Bittersweet Devotion [Star Wars x Anakin Skywalker]

12.

"When 900 years old you reach, look as good you will not." - Yoda

The serene beauty of Naboo stretched out before them as the ship descended, the verdant landscape a stark contrast to the chaos they had just left behind. The gentle hum of the engines filled the silence between Rain and Anakin, both lost in their thoughts as they prepared to land. Rain—Atherain Tyandas, as she was formally known—still felt the lingering warmth of Anakin's proposal, the words echoing in her mind.

As the ship touched down, Obi-Wan powered down the controls with practiced ease. "Well, here we are," he said, his voice steady, though Rain detected a subtle undercurrent of something more—concern, perhaps, or maybe just a sense of inevitability.

Stepping out into the fresh Naboo air, Rain took a deep breath, letting the peaceful surroundings wash over her. It was a welcome change from the cold sterility of space, and for a moment, she allowed herself to forget everything that had brought them here.

Obi-Wan followed them outside, his gaze sweeping over the picturesque surroundings before he turned back to Rain and Anakin. He offered Rain a small smile, his eyes softening as he spoke. "Take care, Rain," he said gently, his tone carrying more weight than the simple words suggested.

"Thank you, Master," Rain replied, her voice full of genuine affection. She hesitated for a moment, sensing that there was more Obi-Wan wanted to say, but when he remained silent, she gave him a nod and began to walk away, her steps light as she moved toward the villa.

As Rain disappeared from view, Anakin remained standing by Obi-Wan, watching her retreating figure with a fondness that was impossible to hide. Obi-Wan noticed, of course—he always did—but said nothing until she was out of earshot.

Once Rain was gone, Obi-Wan turned to Anakin, his expression becoming more serious. "So, Anakin," he began, his voice measured, "what exactly is this 'business' you need to attend to here on Naboo?"

Anakin's heart skipped a beat, but he forced himself to remain calm, keeping his tone casual. "Just a few personal matters, Master. Nothing too urgent, but important enough to require my attention."

Obi-Wan's eyes narrowed slightly, his keen instincts telling him that Anakin wasn't being entirely truthful. "Personal matters?" he echoed, his voice carrying a hint of skepticism. "You realize that as your Master, I know you better than most, Anakin."

Anakin shifted uncomfortably, trying to maintain the facade. "It's nothing to worry about, Master. Just something I need to take care of before we return to Coruscant."

Obi-Wan studied Anakin for a long moment, his gaze searching. He could see the tension in Anakin's posture, the way he avoided eye contact, the subtle signs that something was amiss. But he also knew how stubborn Anakin could be when he set his mind to something, and pushing him too hard now might only drive him further into secrecy.

Finally, Obi-Wan sighed softly, his expression softening. "Anakin, I won't press you on this. But remember, as your Master, it is my duty to guide you. Whatever it is you're doing here, remember the Code. Remember what we've been taught."

Anakin nodded, though he avoided looking directly at Obi-Wan. "I understand, Master," he replied, his voice low but steady.

Obi-Wan placed a hand on Anakin's shoulder, his touch firm but reassuring. "I trust you, Anakin," he said, though there was a note of caution in his voice. "But remember that trust is a delicate thing. Don't let your emotions cloud your judgment."

Anakin finally met Obi-Wan's gaze, his blue eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and guilt. "I won't, Master," he promised, though the weight of the promise felt heavy on his shoulders.