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Author	Topic: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
RangerPrincess Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/1/05 6:11pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 5/30 9:11 PM)
	Quite steamy in there for a sec. --RP -----signature----- "You were my brother, Anakin. I loved you!"--Obi-Wan to Darth Vader "I am your reward, you don't find me handsome?"--Darth Vader "I HATE YOU!"--my three-year-old cousin or Anakin? chiss_man is my e-ewok
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/1/05 8:32pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 5/30 9:11 PM) - Date Edited: 6/1/05 8:33pm (1 edits total) Edited By: PadmeSolo
	qtrhrs78: It was rather long... we all had sore eyes among other things. Sad it is. RangerPrincess: Well, you can't let the moments of passion fall by the wayside... Plus, it's downhill from here. _PSK_ PS: I love Evan Lysacek to death... so Captain Lysacek is created in his honor. It's too bad he can't be one of the "good guys". ___________________________ In his personal suite, Palpatine stopped pacing as a feral grin swept over his features. The pieces of his plan had fallen into place and he was ready to put into action the series of events that would lead to young Skywalker's fall from grace. He was amazed he had not thought of his new strategy earlier. It would have avoided much of the trouble he now found himself facing. Masking his facial expression, he turned back to his desk. A pale finger pressed down on the comm button. "Captain Lysacek, I require your presence immediately." The glowing image of the captain of his guard nodded. "Of course, master." Palpatine turned to the door as the guard entered. Captain Lysacek's face was masked by the scarlet helmet and he wore the matching robes of the senatorial guard. The chancellor spoke immediately. "I have a task for you." "Yes, my lord?" "There is a servant girl here who needs our attention," Palpatine began. "I need her to be taken into custody during the banquet tonight. It has to be a quiet job. We cannot risk detection." The crimson figure bowed. "Of course, my lord. Which girl do you want?" The chancellor turned to a desk and illuminated a hologram of Padmé Amidala. "This is the one. She goes by the name of Padmé Nabierre." "It will be done, master," Captain Lysacek assured. "Good," the elder man crooned. The guard remained a moment longer. "What shall be done with her after she is taken into custody?" Palpatine paused a moment before smiling in satisfaction. "Take her to my personal outpost on Mustafar. That is too far from Coruscant for the Republic to take any notice." "We will see her safely delivered to Mustafar." The Chancellor nodded in contentment. "Good. See that there are no flaws in your performance, Captain Lysacek. This matter is not to be taken lightly." "Of course, my lord," Captain Lysacek answered as he bowed deeply and then turned on heel to exit the room. Palpatine watched him go for a few moments before letting his mouth fall into a self-satisfied smirk. There would be no escape for Padmé Amidala this time. ~^~ Ari remained silent as both Anakin and Obi-Wan brooded on the other side of the room. He could understand their disappointment at the turn of events, but doing nothing but mulling over the situation would not lead to a positive result. Action was necessary if Padmé was to have a safe departure. He walked to stand beside his master. The Jedi was staring out into the darkening sky with a frown on his face. He turned his to Ari and then Anakin, shaking his head. "Something does not feel right." "I agree," Anakin seconded. "I have a very bad feeling about all of this." "Perhaps your grief is clouding your judgment," Ari proposed. Anakin narrowed his eyes at the boy. He did not seem to like the suggestion. "I don't think so. Something larger is at work. Something's going to happen to her. I know it." Obi-Wan sighed. "Perhaps Ari is correct, Anakin. Nevertheless, I need to speak with Senator Organa to make sure everything can go as planned." Anakin still wore a dubious expression, but he nodded. "I'll go get ready for the banquet while you find Senator Organa." "Good. Watch out for anything suspicious. We can't let our guard down." His brow furrowed as he studied Anakin. "Will you be alright spending time with the Chancellor?" "It doesn't much matter," the blonde rebutted. "I have to keep up the act no matter what. I just hope he doesn't sense that I know of his new knowledge." "That makes two of us," Obi-Wan muttered. "Go now and prepare. Don't do anything out of the ordinary." Anakin moved to the door, pressing the control panel. He glanced out into the hall before turning back to Obi-Wan and Ari. "I'll see you later tonight." "May the Force be with you," Obi-Wan called out to him as he strode from the room. Ari's eyes followed the edge of the door as it slide shut again. There was an awkward pause as master and apprentice contemplated each other. Finally, Ari broke the silence. "I apologize for expressing my discontent with your actions to Anakin. It was inappropriate." Obi-Wan shook his head. "Don't be sorry, Padawan. I'm glad you trust him enough to confide in him." "He has helped me form my perspective of the Jedi," Ari explained. "I simply do not wish to follow in his path. He has endured much torment." "Anakin has amazing Force abilities," the Jedi Master noted. "But he is too easily swayed by his emotions." The boy cut in. "I don't think it's his emotions so much has his attachments. He's afraid of losing what he has." "He walks a dangerous line." Obi-Wan let his troubled eyes rest again on the shadowy mountains. Ari moved to stand beside his master as they gazed out into the darkness. "I think he's beginning to fear losing himself more than almost anything. Except perhaps her." The tone with which Ari spoke caused Obi-Wan to turn his head sharply to gaze at him. The Padawan refused to look at his master, instead intensely studying the outdoor scene. An uneasy feeling settled itself in Obi-Wan's stomach. "You know something." "I can't share." The short response booked no further inquiry. The Jedi Master's brows were knitted together, but he simply replied, "I hope you both know what you're doing, Padawan." Ari's response was nearly inaudible as it floated softly between them. "So do I." Obi-Wan let the silence reign as they stared out into the readily darkening beauty of Alderaan. After a few minutes he turned to Ari. "Let us go find the Senator." Master and apprentice shared a brief look of unease before exiting the room in a contemplative silence. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/4/05 6:09am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/1 8:32 PM)
	Sorry for the delay... I'm supposed to be graduating this morning, but it's raining. In any case, I've been busy with that. I am graduating sometime today! _PSK_ -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/6/05 3:42pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/1 8:32 PM)
	We graduated inside at 7:30 at night... it was fun, but not quite what anyone expected. _PSK_ _________________________ Bail Organa sat motionless in his private study. The presence of the Chancellor made him nervous and the quick departure of Master Kenobi earlier did not help to dissuade his fears. Bail had the sneaking suspicion that all the hard work they had put into hiding the presence of Senator Amidala would be for not by the end of the evening. He had noticed that the Chancellor had a way of knowing everything that came to pass and her presence on Alderaan would certainly not be overlooked. He stared blankly at the surface of desk in front of him. There was nothing to be done. Master Kenobi and Skywalker would deal with the situation. Bail could only sit back and watch as the Jedi took action. He was not pleased with his position. A light flashed on his desk signaling the door chime had been activated. Taking a deep breath, he called, "Come in." Bail let out a sigh of relief as Obi-Wan Kenobi entered with his Padawan. He had not been interested in dealing with the Chancellor or another member of his entourage. "How can I help you, Master Kenobi?" Obi-Wan exchanged a dark look with his apprentice before stepping forward. "Is it alright if I speak frankly?" For a moment Bail stared at him in confusion. Then the implication of what the Jedi was asking set in. The room had been scanned for listening devices and recording pieces after the Chancellor had arrived. Bail didn't trust the man and was not interested in being watched. "It's clean." "Good." The Jedi Master placed his hands on the back of the chair facing Bail. "I have bad news to share." Senator Organa glanced at the Jedi Padawan who remained a few paces back. His dark hood was pulled over his head and Bail could just make out his face. "What is it?" "The Chancellor has discovered the existence of Padmé Amidala on Alderaan. Plans have been put into motion to have her leave the planet tonight during the welcoming banquet." Obi-Wan's voice was tired and he seemed resigned to the course of events. Bail frowned. "I had feeling this might happen. How did he find out?" The Padawan stepped up next to his master. "How is not the matter of concern. We need to figure out the logistics of her departure." "Ari is right, Senator." Obi-Wan shook his head subtly at Ari. "Her safety is our primary concern." "All of us need to be present at the banquet," Bail mused. "That leaves the job up to the palace guard. Or Tristan…" "Tristan?" The Alderaanian Senator nodded. "He's my nephew. He has a certain attachment to Senator Amidala, but he does not know her true identity. I'm sure he would be willing to orchestrate her departure." "Can we trust him?" Ari spoke softly, but his tone chilled the Senator. "Without a doubt." Bail glanced down at his desk and pressed a button. "Tristan, are you there?" "Uncle?" a voice crackled back. "Come to my private study immediately." "I'm on my way." Silence pervaded the room as they waited for the young man's arrival. Obi-Wan let his eyes fall shut as he felt out with the Force. Although Anakin was still emitting distress, he was no longer a whirling hurricane within the Force. Next to him, Ari emanated nothing. With a quick glance, Obi-Wan could tell the boy was tense. His shoulders were tight and his jaw clenched. Nevertheless, the Force swirled calmly around Ari making Obi-Wan appreciate the boy's self-control. The cloaked figure next to him was on his way to becoming a true Jedi. He seemed to effortlessly let go of his emotions and troubles and open himself up to the peaceful nature of the Force. Ari did not desire anything as far as his master could tell. In a way, Obi-Wan supposed, his only fault was his unquestioning allegiance to the Jedi Code. At one time, Obi-Wan had believed as the boy did, but now he understood that there was more to the Force than the narrow view taken by the Jedi Council and Code. The Force was intertwined with all life. All of his actions, sanctioned by the council or no, followed the guidance of the Force. He did not try to control it as a user of the dark side would, but neither did he limit his acceptance of its will. The entry of the Senator's nephew prevented Obi-Wan from continuing his contemplation of Ari. "You needed me?" Senator Organa noticed the new occupant glancing uneasily at the two Jedi. "Tristan Organa, I'm pleased to introduce to you Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and his apprentice Ari Kinor." Tristan shook their hands swiftly, releasing his grip as soon as possible. He glanced at Obi-Wan and then Ari. Trying to cover his apprehension, he smirked. "Neither of you happens to be married to Padmé Naberrie, right?" Obi-Wan's gaze shot up to Bail's face. The Senator shook his head. He hadn't informed Tristan of Padmé's marriage. Frowning, the Jedi Master's stare penetrated Tristan. "Neither of us is married." The Alderaanian boy shrank under the Jedi's scrutiny. His nearly omnipresent arrogance faded into a nervous unease. He turned to his uncle. "What's happening?" Bail simply inclined his head to Obi-Wan. The Jedi took the lead. "We need your assistance on a matter of extreme delicacy. Padmé Naberrie needs to leave Alderaan tonight during the welcoming banquet for Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. Her departure is to be noticed by nobody." Knowing better than to ask questions, Tristan nodded. "Where is she to go?" "Take her to Naboo," Obi-Wan advised. "As long as she arrives safely and immediately departs for the country her presence will remain unknown." "Not to mention that it is too familiar a place to be construed as a good hiding spot. It is doubtful she will be found there," Senator Organa elaborated. The Jedi Master turned to Tristan. "Neither the Senator nor I can offer you any assistance. We cannot interrupt our ordinary activities." "I understand." Tristan's eyes glowed with fierce determination. "I don't know why this must be done, but I won't let anything happen to Padmé. A team of elite guards who I personally know and trust will assist me. We should be off the planet before the banquet is even halfway done." "Thank you." Obi-Wan turned to Ari. "Come, we must prepare." "May the Force be with you, Master Kenobi," Senator Organa told him as Obi-Wan turned for the door. Master Kenobi paused. "May the Force assist you as well. Be diligent, Tristan." With one last glance at the Senator and his nephew, the Jedi Master pulled his hood over his head and swept out of the door. Ari followed instantly, his own cloak billowing as he strode along side his master. Tristan watched as the swirling figures departed. "However did we get involved in this, uncle?" Bail Organa provided no answer. "Start planning her departure." "Yes, uncle," Tristan dutifully replied trying to hide his fear. This was no normal planetary mission. Something he could not understand was at work and it terrified him. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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RangerPrincess Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/7/05 5:10pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/6 3:42 PM)
	Bah. I missed two posts? Nonetheless both were very good. --RP -----signature----- "You were my brother, Anakin. I loved you!"--Obi-Wan to Darth Vader "I am your reward, you don't find me handsome?"--Darth Vader "I HATE YOU!"--my three-year-old cousin or Anakin? chiss_man is my e-ewok
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Jedi_Johnson Registered: Apr '02	Date Posted: 6/8/05 10:12am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/6 3:42 PM)
	Wow was I ever happy to see this fic up at the top of the boards again. Hard to believe its been so long since I posted in here. As always great work and I'm looking forward to more. -----signature----- Why so serious?
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/8/05 9:29pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/6 3:42 PM)
	RangerPrincess: Thank you very much! I'm glad you're still around. J_J: It's been awhile. Heh, we've all grown older, but my story remains. Glad you're still reading. I'm hoping to actually finish this time around. _PSK_ ___________________________________ No light shone inside Anakin Skywalker's quarters save the blue glow of the Alderaanian moon. He stood silently, staring out the window into the darkness beyond. His hair glittered in the moonlight. His exuded a stoic disposition, but the inner battle was revealed with a glance at his shockingly blue eyes that shone with a cold fire. Unshed tears caused them to glow brighter than usual while his inner turmoil encapsulated his intense gaze. His flesh hand stroked the mechanical one hanging still at his side. His fingers brushed the cold metal at his wrist before pulling the leather glove off in a swift motion. He tilted his head to study the shining gold surface. With a subtle impulse of his mind, he watched as the hand clenched into a fist. The soft whirring of mechanical devices could be heard. Anakin's face distorted in disgust. He glanced away from the revolting sight. He trembled as a small drop of water wound its way down his cheek. The young Jedi Knight moved closer to the window. He tried to become one with the darkness. Letting his eyes close, he spoke quietly, "Let go. Surrender to the night." Taking a calming breath, he felt some of the worry drain from his soul. Nevertheless, the tears kept threatening to overflow. Groaning, he allowed his mechanical hand to crush his fingers of flesh and blood. He could not remain in this state once the Chancellor arrived. Letting the feeling of pain overwhelm him, he surrendered to his own self-imposed night. There was nothing but pain. Distinct physical pain. This he could deal with. He allowed his Jedi training to pervade his mind as he found a sanctuary of peace within. The hiss of the door alerted him to the disruption of his solitude. He did not need to turn around to identify his invader. Palpatine stood silently behind him. "How can I help you, my Lord?" Anakin's question was soft. He did not yet trust his voice. "The banquet is prepared." Palpatine let a smile tug upon his lips as he gazed at Anakin's back. "Your presence is required." The dark figure nodded. "Give me a moment." "Whatever you request, young Skywalker." The Chancellor turned to pace the length of the room, pausing by the desk to glance at the assortment of datapads laid on it. "Do anything interesting this afternoon, Anakin?" "What?" Anakin spun to face him. His features relaxed as his gaze landed on the desk. "Oh, that. Just a little research." Palpatine narrowed his gaze at the boy. The Jedi Knight's face was shadowed, but silver streams could be seen falling across his cheek bones. The boy had been crying. The Chancellor tilted his head to the side. This was an interesting development. "I expect your presence outside in five minutes, Anakin. And do try to clean yourself up." Anakin restrained himself from wiping madly at the watery trails cascading down his face until the Chancellor had exited his room. Glancing out the window again, he shook himself back to reality. He could not allow his weaknesses to affect his performance tonight. As a matter of fact, tonight it was important he showed no weakness at all. Walking to the kitchen included in the apartment, he gathered a handful of water and slashed his face. The cold temperature caused him to gasp, eyes widening. He rubbed his eyes roughly with his sleeve, not minding that the fabric became damp. Trying to center himself, he took a deep breath. If he was normal, they would get past this. If he could not contain himself, the entire situation ran the risk of falling to pieces. He made himself concentrate on the flow of air in and out of his body. He visualized the molecules drifting within him. Anakin could nearly sense the interactions of the particles as they were sucked down his throat and then pushed up again. Paying close attention to his breathing, he let go of his anxieties. He had a duty to fulfill tonight. A duty that was personal as well as professional. He would not let Padmé down, nor would he forget his role as a representative of the Jedi Order. The harsh pain and cold despair lifted from his chest as he turned to face the door. Tonight he would play his part. Tonight he would let himself believe that everything could be right in the universe. Tonight he would be an optimist. Palpatine raised his eyes to glance over Anakin as he emerged from the room. "Much better. You won't scare anyone this way." "That's the last thing I'd want to do, Chancellor," Anakin assured. His tone was light and a smile graced his features. The Chancellor frowned inwardly. The boy had recovered from his distress extremely quickly. Too quickly. "You're not upset anymore?" Anakin shook his head. "I'm perfectly fine. Shall we make our way to the banquet?" "Of course." Palpatine began his way down the corridor. He cast a sympathetic look at the Jedi Knight. "What was the matter anyway, Anakin? You know you can tell me anything." The young man quickly masked his thoughts within the Force. He did not want the Chancellor digging around now. "I received some disturbing news. It surprised me, that's all." Palpatine was intrigued when he encountered the enforced shielding around Anakin's mind. The Jedi was not interested in sharing. He smiled softly at his companion. He would have to coax it out of him. "Anakin, you can share more than that. Don't you trust me? I've never let you down." "It's not that I don't trust you," Anakin explained. "I just haven't had enough time to process everything. I'll tell you when I'm ready." The Jedi Knight's face was turned away and he would not meet Palpatine's penetrating gaze. The Chancellor stared daggers at him while letting a sneer cross his face. "I'm sure you will, young Skywalker." The blonde frowned, but did not glance at his older companion. Something in Palpatine's tone seemed off, but he wasn't interested in worrying about that. Taking a deep breath and distancing himself from the situation, he was relieved to feel a new presence entering the corridor. Glancing down the hallway joining from the right, he let a genuine smile fleet across his features. "Master Obi-Wan, Ari!" Obi-Wan's stormy eyes studied him closely, but the Jedi Master did not seem worried by what he found. "Anakin, good to see you. It's been awhile." It took years of Jedi training to mask his initial surprise at the comment. Instantly, Anakin mentally checked himself. As far as the Chancellor was concerned this was the first time former master and apprentice had been reunited on Alderaan. "I look forward to catching up during the banquet. Ari, how is he treating you? Boring you to death with dry lectures?" "More like the other way," Ari muttered under his breath at Anakin, too quiet for the others to take notice of. In a normal voice he continued, "I've been treated extremely well. It is an honor to work with Master Obi-Wan." The Chancellor's expression was amiable enough, but Anakin sensed he was not happy about the recent development. Palpatine gave a forced smile at the Jedi Master. "Master Kenobi, charming to see you again. Shall we continue to the banquet?" Obi-Wan bowed his head. "Of course. Lead on, Chancellor." Anakin and Obi-Wan exchanged a meaningful glance as the Chancellor turned away. <<You seem to be doing better.>> Anakin cocked a brow. Obi-Wan's words within his head were surprising since he hadn't weakened his shield. <<I took a few moments to clam down. I'm fine. How did you get through?>> <<You weren't blocking me,>> came the amused reply. <<Only Palpatine.>> <<Oh.>> Anakin cast an interested glance ahead at the Chancellor. <<That didn't occur to me.>> Obi-Wan glanced at him with a twinkle in his eye. <<Obviously.>> The Jedi Knight glared back. <<Shut up.>> Obi-Wan had to stifle a chuckle as they continued down the hall. Anakin was definitely in better spirits and he was eternally grateful for that. They could not afford the young man to be unstable tonight. Not if everything was going to work. Sighing to himself, he placed a gentle hand on Ari's shoulder. His Padawan glanced up. "Master?" The Jedi Master shook his head. "Nothing, Padawan. Just dreading all the politicians." A smile threatened to capture Ari's mouth. "Oh, I forgot how much you hate them, Master." "Come along," Obi-Wan replied. The three Jedi hurried to catch up with the Chancellor, all trying to focus on the task at hand. No mistakes would be tolerated tonight. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/9/05 10:42am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/6 3:42 PM)
	This was updated, but I can't edit the header... so I'm just adding another post to see if that changes anything. Sorry! -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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qtrhrs78 Registered: Sep '03	Date Posted: 6/10/05 11:58am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Great updates... and congratulations on graduating.
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/11/05 11:15am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM) - Date Edited: 6/12/05 6:51pm (2 edits total) Edited By: PadmeSolo
	qtrhrs78: Thank you very much! Short, I know. I'm also still having issues with the header... Is this a subtle message telling me to edit it and have it beta read and then repost it on the Saga forum? _PSK_ ____________________________________ The couch was soft under Padmé Amidala's touch as she ran her hand across the arm. She wished she could be doing something useful, but she was well aware that the best course of action was to take no action at all. Anakin and Obi-Wan had the situation under control. Her task was not to arouse suspicion. Wandering aimlessly through the halls like a caged beast was not an option no matter how trapped she felt. She let out of a cry of frustration, kicking the couch. None of this was fair. She was supposed to be able to live and have her children in peace. Padmé had escaped the Chancellor's watchful eyes before, but a cloud of doubt encompassed her now. It was unlikely she would be able to repeat the feat. Especially now that he knew she was here. "Oh, Anakin," she uttered softly. It was his fault. She was not so naïve as to be able to deny that. He cared too much for her safety. He had been unable to keep himself away from her even when he knew this would be the result. Padmé could not blame him for the strength of his love. Now though, she was keenly aware of the danger his divided life presented. She realized with a sharp intake of breath that his feelings for her overrode his Jedi training. Sinking into the couch her eyes widened in horror. She had been selfish before. She had only thought of her own need for Anakin. Of course she had considered the nature of his allegiance to the Jedi, but she never considered herself a threat. Now the depth of her ignorance seeped into her conscience. She had torn him apart. Not anyone else. Padmé bit her lip as tears came to her eyes. It was her fault he was destroying everything he had worked for. She had thought their love would bind them together forever. And perhaps it would, but love was not enough. It would never be enough. Neither she nor Anakin was that simple. When they gave themselves to each other they had not realized they were creating one life, completely uniting two. She had placed herself between Anakin and his potential as a Jedi. As the times grew darker, the Jedi needed him. But he was hers. She understood that now. The Jedi Council had allowed the marriage because they were wary of denying him the right. A bitter laugh escaped her lips. Apparently even Jedi Masters made mistakes. Allowing Anakin to attach himself to her had allowed him to slip away from the Jedi in the hour of their greatest need. But no one had fully comprehended the situation before. She had not even begun to see what was happening. Shaking her head, she thought of Obi-Wan. He must have known. A sad smile crossed her face, but he loved Anakin as well. The Jedi Master had not the will to cause his Padawan the tremendous pain necessary to escape the current situation. She reached up to feel the tears streaming down her face. Changing the past was impossible she reminded herself. Without changes to the past, she concluded, the future was bleak. It hardly mattered if she escaped Alderaan. Anakin's concern for her would hold him back from his duty to the Jedi. How had she not seen this? A wistful smile ghosted over her lips. "You were in love," she whispered. Her words sounded hollow against the silent backdrop. "Are you still in love?" To that question, she had no answer. Padmé still felt the blinding warmth of love and desire towards Anakin, but it was deformed by fear, regret and an unyielding sense of reality. His feelings were probably similarly obscured she considered. His fear of losing her was apparent from their earlier conversation. His fear. She remembered a conversation with Obi-Wan long ago, or perhaps only a year ago. The two were equivalent to her. Fear was a pathway to the dark side he had told her. Fear was a channel for jealousy, anger and hate. Her heart twisted. Fear was Anakin's constant companion. The door chime jarred her. Quickly wiping away her tears, she called, "Come in!" Padmé was surprised to find her eyes resting on Tristan Organa. He took a step forward, paying no mind to her disheveled appearance. "I was sent by Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and my uncle to be of assistance to you." She nodded. He did not need to say more. "I am ready." "We depart immediately." Tristan's usual playfulness had been swept away. In its place remained a serious young man dedicated to the task at hand. Padmé had to admit she was relieved. This was definitely a better side of his nature. Padmé walked next to him as they navigated the halls. Occasionally they made an unnecessary turn leading Padmé to believe they were being followed. Throughout, Tristan remained silent. His eyes swept the interior of the palace uncertainly, but he never wavered. When they got to the lower level, a set of four palace guards fell silently in behind them. Tristan glanced at one of them, raising a brow. The man nodded. "All clear so far." "Good," the boy replied. As they turned to continue, Padmé heard a quiet hiss followed by a thud. Following her instincts she immediately threw herself into an alcove on the side of the hall. As she peered around the edge of her hiding spot, she watched the other guards fall. Her brow furrowed. Whoever was attacking them was using poison darts. Tristan stood frozen in the middle of the corridor. His face was a mix of fear and confusion as he tried to comprehend the change of events. He became even more panicked as he noticed her absence. Silently apologizing to him, she shrank back into her alcove. Padmé flinched as the hiss of the expected fifth dart reached her ears seconds later. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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RangerPrincess Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/13/05 2:06pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Sorry, I was too lazy to come here sooner. Excellent post. I want more Anakin/Padmé action! (not in that way) --RP -----signature----- "You were my brother, Anakin. I loved you!"--Obi-Wan to Darth Vader "I am your reward, you don't find me handsome?"--Darth Vader "I HATE YOU!"--my three-year-old cousin or Anakin? chiss_man is my e-ewok
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qtrhrs78 Registered: Sep '03	Date Posted: 6/17/05 5:00am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Up!
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/18/05 4:31pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	RangerPrincess: Whenever you show up is fine! I'm just glad you're here. More A/P... we'll see about that. qtrhrs78: Thank you, darling! _PSK_ PS: Check out the poem in my sig... it won't take long! end shameless promoting ___________________________ Heavy footfalls caused Padmé to glance around the corner of her hiding spot. She quickly evaluated the situation before drawing back into darkness. A scarlet member of the Chancellor's guard and a handful of clone troopers had arrived on the scene. Trying to stay calm, she drew a deep breath. Perhaps the troopers were just investigating the incident. She shook her head. The presence of Chancellor Palpatine's personal guard radiated a more sinister motive. The red-robed men were rarely out of Palpatine's sight and only carried out orders given directly by the Chancellor. Whatever the intentions of the troopers might be, Padmé was not interested in finding out. She sank deeper into the nook. A casual occupant of the hallway would not notice her, but if they were to search the corridor her hiding place would not protect her. Padmé's eyes darted wildly as she tried to find an escape route. The alcove she had rushed into was nothing but a service hub that housed a computer and power terminal. Lacking a possible escape route, she sighed. She concentrated on the quiet hiss of her own breath as she tried to remain silent and still. The distorted voices from the hall wafted to her. "They're unconscious, Sir." The filtered speech came from one of the clone troopers. "Good," another voice replied, less distorted. Palpatine's guard Padmé surmised. "You two, take the boy to the Chancellor. Kill the guards and dispose of their bodies." "Yes, Sir." Padmé frowned. The idea of Tristan being questioned by the Chancellor made her uneasy. Moving carefully, she turned to face the computer terminal. Perhaps she could get a signal out through the computer port. Her brow furrowed as she considered the idea. Even if she was able to modify her data pad to connect with the main computer system, it was doubtful anyone would notice her fiddling. Anakin, Obi-Wan and Bail were already at the banquet. She bit her lip. "Search the corridor! She can't have disappeared." Padmé's throat constricted as she listened to the words. There was no doubt now. The Chancellor was capitalizing on Anakin's mental slip. She backed even further into the alcove while reaching into her boot for the small blaster she kept with her at all times. Holding it steadily in her hand, she stared at the opening to the corridor. They would not get her without a fight. She tried to center herself on the present situation. Too much was at stake to have a lapse in judgment. If the Chancellor kidnapped her, and that certainly seemed to be what was happening, Anakin would be clay within his hands. She shifted uncomfortably. That was a train of thought she was not yet willing to travel down. Trying to survey the situation objectively, she ran through a list of items she had on her person. Her clothes were useless. The hair pins she wore could be used as weapons in hand to hand fighting, but she wouldn't stand a chance against blasters with them. Her commlink was sitting on the table in her quarters, forgotten in the hast of her departure. She sighed. The data pad was useless by itself and she did not have time to modify it. That left her with hair pins, a blaster and whatever mental capacity she still had. Padmé could feel the panic beginning to seep through her defenses. Narrowing her eyes, she shook her head. Panic was not an option. No matter how desperate the situation became, she could not afford to lose her head. She would not fail Obi-Wan and Senator Organa like that. The forces at work were far larger than her petty fears. A flash of white crossed her vision. The troopers had moved down the hall. It was a matter of seconds before they encountered the nook. She leveled the blaster, waiting. "Look at that," one of the troopers spoke, voice drifting from just beyond her hiding spot. The clanking sound of armor could be heard as the others rushed to his position. Another clone commented, "An opening of some type." "Maintenance by the look of it." Padmé could no longer tell how many troopers were crowded outside. The synthetic voices emerging from the helmets all sounded alike. She tried to control her breathing, pushing down the urge to hyperventilate. This was it. The white armored foot of a trooper appeared in her sight. Never hesitating, she fired. The clone fell with a heavy clank to the ground. "What the…?" A series of exclamations echoed on the other side. After a few moments of confusion, the crimson guard spoke. "She's in there. Remember, the Chancellor does not want her harmed." The barrel of Padmé's gun remained raised at the alcove's entrance. One of the clones spoke, "Okay. Let's do this." The white armor scraped on the floor as the body was removed. Padmé glimpsed a flash of white. She fired again. A satisfying crash followed, but she was already firing at the next trooper. Blue stun bolts began to pelt the interior of the alcove. She dropped to the floor, still firing at the middle of the entrance. Her stream of red bolts never paused as a firestorm of red and blue lit up the alcove. She lost count of the number troopers she had downed, but they kept coming. Although the stun bolts were not jeopardizing her position, the small blaster was becoming alarmingly hot in her hand. She grabbed a fold of her dress to wrap around the hilt and trigger. Perhaps her clothes did have a use. An eternity seemed to pass before the blue bolts ceased and she could hear no noise from the corridor. Perhaps she had killed them all. Padmé shook her head. She didn't have that kind of range from this position. They were simply waiting for her to come out. Padmé was not interested in being lured into another trap. If they were going to wait, so would she. Keeping the blaster trained on the opening, she sat back against the wall. She felt a wave of exhaustion hit her. Had Anakin only arrived that afternoon? Years seemed to have passed since she had talked to Bail in the Palace Garden. Was that only the morning? Her eyes slipped shut as the events of the day rushed through her consciousness at an alarming rate. One day and everything had changed. "Senator Amidala?" Her eyes snapped open. She had let her focus slip. The Chancellor's guard stood before her. "It's a relief to find you alive." Padmé raised the blaster, preparing to fire. "I wouldn't do that if I were you." His voice was even, but his tone demanded compliance. "After all, we're only here to help you." "Like hell!" she snapped, unable to control herself. She tightened her finger over the trigger. "Senator Amidala, put down the blaster." He motioned behind to the clone troopers flanking him. "I wouldn't want to have to do anything… drastic." Padmé rose to her feet slowly, blaster unwavering. "If you really want to help me, I would suggest getting out of my way. I don’t want to kill more of you than I have to." The guard's head cocked to the side. The troopers moved forward leveling their blaster rifles at her. "I would discourage that course of action, Senator." Her eyes moved from one trooper to the next, silently calculating her chances. If she was quick and unpredictable, it would be possible. She took a deep breath. Jedi training would be useful right now. She kept her eyes focused on the scarlet guard. "I do not see any reason to resist further." "I'm glad you have come to see reason," he replied, holding his hand out for the blaster. Padmé let her blaster hand drop for a moment before firing four quick blasts at each of the troopers. They dropped to the floor with surprised grunts. She swung the weapon up to face the Chancellor's guard, but he was no longer in sight. She paused, unsure of how to proceed. The feel of cold metal against her throat elicited a gasp. She had taken her eyes off of him. For a moment, she could hear all of her defense instructors chastising her at once. Sabé's warm voice as she reminded a young queen of proper procedure lingered in her ears. Padmé had to resist groaning. She had let all of her basic training be thrown out the window in an instant. As a reward, the cold metal rested against her fluttering pulse. The guard's voice was thick with annoyance as he spoke. "Perhaps, Senator Amidala, you will be more agreeable now." The blade remained in place as he forcefully yanked her blaster from her grasp. His hands held her tightly, promising no escape, as he led her back out into the hallway. She tried to twist further away from the blade, but his robed body stopped her. Reconciling herself to the new situation, she whispered hoarsely, "Where are we going?" "We, Mi'lady, are going to Mustafar." He dug the blade deeper into her neck. "I suggest that you don't try anything. I am trained in many arts and believe me, while I am not permitted to kill you or wound you severely, I have no restriction on the amount of pain I may cause you." Padmé swallowed heavily. Mulling over her options, she nearly stumbled as a new idea occurred to her. Why hadn't she remembered earlier? Closing her eyes and letting her mind relax, she opened her senses. Unsure of the exact procedure for this type of thing, she simply tried to send her thoughts outward. <<Obi-Wan?>> For a moment, she was afraid nothing would happen. Maybe the connection only worked when the Jedi instigated it. Then the softly accented voice seeped into her mind. <<Padmé? What's wrong?>> Trying to ignore the blade dancing against her skin, she focused on the tendril of Obi-Wan's essence she could feel floating in her mind. <<Our escape mission has been ambushed. I've been taken prisoner by the Chancellor's guard. We're on our way to Mustafar. Don't do anything now. I think I'll be safe.>> Padmé could feel his growing unrest. <<If you think so. I don't want to make the Chancellor suspicious either. I should probably tell Anakin.>> <<No!>> Her thought was forceful and desperate. <<You can't tell him what's happened. If he finds out the Chancellor has me, he'll bend to Palpatine's every whim to get me back. We can't risk that. I can take of myself. Let Anakin think I've made it safely to Naboo.>> <<I understand where you're coming from, but I don't think that's a good idea.>> She could sense his reluctance to lie to Anakin. <<I can't lie to him. Not about something like this!>> <<There's more at work than either of us can possibly imagine,>> she insisted. <<I don't want to put you in this position, but it's for the safety of the Republic. Anakin's dangerous, Obi-Wan. I know what he's willing to do for me. Don't let him find out. He has to think I'm safe or everything we've worked for will be destroyed. Please, I'm begging you for the good of the Galaxy, don't tell him.>> A long pause ensued. Finally, the Jedi Master touched her mind again. << I am neither happy nor comfortable with this arrangement. Nevertheless, I know what you say is right. Take care of yourself and I will send someone after you when the time is right.>> <<Thank you.>> Padmé turned her attention back to the red guard's rough tugs. She had faith that Obi-Wan would handle the situation well. He was, after all, her only hope. -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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Venus_Star2-com Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 6/18/05 9:51pm Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	PAdmae....noooooooo.......they must tell anakin sooner or later becasue the longer the leave it---well he will be worse off...anyhoo GOOD part...please update soon rachel
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PadmeSolo Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 6/22/05 10:44am Subject: RE: Dawn of Darkness -EP III AU A/A and SO (Updated 6/8 9:29 PM)
	Venus_Star2-com: Not telling Anakin will certainly lead to a number of problems! Thank you! Update coming soon... I've written part of it. _PSK_ -----signature----- I'm finishing Dawn of Darkness -> http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3267659/1/
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