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Chapter 4

"Silence!" snapped Yoda.

The outburst was so unlike the Grandmaster that it was almost as shocking as Skywalker's stunt. All eyes were on the Order's Grandmaster.

Again, in less than 24 hours, Obi-Wan was humiliated. For Anakin to just leave like that... Blast! Where did he go wrong with that boy?!

"Complacent we were," muttered Yoda. "Saw this, we did not," he looked at the Jedi. "His attachments, we underestimated."

"Skywalker has shown no signs of falling to the Dark Side," Billaba spoke up, one of the few Jedi who liked Anakin. "By trying to throw the book at Anakin, we may have disillusioned him and made him feel as if we're untrustworthy and unsympathetic to his plights."

"We can't just allow one of our most powerful members to leave!" Tiin protested. "He's demonstrated that his feelings can be used against him!"

"We cannot go off on pure speculation and hypotheticals," Master Koon finally said.

"An enemy, Skywalker is not. Remain that way, it must." Yoda decided. He had a troubled expression on his face.

"Leaving the Jedi Order does not mean Skywalker has fallen to the Dark Side," Kit Fisto echoed.

"No, but it's blatant disrespect to the Jedi Code!" Rancisis exclaimed.

"Stop Skywalker from leaving, we cannot. Hear from his Master, I wish to." Yoda stated.

At that, all eyes turned to Kenobi.

"I knew there was something different about Anakin," Obi-Wan declared. "He has countermanded my orders publicly in front of the Senator."

"That line of thinking has turned out to be successful," the Togruta Shaak Ti declared. "Wesell was captured smoothly. Padawans are not only present to obey orders, Knight Kenobi."

Obi-Wan nodded instantly. Obviously not...

"I cannot deny that his method was successful. It is only due to Skywalker that we managed to get this far in the conspiracy." Mace Windu pointed out neutrally.

The Korun had a point. Kenobi couldn't argue that Skywalker's intelligence, rather than rushing in with saber skills, made the Jedi Knight proud. He'd hoped that would become a normal routine.

"But, I feel it too. Skywalker himself is a living Shatterpoint. It is as if the future clings to him, and any action he takes will affect everything." Mace's face became concentrated.

"Should he be monitored?" Saesee Tiin inquired tightly.

"I believe that to be unnecessary," Plo Koon stated. "Skywalker does not need further prodding that can risk backfiring against the Order."

"Made, the point has been. Monitor, Skywalker will not be." Yoda declared. "Open-minded, we must be."

"What about this Jango Fett?" Kenobi asked.

"While the Council trusts in your abilities," Master Windu began slowly, "a Mandalorian is not to be underestimated. You were able to rival Darth Maul on Naboo, but Mandalorians are dangerous. You'll need aid."

Oh, it was then that Obi-Wan understood.

The Jedi Council understood that Anakin's change was a concern.

"Well, who's coming with me then?"

Windu retrieved a datapad under his seat and frowned as he read the list. "At this time, there are only a small number of Jedi available to join you in your investigation. Even so, it might take a few days as they're recovering from their major blows."

Gallia cleared her throat. "I do have an idea as to who may be available, Master Windu." A small smile crossed her lips...

Obi-Wan was confused for a moment, "Wh-oh you can't mean..." realization dawned as her smile grew.

Well, it looked like Obi-Wan had more things coming his way today...

Within an hour of leaving the Jedi Order, Anakin had swapped out his Jedi robes for civilian overalls: a tight and crisp black shirt and pants. It was a tradition that Jedi grew their hair out once they reached Knighthood; but Anakin, no longer being a Jedi and still loathing that hairstyle, had combed his hair for the first time in decades-short of the brunette he had in the early days of the Clone Wars.

He returned to the Temple briefly and handed his now gift-wrapped clothing and remaining Jedi possessions over to the closest Temple Guard, save for his lightsaber. Traditionally, Jedi were supposed to surrender their lightsabers, but it was not an enforceable rule, and another one would be created anyhow, so very few had ever handed theirs over.

