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Chapter Text

“Anakin, come back.”

There only lies pure desperation within Obi-Wan Kenobi’s voice. An emotion spurred by a great amount of lost and pain— the tiniest of hope trying to burst through the image opposite of him. He cannot even recognize his former padawan any more; the face still much the same outline and everything, but the eyes… the underlying hate radiating within them, powerful and dangerous. It truly is unrecognizable, or maybe it is Obi-Wan trying to make it out to be.

His former apprentice, his best friend, his brother stands against him among the lavas of Mustafar— the two of them separated by the burning liquid, Obi-Wan standing on high-leveled rocks while Anakin is balanced within a floating obstacle. He knows he should not be asking him back, not when the lightsaber being held has murdered younglings. Innocent life taken away with a weapon meant to belong to those that wish for peace.

And yet…

”Please,” he begs, wistfully. Come back, he repeats within his own mind. Obi-Wan does not know for whose sake. For Anakin’s? To get his soul back from the dark side and make him realize he still has much to take care. Or for himself? So he would not be able to lose his brother, to lose another person he loves dearly. He has lost much already: Qui-Gon, friends/teammates from the Young, Satine, his men... all the Jedi who were not able to escape— he has suddenly found it even harder to breathe.

When he glances up to stare right at the flaming gold irises of Anakin’s eyes, he knows there that he has lost him too. The lost is inevitable, brokenly watching as the young man tightens his grip on his lightsaber (one whose kyber crystal is the very same one that Anakin received when Obi-Wan had gone with him to Ilum, waiting patiently outside the freezing doors as he wore a proud grin for his young apprentice to spot— ‘look Obi! (He did not began calling him ‘Master’ until the meaning no longer reminded Anakin of slavery, Obi-Wan had requested for the Council’s permission and they allowed it, of course) My crystal’s like yours!’). Obi-Wan shakes his head lightly when Anakin Force jumps from his place— and his powers are far too strong that at the same time the lava follows him as a shadow would— lightsaber ignited to kill Obi-Wan in the spot.

For one brief milisecond, Obi-Wan lets his mind wander ‘what if I let myself die?’ but then he remembers about Padmé and her children and he cannot let his brother’s wife and kids suffer by themselves. So instead, he raises his own lightsaber and swings because can’t you see, Anakin? Obi-Wan had some advantage in being among the high ground.

(I have the high ground, Anakin! Don’t try it, he had warned).

The two of them end up being at a disadvantage at the end. Obi-Wan’s swing causes for Anakin to lose his lower limbs and for Anakin’s Force abilities to shower Obi-Wan with droplets of lava onto him— it burns as expected, but while he manages to escape from further damage, Anakin drops to the ground and barely holds on to himself. Sweat and dirt drops from both their faces, exhausted and weak. One filled with anger and the other with grief. You were the Chosen One! It was said you were to destroy the Sith, not join them! Bring back balance to the Force, not leave it in darkness... he had not spent ages focusing on Anakin for that reason. He had discouraged such words knowing it would only bring him pressure, but if the prophecy had any truth behind them then why is this happening? 

”I hate you!” screams the voice of the man Obi-Wan loves as a brother. One he raised ever since he was nine years old and had once swore to protect and train way better than himself. Flames begin to surround him and he knows this will not end with them walking out of there in hopes to mend their broken bond. Tears streams down his eyes, but they mixed with the sweating of the heat around him and blended in well. He had his heart broken before, many, many times, but this... he never imagined losing Anakin. Not like this— this was somehow worse.

“You were my brother, Anakin!” Obi-Wan cries, forcing himself to stare down at the boy he raised. He hoped to see for some type of fear or regret that can make him come back to him, but there is nothing except hatred. All for him, because Obi-Wan Kenobi failed Anakin Skywalker. And yet, after everything... every stupidity, anger, loss, pain, guilt— there is one that stands true before him even as Anakin says those three cruel words. “I loved you,” he admits out loud.

Love should be the correct term, but the man in front of him is no longer the same one he trained. Not really, not like this. But the words are still true. He had never told Anakin before, he was never one to voice the words out loud because he knew it would confirm his attachments, but he did love him. Anakin has been the one to take his mind off his master’s death, the one to get him to smile for the first time since then. They annoyed each other endlessly, but they would be first to volunteer to help the other. And now that is all gone.

Before he realizes it, Anakin is slowly staring to burn and Obi-Wan watches with horror. Quickly, he glances away knowing if he were to stare any longer he would forget all about Anakin’s wrong doings and save him from the heat. He cannot kill him with his own lightsaber, so maybe this is better.

But it does not feel better as he hears him cry out in pain and anger. Obi-Wan clutches his lightsaber with frustration and so he turns, aiming to head straight toward him, but the young man notices and in his rage he uses his abilities to bring some of the lava up in the air, throwing it straight at Obi-Wan. Seeing it coming, Obi-Wan is quick to back away knowing if he tries anything, he too will die.

At the sudden darkness overfilling his senses as a warning, Obi-Wan had a bad feeling about what it could be if not from Vader (as this thing that has overpowered Anakin is called). His mind takes him back to the unconscious pregnant woman and he makes a choice. Not for himself, nor for the dark sider in front of him, but for the memory of his former padawan.

Obi-Wan glances sadly one last time at the burning figure, remembering his friend’s outline before it will become engulfed with flames as he dies. Then, he turns around, picks up his former padawan’s lightsaber, and begins running toward the woman lying on the ground, face filled with her own sweat, but still with a pulse. He brings her close to his chest and carries her on his arms, desperately trying to hurry to save her life. He cannot lose her. Obi-Wan fears he will lose himself if he does. She is his friend, one of the last few people reminding him of what he had.

Even when he flies off Mustafar (forcing himself to forget that left behind is the body of Anakin Skywalker— if he remembers, then he will not be able to leave), Obi-Wan finds no comfort within his own mind. The only thing he hears is silence, thoughts trying to keep themselves on the lifeforms behind him and ensuring their safety. He cannot fail them; he cannot bare it if he does. Only when he is nearby Master Yoda and Senator Organa had told him is when he makes contact with the latter, face completely sullen and with loss.

While retrieving Padmé, he motions for R2 and 3PO to follow along, ignoring the continuous chattering from the golden protocol droid (‘I once built a protocol droid with continuous parts, Obi! His name is C-3PO and I built him for my mom, but I would have liked for you to meet him.’ ‘Maybe one day, Ani.’). He carries his friend on his arms and exits the ship, meeting Senator Organa half-way.

”We’ll take her to the medical center, quickly!” Senator Organa announces, leading Obi-Wan to the said destination in a hurry. Obi-Wan does not utter any word, but he does as he is being told. Once they reach to the medical droids, taking quite attentive to her, he simply stays in the opposite window. After some minutes, Master Yoda makes his own appearance beside them.

They wait, and Obi-Wan knows the wise Grandmaster can sense his heartache of emotions. Though, he speaks nothing of it, and for that, Obi-Wan is glad. When the droids have the chance to take over his appearance, he is forced to be given bacta in some areas where the lava Anakin lifted poured over him. He hisses through the pain, but he says nothing of it because he deserves it and way more.

He had told Master Yoda that he should have let his men... the 212th clones kill him. Or that instead of his own master, that Maul had killed him instead. Master Yoda had been horrified at his words and was forced to remind him that he was a Jedi— but does it even matter now?

“Medically, she is completely healthy. For reasons we cannot explain, we are losing her,” one of the medical droids finally admits, leaving Padmé’s side in order to inform the three males waiting for information. Obi-Wan barely hides a shudder of grief, his lips parting in surprise. No, no, please, Padmé...

”She’s dying?” He barely realizes that grieving tone is coming from him, his arms crossed against his chest while staring shockingly at the droid.

”We do not know why. She has lost the will to live,” the medical droids informs, simply giving out a reason. Obi-Wan inhales sharply and quietly, glancing away once more from the droid. He cannot believe it. Why must she also be fading away? Does she not realize he does not want to face reality as well? She cannot do this... no... “We need to operate quickly if we are to save the babies.”

Senator Organa tilts his head to the side. “Babies?” He repeats unsurely. Obi-Wan does not look surprise. It would be nearly impossible to not realize the woman before them is having twins— well, at least to someone with force-sensitivity. 

“She is carrying twins,” the droid tells them, turning to stare at all of them expectantly. Master Yoda simply gazes downwards while Obi-Wan wanders off to the side, staring solemnly toward Padmé’s way.

At one point, Master Yoda reaches beside him. Despite already knowing the answer, Obi-Wan asks, “Did you kill him?”

”My mission, I failed,” Master Yoda answers, defeatedly.

He does not ask the question to Obi-Wan, but he still answers, “The flames have overtook him.”

”Dead is he?”

Obi-Wan glares down at the ground. “I do not see him surviving such complete burns,” he responds, biting back his own frustration. Master Yoda stares at him, but he does not return it. Instead, he focuses on the unconscious woman. Waiting for the moment for her eyes to open. The medical droids are preparing for her to start giving birth. If she wakes, he will go inside and help her. Something Anakin should have been doing while he would have been waiting patiently outside to give his support to them... That would be assuming life had been perfect where Anakin realized Obi-Wan (and practically everyone else) knew of the pregnancy and was invited to be there for children who perhaps would have called him ‘Uncle Obi-Wan’ and maybe even Master Obi-Wan when they were older if Anakin allowed to train them.

Of course, nothing like that is possible now.

”Made sure you should have,” sighs Master Yoda after some time.

Obi-Wan frowns deeper. “I could not have bared to watch him die,” he says sharply. But he could kill him, and that is saying something else. Why was he given the harder mission? Even if he lost against him, then at least he would have died. Except now he is alive and is watching more people die around him.

Thankfully, Master Yoda speaks no more. When Padmé begins to flutter her eyes weakly, Obi-Wan steps inside the room and lets the droid inform her of her need to birth her children. Ever the weakest, and yet still incredibly strong, Padmé agrees with the claims and it does not take long for her to go onto labor. Obi-Wan lets her grab his hand, not daring to wince (even as his thoughts knows that it should be Anakin beside her) when she squeezes tightly than anything before.

Despite his overwhelming emotions, he manages to smile down at her gently, knowing it is for the best for her to know that she is loved and supported. His light smile widens just the slightest when he hears the sound of crying, and Padmé’s face relaxes slightly upon the sound, so he turns momentarily to watch the medical droid hand Obi-Wan over the newborn baby.

”Luke,” Padmé sighs weakly, letting out deep breathes while watching Obi-Wan take the young baby boy into his grasps. He holds him gently, staring down adoringly as the baby calms down almost immediately upon being held by Obi-Wan. Gently, the Jedi Master brings Luke lower to show Padmé her son. He watches silently as the Senator of Naboo smiles weakly, fingers gently caressing her son’s cheek. A frown reaches his own lips while noticing immediately how Padmé is growing weaker by the second.

Padmé begins to push once more, tears streaming down her face along with sweat and tiredness. Obi-Wan keeps a firm hold on Luke while letting his friend torture his own hand, trying to send waves of reassurance to both the newborn and the newly mother. Within seconds, another cry is heard from behind and Obi-Wan takes another glance to see the newborn.

”Leia,” Padmé gasps out breathily, weakly trying to lift her head in order to see her daughter. Although he would love to carry both of the newborns in his arms, Obi-Wan cannot risk doing so and instead allows for the medical droid to take care of her.

His attention returns to Padmé, who whispers out his name in desperation. Obi-Wan leans down, gently caressing Luke within his arms. Please, don’t die, Padmé. Please, he begs within his own mind. And yet, he can sense her fading even more and it pains him, but he tries his best not to project it onto the newborns.

