Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Y/n! Y/n! Wait!” Anakin huffed as he ran through the streets of the lower levels of Coruscant. Blinking the tears away that mixed with droplets of water, you pushed past the wet bodies that stopped to watch your every move.

Tasting blood in your mouth from biting your lips so hard, you licked it away while your eyes darted to every possible escape and secluded area. Sirens rang in your ear and bright beams of white flashed on your body, alerting every possible individual that you were in trouble. You were done.

You couldn’t even breathe. It was like someone had strangled your throat and all your insides were closing in. It made it even harder to run away. But you were there, you could do it.

Shoving past a green Rodian, you ran into an alleyway that secluded you from the crowd and noises. All you needed now was an exit considering this was a dead end. You whipped your head up, beams of light radiated through the sky by ships that were looking for you.

“Shit…Shit…Shit.” You cursed, your hair flying everywhere as you tried to look for an exit.

You couldn’t go above but you could go below.

Removing the cover plate from the floor, you peered down below to the sewage water that illustrated the floors. It was big enough for you to fall through but it was just so damn deep.

“Stop running, Y/n!” You whipped your head around to see Anakin at the entry of the alleyway. His hands were held high defenceless and his eyes doleful, afflicted with the current dilemma.

“I won’t hurt you. We can talk this out…” He said, taking small and slow steps towards you, afraid you might dart off again.Your expression softened, wanting nothing more than to fall into his arms and forget what’s happening. He wanted you to trust him. He needed you to trust him. And you almost did. That was until masses of clone troopers fell behind him, their weapons aimed directly towards you.

Your face fell for a brief second before you hardened it, your eyebrows furrowed and your lips pressed together. Without a second thought, you jumped through the man made hole, the water splashing underneath you.

You inhaled deeply as you tried to regain your balance, the sewage liquid reaching just underneath your ankles. Taking advantage of the few seconds you had against them, you sprinted ahead already hearing Anakin and the rest of the soldiers make their way down.

Making your way through the tunnel with the soldiers right on your tail, you felt yourself feeling dizzy with the constant twists and turns you made. Their flashlights hitting your back only aided them but it helped you too. You reached an intersection which made it easy for you to lose the troopers. Turning your body around, you pushed both your palms you, the force causing the bodies to fall to the ground. Using the split second you had, you ran to the right. Your body moving faster than your feet, after a couple more turns and silence, you found yourself an exit. The tunnel abruptly stopping to Coruscant’s Hole where you could see the multiple levels in all it’s depth. You ran near the edge, your hands on your knees as you tried to regain your breath, your heart practically pounding against your chest.

“Y/n?” Anakin called out, his feet sliding on the water as he tried to slow down. Whipping your head back, you watched his figure cautiously making its way towards you.

“We can talk this out. Just me and you.” He held his hands up just like he did not long ago.

“So you brought the whole battalion to track me down, huh?” You yelled, pointing to your chest as you felt aggressive tears run down your cheeks.

Anakin gritted his teeth as he whole body tensed, “Listen, you’re not exactly making it look good for yourself by running away. The whole of Coruscant is trying to track you down!” He snarled.

“They’re calling me a traitor! But I guess you wouldn’t understand what it feels like would you?” Your voice cracked, making you sound weaker than you’d like to be perceived as.

Anakin’s heart sank hearing your vulnerable voice, “I would NEVER let anyone hurt you, Y/n. Never. You need to trust me.” He said as he slowly made his way towards you.

“I-I” You stammered, your eyes darting everywhere, “I don’t even know who to trust!” You locked gazes with Anakin and you definitely didn’t miss the flash of hurt that caressed his face.

“Me, Y/n. Me.” He whispered, his body now mere inches away from yours. He cautiously slid his right hand into your shaking one, his thumb rubbing your knuckles. You didn’t want this. This close intimacy. It would only make things harder for you. Closing your eyes, you tried to recenter yourself.

“We’ll go back to the council together and you can make your case.”

You abruptly pushed him away from you, shaking your head as your eyes pierced his, “No. No!” You waved your hands around, “I’m not taking the fall for something I didn’t do!”

“I’m ordering you to stop running and come with me.” He firmly stated, everything inside of him aching as he watched you conflicted with your emotions and desires.

“Ordering me?” You scoffed, taking a few steps back away from him. “Now you’re ordering me? I am not your padawan, Anakin!”

A silence fell among you both as you heard the nearby soldiers making their way towards you. Anakin didn’t look away from your gaze and neither did you, it was almost as if there was a conversation between your eyes and his but nothing being said.

“If you trusted that I was innocent, Anakin, you’d be here on your own account. Not by the councils.” You whispered, turning your back against him as you peered at the multiple ships flying in the hole.

“Y/n…”

You inhaled before leaping out of the tunnel, the wind hitting against you as fell multiple levels below, the force cushioning your landing onto the ship.

Anakin watched as his lover left him. He wasn’t sure if he could even consider calling you that. But waves of emotions hit him second by second. He was hurt mostly. Hurt that someone would dare accuse his lover of treachery. Hurt that you couldn’t trust him enough. Hurt that you left him.

Chapter Text

Anakin sat on the edge of the cobblestone fountain with Obi-wan besides him, his head down as he recounted the events with you.

They both sat in the Room of a Thousand Fountains, a place Anakin had taken refuge in since your disappearance yesterday. He knew how much you adored this room and all of its beauty. The trickling of the fountains bouncing off all the walls and the roar of the waterfall couldn’t compare to you. Your hair always rested perfectly on your shoulders and your eyes were shut as you were deep in meditation. He always found you the most beautiful when you were meditating. He wanted to know what you were thinking of. What had conflicted your heart to meditate.

“I have known Y/n long enough to know she wouldn’t do anything irrational.” Obi-wan’s voice broke his line of thought.

Anakin shook his head, “You should’ve seen her, Obi-wan. She was frantic. She couldn’t even,” he sighed, “...She couldn’t even trust me.” Anakin's voice cracked.

Obi-wan looked ahead, “Have trust in the force, Anakin. She loves you.”

Anakin remained silent, his eyebrows furrowed. What could he have done to make you stay? Did you not love him? No. He knew you did. Then what?

Maybe it wasn't him.

It was the way the whole galaxy pulled at your sleeves. Making you fight for a world that didn't belong to you. Or was it the way he pulled you in? Did he need you too much? Love you too loudly? Was it the way he fought not just for peace, but for you? To save you from the orders a Jedi has? A life without freedom.

“It was the council that did this.” Anakin suddenly said, his fists curling at his sides. Obi-wan furrowed his eyebrows and looked over at Anakin in confusion. “They scared her off. If they had just listened to her none of this would’ve happened!”