After nodding in appreciation and walking down the steps of the Temple for the last time in who knew how long, Anakin moved up to the parked speeder and took off towards the Senate Building.

Within five minutes, he was standing outside the Chancellor's office, his hands clenched into fists, knowing the man he still detested most was inside, How had he never noticed how Palpatine had groomed, manipulated, and seduced him last time?

Abruptly, the door opened, snapping Anakin out of his thoughts as his eyes met the emotionless cerulean eyes of Vice Chair Mas Amedda. It would be a lie to say that some part of him didn't hold spite for the Vice Chair, given his later participation in dooming the galaxy. However, he may be useful in the future.

"The Chancellor will see you now, Jedi," he said coldly, stepping aside to allow the Jedi Padawan access, an air of mockery in his tone.

Stepping into the office, he felt a chill rushing up his spine.

"Ah, Anakin," Sidious greeted, smiling generously as he turned around to greet him. "I've been expecting you."

'It is unavoidable. It is your destiny. You, like your father, are now mine.'

To Anakin, he would forever be known as Darth Sidious; the sick monster who didn't care about whom he was harming as long as he had his Empire.

Right now, it would be easy to eliminate Sidious.

Sidious was quick and reflective, but he would not suspect that Skywalker would kill him like that: no one would stop him; not Amedda. One stab and Padmé would never be betrayed. One stab and Luke would never be tortured. One stab and the galaxy would be freed from this monster's presence.

Anakin wasn't going to stab him.

There was a problem with that line of thinking: the trap that Yoda and Mace Windu both fell for. The Sith had spent decades establishing themselves within the Republic. This made the idea of defeating the Sith on the surface problematic at best.

The Clone Wars weren't a war he couldn't stop no matter what he did. It would still happen, for the Outer Rim had reached a snapping point with the Inner Core. Anakin would be known as just a Jedi Padawan who would have killed the Chancellor for no good reason, and it would have been game over for everything he'd wanted.

Doing so anytime soon would end up being a recipe for disaster. It would not only ensure Conferendency victory, but convince the whole galaxy, Padmé, and the Jedi that Skywalker was a demented maniac and that he'd needed to face trial and be locked away for life.

He'd seen everything.

It wasn't long before he became Vader that he'd discovered just how many contingencies Palpatine had gone far back. It didn't just start after he'd successfully avenged the Sith and annihilated the Jedi, but hundreds of fail-safes that Vader never even went through the extent of going into. Just as he did with the Empire, he'd organized a no "win-win" situation for the Jedi to walk into and be destroyed, even if they'd successfully exterminated the Sith.

All he wanted was to go home to Padmé. He just wanted to grow old with her. But... he couldn't. He couldn't in a galaxy ruled by the Sith...

That was not what his children would have wanted...

"My, Anakin, you'd changed your hair..." Palpatine said, eyes widening at his newfound appearance.

"So I have. Good afternoon, Your Excellency," Anakin responded, trying his hardest to keep the tightness out of his voice as he bowed before the beaming Chancellor.

"You needn't bow in my presence, Anakin," Sidious said, waving his hand.

"Thank you, I wish to inform you of the recent developments in the mystery surrounding the attempted assassination of Senator Amidala," Anakin said. "We have captured a Clawdite. I have learned some concerning information about the assassins which has already been reported to the Jedi Council."

Palpatine raised an eyebrow, noticing the plural. "Assassins?" he echoed the word. "I believed that the one behind the attempt on the landing dock was the only one who'd you just told me was in custody."

Skywalker shook his head. "That's unfortunately not the case. The one we have apprehended is a Clawdite Mabari Warrior named Zam Wessel and is partnered with Mandalorian Bounty Hunter Jango Fett. I believe she was hired by Count Dooku, who goes by the name Tyranus."

