Chapter 33: The Divide Begins

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The next day, tensions between Chancellor Palpatine and the Jedi Council reached a boiling point. The increasing power wielded by the Chancellor deeply troubled the Jedi Masters, who saw in him a threat to the Republic's democratic principles. The Senate's announcement that they planned to grant Palpatine more executive powers only exacerbated their concerns. Meanwhile, Anakin Skywalker found himself caught between his loyalty to the Chancellor and his duties as a Jedi Knight.

When Obi-Wan Kenobi informed Anakin of the Senate's plan, he was unexpectedly supportive of the measure, despite Kenobi's cautious warning to be wary of Palpatine's growing influence. "Anakin, the Chancellor has requested your presence," Obi-Wan said, his voice filled with concern. "He didn't inform the Council."

Anakin, eager to hear Palpatine's reasons, made his way to the Chancellor's office. There, he found Palpatine standing by a large window, overlooking the vast cityscape of Coruscant. The sight was marred by the scars of war: several buildings lay in ruins, and a brown haze hung over the horizon.

"Anakin, this afternoon, the Senate is going to call on me to take direct control of the Jedi Council," Palpatine said, his voice devoid of emotion.

Anakin, stunned, turned to face him. "The Jedi will no longer report to the Senate?" he asked.

Palpatine nodded. "They will report to me . . . personally. The Senate is too unfocused to conduct a war. This will bring a quick end to things."

Anakin pondered this for a moment, then turned back to the window. "I agree, but the Jedi Council may not see it that way."

"There are times when we must all endure adjustments to the constitution in the name of security," Palpatine stated.

"With all due respect, sir, the Council is in no mood for more constitutional amendments," Anakin disagreed.

"Thank you, my friend, but in this case, I have no choice. . . This war must be won," Palpatine replied.

There was a moment of silence as Anakin considered his words.

"Anakin, I've known you since you were a small boy. I have advised you over the years when I could. I am very proud of your accomplishments. You have won many battles the Jedi Council thought were lost. ., and you saved my life. I hope you trust me," Palpatine said, turning to look at Anakin.

"Of course," Anakin said, straightening his posture.

"I need your help, son," Palpatine said, sounding worried. He confided in Anakin his fear, distrust, and contempt for the Masters of the Jedi Council. He revealed his intention to appoint Anakin as his personal representative on the Council, a decision Anakin knew the Jedi Masters would never accept willingly.

After discussing other matters, Anakin took his leave to inform the Jedi Council of his new position. He entered the Council Chamber, feeling a mix of pride and apprehension. The masters sat in a circle, their expressions ranging from curious to concerned.

"Anakin Skywalker," Mace Windu began, his voice stern, "we have been informed by the Chancellor that he has appointed you as his personal representative on the Jedi Council."

Anakin nodded. "Yes, Master Windu. It is his wish."

The council members exchanged wary glances. "You realize, of course, that this is highly irregular," Ki-Adi-Mundi said.

Anakin's gaze shifted to Obi-Wan, who remained silent. "Yes, Master, but the Chancellor believes it is necessary."

"Very well," Mace Windu said reluctantly. "You will be granted a seat on this council, but we do not grant you the rank of master."

Anakin felt a surge of anger. "What? How can you do this? This is outrageous! It's unfair! How can you be on the council and not be a master?"

"Take a seat, young Skywalker," Mace Windu commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Seething, Anakin complied and took his place among the Jedi Masters. Ignoring his outburst, the Council continued to discuss matters concerning the war.

"We have reports of increased activity on Kashyyyk," Yoda said, his voice calm yet firm. "What battalion of clones will I take to reinforce the Wookiees?"

"Anakin, you will be assigned to protect the Chancellor," Mace Windu declared.

Anakin's anger and disappointment were palpable. After the meeting, Obi-Wan approached him.

"Anakin, the Council accepted your appointment so that you could act as our eyes and ears in the Chancellor's office," Obi-Wan said quietly. "We need you to spy on him."

Anakin's eyes widened with shock and anger. "Spy on the Chancellor? That's treason, Obi-Wan! The Chancellor is my friend, my mentor."

"I understand your reservations," Obi-Wan said gently, "but we believe that the Chancellor may not be acting in the best interests of the Republic."

Anakin looked away, his jaw clenched. "I can't betray him. I owe him too much."

"We're asking you to trust us, Anakin," Obi-Wan pleaded. "We must ensure that the Republic remains strong and free."

After a long silence, Anakin finally nodded, though his heart was heavy with conflict. "I'll do what I can," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

With that, Anakin walked away, feeling more isolated than ever. He was torn between his loyalty to the Chancellor and his duty as a Jedi. The lines between right and wrong, friend and foe, were becoming increasingly blurred. As he left the temple, his thoughts turned to Daenerys and their unborn child, the only light in the encroaching darkness of his world.

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AUTHORS NOTE!

So Anakin, in different ways, has been recruited to spy on the chancellor and Jedi from both ends. Interesting. i am also sorry this chapter is so short and rushed. I got a bit busy with work and just rushed this one.

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