“Anakin, thinking like that will only lead you to the Dark Side. Her trial is still ongoing, only then can we make final decisions.” Obi-wan attempted to reconcile the boy. “I admit, it was a poor execution of the council but these times are uncertain. All things will come to light”

Anakin pursed his lips attempting to make sense of his former master's words but all he wanted was you beside him. “I hope you’re right, Obi-wan.” Anakin stood up from the fountain with Obi-wan following.

“Aren’t I always?” Obi-wan attempted to make a joke out of the poor situation. Anakin forced a laugh out, hoping it would come out sincere, but unfortunately for him, Obi-wan is easily able to read Anakin.

Obi-wan took the chance to fully observe Anakin while he remained silent. Anakin had a troubled expression, his arms were crossed as if it was a protective barrier. He had known about their secret relationship for a while now and that the Clone Wars had began to take a toll on both of them. This was different though. It was solely based on trust, but that’s not to say Anakin and you didn’t trust each other, it was the pressures of the Council and the war that caused the skepticism. Obi-wan knows how much Anakin loves you, with you gone though… He had always struggled with abandonment. You leaving without even trying to save yourself was a blow to his heart because you didn’t just abandon the Jedi Order, but you left him too.

“I think it’s best you go to bed, Anakin. We will figure out a way to prove her innocent.” Obi-wan said in a soft spoken voice.

Anakin inhaled deeply, trying to rid of the lump in his throat, “Alright. May the force be with you.”

“May the force be with you, Anakin.”

Anakin left the room with his troubles still following him. With every step he took to his chamber didn’t ease the heaviness in his heart. Anakin’s nails began to dig in his skin, his knuckles turning white. Once he entered his chamber, he would have to come to the reality that he doesn’t know where you are, if you’re safe or not. He slouched when the door opened, his quarters dark and down casted.

He began to throw his robe off as he walked into his room, too careless to think about where it ended up, and groaned as he fell onto his bed. He closed his eyes and ran his fingers through his hair attempting to soothe him in the way you always did.

Y/n.

Y/n.

Y/n.

He couldn’t sleep. He thrashed in his bed and turned from side to side. He wanted you by his side like you always were. You were always there next to him when he had a nightmare that was usually about his mother. Part of him didn’t want to sleep because if he closed his eyes it would be you instead of his mother dying. He wanted you here. He regretted every action he made up till now, wishing that he had put more effort into keeping you here.

Anakin swallowed as he threw his legs off the bed and eyed his palms. Getting up from his bed, he made the decision he would go to your chambers, at least he thought he would sleep better. Already wearing clothes, he grabbed the robe he threw on the ground and placed it around his shoulders. Walking out of his quarters as quietly as possible, he put the hoodie of the robe on his head wanting to blend in with the darkness of the Jedi halls. He didn’t even have to think about where to go, he had entered your chambers during the late of the night so often that it almost felt nostalgic.

As he reached your door he could feel something different. A disruption in the force. His eyebrows furrowed as his fingers gently caressed the lightsaber that rested on his side, his body on high alert as he sensed something different inside your chambers. Cautiously entering, the weight on his shoulders only increased as he knew someone was in here. A small part of him hoped that it would be you but he could recognise your force signature from a mile away.

Objects were scattered throughout the floor, clothes were thrown onto your bed and the curtains wide open to reveal the slowly appearing sunrise. He even spotted a dress he had bought you awhile ago laying on your desk. A gift for you on your birthday that he had purchased secretly with the help of Ahsoka and Padme. A Jedi had few possessions but Anakin had tried so hard for so long to give you a devotion gift, at the very least on your special day. He imagined you tear-faced and confused as you attempted to sort out your essentials to bring with you, even worse that during it you most likely thought that he didn’t care at all. But he did. He cared the most.

A sudden creak was heard from your wardrobe. Anakin’s head whipped to the sound, his eyes widening and his heart racing.

Gritting his teeth, he slowly made his way further in.

Anakin knew better than to believe it was you so he pulled out his lightsaber, the blue plasma blade emitting the room with its light.

Anakin took cautious steps towards the closet, his palm hovering off the door. With a simple flick of his wrist the closet door flew open.

Barriss Offee.

Chapter Text

“Barriss.” Anakin snarled.

Confusion contoured on Barriss’ face as she was surprised that Anakin had found her, in a flash of a second, she squinted her eyes in aggression and threw out her fists, the force pushing Anakin back from the closet. Anakin’s feet skidded on the flooring of your chambers as he wielded his saber.

Barriss replicated his action and twirled both of her newly founded sabers, a red light emitting from each hand. Barriss’ launched herself towards Anakin as both her sabers clashed with his in a crackling frenzy.

Their sabers press against each other in a battle of strength, giving Anakin a higher advantage due to his body mass. Anakin’s eyes widened as he recognised the lightsabers she equipped, “Those are Ventress’!”

“I think they suit me,” Barriss sneered.

Barriss twisted both her sabers to escape from the collision of his saber and repeatedly collided both her sabers against his in multiple thrashes.
Anakin kicked his foot out to Barriss’ stomach causing her to be thrown against your bed frame. Barriss gritted her teeth and took the opportunity to run out of your chambers.

Anakin followed close behind without regard that they were currently battling in the Jedi chambers. He lunged at her but Barriss whipped her body around in a split second, ready to fight with him. Barriss aimed for Anakins’s neck but he swiftly moved to the side and countered her attack by throwing his body atop of hers, the heat of the sabers near Barriss’ face causing her to groan.

“You’re the one who framed, Y/n!” Anakin growled, forcing his saber onto her but not enough to hurt her excessively.

“People like her are the reason why this war started!” Barriss exclaimed, kicking her legs against Anakin’s body and causing him to flip off of her. She hastily got on her feet and struck her saber against him but missed and instead created a streak on the floor.

Anakin threw his palm out to Barriss as her body began to slowly levitate from the floor. He began to slowly close his palms, with every move of his fingers caused Barriss to struggle against the chokehold he held against her. She tried to wiggle herself out of the hold and eventually lost grip of both her sabers. The sabers fell to the ground with a clatter as Barriss made futile attempts to save herself by clawing at her neck.

Had Anakin not been reminded of Obi-wan’s words at the Room of a Thousand Fountains, he knew he would not have held back as much as he is now. She was the reason why his lover had escaped in fear and why people she had grown to love grew a distaste for her.

