running a small device over his arm. Then over his torso. Then over his legs. Over and over again. His expression was one of deep concentration, but also frustration.

Padmé carefully opened the door.

"What are you doing, Ani?"

He didn't answer. He didn't even look at her. It was strange. Ever since she had known him, Anakin always seemed to be aware of her, searching for any excuse to capture her attention, to make her smile. But now, his gaze was fixed on the device in his hand.

Suddenly, with a frustrated growl, he threw it against the wall. The impact caused some pieces to break off and fall to the floor with a metallic sound.

"There's nothing!" he exclaimed, clenching his fists "This thing is useless!"

Padmé blinked in confusion and stepped closer, gently picking up the broken device.

"Ani, what's wrong? Why are you so upset?" Her voice was soft, careful "It's not just because Obi-Wan can't do anything, is it? It's something else."

Then he looked at her, and his blue eyes, usually bright and full of hope, were dark with restrained anger. There was something broken in his gaze, something that made him look older than he really was.

Padmé felt her heart clench.

"You wouldn't understand" Anakin's voice was hard, almost cutting "You're a queen, a rich girl."

The comment hurt more than she wanted to admit. Was that what he thought of her? That she was just a privileged child, incapable of understanding the suffering of others?

But then she remembered the way he always looked at her. The sweetness in his voice when he spoke to her. The devotion in his eyes every time he addressed her. And she understood that Anakin didn't say it because he truly believed it. He said it because he was hurting.

She sat down beside him, not looking directly at him, but positioning herself behind him.

"Maybe I was a queen, Ani" her voice was calm but firm "But that doesn't mean I don't understand pain and injustice. I do… Maybe not the way you do, because, as you said, I was born in a privileged place."

Anakin lowered his head, his jaw tightening.

"I didn't mean that" he whispered "I'm sorry, please."

The anger had vanished from his voice. Now only exhaustion remained. And sadness.

Padmé gave a small smile and placed the broken device on the bed.

"Come on, tell me the truth" she leaned in slightly to see him better "What were you looking for with this?"

Anakin lowered his gaze, hesitating. As if what he was about to say weighed too heavily on him.

"All slaves have an implanted chip that prevents us from escaping our masters. If we cross the limits they impose, the chip activates and… it makes us explode."

Padmé felt a chill run down her spine.

"That's horrible."

Her heart clenched with a mix of helplessness and rage.

Anakin just shrugged.

"That's the reality of slaves."

But in truth, to him, it wasn't just a fact. It was his life. His mother had one of those chips. So did he. And every day they spent on Tatooine, their existence depended on the whim of a cruel master who would never hesitate to activate it if he wished.

Padmé felt a lump in her throat as she understood what that meant.

"Don't tell me you were trying to detonate it" her voice came out more alarmed than she intended.

"What? No, of course not!" Anakin quickly shook his head "It's just that… I don't know where mine is. Or my mom's. I built that useless thing to detect them and, maybe, someday remove them."

He paused and lowered his gaze, clenching his fists.

"You have no idea what it feels like, Padmé" his voice trembled with suppressed rage "Knowing that your life doesn't belong to you. That at any moment, someone who hates you and sees you as nothing more than an object can decide you're no longer useful."

Padmé felt her eyes burn.

"I'm sure it will work, Ani. Maybe it just needs some adjustments."

He let out a bitter laugh.

"It doesn't work. It's useless."

His words echoed his own frustration, the despair he was fighting against. And at that moment, Padmé realized something else: Anakin wasn't afraid for his own life. He was afraid for his mother's.

There was so much desperation in his voice that Padmé felt the urge to hug him. But instead, she spoke gently.

"Ani…"

He shook his head, as if rejecting her comfort.

"That's why I thought Obi-Wan would help me. Because he's a Jedi. And Jedi help people, don't they? Isn't that their duty?"

Padmé sighed.

"Sometimes it's not that simple."

But Anakin didn't seem satisfied with that answer.

"Why not? If they can do it, if they have the power, why don't they?"

She didn't have an answer for that. But what she did know was that, even though Anakin was still a child, he already had the heart of a hero. A heart that would never stop fighting against what he considered unjust.

And at that moment, Padmé understood that the boy's anger wasn't about what Obi-Wan had told him. It was because, for the first time in his life, he was facing the idea that maybe… no one was coming to save them.

Silent tears began to roll down Anakin's cheeks, falling one after another as he clenched his fists in helplessness. His small body trembled under the weight of emotions too big for his young age.

Padmé couldn't hold back any longer. She leaned toward him and wrapped him in a warm embrace, a silent refuge amid his pain. She didn't say anything, didn't try to soothe him with empty words. She just held him tightly, conveying her understanding, her empathy… her love.

For a long while, they remained like that, in a bubble removed from the world. Padmé's hand moved gently over Anakin's back in a comforting rhythm, as if trying to erase the weight of his suffering with every touch. Slowly, the boy's ragged breathing steadied, giving way to deeper, calmer inhales until it finally stabilized. A deep sigh escaped his lips, and then Padmé knew he had fallen asleep.

With extreme care, she settled him on the bed and covered him with one of the worn blankets, making sure he was warm and protected. Her fingers brushed against his tousled hair before she leaned in and placed a tender kiss on his forehead.

They could never have imagined that, ten years later, fate would bring them back to such a similar scene… but with a completely different Anakin. He was no longer a child broken by injustice, dreaming of a better world, but a man shattered by tragedy and anger.

Once again, he would seek refuge in Padmé's arms, but this time he wouldn't be a child searching for hope, he would be a warrior crushed by tragedy. His tears would no longer be just of helplessness but of fury, of guilt, and of a pain so immense it seemed impossible to soothe.

And, just like before, Padmé wouldn't let go. She would stay with him. But this time, her embrace wouldn't be guided by the compassion of a noble young girl wanting to help an innocent child. It would be that of a woman deeply in love, willing to hold him no matter the consequences.