Skywalker repressed a smirk as he saw Palpatine's eyes twitch ever so slightly.

"The Jedi now suspect that he is the one who commenced the elimination of the Bando Gora."

"...Oh, I have heard about that," Palpatine remarked, keeping his ire under control. "Nothing more than several uncivilized brutes who committed nothing more than the massacre of innocents on several backwater worlds in the Outer Rim. I'm surprised that the Jedi didn't acknowledge their activities until it was too late."

Skywalker shook his head. "The lack of action by the Galactic Senate and Jedi Council both is terrible."

Palpatine nodded. "Respectfully, sometimes, I feel like I'm surrounded by a bunch of self-serving politicians who make up the Republic, my friend. Even I cannot reform that much without burning all the bridges I have built."

A half-truth, unfortunately. Even the best Chancellor in the galaxy wouldn't be able to cleanse the Republic of corruption since the puppet masters of the Core have control.

As Sidious's enforcer in the future past, Skywalker knew exactly how fraked up the political situation of the Republic was at this juncture. Without Sidious, the best realistic solutions were either a CIS victory or a fractured galaxy with a delayed period of reconsolidation wars. Unfortunately, Anakin needed Sidious alive for the next few years to even have a foothold in the Republic, along with the knowledge, political contacts, and allies to be in charge, or at least be the man behind the throne.

Depending on what the throne would be...

A Reformed Republic or a Benevolent Empire... two choices, yet surprisingly difficult. Sadly, the Empire was far more stable than the Republic. Of course, treachery was involved since the members of the Core were played against each other, but it was one thing that Anakin still believed was needed in concept at least if anyone wanted to rebuild that bloody mess from the ground-up.

"So, what is the Council's next move, my friend?"

"That's what I came to speak with you about."

Palpatine nodded. "I see," he said softly. "And so, I assume they've finally given you an assignment. Your patience has paid off."

"Not necessarily," Anakin responded. "I've left the Jedi Order."

Palpatine's reaction to that was almost humorous. "What?" he asked in genuine disbelief, looking at Anakin as if he had just misheard him. "Anakin, perhaps something is wrong with my hearing," he went on, utterly baffled, "I believe you just said you have left the Order?"

Anakin nodded. "You didn't mishear, Chancellor. I have decided that my path with the Jedi is over."

"What? Why?" Palpatine asked, not even having to fake his surprise at the reaction.

"The Council and I have so many disagreements with one another that it's impossible to ignore any longer. It's nothing personal, but I wish to become different and better outside of the Jedi Order."

"Of course," Palpatine purred happily, standing up from behind his desk-Anakin mirroring the movement and, walking over to the young man, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I imagine your former Master is displeased, Anakin. I do hope he doesn't try to interfere with your decision."

A subtle attempt to wedge contempt within him towards Obi-Wan, no doubt...

While the man was far from perfect, Anakin wasn't under any further delusions that the man was against him.

"He, nor the Jedi, will no longer control my destiny, Your Excellency. Aside from a public setting, I would appreciate us not talking about them." Anakin said with feigned callousness to the Jedi.

"Of course, my dear boy. Apologies!" Palpatine hastily said. "It's just... I am just elated that you have chosen your well-being over the Jedi, Anakin. Such decisions highlight your growth."

Anakin said nothing, and loomed beside him, resisting the urge to swipe his hand off his shoulder.

The plan that came to mind was dangerous. Yet, maybe... Anakin could manipulate Sidious until the perfect moment came to strike him down. That being, unfortunately, after the Clone Wars; around the time when the CIS leaders would be dealt with in one way or another. Bringing an end to that mess would be one of his prerogatives. When he had enough power or influence in the GAR, he could reverse some of the damage the Sith had in the GAR and minimize Order 66 if Palpatine was ever motivated to execute it a second time over.

He didn't want the Order destroyed, despite his philosophical disagreements with them. That would be a tragedy. And despite their flaws, there were plenty of good people.

"Chancellor, I do not doubt that your agitation has increased following all of this hard work," Anakin declared, putting on a voice of fright. "But I have to admit I'm unsure if the Republic could survive this madness."

"There's no need for fear and doubt, my friend!" Palpatine's grip tightened in a gesture that could easily be described as comforting.

"I know I'm not a politician, sir, but I'm not complacent about what the rise of this secessionist movement means. We're heading down the path to another war." Anakin replied stoically. "And I know you're amassing power to accomplish change. Change. A change in the entire system..."

"You'll be correct. The secessionist movement has too many grievances with the Republic."

Anakin gave him a vague look. "I understand this request is premature, but I have been observing military tactics from the Old Republic without the Jedi notice for the past ten years. I have always seen this coming."

That would be the justification to explain why he was a good Military General when the Clone Wars started. It would piss off the Jedi for sure but he was doing this for them after all...

"Of course, Anakin, what do you want?" Palpatine leaned in, intrigued.

"Not soon, but eventually..." The final act would be seen as a move for power, something someone like Sidious would arrange to happen for his own enjoyment. "I know of the Security Act Amendment that selects the Supreme Commander of the Republic Military during a time of war. It was given to the once Duros Stantorrs and Jace Malcom among countless others. In time, I want constitutional authority over the Republic Armed Forces."

Anakin didn't like the thought of it, but Palpatine having too much power was exactly the problem. One had to accomplish both power and knowing when to use it to achieve true balance.

Palpatine paused... "That's a lot to ask for, Anakin, even I may not be able to arrange that."

"At first, it may be, but when I show you I am being sincere, I am confident we can reach a congruence. The Jedi do not know of your plans. I know that you're plotting to gain emergency powers, and I haven't informed them because I believe it is entirely necessary in this time of crisis." He had to authenticate some confidence. Not make it seem like a configuration. "But I will serve the Republic no matter what. I am aware that the Republic is incompetent and needs a stronger leader." His throat was suddenly dry, and he buried the remorse and disgust of this type of manipulation, not wanting Sidious to sense either of those emotions. "Deal?"

It was Sidious's turn to nod. He didn't do it instantly. He stood there for a few seconds, contemplating and calculating, and then he nodded once, slowly, and outstretched his hand.

Anakin took it, and they shook.

"Deal."

Darth Sidious had been unable to keep a straight face. His surprise didn't have to be faked when Skywalker mentioned Tyranus in their conversation, and even more so with his proclamation to change the Republic. Yet, Sidious felt the ripples surrounding the Jedi, and the Dark Side soared in triumph. Anakin Skywalker was no longer a Jedi. While the boy was yet to be converted into an appropriate Sith, converting him just became so much easier.

Skywalker's now public opinions, which would obviously be frowned upon, could be quite useful. If he'd propped the boy up in a positive light and the boy proved himself, Skywalker could be used in other degrees; claimed as propaganda of a "Jedi" turning his back on them because of their imbecility. After proving himself, his request to become Supreme Commander in the upcoming war almost felt like a slap in the face that would have been considered unacceptable at any other time. Yet, the possibility of a potential Jedi schism especially with younger members... made Sidious delighted. For a former Jedi disillusioned with the Order to acquire one of the highest titles could work against the Jedi. His future Inquisitorious program could consist of people who could lock blades against heavily esteemed duelists like Mace Windu, Shaak Ti, and Depa Billaba and still win. It would certainly lead to fewer frustrations when Sidious drew those people in.

The contingency orders would have to be known to the public soon after the war started, including the Jedi. The reasoning for this was obvious; a secret Order 66 would lead to a Civil War. Moreover, it wasn't as if Sidious couldn't introduce a bill during wartime regarding the roles of Supreme Commander and Chancellor.

His control over the Senate was already so immense.

He placed his hood over his head, reached for his secure comms, and made the call, waiting a few seconds until his current Apprentice fizzled into existence. "My Master."

"Tyranus, there has been a change of plans," Sidious began. "It seems that you've relied too much on bounty hunters to conceal some of our secrets. Young Skywalker and the Jedi assume that Yan Dooku is aligned with a man named Tyranus."

Tyranus's eyes widened, "Master..."

"Silence," Sidious waved a hand, preventing the older Sith from speaking. "This can still be advantageous to us. Dooku's alignment with Tyranus aside, you'll have to avoid incriminating yourself, for we have another advantage. Anakin Skywalker leaving the Jedi Order."

Tyranus pursed his lips, eyes bulging.

"The facade that Count Dooku is a disgruntled noble ex-Jedi who wants nothing more than to weed out the corruption of the Republic, even if it means war and siding with powerful yet awful people, shall be maintained. But on contradictory terms, you'll make use of Tyranus being an agent name and not a Sith one. You are but a Dark Jedi."

The right side of Dooku's cheek throbbed as he responded, "Very well..."

"You'll have the opportunity to prove yourself when you successfully lure Kenobi. I wish for you to make him feel pain unlike ever before. Stop short of killing him, but make Skywalker feel it through the Force. Make Skywalker feel it in his sleep." Sidious purred, the deliciousness of such thoughts providing him with fuel. He'd needed to see if Skywalker still cared about the fool after all. It could flood Skywalker with even more anger toward the Jedi.

"Torture Kenobi?" Dooku protested. "B-but my Master..."

Sidious almost bared his teeth at Dooku's reluctance. Such emotions were exactly why he was only a short-term Apprentice.

"Skywalker must feel anger. With this shift in the Force, it must be towards our direction. Kenobi is the only available candidate for the boy. Draw his torment out, and Skywalker will feel it."

Tyranus nodded once after a second of hesitation, "As you wish, my Master, but Skywalker is but a boy," he snorted arrogantly. "I imagine investing such time in him would be a mistake."

Sidious frowned at him, sending a warning down the bond to his apprentice. "Mind yourself, Tyranus. You forget that I am the Master and you are the Apprentice. If you wish to accomplish our objective of reformation, you must remain follow my orders."

Dooku bowed his head. "It will be done, my lord."

With that, Sidious severed the communications and leaned back in his chair, thinking about the behavior Skywalker demonstrated earlier. His maturity was a feat. That was always the problem he had with turning Skywalker. The boy was too childish and immature. What did Skywalker witness in the past few months that changed him? No matter, if this change was a permanent one, Skywalker would be even more consequential. The power he'd lusted for, Sidious shall give him until the time came for Anakin Skywalker to transform into a Sith.

The potentiality of this Alliance was far too tantalizing.

Author's note: If it isn't made clear at this point, this will (like my other stories) NOT BE killing Sidious and fixing everything magically. Palpatine was elected through a legal process, and in my opinion, there's no remote way that the Sith wouldn't have contingencies that would ensure the Republic exploded if they were all killed at this point. Thus, Anakin is manipulating Palpatine here, not the other way around. Palpatine would no doubt know when Vader's up to something, but Anakin is different.

Moreover, Anakin is not entirely lying in this chapter. He believes that the galaxy can't be fixed in a negotiable, democratic way. He knows for a fact that most of the people who run the Republic cheerfully applauded when the Empire was declared. Those are the same people who lose a lot of their power if the Republic reforms, so they would prevent that from happening. That's why Anakin's plan for fixing the galaxy is conflicting right now. It would take decades to amalgamate power and start convalescing the core issues investing the galaxy... rebuilding the Core from scratch after playing them all against one another. The only other realistic option is to arrange for the CIS to succeed and pray that they would be good, because either way, you need to shatter the influence of the Core Worlds... and in the past 25K years no one has accomplished that feat.

May the Force be with you all always.