Anakin released his grip and Barriss gasped for air, her fingers massaging her neck as she closed her eyes, too weak to fight or escape from Anakin’s approaching figure.
----
“So she was innocent after all,” Obi-wan muttered to no one in particular as he rubbed his beard, Anakin nodded grimly in response.

Barriss remained in silence as she sat in her cell, her gaze locked onto her bounded hands. Anakin remained unsure on why Barriss would deliberately target Y/n, he knew that she was close friends with Ahsoka but with Ahsoka gone she might’ve gone for the second best option.

“What was she doing in her closet late at night anyways?” Obi-wan looked over to Anakin, his brows furrowing.

Anakin crossed his arms and looked down, a stern look on his face. “Finishing up her plan I assume.” Barriss shifted uncomfortably under her seat as they openly talked about her, eyes darting between Anakin and Obi-wan.

“Hmm..” Obi-wan hummed. “It’s too early to tell, we should wait for the court to open. Get some rest.” Obi-wan worried for his former padawan.

Anakin hastily shook his head, “I can’t. Not when we are this close.” Anakin began to toy with the hem of his cloak, stifling his yawn.

“Did you get any sleep last night?”

“No.”

Obi-wan didn’t know how to respond to that. He knows that he should nag him for the lack of sleep but it seems to be the least of Anakin’s worries right now. They both sat in the bench of the Republic Military Base, awaiting for the trials to begin. Obi-wan insisted many times that they would leave the base for other matters but Anakin protested, afraid that Barriss would pull a trick and escape.

He would rather sit and wait then feel as if he had failed you again.

“Do you think she’ll come back?” Anakin asked, startling Obi-wan.

Obi-wan pursed his lips together, “Truefully, I…I don’t know.” It pained Obi-wan to say this as much as it pained Anakin to hear it, but deep down they were both grateful there was no sugarcoating. In the end you were both Obi-wan and Anakin’s best friend.
Anakin and Obi-wan both remained silent for the next few minutes. Anakin deep in thought while Obi-wan meditated.

“What are you both still doing here?” A voice startled them. Their heads shot up as a clone shock soldier watched them both intently.

“What do you mean?” Anakin asked, his brows furrowing.

“The trial had already begun. Didn’t the Chancellor tell you?”
Obi-wan’s mouth fell agape and Anakin’s eyes widened clearly not expecting the news.

“Uh-No. Then we must-” He looked over at Anakin in confusion,” -be making our way there now.” Anakin nodded in response, his gaze locked with Barriss’ who had a
nervous expression written on her face.

Anakin was determined to save you, if he didn’t have you then he wouldn’t know what to do with himself anymore.
—
Chancellor Palpatine sat high above in the court as many watched him eagerly to know if their beloved Jedi truly did betray him. He carefully took the datapad from the guard beside him, nodding as he read the results from the court. You could almost feel the anticipation that bounced off of everyone's seats.

“Due to the current circumstances and the absence of Y/n L/n,” his voice boomed. “By an overwhelming count, it can be determined that L/n-”

“Chancellor!” Anakin cuts him off, afraid that if he finishes his sentence the decision will be set in stone. All eyes diverted towards Anakin and the masses of guards behind him who held a shamed Barriss.

“I hope you have a reason for bursting into our proceedings, Master Skywalker.” The Chancellor’s voice echoed throughout the walls of the court, a displeased expression on his face.

“I’m here with evidence and a confession from the person responsible for all of the crimes Y/n has been accused of.” Anakin said confidently, his chin up and his voice loud.

“Barriss Offee!”

 

Gasps were heard throughout the court due to the unexpected turn of events. Chancellor Palpatine pressed his lips together as Anakin revealed Barriss who stepped forward.

“Member of the Jedi Order, and traitor.” Barriss averted her gaze to the floor as she felt piercing stares hit her. Members of the court looked at each other in discomfort and shock.

“Tell them the truth,” Anakin ordered her, pointing further down the stage.
Barriss inhaled before taking steps forward, “I did it. I’ve come to realise what many people in the republic have come to realise, that the Jedi are the ones responsible for this war!”

“We have become villains in this conflict, we should be the ones on trial! All of us!” Barriss exclaimed almost as if she wasn’t in a room full of Jedi who disapproved of her perspective.

“The Jedi have become an army of the dark side, fallen from the light we once held so dear. This Republic is failing! It’s only a matter of time Jedi like Y/n who will grow stronger be ripped off from their power, to save the future of the Republic.”

Anakin gritted his teeth as he heard what Barriss had said about you, almost as if he was defending you, he pulled Barriss back from talking. The Court remained in silence as they took in her words, some were appalled while others tried to stifle their nods in agreement.

“Take her away.” The Chancellor declared, drawing in his eyebrows in a sullen manner.

Barriss’ face fell, her hopes that the Court would side with her crushed as she received hard stares. The guards drew out their yellow sabers and began to walk her out.

Anakin didn’t smile. He wanted to but he couldn’t. There was no point in all of this if you weren’t going to come back, you didn’t even know the trial had ended and that Barriss was the one that framed you. Instead, Anakin looked down at his feet, a solemn expression on his face.
—
The Council had gathered in the High Council Chamber to decide their next move. You weren’t here for them to apologise to you and they also couldn’t contact you, proving it difficult to bring you back to the Jedi Order.

“Back to The Order, she may come,” Master Yoda stated, knowing that regardless of where you were, you were always welcome back.

“Well, how would we find her?” Anakin asked the question that was lingering at the back of his mind. “We could hold a rescue mission to find her-”

“L/n doesn’t need saving. She is perfectly capable of returning on her own.” Mace Windu interrupted.

Anakin held back his glare towards Windu, he knew that that wasn’t enough. You were missing and he needed to find you. Anakin had left the room after that, he didn’t need the Council’s approval to know that you were a valuable Jedi and you were gone. He wouldn’t rest until he finds you.
–--
You huddled up in an alleyway on Coruscant level 1313; the infamous underworld. Your hood was over your head as you tapped your foot anxiously against the wet concrete floor.

Obi-wan contacted you through your commlink, pleading that you could quietly meet up with him. You would only do it on the basis that no one would find out - not even Anakin.

Nibbling on your lips, you looked around your surroundings. The sound of pouring rain flushing away the chatter of people who walked past.

“Y/n?” You whipped your head above and immediately gripped your lightsaber that rested on your hip belt. Obi-wan was there on top of an overhanging balcony, the metal railings rusted and forgotten.

You sighed exasperatedly and watched as he hopped off to land in front of you, the force allowing him to fall gracefully and without injury.

You didn’t know whether or not to say anything, feeling suddenly awkward and self conscious as you stared at your friend.

“Are you okay?” Obi-wan asked, his own hood darkening his face but still light enough to see the concern written across it.