A love like hers didn't abide by rules or prohibitions; it existed beyond reason, unwavering and unbreakable.

She would cradle his face in her hands, caressing him tenderly, whispering words he might not be able to hear in his torment but that would stay with him, engraved in his soul, an anchor amidst the chaos. And, just like now, she would stay with him, not leaving until his tears ceased, until his breathing steadied, until the weight of his suffering became light enough to allow him to rest… if only for a moment.

Because no matter how much the universe around them changed, one truth remained unshaken: whenever Anakin Skywalker fell, Padmé Amidala would always be there to catch him.

Ignoring what fate had in store for them, Padmé gazed at Anakin's serene face as he slept. Despite all the anguish and helplessness she had felt just minutes ago, he now looked like a peaceful child, lost in a deep and restful sleep. But what Padmé did not know was that, in those dreams, she had been present long before they ever met, as if her existence had been engraved in Anakin's heart since forever. Before he had even laid eyes on her, he had already longed for her, imagined her, as if she were the reflection of everything his soul had desperately desired in the midst of his life as a slave.

Padmé sighed and carefully stood up, making sure not to wake him. Before leaving, she cast one last glance at him, wondering how it was possible for someone so young to carry so many broken dreams and yet still possess such a strong spirit.

As she opened the door to the room, she found Shmi waiting for her in silence.

"He has fallen asleep" she informed her with a faint smile "He's much calmer now."

Shmi's eyes reflected immense gratitude.

"Thank you so much, dear" she said sweetly "My Ani can be quite stubborn sometimes, that's his biggest flaw… but he's a great boy."

"He is" Padmé replied with conviction "It's just that he has to deal with so many injustices."

"It's not easy being a slave" Shmi said with a hint of sadness "I was just telling Obi-Wan that all labor will be suspended tomorrow. We'll stay home the whole day."

"What happened?" Padmé asked curiously.

"Strong sandstorms are approaching" Shmi explained "They're extremely dangerous, so everything is shut down to avoid risks. Though, of course, the real reason isn't to protect the slaves but to preserve their masters' property. If it were up to them, they'd send us out anyway."

Padmé's face hardened with displeasure.

"Those people… they're so selfish, so arrogant. I hope they pay someday for thinking they're superior."

Shmi sighed with resignation.

"Unfortunately, on this planet, that's impossible."

There was no bitterness in her voice, only the certainty of someone who had lived too long under the shadow of injustice.

Padmé lowered her gaze, feeling a lump in her throat. How was it possible that, in some corner of the galaxy, human lives were treated as mere property?

With a heavy heart, she returned to the main room, where Obi-Wan and Jar Jar were waiting for her. The Jedi remained silent, his eyes closed, immersed in deep meditation. Beside him, the Gungan finished his dinner with evident satisfaction, unaware of the weight in the air.

Padmé stood right in front of Obi-Wan, watching him closely as he remained still, lost in his meditation. She barely knew him, but she had already begun to familiarize herself with his expressions, with the way his face barely changed and yet conveyed more than he intended. She knew Anakin's words had affected him, had made him reflect on the cruel reality of the slaves on Tatooine. She also understood that, deep down, he wanted to do something about it. But at the same time, she was aware of his concern: they were on a hostile planet, trapped in a precarious situation, with no resources and with the mission of protecting her, the Queen of Naboo.

Even so, she couldn't help but feel frustrated with him. Frustrated because he seemed more willing to prioritize the safety of their group over the lives of those who were most vulnerable. Didn't he realize that his inaction could put Anakin in danger? Remembering the boy's determined expression, his voice filled with pain as he spoke of his condition, Padmé felt her chest tighten. Anakin was not just any child. He had already endured too much, and the most concerning thing was that he would not resign himself to his fate as his mother had. He would do something. She knew it.

Her Ani…

Padmé felt her own mind pause for a moment. Hers?

Obi-Wan slowly opened his eyes, as if he had heard her thoughts. Seeing her standing before him, her brow furrowed and frustration evident in her features, he immediately understood what was going through her mind. He didn't know her well, but his Jedi intuition allowed him to perceive more than she herself admitted. From the moment he had first seen her, introducing herself as a humble handmaiden, he had known there was more to her. There was strength in her gaze, a leadership she could not completely conceal, no matter how much she tried to play a secondary role.

He also understood how difficult it was for her to be there, far from home, not knowing what lay ahead. But most of all, he had noticed how her expression changed when Anakin was near. It was subtle, but every time the boy's eyes landed on her, something in her face shifted. A mix of surprise, tenderness, and a deeper emotion she did not yet seem to fully understand.

And at this moment, Padmé was disappointed in him. She saw his silence as avoidance, his caution as an excuse. She was worried about the fate of the slaves, distressed by Anakin's involvement, terrified at the thought that he might act alone and put his life at risk.

Obi-Wan met her gaze with calm, but inside him, there was a struggle as well. He knew the boy had an indomitable spirit, that he would not sit still waiting for a miracle. And perhaps, just perhaps… neither should he.

"I see you've made a decision" Padmé finally said, crossing her arms as she observed him intently.

"I have" Obi-Wan replied with serenity.

"And may I know what it is?"

The Jedi held her gaze for a moment before answering:

"We need to come up with a plan."

Padmé smiled, relieved.

"A perfect decision, worthy even of a Jedi Master."

Obi-Wan let out a faint smile. He knew that the young woman was not only pleased with his determination, but also comforted by the fact that Anakin would not have to face this injustice alone.

"So, what do you have in mind?" she asked, stepping a little closer, eager to hear the details.

"Tomorrow's sandstorms give us an advantage" Obi-Wan explained "With the entire planet at a standstill, we'll have time to analyze the situation and devise a plan without drawing suspicion."

Padmé nodded enthusiastically.

"Anakin is going to be so happy when he hears this."

"I know" Obi-Wan admitted, his gaze softening "But for now, the best thing we can do is rest. Tomorrow, we'll need to be at our best."

Padmé sighed and looked toward the room where Anakin slept.

"There's no doubt that tomorrow will be a big day."

Obi-Wan gave a slight nod in agreement before closing his eyes again. But this time, his meditation was not guided by resignation, but by preparation for what was to come.

That night, the guests barely managed to get any sleep. After midnight, the sandstorms began with relentless fury. The wind howled, lashing the house with an almost supernatural force, while the sand pounded against the windows and doors as if trying to break them down. The noise was deafening, a continuous roar that made the walls tremble and filled the air with an oppressive sensation.

Padmé and Jar Jar were visibly uneasy. The queen could hardly close her eyes, feeling a weight of uncertainty in her chest, a sense of vulnerability in a world so foreign to her own. Jar Jar, on the other hand, made small nervous jumps every time a particularly strong gust shook the structure.

Obi-Wan, however, remained impassive. He trusted in the Force, allowing it to surround him like a shield, keeping him calm despite the chaos outside.

Anakin and his mother, in contrast, slept soundly. For them, this kind of weather was part of everyday life. Shmi didn't even stir, her breathing steady and tranquil, and Anakin, curled up under the blankets, slept with a serene expression.

However, at some point in the early morning, the boy shifted restlessly and opened his eyes. For a few seconds, he remained silent as his mind slowly woke up and the memories of the previous day returned with force. The anguish of the desperate slave pleading for help. His frustration at not being able to locate the tracking chip. The anger, the helplessness.

But amidst those dark thoughts, warmer ones emerged, wrapping around him like a comforting blanket. He remembered Padmé's embrace, the way her arms had gently surrounded him, the serene rhythm of her breathing that had gradually calmed him. She smelled so good… a soft, enveloping fragrance, like the breeze at dawn. Her skin was smooth, her hair silky, and the way her fingers had traced his back had eased the tension in his body.

For a moment, Anakin allowed himself to sink into those memories, savoring the warmth they evoked. But finally, he felt the need to get up. With silent steps, he left his mother's room and headed to the bathroom.

As he returned, a noise made him stop. It came from his room, the chamber where Padmé was sleeping. But she wasn't asleep. Through the crack of the slightly open door, he could see her moving restlessly around the room, gathering objects in haste.

Concerned, he completely forgot about the storm raging outside, he was so used to it that he barely even noticed it, and entered without bothering to knock, convinced that Padmé might need him urgently.

"Padmé? Is everything alright?" he asked, stepping into the room.

Padmé, who was stacking objects to block the door leading to the patio, turned around in surprise.

"Oh, Ani…" she exhaled, still breathless from the boy's sudden entrance "I couldn't sleep. The storm is so strong, and I was afraid the wind might force the door open. I'm securing it."

Anakin barely heard her. His eyes had instinctively settled on her, and for an instant, his mind went blank. Padmé's delicate nightgown had shifted with her effort, and the hurried movements of her task had left her neckline slightly exposed. The fabric clung to her figure, highlighting her femininity with a natural softness.

The boy swallowed dryly, feeling an unusual warmth rise to his face.

"It's nothing to worry about" he finally managed to say after a brief silence "You don't have to be afraid, Padmé. The house has withstood storms like this… and worse."

She looked at him for a moment and then gave him a tired smile.

"I suppose I have a lot to learn about this planet."

Anakin nodded, his heart still pounding, unsure whether it was because of the storm… or the strange sensation that had coursed through him when he saw her like that.

Padmé smiled at him with slight nervousness before reaching for her robe and tying it around herself in a fluid motion, covering her body with the same natural grace with which she moved in court. She had noticed Anakin's gaze, the way his eyes had settled on her form, and she was glad she had prepared beforehand, ensuring her robe was within reach before going to bed.

However, even as she saw him look at her again, she felt no shame. She didn't rush to scold him or try to hide what was already evident. There was something innocent and pure in the boy's eyes, a mix of admiration and curiosity that couldn't be seen as inappropriate.

She stepped closer to him with tenderness and, placing a hand on his tousled hair, began to stroke it gently.

"Are you feeling better now?" she asked softly.

Anakin closed his eyes for a moment, enjoying the touch of her fingers before nodding.

"A little… thanks to you. But I still think this whole situation is so unfair… Even so, I guess I shouldn't have been angry with Obi-Wan. He's only trying to do what's best for me, for everyone. He knows getting involved could be dangerous."

"You're right" Padmé replied in a calm voice "He understands all of that, and I must tell you, he feels just as bad as you do. He truly wants to help, but he feels tied down by everything happening."

Anakin lowered his gaze, thoughtful.

"I guess he does… I shouldn't have said what I said to him."

"You weren't thinking, Ani. You're very young, and you've experienced too much, many things unfair and difficult to endure" she paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully "But rest assured, Obi-Wan has faced injustices too. And even when he hasn't been able to act as he wished, in the end, he has found a way to do the right thing. This time won't be the exception. After all, you're with him, and you'll help him find a solution."

Anakin looked up at her, a new determination shining in his eyes.

"That's what Jedi do, right?"

Padmé smiled warmly.

"That's right, Ani. That's what they always do, resolve conflicts, protect the innocent."

For a moment, they both remained silent, letting the calm of their conversation wrap around them amid the storm. Then, without hesitation, Anakin took Padmé's hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. Her skin was warm and soft, and the contact comforted him more than he cared to admit. It hadn't been long since he had last felt that warmth, and deep down, he was glad the moment had come again so soon.

Their eyes met, reflecting something deeper than mere gratitude.

"Thank you for your words. I feel better now" he whispered sincerely.

"I'm glad to hear that" she replied with a smile "Now we should get some rest. We shouldn't be sad or anxious."

Anakin nodded gently.

"The storm won't harm you, Padmé. You don't have to worry."

She gave him a warm look before gently squeezing his hand.

"Thank you… Now I'm the one who's grateful for your words."

With some reluctance, Anakin finally let go of her hand. He didn't want to leave just yet, but he knew he had to return to his mother.

They exchanged one last smile, and as Anakin left the room, he carried with him more than just reassurance. There was something about Padmé, in the way she looked at him, in the way she touched him, that awakened in him a desire to always be by her side. Though he didn't fully understand what he was feeling yet, one thing was clear: no matter what happened, he would do everything in his power to protect her.

The next day, the storm continued to rage with the same ferocity as during the night. The wind whistled through the cracks of the house, and the sand battered against the walls with relentless force, as if the planet itself wanted to keep them trapped inside.

One by one, the occupants of the small house began to wake up, stretching and shaking off the lethargy of the night. All except Anakin. The boy remained deeply asleep, wrapped in his cloak, breathing steadily. His face, for the first time in a long while, reflected genuine peace. No one had the heart to wake him. After all, he had endured exhausting days due to Watto's punishment.

Meanwhile, the others gathered in the dining area, sharing a modest breakfast. Padmé, unable to contain her anxiety, watched Obi-Wan expectantly. She knew the Jedi had not fallen asleep immediately the night before. He had remained silent, meditating, analyzing every possibility. Now, it was time to hear what he had decided.

Obi-Wan cleared his throat and spoke with the serenity of someone who had already accepted the magnitude of the challenge.

"We must make those criminals leave the planet" he began, his tone steady and calculated "But everything must seem natural, as if the events were the work of the desert itself, without anyone suspecting an external intervention."

The others listened in complete silence, attentive to every detail.

"Those men must have a warehouse where they store their stolen loot, transports, and weapons. Our priority is to locate that facility and sabotage it. We don't have the strength to face them directly, so we must take advantage of what we do have: the storm. I assume they're outsiders, so they don't truly understand the damage these sandstorms can cause. Everything must look like a natural disaster."

C-3PO tilted his head, impressed.

"That is a brilliant plan, Master Kenobi!"

R2-D2 let out a series of sharp, teasing beeps, causing the protocol droid to turn to him indignantly.

"What do you mean it's brilliant because I didn't come up with it?" he exclaimed, offended.

R2 emitted more sounds, this time with an amused tone.

"Oh, not this early in the day!" 3PO complained, crossing his arms.

But Padmé wasn't in the mood for distractions. Something in Obi-Wan's words had sent a chill down her spine.

"Does that mean you'll have to go out into the storm?" she asked, her tone more serious now.

Obi-Wan held her gaze and nodded.

"That's the problema, it's the only way to make everything look like an accident while also ensuring the slaves aren't exposed. If the criminals suspect someone is behind this, they might retaliate."

Padmé bit her lower lip in concern.

"I understand, but I can't help worrying about you. Something could happen to you."

Obi-Wan let out a sigh, but his expression remained firm.

"I know, but this is the best way to ensure those people have a better future."

Padmé looked away for a moment, frustrated.

"But if you're going out, we should at least make sure you know exactly where to go. The storm is too strong, you could get lost. And right now… we don't know where their hideout is."

Jar Jar shifted uncomfortably in his seat, glancing at the window.

"Meesa no likin' this… No likin' at all…"

That was when Shmi's voice rose, calm, but with a certainty that made everyone look at her.

"I think I might know where it is" she said softly "There's an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of Mos Espa, a massive structure that's been empty for years. It's a lonely place, far from prying eyes… If I had to bet, I'd say they're there."

Obi-Wan's eyes shone with interest.

"That makes sense… But can you tell me exactly where it is?"

Shmi lowered her gaze, thoughtful.

"I'm sorry, I don't have a map of the city to point it out. I could take you there, guide you along the way, but in this weather… I wouldn't be able to walk through the streets under these conditions."

Padmé took a deep breath, searching for a solution.

"Maybe the weather will improve soon" she said, trying to sound optimistic.

Shmi looked at her kindly before nodding.

"There's always a moment when the storm calms down, even if just a little. Some people dare to go out during those moments, but very few take the risk."

Obi-Wan nodded with determination.

"That will be our opportunity."

"But we still have the problem of not knowing exactly how to get there" Padmé said, crossing her arms in concern.

"A solution will surely present itself" Obi-Wan replied with his characteristic calm, though his mind was already beginning to map out possible paths.

Meanwhile, in the small room, Anakin remained in deep sleep. His breathing was steady, and in his mind, a familiar image played over and over, a vision as comforting as it was cherished.

It was his most beloved dream, the only one that could compare to the one where he caught glimpses of Padmé, even before he knew it was her appearing in his nocturnal visions. Since he could remember, that blurred silhouette had lived in his subconscious, an ethereal presence that brought him an inexplicable sense of peace and warmth. It had no defined face, but its very existence reassured him, as if it had always been destined to be part of his life. Only with time, when he met her in person, did his mind give the dream a name and a real face, forever changing its meaning.

But this other dream was different. It filled him not only with longing but also with purpose. It was the promise of what he could become, the image of a future where he had the power to change the fate of his people.

For years, even before he understood what he was seeing, he had dreamed of becoming a Jedi Knight. He saw himself tall, strong, holding a lightsaber, with an imposing robe billowing in the wind. At first, in his childish imagination, Jedi wore bright colors and gleaming armor, like the heroes from the stories he heard in the market. But now that he had met a real Jedi, his mind had adjusted those details.

In his dream, he wore garments similar to Obi-Wan's but darker, made of sturdy leather, with a weapons belt and high boots. His lightsaber glowed a vibrant blue, and he was older, perhaps ten years older. He saw himself walking confidently across the sands of Tatooine, freeing slaves. He saw the hopeful faces of men, women, and children who, for the first time in their lives, felt the breeze of freedom. Among them, his mother.

Oh, how he loved that dream. Because in it, he was powerful. Because in it, he brought justice.

But reality was quick to claim him.

His body shifted slightly on the bed, sleep faded away, and consciousness returned to him like a sharp blow. As he opened his eyes, he bitterly remembered that it would never happen.

Obi-Wan had made it very clear.

The Jedi no longer existed.

It was a bitter truth that weighed on his heart like a heavy slab. Only Obi-Wan remained. He was the last link to that ancient Order that had once protected the galaxy. And though his friend still held firmly to his teachings, things had changed.

Now, every action had to be measured with extreme care.

Obi-Wan no longer had the security of a great Jedi Order behind him, nor the protection of a code established in times of peace. His decisions did not only affect him but also those around him. If he made a mistake, if he drew too much attention, if he used the Force carelessly, he was not only exposing himself, he was putting Padmé, Jar Jar… himself and his mother at risk.

Thinking about it made his stomach churn. He had spent years dreaming of becoming a Jedi Knight, of traveling the galaxy as a guardian of justice, of freeing the slaves of Tatooine, of seeing his mother live a dignified life, free of chains. But reality was different. Now, caution was worth more than any heroic act. A single misstep could mean the end of everything.

It was a hard thought to accept.

But he had no choice.

He sighed. He knew he shouldn't insist. But how could he ignore the burning desire in his chest? If only he could do something about it.

With laziness, he sat on the edge of the bed and ran a hand over his face, still feeling the warmth of the blankets. Outside, the roar of the wind reminded him why his mother hadn't woken him. The storm was still raging, trapping everyone inside their homes.

He dressed quickly, and as he fastened his belt, he remembered what had happened the night before.

He had been rude.

To his mother, to Obi-Wan, to Padmé.

Shame washed over him as he recalled his attitude. They had treated him with patience, with understanding… and he had only responded with anger.

He took a deep breath. It wasn't too late to make things right.

As he left the room, the sound of voices reached his ears. Everyone was gathered, and judging by their tones, they seemed concerned yet determined.

"Good morning" he greeted, trying to sound natural.

All eyes turned toward him.

"How did you sleep, Ani?" his mother asked sweetly, her eyes watching him with the same warmth as always.

"Very well, thanks for letting me sleep in."

He glanced at the others. Padmé smiled at him, Shmi looked at him with tenderness, C-3PO seemed pleased to see him awake. But when his eyes met Obi-Wan's, he saw something else. It wasn't anger, but neither was it his friend's usual patience. There was something in his expression that he couldn't quite decipher.

"Listen… I…" he took a breath and lowered his gaze slightly "I'm sorry for my behavior last night. I was rude to you, Obi-Wan. I was disrespectful to you, Mom, and when you tried to support me, Padmé, I treated you without the respect you deserve."

He lifted his gaze, meeting each of them.

"I truly regret it. Please forgive me."

A brief silence followed. Then, Shmi took his hand warmly.

"There's nothing to forgive, my child."

Padmé gave him a gentle smile.

"I know yesterday was a difficult day for you. You don't have to apologize."

Obi-Wan, for his part, regarded him seriously, but his voice was calm when he responded:

"We all make mistakes, Anakin. What matters is learning from them."

The boy nodded, feeling a weight lift from his chest.

"What were you talking about?" Anakin asked as he plopped down next to Padmé.

She wore a simple, sleeveless outfit in golden and ochre tones, her hair tied up practically, yet to him, she still looked perfect, like the most beautiful sunrise over Tatooine's dunes.

"We have a plan to help the slaves, Ani" Padmé said softly.

Anakin, who had just taken a sip of water, felt the air leave his lungs. The shock hit him so hard that he ended up spitting the liquid out… right onto Jar Jar's face.

"Eww, you soaked me! Gross!" the Gungan complained, shaking himself off indignantly.

"Sorry…" the boy murmured, though he wasn't really speaking to him, he wasn't even paying attention. His eyes were locked on Padmé, shining with disbelief "What did you just say?"

Obi-Wan stepped in, explaining the details of the plan.

"Everything must look like the work of the sandstorm, so we must be extremely careful" the Jedi concluded.

"But we still don't know how to get there" Padmé admitted, a hint of concern in her voice.

Anakin, without a second's hesitation, straightened his back and said firmly:

"I'll take you, Obi-Wan."

The room fell silent instantly.

"Ani, it's too dangerous" Shmi intervened, her voice trembling "I don't want you to risk yourself like that, please."

The boy turned to his mother with an unusual seriousness for someone his age.

"Mom, we have to do something. We have no choice. Imagine if, as punishment, they activated the chips of all those innocent slaves…"

Shmi lowered her gaze, unable to hold her son's stare. Her hands trembled, and her eyes filled with tears.

"Ani… this isn't something to take lightly" Padmé said, approaching the woman and wrapping her in a comforting embrace "It could be very dangerous."

"I know" Anakin murmured, his voice barely a whisper "But if we don't do it now, we may never get another chance."

Obi-Wan nodded solemnly.

"We'll wait for the storm to die down enough so we can move without drawing attention."

There was no other option. Obi-Wan needed someone with a deep knowledge of mechanics, someone capable of tampering with the transports precisely so that the malfunctions seemed like the storm's doing and not intentional sabotage. Anakin was the best choice. No one knew Tatooine's machinery better than he did, how it worked and how to disable it without leaving obvious traces.

While he took care of rendering the vehicles useless, Obi-Wan had another equally crucial task: weakening the walls and roof of the hideout without arousing suspicion. If they did it right, the structure would collapse at just the right moment, forcing the occupants to evacuate without time to react. Only then could they ensure that the criminals abandoned the planet with no way to return.

The mission's success depended on their precision and making sure every bit of damage seemed like the work of Tatooine's merciless weather.

Shmi and Padmé exchanged a look filled with worry and resignation. They didn't like the idea of Anakin facing such great danger, but they also knew stopping him was impossible. Deep down, they both understood that their only hope for success rested on this unlikely duo: a Jedi Knight with the wisdom and skill of an experienced warrior, and a prodigious boy whose cunning and mechanical talent far exceeded that of many adults.

As reckless as it seemed, the truth was undeniable. If anyone could carry out this mission with precision and without being discovered, it was them. Obi-Wan had the training, the strategy, and the discipline, while Anakin possessed the ingenuity, intuition, and bravery of someone who had grown up overcoming adversity. Together, they formed a team as improbable as they were formidable.

Even so, the tension in the air was thick. There was nothing left to do but trust them… and the Force.

"Don't worry" Obi-Wan said calmly "I'll take care of him. We'll stay tied to a rope at all times so we don't lose sight of each other, and I'll be very attentive to his safety."

Shmi sighed, closing her eyes for a moment, trying to contain her anguish. Padmé pressed her lips together, concerned, but in the end, both understood that there was no other choice. If they wanted to save the slaves, this was the only path.

Soon after, everyone worked together to pack tools into a backpack for Anakin to sabotage the transports.

The boy already knew his Jedi friend's plan and felt excited to be part of it, but deep down, a growing unease gripped his chest. Crossing the sandstorm would be dangerous, far more than he wanted to admit.

There was no turning back.

They would succeed.

They had to succeed.

Moments later, Anakin watched through the window, his gaze fixed on the sandstorm that still raged outside. The time to leave was near, and his heart pounded with fierce intensity. He felt a surge of conflicting emotions, nervousness at the imminent danger, anxiety at the possibility of being discovered and everything ending in disaster, but also an indescribable excitement.

Not only was he about to accompany a Jedi Knight on a real mission, but he also had the chance to prove that he, too, could be a hero. It didn't matter that he was just a child, this was his opportunity to show that he could make a difference, to prove that he was just as capable of saving lives as any Jedi. He imagined the faces of the slaves when they were freed from that injustice, the disbelief turning into gratitude. That thought filled him with determination.

But there was something else driving him. He knew that Padmé saw him as a child… and yet, in a way different from everyone else. He didn't fully understand that special nuance in the way she treated him, but he was sure that if he completed the mission successfully, he would impress her. He wanted her to see him as someone strong, brave… someone worthy of her admiration.

The moment arrived. Outside, the storm relented, a brief calm they had to seize before it rose again with fury.

"Be very careful, Ani" said Shmi, her voice trembling as she helped her son put on a mask similar to a balaclava to protect his face from the wind and sand "Don't separate from Obi-Wan under any circumstances."

"I won't, Mom" Anakin responded firmly, adjusting the backpack on his shoulders "Don't worry, we'll be very careful and stay together the whole time."

Padmé stepped forward, concern reflected in her eyes.

"Please, both of you be careful" she urged, but then she focused on Anakin "Especially you, Ani. Listen to Obi-Wan and do exactly as he says."

"I promise" the boy assured her, flashing a confident smile as he put on a pair of protective plastic goggles "I won't do anything he doesn't approve of."

Obi-Wan, already prepared with his own balaclava, goggles, and his tunic covering his body, watched them with calmness. He carried his lightsaber… and that of his late master, a reminder of the legacy he now had to honor.

"Obi-Wan, we're going to be very careful, right?" Anakin asked as he approached him, fully ready.

The Jedi gave him a small smile.

"We will. And I assure you, we'll succeed without taking unnecessary risks. You can rest easy."

The moment had come. Shmi hugged her son tightly, holding onto him as if trying to etch that moment into her heart.

"Be very careful, my love" she whispered.

Padmé also embraced him, a gesture full of warmth and affection.

Obi-Wan and Anakin tied themselves together with a strong rope, ensuring they wouldn't get separated in the middle of the storm. With one last glance at the two women they were leaving behind, they crossed the door of the modest Skywalker home and stepped into the fury of the desert.

Padmé gently held onto Shmi's arm, offering her support as they both took refuge in the small living room of the Skywalker house. Outside, the sandstorm raged with less fury than before but still battered insistently against the window glass.

"They'll be fine" Padmé assured with a firmness meant to inspire confidence "Ani is capable of this and more, I have no doubt."

Shmi offered a warm smile, though her eyes reflected the inevitable worry of a mother.

"Yes. He is a very brave boy, and he doesn't give up easily. I am so proud of him."

They held hands in a silent gesture of mutual support, their gazes fixed on the window as if at any moment, Anakin's figure might appear through the sand.

Outside, Anakin and Obi-Wan trudged through streets blurred by the wind and sand that mercilessly struck their skin. Visibility was nearly zero, but the boy strained his eyes, guiding his Jedi companion as best he could.

"We have to turn left here" he instructed firmly.

Before he could react, a gust of wind violently hurled him toward a stone wall. Anakin felt his body lift and lose control, but before he could hit the surface, an invisible force caught him in midair and gently set him back on the ground.

He blinked in a daze and saw Obi-Wan standing beside him, one hand extended, the other resting on his shoulder.

"Oh… thanks."

"Don't mention it" the Jedi said with a slight smile "Looks like we could use a little extra help."

Without another word, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and stretched out his hands. The storm seemed to part before them, forming a more stable path amidst the chaos of sand. Anakin watched in awe as the Jedi channeled the Force, creating a safe passage for them to move forward.

"Wow…" he whispered before composing himself and continuing to lead the way.

At last, they reached the massive warehouse. From outside, they could see the flickering light of old lamps and hear the guttural voices of the thugs inside.

"Looks like this is the place" Obi-Wan murmured.

"There's a door here" Anakin pointed out, struggling with the handle "But it's locked tight."

Obi-Wan examined the lock and, without effort, waved his hand through the air. A soft click sounded, and the door swung open without making a sound.

Anakin squinted, impressed.

"Jedi never stop amazing me."

Obi-Wan barely smiled as they slipped inside.

"The Force is what's amazing, Anakin. We simply learn to listen to it and guide its energy for good."

Inside, the thugs were absorbed in a card game, laughing and arguing among themselves. They hadn't noticed their presence.

Without a doubt, they had found the right place. Around them, stolen goods lay scattered without order, carelessly piled in great heaps. Anakin instantly recognized the products that local slaves transported daily, now hoarded as mere loot. Besides the supplies, there were also several crates of weapons and a couple of transports in apparent working condition.

"This is definitely the place" Anakin whispered to Obi-Wan, his brow furrowed.

With a swift motion, Obi-Wan untied the rope, knowing they wouldn't need it inside anymore.

"Stay out of sight" he warned in a whisper "I'm going to take care of the weakened beams."

Anakin nodded with determination, though his pulse quickened with excitement and nervousness.

"I'll handle sabotaging the transports."

Each moved through the warehouse with precise movements.

Anakin crouched next to one of the transports, using his tools to create small short circuits in the systems, loosening bolts, and tampering with connections. He knew he had to leave them useless when they needed them most.

A few meters away, Obi-Wan channeled the Force, exerting pressure on the beams corroded by time. Just a little more, and the structure would begin to collapse on its own.

Slowly, the roof started to creak with a dull sound. The criminals glanced up for a moment, uneasy, but seeing that everything remained in place, they shrugged and returned to their game.

Anakin heard the creaking too. He couldn't see what Obi-Wan was doing, but he was sure his Jedi friend was behind it.

Both finished almost simultaneously. The transports were sabotaged, the structure hung by a thread. Only one thing remained.

It was time to get out of there.

Tying themselves together again to avoid getting separated in the sandstorm, Obi-Wan and Anakin stepped out with determination. Fortunately, the mission hadn't taken too long, and the storm had yet to regain its full fury.

Once more, Obi-Wan channeled the Force, creating a safe passage through the swirling sand. Anakin walked forward with confidence, guided not only by his instincts but also by the invisible protection his Jedi companion maintained around him.

"Very good work, Anakin" Obi-Wan said approvingly "When the structure collapses, those ruffians will run away without looking back, leaving behind all the evidence that proves the slaves' innocence: the transports, the dangerous weapons they claimed to have seen in the criminals' hands, and, of course, all the stolen goods."

Anakin's eyes sparkled with excitement.

"We saved them, Obi-Wan! Thank you so much!" he exclaimed with overwhelming joy.

The Jedi smiled calmly.

"Thank yourself, Anakin. You were the one who had the will to help. Without your participation and determination, none of this would have been possible."

The boy couldn't hide his happiness. For the first time in his life, he felt that he was making a difference, that his desire to do good could turn into action. But beyond the euphoria of the moment, a deeper feeling invaded his heart: he and Obi-Wan had made a great team, and something inside him told him that this was only the beginning.

For his part, Obi-Wan felt it too. It had been a successful mission not just because of the outcome, but because, naturally, they had worked as one, in perfect harmony. This was how Jedi fought, how true companions supported each other.

Meanwhile, at the Skywalker home, Padmé had been an invaluable support to Shmi. With sweet words and a comforting presence, she had managed to ease Anakin's mother's anxiety. More and more, Shmi saw in the young girl a kind and noble soul, and in her heart, she already held the certainty that one day, Padmé would be a wonderful daughter-in-law.

"They must be on their way by now" Padmé said reassuringly, handing Shmi a cup of tea and gently placing a blanket over her shoulders "They know the calm in the storm won't last long, and they wouldn't risk staying outside more than necessary."

Shmi nodded, letting out a sigh.

"You're right, dear. They'll be back any moment now."

Jar Jar, who was anxiously watching through the window, tilted his head.

"But meesa doesn't see them yet!"

Shmi and Padmé exchanged glances, trying to ignore the Gungan's unintentional clumsiness.

"But they must be close by now" Padmé insisted confidently, holding onto the certainty that Anakin and Obi-Wan would arrive soon "They'll be back any moment."

"I'm sure that at any moment, we'll hear Master Ani's voice saying…" C-3PO began enthusiastically.

But before he could finish the sentence, the unmistakable voice of the boy rang from outside.

"3PO, don't block the door, let us in!"

The droid hesitated for a moment.

"That wasn't exactly what I had in mind, but at least they're back."

As soon as the door opened, a gust of warm air accompanied Anakin and Obi-Wan inside. They were covered in dust and sand but completely unharmed. A wave of relief swept through the small house upon seeing them safe and sound.

"Ani, my love!" Shmi exclaimed, wrapping her son in an emotional embrace "I was so worried… I'm so glad you're here."

Anakin let himself be held, feeling the warmth and love of his mother, but before he could respond, Padmé was already wrapping her arms around him too.

"We were really worried about you."

Her voice was sweet, filled with genuine affection.

Anakin felt his heart beat faster. Having both his mother and Padmé so close made him feel an immense happiness.

"So how did everything go?" Jar Jar asked curiously.

Obi-Wan, while removing his storm gear and untying the rope that had kept him connected to Anakin, answered calmly.

"I hope well. We did our part… now it all depends on gravity."

Anakin, with a mischievous grin, added:

"I'm sure that by tomorrow, we'll hear that the whole world came crashing down on those ruffians."

Shmi embraced him once more, kissing his cheek with pride.

"I'm so proud of you, Ani."

The gesture caught him by surprise, and warmth immediately rushed to his face. The act made him feel like a little boy, exactly when he least wanted to after his great feat. Hiding his embarrassment, he straightened his back and adopted a confident expression, determined to maintain his heroic image.

"It feels great to do something this epic."

In reality, his words were meant for everyone, but his gaze subtly drifted toward Padmé. He wanted her to hear him, to understand that, even though he was just a boy, he could be a hero.

Padmé looked at him tenderly and smiled.

"You're a true hero, Ani."

Anakin's stomach twisted with a mix of excitement and nervousness. The most beautiful girl in the universe had just called him a hero. Maybe, one day, she would consider him her hero.

He tried not to look too excited, but his blush betrayed him.

"Thanks for saying that."

Then, suddenly, he remembered something.

"Hey, now that I think about it… you still haven't told us why you came here in the first place."

Obi-Wan exchanged a glance with Padmé before nodding.

"I suppose we can spend the rest of the day bringing you up to speed."

Padmé nodded as well.

"Yes, after all the kindness you've shown us, it's only fair that we explain everything in detail."

As the sandstorm continued to rage outside, shaking the walls with its relentless fury, the newcomers settled around the small table in the Skywalker home. Shmi served hot tea, as if the simple act of sharing something warm could make the difficult story they were about to tell a little easier to bear.

Padmé, with the dignity of a queen even in the midst of adversity, began to recount what had happened. She spoke of how the Trade Federation had blockaded Naboo with its fleet, preventing supplies from coming in or out, slowly suffocating her people in an attempt to break her. She explained that the invasion had been swift and ruthless; their military forces entered without resistance, captured her people, and took her prisoner, demanding that she sign a treaty legitimizing the occupation.

Shmi's eyes filled with concern as Anakin listened intently.

Obi-Wan took over, his tone measured and calm, recalling his arrival on Naboo with his master. He told them how Qui-Gon Jinn, with his wisdom and composure, had tried to negotiate, only to be attacked by battle droids. He described their escape to the planet's surface and their encounter with the Gungans, the underwater people who had stayed out of the conflicto, until they were forced to join the fight to save their world.

The story continued with the battle that took place on Naboo: the Gungans facing the droids in the green fields, the Jedi sabotaging the command center, and the desperate mission to free the palace. It was then that Obi-Wan, his tone shifting, spoke of the appearance of a dark and deadly enemy, a Sith warrior with red and black skin and golden eyes, wielding a double-bladed lightsaber.

Darth Maul.

Shmi held her breath, and Anakin, though fascinated by the story, felt a chill run down his spine.

Obi-Wan went on, describing the fierce confrontation. He spoke of the Sith's agility and aggression, of how he and his master fought with all their strength, of how the duel led them onto a narrow catwalk and then into a vast chamber with energy fields that separated them at the worst possible moment. In a graver tone, he recounted how Qui-Gon was left to fight Maul alone… and how, when the doors reopened, he arrived too late.

"My master fell. I saw him kneeling, struggling to take his last breath…"

Obi-Wan paused for a moment. It wasn't easy to relive.

Shmi placed a hand over her heart in shared sorrow, and Padmé lowered her head respectfully, as if she could still feel the loss of the noble Jedi who had believed in her and her cause.

Obi-Wan didn't dwell too much on what came next, the rage that drove him to keep fighting, the fierce duel where he faced Darth Maul alone, the unyielding determination that led him to victory. But he made it clear that, though that battle had been won, the war was far from over.

However, there was one moment he couldn't overlook. A moment etched in his memory as sharply as the blade of a lightsaber. With his last breath, as life slowly slipped away, Qui-Gon Jinn had looked into his eyes and, with the certainty of a master who trusts his apprentice, had named him a Jedi Knight.

The last in the galaxy.

The weight of those words still followed him. Not as a title, but as a responsibility he wasn't sure he could bear at the time.

With Qui-Gon's death, the responsibility of protecting the queen fell on him, leading to this very momento, stranded on Tatooine, without communication and without the means to repair their ship.

A heavy silence filled the room.

Anakin, his heart pounding, looked at Padmé. He could barely imagine what she had been through, the pressure she carried on her shoulders. And yet, there she was, strong, composed… beautiful.

For the first time, he understood that she wasn't just an incredible girl. She was a leader, a fighter. And he wanted to help her.

Shmi, with her characteristic warmth, placed a gentle hand over Padmé's, offering silent comfort.

"What you've been through is terrible, dear. But you are with us now, and in the meantime, we will be a family."

Padmé returned a grateful smile. Despite everything they had lost and the uncertain path ahead, in that moment, she felt that they were not alone.

Anakin, his brow furrowed and determination shining in his eyes, spoke firmly.

"If there's anything I can do to help, I'll do it gladly."

Obi-Wan nodded, moved by the boy's sincerity.

"Thank you, Anakin. Thank you both."

Outside, the sandstorm continued to rage, relentless, sweeping across the desert with its fury. But inside that humble home, something had changed. The paths of those present had intertwined in a way none of them could foresee. And with that, the fate of the galaxy had begun to shift.

With each passing day, the newly expanded Skywalker family grew closer, forging bonds that would allow them to trust one another. Now that Anakin and his mother understood the arduous journey their new friends had taken to get here, they were more willing than ever to support them unconditionally.

This chapter marked an important milestone: for the first time, Anakin and Obi-Wan had worked together as a real team to accomplish a mission. Despite their differences, they managed to complement each other and do a great job, reflecting what it truly means to be a Jedi. Though they were not yet officially master and apprentice, this moment made it clear that they had much to learn from one another.

However, we also saw a troubling side of Anakin, his unbridled fury. The anger burning within him not only made him see the world's injustices but also drove him to react impulsively against those around him, even those who cared about him the most. His mother, Obi-Wan, and even Padmé, the person who would one day become his greatest love, couldn't stop him when he allowed his rage to consume him. This reminds us that Anakin's greatest enemy is not external but within himself.

But despite everything, one thing remains constant: Padmé will always be by his side. Her love for Anakin grows with time, transforming into a deep and unbreakable feeling, a passion and an affection without limits that, when the time comes, will be strong enough to hold him even in his darkest moments.

Thank you for joining me in this chapter.

I'd love to hear your thoughts, what do you think of the story so far?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments, I read them eagerly!

See you in the next chapter. Don't miss it!