”There’s still good in him, I know… I know there is. There is still...” Padmé trails off at the end, the light surrounding her completely vanishing. Obi-Wan backs away defeatedly, face filled completely with grief once more. Padmé Naberrie, Padmé Amidala— the woman who had been a senator, friend, wife, and mother is now dead. And she died, believing Anakin to still be alive as well.

*

The newborns were left to sleep safely among the medical room while Obi-Wan sits five feet away from both Bail and Yoda. He keeps his hand over his mouth, swallowing down all his disbelief and heartache. Before everything fell apart, he would have taken the chance to flirt nonchalantly with Bail, taking advantage of annoying him for a few seconds before finally charming the man down. Never anything serious, of course, considering of his marriage with Breha, but something to amuse the two of them. Now? Well, now there is no point to it. Everyone has lost. Completely and utterly lost.

”Hidden, safe the children must be,” Master Yoda announces the clear obvious. Palpatine still lives, and they all know since that is the case, then Luke and Leia are not safe.

Stiffly, Obi-Wan takes his mind out of the precious events and adds, “We must take them somewhere where the Sith will not sense their presence.”

”Mmh,” Yoda hums, thoughtfully. “Split up they should be.”

Senator Organa glances momentarily at Obi-Wan before saying, “My wife and I will take the girl. We’ve always talked about adopting a baby girl. She will be loved with us.” At the last sentence, he stares at Obi-Wan as if telling him, ‘do not worry, we will cherish her’ and Obi-Wan believes it wholeheartedly.

”And what of Luke?” Obi-Wan turns to Yoda, questioningly.

Master Yoda stares at him back. “To Tatooine, where his family is,” the oldest Jedi replies.

Obi-Wan pales slightly, gulping back his fear with a little nod. His eyes gazes downwards. “I will take the child and watch over him,” he says, soft and yet grieving. Again, he frowns the slightest and wonders how he has the strength to stand up in order to bow as Bail heads to leave. Obi-Wan almost does as well, but a call from Master Yoda makes him pause.

He sits back down, waiting patiently for Yoda to begin the conversation. While doing so, he forces himself to begin letting go of his emotions. It will take time to truly make himself go through each emotion passing through, but for the meantime, he understands of his grief and sadness, letting it go toward the Force for the moment until he finally has time to think. It seems he has plentiful time to do so.

”In your solitude on Tatooine, training I have for you,” Master Yoda begins, sending a short nod at him.

Obi-Wan simply blinks. “Training?” He questions, wondering if he heard wrong. The only training he considered was the one to give Luke and Leia, but that idea had already been shut down by Yoda himself. What more training can be done?

”An old friend has learned the path to immortality. One who has returned from the netherworld of the Force. Your old master,” Master Yoda reveals, making Obi-Wan lose his mind another time in one day. He straightens his back immediately, eyebrows furrowing in surprise while he mouths his master’s name. How is this even possible? He cannot believe it, and yet he knows no reason for why Yoda would be lying. He tells many riddles, yes, but to lie at such situation?

While explaining shortly about there being a path in hearing or even seeing those that belong to the Force, Obi-Wan still could not grasp the idea. However, he did not keep himself too bothered by it when he realized it would be better off to start leaving with Luke. Master Yoda seemed to agree, him needing to go elsewhere to hide far from where he cannot be found.

Fortunately, Bail had not yet left and instead ensured him a nice tidied shuttle. Leia is within his arms while Luke is on his, and the two grown adults let the newborns connect hands for a few seconds before setting them apart. It hurt Obi-Wan to do such thing, but he knew it to be the best action done to protect them both. He trusts Bail to look after Leia, and… well, he does not trust himself any more, but he cannot trust anyone else with him.

Obi-Wan glances down at Luke and repeats, I do not trust anyone else with you. He senses something in his own mind, and he hides back his shock when notices a thin line connecting his mind with Luke’s barely developing one. The young newborn has latched himself onto him, probably since the instant he carried him. He forces himself to gulp harshly (because the last time someone did that, it had been Anakin clearly joyful to have found a new friend and teacher; he had easily bonded with him as if they have been connected since birth).

The Jedi Master (one of the very last) gently pats R2’s circular top as a goodbye, earning a small whistled beep somehow radiating off sadness despite being a droid, and giving a short goodbye to 3PO. In return, the protocol droid offered him more than a simple goodbye assuring him that he would help Leia in any way he can as he had done to Senator Amidala (which then had Senator Organa say quietly that he was going to erase the protocol droid’s mind). Soon afterwards, with supplies from the medical center and Bail’s, Obi-Wan arrived at his shuttle and carefully placed Luke onto a tiny cot with great protection.

He places both hands on the control system and powers it up, inputting coordinates for Tatooine. And yet, something stops him from immediately going. Instead, he pauses, and he stares carefully at the map layout in front of him. He knows Tatooine will be safer from ‘Darth Vader’ if he made it out alive, but it might not be Palpatine if he ever realizes the truth… Obi-Wan stares at himself by staring deeply into the ship’s window. His eyes close as if to rest before he feels another more twinges of pain within his own mind— more of his kind are being murdered, killed by men who they had trusted in. Obi-Wan had trusted them completely and they… they betrayed him. It was abrupt, and he senses something had gone wrong, but he cannot think about it. It will break him even further if he does. So, he lets it go onto the Force.

Quietly, he rubs his temple with great force being reopening his eyes as a sudden idea hit him. One that changes everything. Instead of taking Luke to Tatooine... instead of doing nothing but hiding... what if ensures Luke’s safety by protecting him, taking him wherever he goes within safe distance (after a few years have passed, after he actually does train him just the slightest to survive)? And what if instead staying under the radar, he does his best to provide help to those that calls for it? For any Jedi left to be helped, those damaged by the rise of the Empire?

He runs a hand through his beard, thinking. And with one look at Luke’s sleeping figure, Obi-Wan Kenobi makes three very important decisions. One, you will stay with me. Two, I will not let the Empire win. And three...

”I promise, with every single bit of my heart, young one, to take care of you and love you as my own,” Obi-Wan whispers, letting his eyes rest on the newborn while the words are taken in by the Force and by the newfound bond between them. I will not fail you, he mentions mentally. Not like how he failed him.

Chapter Text

Staring at his reflection, Obi-Wan continues to carefully shave his beard and mustache. Rather than being in space, he found an area to stay undercover for. The Empire still must expand its ruling and so he knows it will take some time before they begin conquering planets. For the meantime, however, he still landed all the way in Lothal considering it is still part of the Outer Rim and while it has some desert territories, there is a closer set of grasslands and buildings among them. Tatooine would have been a hell-driven area with its two burning suns and a few miles of separation from the criminal society.

Without the beard, Obi-Wan has noticed, he appears slightly younger. It had been the reason he decided to grow one in the first place. When he was first Knighted and had taken Anakin as his Padawan, he received comments about looking like he was younger than his actual age. So, while he trained little Anakin, he would let his facial hair grow to give an older appearance. A light smile reaches his lips, remembering how Anakin would tease him of doing such things every time he would stroke his beard. Upon the twitch of his lips, Obi-Wan simply freezes staring down at himself. He never realized how much his beard would hide his lips. Or the light tinted pink on his cheeks.

Obi-Wan glances away. There is apparently a lot more he did not know of himself and of his former padawan.

A small cry from the comforted pot Obi-Wan placed Luke in makes the older man stand from his place, walking gently toward the baby with extreme carefulness. He carries the infant in his arms and gently sways, wondering what more there is to do for such babies. He has never actually taken care of infants before. Obi-Wan adores younglings, he always has ever since he was three years in his apprenticeship with Master Qui-Gon. It did not start with him being awed by them, in fact, the reason he had to be around children had been as punishment for disobeying his master’s orders. Though, the younglings there had certainly been interesting and by the end of the day, he had been surrounded by the initiates all happily asking questions and his master smiling incredulously outside. They were not actually infants though, so that is giving him a new challenge.

“It’s alright, young Luke,” he whispers, sending calming waves toward the infant. The cries begin to dial down, and when Luke opens his eyes, his breaths sharpens. Those eyes... they are incredibly familiar. Colors reminding him of the lakes he has visited before, the radiant of waves pouring and reflecting among the clear skies. Or at least, the color before they turn into a golden flame. This time around, however, Luke is not entirely focus with his vision, but Obi-Wan does not worry too much of it. He knows infants are not completely developed and they learn over time. It is a surprise to him that his eyes are easy to open, but not that he can keep his focus straight on some figures.

Obi-Wan brings the boy closer to his chest, closing his own eyes while helping the child return to sleep. He hums slightly under his breath before speaking softly to himself, “We’re going to find a small home here in our shuttle. Next to the houses so we are free to wander close around. We won’t stay here forever, but you’ll need supplies one cannot simply get by traveling through the winds.”

Instead of continuing to speak out loud, Obi-Wan loses himself in his own thoughts. Being beardless gives him a slight advantage of being overlook— not for much since he still does look like himself, but at least to give time for a hint of surprise and whiplash. His name, however, is one of uniqueness. He can no longer be Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. It is too dangerous to be considered a Jedi or to even be called his own name.

Is he even Obi-Wan Kenobi anymore? Truthfully, it feels like if he died alongside his brother. The day Anakin Skywalker lost himself is the day Obi-Wan ceased to exist as well. He lost everything... even himself.

”Ben… My name is Ben Naas,” he declares quietly, staring down into the bright soul of the child. When he is old enough to understand names, he will tell Luke of his real one. The one that died along the rise of the Empire, and he will tell him of his own. He wants nothing more but for him to take his father’s name, but doing so is far too dangerous. Skywalker may be a common title in Tatooine, but it is not elsewhere.

Obi-Wan caresses Luke’s diligent cheeks and whispers, “I cannot name you, dear one. You will be free to choose when you are older, but for now... Luke Naas will suffice.”

It does not fit well. Not like how Ben does. Though, maybe that is because Ben truly is nothing and Luke is way more than a starlight. He is every bit of innocence and brightness that every child possesses if not more. It scares Obi-Wan to think he will truly raise him. What if he fails again? He would wonder ‘what if he gets attached again?’ but truthfully, he knows already that it will happen. He has not had the boy for long, but Obi-Wan would protect him with all he has got.

He presses a gentle kiss on Luke’s forehead before placing him back in between warm blankets. Obi-Wan forces himself not to startle when he feels a light tug on their tiny bond causing it to strengthen briefly with utter baby nonsense, but still quite strong. Something tells him that raising Luke will certainly be an experience. He just hopes it is a good one at that.

While Luke continues to sleep, Obi-Wan sits down beside him. He closes his eyes and heads to enter the Force’s embrace. However, instead of being faced with its usual warmth and guidance, all he senses is pure devastation and echoes of cries— of the Jedi who were murdered, trying to call for help. Quickly as he entered, Obi-Wan gasps himself out of the Force and grips onto the ground as if steadying himself despite already sitting. It feels worse than anything he has ever faced. Even more so than his broken bond with his master after Darth Maul killed him.

He forces himself to breathe in and out to calm himself. Despite this outbreak, Obi-Wan must still know how to contain himself or else he will project the darkness to the innocent light of Luke’s signature.

(“And you, Master. What does your heart tell you you're meant for?” asked his former Padawan, staring at him with curiosity.

And maybe Obi-Wan had already known all along how his fate was going to end. He had always known something was different with him. Though, there had been some hope left. How could he not have hope when he had Anakin?

“Infinite sadness,” Obi-Wan said, even while smiling).

His eyes wander around the silence and emptiness of the small shuttle.

He turned out to be right. His heart, as torn and wrecked as it already is, is meant for infinite sadness.

*

Three months passed, and while Ben kept a routine of taking young baby Luke in his arms during the morning so he can see the Loth cats and the shining sun, he was also careful about everything possible. A few people who believed him to be a single father gave him advice on how to be a parent (it shocked him the first time, but he took the advice to heart since he is taking care of a youngling). His only friends technically consisted of sellers since he would be on and about trying to feed Luke more than himself. And the little work that he did (ironically, fixing up droids despite not being the most great at it— at least, not like Anakin... he was always the very best) occurred in their shuttle/home so he did not have to leave Luke to himself.

And just like every day, Ben carries Luke on his arms while pointing out all sorts of objects visible to their eyes. He knows that when he is older, Luke will not be safe if he starts attending lessons at some sort of school (especially if the Empire continues to expand because then they will switch everything up) which means Ben will have to do some teaching himself. It should not be too bad considering he has given lessons before when he had received time off from the war and was allowed in the Temple. Anakin always hated to— he forces himself to stop thinking about that. 

(Or then he remembers the holo recording of him murdering the younglings with the same lightsaber has guarded and hidden alongside his).

Luke curls his tiny fingers around Ben’s tunic and switches head position to look another way. He is calm against his chest, simply staring at everything with the same awe as always. Like if he had not watched Ben walk through the same path every morning and afternoon, sometimes even heading toward the grasslands so they could see more Loth cats than the usual.

”How are you fairing, Rose?” Ben questions the elder woman, briefly giving her a short polite smile. Rose has always been kind to him, one of the people in awe of him being a single father taking care of his. She usually sows in her own time and two weeks within Lothal had let her complete a few clothing materials for Luke. Though, she sells organic food for him to make for himself while milk for Luke.

”Always the polite one, Ben,” Rose sighs amusingly. She gives him a smile in return before focusing on Luke, tapping his cheeks playfully while Luke simply gazes at her. A small cooing sound escapes his lips before he hides his face against Ben’s chest. Rose laughs at the action and shakes her head. She begins to place the usual items he asks for on a bag knowing he would hand her credits afterwards. “Oh, Luke. You’re adorable. How old is he now?”

Ben pressed a light kiss on his forehead before answering, “Three months and ten days.”

He knows it on the top of his head. While he likes to believe it is because of his love for Luke (which it is half true), it is because of him counting the days of when he lost his own brother. It is the day of pain and yet hope. Somehow, the two of them are caused by Skywalkers. Ben really should not be surprised.

“They grow so f—”

Before she can finish her sentence, a sudden alarm blasts through the screens around the buildings, all of them changing to the very same unit. Ben turns around with interest, his brows furrowing confusedly while gazing straight at the video ahead. Slowly, his lips twist into a frown. The Empire has received access to all the radio and screens, evident by the way Emperor Palpatine stands within the Senate building in Coruscant (other senators around him— he can briefly spot Bail off in the side and he wonders how Leia is doing) filled with authority. Some clones (all wearing the same helmets, no design, no color, and he wonders why they have killed his family for this? Why, Cody?) are guarding Palpatine as if the man himself is not a Sith.

”The hunt for the Jedi continues,” speaks the vile voice of the man that took everything from him. Obi-Wan freezes upon noticing the familiarity of the former Chancellor, dark robes covering his face mysteriously. He used to believe it was impossible to hate someone incredibly so, even Darth Mail had not been up to there considering Obi-Wan always tried his best to focus on the idea that Jedi do not hate.

But he is not a proper Jedi, and Palpatine took everything from him. Force, he probably had also been the reason for his master’s death. Was it not him that had created Darth Maul in the first place? Raised him to be cruel and tortured?

”But I have trust in the stormtroopers to find them,” Palpatine continues, motioning to the clones aiming to stand straight. Stormtroopers... they are not even referred to as the clone army anymore. Then again, he always preferred to call them the vode. They all treated each other as brothers, some closer than others, but each one of them their very own person. He forces himself to not think of them. It hurts to think his own men had decided to think of him as a traitor... what had he done? “And those found, as many have been already, faces the wrath of Darth Vader,” the Emperor announces, stepping briefly to the side to allow the grand entrance of a figure dressed all mechanically, the sound of heavy breathing intercepting through the screens.

Obi-Wan pales further, shoulders stiffening, heart beat speeding. His head, aching once more. No, no, no, he repeats. It cannot be— it cannot be him, no. His breathing increases and it feels hard to breathe, but he cannot panic in front of everyone and oh, Force he needs to just stop existing for a moment.

Three months, three months— three months have passed and Palpatine has just confirmed that Darth Vader, the murderer of Anakin Skywalker and all the youngling and Jedi is still very much alive.

How could he be such an idiot? Master Yoda had warned him and in his hesitation he had been prideful to think his brother’s suffering was long gone, but this... What had Palpatine said? ‘As many have already’ when speaking of the Jedi survivors... had he killed them? Torture them even? Obi-Wan stays frozen as he watches Darth Vader’s mask stare blankly toward the cameras, standing tall and threateningly.

His mind wonders if the man behind the machinery looks like his Anakin. Obi-Wan fears the answer, no matter what it is. He knew one day he would have to deal with Palpatine, but Vader...? Truthfully, he had no idea if he can do that. He should, he must, but it will kill him even further. What have I done? What have I caused? This is my fault, this all—

A small touch on his smooth cheek forces him to stop thinking, gentle and kind in ways that he has not been touched like for the longest time. His eyes gazes downwards to the three-month old in front of him, innocent eyes blinking right up and not doing anything except providing warmth he did not believed it to be possible to do. At least, not at that age. Ben lets out a shaky breath and does his best to smile, trying to let go of the negative emotions onto the Force knowing Luke has felt them.

Luke blinks again repeatedly before trying to mimic Obi-Wan’s smile, struggling to do so as his muscles weren’t entirely relaxed. Still, the intention was there, and that somehow made him feel better. Luke babbles quietly before resting his head against his chest again, instinctively.

”This Empire is expanding,” Rose mutters distastefully. She shakes her head, pointing back her glasses to their original position. Obi-Wan is at the least pleased their usual vender does not like them— he has been hearing already of some talk about roaming ideas to build an Imperial Academy. Teenagers and adult alike will be allowed to enter. “Soon enough, they will be here on Lothal,” she continues.

Unfortunately, Obi-Wan cannot disagree with that. He does not doubt the Empire would not want to take control of the Outer Rim as well. The thought of it disturbs the tyranny rule, and while he would want nothing except to destroy the Sith’s plans, his first priority is going to have to be Luke.

What an ironic statement... the Jedi were never meant to put one person above all (not like how Anakin had chosen to have his obsession with Padmé drive him to this monstrous act). They were able to love, yes, but they were not meant to be obsessive or possessive of the items they held dear to them. Anakin should have known this— Obi-Wan had to let go of the man closest to ever being a parental figure, the woman he fell in love with, and— and... he forced himself not to go there.

(He betrayed him, he should not still be feeling something over him except betrayal).

Either way, now his loyalty lies to Luke. It does not come without price, however. He does not know why or how he is thinking of this, but to him... Luke is a symbol of hope. The light in him is incredibly strong even at three months old. He will struggle when he is older, but Obi-Wan hopes this time he will not fail him. He would not be able to bare it if he does.

After he pays Rose, Ben snugs Luke closer to his body before leaving the area back to their shuttle. His head lies against the pilot chair, lightly tapping onto the floor. One day he will leave. It will be either when Luke is older, or when the Empire starts to conquer worlds like Lothal. He wants to help the slow rebellion he knows Bail is constructing, but he knows his help will come from outside of it. Still, he does not know when it will actually start.

”Vader is alive,” Ben comments slowly, letting his gaze falls to the child struggling to move from his position in the ground. At the name of the man who murdered his father, Luke glances up and stares at Ben with curiosity. Ben tilts his head to the side, thoughtfully. Does Luke have some sort of understanding? He cannot help but simply watch as Luke places himself in front of him and grabs his hand. That is all he does physically. However, Ben appears taken back when he senses another presence in his mind, pushing through the barriers upheld within and feeling only a light warmth.

Oh, Force. Luke is bright.

“Dear one,” Ben whispers softly. He lets his hand go over Luke’s chubby cheeks and light growing hair on his head. “I’m alright. You need not to worry about me,” he continues kindly.

To show his truth, he lets himself project amusement and gratitude knowing those two are positive emotions for Luke to feel. As if enlightened at the reaction, Luke opens his mouth and twists it upwards as if to grin. Ben mimics the motion with his own small smile and tickles the child’s side with gentle fingers. Although not able to laugh, Ben is suddenly more than glad to realize he was not dumb to shut off his connection to the Force. Not when that would mean cutting off the bond between the two. It is only his bond with Luke that makes him want to stay alive.

(Or else he fears he would have plunged his own lightsaber through his chest and die like the rest of the Jedi— only two of them left...).

*

Luke is six months old, and the Empire only grows stronger. By then, Ben has occupied himself by becoming an anonymous radio announcer doing his best to reveal the dark past of Emperor Palpatine and by making his own research in scheming involvements happening through the Outer Rims and high planets with Bail’s help. He reports the factual evidence provided for him while continuing his work as a mechanic and caretaker of the young baby.

Ben makes sure he has his face clean shaven since most recognized Obi-Wan Kenobi by his former beard and Coruscanti accent— he still has the accent, but at times he tries to steer away from using it (although he does not enjoy changing it considering it feels wrong). Though, his hair has grown even longer, more so than when he had it before the Clone Wars had begun. The grey in his sides grew along his auburn-colored hair, but it has not grown overboard. He has a feeling that if he were in Tatooine, his skin and hair would have made him appeared way old already. His skin does not do well on the sun and thankfully, Lothal only has one of them and he has a good shuttle to keep him protected.

Luke continues to grow as well. And Obi-Wan loves him each day a whole lot more. His smile shines as it widens and once he let out his first giggle, Ben knew there was nothing he would not do for the young child.

(That was a little white lie since he knew that since the first time Luke opened his eyes for the first time).

“While clone troopers, formerly to have been working alongside the Jedi Order and Republic— both now fallen— are still working under the Empire, the Imperial Academy has now been fully developed to train teenagers and adults to become full stormtroopers. When involved, freedom is limited and all order must be completely disciplined or there are rumors of decommissioning,” Ben speaks over the private comm connecting him to countless of radios all over the Outer Rim and upper planets. His knowledge Anakin had once given him has helped him gain access to such thing, though, he has to occasionally scramble the connections in order to not be traced. In addition, it is usually during those times where he makes sure he does not use his Coruscanti accent.

”Decommissioning is not any new to the Empire’s ground rules. Sheev Palpatine has been called ‘Supreme Chancellor’ before during the time of the Republic and had endorsed decommissioning, or in other words, killed, troopers before when not fit into their status quo,” Ben mentions, closing his eyes at the remembrance of his men fear of being decommissioned during the first few months. After some time, however, they seem to realize he would not make them be killed if he did not find them suitable. He always did not like for that idea to even exist. When his commander had gone to him with an idea to start a batch of troopers with slight alterations to the cloning of Jango Fett, he had accepted immediately for Batch 99 to exist. Even now despite everything... he would have never want them to experience being decommissioned. It was cruel and inhuman.

”The Jedi Council had not approved of such act, but their role under the Republic could not allow them to intervene in saying otherwise,” Ben could not help but input, making it clear to whose alliance his heart goes with. And he knows without question the Council truly did not enjoy such thing. Sure, not many of them had been great friends like Plo Koon, Mace, and himself were, but all of the Council (not the whole Order, as proof with Krell) had at least agreed with that rule. “Additionally, I’ve gain knowledge in the Empire’s complete grasp on Coruscant. A planet that had once been corrupted, but beautiful. Now it has become an imprisonment for all remaining surviving Jedi and opposers of the Empire.”

His eyes wander toward Luke’s fascinated look at his radio, listening in close as if he understands each word despite Ben knowing it is just because he enjoys hearing him talk. There was a slight confused twitch of head sideways, clearly still not used to the different accent, but something still made him recognize Ben all on his own.

”That is all I have for today. Remember, trust in your feelings,” Ben finishes, the words ‘may the Force be with you’ on the tip of his tongue, but not voiced out loud. He ends the radio signaling before widening his arms and letting Luke giggle as he is lifted up and played with.

Ben makes small noises of ships flying knowing the child enjoys it more than anything. His favorite toy consists of a toy Ben built himself, soft and plushie with the shape of an old Republic ship. The only ones being sold now are the Empire’s ships of TIE fighters and some other huge ones. He did not feel like buying from that brand. And since he has a sudden great amount of free time when not trying to earn credits, be right beside Luke, or broadcasting for a slow start on the rebellion... then he developed some new hobbies. Either way, it has been completely easy to realize that Luke adores ships like his father before him.

He has no idea how Anakin looked like as a baby, but with the way Luke is... he has a feeling they are more than similar.

”Now, do you want a story or would you like to find a friend to find?” Ben questions Luke, bringing the six month old in front of him. All Luke does is blink at him. Ben rubs his chin momentarily as if in deep thought before nodding in agreement. “Ah, yes. You are correct, young Luke. It is getting dark.”

Luke cannot speak yet, but Ben pretends he does since the child always stares at him as if he is saying more than silence. And when he babbles, Ben knows there is a hidden language for babies. Not for anything to have control over, but their minds continue to develop and he theorizes they might have a clear understanding on their own head, but cannot speak it wisely. Plus, it is especially adorable when Luke babbles right after Obi-Wan asks him a question. Even if there is no correct pronunciation, Ben fills in the blanks with what he knows how Luke is.

“Well then,” Ben murmurs, lifting Luke and placing him neatly on his lap. Luke simply grins toothlessly and cradles his plushie against his own chest. Ben smiles softly down at him before humming in thought. Then, he makes a small sound of realization to excite Luke (cue the small twitching of excitement). “Mmh, when your father was eighteen years old, he believed I never knew of his decision to sneak out from the temple and had decided he wanted to go on his own for a full-adult drink— which you are not allowed to do until you are of age, or I give you permission.”

He gives Luke a pointed look that only causes him to giggle unknowingly.

”Anyway, your father had gone off on his speeder and I always knew when he would go off so I would stay awake until he returned. This time, however, he had not returned as he usually did and after waiting more than pass time, I reached out toward him...”

Ben continues to tell the old memory, letting his gaze wander toward the small window he allowed toward the pilot center so they can view the sky. He hands Luke his bottle of milk while continuing. That memory is one of the many where Anakin had gotten himself in trouble. Obi-Wan truly used to stay awake waiting for his former padawan. When he had reached out to him, he noticed the sense of annoyance and buzzy feeling within their bond line and because of that, he had gone out downtown Coruscant only to find his padawan completely drunk and when blood on the side of his temple.

Then they had gotten attacked so Obi-Wan had to sober him up and have a tiny mission during the middle of the night that required him to wire an assassin’s ship. It had been interesting, to say the least.

Though, he kept the story a bit more appropriate for Luke even though he will not remember it when he is older. Still, Ben will make sure to remember.

*

“Papuh,” Luke repeats, again. Ben tilts his head confusingly. Lately, the youngling has been saying ‘papuh’ more than usual. The first time he done it had, Ben had been showing him his drawing (completely had drawn) of Anakin while saying ‘dad’ since he wanted Luke to know who his father had been. Though, Ben has no idea why he keeps trying to say ‘paper’ instead.

There is no paper in front of him.

”Okay, Luke, what’s papuh?” Ben sighs, keeping his arms out to hold the young boy by his own arms. Luke wobbles, as expected, but he tries his best to keep himself up with his help.

Though, he points a finger at Ben causing him to wobble some more.

”Papuh!”

”... paper?”

Luke frowns slightly. “Pa...” he sounds out slow. “Pa?”

Pa...Pa— Force, Ben is an idiot.

”You are talking about your father,” Ben says carefully, giving him a kind smile. Luke frowns once more and points at his chest. Alright, so he is more of an idiot than he believes himself to be.

”Pa...Pa,” he repeats, more emphasize toward the last two letters. Luke places his hand on his chin thoughtfully before brightening and pointing at his heart. “Da!”

“Osik,” Ben lets out, eyes widening. Then, they widen even more and he tells Luke firmly, “Never say that.”

He would not want a youngling to one day be telling others ‘osik’. What dishonorable speaking matter... at times, at least.

A smile reaches his lips at Luke’s words. He was calling him ‘papa’ while also knowing that his real dad is Anakin. Dear Force, who even taught him how to say ‘papa’? Either way, Ben does not find himself minding. He places a sweet kiss on Luke’s forehead.

”Lu’ika,” Ben smiles wider. He projects all his love and awe toward the young boy causing Luke to grin. He had never been sure what he would be to Luke. If Anakin and Padmé had been alive, he would have loved to be the eccentric uncle. Alas, they are not and he does not see it fit to see himself as one. A replacement is even worse, except he is not that either. But... he is something and he will make sure everyone else knows it as well— even if it is in a language only certain people speak.

“Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad,” he murmurs to Luke softly. I know your name as my child. There is a certain ease between them even as Luke does not understand the meaning yet. He says them now as he is a baby, but he will ask again when he is older. Choices always matters to him. And if Luke does not want to find himself apart of their own family, then so be it. Even if it hurts Ben.

When the next day came, Obi-Wan did the same thing as usual. Take a morning stroll with Luke, buy their necessities, avoid any Imperial-looking people, become a mechanic, always take care of Luke and teach him of sounds, words, and walking, and at last, his usual radio broadcast. He began teaching him some Mando’a as well since he figured only Mandalorians and a few other people speak it which gives them a high advantage of not being understood. With ten months in and Luke crawling all over, Ben began to be busy once more, though in matters that involve taking care of younglings. 

And yet, there is still a long way to go.

Chapter Text

The Empire has been expanding further on its root, the Senate no longer known simply as the Senate, but as the Imperial Senate as if that changes everything. Planets have been conquered, the symbols of the Empire beginning to appear everywhere in sight. It takes a slight more time for it to reach the Outer Rim, but it is occurring slowly. By those that believe in whatever cause of ‘peace’ the Empire believes itself to be doing. They have the slogan of ‘peace’ as if they do not murder those that oppose their beliefs.

Lothal has been receiving Imperial members and Obi-Wan has kept watch between them and the Pryce Mining that has occurred for longer with generations of families. Still, he always kept himself and Luke nearby the grass fields so he is surrounded by the loth-cats and farm markets. Fortunately, no clone troopers has been in sight and the stormtroopers themselves are not bright... at all. Though, that might mean that they are being send to something bigger, something better for the ex-Chancellor.

Obi-Wan closes his eyes and slowly reaches out to the Force. The first few months after the Empire began, he avoided stepping inside knowing he would only reach darkness and emptiness. However, he forced himself to take a step forward as he remembered Master Yoda’s words and let himself be unraveled with hope since that is all Luke ever gives him.

He lets himself relive his memories with Anakin, since a nine-year old boy and twenty-five year old man were paired up. The two of them growing up together with hardships and a brotherly bond. And then joined in his grandpadawan, Ahsoka Tano. A young Togruta who unfortunately faced the truth of war and grew up a warrior before her family had left her. The Jedi Order did not support her when she needed it the most and Obi-Wan remembers that his and Plo’s support had not been enough. He thinks about all his friends belonging to the Jedi and not, still wondering how many survived and how many did not.

Obi-Wan forces himself to let it go. To remember each and every memory completely, but to not let it invade his mind and decisions. Luke does not deserve to be involved with his worries.

And then, the memories pass him until it reaches the days where he was a padawan under Master Qui-Gon’s apprenticeship. His own master, a man almost like a father to him. They had a bumpy road, but when they finally reached an understanding with each other, they became like a family. And then he lost him that night at Theed. He told him to train Anakin Skywalker, and he failed.

He failed Anakin.

He failed the Jedi.

He failed the civilians of the Republic.

And he failed Master Qui-Gon.

’Obi-Wan,’ a whispered voice washes over his mind. He keeps his eyes closed, but he stiffens slightly. The voice sounds distorted as if they are far away and being heard through a half broken comm link. Then again, the voice is one he has been trying to reach ever since Master Yoda informed him there was still more learning he needs to know. ‘Let go.’

But... he does not want to. What if he lets go and everything breaks?

’Let— go— Padawan,’ Qui-Gon sounds far away at times, but then he does not. Obi-Wan does his best to listen to his master’s statement, letting himself be unraveled within the Force. All at the same, he finds himself looking for his master’s voice.

Slowly, he begins to open his eyes. Obi-Wan is still in a meditation stance, and it is confirmed as instead of being inside his shuttle, he is nowhere and everywhere. What shocks him the most, however, is the familiar figure in front of him. One he has not properly seen since the day he died. The man who defied the Council at any chance given and yet still taught Obi-Wan more than enough.

”Master,” Obi-Wan breathes out shakily.

And above all, his former master smiles. Qui-Gon stands tall as he had always been, hands forward as if playing with the inner of his sleeves (something familiar Obi-Wan used to do). He does not have a physical body... not really, at least. There is a blue aura around him like a ghost more than a being. Obi-Wan tilts his head with both curiosity and disbelief.

”Hello, my not-so-young Padawan,” Qui-Gon greets normally, somehow appearing glad to be seeing Obi-Wan. But why? He has failed him. In both his teachings and his request— Obi-Wan failed. As if sensing his thoughts (though, perhaps more of his emotions if anything), Qui-Gon’s smile slightly falters and he stares at Obi-Wan with concern. “The fall of the Jedi is not your fault, Obi-Wan,” he says assuredly.

Obi-Wan chuckles bitterly. “No, of course not. I just happened to be the man who failed to raise him correctly,” he grits out, more angry at himself than anything else.

He stiffens slightly as the older dead man walks toward him. Qui-Gon stops immediately when noticing the shift and he nods understandingly. Obi-Wan does not think he will be mentally alright if he lets his former master try and comfort him with an invisible touch.

”I must apologize,” says Qui-Gon, a frown on his lips. “I requested something of you that left you with a great burden—”

”No—” Obi-Wan cuts off immediately, and then a crestfallen expression appears. Two years and he still wants to say that Anakin Skywalker had been a blessing for all the time they spent together. He is dead, and yet alive. It is true that he had been upset that his master’s last words had to do with some random boy, but then it was not just some random boy... it was Anakin. He struggled, yes, but he enjoyed spending time with him until— 

Until he killed everyone he loved, including himself.

Qui-Gon, or his ghost (whatever it is called), simply stares at him carefully as if trying to depict something out of him. Then, he gives him a almost pitiful gaze.

”You didn’t make him choose this path, Obi-Wan,” he tells him, slowly. Almost like if saying it another way would break him. Obi-Wan cannot blame him for his carefulness (if this is even true or if he is going insane), but he still does not like it.

”I was blinded,” Obi-Wan scoffs. And it is more than true. Even days before his apprentice’s fall, Master Windu had warned him and Master Yoda, but he was blind to his former padawan’s path because of how much he loved and trusted him. He had defended him, as he usually did. And now Master Windu is dead. Every other Jedi...

“Everyone was,” Qui-Gon states. “Not just you. Maybe some others noticed more than expected, but the darkness was clouded everywhere either way. Obi-Wan—”

Before the conversation can go any further, Obi-Wan is taken out of meditation by a strong push against his mind. He finds himself gasping, almost heading to shield himself completely (because they found me, oh no, I have to do all I can to protect Luke—) before recognizing the signature that brushed against him. His eyes open, and instead of seeing his force ghost master, a tiny blonde boy stands before him.

”Buir,” Luke calls out in Mando’a, his pronunciation still improving by the day. Now it actually has a small accent behind it when in the beginning it had been said as ‘boor’. His small hands reach up to Obi-Wan’s tunic and shakes them impatiently. “Ash’ad... ti aaray,” he raises to attention.

Obi-Wan stands up quickly, his meditation and conversation with Qui-Gon leaving out of his mind in an instant. Luke’s hesitated and yet almost clear words were meant to be taken seriously. Someone else is in pain— the literal translation is simply ‘someone else with pain’, but the words are clear enough for all the Mando’a the young two year old has learned.

He kneels in front of the blonde boy who fidgets impatiently in his feet. Luke is an energetic boy who spends his time running and playing with loth-cats or with Ben himself. Since it is a danger to use the Force out in the public, Obi-Wan always makes sure the young boy does not simply drown out his powers knowing they will most likely combust by itself after not using it for long. So, instead he slowly teaches him how to move a few of his toys around. Of course, doing such thing takes ages to actually do, but by the end of it he grows tired and takes a nap.

Instead of questioning his boy, Obi-Wan stares down at the ground intensely, searching for the boy’s worries out within Lothal. He did not find it unusual that Luke was more tuned to people’s pain— it became evident when he would become too invested in his own suffering which would soon become noticeable to Luke himself. It forced Obi-Wan to become even more careful, all things considered.

A frown embeds on to his lips when sensing exactly what Luke had moments before. There was something... familiar. Whoever it is, however, they are in pain. And not only should Obi-Wan offer help because Luke seems to be quite determine to do so for his two year old self, but because something tells Obi-Wan he must. 

Carefully, Obi-Wan stands up and carefully ruffles the blond hair of his ad. Now that he is aware of such presence, he senses danger nearby. Taking Luke with him will endanger him further, but leaving him here... well, that is dangerous as well. No one should end up going to their place; they have no reason to. That does not mean he wishes to leave Luke alone. He is barely two years old— he can’t. Not when everything can go wrong out of nowhere.

A sigh escapes him while glancing down at Luke. There is not much thought to it, truthfully. Though, he does not enjoy putting Luke within danger.

”Shekemir ni— ‘shekemir’ means follow, Lu’ika,” Obi-Wan tells the young boy, holding out his hands to allow Luke to go to him. Eagerly, Luke flexes his tiny hands toward him and grips onto his tunics. In a low (and audible) whisper, Luke tries to repeat the word the older man said. His brows furrow determinedly while trying to pronounce the mando’a word. It is how he has been teaching him. From being called ‘papa’, Luke had insisted in learning how to say ‘buir’ instead. Though, he still calls the memory of Anakin ‘dad’ (or technically, ‘da’) when referring to him.

With Luke clinging to his side, Obi-Wan momentarily glances to the locked box on the side. Two lightsabers rest inside: his former Padawan’s blazing blue and his own. He has connected with his crystal, but he has not continued training with his lightsaber since it is not considerably safe for Luke or in general. Any sign of a glowing light would make them get in trouble and he cannot risk that. Though, he has practiced the forms with a casual stick. Sometimes Luke tries to copy his movements, but he still appears starstruck when trying to twist the stick around.

He cannot expose himself with the lightsabers. That would certainly catch the people’s interest and while the citizens of Lothal are alright, he cannot trust them. Governor Azadi stands with the people of Lothal, but he has his own issues being dealt with Senator Renking and the Pryce Mining. This adds another reason (other than the obvious) as to why he misses the past years.

Since he is unable to defend himself with sabers, Obi-Wan clutches Luke firmly onto his side before stepping out to the open. The youngling positions himself in a matter that reminds Obi-Wan of his time at Ryloth when the 212th and him were to help the kidnapped civilians of Twi’leks.

He remembers vividly the way a herd of gutkurr tried to eat his men. A couple of them were unable to escape and when they were about to eat another, he had dropped his saber in order to grasp the gutkurrs’s attention away from all of them. And as always, he found his lightsaber. It was always him. Obi-Wan swallowed harshly at the cold reminder of a hole internally embedded on his heart.

When had everything changed? He does not know.

Still, Luke’s position reminded him of Numa— the young Twi’lek found by Waxer and Boil. She had been fond of the two brothers, and fond of Obi-Wan himself, proven by the way she ignored the danger ahead of her just to help the three of them stand up. And she had left a mark on both of his men as well. Waxer drew her in his helmet as a reminder of the young girl he helped and of the innocence he... Obi-Wan lets the small smile drop from his lips.

Waxer died on Umbara because of Pong Krell’s deceitful plan. Many of his own men and the 501st were lost that day; the two sides killed by their own brothers.

Would Waxer have also...? Obi-Wan pauses in his steps. Did his men plan to betray him because of his failures? He shakes his head immediately. Even if that were true, it was absolutely ridiculous. How would all of them agree on such thing? How could C—

They couldn’t. But they did. And it does not match up but Obi-Wan cannot let himself dwell on false hope or any thoughts surrounding them because then it will never stop aching.

“Gaa'taleer adate?” Luke whispers, making Obi-Wan turn his attention toward him. The way the young boy pronounces the mando’a words makes Ben smile. By the day he continues to learn. He does not call him incredibly smart, but Luke certainly is quick to learn even the new aspects.

”Yes, young one. We’re going to help them, but you have to stay close to me, alright?” Ben warns him, letting the short accent of his former life— one where he used to live in— come to front. He tends to avoid it like some sort of plague when speaking to others on Lothal or on his occasional communicator around the galaxy. It is best for people to not take notice where he comes from and if he sounds familiar or not. Especially if Darth Vader or Palpatine ever find the radio source.

Luke does not respond directly, but he wraps his arms closer to Obi-Wan’s neck and lays his head onto his chest. Ben lets himself follow his senses. Again, the presence is familiar, but not extremely so. Whoever it is, however, he has met them. The only comfort he currently has is the fact that it is not Darth Vader. Unlike Palpatine, Vader seems to make sure people feel his power thrive through him. Then again, Palpatine always had power even when it was not known that he was a Sith Lord. He just simply knew when to show it around.

There rests a ship out in the open, but the pain comes from the side where a person lies on the ground while four men have teamed up against him. Two of them start heading to the ship (and it looks incredibly familiar, most likely an Imperial model) while the other two blast the poor man on the ground. By the looks of it, the shots were hit in areas that just weakens people, not kill them immediately. 

Still incredibly dangerous for Luke to accompany him. His eyes wander carefully before noticing three Loth-cats staring up at him. An eyebrow raises in slight amusement. It seems the Force seems eager to help this person if they truly let a questionable but secured solution to appear before them. Slowly, he bends down and places Luke onto his feet. His hand grasps the tiny cloth of Luke’s shirt.

”I’ll come back. Stay here, vorer?” Obi-Wan whispers, giving a firm look at the kid.

Luke nods determinedly. “Vorer,” he repeats.

He smiles warmly and presses a light kiss on the blond’s forehead. With a small ruffle of his hair, he sends a wave of protecthimplease to the Loth-cats. Externally, they simply tilt their head, but internally, he knows they have understood him especially when they just start surrounding Luke as if they will play with him.

Obi-Wan does his best to quietly arrive to the scenery, eyes narrowing with focus while trying to distinguish the offenders. Afraid of being recognized, he tugs his cloak closer to his face and lets himself blend within the meadow. They are too focused on the man to notice him. Good.

Though, the person is not completely defenseless. A blaster seems to be held tightly on his left arm considering the right one appears injured. Another blaster lies within a few feet away; closer to Obi-Wan if he heads forward which is exactly what he ends up doing. Just in time for the attackers to notice, Obi-Wan reaches for the blaster smoothly and shoots straight out toward the opposers. He injures their shoulder and leg as a warning, and upon blasting off their own weapons, all of them swarm off to the ship.

The injured person beside him groans and lies down, blaster falling to the side while both of his hand goes toward his awful injury on his stomach. Obi-Wan turns to him and his mind goes to a complete blank.

All this time, he had known the signature had been familiar. And yet, he was not ready to see a face he had been surrounded with for about three whole years. One that led to him fighting for their lives and yet ended up being almost extinct by them.

A clone.

But not just any clone. No, not at all. It is one that may not even be considered a clone with his normal aging and experience with a parental figure.

Boba Fett.

A young boy he had met when investigating who was trying to kill Senator Amidala. Of course, it turned out to be Jango Fett (and they should have realized long ago that something was wrong. Why would a Mandalorian bounty hunter help the Jedi when they had heard stories of Jango Fett having killed six Jedi with his bare hands? He was surprised the first time when they met for the first time since all they both did was have an extremely intense eye contact. He had felt bad for young Boba to simply glance at them in confusion.) that was after her which led to the discovery of the clone army.

Force, he cannot be older than fifteen years old. Obi-Wan knows that since he had been ten in their first meet which then followed on three years of the Clone Wars and now two years since the rise of the Empire. He was not a man (despite the difference of Mandalorian culture along with Coruscant’s legal terms), but a young teenager.

Forcing himself to focus back to the matter at hand, Obi-Wan kneels down beside the teenager and places down the blaster (a device he still does not think is civilized but has to tolerate either way for its usefulness).

Bona grunts, trying and failing to push his hand away while the other grips tightly onto his own blaster. Considering his state, Boba’s head plops down to the ground and all he is lift with is trying to shake his head.

”Relax,” Obi-Wan murmurs, glancing down at the bleeding injury on his stomach. He would have tried Force suggesting him, but with Jango Fett having been his father... he is sure Boba would try to resist it. “Let me help you,” he adds, quieter.

However, it seems he did not have to since a few seconds later, Boba Fett loses battle against consciousness and closes his eyes.

Well... there’s that.

Returning back to the ship was interesting, to say the least. He had returned to Luke who was innocently playing with the Loth-cats as he was left. Considering he had to carry an unconscious boy back with them, he was fortunate that Luke (while a tad wobbly) knew how to walk and was able to last until the first step on the ground of the ship. Still, he seemed to be proud of himself just as how Ben was.

With Boba now lying on Ben’s place, he first turned to Luke in order to carry him to his little playing area before returning back to the injured kid. Now, Ben is not an expert at healing, but he was a master of trying to hide them which did give him some pointers. Plus, he has the Force and that always tended to help.

(There was also the fact that he used to have a troublesome padawan who would be involved in the most randomness fights causing Obi-Wan to heal him with exasperation every time).

After applying bacta and a bandage to Boba’s injury, Luke appeared beside Obi-Wan and stared innocently at the unconscious person. There was a curious look on his face, but not any suspicion or worry. Luke seems to always see the good in people and expresses it with his kind baby face.

”Okay?” Luke questions in Basic, head tilting to the side. Obi-Wan smiles down at him gently.

”He will be,” says Obi-Wan, turning his attention back to the boy on his bed. A thoughtful look crosses his face as to how and why the Force nudged the two of them to Boba’s direction. He holds out his arms and carries Luke. “Let’s just let him rest, okay?”

Enthusiastically, Luke nods firmly and then hides his face on the side of Obi-Wan’s face. Even without the small mumbles, Ben can guess what he wants to say. And so, he places his own blanket across Boba’s figure before heading toward Luke’s area and comforting the place for the two of them.

He is unsure of what to think, but Boba’s weapons are out of reach and view and he places hope that the kid does not try anything for the meantime. And with Luke on his mind and arms, Obi-Wan knows that is all that can be done.

Yet he wonders, and then dreams of the same face with different people.

Chapter Text

21 BBY — CORUSCANT

“Obi-Wan, did you hear?” Anakin questioned loudly, undoubtedly doing so to alert everyone of his presence. His stance towered others constantly, height taller than all the troopers and GAR men with an everlasting heroic posture as an unsaid symbol to the Republic. There lied a not-so-discreetly hidden amusement on his eyes that indicated how the next few things said would be interesting, or random.

The elder of the two turned toward the Jedi Knight, a tiredness bestowed within his face which goes ignored. Obi-Wan’s face covered itself with dirt and untreated, small wounds. The battle the 212th returned from was more than difficult, many of their men having been lost mid-battle despite his attempts to not have so many. It was almost impossible, but alas, they did managed a score. Barely, if not almost defeated.

”I imagined I would not have seeing as I was clearly busy,” Obi-Wan drawled, a huge breath having escaped through his nostrils. Not in anger or anything since he was rather glad to see his former Padawan, but the battle truly took a toll on him. Despite not wanting to, he knew it best to head to the medics once more for some painkillers and to get checked over.

Halo was likely to already be hunting them down. The Jedi Master had hid himself locked right in his room on the ship, hoping it’ll make their medics focus on the rest of the troopers first.

(Unfortunately, there are legal terms that specifically state that if the General is hurt, the medics must pay attention to their health over others. Obi-Wan knows he is able to survive; the rest of the men, however, cannot be said the same thing).

”Ah, right,” Anakin paused, staring at his former Master with great concern. “How did the battle go?”

Obi-Wan shook his head. He preferred not to talk any longer of the losses. They might have had some sort of victory, but it was not a win. The war continues to grow stronger; suffocating all of them in darkness.

”Why don’t you tell me what you were referring to instead?” He changed the subject, running a hand over his eyes with exhaustion. After his conversation with Anakin, he knows that soon after he will end up writing the reports likely with the help of Commander Cody.

Anakin eyes him warily before nodding slowly. Considering the younger man also is the face of the Republic so-called heroes (with Obi-Wan, unfortunately, being the other half), he likely understands. Likely, being the key word. Sometimes what Anakin imagines the truth to be isn’t as it is. Or else, he would be a whole lot more trusting to Obi-Wan.

”While you were out, Master Windu and I faced some complications within the cadets in training,” Anakin revealed, rubbing the back of his neck. Obi-Wan took the time to notice that his former Padawan did have a bandage wrapped against his torso, barely visible as laid under his black tunics.

Commander Cody, who stood only a few feet away from the two generals, stiffened at the sudden reveal. Obi-Wan glanced at him knowingly considering he knew the way his second-in-command tended to act. His loyalty, while to the Republic and Jedi, runs deep when it comes to his brothers. He watched over them at any chance given and they become the reason why the two of them stay up at times to figure out the best strategy. Hearing about cadets, younglings that are in training, is more than worrying if they faced a complication.

”What happened? Are the cadets alright?” Obi-Wan wondered, now clearly in the need to know.

Anakin waved his hand over. “They are alright. We have it handled now, but someone did try to assassinate Master Windu,” he explains vaguely.

That does nothing to ease Obi-Wan. He frowned, staring at the younger man with patience and yet unfulfilled curiosity.

”Well, is he alright?” Obi-Wan sighed. Considering there has not been an official call for a Council meeting, the answer likely will be yes, but it was still a respectable question to ask. Mace was his friend. Older, of course, and slightly stern, but a good friend nonetheless.

Anakin nods. “It’s fine. We caught the person trying to kill him. Get this,” he continues, leaning toward his former Master. With a few taps onto his datapad, he opens it to a section showing a clone cadet. At the picture, Obi-Wan furrowed his eyebrows while his Commander no longer pretended to be on the side and leaned forward as well.

”It was a cadet,” Anakin scoffs. Obi-Wan widened his eyes in disbelief, and leaned forward toward the holograph showing the said cadet. Except, while he did look like a cadet, there was something familiar about him. Anakin paused before he shook his head. “Well, not really a cadet. He was pretending to be one. Remember Fett?”

Before Obi-Wan could say anything further, Anakin changed the image to a completely destroyed Mandalorian helmet.

”His son wanted revenge,” he finished, pursing his lips tightly. Clearly, he was not pleased with the kid.

Obi-Wan frowned even deeper. “I remember him… I tried… well, that does not matter any more,” he murmured quietly. Still audible, but quiet.

”Boba? He’s alive? Where has he been?” Commander Cody questions, eyebrows scrunched your together. With the familiar voice of Jango Fett, in addition to that special tone that belongs to Cody himself, the two generals turn toward the man.

Anakin rose an eyebrow. “You know that kid?”

Cody turned toward Obi-Wan while answering the question, “He was Prime’s actual son. Sometimes he would… sneak in. Curious about the rest of us. I knew him a bit more.”

This time, he turned toward Anakin. “What have they done with him? Is he… okay?”

”He tried to kill a Jedi and General, but yes, he’s okay. Except he is imprisoned since again, he almost killed Master Windu. And worked with these bounty hunters who killed Commander Ponds along the destruction of the ship…” Anakin listed continuously. He grimaced slightly. “That kid has problems.”

Obi-Wan gave him a deadpanned look. Anakin ignored it and shrugged as he said, “What? I’m right. Anyway, I have to go find Rex and Ahsoka. See you later, Obi-Wan.”

The young general went out from their way leaving Cody and Obi-Wan to themselves. Obi-Wan kept his eye on his Commander, noticing the slight stiffness within him. It had to do with Boba Fett. The young ten year old who saw his father murdered. Obi-Wan cannot say he blames him for trying to murder Mace. Does he want his friend dead? No, of course not. However, a child should never see the death of their parents. Not like that. Not being killed.

”General, sir… Is there a chance I could visit him?”

Obi-Wan glanced at his Commander, and gave him a short smile. “Of course, Cody. I’m sure we can contact Commander Fox and grant us a visit,” he assured calmly.

17 BBY — LOTHAL

Ben stirs on the cup of tea, not even flinching when he senses a presence behind him and a sudden kitchen utensil aiming at his neck. He quirked an eyebrow while filled with amusement. Considering he took all of the young Boba Fett’s weapons from his reach and hid them for the meantime, it is more than amusing to see that his first alternative is a kitchen utensil. Truthfully, it wouldn’t be too bad if it were a knife. Unfortunately, for Boba, it is not a knife but a spatula. That is definitely a new one.

“Who are you?” growls the voice of someone he has heard more than a thousand times. Two years ago, for three years straight, the same voice was the common necessity having more clone troopers than Jedi Knights existing. Except, this one sounded more like an angry teenager.

Slowly, Ben turns around to face the likely fifteen year old. He is taller than the last time they had seen each other which was honestly saying something considering he truly had been tall. And knew very well how to throw a punch as evident to when he was disguised as Rako Hardeen. His face had not changed much except become sterner and similar wearing to any other bounty hunter: devoid of emotion. Even then, he looks both young and older than his age. Eyes hiding the truth of whatever he desires.

While he analyze the kid, the young Fett does the same to him. It became obvious with how at first glance there had been no recognition, but a slow dawn began to simmer down. The fingers around the spatula tightened as if that will do anything. Boba glances down at the clothes Ben wears and then back at his still-bare face.

”You’re still alive,” Boba scoffs disbelievingly. He sounds only surprise, but nothing more. Back during the Clone Wars, he had visited Fett’s child while his imprisonment, but they were not friends do acquaintances. Boba had long since swore to not speak to the Jedi, any of them, and only ever watched him with suspicion. Though unsure of it, Ben likes to think that at one point the young boy had at least lessened his hatred for him as his suspicion lowered.

Ben tilts his head curiously. “So I am,” he agrees quietly. His eyes lower toward the bandage wrapped around the teenager. “You almost were not,” he points out.

Boba stays silent while he simply watches him like a predator would do to another they desire to kill or injure.

The older man lets out a tired chuckle and gives Boba an amused expression. He makes sure to have his gaze directly to his eyes as he murmurs, “I truly do not believe that spatula will hurt me, Boba.”

”I wouldn’t underestimate me,” Boba sneers, placing down his hand. He drops the spatula onto the small squared table and keeps his glare.

”Oh, I don’t. It’s why I took away your weapons. Impressive, by the way,” Ben assures, grabbing one of the cups he made and placing it onto the table. He motions for Boba to sit down, making sure to point out the sugar and milk container ahead. Ignoring the suspicious glare thrown at him, Ben turns toward his own cup and then back at the teenager, blowing gently at the tea before taking a short sip.

Boba does nothing of the sort. He leaves the cup where it is and keeps standing, even when Ben decides to simply lean against the place he is at.

”Give them back, Kenobi,” Boba grits out through his teeth, clenching his jaw determinedly.

Ben keeps his face blank while correcting, “Ben Naas.” He watches the way Boba furrows his brows in surprise (whether it is at the correction or the Man do’s used, he does not know) at his words. “I no longer go by that name,” he explains shortly.

The young Fett narrows his eyes at him, head inclining. “Nothing. No one,” he muses, giving him a closer inspection. “That what you are now?”

Before Ben can answer, both of their attention heads off to the side with a little boy wobbling his way forward. Bright blue eyes glances between the two of them, naive and kind to all that is ahead of him. Luke grins unknowingly, making his way toward Boba without hesitation in his steps. Ben lets him knowing Boba does not have any weapon on him, and in belief he would not hurt a two-year old child. Once Luke is in front of him, he giggles.

“Burc’ya?” Luke asks innocently, wide eyes staring up at the older boy. His tiny hands reaches toward the others, a curious look written on his face.

Boba stares down at him with confusion and his very own inspecting eye. He understands what was being said, but a kid being with him was not expecting. And truthfully, that likely ruins his plan of brutally murdering the man before him. He knows what it is like to lose a father in front of them, and if this blond boy saw the former Jedi Master as a father then… well, he cannot do that to a kid. 

“Su’cuy, ad’ika,” Boba clears his throat, offering his arm rather than his hand. Luke tilts his head in confusion. Noticing them expression, Boba does his duty to explain, “It’s a handshake, you see.”

He holds out his hand gently awaiting for Luke’s permission to give it. Luke glances at Ben as if asking for permission (grinning when the older man nods at him softly) to do so. Once he did, Luke placed his hand on Boba’s. The fifteen year old does not smile, but there was a kind expression on his face. At the given hand, Boba corrects his hand’s formation, holding it sideways and with his fingers curved. Then, he does the same with his own and places Luke’s hand on his forearm while he does the same (or at least tries too, but Luke’s hand and arm are smaller).

”Yeah, you got it,” Boba assures quietly.

Luke laughs, eyes twinkling with delight. He grins up at Ben.

”Look, buir!” The blond boy beams happily. Ben shakes his head out of his own thoughts while gazing at the two of them. His eyes crinkle from the side with the genuine smile on his face. While he is worried about the teenager bounty hunter, it was a nice sight to see; his Luke interacting with others and with the young Fett momentarily taking his dislike to Ben out of the way in order to speak with a youngling. He can see how much Mandalorian is in him despite likely only growing up with the culture for ten years.

“Very well, Lu’ika,” Ben praises cheerfully. He obliges the young child as he ushers to lift him up. Luke quickly wraps his arm around the neck and sighs comfortingly. While this occurs, Boba glances away from them and instead observes the area they are in, eyebrows furrowing when realizing their supposed home looks like a shuttle rather than a house or hut. Ben looks at the teenager without much suspicion. “Drink the tea, Boba. It’ll allow you to heal faster,” he recommends.

Instead of allowing him to reply, Ben chugs down his own drink and then leaves it on the side to clean it up later. Despite having a guest to their home, it is no use delaying or changing any of their routine. Thus, he heads for his usual forest-green covered cloak to wrap around himself and Luke and a few credits for their daily supply gathering. 

With someone in their home, the former Jedi Master knows he cannot do his usual radio announcement of what has been occurring. And it is not like there lies much change. The Empire strives toward power with fear against the people whether they are aware of it or not. He has heard of senators disappearing, replaced by others. Fortunately, he knows Senator Organa is doing well. Tired and busy, but well compared to others.

Upon seeing Rose, Ben smiles in a way of greeting. She, however, does not do the same and instead only ruffles Luke’s hair causing him to giggle. At her silence, Ben grabs the needed materials before noticing her hand motioning for him to lean forward and onto the side. Seeing as she has always been kind to him, he does as told with a fake smile plastered on his face.

”You ain’t hear it from me, Ben, but I’ve overheard that some bounty hunters are lookin’ for a clone,” Rose whispers casually, inspecting one of her specialized fruits that make some fabulous juice if made right. She hands it over to him with a knowing look before continuing lowly, “They have information needed, or somethin’. Them hunters are appearing pretty desperate.”

Well, osik.

Rose gives him another look, but this time it is pitiful. “Rumors of you carrying a kid has sprung, Ben. I don’t know the mess you’re getting’ in, but if it is safer for you to leave for your son then…”

She eyes Luke with a clear expression of adore and sadness. Luke’s grin fades from view clearly sensing her own unguarded emotions. Ben knows what Rose is trying to tell him, what she is trying to warn and advice. Through his two years at Lothal, he never actually had to leave the planet, but now that Boba is gaining attention… he cannot just leave the teenager when he is still hurt and being hunted. Maybe it is time to leave Lothal. Lately, more stormtroopers or imperial workers have come to inspect over the Pryce mines and such. It is not safe, but then again, it never was.

”Thank you, Rose,” Ben sighs defeatedly, handing her the credits needed. He noticed then that she had given him extra supplies than what he usually takes. Her lips twist upwards momentarily aiming at the two of them.

”Take care, Ben. And you as well, Luke,” Rose murmurs gently, pressing a light kiss on his forehead. She squeezes Ben’s hand as she grabbed the credits and then backs away to her space. With a final nod, Ben walks away from the stand knowing it likely that it would be the last day to see Rose.

Silently, and internally, Ben cannot help but think, May the Force be with you.

With the news of trouble heading their way, Ben takes a detour toward their usual routine. Fortunately, for him, Luke does not seem to mind much about the change likely sensing his worry growing within the Force. Rather than heading toward the meadows, he heads back to their shuttle knowing it best to leave soon enough. He has not flown the shuttle since their arrival, but technically speaking, it should all be in good condition. And luckily for them, they have enough hyperspace fuel if needed. Hopefully, it will not.

Upon arriving home, Ben momentarily paused recognizing the small warning coming from the Force. Boba is planning something at the moment. He pinches the bridge of his nose with exasperation before deciding to place Luke in his own safe space. Once he was done, his back stiffened at the tension coming from behind. Either way, Ben does his best to radiate a calm wave toward his ad.

”Not in front of him,” Ben grits out through his teeth, forcing a smile at the young child staring at him with puzzlement. He senses Boba’s cold realization and slight backing, allowing him to move out of Luke’s vision. Then, when he knew the boy could no longer see him, Ben quickly turns around and Force pulls on the knife Boba holds.

Boba grunts in surprise, eyes widening at the action before he glares harshly back at him.

Ben stares at him coolly. “You have much to learn,” he retorts smoothly.

”I have nothing to say to you,” Boba sneers stubbornly.

The former Jedi Master shrugs in agreement. “Then say nothing, but if you want to kill me, I recommend not doing it in front of a two-year old. Oh, and you might want to hide your intentions. If you believe I’ve let my guard down around you, then as I said, you have much to learn,” Ben responds back. His eyes wander down toward the teenager’s injury. “Now sit back down or you’ll hurt yourself even further.”

Boba clenches his jaw likely knowing there is nothing more he can do. Not like it matters since Ben has more worries to focus on. He ends up slowly turning on all the engines, returning them back to their first state considering he turned it off for the safety of Luke’s curious and wide-eyed mind.

The teenager narrows his eyes at him. “What are you doing?”

”You’ve managed to create enemies and I will not risk Luke because of some amateur bounty hunters,” Ben remarks smartly, giving him a pointed look. Then he points at the bandage around him. “Plus, you aren’t exactly at your best, now are you? I’m not a Jedi anymore, but if I didn’t want you to suffer three years ago, then I still do not want you to do so.”

Boba stills for a few seconds, eyes gazing past Ben’s face with an old memory. Then, he stares right at him. “I never asked you to try and help me,” he finally says.

Ben gazes away first as he replies, “No, you didn’t.”

And then it became quiet, a reminder to who used to visit Boba’s cell and what he had meant to the both of them.

*

The third time Boba Fett tried to kill him was a complete failure considering the teenager stopped himself midway through. This time the weapon was self-made as it used to be a simple silver fork and ended up as a sharp four-bladed silverware. His hand had been prepare to throw the weapon from across the room in a great aim (Ben ready to dodge the hit) before he simply had stayed out there, frozen and still, and then had given out a defeated sigh. The weapon easily fell out of his hand creating a light thud and for Ben’s attention to turn toward him.

”You’re flying,” defends the teenager, arms crossed angrily.

And while that is true, seeing as they made their escape from Lothal quite easily through pretending to be simple civilians, Ben knows that is not all of it. Instead of calling him out for it, however, he discreetly rolls his eyes and returns his gaze back to the space in front of him. They made it out from Lothal’s atmosphere, barely avoiding being questioned by Imperial workers thanks to the help of one of Bail’s used ship plates to identify as a different, unsuspicious one. He is not heading anywhere specific, but he figures making way to a close planet for extra fuel will be needed.

”What’s the kid’s name?” Boba questions quietly, defeat noticeable in his face as he sat beside Ben. The former Jedi is soon reminded how completely young the teenager is. While considered a mature based on Mandalorian culture, Boba cannot be more than 15 years old. His face is still child-like and yet not with achievements and struggle a teenager his age should not have to go through.

Ben could not help but feel something for the boy. Not pity, he would not like that, but something rather like a father would look down at their son. Not that he considers Boba a son. However, spending time taking care of Luke has provided for Ben to become overly concerned when it came to children. He always loved them, especially the younglings at the Jedi Temple, but taking care of Luke has long since reinstated the urge to protect. It is truthfully slightly embarrassing.

”Luke,” he answers, a smile on his lips. “He’s a great kid.”

Boba glances at him curiously. “Didn’t think Jedi took care of kids. Or had them,” he retorts, though, the earlier anger no longer lies within his words.

”Ah, he is…” Ben goes to deny, but stops himself shortly. His eyebrows scrunches up in surprise before he shakes his head and continues, “He isn’t mine biologically, but I do care for him deeply.”

An awkward silence runs through them which surprises Ben since he didn’t think they’d let it run as such. Of anger, yes, and of hatred, maybe so, but not an awkward silence. He was not particularly fond of those.

”The Jedi Order cared for children deeply. I’d say the exact same as Mandalorian do,” Ben brings up, a familiar sadness growing inside his heart. He missed his family. His own people, those he was friends with and considered his brothers or sisters or anyone. The younglings he would visit at any chance given, enjoying the moments where he taught rather than fight in the war. Surrounded by darkness but still relishing in the love that came from his fellow friends. “People believed us to be child stealers, but the only time we tended to ‘steal’ from their homes was when they were being mistreated. Some cultures do not accept force-sensitives, others simply did not like children. Despite all that, we had to ask permission in order to take the children back with us. While the safer alternative is for them to learn, we also understood the love for children and accepted it. Like Mandalorians, children are the future, but they have choices. Had choices, I mean.”

”Is he… force-sensitive, or whatever you said?” Boba asks after a moment of silence where he took in the words, felt the sadness despite not truly sensing it. He had almost went to speak like how his father had, but it didn’t exactly feel right to do so at a man in grief. Not that he cared much so, but it reminds him of the way he lost his father, and he wonders how much of that the man lost himself. He would think he’d feel successful, but then his memories would betray him. Reminded him of times where that specific Jedi would go with Kote and simply let them be rather than judge. He was likable, despite Boba wishing everything but.

Ben stiffens, hands tightening onto the handles making Boba notice right away.

”I’m not— I won’t—” Boba is quick to say, almost surprised himself. But is he truly? He hates the Jedi and any reminder of it, but a child… it would not feel right. His eyes closed. “He’ll won’t come to harm because of me,” he utters slowly.

”I’ve no reason to trust you,” Ben says instead, briefly eyeing him through his peripheral vision.

The teenager chuckles humorlessly. “And I you, old man. We shouldn’t trust each other, but I won’t harm a child,” Boba tells him calmly. He rubs his eyes, clear exhaustion written on his face along the way he runs his hand through his injury. Ben frowns a moment before making a decision unrelated to the words said out loud by the boy.

”There’s a stim next to Luke’s bed. He’ll be waking up soon… if you’d like, you can read him one of the books he has. He likes doing that after his nap, but I’ll be going a few rounds to avoid the men looking for you and find a fueling station,” Ben mentions carefully, content with what is being said since the Force seems to agree. Clearly, it doesn’t feel any hostile intentions from the young Fett and honesty seems to lie within the words he said about not harming a child. He can handle being the one in danger, but not Luke. Never him.

Boba frowns, unsatisfied. “Why are you helping me? I’m not good. I don’t even like you.”

”If the universe only offered help to people that were liked, then no one existing would receive anything,” the former Jedi Master sighs, tone wistful and mysteriously said. “Beings are not defined by being absolute. No one is ever truly good.”

Just as Boba stands up, he pauses and then adds, “But then no one is truly evil.”

And with all the philosophy learnt, Obi-Wan Kenobi was caught off guard by a fifteen year old because while he usually would agreed, what did that say about his forbidden cruel thoughts to the former Chancellor of the no-longer existing Republic.

A light glint of amusement circles around his eyes after he notices the teenager do exactly as he suggested, voice quietly counting a story to the young blond. That Boba is certainly interesting.

When the ship landed in a fueling station, Obi-Wan’s first action was to check on Luke and Boba. The two of them were sleeping; Luke holding on tightly onto his Republic spaceship toy while the other was at the side of the bed, hair damp with sweat and hand resting against his injury. A frown takes over his face clearly noticing the pain radiating off the young teenager. He has not yet healed which isn’t a surprise, but Ben does not like how the bandage hasn’t helped, or even the stim.

He scratched his eyebrow in thought before scowling. Ben moves toward Luke’s bed and opens up one of the cupboards, eyes closing in cold realization as he noticed the healing stim still occupied there. Force, he offers the young Fett an alternative to feel better so he could leave earlier than expected, but he did not even touch it. Ben debated simply sticking the stim against his neck, but that felt too much like taking advantage of a situation that is dire, and so he chose to gently wake up the man.

Boba stirs for five whole seconds before remembering where he is at, eyes opening wide at an instant. He quickly backs away from Ben’s touch and narrows his eyes at him suspiciously.

Obi-Wan raises his hands in defeat. “It’s alright,” he soothes gently. “You’re not in direct danger, but I’m going to need you to take this for me.”

His hand lifts up the stim so it could be clearly visible. Boba’s faces turns from confusion to even further suspicion.

”That’s the only one left,” he grits out.

Ben feels himself freeze upon hearing those words. Out of all that he could say, he was not expecting that to be said. It is a considerably nice move, but something Obi-Wan cannot tolerate.

”Yes, and I’m giving it to you,” Obi-Wan agrees, carefully placing the stim in between the two of them. “You need it more than Luke or I do. I’ll find some more, Boba. Don’t worry about it.”

Boba clenches his jaw. “Stop it,” he orders.

”Stop what?” The former Jedi Master questions in surprise.

”That! I don’t know what you’re planning and it’s sick. You’re trying to twist my mind, I know you are. I don’t trust you. I don’t like you. Stop, just stop,” Boba declares angrily, voice altering in tone, but only enough to cause Luke to stir from one side to the other. His face twists, though, so Ben would not be surprised if he can sense the emotions radiating from the teenager.

Ben only lowers his head knowing there is a chance he might regret the confirmation he will be giving in the next few sentences:

”You’ve watched me this whole time you’ve been here. Tell me, what are my weaknesses?” Obi-Wan brings up almost casually, backing away from his own space to be opposite of Boba’s side. He sits crossed leg, merely watching as the teenager glares at him.

”Why?” Boba, ever the suspicious one, asks again.

”Because you aren’t someone I can trick,” Ben answers immediately. He brings his hand in front of his lap, tilting his head for the side. “I can stop you from killing me, but I cannot stop you from observing. You know exactly how to get to me if you’re truly desperate, but I believe we can help each other.”

“My father would have killed you and taken the child. Why can’t I do the same?” Boba mentions, rubbing his face harshly.

Obi-Wan sighs, “You aren’t him. There are similarities, I’m sure, but overall… you’re your own person. You can choose any path and it will be due to your choices.”

Boba gulps harshly against his throat, eyes gazing away out in the open as he brings himself closer. His face twists into a small wince, but he keeps himself in the same position.

”I…” he tries to say, and Ben knows he will not be able to finish so he does it for him, “You miss him.”

Slowly, and carefully, Obi-Wan motions for Boba to sit up right as he makes a decision to continue helping him. He dispatches the used bandage and makes sure the injury is clean before grabbing another one to wrap around him. Boba watches him silently, eyes guarded and everything, but quiet.

”Mandalorians have this saying, ‘Nu kyr’adyc, shi taab’echaaj’la’ when referring to the death of a loved one,” Obi-Wan murmurs gently, handing Boba the stim by hand so he could put it on. This time, Boba takes it and holds it tightly as if debating with himself. Noticing the slight confusion on the boy’s face (making the former Jedi remember that he lost his father quite young enough for the man to not have taught him much about Mandalorian culture), Ben elaborates, “It means that your father isn’t gone, but merely marching away. He’s onto another part of life that one day— not soon yet— you will join.”

”He tried to kill you, my father,” Boba reminds.

Ben smiles. “So he did. And so did you. None of you really succeeded, did you?”

”He could’ve,” Boba defends his father, ever the loyal son.

”Oh, I’m sure,” Obi-Wan nods. “I’ve heard of what he had done when I met him, but he was a curious man.”

Boba scrunches his nose. “Do not compliment my dad,” he retorts, slightly sounding grossed out as if the words had double meaning.

The former Jedi lets out an amused laugh. He kept his smile as he notices the teenager look down at the ground, a small and barely noticeable lips being twisted upwards from one side. The momentarily happiness fades away as Obi-Wan thinks of something else. Something he does not want to do despite it being two years since everything change. Not even Qui-Gon’s continuous chatter has helped.

”Have you ever grieved properly?” He questions quietly.

Boba snaps his head up toward him, smile gone from his lips with his own frown now plastered.

”One that doesn’t include revenge, I mean,” Obi-Wan corrects. “Years ago, before the war and further on, I had a master. Someone that was like a father to me in the Jedi sense. He trained me since I was 13 years old and until my mid-twenties. Unfortunately, he was killed in front of me by a dark sider, a Sith apprentice, as we called it.”

A similar look that crossed Boba’s face does the same to Obi-Wan’s.

”I couldn’t do anything as I watched him fall before me, and then I fought him. I used my anger, I used my hate, and I destroyed him as revenge, but my Master still died and nothing was fixed,” Obi-Wan continues, mouth drying in remembrance. He wears a bitter smile as he glances at Boba. “And then during the Clone Wars, I found out I created a different type of monster. One filled with his own hatred, all toward me because I could not kill him properly and only led him to a life of suffering.”

Once upon a time, he had his own fair of hatred for Darth Maul. One that almost caused him to fall when Satine was killed. He remembered that clearly and he never spoke a word of it. Maybe he should have. Force, he should have told Anakin. Make him understand how much he had felt the urge during his weakest point, but had been reminded that his dearest Satine would have never wanted him to become someone like Maul. Her love almost caused him to fall, but it also saved him. And he wondered, why couldn’t Padmé’s love for Anakin had been enough?

”I’ve lost many people I loved these past years, but I think it’s time to properly grieve them,” Ben chuckles lightly. His eyes wander down toward Luke who only ever turns to another side and tugs onto Ben’s arm, still sleeping. “Heed these words, Boba: Ni su’cuyi, gar kyr’adyc, ni partayli, gar darasuum.”

Boba furrows his brows, repeating the words in his own whisper. Then, he glances up. “I’m still alive, but you are dead. I remember you, so you are forever…?”

”Close, yes. The last word is eternal, but it means the same,” Ben agrees.

”How do you— where did you learn Mando’a?” The teenager asks abruptly.

Obi-Wan shrugs, memories of the old and dead passing by. “I protected Duchess Satine a long time ago and during our time together, I was curious about the language. Learned some at Mandalore, became fluent on my own.”

And not to say, the clones had reminded him of his own fluency as the war emerged.

Boba takes in a conflicting look before embarrassingly asking, “I want to learn more.”

Ben tilts his head to the side. “I had believed you wanted to leave here as quick as possible,” he voices out confusingly.

”I can,” Boba says, unsurely.

And then Obi-Wan understood what stops the teenager from doing so. His eyes soften just the slightest, and he offers the boy a smile.

”I can teach you if you stay, but you have to promise not to kill me anytime soon. While I trust you will not harm Luke, I find it best to not leave such huge responsibilities to a fifteen year old,” Ben remarks dryly and yet genuinely.

Boba stares at him wide-eyed and nods, confirming, “Haat, Ijaa, Haa’it.”

”Good man,” Obi-Wan praises, patting his back. “Now, put that stim and rest once more. I’ll be grabbing a few supplies and fuel to leave elsewhere. This place doesn’t exactly seem tidy.”

Just as he stands to leave, Boba’s hand latches on to his arm and he tightens his hold as if remembering something.

”Wait,” he calls out demandingly. “There’s something I need to— it’s about those people after me.”

Obi-Wan straightens his back, curiosity fluttering wide once more as he recalls one of the last few things Rose had told him. “Yes?”

”I have information they want and I wouldn’t give it to them,” Boba informs. He places his lips onto a thin line. “It’s why they’re after me. I played them to get a ride, but they found out I was not giving it to them… I was gonna keep the credits for myself, but I suppose you would not appreciate if I were to continue following the bounty.”

The former Jedi narrows his eyes suspiciously. “And what is the bounty?”

At the least, the young bounty hunter manages to appear slightly sheepish as he answers, “A Jedi in training, I believe.”

And Obi-Wan Kenobi stopped working altogether at the sudden reveal.

CC-2224 reports directly toward Darth Vader, following orders without hesitation as he had seen some stormtroopers make. It always has been that way since the rise of the Empire. Vader seemed to find him fascinating, kept more as some sort of trophy for him to keep and order rather than anyone else. It had been odd at first, but he never questioned it and he never will.

(But the person he used to be does; who is Darth Vader? Why is he doing this? Why did I kill him?)

Behind him follows along four bounty hunters whose feet are practically shivering with fear despite likely having done nothing to ensure Vader’s anger. Though, sometimes the mechanical man does seem to burst in rage a few times. Usually, CC-2224 was not there to see it or was the direct hit. Vader both is fascinated and disgusted by him.

”These are the hunters that were after a Jedi, Lord Vader,” CC-2224 informs, recalling back to their status being reported from Lothal.

Lord Vader stalks around the men, mechanical breathing likely terrifying them even further and one stops breathing just as he stops in front of him. Vader turns completely toward him, demanding, “And where is the Jedi?”

”W-we couldn’t f-find them, Sir— Lord Vader,” one of the men stutter out, voice coming out as a squeak than anything else.

Vader towers over all of them, and all CC-2224 does is stand firmly as a loyal soldier. Watching, observing.

”But—” another of the men speak, same tone as the other and filled with fear. “But there was Fett. He wanted the job all to himself and he has the coordinates.”

Fett.

CC-2224 does not recognize that name as anymore except a clone wanting to be considered normal. A clone. Fett. His mind goes blank. He knows the name. But he does not. CC-2224 is stuck. Fett.

(But Cody recognizes the name as clearly as his own. Except Cody is gone. Who is Cody?)

Vader stops in his tracks. “Fett? You refer to a child outrunning the four of you?”

”H-he caught us off-guard,” the man replies with a whimper.

”Then at least I know he will not fail the Empire,” Vader taunts, placing his hand onto the side of his belt where a cylinder shaped weapon rests. The words said by the masked man sounds familiar for a moment, as if a memory trying to resurface and he knows why this Fett will not fail (‘he tried to kill TRAITOR’) and then it vanishes quickly.

A weapon CC-2224 knows those traitors wear. They would capture them and burn those weapons to pure dust. Discarding them just like the traitors themselves if they do not choose to serve the Empire.

(And briefly, he remembers holding one in his hand; it didn’t belong to him, but it felt right. I love you, I love you, I loved you. Traitor.)

“Get them out of my sight, CC-2224,” Vader demands, snapping his hand toward the clone’s way. CC-2224 salutes in return and roughly takes the hunters out of the room, emotionlessly and without judgement as he allowed for Governor Tarkin to walk inside the area.

The clone signals for another three stormtroopers and then orders them to take them out of there, recognizing them to not be prisoners but servers of the Empire. Then, he returns back inside with his hands behind his back, barely hearing the conversation that has taken place.

”— the rest of them could die or join us. All I want is Kenobi to be found dead and given to me,” Lord Vader fumes, staring out into the open with a glare hidden behind the mask of his. 

“Yes, Lord Vader,” Governor Tarkin agrees, standing firmly onto the side with a dark look. His eyes swept across the room as if inspecting the rest of the stormtroopers and clone troopers with interest. Though, there lies obvious distaste for all of them. CC-2224 watches silently while the man chins up and briefly glances to Lord Vader. “I was never fond of Kenobi myself. He was always incredibly irritating and m—”

CC-2224 does not move an inch, but a frown urges to appear on his lips when he spots the governor trying to grasp his neck as if he has something tied back. He takes a careful look at the masked covered man and barely stops himself from stiffening when noticing the hand held out with a pinch. Lord Vader seems to have gotten angry in order to attack a close member of the Emperor’s men.

”Do not speak of him,” Darth Vader voices, in the machine-like and yet growling tone.

Governor Tarkin continues to struggle, grasping his throat with his face reddening by the moment. Just when it appears that he will pass out, Vader lets go and the man leans against the table, breaths harsh and heavy.

CC-2224 is familiar with that more than one would expect. It happens when the other is angered by something. Usually the Jedi. Usually this specific traitor. Kenobi. Traitor. Kenobi. Traitor. Kenobi. Traitor.

Kenobi. TRATIOR.

(You killed him. He will die. You betrayed him. Traitor. I loved him. Good soldiers follow orders).

”Trooper,” Vader calls for CC-2224’s attention, “Come with me. We are going to train.”

”Yes, my lord,” the clone soldier agrees. Despite knowing what happens when Vader trains while angry. He follows orders. ‘24 is a good soldier.

(And inside, he cries out a distinguished ‘No!’ banging the walls inside, empty. Not alive. Gone).