Half scoffing and half laughing you let out an unconvincing ‘yeah’.

“Don’t leave the order, Y/n. Anakin…He needs you.”

“What good has the order given us, Obi-wan?” Crossing your arms, you diverted your eyes away from and to the graffiti on the walls.
Obi-wan took a second to observe your face, the hurt that was so blatantly there.

“You are a good Jedi. Master Yoda has already made the decision to have you back. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.” Obi-wan’s words were measured, a softness to his voice but still gently insistent.

Sighing, you turned back to him, “I can’t, Obi-wan… I-I almost feel betrayed. Whoever did this to me proved their point. The Jedi don’t care. They will turn their backs instantly even if it means going against someone they trust.”

It was at this moment Obi-wan realised you’re still unaware that it was Barriss’ doing. And he planned to keep it that way for now. You didn’t need to feel worse or confused anymore.

“Where will you go?”

“Anywhere! I’m sure I can ask someone to smuggle me a ship and get me outside. I don’t want to be on the transportation records.”

Obi-wan nodded ever so slightly. “You’re a smart girl, Y/n. Whatever you are planning on doing, be careful. And don’t let your emotions get in the way of logic.”

“I know, Obi…” You called him by his nickname. Probably not for a while.

Suddenly, Obi-wan pulled you into his arms, both your robes wet and rubbed into each other. Your eyes widened not expecting him to do that. In all the years you have known Obi-wan he had not shown affection to you like this, he would rather say a composed and gentle goodbye.

“Be careful, Y/n. Keep your commlink with you. You know how to fight and don’t trust everyone. Not everyone is as kind as they make themselves out to be.”

Wrapping your arms around him, you nodded against his chest. “Okay…Take care of Anakin please.” You pulled away from him. “Don’t let him beat himself up about this.”

Obi-wan nodded before inhaling deeply. "He loves you, Y/n."

You felt your heart burn in your chest, the feeling making its way up to your throat. "I love him too..."

“Good luck. May the force be with you.”

Suddenly teary eyed, you fought yourself to not cry in front of Obi-wan. This was your decision to make. No one forced you to make it.

“Thank you. May the force be with you.”

Chapter Text

You threw the wrist comlink attached to your arm on the sand covered floor, the constant beeping began to irritate you as you had other matters to focus on.

Using your mechanics, you had removed the gps chip inside of the comlink back at Coruscant but kept the commlink itself – mainly to have some sort of contact with Anakin. Regardless, the sooner you got rid of it, the sooner you could move on.

Looking down at the device, flickers of red kept emitting from it alerting you that you had received a new message. It took everything inside of you to not open and listen to it. It was from Anakin. Of course it would be from Anakin. He had stayed up nights and days talking to his comlink as if his life depended on it. He would talk about how much he missed you, how he would find you and that he loves you. It had only been a few days since he had last seen you but it had proven to be the worst days of Anakin’s life.

You never responded to any of his messages, instead you would lay inside of your now wrecked ship you stole from a poor person back in Coruscant and listen to his voice as he talked to you, but he didn’t know you were listening.

At least he hoped you were.

The device had no status ability to tell you if someone was listening or not, a common flaw that irritated the Jedis. And that’s what Anakin had to live with. He would continue to send you voice messages until you would respond to them.

Your foot hovered over the device ready to smash it, but you just couldn’t.

“Errgh!” You screamed to yourself in frustration, snatching the comlink from the ground and throwing it next to your destroyed ship from your failed landing.

You inhaled deeply, rubbing your face with both hands in anger. Why couldn’t you just get rid of the damn thing?

“Woah there, lady.” You whipped your head around to see a man sitting on a speeder bike, his eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

You narrowed your eyes at him and glared at him, “I don’t have time for people like you.” You barked as you walked towards your comlink, covering your mouth as the dark smoke from the wreckage clouded the device.

“No need to be nasty, you just looked like you needed help.” He joked, his golden locks flying back as the wind hit him, his red goggles sitting at the top of his forehead. He wore a loose collared shirt with the top buttons unbuttoned, revealing his tan skin underneath and baggy tar pants.

“Piss off,” you sneered, grabbing the comlink and attaching it to your left arm, refusing to make eye contact with the man.

 

“Is that any way for a Jedi to be speaking?” He eyed your lightsaber that rested on the side of your hip.

Shit

You instinctively hovered your hand over your saber in defense, afraid that he might pull a move now that he knows you're a Jedi, well was.

“If you’re going to keep talking, at least tell me how long the walk is for the next town.”

“We’re in Jakku! You got to be kidding if you think you’re going to walk in this heat.” He exclaimed as he watched your despondent figure.

“Well, I didn’t plan on crash landing here…” You mumbled to yourself as you began to walk past him, if he wasn’t going to help you then you would do it yourself.

The speeder rumbled besides you, the man driving it excruciatingly slow to match your pace.

“It will take you 2 hours to walk but 15 minutes on my speeder.” He sighed.

You paused and raised your eyebrow, “What’s the catch?”

“No catch.”

You didn’t have much of a choice, by the time you’d reach civilisation, it’d be sunset and you couldn’t afford that, not when Jakku has one of the coldest nights. Taking a deep breath, you walked over to the man and threw your leg over his bike, his back uncomfortably close to you.

“Hold on tight,” he exclaimed, a grin plastered on his face. Without giving you a chance to even listen to him, the speeder bursted with speed, your body almost falling off. Your hands immediately rushed towards the sides of his figure but not close enough that your entire body was touching his.

It didn’t feel good though. You knew that if Anakin had seen this man being too close to you he wouldn’t see the light of day, but Anakin wasn’t here right now. And you didn’t know when you would see him next.

“My name's Dev!” He exclaimed over the howling of the wind.

“Cool.” You yelled out, not wanting to really know anything about this man considering you wouldn’t see him again after this.

“Yours?” He exclaimed again.

You remained silent, unsure on how to respond. “....Ani… My name’s Ani!” You didn’t know why you told him that, if anything you knew you didn’t want to tell him your actual name. In an isolated place like Jakku, it wasn’t bad to be too careful about your identity as your name had become some sort of a prodigy.

Dev nodded to himself, a smile growing on his face, “Nice to meet you, Ani.” You didn’t respond, unease growing in your stomach.

You both didn’t speak for the rest of the trip, instead, you relished in the feeling of the air hitting your face, closing your eyes as your head lightly hit his back. The speeder eventually came to a halt at a junkyard.

Hopping off of the bike, your eyes darted everywhere, taking in the outpost. Just traders, scavengers and outlaws.

