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rose-sophia-isabella-rogers · 8 days ago

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Written in the Stars: Chapter VIII - The Queen and the King

Chapter Summary: You do your best to rule the planet in the stead of your parents. Anakin supports you, but his absence is not easy. And not seen good by your people. Still, he keeps his promise to help you as much as he can. And one day it's your turn to help, as Ahsoka is framed for an attack on the Temple. Can you navigate your new duties? And is Ahsoka going to be all right?

Pairing: Anakin Skywalker/Reader

Characters: Anakin Skywalker, Reader, C-3PO, Ahsoka Tano, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda, Mace Windu, Sheev Palpatine, Wilhuff Tarkin, Barriss Offee

Word Count: 7616

A/N: Inspired by prompt: https://pl.pinterest.com/pin/207306389090692187/ This chapter also contains a bit of plot and dialogues from 20 episode of 5 season of "The Clone Wars". Gif is not mine. Enjoy!

Tag list (let me know if you want to be added or removed):

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@marrymonrich

@wonderland2425

@chelseyyouraverageluigi

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@drinix

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After the festivities ends it is time to return to reality. And the reality is that your father is dead and everything he was doing, now you must do. Sure, you assisted and helped him, but still most of the things he was doing. And the most difficult ones as well.

'Is everything all right, Your Majesty?' Lanash asks when she comes to your office with tea. You have papers spread on your desk, as well as some datapads and screens. You look absolutely lost to your maid.

'I am considering abdicating and running away,' you answer after a beat. Lanash rolls her eyes. She places the tea on a free spot on the desk.

'Sooner the Chancellor will abdicate,' she snorts. You can't resist a small amused smile.

'That day I would like to see,' you sigh. You put away the papers in your hands and lean back against your chair. Your maid watches you with worry.

'I always knew being a queen is hard,' you say suddenly. 'But nothing could have prepared me for this. My father tried. But we had too little time together.'

Your eyes become distant. Lanash gives you a compassionate look. You stare in the distance for some time. Finally, you send your maid a sad smile and take a sip of your tea.

'Any more condolences?' you ask.

'A few,' she admits. 'But Threepio and I have it handled.'

'Thank you,' you say softly. 'It means a lot, you two doing it.'

'We wish to lighten your burden any way we can,' she assures you.

'If I ask you to get rid of some annoying politicians, will you do it?'

'Give us the names.'

'Lanash…'

'I'm serious. They won't find the bodies.'

'I was joking.'

'Well, I was not.'

You look at each other and burst out laughing. You shake your head. You take another sip of your tea and pick up a datapad. You got a new message. You check the sender and wince.

'Who is it?' your maid asks.

'It's from the Chancellor's office,' you sigh and put away the tablet. 'I need to be in a better mood for this.'

'I still don't understand why Senator Amidala and Ge- King Anakin insists he's a good person,' Lanash says. You stare at her. You blink.

'What?' she asks.

'It will take some time getting used to hearing everyone call him that,' you explain.

'Oh, it will be a challenge,' she agrees. 'Same as remembering to call him "General Skywalker" when talking to someone who's not aware of your relationship.'

You become sad again. She curses herself.

'Soon, my lady,' she assures you.

'How soon?' you ask. 'I'm married, yet I barely see my husband. I hate it. I miss him so much…'

'And he misses you just the same,' she says softly. 'You must trust that there will come time when you're together all the time.'

You sigh after a beat and take a sip of your tea. You return to your work without a word. Lanash curtsies to you and leaves you alone.

Later that day you have a meeting of the council. You want to scream very quickly.

'We cannot raise the taxes,' you repeat again. You lost the count of how many times you said that. You force yourself to breathe deeply.

'Your Majesty, we don't want to do this either,' the Minister of Treasury says. 'But after the attack, we need to rebuild. Our buildings, our army, our supplies… And we need credits for that. We can hardly borrow them from another planet.'

'Our planet has been rich for generations,' you say, clenching your fist. 'We were the ones who were lending credits. We were prepared for such occasion. Surely, we didn't suddenly become poor. I know the state of our treasury, Minister.'

'We are not poor, Your Majesty, no,' he says slowly, as to a child. 'But we can't possibly use all that we have. We must use some, but also ask people to do it as well.'

'The credits we have, have come mostly from them,' you say, getting more annoyed with every second. 'So, I dare say they already did they part. How about you lot throw some of your credits to help the rebuild?'

Everyone looks around, uncomfortable. Anger rises in you. The Minister of Defense clears his throat and leans forward.

'We've already gave our share as well, Your Majesty,' he says. 'Like my colleague already said, we don't want to do this, but when the time comes, the people must-'

'Oh, you all want to do this, do not lie to me,' you growl, slamming your fist on the table. Everyone jumps, startled. C-3PO and Lanash, who are standing by the door, exchange a worried look.

'When people pay taxes, some of the credits will go to your pockets, so you could afford leaving in your luxurious mansions,' you say, fuming. 'So, don't you dare telling me you don't want this and that you want to rebuild our city.'

You take in a few calming breaths. You stare at your council coldly.

'The law says that some credits from taxes go as your… pension,' you say. 'The rule was made, so the noble houses of Luth have taken the citizens into their protection. But in my opinion, you're taking too many. Therefore, you can expect a correction to this law by the end of the month. Once it will become legally binding, we will have credits for the rebuild, without taking them from the citizens.'

'No, you will be taking it from us,' the Minister of Sport says. You turn your icy gaze to him.

'But you still will have enough to live, while my people would have not,' you say. 'I think that's fair. You're dismissed.'

You stand up and everyone else must to. You turn and leave the room in a hurry. Your friends hurry after you.

A moment later you burst into your chambers, taking off the less official crown from your head. You throw it on the bed. Lanash stares at it, aghast. She rushes to it to check it over.

'I need to kick something,' you huff. 'Or stab. Can I stab someone?'

'I'm afraid not, Your Majesty,' C-3PO says, anxious. Just then your communicator beeps. You answer the call and are met with Anakin's hologram.

'Oh, thank goodness,' the droid says, relieved. 'You will be calm in no time, Your Majesty.'

'What happened?' Skywalker asks, raising an eyebrow, obviously hearing Threepio. You roll your eyes.

'I just had a meeting with my council,' you explain and huff. 'A bunch of pompous imbeciles.'

'What did they do this time?' your husband asks, remembering your stories about them from back when you were a princess.

'They decided we need to raise taxes to rebuild after the attack,' you answer. The Jedi frowns.

'But… aren't you a rich planet?' he asks.

'Exactly!' you exclaim. 'We have plenty of credits! We were prepared! But no, we need more, because we can't have an empty treasury… as if we are threatened by it! No, they just want to stuff their pockets. And they want to use the fact I'm young and was coronated after a crisis. They treat me like an uneducated child. I want to behead them all!'

'Can you do that?' Anakin asks, interested. You pause and look at C-3PO.

'Can I?' you ask.

'Ah, there is a law allowing the monarch to behead the enemies of the planet, but it hasn't been used in over four hundred years,' the droid answers.

'But it's an option, good,' you say, satisfied. 'For now, I've settled with telling them I'm changing the law. Less money from the taxes will be going to their pockets.'

'I don't think it was wise, Your Majesty,' Lanash says, walking to you with a worried expression. 'You need their support.'

'Their support is nothing compared to the support of the people,' you say and look at her. 'And who do you think the people will support? The person who wants to take money from the rich, so they don't have to give theirs, or people who want them to pay more?'

'That is a fair point,' your maid admits.

'Someone is very clever,' Skywalker chuckles. 'I remember you telling me they earn too much and how you want to change the law. And since they've threatened to raise taxes…'

'The people will gladly agree with my correction,' you say and beam at him. 'Don't you have a clever wife?'

'The cleverest I could have hoped for,' he says softly, looking at you with love. You continue to chat about more pleasant topics until he has to go. When you go to the bathroom to finish the first day of your rule with a bath, you're much calmer, just as C-3PO predicted.

One day, a few weeks after your coronation, you're invited to the Coruscant to celebrate the Chancellor's birthday. You tried to find an excuse not to come. But when Anakin informed you that he's going to be there, you decided to make this sacrifice.

And so here you are, entering your apartment with an escort larger than ever. You wait for your guards to perform a security sweep, as you get a call.

'Ahsoka!' you say, seeing a hologram of your Torgutan friend. 'What a surprise! How can I help you?'

'Obi-Wan and SkyGuy had a fight,' she sighs and looks at you pleadingly.

'You want me to help you reconcile them,' you guess.

'Pleeeease,' she begs you. You nod.

'Of course,' you agree without hesitation. She beams at you.

'You go to Anakin and I go to Obi-Wan?' she suggests. You think for a moment. You shake your head.

'I'll handle Obi-Wan,' you decide, surprising her. 'You go to your master.'

'Okay,' she agrees, not really sure about it. But she tells you where you can find Kenobi and you head that way. You find him in the garden of the Jedi Temple, meditating.

'Your Majesty, what a surprise,' he says, sensing your arrival. He opens his eyes and stands up. You give him a stern look.

'I'm still me, so call me by my name,' you say. He chuckles and opens his arms. You hug briefly and then the Jedi proposes a stroll. You agree and follow him. For a moment you walk in silence.

'Did Anakin send you?' he asks at last.

'Ahsoka did,' you correct him. 'She said you had a fight.'

'Did she tell you what it was about?' he asks.

'No, but it doesn't matter,' you deny. 'I'm not here to tell you who's right. I'm here to tell you there is too much going on for you to have fights. You never know when it's the last time you see the person you're at odds with.'

He glances at you. You have a serious expression on your face. His softens.

'How are you holding up?' he asks gently. You elbow him to the side.

'Don't change the subject,' you say sternly. 'You can play my therapist after we make things right between you and Anakin.'

'It's not that simple,' he sighs.

'Sure is,' you disagree. 'Do you care about him?'

'Of course, I do,' he answers. 'He's… he's like a brother to me.'

'Then go to him and tell him your friendship is more important than this feud.'

'… It was about the Chancellor.'

'Oh?'

'I don't trust him. We… were talking about something, I don't really remember what exactly. Suddenly we were talking about the Chancellor and his last decisions. I disagree with some of them. Anakin started to defend him. He got mad when I tried to show him my point of view.'

'… I think I made a good decision coming to you and sending Ahsoka to him.'

'How so?'

'I… I'm not exactly fond of Palpatine. Anakin and I already argued about it a few times. This time we would as well, probably.'

'I see. Well, we had some disagreements about him as well. But this time it seems more serious. How… how you make up after it?'

Your brain suggests making out instead of up and your feel your cheeks reddening. Because, to be honest, your arguments about the Chancellor end that way.

'We agree to disagree,' you answer at last. 'But it sounds more serious. Hm…'

You ponder the problem. What would make your husband understand Kenobi is not against him nor his friendship with Palpatine (although you're not sure about the latter)?

'Tell him… you value his opinion,' you say slowly. 'And you don't want to stand in the way of his friendship with the Chancellor. That you want to believe he's a good man and wants to do what's best for the Republic. But you'd also like to him to see your point of view as well. That Palpatine is allowing himself for too much and you must observe his next actions, just to be sure he's heart is still at the right place.'

'Do you think it's enough?' he asks.

'Well, no, he has to say his part as well,' you answer. 'You can't be the only one explaining yourself. But you may also add that part about him being like a brother to you. Hug would be good, too.'

'All right,' he says after a moment and smiles at you. 'Let's give it a go.'

You return to the Temple. You walk through the corridors, looking for Skywalker. You find him a few minutes later, heading your way with Ahsoka. You all stop. The men look unsure, nervous. Finally, they walk to each other. They head to the side.

You and Tano walk to each other. You observe in silence the talking men. Both are serious but also emotional. Vulnerable, even. Obi-Wan puts his hand on Anakin's shoulder at some point, telling him something softly. Your husband pursues his lips and you think you see his eyes shining. He hangs his head and says something. Kenobi smiles and the men hug.

'Thank the Force,' your Torgutan friends sighs. You look at each other and smile. You squeeze her hand, congratulating her on a job well done.

'SkyGuy really didn't like to be at odds with Obi-Wan,' she says.

'Same with Obi-Wan,' you say. 'I'm glad all is well between them.'

The men walk to you. Skywalker's eyes light up when you meet his gaze. Your heart skips a beat. You force yourself to remain calm, not wanting to compromise yourself in front of Kenobi.

'Thank you, ladies, for helping two grown men to solve their dispute,' the older Jedi says, his eyes twinkling.

'If not for the women, the universe would be already long gone, because men would either not talk to each other or were constantly fighting with each other,' you say. 'That's what my mom used to say.'

You smile but it doesn't reach your eyes. Your companions at once become serious.

'Is it time for me to be your therapist?' Obi-Wan asks. The other two gives him a confused look.

'Well, I promised you, didn't I?' you chuckle. 'You can all be if you want.'

You head to a bench. Others sit beside you, with men on your sides and Ahsoka next to her master. You're silent for a moment.

'It's not easy,' you finally say. 'Every day, before I open my eyes, I hope it was just a bad dream and I'm still a princess. Reality disappoints me the same each morning.'

Your husband hesitantly takes your hand and squeezes it. You give him a small smile.

'There are moments… when I want to cry,' you admit. 'I do sometimes. When I'm already in bed. I miss them a lot. It's hard… being alone. I know I have Lanash, C-3PO, Shmi and her family- Your mother has been wonderful to me for the past month, Anakin, truly. It's easier with her.'

'I'm happy to hear that,' Skywalker says, smiling.

'Anyway,' you go on, 'while I know I have them… I still feel alone. But I press on. I have my duties. People I care about. I try to be strong for them, while allowing myself to grief as well.'

'You're very brave, [Y/N],' Obi-Wan says after a minute. 'You are… an inspiration for many. Just don't take too much on yourself. Ask for help when you need it. Take a break when it's too much. And remember you'll always have friends in us and can call for us anytime.'

'Even if I just really need a hug?' you ask with tears in your eyes.

'Even if it's for a hug,' Kenobi confirms. You sniff.

'I think I need one right now,' you admit. Your friends quickly enwrap you in their arms. That's how Yoda and Windu find you a few minutes later. Sitting on a bench, crying, and hugged by people most precious to you. They may be crying as well.

In the evening it's time for celebrations. The whole city is on the streets, partying in the name of their beloved Chancellor. You watch the parade with a neutral expression, although you want to roll your eyes every few minutes. What helps, is that Anakin is on the other side of the street. You keep stealing glances at each other. Very heated and loving glances. They make you want to run with him and lock him in your chamber for the whole night. But you must endure.

'I'm very happy you made time for me, Your Majesty,' Palpatine says later, when you and some others are in his apartment for a private celebration. You force a smile.

'Of course,' you say and meet Anakin's eyes. 'I wouldn't miss it for nothing in the world.'

'I'm glad to hear that,' the Chancellor chuckles, while Skywalker smirks, knowing what you actually meant. 'I'm just sad you're leaving in the morning.'

'Alas, duties call,' you say, putting away your glass of champagne. 'As a queen I can spend less time outside my planet. Speaking off, I have to retire if I am to get up. My security insists everything goes according to plan. Once again happy birthday, Chancellor. Have a good night.'

Palpatine thanks you for coming once again and bids you goodnight. You catch your husband's eyes again and leave the apartment. You hurry away as fast as you can.

Not long after you take off all your accessories in your apartment, Anakin shows up. The doors barely close after Lanash when he has you in his arms. You kiss passionately and you sigh softly, content.

'I was waiting for that whole day…' he whispers and starts kissing your jaw, your neck. 'I couldn't wait for it all to be over… so I could have you all to myself…'

'Now you do,' you gasp. 'All yours. Please, my phoenix…'

He groans and quickly gets rid of your clothes. Once you're both naked, he takes you to the bed where you make love for hours. You both know that in the morning you'll be separated again. But for now, for these few hours… you're together again.

You're sitting on your balcony by your table, drinking tea. Well, the tea is in a cup but you haven't lift it to your lips so far. You're just staring at the setting sun, lost in thoughts. When C-3PO arrives and finds you like it, he's quite worried.

'Your Majesty, you have a call,' he informs you.

'Tell them to call tomorrow,' you say, not looking away from the sun.

'It's Master Anakin,' he explains. You turn your head to him. He waits expectantly. You sigh.

'Bring it here,' you say. The droid happily trots back inside, just to return a moment later with your communicator, a hologram of your husband shooting out of it.

'I'm glad I'm the exception to the rule of no more calls today,' he jokes as you take the communicator. You manage a weak smile.

'You're an exception to most rules,' you explain. He laughs. But when you don't join in and he notices your expression, he frowns.

'What is it?' he asks. You shake your head.

'Nothing, I'm just tired,' you say. He gives you a dubious look.

'I know your tired face,' he says. 'That's not it. Tell me what's wrong.'

'The Day of All Gods is coming,' you say after a moment. 'There's lot to do.'

'It's the biggest celebration of the year on the planet, yes?' he asks. You smile.

'You did your homework, I see,' you notice. He grins.

'Hey, I must know the culture of my people,' he points out. You feel all warm inside at that. His people. He feels a part of your planet and it makes you happy.

'The planet is also going to be closed for everyone from outside, yes?' he suddenly asks.

'Yes,' you confirm, nodding. 'Every year we have protests from all the tourists that they have to leave our planet for a day. Even though they're informed about it well in advance.'

'People will always complain about something,' he says.

'Yeah,' you sigh. He looks closely at you.

'There's something else, isn't there?' he guesses. 'Tell me. Is it the council again?'

You look away. He nods, satisfied.

'It is,' he says. 'What did they do this time? Or said?'

'Don't worry about it,' you say, shaking your head.

'[Y/N],' he says sternly but softly. 'I'm your husband. And a ruler of Luth as well. Let me share your burdens.'

'You're already busy enough with the war and the Jedi Order,' you say. 'There's no need-'

'There is,' he insists. 'I vowed to help you. To protect our people. Tell me what's troubling you. Please.'

Okay, that does it. That word and the pleading tone of his voice.

'The council is very displeased that you won't be attending the celebrations,' you explain. 'They understand that you're a Jedi, a general on war and that our relationship and your coronation are a secret. But they still believe you should… "fulfill at least some of your duties and be present at the parade". As they said.'

'I imagine you got pissed at them,' he says, frowning.

'I tried to explain it to them calmly,' you answer. 'They're not convinced.'

'Usually you're not bothered,' he points out. 'What else is there?'

'People agree with the Council,' Threepio explains when you don't. You glare at him. He quickly disappears.

'What?' Anakin asks, surprised. You sigh.

'Some people are not happy you're so rarely here and consult with me only via calls,' you say. 'They all understood the situation when we were getting married and then crowned, but somehow, they believed you'll be here more often. I don't blame you and don't expect more from you. I'll deal with them. Just…'

'It's hard,' he finishes quietly. You nod and force a smile.

'We'll be fine,' you say. 'You go and win this war, so you could spend more time with me.'

'Yeah, I will do that,' he says, not at all enthusiastic. 'Sleep well. Can't wait to see you again.'

'Anakin-' you start.

'I'm fine,' he interrupts you, this time him being the one to forcing a smile. 'Sweet dreams.'

'Goodnight…' you say quietly and end the call. You glare at C-3PO, who's back at your side.

'And why did you do that?' you ask. Suddenly, he's gone again. Look at that. He can be fast when he wants to.

The Day of All the Gods arrives. You're about to step on the platform that's a part of the parade. The Council is by your side, still complaining your husband isn't present after all. You barely resist to strangle them.

'The people will wonder why our benevolent king couldn't find the time to show up-' the Minister of Education System starts.

'Here!' a voice suddenly exclaims, causing you all to jump. 'I'm here!'

You turn, surprised, and see Anakin rushing to you, dressed in ceremonial robes. He stops by you, panting.

'Sorry, I'm late,' he says once he catches his breath. 'I had some trouble getting through the blockade. Great security, guys. I'm proud of you.'

'Y-your Majesty, you're… here,' stammers the Minister of Defense. Skywalker grins at you.

'I couldn't possibly miss the biggest celebration on our planet,' he says. 'But someone has to tell me what exactly am I supposed to do.'

'Oh, you just have to stand, look pretty and wave,' Lanash quickly puts in. 'No doubt you can do that.'

'Especially the part about looking pretty,' you say, checking him out. He looks really good in that clothes. He smiles cheekily at you.

'All right, people!' your maid says, clapping her hands. 'We're about to set off in a few minutes! Places!'

Everyone quickly moves to take their positions. The Council does it with a non-existent enthusiasm. You grab the Jedi's hand and drag him toward your platform. You quickly climb on it and take places.

'I can't believe you're here,' you murmur. He squeezes your hand.

'I wasn't raised to be a king,' he says quietly after a moment. 'I know I have a lot to learn. I don't want you to go easy on me, because our relationship is a secret and I'm a Jedi. I'm your husband and the king of this planet. If there's something that people expect me to do, just tell me. I'll try to make it happen. Okay?'

'Okay,' you whisper, smiling. He smiles as well. Then, your platform starts moving and a few minutes later you're on the street. People cheer loudly, but when they notice who's by your side, they cheer even louder. You both laugh and start waving.

'You're more popular than I am,' you joke.

'They have you every day, while my presence is a rare gift,' he teases. You snort and quickly cover your mouth with your hand. He chuckles and looks at your people. His people. They're his people as well now. It causes him to grin.

'So, there's the parade,' he says. 'What's next?'

'We ride all the way to the Temple of All Goods,' you explain. 'There, we make symbolic sacrifice. After that we party. One time in a year when we party in a temple.'

'Now, I definitely couldn't miss that,' he says. 'How long do we have to wave?'

'All the way to the temple,' you answer and his smile falls. 'Good thing you spend your days waving lightsaber around.'

At last, you arrive at the temple. You make a symbolic sacrifice, listen to some speeches, make one and declare it's time to party. Everyone is in good spirits. And Anakin is surprised how wild the party becomes. After a few hours he sneaks outside and takes you with him.

'I have something for you,' he says and gives you a small present. You give him a confused look as you take it.

'What?' he asks. 'Can't a husband give presents to his wife?'

You smile and shake your head. You open the present and find a small… thing.

'It's a communicator,' he explains. 'A special commission. I have another one. They're linked. You can hide it on your body and no one will detect it. So, if you get kidnapped again, you can use it and I'll come to rescue you.'

'I'd be offended if it wasn't very probable,' you say after a beat and smile. 'Thank you.'

'I just wish I could be with you to prevent that kind of things from happening,' he says, caressing your cheek.

'Soon,' you say, touching his hand. 'I can feel it.'

He smiles and leans down to kiss you. It feels good to kiss you in public, without a fear of someone seeing it. Here, on this day, you don't have to pretend. And he's going to use every second of it he can.

The night is obviously very passionate. You fall asleep very late. Anakin believes you're going to get up late. But when he wakes up, you're no longer in bed. He sighs and lifts himself up. At that moment you enter the room, staring at your datapad with an annoyed look.

'Good morning,' he speaks up. You look up and your expression brightens. You walk to him.

'Hello, handsome,' you greet him and you share a kiss. When you pull away, he looks at the datapad.

'Do we need wine?' he asks.

'No, I need wine, you need to put your pants back on,' you correct him, looking at your datapad again.

'But life is so freeing without them,' he says, smirking and putting his hands behind his head. You glare at him.

'Pants. On. Now,' you say. 'As much as I hate it, you have to leave. And I have a meeting I have to focus on. And I won't go nor focus if you're… without pants.'

The look in his eyes tells you he wants to tease you. You cross your arms.

'Remember that two can play that game,' you remind him. He deflates.

'Very well,' he sighs and gets up. Once he's dressed, you spend a very sweet morning. Then, you walk him to the docks.

'Do you need my help with whatever upset you in the morning?' he asks.

'Call me once you settle on the ship?' you ask after a beat. He smiles and nods, satisfied you're already trying to include him more.

You bid him goodbye and watch the ship fly off with a heavy heart. But the prospect of talking to him in a moment is comforting. So, once you don't see it anymore, you return to the palace, eager to talk to your husband again.

You enter your chambers, yawning. You love helping people with their problems, but doing that for a long time exhausts you. So, you're happy when you're done for the day. However, your happiness is short-lived. It dies as soon as you see distressed expression on Lanash's face and clearly agitated C-3PO.

'Oh, Queen [Y/N], it's terrible, simply terrible!' Threepio exclaims, raising his hands. You blink and look at your maid for an explanation. She bites her lip.

'There was an explosion at the Jedi Temple on Coruscant,' she explains. You go pale and fall on a chair next to you.

'Anakin…?' you ask, dreading the answer.

'He's all right!' Lanash quickly assures you. 'But… many died. And… everyone believes someone from the inside did it. A Jedi.'

'Oh, it's even worse,' the droid puts in. You're afraid to ask.

'Why?' you decide to ask anyway.

'They accuse Commander Tano is the one responsible for it,' your maid explains. You stare at them. You blink. Blink again. And once more.

'I'm sorry, but what?' you ask, thinking you heard wrong.

'They caught a suspect,' the droid explains. 'The suspect refused to talk to anyone but Commander Tano. But when they were together in the cell, the suspect was suddenly choked with the Force.'

'And on the recording, it looks as if Ahsoka was the one who did it,' Lanash adds solemnly.

'What happened to Ahsoka?' you ask after a beat. You start pacing around the room.

'They arrested her for murder but she escaped,' C-3PO answers. 'However, someone has knocked unconscious some Clones. And killed three. They believe she did that to escape. Now she's trying to clear her name. She asks for your help, hoping you believe she's innocent.'

You stop and look at him, surprised. You assumed Anakin called when you were gone.

'She's asking for my help?' you ask. 'She is the one who called you?'

Your friends nod. You sigh and run a hand through your hair.

'Why did she escape in the first place?' you ask. 'It just makes her look guilty. And why she's asking for my help and not her master's?'

'Maybe because he has a duty to bring her to the Jedi,' Lanash suggests.

'And I don't?' you ask, bewildered.

'You're more likely to hand her over to the Jedi after you find a proof of her innocence,' C-3PO puts in. 'And you doing that would less anger the Jedi Council.'

'Well, it is in their interest not to make an enemy of me,' you agree reluctantly and sigh. 'Oh, Ahsoka. What did you get yourself into?'

You walk to the door and open it. Your guards stand at attention.

'Find Hawk and inform him we're leaving to Courascant,' you say. 'I want everything ready as soon as possible. Not an official visit. No one can know about it.'

'Yes, Your Majesty,' one of them says and hurries away. You close the door and return to your friends. You give them a grim look.

'Get ready, too,' you say. 'I'm going to need you both.'

Some time later you land discreetly on Coruscant. The moment you do, you call Ahsoka. She's relieved when she sees your face.

'I'm here,' you inform her. 'Where will I meet you?'

'I'm heading to an abandoned amunitions warehouse,' she explains. 'I was told I can find a clue there.'

'That sounds like a very bad idea,' you say after a beat. 'I'm guessing it means it's also the only one we have?'

'Yes,' she confirms, wincing. 'If I send you the address, will you come?'

'I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that. Just send me the address. We'll clear your name in no time.'

'Thank you! You have no idea how much this means to me.'

She ends the call. You sigh and wait. The moment you get the location, you put on your cloak and leave the ship with Lanash and Hawk. Since C-3PO is known to be your protocolar droid, you ask him to stay behind. While he's worried about you, he doesn't really protest.

After some time, you reach the warehouse. You frown when you hear suspicious sounds.

'That sounds like…' your maid starts, nervous.

'Explosions,' your bodyguard finishes, grimly. 'Your Majesty, I must ask you to stay back while we investigate this.'

'How about I'll go with you to investigate this and I'll stay hidden if there's any danger?' you ask. Hawk sighs.

'You'll go anyway, won't you, Your Majesty?' he asks. You beam at him.

'Naturally,' you confirm and head inside. He sighs and follows you with Lanash. They both wish you had agreed for more security. Especially since the warehouse is under the city. But you insisted it would bring attention to you.

When you get inside, you see flames and smoke. Your bodyguard immediately wants you to turn back. But you notice Ahsoka. She's barely standing on her feet, her lightsaber in front of her. A hooded and cloaked figure is approaching her. Scared for your friend, you rush forward, taking out your blaster.

But the figure senses your presence. They turn and immediately jump up to disappear.

'Hawk, after them!' you order and hurry to swaying Ahsoka.

'Yes, Your Majesty,' your bodyguard agrees reluctantly and runs off. You grab your friend and drag her toward the exit. Lanash runs to you and helps you. You take her outside. There you meet a squad of Clones and-

'[Y/N]?' Anakin asks, surprised. Your blood runs cold when you see the troops pointing their guns at Tano. You think quickly.

'Ahsoka Tano was attacked by a masked person with two red lightsabers,' you inform them. 'I believe that would be your real culprit. My bodyguard is currently in pursuit. Instead of arresting a loyal soldier to the Republic, I suggest you send someone to help him. Until there's clear evidence she's guilty, Ahsoka Tano, as a friend of the planet Luth, is under its protection.'

'Which means, for these who are not familiar with intergalactic law, you can't arrest her,' Lanash quickly puts in. Skywalker barely suppress a smile. He quickly orders some of his troops to rush in the direction Hawk run toward. They hurry away and your husband turns to you, an apology in his eyes.

'It would still be better if Ahsoka came with us to the Jedi Temple,' he says. 'She won't be in custody, because she's under your protection, but it would be better if she at least stays in her room.'

You nod, agreeing to that. Anyway, you need to have some words with the Jedi Council. Tano tries to protest, not believing she will be treated fairly, but your maid says something quietly to her and eventually she complies.

At the Jedi Temple you leave the two women in the padawan's room and march to have a talk with Master Windu and Master Yoda. And, as it turns out, Moff Tarkin. Ugh, you dislike him as much as Palpatine.

'I insist that Ahsoka Tano-' he's saying when you arrive.

'She's under the protection of the Queen of Luth, so back off,' you huff, gaining a glare from him. 'She's innocent. If you make her stand trial, you'll let the real culprit escape.'

'Innocent in your eyes, Your Majesty,' he says. 'All evidence points at her.'

'Exactly,' you say, actually confusing him. 'It's too easy. Let's start with the death of Letta Turmond. Why would Commander Tano kill her if the cameras were recording her? That's stupid and she's not stupid. Someone has set her up.'

'The mysterious attacker only you saw?'

'Me, my bodyguard and my maid. And Commander Tano.'

'Why were you three there in the first place?'

'Because you're not doing your job. Instead of looking for a traitor, you're chasing an innocent girl.'

While you're arguing with Tarkin and try to convince the Jedi not to give up on Ahsoka, Anakin walks toward his padawan's room, determined to help her. On his way there, he meets Lanash. She speeds up when she notices him.

'Perfect, I need a Jedi that believes Commander Tano,' she says when they meet and stop. He raises hie eyebrows.

'What is it?' he asks.

'Hawk has returned,' she informs him. 'The attacker escaped but they managed to determine they entered the Jedi Temple. While it's not surprising because we all know the traitor is a Jedi…'

'We may be still able to recognize them if we know what to look for,' he finishes. She nods.

'I suggest starting with Barriss Offee,' she says, surprising him. 'She's the one who told Commander Tano about possible clues in the warehouse. Which makes her the only person who knew that she's going to be there. Well, there was also Ventress, as, apparently, they teamed up briefly, but Hawk said he saw her unconscious body as we were rushing to the warehouse, so it's unlikely it was her.'

'In any case, we must question Barriss,' he agrees.

'Perfect,' she says, satisfied. 'I left General Hawk with Commander Tano in case the attacker tries to frame her again. I figured he's more likely to stop that from happening. So, I'm going to accompany you.'

'Very well,' he concedes, knowing better than to argue with her. 'I'll just let Ahsoka know how the situation looks.'

'Of course… Your Majesty,' she says with a smirk. He jumps and quickly looks around. He glares at her and walks away with a huff. She snorts and follows him.

'Master, how is it going?' Tano asks when they walk into her room. Your bodyguard looks at them, attentive.

'[Y/N] is doing her best to appeal to Masters Yoda and Windu's common sense,' he starts. 'Obi-Wan was about to join them when I was leaving. She was in a… heated conversation with Tarkin. He demands you to be removed from the Order so the Republic could put you on trial. But she's giving all sort of reasons why he can't and why it's not likely you're the traitor. She's not going to let anything happen to you, Snips.'

'I know,' she says quietly. 'That's why I called her…'

Her master looks at her with surprise. So, that's how you found yourself there…

'It's going to be all right,' he assures her. 'Just… stay here and let us help you. Hawk, please, look after her.'

'I will, Your Majesty,' your bodyguard says, nodding seriously. 'You go and find the real culprit.'

'You all are doing this on purpose,' Skywalker murmurs and leaves the room, followed by chuckling Lanash. They head to Offee's room.

'Enter,' they hear after they knock on the door. They enter and find her meditating.

'Barriss, I need to talk to you,' Anakin says.

'Master Skywalker, how can I help you?' Offee asks, standing up. Your maid and husband enter the room. Lanash stays by the door, while the Jedi Knight walks further.

'I was told that you spoke with Ahsoka before she was found in the warehouse,' he says and calls with the Force Barriss' lightsaber. 'What did you say to her?'

'We've been friends for a long time,' Offee says. 'I was only trying to help her. I hope I'm not in any trouble.'

'It's no trouble,' Anakin denies, looking the weapon over. 'I just need to know what you told her. And if you told anyone else.'

'No,' Barriss denies. 'I thought I had a clue for her, but I really couldn't tell her anything. Who told you I spoke to her? Ventress? Isn't she the one Ahsoka says is really behind all this?'

'Ahsoka,' your maid corrects her, causing the Jedi to look at her. 'She told me. And that's what Ahsoka says, but we think she's wrong. We think someone else is involved.'

'Who else could it be if not her?' Offee asks. 'Surely not Ahsoka.'

'No, I don't think it was Ahsoka either,' Skywalker says and Barriss slowly inches toward a pot in the corner of her room. 'We think both Ahsoka and Ventress are telling the truth, but there's only one way to find out.'

He lights his lightsaber and swings it at Barriss. But at the same time, she calls two red lightsabers from the pot and blocks his attack. Lanash jumps, not expecting this.

'Funny. Those belong to Ventress,' your husband says.

'You should've gotten rid of them!' your maid says, glaring at the female Jedi.

'I think they suit me,' she says and the Jedi start dueling. She ends up outside of her room and starts running. Anakin gives chase and they resume the duel. Your maid sighs.

'I hate running,' she murmurs but runs anyway. She's not as fast as the Jedi, so when she catches up to them, she sees Barriss jumping out of the window, as the Temple Guards have showed up. Skywalker jumps after her.

'Seriously?' Lanash groans and runs to exit a more normal way. Outside, she sees younglings and their teacher observing the duel. The Temple Guards are there as well.

'Okay, that's it,' your maid says and marches forward. Your husband and his opponent are staring each other down, when Offee senses someone behind her. She turns swiftly with now one lightsaber raised… and is met with a foot in her stomach. She falls straight into Skywalker's arms. She looks up at him and sags, defeated. Anakin looks up at Lanash, who was the one to do the kick, surprised.

'I see those sparring lessons have been fruitful,' he says, grinning. She blushes.

'Shut up,' she huffs and points at the traitor. 'Let's take her to Master Yoda.'

Some time later, the door to Ahsoka's room opens. She looks up and sees Yoda, Windu, Obi-Wan, Anakin, Lanash and you. She stands up, nervous.

'It was Barriss,' your maid says, going to sit down after all that running. 'See, I told you she was suspicious.'

'Barriss?' Tano asks, hurt and betrayed. You look at her with compassion.

'She was found with Ventress' lightsabers,' you explain. 'She confessed to everything. She… she believes the Jedi have lost their way. I'm sorry, Ahsoka.'

'We're sorry as well,' Kenobi adds. 'You shouldn't have been arrested in the first place.'

'Right, Queen [L/N] was,' Yoda says. 'Suspicious, it was. Glad you're innocent, we are. Forgive us, will you, hm?'

'The evidence was pointing at me,' Tano says after a moment. 'While I'm hurt you didn't trust me, I understand your hesitation. And I appreciate you fought for me.'

She looks at her master and you. You both smile at her. Windu turns to you and bows his head.

'We're grateful for your intervention, Your Majesty,' he says. You nod.

'I'm glad I could be the one to be able to help for once,' you say and walk to Ahsoka. 'I'm afraid I must go, but I'm glad you're going to be all right.'

You go for the hug. She embraces you. You press your lips to her ear.

'I know you feel betrayed, but please, don't leave the Order,' you murmur. 'Anakin needs you. They all do.'

'If you say so,' she says, not convinced, and pulls away with a smile. 'Thank you, [Y/N].'

You smile at her and turn to the Jedi. They bow to you and you nod your head.

'Safe travels, [Y/N],' Obi-Wan says, smiling.

'Visit us again soon, you do,' Yoda says.

'I will do my best,' you say and look at your husband. 'Anakin, could you please walk me to my ship? Hawk complains I didn't take more guards with me, maybe this will put him at ease. Besides, I want to hear all about your epic duel with Barriss.'

'Well, him and I agree on that,' Skywalker says, giving you an unimpressed look. You smile at him innocently and leave, followed by him, Lanash and your bodyguard. Of course, you and your husband walk together. Gods know you both deserve at least a moment of being together after all that.

A/N: Thank you for reading! Let me know your thoughts! Reblog, like and comment if you could. Seriously, even if it's just to leave a thumb up. Every bit of feedback keeps me motivated.

This can also be found on Archive of Our Own: https://archiveofourown.org/works/60214684/chapters/155121823

#anakin skywalker #reader #anakin x reader #anakin x you #anakin & reader #anakin & you #anakin/reader #anakin/you #star wars

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jedimasterbailey · 4 years ago

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A sneak preview of the next chapter of my fic “The Padawans” in which Vader thinks of Ahsoka and Luminara as he plans his fated rematch with Barriss. Includes a flashback to a conversation between Anakin and Luminara post “Brain Invaders” that we should have seen! Link to the fic below, enjoy and thank you for the support 💚💙❤️

Darth Vader stares out to the busy metropolis of Coruscant from his personal quarters in the Imperial Palace, lost in thought. Behind the bulbous black eyes that served as the Sith Lord’s window to the world were tired blue ones still hoping to catch a glimpse of the former residence of Padme Amidala, the deceased wife of Anakin Skywalker. It was moments like this where the former Jedi Knight missed the Senator deeply. For Vader was about to encounter another ghost from his past, Anakin’s past. Soon Vader will be face to face with Luminara Unduli in the very place she used to call home, a home he destroyed.

In the months after the rise of the Empire, Palpatine had the Jedi Temple renovated into his own personal palace. Although the bodies of the dead Jedi have been long excavated and the relics of the Jedi long destroyed, echoes of the past were everywhere. Vader could still see the destruction he caused and he could still hear the terrified screams of the younglings and Knights that were at his mercy. No amount of refurbishment could ever erase what he had done. It was because of this that Vader avoided the palace as much as he could. The Sith apprentice despised being in the place Anakin Skywalker and his Jedi family once resided in. However, if being here resulted in the reappearance of Barriss Offee, then Vader will do what must be done.

The plan was simple. Luminara will be the bait and once Barriss was right where the Dark Lord needed her, Luminara would be disposed of. Vader wanted the Mirialan to feel the same scorching pain he felt on Mustafar when Obi-wan left him for dead. If he couldn’t have his Master’s love, neither could she.

Victory was inevitable. Anakin may have been weak, but if Barriss couldn’t defeat him, then she didn’t stand a chance against Vader, especially with a broken heart. Vader will prove Sidious wrong; that the girl is unworthy of the title of Darth or worth the attention of Ahsoka Tano.

Yet despite his quest for vengeance, Vader was admittedly nervous to see Luminara again. For months he has avoided contact, leaving the Grand Inquisitor to handle the matter. Seeing the woman Anakin viewed as a mother figure beaten and bruised by his own henchman was the last thing Vader wanted to do. It was no different than the Sith avoiding Padme’s tomb on Naboo; he could not face what he has done. As hard as the Emperor had tried to snuff it out, Anakin’s spirit was still trapped inside the machine that was his body. Vader was going to have to kill the one person he knew was Luminara’s whole heart and the Anakin part of him hated him for it.

The cyborg then walks over to a bedside table, the very table Anakin used to hold such possessions, and opens the drawer that contained the last pieces of his Jedi past he refused to part with. In one hand he held one of Ahsoka’s lightsabers and in the other, her Padawan beads.

Vader did not believe for a moment that his former apprentice was gone. Ahsoka had managed to survive situations that would have killed more experienced Jedi. He had taught her how to outsmart the enemy and how to defy seemingly impossible odds. The lightsaber had merely been a decoy and the presence of Morai was confirmation. Somewhere out there, Ahsoka Tano was alive and one day, they would meet again. Vader was sure of it.

“Forgive me, for what I’m about to do.” Vader says to the items in his hands. He didn’t know who exactly he was talking to; Ahsoka or Luminara. Regardless, the Dark Lord thinks back to a time where both women were safe and within arms reach.

Feeling ecstatic that Ahsoka has woken up from her healing trance after her encounter with the Geonosian parasites, Anakin takes it upon himself to find food for his Padawan. Just before the mess hall was a small lounge where visitors could sit and wait while the healers worked on patients. Having been up for several hours on end between their mission on Geonosis and waiting for Ahsoka to wake up, Anakin wanted to grab a cup a caf before waiting in line for food. Upon entering the quiet room, the Jedi Knight was baffled to see a very miserable Luminara Unduli staring into her own beverage.

The Mirialan’s hands were shaking and her eyes were red and puffy, presumably from crying. Never in all his years of knowing the Jedi Master has Anakin seen her look so broken. He takes a seat beside Luminara and places a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Master?”

Luminara raises her head up to meet the young man’s gaze, fresh tears streaming down her face, “Is Ahsoka alright?”

Anakin nods, “She just woke up. Physically, she’s on the mend, it’s her mind I’m worried about. Our Padawans have been through a lot, more than I’d like to think about.”

“Yes... our girls deserve so much more.” Luminara sighs, grabbing tissue to dry her eyes.

“Barriss is going to come through too, she’s strong and resilient like her Master.” Anakin says gently, earning a watery laugh from the woman.

“I’m not sure about that Skywalker... I’ve failed as a Master.” Luminara professes sadly.

Anakin would hear none of it, “Now hold on a second, you have not failed Barriss. None of this is your fault!”

Luminara shakes her head, “I’ve almost lost her twice within a day. It’s my job to protect her and I’ve failed. According to Master Fisto, Barriss’s head scans indicate that she may have suffered some head trauma between the worm and the extreme cold. First, she almost suffocates after blowing up a whole factory with herself still in it only to then get infected by a parasite hours later! Who knows how she’ll be when she wakes up!”

“Perhaps you were right all along. Maybe I should have accompanied Barriss inside the catacombs instead of endangering your student. Maybe I should have gone with the girls on that supply run. There were plenty of Jedi to interagate Poggle and Ahsoka would have been safer in your care. I’ve been a fool! I’m so sorry Anakin and I owe Ahsoka an apology too!”

Anakin then wraps an arm around the woman and pulls her close, “You're being way too hard on yourself, Luminara. You’re forgetting that there were a lot of factors that were beyond our control. Your plan on Geonosis was good! We probably would’ve been successful without it because Force knows I don’t think things through, I’m glad someone was doing the thinking!

“The assignment given to the Padawans was more than reasonable. I’m sure Ahsoka was thrilled to see Barriss’s photographic memory at work and I really do need to work on trusting her. You weren’t planning on those slimy bugs getting in the way nor were you counting on one of those nasty worms infecting the troops on that shuttle. I can’t believe I’m saying this to you of all people, but I think you should give yourself some grace!”

“If you’ve failed as a Master for things not according to plan, then I am a huge failure as well as Obi-wan and probably every other Jedi Master that’s ever lived. You saw how well his plan went when he thought he could talk sense into the Queen of bugs. You were just seconds away from being possessed!” Anakin argues, rolling his eyes at the memory of Obi-wan’s curiosity.

“Rest assured, I’ll be giving him plenty of grief for that!” Luminara smiles, her face brightening up a little, “But thank you Anakin... your kindness never fails to amaze me.”

“Let me know when you do because I’d love to see that. All things considered, he deserves a good beating.” Anakin winks with a playful nudge before getting serious again. “Did you want to see Barriss? I was going to grab something to eat for Ahsoka, but if you need the company, I’d walk with you.”

Luminara nods, “Yes, I wanted to give you and Ahsoka some time alone especially since it may be a while before Barriss wakes up given her injuries.”

Anakin beams at the Jedi Master. For as long as he’s known Luminara, she has always been considerate and gentle with his needs.

“I appreciate that, Master.”

“Can I ask you something?” Luminara says with a far off look on her face.

“Anything.”

“Did you really believe that I gave up on Barriss when the factory went down?” Luminara asks calmly, but Anakin could tell from her breathing that it was a facade.

“No.” Anakin admits allowing Luminara to exhale a sigh of relief, “I allowed my fear to get the better of me and I took it out on you. You were trying to console me and even when I didn’t deserve it, you never got upset with me. You were hurting just as much as I was and I was selfish. I know better than that! Of course you care about Barriss! I owe you an apology Master, I’m sorry.”

Luminara begins to cry again startling the Jedi Knight, “Did I say something wrong?”

Luminara shakes her head.

“No! I’m just so relieved!” Luminara sobs, putting her face in her hands.

“Oh, good! I’m sure Obi-wan would kill me if I upset you.” Anakin chuckles, rising to offer a hand to Luminara.

“Walk with me back to the girl’s room? I gotta stop and get Snips some food, but I’m sure she’d love your company. And who knows? Maybe Barriss will wake up! I’m sure your face is the first one she’d want to see.”

With a smile as bright as the twin suns of Tatooine, Luminara graciously accepts Anakin’s hand, “I’d love to.”

Gingerly placing the lightsaber and beads back where he found them, Vader turns to leave the room, sensing the Grand Inquisitor’s presence as well as a weakened Luminara. For the sake of his sanity, the Dark Lord prayed his true identity stayed a secret with the prisoner.

#star wars fanfiction #anakin skywalker #ahsoka tano #barriss offee #luminara unduli #darth vader #darth vader is regretting everything

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