| Author |
Topic:
OVERCOME-- 9/9- Author's note/replies
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Anakins_Kiss
Registered:
Jan '06
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Date Posted:
12/31/07 5:33am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 12/22- (SIX) Meetings of the Mind
- Date Edited:
1/5 1:36pm (1 edits total)
Edited By:
Anakins_Kiss
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Captain Observant - Anakin is really getting the finger. Which happens to be the name of chapter ten. Its going to get alot worse before the turning point is reached.  hang on! Thanks for reading.
ROTSFAN - I seriously hoping that if this story is not over by 1/26 that atleast it is almost over by then. Its really hard to write and do school at the same time. I might start doing vignettes or something. Avaryce and Anakin are very jealous of each other, except one knows it and the other doesn't. 
Kelia - The council makes few mistakes, I think. But those mistakes are huges ones.
~~~~~
Seven – The Effect
“I think it’s safe to say that Palpatine has grown quite attached to the power he wields,” Bail remarked after reading the minutes of the meeting with Palpatine. Disappointed, he shook his head. “He will not step down without a dispute.” He looked at the senators seated with him and placed the datapad on the table before him.
“That’s an understatement,” Mon Mothma said. “Despite his diplomatic posturing, his intentions were never clearer. He will not step down nor will he remove the sector decree. He intends for the governors and moffs to replace the senate. The republic as well as democracy will fall.”
“And we can’t let that happen without a fight,” Fang Zar said, shaking his salt and peppered beard.
“I heartily agree. There is no time left for us to sit and discuss diplomatic maneuvers. We should take this time to begin gathering more support, financial and otherwise,” Bail said, resting his temple on the tip of his fingers.
The light of the mid afternoon sun illuminated Ter Taneel's gray eyes. “Otherwise?” She turned toward Bail curiously.
Fang leaned forward in his seat and rested his elbows on his knees. “We need to be as well connected and supported as Palpatine himself and that includes military support.”
“Do you think it will go that far?”
“It depends on how far Palpatine will take it," Mon continued, "But in case of anything, we should be prepared.”
“I have been thinking and re-thinking this whole situation," Padme finally spoke. She glanced at each person as she continued, "The separatists are not entirely made up of xenophobic or isolationist planets. Some that have seceded from the republic have done so because they are disillusioned by a corrupted senate. We represent a small percentage of senators who still possess integrity and are still devoted to democracy. What we do from this moment on, senators, could make us the third party in this conflict. Palpatine seems to be slowly introducing an imperialistic regime. The separatists are in this war for their own interests, which can weaken a republic that has been in place for thousands of years. If we intend to take any aggressive action now, we will have to prepare an offensive against Palpatine, as well as a defense against the Separatists.”
Fang, the oldest of the senators in room, responded, “We are in no position for that. Secretly gathering military forces will take a long while."
Terr said, “Then the only option is to gather influential and financial support.”
“We need to reach out to other politicians and influential leaders who are not afraid to stand against Palpatine and who are dedicated to the cause.”
“I agree, but that would mean exposing ourselves to some degree.” Bail raised an eyebrow.
“We’d have to be guarded of course. Still, some risk is necessary.” Mon said thoughtfully.
Terr furled her brow and looked around the room. "How would we do this without attracting negative attention?”
“We already have the perfect start,” Padme brightened. “The delegation is filled with politicians who feel the same way we do.”
“But can we count on them to go the distance?”
Mon rested her hands on the arms of the chair. “Like I said, exposure is a risk we must take. However, we must choose how much exposure we will allow. Some will not want to go as far as we will, and others will.”
“I have it on good authority that the high council was not pleased the senate elected Palpatine as their administrator,” Padme offered. “Perhaps we can secretly ally ourselves with them.”
“Nonsense!" Fang straightened in his seat. The old man was well known for his passion and his practicality. He didn't believe in waisting time on hopeless attempts. He continued on poking the arm of his chair with his finger as he spoke, "How can they be expected to work with us against the chancellor? The Jedi do not trust politicians.”
Bail raised his head from this fingertips, “And who can blame them? Look at the senate. Look at the courts. The entire system is overrun with degradation.”
“We do not know where they stand on the matter of removing Palpatine from power or on methods we may elect. How can we trust them?”
“Senator, as we speak, they are fighting a war for the republic.” Mon’s voice was soft yet firm.
“A republic with a corrupted and broken government,” Fang added wryly.
Bail sighed, "Whatever their prejudices are, they have always been dedicated to peace and democracy. They served the republic for over a thousand years. Trusting a Jedi has never been an issue for politicians.”
“They are in the same position we are," Mon explained, "They fight against the Separatists. There is much tension between the chancellor and the council.”
Fang slowly shook his head, “Just because there is tension between them, does not indicate a willingness or an inclination to move against the chancellor, passively or aggressively.”
Padme looked at Fang. “We could use the same approach with them as we did in meeting with Palpatine," she glanced at Bail and Terr, "let’s set up a one on one with a council member.”
There were several moments of silence, while all the other four considered the idea.
Bail nodded his head finally and said, “I am friends with Master Kenobi, he sits on the high council. I will meet with him as soon as possible and see where it goes.”
“That sounds like a splendid idea.” Mon looked at Bail appreciatively.
Fang remained silent still considering the idea. He stroked his curly beard and cast a thoughtful gaze toward the window of Bail's office. He too nodded his head and said in reconsideration, “Having the Jedi as an ally would be a great asset, but we still need more support.”
“The Critical Mass.” Terr lifted her gaze from the carpeted floor and looked at everyone.
Fang raised his eyebrows, “Excuse me?”
“The Critical Mass Fundraiser,” Terr eyes widened as the idea grew in her mind. Well known for her radical ideas, she was the youngest of the delegation members. “The annual senatorial ball next week is the perfect venue.”
“For what, my dear?”
Terr raised a finger for each group she called out, “Politicians, judges, dignitaries, investors, and influential people of all kind will be there." She was excited about the idea and a smile started to form across plump rosy cheeks. "This could be our perfect opportunity to network and feel out some of them and see if they can devote themselves to the cause.”
“There won’t be a huge turn out." Fang shook his head. "With the war in full swing, no one is going to want to go to a ball now.”
“But this is a fundraiser for the war effort. Its an opportunity for philanthropists and everyone else attending to grab some positive publicity. We all know you can never have too much positive publicity. For politicians, it means a higher approval rating and more votes for the next election. For businessmen, positive press means more business relations, exchanges and more revenue. There is a positive outcome for everyone attending. The place will be packed. Everyone will go."
“Including Palpatine’s supporters,” Mon remarked with concern.
“Didn’t you say a certain level of risk is necessary?” Terr pointed out. “We can network with the members of the delegation as well as the other attendees. We can covertly piggyback our cause to this benefit.”
Padme smiled, "I like the idea. It's typical Terr—Radical and Refreshing and Resourceful."
“The ball is actually the perfect start for us," Bail said in agreement. "Gathering our full strength will not easy. Right now Palpatine has a huge head start. We have to move quickly.”
“We would have to be extremely careful. We cannot just approach anyone, nor can we allow too many people know of this."
“Moreover, there is a need for everyone to be tight lipped about what we are doing and discussing. For everyone involved in this, everything is at stake…including lives.”
Bail looked around at everyone. “Anything regarding organizational activities must be a tightly guarded secret. For our own safety and that of our friends, we can’t share any of this with anyone outside of this group, including loved ones. Agreed?” He raised his eyebrows expectantly.
There was an immediate response of nodding heads and muttered words of agreement from three of the senators. One hesitated, seemingly uncomfortable with the terms.
Resigning, Padme nodded reluctantly and said, “Agreed.”
~~~~~~
Walking along the temple corridor, Obi-Wan had to move faster to keep pace with Anakin. He could almost see the waves of heat radiating through his aura. He had never seen Anakin that upset before. Through the entire council session, Anakin remained silent and still, save for his gloved finger that slowly and constantly tapped the arm of his chair. Obi-Wan watched him intermittently during the session, seeing his hardened cerulean gaze bore a hole through the wall opposite him while he brooded about the injustice he received. As soon as session was over, Anakin was the first out of the door.
“This is unacceptable.” Anakin spoke through clenched teeth, extending his long legs to its full length in every step.
“Anakin…” Obi-Wan started.
“Why do they continue to hold me back!” He yelled in frustration.
“Anakin…” Obi-Wan started again.
“Council Liaison?” Anakin stopped abruptly, finally looking at him.
Not expecting him to stop short, Obi-Wan stopped after the second or third step and turned.
“It’s not fair! I am the most qualified of all the candidates. I am the most skilled. I have done things most knights could not do alone. It’s insulting!” He glared at him with quick breaths passing through his nose.
“Anakin, calm down.”
Anakin continued, “How can you expect me to calm down? I have done everything they asked of me. Do they think I’m not worthy?”
Obi-Wan said as he shortened the distance between them. “You are the youngest knight to ever be considered a place in the council. It is an honor. You should be humbled by this.”
“HUMBLE?” Anakin grimaced. “There has never been a council liaison in the history of the Order. Why would they suddenly create such a position? In spite of my success, they bar me from advancing. How can you expect me to be humble?”
“You must understand that this is a delicate time for the Order and the republic.” In calm voice, Obi-Wan continued as he slowly shook his head. “You are looking at this all wrong, Anakin.”
Anakin was terse. “Explain it to me, Obi-Wan, because I can’t figure it out.”
Obi-Wan dropped his gaze to floor and sighed heavily. He regretted what he was about to say. It was like one bad turn after another would further alienate his friend from the council. He recognized a bit of Qui gon’s defiance in Anakin and part of him appreciated it. However, the difference between the two was what seemed to put Obi-Wan at ill ease. Anakin was caught in a whirlwind. Obi-Wan folded his arms as he carefully measured his words.
As he started, he met Anakin hardened gaze, “The council is very suspicious of the chancellor and I am certain the feeling is mutual. And so, there is a need to keep an eye on him. You were selected as council liaison because you are closest to him and the only one he completely trusts.”
“Go on…,” he urged.
“You are expected to report to the council of any matter the chancellor is involved in. It’s nothing against you, Anakin. You must understand this.”
Anakin turned his back towards him, facing the windows that lined corridors. He didn’t speak at first as it seemed he was processing everything that was just revealed to him. Obi-Wan knew that this mission placed Anakin in a difficult position. Despite, his discomfort with this, he understood it had to be done.
“I understand this very well,” Anakin finally spoke, keeping his gaze at the cityscape beyond the window. With restrained anger in his voice, he went on, “They want to placate the chancellor’s suspicions and make him think the council trusts him and his judgment. They want me to spy on him. All of this is a deception and is considered treasonous.” He looked over his shoulder at the Jedi master.
“The council has reason to believe that the chancellor may be up to something.” Obi-Wan explained.
“That is nonsense.” He spat out, and turned back to the window.
“Palpatine has gained more power than he should have and he has grown quite accustomed to it.”
Anakin folded his arms. “The senate voted him more power.”
Obi-Wan continued desperately to make Anakin understand the reason behind their suspicions of Palpatine. “Use your feelings. There is something at work here beyond what is obvious to see. This war is fueling his power. There is speculation that he may not step down when the time comes.”
Anakin huffed and angrily glanced at him. “Is this how the council explains their treasonous behavior?”
He swallowed, “It’s a necessary evil.”
“A necessary evil.” Anakin repeated with a mirthless chuckle. He cast his blue eyes to the floor and shook his head.
“We are at war, Anakin. There are times when we will have to do things outside of what is expected. You should know this best of all.”
Anakin looked at Obi-Wan and said, “The chancellor has done nothing wrong. He is a good person, and he only wants what’s best for the republic.”
“I understand that this may be a difficult task, but you are a Jedi knight and you must do as the council mandates regardless of your reluctance or your reservations.”
With a lift of his eyebrows, he turned back to the window, and replied facetiously.
“Well, I am glad you are willing to admit it.”
“What?”
“A knight who has done so much and who has so much potential, called ‘The hero with no fear’, is nothing more than the council’s messenger boy and pawn…” He stepped around Obi-Wan in a huff and muttered, “Chosen one.” He started down the hall.
Obi-Wan turned around and said, “Anakin, regardless of the issues you have with what the council has decided, your first loyalty is to the Order.”
Anakin stopped and looked back at him. “Obi-Wan, my loyalty has always been with the Order, but it’ s difficult reconciling loyalty to hypocrisy. It feels like I am being singled out because of my friendship with someone deemed suspicious. Suddenly my loyalty means nothing.” He sounded very disillusioned.
Obi-Wan finally realized a thing that only intensified his concerns. Anakin was trapped by divided loyalties. He was unwilling to consider the common trait of most politicians—deception. He was now in the middle of the tension between the council and the chancellor, and Obi-Wan could do nothing to help. But there was something more going with Anakin than just what happened in the council chambers.
Something had gotten under his skin. Obi-Wan could sense that since Dooku's death, he had been slightly different. He didn't laugh as much and he was quieter, often by himself brooding about at matter he called "nothing". Since the death of his mother, Anakin refused to discuss troubling matters with him. It was the start of the rift that would grow wider and wider. Other than offering advise, there was nothing Obi-Wan could do make things any easier. “It’s not like that Anakin. I am on your side. I didn’t want this for you.”
“I have been on the council’s side from the beginning. But, it doesn’t really matter, does it?” Anakin continued toward temple exit.
The gap between the two friends grew further and further apart as Anakin’s silhouette shrank into the distance. Obi-Wan could not deny the sinking feeling that this was an omen. Something bad was going to result from this. Despite knowing that the past should stay where it is, Obi-Wan couldn’t help blaming himself for Anakin being heavily influenced by Palpatine.
He remembered moments when Anakin would wander off to see the chancellor and times when he allowed Anakin to meet with him. He told himself, that instead, he should have constantly reminded Anakin not to trust politicians, and not to let his guard down around them. He should have instructed him from the time he was a young boy that politicians use deception the way Jedi use a lightsaber. Obi-Wan regretfully rubbed his beard with his hand as he went through all the ‘if onlys’ and all the ‘I should'ves’. None of that made him feel any better. None of that would change what the reality is. It was a reality he never expected…he was losing Anakin.
~~~~~~
Obi-Wan entered the main corridor of the senate office building. He had hoped that perhaps Padme could shed some light on any matter that could be troubling Anakin. The corridor was practically empty as it was nearing the end of the day. The lamps adorning alternating pillars gradually gained more light as night fell. As Obi-Wan continued along, he spotted a shadow in the corner of his eye. It was the shape of a woman partially hidden behind pillar. He stopped, sensing it was Padme. He thought it was odd of her to be there. She was always, going here or there. Unless she was in a meeting or at home, Padme was difficult to pin down. He walked toward her and called her name, “Padme?”
In surprise, her head snapped in his direction. “Obi-Wan!” She was agape. For seconds she seemed as if she didn’t know whether to panic or smile. She seemed to have momentarily forgotten her senatorial reserve, but Padme quickly recovered.
“How are you?”
He smiled, “I am well. It has been a while since I last saw you. How are things?” Obi-Wan sensed another presence with her and caught a glimpse of the person as his gaze shifted to her left. His eyebrows raised, “Oh, I do apologize. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”
Padme glanced at the man standing beside her and said, “No—no. Don’t be silly. I was just…” She stopped short and said, “I am sure you two remember each other.” She grinned uncomfortably. “Palo this is…”
“Master Kenobi, a pleasure to see you again,” Palo smiled pleasantly.
Obi-Wan bowed his head respectfully, “It’s good to see you too, Palo.”
Watching the exchange, Padme smiled and said, “Uh, Obi-Wan, may I have a word with you?”
“Of course.” Obi-Wan detected some urgency in her tone.
Padme turned to Palo and said softly, “Excuse me, Palo. I’ll only be a moment.”
As they took several steps out of Palo’s earshot, Obi-Wan could sense there was something different about her. It couldn’t have been the way she wore her hair, she always wore elaborate hairstyles. He immediately ruled-out cosmetics, she barely wore any unless there was a formal function. It was nothing that could be seen, but rather something that could be felt. He noticed that her aura carried a minute disparity. It was illusive and could have been easily overlooked by any Jedi, but yet it was there. While Padme spoke, he searched the force for an explanation.
Padme began, “Obi-Wan, I need to ask a favor of you.”
He nodded, concerned. “Sure.” He studied her still trying to figure out what it was that was so different.
She began carefully weighing her words, “I am certain you are aware of Anakin’s feelings for me.”
Realizing the topic, he raised his chin. “Actually I am very aware.” He folded his arms. “He is quite fond of you. I thought that it would diminish with time, but it seems to have done the opposite.”
“I know that being a Jedi, he is forbidden to fall in love.”
“That’s right.” He nodded. “It can lead to attachment, and attachment can lead to a darker path.”
“I don’t want to make things worse.” She shook her head and cast her brown eyes to the floor.
“How could you?” He furled his brow.
“I care for him, Obi-Wan,” She said dejectedly as she slowly met his gaze, “I do…but just as a friend. Nothing more.” She slowly shook her head.
At that moment, he sensed an imperceptible string in the force, pure, new and bright.
That must be the cause of the disparity in her aura, he thought. It was still unusual that it would affect her aura, even though it was off by a hair’s width.
True to his Jedi reserve, Obi-Wan did not show any reaction. “I seem to recall a time when you returned his feelings.”
She took a deep shaky breath, “I am sorry to say that for me, it has diminished with time.” She shifted her weight and explained, “I came to realize that I could not expect him to put his career as a Jedi in jeopardy. I did not want to be the cause of conflict in Anakin’s life. So I chose to move on. I am with Palo now and we love each other very much. I’ve recently discovered that he and I are expecting a child.” She brought up her hand to rest over her abdomen.
Obi-Wan’s gaze followed her hand and a smile slowly formed. “Congratulations, Padme. ” Though he was happy for her, he couldn’t deny the sinking feeling in his stomach. This news would wound Anakin deeply. Obi-Wan hoped that he would open up to him and allow his help.
“Thank you.” She said with sad smile.
He considered if perhaps, Anakin knew of this already. It may be the part of what had been troubling him. “Does Anakin know?”
She shook her head, “Not yet. I know this will hurt him when he finds out. So I must ask you…Please do not mention any of this to him. I want to tell him myself. If he found out some other way…”
“He would be devastated.” Obi-Wan finished, nodding. “I know.” He realized that if Anakin had known, his demeanor would have been far worse. He probably would have gone A.W.O.L.
Tears pricked her eyes as she said apologetically, “I know the two of you are like brothers. I didn’t want to put you in this position, Obi-Wan.”
“I understand. It’s not my place to say anything, Padme.” He placed a hand on her shoulder and said, “I care about both of you very much and I don’t want to see either of you hurt. Just don’t wait too long to tell him. I don’t want to be the one to tell him.”
“I know, I will tell him soon.” She nodded. “In time, I am sure he’ll understand it was better this way...I hope.”
Obi-Wan removed his hand from her shoulder and clasped his wrists in the sleeves of his robe. “Me too,” he added distantly.
He realized at moment, he and Anakin now shared the same predicament. As much as he worried about Anakin's difficult position between the council and the chancellor, he was also in a difficult position between his two closest friends. Obi-Wan could only pray to the force that Anakin would have the strength to overcome this difficult time. He remembered the times while they were away at war, when Anakin would lie awake staring into nothing or off somewhere gazing into the distant stars. He knew Anakin wasn’t meditating, he was thinking of Padme. Suddenly the sinking feeling that seemed to linger with Obi-Wan, intensified.
TBC…
NEXT:
Eight - Sucks to be Anakin
Anakin catches Padme in another lie. Avaryce sets his plan in motion.
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Anakins_Fallen_Angel
Registered:
May '07
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Date Posted:
12/31/07 5:59am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 12/31- (Seven) Effect
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I love all the twists in this story haha, but Padme Padme Padme   How could you?? Haha Great Story and Update!! nd thanks for PM
Can I bludger Palo over the head with something...heavy haha Thennnn we could knock sense into Padme. I like how you've written her here, Padme's one of my favourite characters and in this story you've made me hate her which is something i thought not possible...Congrats!
Update Soon?!?! 
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ROTSFan
Registered:
Jul '06
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Date Posted:
12/31/07 7:14am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 12/31- (Seven) Effect
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If you're trying to get me to hate Padme, it's working.  Of all the low down dirty "politician" things she could do to screw someone over...and using her pregnancy to manipulate Anakin! So typical of a politician to lie and cheat.
Anakin stopped and looked back at him. “Obi-Wan, my loyalty has always been with the Order, but it’ s difficult reconciling loyalty to hypocrisy. It feels like I am being singled out because of my friendship with someone deemed suspicious. Suddenly my loyalty means nothing.” He sounded very disillusioned.
Obi-Wan finally realized a thing that only intensified his concerns. Anakin was trapped by divided loyalties. He was unwilling to consider the common trait of most politicians—deception.
So true. Without Padme's loyalty, I have to say, I'd probably willingly fall to darkness too if I were Anakin. Is there any way for this story to end but darkly? It doesn't seem there are any hopeful prospects for Anakin's future. 
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 Fics in profile; ask me to unlock ~I did nothing. I did absolutely nothing, and it was everything I hoped it would be." - Office Space
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KELIA
Title: Moderator: Fan Fiction
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
1/1 10:54am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 12/31- (Seven) Effect
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Padme, Padme, Padme
You should at least have the guts to tell Anakin yourself.
I don't relish Obi-Wan's task, but I can't wait to read it!
Great update
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Anakins_Kiss
Registered:
Jan '06
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Date Posted:
1/11 6:41am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 1/11- (Eight) SUCKS TO BE ANAKIN
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Kelia - Padme definitely put him in a tough position. I am certain most of us have been caught between two friends with a secrt.
ROTSFAN - You know, I am tempted to say more but...The story will have a dark ending but there are a few bright spots.
Anakins_Fallen_Angel - Padme should get something knocked into her.
EIGHT – Sucks to be Anakin
Since the day he lost his mother, Anakin needed her more now than ever. It was a desperate reach for his anchor to keep him grounded. Despite her obvious deceptions, despite her distant behavior toward him, he was ready to push all of that aside and lean on her. He needed her support, her wisdom, her kind and comforting words. He was confused and hurting from the insult the council delivered him. Obi-Wan couldn’t understand what he felt. Padme was the only one who could give him what he needed and help him heel.
He didn’t realize how fast he had arrived at the senatorial office building until he was walking along the corridor toward her office. Anakin dipped and dodged through the lanes of traffic to get here. At times he had to remind himself he was amongst civilians, not battle droids trying to maneuver for a better shot. He didn’t care how it would look for him to be seeing her at this hour. He already devised an excuse if any asked questions. The pounding sensation in his mind begged for her to make it better. Padme was the source of his strength and there was no better time for her to help him than now. She could make sense of all this.
Just before her office door, he slowed his pace and leaned against the wall. Filled with disappointment and outrage, he attempted to compose himself enough not to alarm anyone that may be there. He took several deep breathes and shut his eyes tight.
He thought of Padme’s brown eyes that were as deep as the chasms of Utapau. He thought of her long brown tendrils that smelled of Nubian jasmine in the morning. He thought of her lips that reminded him where he belonged. He loved her kiss. He thought of holding her and found his center. Anakin opened his eyes and approached the door.
The door immediately lifted revealing a large reception area. It was dark, save for a patch of light over a desk in the center of the room. A woman of the same size and shape of his wife stood with her back turned, fumbling with the things on the desk. Dorme turned around and smiled as he approached her. “Good Evening, Knight Skywalker. You’ve been away a long time. I am glad to see you’ve returned safe and sound.”
“Thank you, Dorme. It’s good to be back. I missed a lot, I’ll enjoy catching up.” He looked around the room sensing that Padme was not there. “It seems I’ve come too late.”
“I’m just straightening up before I leave.” She asked pleasantly, “are you looking for Padme?”
“Yes, I knew Padme would be working late tonight. I thought I’d drop in and check on her since I was nearby,” Anakin smirked. “I guess I should’ve come earlier.”
“Oh! I‘m sorry. She didn’t come in today.”
He furled his brow. “Are you sure?”
“Yes. She wasn’t scheduled to come in today. There’s really nothing here that needs her immediate attention.” She sat down in her chair and activated a virtual screen that appeared over her desk. It was a large event planner fully equipped with a switchboard. She pressed a button in on her lower left. The screen shifted from the days of the month to the hours in the day. She narrowed her eyes and quickly read the small writing in designated time slots. “She’s had two meetings today. The last one should have ended about 2 standard hours ago.” She looked at him through the screen.
“Who was she meeting with?” The question was uttered before Anakin could consider how strange it was for him to ask that. He took several steps closer.
Pulling the corner of her mouth to one side, she said thoughtfully, “I shouldn’t say, but since it’s you …” Dorme lightly tapped the hour where the meeting in question was written. She furled her brow, “Hmmm.”
“What is it?”
“I’m sorry. It doesn’t say who she met with.” She shrugged her shoulders. “It just says she has a meeting.”
His furled brow suddenly disappeared and his mouth opened slightly. Immediately Anakin thought of reasons for her deception, but none of them made any sense. It felt like frustration and his anger would blow a hole in his chest. He took a deep breath and turned his shoulder toward her. He rubbed his temples with a gloved hand and exhaled.
“Are you alright? You don’t look so good.”
He dropped his hand and shook his head. “I’m fine thanks.” He looked out of the window to the offered view of Coruscant.
Dorme remained silent as she continued to watch him through the screen
“A meeting, huh?” Anakin said breaking the brief silence. He smiled politely and said, “ Thank you, Dorme.” He turned on his heels and walked toward the door.
“You’re welcome,” she replied slowly.
Several paces from the door, Anakin stopped and looked at her over his shoulder, “One more thing…”
“Yes?” Her eyebrows raised.
“I’m curious. Did you call her last night?” He already knew the answer, but he had to hear it from her mouth. He didn’t want to believe his suspicion.
Dorme looked at him curiously and answered as if waiting for his questions to make sense.
“No, I-I didn’t.”
He dropped his gaze to the floor and clenched his teeth. His worse fears were confirmed. Padme lied to his face. He knew that before he came by the office. He just didn’t want to believe it. Anakin remembered all her talk about honesty and trust. Unbidden, a soft whisper in his mind uttered a horrible thing that strangely made sense to him.
She is nothing but a hypocrite and a liar. She’s just as treacherous as the council. Padme cannot be trusted.
He continued toward the door. “You have a good night, Dorme.”
He heard her quickly stand. “Is she in any trouble?” There was fear in her voice.
She didn’t hear the answer he muttered as he walked through the door, “she’s about to be.”
~~~
The torrential downpour beat savagely against the cockpit dome as the starfighter remained perched on the drenched landing platform. He looked up and saw a bluish white crooked line reach across the sky in a flash and disappear. The ground seemed to shake with it as the characteristic cracking and rolling sound accompanied. Water cascaded down the cockpit dome blurring the world outside. He began punching buttons and waited for a sign that his transmission was being received. Finally, a small bluish white image of Darth Sidious appeared on the communications console.
“What is it, Avaryce?”
Revently Avaryce bowed at the neck and said, “Master, she has delivered to me the documents you requested.”
“Excellent,” the dark lord said, “After the location of General Grievous has been made known to the council, you will give them to Windu.”
“Yes, my lord.”
“This is beginning of the end for Skywalker. Prepare yourself.”
“Of course, my lord,” Avaryce said as the transmission ended. He chuckled maliciously adding, “you know I will.” He raised his eyes from the console to the gates of Tipoca City. The water blurred the view but his gaze never wavered. He was certain of the success of this plan. He believed his destiny was on the other side of that door and all he needed to do was walk through it.
~~~
The doors pulled away from each other with a hiss unleashing a bright light against the bitter dark, cold and wetness of Kamino. At first, all Avaryce could see was just the bright light, but it waned as a tall thin silhouette grew into view.
Long arms and legs extended from a slender torso. Atop of an elongated neck was the head baring a double clefted nose and two large black orb-like eyes. With no visible expression on the face, a soft voice graceful and pleasant sailed out. “Greetings, Master Lindo, you’ve arrived right on time. My name is Taun We. I am the assistant to the prime minister. He is expecting you.” She extended her long arm gesturing him to enter. Please, follow me.”
He followed the sylphic being through the corridors of Tipoca City, through winding bright corridors and great halls. Everything about the city seemed to be bathed in white light and gave the appearance sterility. He followed Taun We through a door to what appeared to be a sitting room. Tear drop shaped chairs hung from the ceiling and was illuminated as well. He moved further into the room to see an even taller being standing to greet him.
Taun We began the introductions. “May I present to you the Prime Minister of Kamino, Lama Su…” She glanced toward Avaryce and said, “And this is Jedi Master Avaryce Lindo. He has requested to meet with you regarding a service he would like us to provide.”
Avaryce bowed at the mention of his name.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Master Lindo. Please be seated,” Lama Su said taking his seat.
“Can I get you anything?” Taun We offered.
“No, thank you,” Avaryce said with a smile and sat down.
“If you’ll excuse me.” Taun We turned and exited the room.
Avaryce watched her leave, and turned to Lama Su. “Thank you giving me your time, prime minister.”
“I am sure your journey was long. Would you like us to provide you with accommodations?”
“No, thank you. That will not be necessary,” Avaryce shook his head.
“I am pleased to know that word of our skill has reached your ears and peaked your interest, Master Lindo.” Lama Su leaned back in the seat. “So as policy dictates, I must inform you up front that the fee for our services will be substantial. Our standards for excellence are very high, which is why we remain the best in our field.”
“I assure you, prime minister, resource is not an issue.” Avaryce smiled slightly.
“Very good,” he said with a slight nod. “I am certain you will be more than satisfied with the finished product. The quality of our clones is surpassed by none.”
“I have seen your work myself actually. I believe its quite compelling…astonishing. But—um ...” He raised an eyebrow, “cloning is not why I am here.”
“Oh?” Lama Su leaned forward, intrigued.
“Kaminoans possess a skill other than cloning that I am interested in.” Avaryce rubbed his chin as he spoke. “During the process of cloning, isolating and removing certain elements or genetic coding deemed undesirable is performed. Am I right?” he asked with a lift of his brow.
“Why, yes. The ability to alter genetic coding is essential to the cloning process. Any cloner can duplicate a being. The key lies in the ability to make a wide range of modifications to it, from the simplest to the most complex.”
“Is it possible to transfer these elements into a new host?” Avaryce asked with narrowed eyes.
“In most cases, yes.” Lama Su paused, tilting his head slightly to one side. He blinked his black orbs and asked, “What exactly is the service you require?”
Avaryce leaned back in his seat and neatly knitted his fingers together. He sighed and said, “Before I answer that, I must request that this entire matter, even this discussion, be kept a closely guarded secret.”
“We have served many satisfied clients, Master Jedi. Rest assured confidentiality is always guaranteed.”
Avaryce nodded his acceptance. He paused before asking, “How much do you know about midichlorians?”
“Midichlorians are symbiotes that require a host to survive. They are a necessity for the existence of all life. A large concentration of these symbiotes would offer certain benefits for the host. The Jedi are proof of this.”
“Prime Minister, I want to extract the midichlorians from one donor and integrate them into my own cellular structure.”
Lama Su straightened and said, “Well, I must say you are the first to request such a service from us. The procedure is not completely unheard of. There have been many attempts to accomplish this feat and many failures to go with them. Genetic manipulation is a skill not anyone can perform.” He tented his long fingers together and said, “Yes, we are willing and fully capable of performing this procedure for you, Master Jedi, and I am certain you will be very much pleased with the results. However, there are several conditions you must consider.”
Avaryce raised his chin in anticipation.
“In symbiosis, bonding occurs instantly. However, once bonded, separation is very difficult and extremely excruciating. “
“Pain is a price I am willing to pay, prime minister.”
“Oh no, though there will be some discomfort for you as the recipient, the actual pain is reserved for the original host. Since life and midichlorians form a symbiotic relationship, extracting a large amount will certainly kill the original host.”
“The host’s survival is irrelevant to me,” Avaryce said nonchalantly. “But I am curious, prime minister, if a large extraction will kill the host, what will prevent the midichlorians from dying as well? How can they survive at all outside a host?”
“We have technology that will allow them to survive a short while outside of their habitat. Therefore the extraction and transmission process must be performed quickly.”
“And the chances of success?”
“Chances?” Lama Su was surprised at the question. “Master Lindo with this procedure there are no chances only certainties. We will succeed where others have failed. Success of such a procedure is certain depending on the midichlorian count and the age of the host.”
Avaryce furled his brow. “Depending on the count and the age of the host?”
“The midichlorian count must be no less than ten thousand and the minimum age requirement is one standard year. If the count and the age were any lower, success would no longer be guaranteed.”
This presented a wrinkle in Avaryce’s plans. He considered the outcome of pushing ahead with a donor who did not meet one of the requirements. “If this procedure fails, can I have it repeated?”
“Yes, but it would be against our advisement. Assimilating from more than one donor can destabilize your molecular structure and will begin to degrade. This procedure should be done only once.”
Avaryce dropped his gaze. It annoyed him greatly that this would cause such a delay. It pushed him dangerously close to repeating Count Dooku’s mistake in waiting too long to take action. As his mind stretched in all directions for alternatives, he realized there was no other donor more suitable than the one he had chosen. Finally he resigned to having no other choice but to wait. If he learned anything from Sidious, it was not to be too meticulous. This was just the beginning stages of his plan. If it were to work, he would have to adapt to whatever twists and turns that lie ahead.
Lama Su asked, “Do you have a donor with a large midichlorian count?”
Still thinking about the age requirement, he responded without looking up. “Yes, a count with a potential to be over twenty thousand.”
“Oh my! Well that is indeed considerable. May I ask the age of your donor?”
Avaryce sighed, “My donor is not yet born.” He turned his lavender gaze toward him and asked, “Why must it be at least a year old?”
“The host must be old enough to withstand the procedure and survive long enough to allow a significant extraction. Otherwise, the midichlorians will expire with the host.”
At that moment, it had occurred to Avaryce that he would need to keep a close eye on his prey. When the time was right, he would find her and pluck the offspring from her as soon as it was born. The child would be the perfect instrument for his rise to power. He rubbed his chin in thought. His chosen donor was worth the wait.
Avaryce asked with keen interest, “I’m also aware that various types of weaponry and tactical equipment are produced here.”
“That’s right—some of the best, might I add. Are you interested in something?”
“Yes, I require something very small, particularly for galactic positioning.”
~~~
It wasn’t too long after Anakin arrived home that she walked through the front door. She paused in the foyer, not caring to turn on the lights yet and immediately removed her shoes. She sighed with pleasure, and a smile started to form from relief. But it was short lived when a cold and irritated voice startled her.
“You’ve had a long day, Padme.”
Brown eyes hastily searched in the direction it came from and saw nothing. Slowly, he emerged from the shadows in the room, and stepped into the moonlight cascading in through the verandah. He leaned against the wall near the entrance, watching her intently.
A broad smile slowly stretched across an angelic visage. She turned on the lights and crossed the living room toward him. “A long day if spent without you.” She kissed him on the check. “And it was very busy one too.”
She unfastened the clasp around her neck and removed her cloak. Her curved abdomen was barely visible beneath the gown she wore. She turned and walked toward the closet.
It came as no surprise to Anakin that her words and actions were without sincerity. The words—proof of her improvisational prowess. The kiss—given unwillingly. A forced effort. Anakin was growing more distressed with every breath she took. Padme consistently failed to notice that she was at the epicenter of the dense fog in Anakin’s mind. She hummed a familiar tune as she moved about the couches fixing and adjusting the throw pillows. She didn’t seem to have a care in the world, while he brooded about the growing expanse between them. Annoyed at her continued assault on his emotions and intelligence, Anakin decided to confront her. “I came by your office today to see you.” His voice was unusually calm.
She picked up a water sprayer and walked toward the plants along the wall. She replied sweetly, “You-you did? I am sorry I missed you.” She started spraying the leaves of one plant. Even though she excelled at hiding her emotions and intentions, he could sense that this was a calculated effort to make him believe she was completely at ease and free of a guilty conscious.
Anakin narrowed his eyes. He said, “I spoke to Dorme just before she left for the day. She said you never came in. I thought you had a lot of work to do.” He took several steps toward her.
“I do,” she said chuckling and glancing at him. “The conference was early in the morning, and there was one or two meetings that were short notice. I couldn’t get out of them.” She moved to two steps away from Anakin to another plant. “This is how my work gets backed up. It can’t be helped, Ani.”
“Meetings.” He repeated the word grimly, realizing there was more to that than what she was saying. “I see. ”
She smiled, attempting to soften the mood. “Were you worried?” She lowered her chin and met his gaze through her eyelashes.
He ignored her attempt and folded his arms. “I haven’t known you to conduct senatorial duties so late in the night.”
“You know how it is. When duty calls, I must answer.” She said casually.
He recognized the advent of political coyness, and it angered him to know she’d use it on him. It was an unspoken understanding between them. He would never use the force to manipulate her. Anakin expected she would show the same respect. Like chattering teeth, whispers reverberated off the walls of his mind, manifesting despite the fog.
Perhaps she thinks me too dull to see her for what she really is. She’s a politician, and all politicians lie without prejudice or discretion. She is no different. It’s her nature.
The thought hurt, partly because a growing measure of himself believed it. He reacted immediately as if it were a reflex to sudden injury. He closed the distance between them with one step. “Why are you home so late?” With a hardened cerulean gaze fixed on her, he demanded an answer.
Padme was visibly startled by his sudden menacing tone. She looked up at him agape with widened eyes. Despite her effort to disguise her apprehension with shock, Anakin could sense the chill going down her spine. She carefully put the water spray down on the plant stand.
Anakin raised his voice, “The last meeting was over almost three standard hours ago. Why did it take you all this time to come home?” His lips were pressed into a thin line a as he waited for her answer.
Finally able to find her resolve, she responded slowly as if filling with righteous indignation, “I stopped to see a friend…What is going on? Am I under investigation?” She placed a hand over her abdomen. It was a strategic move.
It was enough to Anakin give him pause to re-evaluate his approach. He remembered the way he handled things his first night came back home. Anakin checked himself and swallowed. There were too many inconsistencies with her. He didn’t imagine her strange behavior and he knew for a fact that Padme lied to him. She has been distant with him on several occasions, not wanting to be too close or kiss him like she used to. He considered himself as a reason. Did I do something to make her behave this way?
Frustrated, he ran his gloved hand through his tawny locks. “Forgive me, I-I was a little worried. That’s all.”
Anakin realized losing his temper would not reveal or solve anything. He questioned whether he could trust anything that came out of her mouth. Suddenly a thought that Anakin recently rebuked, returned. It made more sense this time.
It’s all her fault. She continues to insult me with her lies. She is making a fool me. I can’t allow her to hold me back.
Before he could banish the thought, he glanced at her hand that remained over her abdomen. There on her wrist was a bracelet, simply made with wooden beads, each embedded with a small jewel. It was the first time he saw her wear it. It didn’t look like anything she would choose if it were amongst many. It just wasn’t Padme’s style. He remembered the conversation he walked in on last night and suddenly felt his heart quiver with fear. He was almost too afraid to ask, but he couldn’t help it. He had to know.
He furled his brow, asking softly, “What’s that?” He looked up at her.
“What?”
“That bracelet,” he said glancing at it again.
“Oh, this is just something I saw in a merchant’s shop.”
Anakin swallowed hard and closed his eyes. He felt it stirring again. Another tremor rippled through him like a pebble disturbing placid waters. The affect of her provocation gave Anakin alarm. Something was banging against the walls of his mind, begging to be set free, promising to take it all away if given a chance. An angry whisper insisted she was betraying him with another man and it demanded that she answer for it.
“Ani?” Her soft concerned voice chimed in.
Part of him couldn’t accept that she’d betray him. Not Padme. She has been there from the beginning. She loved him and remained his despite his absences, despite the chance that he could have been killed at war. Padme is a good woman and he knew that she’d honor her wedding vow. He couldn’t allow himself to believe it.
She loves me. She always has.
However, the fact is undeniable—he could not sense sincerity in her nor could he sense that she loved him. He opened his eyes.
She was different tonight. She was cold, hard, and calculating. The woman I wake up next to is completely different from the woman I see during the day. She’s changed.
“Anakin? Are you alright?” She raised a cautious hand to his cheek.
He nodded and stepped just out of her reach. “I have a headache.” Angry, frustrated and confused, he didn’t want her touching him.
“Can I get you anything?”
“No. I just need to rest…that’s all.” Anakin turned way from her without a word and walked toward the stairs leading to the bedroom.
“I love you, Ani and I am worried about you.”
He paused momentarily on the steps and narrowed his eyes. Liar. He sensed nothing remotely close to the woman he loved.
Make her pay for her deception. Make her pay for her contempt.
The shadow inside was harder to suppress this time. He realized how easy it would be to give in. However, the Jedi in him wouldn’t allow it. He kept his reserve. But a halting and startling thought came to his mind…The more he suppressed his feelings, the harder it is do it. How long would he be able to fight against the darkness that loomed beneath the façade that was Anakin Skywalker?
Padme always advocated diplomacy. Tomorrow he will confront—no—discuss the matter with her and try to get her to open up. As he ascended the steps, he prayed to the force that it would be enough.
TBC…
NEXT: Nine - The Prelude
Anakin tries a different approach, Anakin vs. Avaryce, Wrangling support at the Annual ball.
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KELIA
Title: Moderator: Fan Fiction
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
1/11 11:44am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 1/11- (Eight) SUCKS TO BE ANAKIN
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Make her pay for her deception. Make her pay for her contempt.
Oooohhh there's that Sith temper I know so well
That is not good because I don't trust him to be calm and rational enough to discuss anything with Padme.
Great update
[face_applasue]
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ROTSFan
Registered:
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Date Posted:
1/11 5:09pm
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RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 1/11- (Eight) SUCKS TO BE ANAKIN
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She is nothing but a hypocrite and a liar. She’s just as treacherous as the council. Padme cannot be trusted.
This is true. I'm saddened that the story will have a dark ending (unlike The Fantastic Journey). I guess her affair pretty much spells the end of it. 
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Fics in profile; ask me to unlock ~I did nothing. I did absolutely nothing, and it was everything I hoped it would be." - Office Space
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Anakins_Kiss
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Date Posted:
2/7 7:20am
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RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 1/11- (Eight) SUCKS TO BE ANAKIN
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DRL attacked me and I am still in recovery. I will post the next chapter as soon as I can.
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Anakins_Kiss
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2/17 8:25pm
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RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 1/11- (Eight) SUCKS TO BE ANAKIN
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Everyone- Sorry for the lateness. I am totally swamped. This is only half of chapter nine. I am struggling to find time to get as much done as possible. This half is already beta'd (thanks kelia). So without further delay, here is chapter nine. Thank you guys for reading this still and hanging in there with me.
Nine – The Prelude
Anakin hoped there was some way he could make sense of the confusion his life was in. He leaned against the wall and gazed beseechingly through the bedroom window at the stars above as thoughts of his conflict with the council and their seditious behavior lingered in his mind. He considered his friendship with the chancellor and how it would be affected by the traitorous assignment he was given. Regarding these issues, he could do nothing. His duty was to carry out the mandates given by the council, regardless of any reservations. As he felt a warm presence slowly approach from behind, he considered his marriage, hoping that the recourse he had chosen would be enough to restore whatever damage had been done.
He dreaded having to talk to her, dreaded finding out that his unspoken suspicions were true. Never saying more to her than was required, he watched her at times, wondering what caused her to change. Now that she was near him, he decided not to put it off any longer. He looked across his shoulder at her and slowly moved his gaze from her head to toe.
At first he could not speak, he found her breathtaking. He was immediately taken back to the moment he confessed his love for her so long ago. Padme stood before him in an elegant green gown. The shade reminded him of the meadow at Varykino. The brow raising gossamer V-neck line and shoulder straps were adorned with silver beads and sequins. Rare crystals studded her earlobes. Brown tendrils were meticulously pinned on top of her head, and fell gracefully down her back. His lips parted as he drank her in. He realized how much he missed placing delicate kisses on her bare shoulders and familiarizing himself with the scent of Nubian flowers in her hair. Remembering the reason for his depravation, his heart grew heavier.
“You look..." Anakin allowed his eyes to linger on her, “beautiful.”
Padme blushed. “Thank you,” She smiled. “I wasn’t sure I’d find a gown that would fit me and not give away the pregnancy.” Padme rested her hand on her abdomen made invisible by the pleating at the seam of the dress.
In a slow nostalgic gesture, Anakin stretched out his hand and pushed a brown lock of hair behind her shoulder. He remembered happier times when he loved twirling his finger around the thick curls. He dropped his hand to his side and asked, “Where are you off to, if you don’t mind me asking?” He raised an eyebrow at the end of the question.
Padme furled her brow and smiled, “You’re my husband, Anakin. Why would I mind?” Slowly the smiled faded. “I am going to the ball tonight.”
Anakin nodded, suddenly remembering the occasion and turned back to the window.
“I wish you’d come,” she said cautiously. She sounded as if she were trying to coax a pet from under the bed.
Anakin snorted watching the traffic in the distance, “I don’t think so.” He was certainly in no mood to go to a ball. He wondered how Padme could go to a ball considering their marriage was in trouble. Anakin thought perhaps she didn’t care. His eyes shifted to the right to her transparent reflection in the window.
“I know.” She sounded preoccupied by the thoughts floating around in her mind. “I just thought I’d try.” Padme cast her eyes down to the carpeted floor. It was apparent that she was pondering her next words. She raised her eyes to him and said, “Anakin, I heard about your appointment to the council. Congratulations.”
She was fishing for something, wanting to know what disturbed her husband so deeply. Her concerns held no weight with him. Her comment, regardless of its sincerity, meant nothing. She wanted him to talk and he decided to grant her that. Anakin paused before responding in a low voice. “It wasn’t what I expected.”
“What did you expect?”
Anakin closed his eyes for a moment and re-considered the chosen method to get through to her. Part of him believed talking was a lost cause. Another part of him believed there was a chance they could work things out and as long as there was a chance, he would try. He opened his eyes, realizing that for what it was worth, this needed to happen. “I expected…what I deserved.”
“What do you mean?”
“I find myself being overlooked, disregarded as if I’ve lost my value.” Anakin kept his gaze on the reflection of his beloved.
“They know all the things you are capable of. They knighted you because you’ve shown them what you can do. You have such potential, Ani. They know you are an asset. You continue to get stronger. In time, you will be fully recognized for it, Ani. Be a little more patient.”
Her words left him feeling bitter sweet. He missed her encouragement and support. For the first time her words brought nothing but pain.
“All I have been is patient. What else can I do?” He cast his eyes downward. He did nothing to restrain the frustration and the despair in his voice. It was obvious that she didn’t know he was talking about more than just the council. “I am losing myself, Padme.”
Her brow lowered, crinkling her nose. She took a step to the side to get a better view of his face. Devotion embedded in the tone of her voice. “Anakin, what’s wrong?”
Slowly shaking his head, he explained. “I am not certain of anything anymore. I am doubting myself, I am doubting my allegiances…” He sighed heavily and turned his head toward her. “I am doubting you.”
Her brow raised and her mouth opened. Her eyes seemed to deepen with the wound she just received. Concern permeated her countenance. “Why?” She moved again to stand before him.
He nodded knowingly. “You already know why. What I don’t know is why you are doing this to me.”
She looked confused. Her eyes went wide. “What I am doing?”
Her short-term amnesia was getting under his skin and it only added to his frustration. Malicious murmuring echoed in his mind. The feeling of utter betrayal started to creep into his heart like smoke penetrating the lung, choking off any hope that his marriage could be saved. Disappointed, Anakin huffed and bit his bottom lip. It was an attempt to keep from yelling at her.
She begged. “Please, Anakin, tell me what you’re talking about.”
“You have made it painfully clear, that you are not happy with me. You’ve been distant, sneaking around behind my back doing force knows what. You’ve lied to me on several occasions and you know how I feel about liars.” He shook his head. “I don’t know who you are any more.”
Padme’s eyes narrowed. “Why are you saying this? You know who I am. I am your wife. The woman you love. I have never lied to you, Anakin. I admit I may have been preoccupied with work, but I have not been totally neglectful. I have been nothing less than truthful to you. How could you say such things?”
Anakin turned, fully facing her and moved from the wall. Indignant, he pointed to himself, “How could I?” He dropped his hand to his side and raised his voice. “How could you lie to me about where you were last night?”
Padme’s mouth dropped. “Ani, we never discussed my whereabouts last night!”
Anakin closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He exhaled slowly and reminded himself that quarreling would solve nothing.
He opened his eyes and said calmly, “There are moments when you say you love me and I know you don’t mean it. Then there are times when I know you do. Sometimes I don’t recognize you. I just don’t know which Padme will greet me the next time I see you. I know you are under a lot of pressure with the senate, the chancellor, me being sent away to war and now with the baby on the way. I need to know why you are doing this to us. What’s happened that makes you act this way? Tell me what can I do to fix it?”
“Anakin, nothing has happened. I don’t understand how could you believe that I don’t love you even for a second. I have loved you from the beginning. I don’t regret one moment of my life with you, Anakin. I am the same woman you fell in love with. I have always been. You mean more to me than anything. I know how you feel about lies and I’d never tell you one. I swear I haven’t done the things you say. It hurts me deeply to know that you have any doubts about me after all these years...after all we’ve been through.”
“You are the cause of my doubts.” Her denials were as icy pin pricks in his heart. Each one dared him to make her tell him what she’s been up to. He ignored it. “I needed you yesterday, Padme. I came to your office last night to see you. Instead, I find out that you lied about where you would be. You lied about Dorme calling you! You lied about that wooden bracelet. Do you think I wouldn’t know? Can you imagine how I feel?”
“Wooden brace—Do you know how you sound right now? You are completely blind-siding me with this! I have not done any of the things you claim! You have been avoiding me all day! You haven’t so much as touched me for the last few weeks. Anakin, I don’t know what is going on with you, but you are still pushing me away. I am not the one that has changed. It’s you! You’re changing.”
Anakin narrowed his eyes, his tone cool, “You’re denying all of this?”
“Yes!”
“So I made this all up?! I am going crazy then?!”
“I don’t know, Anakin. Maybe.” She threw her hands in the air.
He pointed a gloved finger at her. “If I am, it’s your doing.”
He stepped around her and took several steps away. Her continued denial of the matter only irritated him more. “You’ve manipulated me and insulted my intelligence—“
“Manipulated you?!” Padme interjected. “Insulted your—Anakin, stop this!” Padme rubbed her temple with her thumb.
He spun around and asked, “You wouldn’t lie to me, right? You’ve been completely honest about everything?”
“Yes!” She said emphatically.
“Then where were you last night?” He folded his arms and watched her gaze slowly drop to the floor.
She was stunned into silence. Frantic eyes searched the floor for an acceptable answer. Anakin watched her closely sensing a genuine wave of guilt and apprehension radiate from her. Silently, he begged to the force that she would answer truthfully so that everything would go back to normal. Somehow he felt the truth would put everything right. She licked her lips and began in a stutter, “I-I was…I was…”
Anakin stepped closer to her and gently lifted her chin with his finger, forcing her to meet his gaze. Brown eyes became glossy as they connected with blue eyes. He knew she could see the pain in them. There he remained at the edge of an abyss, hoping she’d keep him from falling, desperately hoping his wait would not be in vain. He asked agonizingly, “Who were you with?”
The sequins on her neckline twinkled while her chest heaved up and down. Padme appeared to be conflicted between deception and integrity. She continued to desperately search for the right words. Padme was in a corner, seeing that Anakin would accept no less than the truth. Her eyebrows arched upward as unspent tears stood in her eyes. She shook her head quickly and begged in a shaky voice, “Anakin, please—it’s not what you think. “
This did not put him at ease. Her eyes were pleading for mercy, but he had none to spare. Not for her. Not after the things she’s done. He folded his arms and said cooly, “Then tell your husband what you’ve been up to. Start with last night.”
Again, Padme remained silent, wringing her hands and biting her lip. It was difficult to decipher whether it was fear of his reaction or her own disgust in what she’s done that held her tongue. He realized that she would not willingly reveal anything, even it would save their marriage. Whether she knew it was at stake or not, Anakin now counted Padme amongst the many people he could not trust.
He nodded his head in comprehension and turned to leave the room.
With a small whimper, Padme quickly stepped around him and blocked his way. The gown moved lightly and appeared as if she merely floated around him. She proclaimed desperately, “I made a promise, Anakin…” She shook her head again, her voice weakening, “And I’m sorry...” Her chin trembled as the tears started to fall. “I can’t tell you.”
Normally her tears would soften his resolve, but Anakin persevered. He resisted the need to wipe the droplets away. He resisted the urge to hold her and confirm everything would be all right. This was her doing and she had to answer for it. Even now, it seemed she as using her tears to manipulate him. He looked at her mercilessly. “You can’t tell me? Or you won’t?” His voice grew in intensity. He felt the disgust with her welling up in side him. It startled him as he realized that he could harden his heart against her—the reason for it to beat. The bond between them seemed to weaken and it wounded him deeply. He yelled, “I have never kept any secrets from you…Ever!”
She huffed in distress, “Where is all this coming from?”
Anakin took a deep breath asked calmly. “Is there someone else?” His voice was low and calm.
She recoiled as if the question was accompanied with a punch.
A turbulent storm inside him started to gather its strength. The dark entity in him started to beat against the walls of his mind, pleading to be set free, promising to take the pain away. The tremors reverberated through his body and all he could hear was his heartbeat. Anakin swallowed hard as it seemed he was choking on his confusion. He felt himself teetering on the edge of the abyss. She was his last hope and she didn’t even know it. “Just tell me now. I don’t think I can take much more of this.” His voice shook as if he were struggling with an invisible threat. “I’m begging you.” His voice cracked, tears not far away.
“No! There isn’t anyone else!” Padme cried out. “We have been through all that!”
“Apparently, not thoroughly enough.”
“You and the baby are all that matter to me. You are my heart.” She didn’t bother wiping the endless flow of tears away. “Ani, I love you.”
“It’s funny,” he remarked with a mirthless chuckle. “You said that to me yesterday and I didn’t believe a word.”
She furled her brow, hurt by this admission, forcing fresh tears down her cheeks. She lifted her hand and touched his cheek, “And now?”
Anakin looked deeply into her eyes. He reached into the force and felt her aura. He recognized everything as it was, as it should have been. He sensed no deception, no insincerity, and no malice. He could feel that she deeply and completely loved him as much as he loved her. He looked at her wrist and didn’t see the offending wooden bracelet. Instead, she wore a crystal embedded metal bracelet he made and gave her nearly two years ago. There was no doubt, the woman standing before him was the woman he loved since he was a child. He could not reconcile her with the woman she was last night. The Padme he traded words with yesterday was completely different from the one in front of him. Everything she said tonight was the truth. It was as if she was restored.
What is she doing to me? Is this some kind of trick? How can she be one way and then another? It’s as if the right hand does not know what the left is doing. Either she’s lost it or I have.
Her aura in the force presented with no anomalies, ruling out the possibility of a mental issue. It was all too much for him to handle at that moment. This discussion did nothing but cause him more confusion and self-doubt. More questions were raised than answers. He started to question his ability to use the force. His mind was so racked with frustration and anger that he thought he might be too distracted to sense whether she is really being honest. Distressed and burdened with a heavy heart, Anakin removed her hand from his face and shook his head, “I can’t keep going like this, Padme. I love you more than anything and I can’t lose you.” Anakin’s eyes hardened again and he pointed a finger at her. With intensity in his voice, he said, “I will not lose you. Don’t do this to me.” It was more of a warning than a plea.
Unbidden an image of her clawing at her throat, attempting to free herself from an invisible assault, flashed before his mind’s eye. The light in her brown eyes slowly faded, freezing in a plea for mercy. Her perfectly shaped lips, parted in a desperate attempt to clutch life-sustaining air. She died mouthing incomprehensible words in between gasps. Anakin’s muscles became taut with the vision. Adrenaline pumped through him at a level he never felt before. In that split second, the power of the force seemed double bringing a brief wave of pleasure. In that instant, it was easier to breathe and the agony within him was gone. However, guilt soon set in reminding him of who he was and who stood before him. He was ashamed to admit that the small taste of relief it brought felt so good. It was a guilty pleasure—one he knew he’d crave. He looked away from her and blinked several times to regain control of his thoughts. The image was not his doing. It was involuntary, like a reflex. Anakin realized that it was an act of something deeper and darker lurking beneath it all. Though he was trained not to give in to it, he never fully understood why. There was a surge of enmity needing to be purged from his mind and heart. Too much was provoking the part of him he held back with years of training as a Jedi. He couldn’t be near her now, not with it so close to the surface. He stepped around her and started toward the doorway.
She spun around. “Where are you going?”
“To the temple,” he called out as he started down the hall to the stairs.
“Anakin, please don’t leave. We need to talk about this.” Padme started to follow, but stopped at the doorway. “I am worried about you…about us.”
Anakin descended the steps and shot back, “Enjoy the ball.”
Coming up...
Anakin vs. Avaryce, rebel activity at the ball
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ROTSFan
Registered:
Jul '06
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Date Posted:
2/19 12:35am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 2/17- (Nine) The prelude
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I was wondering if this was going to be continued! Still don't like what's going on with Padme, but I'm confused. It's as though she has a dark and a light side to her.
I wish Anakin would have been this reasonable and sweet in canon. It's as though he's willing to talk and forgive her an affair, rather than just choke her without explanation on the spot. 
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Fics in profile; ask me to unlock ~I did nothing. I did absolutely nothing, and it was everything I hoped it would be." - Office Space
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Anakins_Fallen_Angel
Registered:
May '07
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Date Posted:
2/19 5:38am
Subject:
RE: OVERCOME- (A/P, Obi, Palpsy, Dooks etc...) - updated 2/17- (Nine) The prelude
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Wow, You have me hooked to this story, Im anxious to find out whats going on with Padme; Split personality maybe?
Im glad youve updated! This keeps getting better and better and keeps me guessing as to what the future holds for Anakin, and for everyone for that matter. You've really got a great story here!! giving us information but not enough to let us know whats fully happening 
Nice Update! and Thanks for the PM!!
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KELIA
Title: Moderator: Fan Fiction
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Jul '05
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