“Well, there’s not much to it. Then again, you are in Jakku.” Dev said as got off his bike, his hands on his hips as he observed the surroundings.

“Mhm,” you mumbled to yourself, already walking away from him.

Dev broke into an awkward speed walk as he tried to catch up to you. He didn’t say anything beside you but followed you around like he was a mum trying to supervise his kid.

Looking around, there were a couple of jackets and worn out clothing on display. You walked over to the rack of clothing, the wind blowing it out. Your hands gently touched a poncho, it had no sleeves or zipper but was long in the back and short in the front, it shielded your arms from your elbow to your shoulder and had a dirty mediaeval look to it. Taking the poncho, you held it in your hands as you observed the other clothing.

“You stick out like a sore thumb,” Dev said beside you, a teasing tone in his voice.

“That’s why I’m picking out clothes, genius.” You pointed out, rolling your eyes as you walked over to the Teedo who had a cocky expression, pleased that someone who dressed classy had come to buy off of him.

“All of these please,” You plopped your clothing at his wooden desk.

“Republic Credits, no good.” he announced.

Your mouth fell agape, “What?” Ignoring the fact that he immediately thought of you as part of the Galactic Republic.

Dev tried to stifle a laugh and you shot him a glare in return. “What do you mean, no good?”

“We exchange here.”

“Yeah, well I’m exchanging my credits for these clothes.” You blinked.

Dev suddenly pulled out a small bag containing goods inside of it and dropped it in front of him, “Here, take these instead.” The Teedo eyed Dev carefully but Dev wouldn’t back down from his stare, his eyes almost commanding.

The Teedo cautiously took the small bag and opened it, a pleased smile lit up in his face and he nodded, taking the bag away from him.

Dev took your clothing and handed it to you. Narrowing your eyes, you took it grimly from not enjoying the fact that he had paid for you.

“Thank you,” you muttered as you looked down at your feet.

Dev waved his hand around, “It’s getting dark. We can go to my ship and stay there for the night.”

Not really feeling like arguing with him, you nodded and followed him as he led you to his ship. It was a small light cruiser but plentiful for you and him, at least for this one day. The cargo doors open as Dev walks you inside. It was a Republic light cruiser for all you could tell, having had to ride with it many times with Anakin and Obi-wan.

“Go down the hall, last room on the right, you can shower and change there.” Dev said without looking at you, fixing the manuals on his ship.

You nodded and walked towards the room. It was a bunker and you were going to assume that was where you’d sleep. In all honesty, you had no idea if you could trust Dev, but right now, he would be the only person you could trust in this planet.

Locking the door behind you with the touchpad attached to the wall, you slowly began to strip off your clothing, afraid that there was a hidden trick to this. You put your lightsaber and your comlink underneath the mattress of the bed, wanting it to be as safe as possible. You walked over to the very small bathroom that connected to your cabin and entered the shower. Turning on the shower, the hot water immediately hit your back as you held back a moan.

You began to slowly wash off the dirt and grime that stuck to your skin and thoroughly wash your hair. You closed your eyes and thought about Anakin, how much you missed him and what he was doing right now. Part of you was still hurt about what had happened between you and the council, but you were so far from it now that it seemed like a lifetime ago. But you couldn’t forget it at the same time. The distrust and blatant disrespect you felt by not only the council but by Anakin and those you loved as well, for them not to believe you but taking the council’s side instead?

You swallowed down the lump in your throat as you turned off the shower. There was no towel so you had to make do with what you had to dry yourself. You took your new clothing and threw them on, your Jedi robes neatly folded on your desk.

It didn’t look like you were a Jedi anymore, just a smuggler, but that was the look you were going for. Lifting your mattress, you pulled out the comlink and your saber, hooking it to the belt that was hidden underneath your jacket - making it invisible - and strapping on your comlink in your wrist. Walking out of your bunker, you made your way towards Dev who sat on the floor of the ship with his legs crossed.

“What are you doing?” You asked, sitting on the co-pilot seat. Dev had two packets of what looked to be some sort of powder or flour and two bowls of water on the floor.

“Making dinner,” He said without looking up at you.

Dev ripped open each packet and poured it in the liquid. His eyes focused as he began to stir each bowl with a small wooden spoon, his jaw clenched.

In almost a blink of an eye, the mixture began to lower before suddenly expanding, and a beige and green bread-like loaf was formed.

Dev then handed you your bowl with a sheepish smile, “Dinner is served.”

You picked up the bread and fiddled with it with your fingers, your eyes suspiciously rising as the bread had a hard texture almost as if it was just baked.

“Eat it while you can…Hard work getting rations around here, can’t always rely on your fancy credits.” Dev said as he began to take bites of his loaf, crumbs falling off with every bite he took.

Ignoring his last comment, you twirled the bread in your hand before taking a bite. It was dry to say the least. Dev was right though, you weren’t back at Coruscant with fancy food and luxury showers, you were in Jakku, practically nowhere.

“So, Ani,” Dev shoot you a look. You almost choked on your bread, forgetting that your name was supposingly Ani.

“What brings you here? It’s not common for a Jedi to wander around on this planet.” Dev questioned you, watching your reaction carefully.

“I’m not a Jedi.” You bit the inside of your cheek, shifting uncomfortably in your seat.

Dev raised his eyebrow, “Sweets, you have Republic credits, Jedi robes and a lightsaber. I beg to differ.”

“I stole it,” you shrugged, avoiding eye contact with him.

Dev began to hysterically laugh, clearly not believing in your lie. What was so unbelievable about that? I could totally steal from a Jedi if I wanted to, you scoffed to yourself.

“Okay…What actually brings you here.” He laughed in between his words, setting his bowl down.

There was no point in lying if he knew that you were a Jedi, you just hoped he wouldn’t take advantage of you for that.

“I got kicked out of the Order,” You confessed in a quieter tone, playing with the loaf of bread. Dev fell silent immediately, a somber expression on his face.

“Why?”

You shook your head, spinning in the co-pilot chair to face away from him, “That’s none of your business.” Yes, you could trust Dev after he took you in, brought you clothes and made you food but you weren’t ready to share personal backstories with him just yet. The cuts were still fresh and it hurts even thinking about it.

Dev went silent as he watched your back, his hands in his pocket. “We should be a team.”

“What?” You span to look at him, your eyes wide.

“We’ll do bounties together.”

“No.”

“You have nowhere to go,” Dev said as a matter of fact.

“No, I-I do,” All you could think about was Anakin. He would never approve of you for even listening to this. You could even hear Obi-wan scolding you.

“You have no home, no ship and no money. As a matter of fact, you need a great pilot and just in your luck-” Dev boasted, a glowing smile on his face. Dev was right. You needed a pilot. You weren’t exactly the greatest considering the reason you are talking to him was because of your plane crashing. You always relied on Anakin for flying, he was after all, the best. It was something Anakin had always teased you about.

….

….

“What kind of bounties?” You interrupted him, not wanting to dwell on past stories.

“We only capture people and worst case scenario, killing them-”

“And you always do this?” You asked, feeling suddenly uneasy, internally cursing yourself for even seeming remotely interested.

“I never pick the good guys, Ani, just the bad ones.” He reassured you, noticing the way you shifted in your seat from side to side.

“We can do one tomorrow and then you can decide if you really want to be my partner. We’ll split the reward and if not-” He raised his hands, “Then it was a pleasure knowing you.”

You had to take this. Dev was the only person you could remotely trust on this planet and you couldn’t pass on an opportunity to have some sort of stability. After all what he said was right, you didn’t have a ship therefore, no escape from this planet.

You nodded slowly, “Okay…Who are we getting tomorrow?”

“Tala Illnen. She is on the loose for the attempted murder of Ziro the Hutt when he visited his homeland in Sleheyron.” Dev said as if he had repeated it to himself many times, he had already planned to go there with or without you, you assumed.

“Well, I need weapons. I don’t want to use my lightsaber, it’ll make us a target.” You shrunk in your seat, feeling slightly dejected that you aren’t able to use your saber in the open.

“Already thought of that, sweets.” He said, picking up both of your bowls and placing them on a table, his back turned towards you. “Sleep on it. We have a big day tomorrow.” You nodded in response, you did in fact have a big day tomorrow. One that wasn’t very clear.

You got up from your seat, unsure if you should thank him or greet him a goodnight. You weren’t friends but he did help you and you might be his partner in crime.

“Your clothes suit you,” He complimented you, his back still turned against you and his eyes staring intensely to the empty bowels.

Okay.

…

A pink hue began to slowly crawl up your cheeks as you were taken back by the sudden compliment and that he noticed. Dev was probably used to the Bounty Hunter attire so it’d be obvious that he would prefer those on you than the Coruscant clothing. Obviously.

“Thanks.” You replied, not wanting to think much of his praise. You retreated to your cabin while Dev smiled to himself as he busied himself with the cruiser.

Locking the door behind you using the pad, you took off your jacket and placed it on the desk and slowly began to remove your shoes. You turned the lights off using the same pad near the doorway and walked over to your bed. You pulled the covers back and began to slither inside, it wasn’t as comfortable as your own Jedi chambers but you’d have to get used to it. It definitely wasn't as comfortable as Anakin's arms.

Snuggling into your bed, you closed your eyes. You need the rest. Afterall today was a long day. It was officially day one of your journey without the Jedi Order, Masters and Padawans. Without your best friends. Without him.

You couldn’t go back, not after what had happened. The people you thought were closest to you ending up betraying you, unbelieving of your pure intents and you don’t think you could forgive that too easily. It was like everything stopped for a second and the only thing you could process are the millions of memories and thoughts and emotions. They all collectively hit you at once making it harder for you to run away. You couldn’t forget the busy streets of Coruscant, the ships after ships that flew overhead while blinding you with their beams of lights. The mixture of tears, sweat and rain on your body. The yelling and screaming to find you. The soldiers after soldiers after soldiers that chased you down the tunnels. Because no one believed you.

But the greatest of comforts was the illusion that the dark is temporary.

A sudden beeping began to sound in your wrist, sending your heart racing. Pulling out your left wrist, small flickers of red emitted from your comlink.

You quickly sat up and brushed your hair behind your ears. Your heart was practically beating out of your chest while your stomach began to do somersaults.

“Okay…Okay…Okay…” You whispered to yourself, trying to soothe yourself. It was Anakin.

Pressing the small illuminated red button on your comlink, Anakin’s voice was heard.

“-Still nowhere to be found. Every hour that I’m not assigned for something...." he breathed. "I’m looking for you.” He sighed, it was almost like you could see him rubbing his face in discontent. His hair a mess, his jaw clenched and his muscles in knots.

“I miss you, Y/n." He said in a softer tone. His voice low, rough, like he hadn't slept for days.

"Wherever you go, I'm with you." He inhaled shakily. "Every moment that I'm not with you, I can't breathe."

"So please. Please, answer this. I don’t know if you’re dead. Alive. If you made it out safe. Just -force- tell me where you are and we’ll run away together. We’ll leave the order behind. I don't care. We'll get married like we had planned."

There was silence for a few seconds, deep and aching, before he continued.

“I would have died for you. I wanted to." He exclaimed, his voice hoarse.

You began to fiddle with the comlink, smashing the microphone button to allow you to communicate.

"Anakin?" You called out.

"I’m sorry…I wasn’t there to help you like I should have." He continued.

"Anakin, can you hear me?" Once more.

"I should've burnt down the whole universe for you. I won't fail again.”

It wasn't working. The goddamn comlink wasn't working. It was all because you fucking threw it on the floor. Gritting your teeth you kept pressing all kind of buttons, hoping a little red orb would flare.

“Obi-wan’s worried. He told me to keep trying to contact you. He wants me to remain calm, trust in the force and-” He sighed, “The Council don’t believe that I should be searching for you."

You brought the comlink underneath the covers with you, sniffling into your shirt.

"But I promise you , I will find you. Even if it's for the very last time. Even if you hate me." He breathed out.

"I love you.” Anakin said quietly. Then a beat of silence.

"This is pointless-” His voice snapped. It was then you heard a loud thud. Like metal clashing. Like in his anger he had hit something.

Static. A muffled voice. And then nothing.

He'd shut it off.

Groaning, you squinted your eyes and fell deeper in your bed. The comlink being one of the only things tethered to who you used to be.

Rubbing away the tears that threatened to fall out of your eyes, you laid on your side, holding the device close to you as you fell asleep.

Chapter Text

It had been four months since you were gone. You and Dev completed bounties over bounties, you made a name for yourself and Ani was heard throughout the galaxy.

That didn’t mean you weren’t a target for others, hell, you had people sent out to kill both you and Dev. But you managed. You had a very specific skill set, you didn’t use your saber’s, instead you used vibroblades which you found to be pretty similar to your lightsaber. Your blaster pistol was attached to your gun belt as a backup option which was handed to you by Dev.

If you were being honest, this life was completely different to how you spent your time back in the Jedi Order, but that didn’t mean you didn’t miss it. It was new and you weren’t bound by the Jedi Code. Part of you still followed the commandments as it’s been drilled in your head.

You pulled out your lightsaber from the same gun belt as your pistol and drew it out, the lapis blue light emitting from the saber. Squinting your eyes from the wind blowing sand, you clutched your saber tightly.

You began to do a senseless spin, the blade travelling in a circular motion in the front of your body, using the same momentum you brought behind your back, rotating your wrist to do rotations as you repeatedly brought it to your front and back.

Using the force, you lifted up an empty and discarded can of food into the air, your palm concentrating the energy to the can before completely letting it go. You striked the can with your saber as it was falling down, the can splitting in half and falling on the sand.

“Wow.” Dev said behind you, clapping his hands as he approached your figure.

“That was nothing,” you sighed, shaking your head as you deactivated your lightsaber.

“Not like I can do it,” Dev gave you a sheepish smile.

You placed your hands on your hips, “I’m getting rusty. It’s been a while since I’ve used my saber.”

“So, that’s what you’ve been doing in your free time?” He shot you a pitiful look but was almost immediately masked.

“You never know when it might come in handy,” You bit your lip, sort of embarrassed that he had caught you practising.

“You’re holding onto your past, Ani. Maybe it’s time you forget about it…” Dev suggested, his arm brushing yours.

His arm felt like fire against yours and you didn’t like it one bit. Crossing both of your arms together with your saber still in your hand, you looked down at the floor.

“Don’t say that. The Order was my life,” You reminded him.

“But they left you-”

“You don’t know that!” You interrupted him, narrowing your eyes at his muscular face.

“The Republic is corrupt. The Jedi blindly follow their orders and serve a system that doesn’t support their values.” He said with his chest out and unblinking.

“You don’t know anything, Dev.” You pointed accusingly at his chest, it hurt that he was saying the truth, afterall, that was the reason you had left. The Jedi’s morals have been twisted and mended by those in power that everything they did had caused a contradiction.

“I know more than you’d think.”

“You were here-” You pointed to the ground, “-While the rest of us had to fight, win and lose. You were killing people and capturing outlaws while I lost my friends in battle. So don’t,” You sighed, rubbing your forehead and looking out, “dont, tell me to forget something that’s such a big part of me.”

…

Dev fell silent as he watched you sit on the sandy floor, your legs spread out and your face pointed towards the sun, allowing the rays to warm you up.

“I’m sorry,” He apologised, sitting beside you.

You shook your head, “No… I just overreacted.” Avoiding eye contact, your fingers began to play with the grainy sand. “You’re right. I should be moving on.”

As much as it hurt to say it, you knew Dev was right. The problem was you were just too attached, even after the trauma they had put you through, even after knowing how truthful his words were. You had given everything to the Order only for it to be completely shut down, your loyalty proving to be one sided. Sighing, you rested your head on Dev’s shoulder who immediately stiffened.

“No, sweets. It was my fault for bringing up your past again,” His blonde hair tickled the back of your neck.

You fell in comfortable silence as you both stared at nothing in particular. This is how it is now. Dev had become your closest friend, he had his moments but other than that, he’d help you in a heartbeat.

He’s a nice guy, really, but he doesn’t compare.

Not to Anakin.

 

---------

 

These four months had been the worst months of Anakin’s life. His padawan, Ahsoka, had left him and he now lost you. It wouldn’t be late before he lost himself too.

Ahsoka left on her own terms, insisting that the Jedi Order wasn’t for her anymore and that her ideals would never truly be appreciated by the Order. Part of the reason why she had left was because Ahsoka knew that the Order was slowly falling apart, the Jedi were guided by the corrupt government and it wasn’t right. She didn’t want to be part of an already sinking ship.

Anakin didn’t know that though. “What about me?” He asked her, believing that even Ahsoka, his own padawan, was out to get him.

He felt like he had failed her. But you helped him. You took care of him, caressing his hair and rubbing his shoulders. Whispering words of comfort and reassurance. That her leaving wasn’t because of him. That he didn’t fail his one and only padawan.

“Anakin.” Obi-wan’s voice brought him back to reality.

“Hmm?” Anakin looked over at his former Master in confusion.

“Were you even listening to me?” Obi-wan asked in an offended tone, crossing his arms as he observed Anakin. His furrowed brows and the bags under his eyes proved that he was not doing as well as Obi-wan wanted him to.

Anakin stayed silent, diverting his gaze to the other Jedi who chatted outside of the Temple, some had bright smiles on their faces while others looked like they were discussing important matters. But his gaze fell on one person.

Anakin could feel his heart drop.

A girl with her back turned towards the pair, talking happily to another Jedi as if she had just reunited with them. She had your hair. She was the same height. Anakin’s mouth fell agape and instinctively took a step forward, wanting to touch you, yell at you, hug you, kiss you.

He was locked in a trance, staring at you as millions and billions of emotions and thoughts ran through him.

Obi-wan followed his gaze and felt his heart drop too, but not for the same reason. Reaching out to Anakin, he placed a hand on his shoulder.

“That’s not her.”

Anakin broke his gaze immediately, looking down at his feet in almost a shameful way. He could feel the disappointment running through his veins.

Shifting his body to look over at Obi-wan, he felt embarrassment seethe into him as Obi-wan shared a pitiful look towards Anakin.

“What?” Anakin asked, feeling more lightheaded than ever.

“She’s not on Coruscant.” Obi-wan had to break it to him as if Anakin didn’t know it himself.

Anakin sighed and ran his fingers through his auburn hair, “I-I thought…” He couldn’t even say the words out loud because he promised himself this.

That he would move on just like you did.

But it was like you were everywhere he was. In the shadows while he carried out missions. In his bed when he tried to sleep. And here again, while he spoke to Obi-wan. He hated this. He hated how attached he was. But he would give up everything for you in a heartbeat.

“Do you still try to talk to her through the comlink?”

Anakin whipped his head up, surprised that Obi-wan had even remembered, afterall he was the one who suggested he try it.

Anakin inhaled deeply, “No. Not anymore.”

Obi-wan knew he could ask him questions like that as Anakin trusted him with his forbidden relationship, but even he felt uneasy. “When was the last time you tried to contact her?” He rubbed his beard, assessing the situation.

Anakin audibly exhaled. His heart and his chest were heavy and he didn’t feel like explaining himself.

It was a month ago.

He didn’t stop altogether though, it was gradual.

His messages gradually declined in length, hopelessness was the only thing that reached the other end. You had noticed it. Sinking further in your bed every single time the message shortened, guilt eating away at you as he had no idea you were listening to them.

Then suddenly, like a flip switched in him. Like whatever he was about to say he was trying to convince himself more than anyone else.

“She left me. So I’ll forget about her.” He announced with a sudden determination to his voice.

Obi-wan raised an eyebrow at this, “What in the heavens are you talking about, Anakin?”

“She’s gone. And I blame both the council and her.”

“Anakin, Y/n wouldn’t want you talking like this.” Obi-wan tried to reassure him. It was unusual for him to talk ill of you, this was definitely something alarming in Obi-wan’s eyes.

Anakin shot Obi-wan a look, “I don’t care what she thinks. She walked away from me. From us. She didn’t give a damn about me or you.” Anakin pointed towards the ground.

“She left to protect herself, Anakin.” Obi-wan reminded him. Obi-wan knew that Anakin’s words weren’t true and that he didn’t truly feel this way about you, instead it was just pent up frustration.

"So she leaves just like Ahsoka did? She knew how much that hurt me and still chose to do it." His snapped, his eyes blazing. Anakin said the things he would never say out loud, it was the things he would let fester in his chest. It was darker.

“I feel like my absence doesn’t bother her and that kills me, Obi-wan.” Anakin confessed, looking away as he reminded himself that you didn’t make an effort to at least reach out to him. It felt like the past years of your love and friendship were all for nothing.

Obi-wan understood why you never returned to The Order. He knew that it was for the same reasons Ahsoka left and he would have loved to tell Anakin that but he’d be treading on dangerous territory.

“Y/n wouldn’t work to deliberately hurt you. The force works in mysterious ways and maybe she felt it was right not to stay in the Order." Obi-wan said very carefully, afraid the wrong words would set him off.

"Being a Jedi means allowing things - even things we love - to pass out of our lives.” His words reaching Anakin’s core.

He knew what Obi-wan said made sense, he knew it but he couldn’t help but have a distaste for the force.

Why would it be telling you to stay away from him? Why does being a Jedi have to force her to not love him? Why are his feelings forbidden? Taboo?

He found himself being more confused with every second passing by. Every answer he received brought up double the amount of questions he originally had.

Anakin opened his mouth to answer before quickly shutting it when he heard Obi-wan’s wrist comlink make a chrr chrrrr sound. Lifting his wrist up to his mouth, Obi-wan glanced over at Anakin's interested face before answering it.

“Master Kenobi,” Mace Windu’s voice sounded through the device.

“Yes, Master Windu?”

“You’re needed at a council meeting. It’s regarding…Sifo-Dyas.”

Obi-wan furrowed his eyebrows, it was unclear why he would be brought up again as he had died years before. Obi-wan could sense Anakin’s confusion through the force as he observed him.

“I’ll be there shortly.” Obi-wan said calmly. Mace Windu wished him a goodbye before disconnecting the call. Anakin could feel his shoulders slouching, knowing that he wasn’t part of the council and he couldn’t attend the meeting.

“You’re going?” Anakin asked, his lips pursed together and his gaze set to the floor.

“Yes, Anakin.” Obi-wan knew that Anakin was hurting. He hasn’t told anybody else how he feels except for him and constantly putting his emotions off wasn’t helping him.

Anakin nodded and they both parted ways.

 

----

 

The bar you and Dev resided in smelled of drunken bodies and despair. A sullen restaurant that you didn’t want to enter but you were pulled in with Dev’s grip on your arm as he shot you a careless smile.

Drinking in a secluded bar on Corellia wasn’t your first choice as you wanted to prepare for the upcoming bounty but Dev insisted that it might be your last drink for a while. It’d actually be your first drink since leaving The Order but even then you wouldn’t drink as much as the Council always discouraged Jedi’s being intoxicated.

You exhaled as both you and Dev dropped onto the chair that was seated across the counter. Dev’s booted feet began to excitedly tap against the wooden flooring as he waited for the Iktotchi bartender to look over at him which he immediately did as Dev’s anticipation was so loud it could almost be heard throughout the whole bar.

“What can I get for you two?” The horned man who had a nice peachy colour to his skin asked, one of his eyebrows raised as he eyed us both down. Corellia was a luxurious place but even then the most well-known occupations for Corellian's were piracy and smuggling, giving you and Dev an advantage as you fit right in.

“The best drink you can offer!” Dev exclaimed, slapping onto the counter multiple credits.

The Iktotchi nodded as he began to work. You looked around the bar, it was neatly decorated with dim lighting. The tabled were packed as Corellians drank their alcoholic beverages while others played a game of Dejarik. Something inside of you stirred as you saw two people with their brows furrowed playing while a third excitedly watched the players.

“You excited?” Dev brought you back from your trance. Looking over at him, you noticed the way his soulful azure eyes danced over your face. His golden locks had grown past his ears and he tied it in a manbun with the occasional strands resting past his red goggles. He was in a white crew neck shirt, his sleeves hugged his biceps tightly.

You gave him a teasing smile, “What is ever more exciting than bounty hunting?”

Dev threw his head back as his masculine chest shook with laughter, his smile lines drawing on to his face. “I’m glad you’ve gotten used to my lifestyle because you know-” He leaned over to you, his mouth nearing your ear, “-I didn’t think the Jedi one was cutting it out for you.” His voice was gruff but he had a playful tone to it, had it been in a different setting though, you would be sure there were other motives.

He pulled back from you and watched you look away hiding the red hue that crawled up your cheeks from his close proximity and embarrassment.

You puffed out your cheeks and rolled your eyes, “You wouldn’t know.” You looked over at Dev and watched the way his smile faltered for a second but before you could even process it, it was gone that same second.

You opened your mouth to say something but was interrupted as the Iktotchi bartender reappeared with two tall glasses filled up with liquor.

“What’s the occasion?” The bartender’s thick voice made you look up to him as you took a glass from his hand. You didn’t really know what the occasion was. All you knew was that Dev really wanted to get drunk before his bounty and that was it. Nothing more, nothing less.

“Our one year anniversary together as partners!” Dev toasted, holding his glass high and towards you.

One year? Already? It had been one year since you crashed on Jakku and became a Bounty Hunter. Wow.

The bartender nodded and walked away, you held your glass high but not nearly as high as Dev and you shot him an uneasy smile.

Dev brought the glass to his lips and let out a small groan as the sweet liquor travelled down his throat, a satisfied expression on his face.

Has it actually been an entire year since you left the Jedi? Since Anakin and Obi-wan? Since you had been accused. A knot began to form in your stomach as you thought about how they probably didn’t think of you anymore. That you were simply a Jedi who lost her path and abandoned her future. You practised their beliefs but that was it, their beliefs. You weren’t strict on it, it was more like morals. