A.C. Benson

Obi-Wan.

If only he had not have been there. If only he had stayed where he would have been be safe. They could have all been safe.

“Master…” His own voice had been a harsh whisper as he sought out the Jedi Master. “Master Windu…?”

“Skywalker?” The Master had been at his side in an instant. “What’s wrong? Are you hurt?”

Anakin had reached out and grasped his arm, using him as a crutch to haul himself upright. “Obi-Wan…” He’d said faintly. “I need to talk to Obi-Wan-!”

“Obi-Wan is expected to arrive within the hour,” Master Windu had informed him. “He was successful in defeating General Grievous. I am leaving now to inform the Chancellor and to see to it that he steps down as he promised…”

“Steps – steps down -” His voice had been bitter. “You have no idea...”

“Anakin - ? What’s wrong?”

“Obi-Wan.” He’d insisted before he turned to make his way to the platforms. He would wait for him.

“Skywalker – Anakin. You must try to answer.” Anakin had barely heard him as he hurried to the platforms, gathering up all the energy he had left. “Have you been attacked? Are you injured? You have to tell me what’s wrong!”

He needed Obi-Wan.

Each time he’d looked back on that moment, Anakin’s bitterness towards his former Master increased more and more. Obi-Wan should not have been there.

“Luke, Leia.” Anakin called to his children, interrupting their game. “It’s late.”

The twins shared a disappointed glance before Leia called back to him, “Five more minutes, Father?”

“Now.”

Before Leia could protest, Luke called to him, “We’re coming, Father.” He received an irritated look from his sister, which he attempted to ignore as he made his way back to the house. Leia followed him, reluctantly.

“It’s not very late, Father.” Luke stated as he followed Anakin into the house. “May we stay awake a while longer?”

“I only asked you both to come inside, Luke,” was his father’s response, before he was left in the hallway with his sister.

Anakin loved his children. Truly. But he feared showing more love towards Leia than towards Luke. He had decided within the first year of their lives that he would train Luke in the ways of the Jedi, and that Leia would be given the chance of living an ordinary life. One both he and Padmé had never had. Therefore, he had to ensure Luke did not become too attached to him. He was suspicious of the fact that Luke’s destiny may lie with the Force and he did not want him to suffer the way he himself had.

Luke had the privilege of being trained early on in life, so he would not find the rules of the Jedi extremely restrictive. Unlike Anakin had, when he had left his mother on Tatooine. Luke knew that attachment was forbidden. But he was a loving boy and Anakin knew he found it difficult to restrain his own emotions. His father sometimes wondered if perhaps it was Leia whom he should have trained, and allowed Luke the freedom of a normal life. It would have been far easier, for Leia had been eager to learn the ways of the Force.

But Anakin had his doubts about Luke’s destiny. Though he knew it was incredibly likely that his destiny would involve the ways of the Force, Anakin would be extremely reluctant to allow him to follow it. He knew all too well the temptation of the dark side, and at the moment he believed Luke would easily be manipulated into turning to it if his family were in danger. Just as he would have when trying to save Padmé. had he known the consequences, he knew he would change it all if he could go back. His own anger and hatred had become too strong following Padmé’s death. Had he remained in the Jedi Order, he had no doubt that he would have turned.

“I know.” Luke responded as he made his way to the living room. “Is Tatia coming for dinner tomorrow, Father?”

“I’m not sure.”

Aloof. Leia had learned what it meant from her Grandfather on one of their rare visits the week before. It was the perfect word to describe their father. Aloof and angry. He was always angry, though he never took it out on them. But she loved her father. She’d heard stories about him. He had been a Jedi once; a hero. The Hero With No Fear. She believed that. Her father feared nothing.

Anakin had hurried to Obi-Wan’s ship as soon as it had landed upon the platform, with Mace close behind him. His Master had immediately sensed his former Padawan’s distress, but before he had time to react Anakin had tightly, almost painfully, grasped the fabric that covered his arm. His weakened state was evident when he hoarsely addressed him, “Master.”

“Anakin? Anakin, what’s wrong?” His voice had been full of undisguised concern as his hands grasped his shoulders. Anakin didn’t respond. He released his Master and collapsed forward, his face in his hands, as his head fell gently against Obi-Wan’s shoulder.

Obi-Wan had looked to Master Windu, who stood close behind Anakin, as he laid a comforting hand against Anakin’s back.

“Anakin,” Mace had spoken slowly, “Anakin, look at me.”

Anakin had slowly and reluctantly drawn himself from Obi-Wan to look at the Jedi Master, as Obi-Wan’s hand fell from his shoulder. He’d look at him, the look in his eyes had caused the two Master’s freeze in shock. He’d known how he looked. His eyes had stung and he had no doubt they were red and bloodshot; his expression had not concealed the anguish he’d felt. He knew they could sense the monster within him. The fear. Eating away at him from the inside out.

“You…you can’t…” Anakin’s voice was hoarse. “It has to be an arrest…promise me you’re not going to hurt him…”

Obi-Wan’s startled expression had not been missed by Anakin. He knew then; Obi-Wan knew what was happening. He knew this was about Palpatine.

“I…I have bad news…” Anakin continued.

“Bad news?”

Anakin didn’t trust Master Windu. His promise would mean nothing to him. He’d turned to Obi-Wan; the man he trusted with his life, “Promise me.”

He noticed the hesitation in his former Master’s eyes as he looked to Master Windu. Obi-Wan looked back to Anakin and nodded, slowly. It was all he’d needed, and he told them.

Chapter Two

Anakin smiled at her, having sensed her leaving her room.

“Father,” she smiled, “you are awake.”

“Of course.” Came his response, “Your thoughts betray you, I could hear them when you were outside the door.”

Leia bristled, displeased with his prying into her mind, “You knew I was there, then.”

Anakin laughed and motioned for her to come to him. She hurried over to the chair he was sitting in and pulled herself up onto his lap. Anakin’s arm came around her as he pressed his lips to her forehead. “It’s late, Leia.”

“I had a dream,” she murmured.

Anakin Forced himself not to flinch as images of his mother and then Padmé flashed through his mind. “A dream? Did it frighten you?”

She hesitated a little before responding. “No. It was of Mother.” She felt Anakin tense, then added quickly, “Well, I think it was Mother.” She turned to look up at him, “Can you tell me of her, Father?”

Anakin looked at his daughter, his shields instinctively jamming into place. “Not tonight, Leia.”

“But…”

“Not tonight.” He repeated, standing with her on his hip. “I thought you had had a nightmare.”

“There was a Jedi,” she added, as he walked towards her room.

He frowned a little.

“He had a beard.”

Anakin visibly flinched as an image of Obi-Wan flashed through his mind.

Master Windu had barely reacted to the revelation. He’d just frozen, and time had seemed to freeze with him. However, Anakin wasn’t concerned with his ambiguous reaction; he’d looked to Obi-Wan. But his former Master’s expression had remained the same: that familiar impassive expression that he had grown up with. But his eyes had held a look that was unfamiliar; one he had been unprepared for. One that had portrayed anxiousness, uncertainty, fear.

“Anakin,” Master Windu had said sternly, “Wait in the Council chambers until we get back.”

“Wha…what? Master…”

“That’s an order, Anakin.”

“But-but-but the Chancellor –“ Anakin had spoken, desperately, as he thought of Padmé, “What are you doing to do?”

“Only as much as I have to.”

Anakin had turned to Obi-Wan then, his eyes pleading with him. His former Master’s brow had lowered in concern, before he reached out and squeezed his arm, “We shall do only what we must, my friend. I promise you.”

Anakin’s eyes had softened then, as did his resolve. He trusted him; his brother. Obi-Wan had given him one of his rare smiles before he had turned and left with Master Windu. But as he’d watched them walk away he did not see the man he trusted; he had seen two Jedi whose duty was to destroy the Sith. His trust had wavered at that moment. No one knew what they would have to do…

“Enough!”

Leia jumped at the severity of her father’s tone, as he Force pushed her bedroom door open. She lowered her eyes as he placed her on her bed. She spoke tentatively as he sat down on the bed next to her, “Why do you teach Luke the ways of the Jedi?”

“Because his destiny lies with the Force,” Anakin responded, uncertain if it was the truth.

“What about my destiny?” Leia frowned, “Am I not strong enough to be a Jedi?”

Anakin sighed. “We have discussed this, Leia. You should be grateful that you have the chance to live normally. The rules of the Jedi are not easy and you are too old to begin training now.”

“I am eight.” She protested. “You were nine when you began training, and you are the most powerful Jedi in the Universe.”

“That is untrue.” Anakin responded. “I was at a disadvantage having not been trained from birth. Luke will deal with the restraints of life as a Jedi far better than I did.”

“But I…”

“Be grateful,” her father interrupted her. He was becoming impatient. “It is a privilege that neither I nor your mother had.” He urged her to lie back and pulled the covers over her.

Leia attempted to hide her frustration from her father, having once again been unsuccessful. “I love you, Father. I am grateful that I am allowed to.” Luke had informed her of the Jedi’s rules against attachment.

Anakin hesitated as he looked at his daughter, before a small smile appeared, softening his features. “I love you, too, Leia.” He leaned over and pressed his lips to her forehead. “Now, sleep.” She giggled and nodded, as she slid further down into the bedclothes.

“Goodnight,” Leia called to Anakin as he left the room.

Anakin hadn’t used them. He hadn’t used a lightsaber since he had left the Jedi Order. Not since that night of Coruscant…

‘I can’t let her die.' It was all Anakin had been able to think of as he had hurried to Palpatine’s office. He had known what they would do. They would kill him, he’d known they would. They wouldn’t allow a Sith to go free, it would be unthinkable. The Council would be appalled.

He had reached the Chancellor’s office sooner than he could have imagined and by the time he had reached it, he had been determined to do everything in his power to prevent Palpatine’s death. He had needed him. He would have saved Padmé for him. He would have taught him how to save her; how to stop death.

As soon as he had entered the room, he had been met with the sight of two Jedi Masters lying at his feet – dead. The sound of sabers clashing together had brought his attention to the opposite side of the room, where he witnessed Obi-Wan and Master Windu in a duel against Palpatine. Palpatine! Anakin had watched in awe as the old man fought off the Jedi’s attacks with ease.

“Anakin!” Obi-Wan had called as soon as he was aware of his presence, “Anakin!” His voice had been full of desperation. Anakin had frowned at the distressed tone of his former Master, but he could do nothing. He couldn’t move from where he had been standing.

Palpatine had suddenly addressed him, “Anakin! Destroy these traitors!” He had looked to him, “I told you they would do this! This isn’t an arrest! It’s an assassination!”

Anakin had felt the anger rise within him; anger at the thought that Obi-Wan would have broken his trust in such a way. That he had broken his promise.

“Anakin! Come to your senses!” Obi-Wan’s voice had rung out, “He is a Sith Lord! He is deceiving you!”

“Only through me can you achieve the power to prevent death, Anakin.” Palpatine’s voice had rung out.

‘There is no death; there is the Force’.Anakin had closed his eyes, concentrating on the Code. ‘There is no hate; there is unity’.

“Anakin! This is your chance!” Master Windu’s voice had cried out to him before he was hurtled across the room.

Anakin’s eyes had snapped open in time to witness Palpatine’s Force throw. He had frowned and turned to look at Obi-Wan, who had begun fending off Palpatine’s attacks alone. Padmé. He had thought of her. It had been for her. He must save her. ‘There is no emotion; there is peace’.But there was emotion. In his life there had been. He loved Padmé, he loved…

“Anakin!” Obi-Wan’s voice had called out to him desperately, before a shattering cry erupted from the Jedi Master’s lips as Palpatine’s blade drove through him.

“Nooo!” Anakin had screamed then. Emotion; they had all flooded into him at that moment. Love for his Master; hate for the Sith before him; anger at himself; fear that he had acted too late. His sabre had come down on the old man, crashing against Palpatine’s lightsaber. With each hate-fuelled strike at the Sith a strangled cry escaped the young Knight’s lips; tears filled his eyes. He had felt Master Windu’s eyes on him. He’d hoped he could sense Obi-Wan’s also.

Anakin’s strikes had become stronger as more of his emotions poured into them. He’d struck him again, again, and again. A mixture of sounds had escaped him with each strike; a sob; a cry; a whimper. Padmé had left his thoughts. Obi-Wan was all he had through o, as his blade came down a final time and made contact with the Sith Lord before him. The man that had been his friend, his advisor had screamed, before his instant death.

But Anakin had turned from him by then. He had hurried to Obi-Wan…

Anakin’s palm curled around the handle of the lightsaber into a tight fist, as he thought of that night. He remembered the torment as he had sat by his former Master’s bedside, Obi-Wan’s hand clutched tightly in his hand. He remembered the crippling emotions that he had felt.

But then he refused to remember that now.

He refused to think of Obi-Wan Kenobi. He refused to think of Anakin Skywalker, Jedi Knight. He refused to remember that life.

Chapter Three

He smiled warmly at the woman before him. “Good morning, Tatia.”

She smiled, “Luke let me in. The twins are up very early this morning.”

“I am planning to take them up to the lakes for a few days.” He responded as he walked beside her towards the kitchen, “I believe they would enjoy spending time with their cousins.”

“Yes, of course,” Tatia agreed, following him into the room, “They always enjoy their visits.”

Anakin looked over at her, as he opened one of the cabinets, “Would you like to come?”

She looked at him in surprise before she gave him and smile and shook her head, “I believe it would be best for me to stay here. My father’s condition has not yet improved.”

Anakin frowned. “I thought the healer said he would be alright?” He pulled down a box of cereal from the cabinet. “Luke! Leia!”

“He should be,” Tatia responded as she opened another cabinet and handed two bowls to Anakin. “So long as his condition does not deteriorate.”

Anakin looked at her and just nodded sympathetically. He found it difficult comforting anyone other than his daughter. The others in his life he kept at arms distance; Luke for the obvious reason, Tatia for the less. The giggles of his children brought Anakin from his thoughts as they walked into the room. He smiled at them.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning, Father.”

“Good morning, Father.”

“Look, Tatia,” Leia hurried to her, clutching a doll with a porcelain face in her hands. “It was my mother’s.”

Tatia smiled at the young girl as she pushed the doll into her hands. “My, she is beautiful, isn’t she?” Leia nodded, smiling brightly. “What’s her name?”

“Maeona.” The young girl responded as Tatia gave the doll back to her.

“We’re going to the lakes today, Tatia,” Luke said, excitedly.

“Yes, your father was telling me.” She looked towards Anakin, noticing the consternation that filled his expression. “Anakin?”

“I sense something,” was his only response as he placed the cereal filled bowls on the counter and walked out the room.

“Father, what about breakfast?” Luke frowned, getting ready to follow him.

“Keep the children here, Tatia,” Anakin’s voice called back, as he left the house.

Obi-Wan’s expression remained impassive. That impassive look Anakin had grown to both love and hate. “I’m here to see you, Anakin.”

Anakin didn’t move.

What was he to do? He had knelt beside his Master and pulled Obi-Wan’s limp body into his arms. “Master,” he had whispered, then repeated, louder, “Master, please!”

Anakin’s heart had lurched as Obi-Wan’s eyes flickered open, resting on him for a moment. It had only been for a moment; then his eyes had flicked closed again. A sob had escaped him, but he’d known that he was still alive.

“Anakin.” He’d heard Master Windu’s voice behind him. Anakin had reached out into the Force and sensed that the Master Windu was not grievously wounded as he lifted Obi-Wan. He had ran, faster than he ever had before, to the Healers’ Wing.

“Healer Ferril!” Anakin had immediately addressed the first healer that he saw. “Quickly, you have to help him.” He hurried towards the Healer.

“Force…a lightsaber wound?” Healer Ferril had quickly pulled them into a nearby room. The other healer’s in the room hurried over.

“Yes.” Anakin had laid his former Master down on one of the beds, “Please. Please, you have to help him.” He’d felt several tears slipping down his cheek. ‘Force, I should have done something sooner.’

“The wound is very close to his heart.” The healer had informed him as the healers hurried about the room.

“Please.” No one had heard the desperate whisper that escaped Anakin’s lips.

“Anakin?” Obi-Wan was in front of him now. Anakin closed his eyes against the emotions that had risen from the memory. “Anakin, I need to speak with you, urgently.”

Anakin opened his eyes and looked at him, straight in the eyes. Obi-Wan startled somewhat at the sudden intensity of his best friend’s look but didn’t back down. They remained like that for a few moments, before he nodded slowly.

Obi-Wan stopped suddenly, in his tracks, as his eyes rested on the two children. He had never seen them, though he known about them. He’d always pictured them as babies, not the grown up youngling that they’d become. He watched as Anakin walked by them, placing a reassuring hand on Luke’s head as he did, and into one of the rooms to his left. Obi-Wan watched his retreating form, then looked back at the children as he followed his steps. He offered them a small smile, which the boy returned. The girl on the other hand only stared at him, cautiously, as he walked by them.

When he walked into the room, which he quickly realised was the living area, he saw Anakin standing at the window, staring out of it. He hesitated, not sure what to say. “Anakin…”

The young man turned to look at him. He had adopted an impassive expression; his expression. “What do you want, Obi-Wan?” He glowered at him, “You know I do not wish to see you.”

“You are angry. You still blame me.” It was a statement, not a question. One which didn’t need an answer.

“What do you think?” Anakin snapped, his impassive mask dropping to reveal his angered expression. “My wife is dead.”

“Father?” a quiet voice spoke from behind Obi-Wan. The Jedi Master moved to the side, revealing his daughter.

Anakin quickly attempted to soften his features. “Yes, Leia?”

“Tatia said she would take Luke and me to the river. May we go?”

Anakin hesitated for a moment. He could do with some time in private with Obi-Wan, yet he was reluctant to let the children go into the forest again. To the river, no less, without his supervision. He looked at Leia’s pleading expression. Tatia would take care of them. He gave her a small smile and nodded.

A wide smile broke out on the young girl’s face, brightening her features. “Thank you, Father!” She started towards him, but then hesitated, aware of the stranger’s eyes on her. She looked at him with a small frown, then looked back at her father and gave him another smile, before she turned and left the room.

Anakin looked after her for a moment. That little girl trusted no one. Again he was overcome with the thought that it should have been Leia he had trained. His eyes turned to Obi-Wan, who was watching him, his interest not hidden.

“Your children have grown significantly.”

“Yes.” Was his only response.

Another silence fell over them.

Anakin turned to look out the window, seeing his children leaving the house with Tatia. Luke looked back and smiled brightly at him, waving at the window. Anakin gave him a small smile and lifted his hand. He let it drop to his side as he watched the three figures walking away. His eyebrows lowered. He cared for Tatia; but it was Padmé who should be taking the children out. That was her place.

He turned towards Obi-Wan, anger once again marking his features, “What are you doing here Obi-Wan?”

“Something has happened.”

“A lot of things have happened.” Anakin snapped.

“The Jedi need you.”

A scoff escaped him, as he turned away. He turned back to him; away; then back again, quickly. “I have fulfilled the prophecy! I have destroyed the Sith!”

Obi-Wan was started at the volume of Anakin’s statement.

“I have fulfilled my destiny! What do you want from me?”

The anguish in Anakin’s tone caused Obi-Wan to frown with worry. He did not answer his question. He wondered if the young man even wanted him to. He sat down on the couch beside him.

Anakin struggled to control his emotions and quickly jammed his shields into place. He breathed deeply, trying the push thoughts of Padmé out of his head. His hands shook, as he looked over at Obi-Wan. Gone was the impassive look; in its place were sympathy and compassion. Anakin frowned and looked away from him, his emotions slowly coming under control, as he sat on the chair beside him. He looked to Obi-Wan, and with his eyes he demanded an explanation.

Obi-Wan looked at him for a moment before he spoke. “Palpatine was not the only Sith.”

Anakin looked startled at the revelation, “What?”

Obi-Wan lowered his eyes. “There was a purge. At the temple. A massacre.” He looked up at his former apprentice. “Many Jedi were killed, Anakin.”

Anakin trembled, somewhat. “How many?”

“Too many.”

“Who…who survived?” Anakin looked at him.

“Five Jedi Masters, including myself. Several younglings. Four padawans.”

Anakin frowned. “The Jedi Knights? They were all killed?”

“All except you,” came Obi-Wan’s response.

Anakin closed his eyes as he realised what was being asked of him. “I have not been a Jedi Knight for years.”

“We need you Anakin,” Obi-Wan’s voice hinted desperation. “The Sith will destroy what is left of the Jedi Order. Your destiny has not yet been fulfilled.”

“Destiny.” Anakin spat the word out as he stood. “Don’t talk to me about destiny.”

“We need to establish a New Order, Anakin.” His former Master stood. “We need all the Jedi we have.”

“I’m not a Jedi!” He shook his head, lowering his eyes. “I will fail.”

“You have never failed, Anakin…”

“I’ve failed everyone,” Anakin responded, his tone resolute, “Everyone but my children. I will not subject them to that life.”

“It is you we need, my friend.”

“Don’t call me that.” He paced the room.

“Anakin, we cannot destroy the Sith.” Obi-Wan walked to him. “Only you can do that. If you do nothing it will not just be the Jedi that are affected. You and your children will be affected as well. The Sith could overthrow the Republic. You cannot hide on Naboo forever.”

“I am not hiding.” Anakin snapped angrily. “I am protecting my children. There is too much anger in me to return to the order. Too much hate.”

“Then let go of your hate, Anakin.” Obi-Wan pleaded, not only for the sake of the Jedi but for himself. He knew it was he who Anakin’s hatred was directed towards. “You hate me, I know.”

Anakin looked at him for a moment, his eyes reflecting his bitterness. “You made so many promises. You promised me…”

“I’m sorry, Anakin.”

“Don’t tell me you’re sorry,” he whispered, turning away. “It’s too late for apologies. They change nothing.”

“I know you wish it was I who was dead.”

Anakin closed his eyes. Did he wish that? No. He just wished he would have stayed away. If only he had not been there…

“When I see what my living has done to you, sometimes I wish the same.”

Anakin’s heart dropped and his throat tightened. No, I don’t want you dead. I just wanted her to live. “Don’t say that. I don’t wish for that. I never have.”

Anakin had never been so scared in his life. The healers had done everything they could for him. Now it was up to Obi-Wan. The lightsaber had narrowly missed his heart and any major arteries, but he remained in critical condition. A tear had slipped down his cheek as he looked at him.

He had leant his forehead lightly against Obi-Wan’s head. “Master,” he’d whispered, “Master, please. Wake up.”

Obi-Wan had stirred slightly, but then became still once again.

A small sob had escaped the young man beside him, as he gripped Obi-Wan’s hand tightly in his. “Don’t die,” he’d whispered desperately. “Please, don’t die, Obi-Wan.” He hesitated for a moment, his hands shaking. “I love you, Master,” he added, in a whisper. “Please, don’t die.”

Anakin closed his eyes, forcing himself to control his emotions.

“Anakin,” Obi-Wan’s voice was quiet. “I need you.”

Anakin looked at him uncertainly. “Look at me, Obi-Wan,” he whispered. “I am no Jedi. I…I am nothing.”

“You are the Chosen One.” Obi-Wan said firmly. “You will bring balance and good to the galaxy. You will make it a safer place for your children, and for their children. You are not nothing, Anakin. You are everything.”

Anakin lowered his eyes.

“Search your feelings, Anakin.”

Anakin continued to stare at the ground. He thought of Luke, of Leia. He could make it safer for them. He could make it a better place. If he did nothing, they would come for Luke. He could spare him; if he ended it now. If he destroyed the Sith, Luke would never have to be a Jedi. He could live the life that he himself had always hoped for. He thought of Padmé. She would not sit back and do nothing. She would not hide away as he had.

But then he thought of himself. He was vulnerable to the Dark Side. He had attachments; his children. He could easily be turned. It could lead to more destruction.

Then he looked to Obi-Wan and thought of him. He had never asked anything of Anakin. Never before had Anakin seen the desperation and torment in Obi-Wan’s eyes.

He nodded, slowly. “Very well.”

Chapter Four

Luke tentatively walked into the living area, where Anakin and Obi-Wan were sitting in silence, having not said anything to one another for the past fifteen minutes. Anakin offered his son a small smile, “Luke,” he nodded to Obi-Wan, “This is Obi-Wan Kenobi.”

Obi-Wan looked to the young boy and afforded him one of his rare smiles. “Hello there.”

“Hello,” he looked at his father, then back to the man before him. “You’re a Jedi?”

Obi-Wan nodded. “I am.”

At that moment Leia walked into the room, with none of the timidity Luke had portrayed upon his own entrance a few minutes before, as Tatia followed her close behind. She immediately went to Anakin with a smile, Maeona clutched tightly under her arm. Anakin returned her smile and stood as she approached him, lifting the young girl into his arms.

“Did you enjoy your time at the river, Leia?”

“We were only there a few minutes,” the young girl responded, her disappointment evident in her tone.

Anakin smiled and pressed his lips to the side of her head before and then he placed the young girl back on the floor. He gently turned her by the shoulders so she was facing the stranger sitting opposite her. “Leia, this is Obi-Wan Kenobi.”

Leia eyed him.

Obi-Wan smiled at the young girl’s cautiousness. “Hello, Leia.”

“Hello,” she responded, turning as she felt Anakin’s hands leave her shoulders. He smiled at her and made his way towards Tatia.

“Can you two keep Obi-Wan company while I speak to Tatia?” he requested, looking at the twins.

Luke smiled and nodded. “Yes, father.” He turned to the man before them, eager to finally meet a Jedi. He pulled himself up onto the couch next to him, “My father was a Jedi.”

Obi-Wan smiled, “One of the best.”

Leia’s demeanour softened as she detected some fondness in the man’s tone towards her father. She approached the couch and pulled herself up to sit next to Luke.

“He’s training me.” Luke added.

The older Jedi looked surprised at this revelation. “He is?”

Luke nodded. “Since I was two. He said it would be best for me to begin my training early.”

Obi-Wan nodded, understanding Anakin’s decision. “Yes, he is right.”

“He refuses to train me.” Leia stated. “He says he wants me to live a normal life.” She shrugged, looking down at her feet as she swung her legs back and forth. “I’d rather be a Jedi.”

“Some.” Anakin responded as he poured himself some fruit juice. He raised the glass to his lips and took a long drink from it before lowering it back to the counter. “I have to go back.”

The woman in front of him looked startled. “Go back? Anakin…what about the children?”

Anakin lowered his eyes. “That’s…that’s what I wanted to talk to you about.” He took another drink from the glass before he spoke again. “I can’t bring them with me.”

Tatia’s eyes widened, her lips parting slightly in shock. “You can’t leave them, Anakin…”

“I have to.” he responded, firmly. He sighed and looked away, “I cannot subject them to that. To life as a Jedi…”

“But you are willing to deny them a father?” She interrupted him, a flash of anger shining in her eyes. “They love you, Anakin. You can’t abandon them, they have no mother.”

Anakin looked away, then back at her. “I…they have you. You are as close to a mother as they’ll ever have.”

Her eyes widened as she realised what he was asking. “Anakin…”

“I know it’s a lot to ask,” he quickly spoke, “But…but it’s true. You are the closest person they have to a mother.”

“What about they grandparents? Their aunt?”

“They see them very rarely.” Anakin responded. “They are more likely to be willing to stay if it is you they are being left with.”

Tatia stared at him for a moment, considering his request.

“I will come back.” He added. “It won’t be forever. It will just be until the New Order is established.”

She sighed, continuing to contemplate it. She loved the children as if they were her own. It was difficult for her not to. She smiled slightly as she remembered the first time she had met Anakin. They had newly moved into the village. Anakin had panicked after feeding the girl, Leia, as she found out soon after the incident, and she wouldn’t stop screaming for almost ten minutes afterwards.

Tatia had heard the screams outside and come into the house, uninvited no less, and had quickly informed the new father that she had to be burped after feeding. He’d been embarrassed; the healers had clearly taken care of that at the Jedi Temple. Since then, whenever there had been a matter concerning the twins he would always go to her for advice.

“Tatia?” Anakin’s voice broke into her thoughts.

She looked up at him, smiling slightly from the memory, and nodded. “I’ll take care of them. Until you come back.”

Anakin smiled at her, his relief showing. “Thank you. I will come back.”

“You can’t!” Luke’s eyes filled with tears, as he pleaded with his father. “Please, father…”

“Control your emotions, Luke.” Anakin spoke quietly.

Obi-Wan frowned, taking notice of his friend’s distant attitude with his son, as Anakin lightly placed his hand on Leia’s shoulder. She shrugged it off and glared at her father; pure, unhidden anger was evident in her eyes. Anakin lifted his head, his gaze resting on Luke.

Luke stared at the floor, concentrating on his breathing as he attempted to keep his tears from falling. He shouldn't be experiencing these emotions; he could never be a Jedi if he couldn’t learn to control them.

“We’re coming.” Leia spoke, a determination that belonged to her mother evident in her tone, “You can’t just leave us here like…like we’re nothing! You’re our father! You’re supposed to protect us!”

“That’s what I’m doing, Leia.” Anakin spoke quietly. “It is better this way…”

“No!” Leia shouted, then turned her accusing eyes on Obi-Wan. “This is your fault, isn’t it? You’re the reason he’s leaving!” She turned back to her father, speaking desperately, “Please! You can’t leave us, father!” She turned to her brother, “Luke!”

Luke jumped slightly and raised his eyes to his sister, then to his father, before they again rested on the floor.

“It won’t be for long,” Anakin reasoned, “Only a few months…”

“Months!” Leia gasped, “You’re leaving us for months?”

Anakin didn’t respond, looking instead to Tatia in desperation. She looked away from him, unwilling to offer him any assistance.

“You have been training me, Father.” Luke spoke up quietly, as he looked up, “I could…”

“No, Luke,” Anakin interrupted him, “If I am going, there is no need for you to go.”

Leia’s eyes flashed with anger as she shouted again, “How could you do this to us? Abandon us!” She hesitated for a moment, then added, knowing the effect it would have, “What would Mother think of you?”

It had been quiet, so quiet he had barely heard her, but the effect was the same. As if someone had just thrust a lightsaber into his chest. Anakin fell silent, his breathing slightly shaky, as he stared at his daughter. She met his stare with one of her own.

Padmé would never have left the children. Not even for the Republic.

Anakin let out a heavy sigh and looked towards Obi-Wan, who offered him a comforting smile. Anakin lowered his eyes, then looked back at his children. “Go…go get your things together.”

Luke’s head immediately jerked up, his wide eyes meeting with his father’s. Anakin offered him a small smile, as the boy stood and hurried out of the room. Anakin turned his eyes to look at his daughter, who walked past him, tracing Luke’s steps.

Tatia smiled at Anakin as he looked at her. He offered her a smile in return.

He had yet to ask Obi-Wan which of the Jedi Masters had survived. He struggled to control his bitterness towards his former Master. Obi-Wan had failed him, and he had failed Obi-Wan. He wondered why Obi-Wan had even thought to come for him.

Anakin had kept vigil at his Master’s side throughout the one and a half weeks he had been unconscious. He had been so exhausted. By that time, it had seemed almost impossible that he would ever wake. There had been nothing he could do. Nothing but sit and wait and watch, until something happened. But that day, something did happen.

A small groan had escaped Obi-Wan’s lips; so quiet Anakin was uncertain if he had truly heard it. It hadn’t been until a weak, unsteady hand travelled across the bedclothes towards him that he had been certain that his Master was finally awakening.

Anakin had been at his side in an instant, Obi-Wan’s hand clutched tightly in his own. “Master,” he’d breathed in relief. “Obi-Wan.”

“An…Anakin.” Obi-Wan had murmured, weakly, “An…akin?”

“I’m here, Master.” he had spoken, quietly, “I’m here. How are you feeling?”

Obi-Wan must have been too weak to respond verbally, as Anakin had received a response through their bond. I have been better. How long have I been here? .

“Almost a fortnight,” Anakin had responded, squeezing his hand, “I…I thought…”

Obi-Wan had squeezed his hand. What happened? Palpatine? .

“I killed him.”

You saved me, my friend? Obi-Wan had smiled, weakly, Thank you.

“Thank you?” Anakin had spoken in disbelief, “Of…of course I would have saved you!” Then blushed and added, “Though I didn’t, really. The healers did that.”

Obi-Wan had offered him another weak smile as his eyes drifted shut, then opened again. Anakin had touched his hand to his forehead, “You must rest, Master.” Then he had used to Force to assert his statement. Rest .

Obi-Wan hadn’t protested and allowed himself to drift back into unconsciousness. Anakin had sighed with relief as his throat tightened. Obi-Wan would be fine.

“Anakin?”

He turned to find Obi-Wan standing at the doorway of his bedchambers. He nodded, taking one last look at the landscape before he walked towards him. “Are the children ready?”

“Yes, they are saying goodbye to Tatia.” Obi-Wan responded as he turned to walk with Anakin down the corridor. A brief silence followed before he added, “I am truly grateful that you are coming back to the Capital, Anakin.”

His former apprentice only nodded, but after a moment he turned and smiled at him. Obi-Wan’s heart warmed at the genuine warmth in the young man’s smile.

“Children,” Anakin spoke, as he reached them. The twins pulled from their hug with Tatia to look at their father. He gave them a compassionate smile. “It’s time to go.” He looked up to the woman before him.

Obi-Wan, instantly realising Anakin wanted to say goodbye, placed a hand on each of the children’s shoulders. “Come children, I’ll take you to the ship.”

Their inquiring eyes turned to their father, who nodded his permission, and Obi-Wan led them from the house towards the ship.

Tatia rose lifted her eyes to Anakin and smiled affectionately at him, “Well…it looks like you’ve been drawn back into the life you swore you’d never go back to.”

Anakin smiled at her and nodded. “Looks like it.” He looked over at the ship as his children walked the ramp that led into it. He looked back at her and smiled. “Are you sure you don’t want to come?”

She smiled and shook her head. “No, Anakin. My father needs me here.”

He nodded his understanding. “Listen…thanks. For everything.” He looked around, the back at her. “With the children. They love you.”

She nodded, looking at the ship. “I love them too.”

“I know,” he nodded. He stepped forward, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “I will see you again.”

Tatia smiled. “Goodbye, Anakin.”

Anakin smiled in return. “Goodbye, Tatia.” He turned and walked towards the ship. Turning his back on Naboo. Facing his destiny.

Chapter Five

Leia only smiled in response to her brother before looking over towards where her father sat, clearly deep in thought. She turned to Luke, speaking quietly, “Something’s wrong with Father.”

‘When is there not?’ Luke thought, before his shields slammed into place. His father’s eyes rose to meet his and he felt his face flush as he realised his thoughts had been heard through their bond. He only hoped he had not heard Leia’s comment. He did not address his sister until Anakin looked away from him. “He doesn’t want to go back.”

“Why?”

“He hates the Jedi.” he whispered.

“That’s not true,” Leia hissed, glancing at her father as she said so and noting that the older Jedi was now sitting near him. “He wouldn’t want to help them if he hated them.”

Luke shrugged. “He might if it’s his destiny.”

Anakin shook his head. “Nothing.”

“Anakin…”

“It’s nothing.” Anakin interrupted him, and quicky changed the subject. “Where are the remaining Jedi?”

Obi-Wan sighed and leaned back on the seat. “Master Windu and Master Yoda shall greet us at the Capital…”

“They survived?” Anakin interrupted him, his surprise evident in his expression.

Obi-Wan smiled and nodded before he continued. “The other remaining Jedi are at the old Jedi Temple, on the planet of Dalai.”

His former apprentice frowned. “Another temple? It will be easy for us to be tracked down by the Sith. Should we not be somewhere more…concealed?”

Obi-Wan shook his head. “No, this temple has been deserted for thousands of years. As has the planet.” He turned to Anakin with a smirk. “If you had paid attention in your history classes when you were a Padawan, you would be aware of this.”

Anakin could feel the heat rising to his cheeks as he grinned in embarrassment.

“Master Kenobi, we are approaching the landing platform.” One of the pilots walked over to them.

Obi-Wan only nodded.

“How long will we remain on Coruscant?” Anakin asked, as he stood, “I don’t want Luke and Leia to be on this planet any longer than necessary.”

“We shall be leaving for Dalai tomorrow.” Obi-Wan answered as he also stood.

Anakin nodded as he called over to his children. “Luke, Leia.”

The twins started from their whisperings guiltily, wondering if their father had heard them. The two quickly approached him. Anakin’s hands came to rest on each of their shoulders as he guided them from the ship behind Obi-Wan, to the waiting Jedi Masters.

“Master Windu, Master Yoda.” Obi-Wan greeted them, and he stepped slightly to the side. With a slight smirk he added, “I believe you know Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker.”

Master Windu nodded uncertainly. “Skywalker.”

Anakin nodded in return. “Master Windu.” He looked down to Yoda. “Master Yoda.” He instinctively tightened his grip on his children’s shoulders as he added, “These are my children; Luke and Leia.”

The twins eyed the Masters with a mixture of curiousness and cautiousness. Leia eyed the green goblin creature before him, ‘That is a Jedi, yet my father refuses to train me?’

A grumble that resembled a laugh escaped the goblin. “Much like her father, this one is.”

Anakin smiled proudly, squeezing his daughter’s shoulder before he addressed them as they began to make their way into the Temple. “What is the current situation?”

“I am sure Obi-Wan has told you everything we know.” Master Windu responded.

“Sudden, this attack was.” Yoda added, “Dangerous, it is for us to be here.”

“Is it necessary for us to remain here until tomorrow?” Anakin questioned. “Would it not be better to leave immediately?”

“I agree.” Master Windu responded, surprising Anakin. “I too think we should leave immediately.”

“Yes.” Yoda nodded. “Nothing more, can we do. Leave within the next few hours, we shall.”

Anakin resisted the impulse to sigh in relief and offered a smile the Luke, who had turned to look up at him.

“Are your children trained in the ways of the Force, Anakin?” Master Windu looked to him.

“My son is.” Anakin answered somewhat tersely. “Though I would rather he did not become involved with this.”

“But, Father, I…” Luke quickly stopped himself when he noticed his father’s eyes darken. He looked down at the ground as they walked along.

“I could be a Jedi.” Leia spoke determinedly.

“Leia is not trained.” Anakin asserted.

“Jedi, your children will not become.” Master Yoda addressed Anakin. “Trained, they will not be. Know your feelings, I do.”

Anakin only nodded, hearing the disappointed sighs of his children at his side.

“Why can’t we stay here, Father?” Leia asked Anakin as she approached him.

“It’s not safe here,” Anakin responded. “Many Jedi were killed in this Temple. It would be unwise for us to remain here.”

“Who killed them?” Luke looked over from the fountains, curiously.

“The Sith,” Anakin stated as he approached him, “An enemy of the Jedi.”

“Are you going to kill them, Father?” Leia frowned as Anakin pulled her into his arms. “I heard you and Obi-Wan talking about destiny.”

Anakin smiled at her and kissed her on the cheek. “If it is my destiny, then I will. Destiny is something you cannot escape, my daughter.”

“What is our destiny?” Luke jumped down from the wall which surrounded the fountains, coming to his father’s side.

Anakin drew him close, placing a hand on the boy’s shoulder, “I don’t know. It is something that cannot be predicted.”

“How come you know yours?” he frowned, looking up at him.

Anakin placed Leia back on her feet, “It is in the prophecy. However, my destiny is just as uncertain as yours. It may not even be me who the prophecy was referring to.”

“If it is your destiny to destroy the Sith,” Leia peered up at him, “is that your purpose? For living, I mean.”

Anakin looked down at her and smiled. He knelt down before them, drawing them both directly in front of him. “My purpose is to protect you both. That is my reason for living.”

The twins smiled at him, delight shining in their eyes. Obi-Wan realised it must have been unusual for Anakin to make such declarations to them, as he had just done. He watched as Anakin drew the children into his arms.

Obi-Wan felt his own heart warm at the sight of the family. Not for the first time he wondered what it would be like to have a family. To allow himself to love as Anakin had done. But any feelings of love he had ever felt had been quickly nipped in the bud; locked away with all his other dangerous emotions. Anakin slowly looked up, his eyes meeting with him. His former apprentice stared at him for a moment, before he offered him a small smile. Obi-Wan returned his smile with one of his own. If only he had allowed himself to love.

He had hated that. Had hated the way the Council made him feel. He had hated them.

It was this hatred that pushed him closer to Palpatine. Anakin frowned. Perhaps the Chancellor had planned on that. Maybe he had known that the Council would not have granted him the rank and had used that to increase his frustration, his anger. “They don’t trust you, Anakin.” Palpatine’s statement came back to him, causing his breath to catch in his throat.

Palpatine must’ve known. He knew about Padmé. He knew his fear and had manipulated that. He frowned; perhaps Palpatine had manipulated everything. He had started the war; no he had started everything. Right back to the battle on Naboo. Anakin sunk down into one of the council chairs, as a sudden realisation came to him. He had done that to be appointed Supreme Chancellor.

Anakin closed his eyes, lowering his head. How could he have been so blind?

“You’re generalising. The Chancellor doesn’t appear to be corrupt.”

“Palpatine’s a politician. I’ve observed that he is very good at following the passions and prejudices of the Senators.”

“I think he’s a good man.”

Anakin shook his head, a short, bitter grunt of disgust at himself left him as he remember back to that conversation with Obi-Wan.

But Palpatine’s manipulations could only have gone so far. He may have manipulated Anakin, but it was he who almost gave into the Darkside. It was he who almost given in. Years of training about to be thrown away for Palpatine’s lies.

But he wasn’t sure if it was a lie. He would never know if Palpatine could have saved Padmé. And until he found out, that sense of bitterness towards the Jedi and Obi-Wan would remain. That small part of him that hated them all.

And it terrified him.

She cleared her throat when she stopped before him, “Excuse me, Sir?”

One eye opened, “Patience, you must have, young one.”

She frowned but obeyed him and sat down cross legged in front of him, imitating his position. She watched as the Jedi Master sighed as he ceased his meditation. He opened his eyes and looked at her, questioningly. “Something to say, you have, young Skywalker?”

She nodded, “Yes, Sir.” She looked towards the Temple, careful to ensure her father was not watching her, then turned back towards him, “I’d like to train to be a Jedi.”

“Know this, I do,” it replied. “But your father’s wishes, you must accept.”

Leia sighed in frustration. “He says it’s to protect me, but it’s not true. He just won’t let me train because I’m a girl and he thinks Luke is stronger than me.”

“Untrue, this is,” it spoke again. “Search your feelings, you must.”

“I don’t know how,” she snapped. “He has never taught me.”

It was silent for a few moments before he shook his head, “Much anger and impatience, I sense in you. Until you learn to control this, a Jedi you will never be.”

Her brow furrowed in annoyance but she said nothing more. She would be a Jedi.

“Anakin?”

He started at the sound of Obi-Wan’s voice, then silently berated himself for not being more aware of his surroundings. He quickly sat himself up right and nodded in greeting to Obi-Wan before he stood. “Where are the children?”

“They’re with Master Yoda.”

Anakin grinned as he thought of the twins conversing with the old Master, as he walked over to the window. He looked out at the city before him, ensuring his thoughts were shielded from his former Master.

“Anakin, something’s troubling you.” Obi-Wan stated as he approached the young man. Anakin tensed at the familiar statement, but made no reply. Obi-Wan looked down as he reached his side. He tentatively reached out, his hand resting on Anakin’s shoulder. Anakin turned towards his former Master at the touch.

“I’d like to think we were still friends,” Obi-Wan began. Anakin quickly detected the hope in the older man’s voice.

Anakin sighed. “Of course we’re still friends.” It wasn’t really a lie. His resentment, his hatred towards him was still there but it was for reasons Obi-Wan could not help. He was determined not to reveal these feelings towards him until he was sure that they were justified. He frowned a little. Even if Padme could have been saved, his hatred towards Obi-Wan would not be justified. It was he who had killed Palpatine. He could have just as easily joined him and allowed Obi-Wan to die.

But his hatred was not only because of that. It was because of his promise.

“No thank you, Healer Bache. I don’t have the appetite,” Obi-Wan had insisted, as he’d looked past her towards Anakin for help. Anakin’s grin only widened as he sat by the window.

The Healer had sighed and turned to look at Anakin. “I shall leave his lunch here, Anakin. Please see to it that he at least attempts to eat it.” Anakin only gave her a nod in return, as she’d left the room.

Obi-Wan’s attention had immediately went to his friend, his expression serious. “There’s something troubling you.”

Anakin frowned, his mental shields immediately jamming into place. “How…”

Obi-Wan only smiled at his confusion. “I have sensed it for a while now. I also know that you came here specifically to tell me.”

There had been a silence for a few moments. Anakin hadn’t been sure how to broach the problem. There had been so much he’d of needed to tell him. At least, that’s what he’d thought.

“This is about Padme, isn’t it?”

Anakin had started; it had been more of a statement than a question. He’d raised his eyes to his former master. “I…I have failed you, my Master.”

Obi-Wan’s expression hadn’t changed, so Anakin continued, “Padme and I…we…we’re married.”

Obi-Wan’s expression had changed at that, though he’d quickly looked away from Anakin as it did. A silence had filled the room following the statement. He’d heard Obi-Wan draw in a deep breath before he spoke again. “That’s what’s troubling you?” He’d looked towards him then.

Anakin had slowly shaken his head at that, “No. There’s more.” Obi-Wan had looked curious at that. “She’s pregnant.”

His former master’s eyes widened at that, before he leaned back on the headboard. “Well. That does create a problem.”

“That’s not it,” he’d sighed, as he looked away. “I…I’ve had visions.”

“Visions?”

“Yes,” he turned back to him. “Like the ones with my mother.”

Obi-Wan’s eyes had softened, as he spoke understandingly, “They’re about Padme?”

He’d nodded slowly, speaking quietly. “Yes. She…she dies in childbirth.”

Another silence.

“The Chancellor said he could help her.” Anakin had raised his eyes to Obi-Wan. “He…he said he knew a way.”

Obi-Wan had frowned but didn’t say anything. He’d looked down, then back at him. “I promise you, Anakin. She’s not going to die in childbirth.”

Anakin had only nodded, his eyes softening. “You’ll help us?”

The nod he had received in reply was all he needed to believe him.

Anakin quickly strengthened his shields as he looked back to Obi-Wan. He shook his head. “It’s nothing, Obi-Wan. Really.”

“Anakin, I can sense your distress,” the older man insisted. “I’ve felt it ever since we left Naboo.”

Anakin looked down, around the room. Anywhere but at Obi-Wan. But eventually his eyes met Obi-Wan’s as his resolved weakened, “I…I think I might fail.”

Obi-Wan’s brow furrowed at his revelation. “Fail?”

His former apprentice nodded. “I almost did before. I have no doubt I would have, had you not been there.”

The man before him shook his head, “No, Anakin. You won’t fail. The prophecy…”

“Don’t,” Anakin stopped him. “I’ve heard enough about the prophecy. I’ve heard enough about the ‘Chosen One’.” He looked away again, shifting, before he added, “Do you believe it?”

“Believe what?”

“That I am the Chosen One?”

Obi-Wan seemed to contemplate his question for a moment, before he slowly nodded. “Yes, I do, Anakin.”

“Why? No one else does.”

“Don’t you?”

Anakin looked uncertain. “I…I don’t know what I am.”

Obi-Wan only looked intently at him. But it wasn’t disapproval in his eyes, it was something else. Something he’d never seen before. He tentatively reached out through the Force, probing at his friend’s mind. He was met with a strong tightening of the other man’s shields, as Obi-Wan looked away from him.

Anakin frowned, making to speak.

“Father!”

He turned at the sound of his son’s voice. Luke smiled brightly at him. “It’s time to go.” Anakin smiled and nodded, as Luke turned and ran back down the corridor.

Anakin looked by to Obi-Wan, who smiled at him and nodded to the doorway. “Shall we?”

He smiled and nodded, as they made their way to the hangers.

Anakin only nodded in response and made his way past them towards the exit, where Obi-Wan and the other Jedi Masters were already departing. “Stay close to me.” Leia rolled her eyes and walked after him, Luke close by her side. As they reached his side, Anakin’s hands again came to rest on each of their shoulders, as they made their way towards the Old Temple.

“Where are the other Jedi, Father?” Luke asked, as he disappointedly noted that there was nobody there to meet them.

“Inside the Temple, I presume.” Anakin responded, not really sure himself why there had been no one to greet them.

“They’ll be in the Council Chambers,” Obi-Wan offered, slowly his pace in order to walk beside them.

“The Council Chambers?” Luke frowned, “Is there a Jedi Council in this Temple?”

“There will be,” Obi-Wan responded. “The Masters who survived the massacre will make up the new Council.”

Anakin bristled at that but said nothing, as they entered the small building. The Old Temple was far more humble than the one on Coruscant was, being less than half the size.

“What does this Temple contain?” Anakin looked over at Obi-Wan.

“There are several classrooms for the younglings, initiates and Padawans; a training area, a dining area, the Council Chambers and quarters for the Jedi who inhabit the Temple,” Obi-Wan responded. “All rather small in size.”

“So really, it’s just a smaller version of the Temple on Coruscant?” Anakin looked over to him.

“A much smaller version,” Obi-Wan responded. “Which is not a bad thing. It means we shall be well concealed during our time here.”

Anakin nodded his agreement as they continued the rest of the journey to the Council Chambers.

The door to the Chambers slid open with a hiss. Anakin could see several Jedi turn to look at the intruders as they entered the room. It was laid out differently from the one on Coruscant. Eight stone seats surrounded a large stone surface. Anakin frowned, wondering if it was possible for anyone to ‘come before’ the Council, what with the way the seats had been situated. It seemed that such an individual would have to stand upon the surface to address them.

The other Jedi made their way over to greet them. A female, whom Anakin remembered from his years as a Padawan, smiled at Master Windu. “Masters, I am glad you have arrived safely.”

Master Windu smiled and nodded, turning to Anakin. “Master Viharu, I believe you know Master Kenobi and Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker.”

She smiled at them and nodded her greeting to them, casting a brief, curious glance over the children at the younger Jedi’s side.

“These are my children, Luke and Leia,” Anakin offered, and once again he instinctively squeezed their shoulders as he introduced them.

She smiled at them. “Welcome to the Temple, young Skywalkers.”

They smiled in return but made no sound.

“Anakin, this Master Evian Kanjin,” Master Windu introduced another Jedi who approached them. Anakin was embarrassed to realise he did not recognise the Jedi Master at all. He was rather short; shorter than Obi-Wan, maybe, which was surprising as the Master was a cerean.

Anakin nodded towards the Jedi, offering him a smile.

“As you see, there are very few Jedi who survived the Sith’s attacks,” Master Kanjin addressed him, looking towards the younger ones in the room. Anakin looked over to them, mentally counting the children: four Padawans, thirteen younglings. He felt some sort of reassurance to see that a good number of children had survived.

“Are your children trained in the ways of the Force?” Master Viharu addressed looked towards Anakin.

Anakin bristled again. “My son has been trained, but I would rather he does not become involved.”

His response was met with a frown from the two Masters, but he received no verbal response to his statement.

“Perhaps we should allocate ourselves to our sleeping quarters,” Master Windu broke the silence.

“Yes,” Master Yoda spoke for the first time. “Then discuss the situation at hand, we shall.”

“Generally, a sleeping quarter is shared by Master and Padawan,” Obi-Wan responded.

Anakin sighed and shook his head, looking up and down the corridor. “Luke and Leia will have to share a bed.”

“Is that appropriate at their age, Anakin?” Obi-Wan frowned.

Anakin rolled his eyes. “They are only eight standard years old, Obi-Wan.”

“You shall have to take on a Padawan at some point,” his former Master pointed out, the added, “One of the twins is welcome to stay in my quarters with me.”

Anakin seemed to ponder this for a moment, then shook his head. “Thank you. But I’d rather they were close to me.”

Obi-Wan nodded. “That is understandable.”

Obi-Wan watched as Anakin walked into the quarters nearest them, crossing his arms across his chest as he did so. A small smile softened his features as he thought about his former apprentice. He had missed him during his absence from his life. ‘Miss him, do not.’ had been Master Yoda’s advice to him. But the pain of Anakin’s leaving had been almost too raw for Obi-Wan to handle in the earlier days. How could he not have missed him? It had taken months of frequent, deep meditation for him to finally come to terms with his absence. It had taken longer for him to accept that Anakin more than likely hated him.

But even after Obi-Wan had accepted this, an emptiness had remained within him. One he had found himself desperate to fill. But it had not been filled in those eight years Anakin had been gone. The feeling of emptiness had not left him until now, when Anakin had finally come back with him. The emptiness was filled, but now Obi-Wan wasn’t sure if this was a good thing. Perhaps the emptiness he had felt was what all Jedi should feel.

He looked up when Anakin walked back out into the corridor, offering him a smile as he did so. Obi-Wan was certain he should not be feeling this way.

Anakin looked towards the quarters facing him and nodded. “The twins and I shall take this one.”

“I shall be next to you,” Obi-Wan responded before he started down the corridor. “We had better get back to the Council Chambers.”

“That is not possible.” Anakin responded, “As Palpatine is no longer in control of the Senate, the Republic is no longer under the Sith’s influence.”

“Search your feelings, Skywalker, the dark side is everywhere,” came Master Kanjin’s response.

“Whether or not the Republic is under threat, I agree that it is essential that this New Order is established,” Master Windu said. “Four of us must take it upon ourselves to take one of the Padawans as our own and train them.”

“Agree, I do,” Master Yoda spoke up, “Also educators within the Temple, we must all become.”

“Educators?” Obi-Wan almost recoiled at the thought. “We are all to become teachers to the younglings?”

“And the Padawans,” Master Viharu added.

“There is also the matter of the Jedi Council,” Master Kanjin spoke up.

“I believe under the circumstances, the selecting of the Jedi to be on the Council has already been done,” Master Windu responded. “All of the Jedi Masters who survived the massacre shall make up the Jedi Council.”

Anakin lowered his eyes.

“Agree with Master Kenobi, I do,” Master Yoda said. “That promoted to the rank of Master, Skywalker should be.”

Anakin’s head snapped up at that. He looked to Master Yoda with wide eyes, before he turned his head to look at the smiling expression of Obi-Wan. There were nods of agreement between the other Jedi in the room, as Anakin smiled his thanks to his friend.

“Because our father is a Jedi,” Leia responded, her anger at the question evident in her tone.

One of the older younglings approached them. “You shouldn’t be here if you’re not Jedi. The Masters have enough problems without kids running around.”

Leia’s eyes narrowed. “My father is the most powerful Jedi ever. I think that gives us the right to be here.”

The youngling snorted, “Yeah, the great, all-powerful Anakin Skywalker.” He leaned closer. “Did you know he once almost turned?”

Luke looked up at that in shock. Leia only frowned in confusion.

“Taiven, stop it. You should not be acting this way,” a female Padawan approached, though the youngling took no notice of it.

“You’re lying.” Luke stood from his seated position with another youngling, “My father would never turn.”

“Don’t be so sure about that,” the Togruta narrowed his eyes, before turning away from them.

Luke frowned, realising he was shaking as the Padawan walked away from them. He looked over at Leia, who approached him.

“I don’t think I’m going to like it here,” she whispered.

Luke shook his head, eying the Jedi in the room. “Me neither.”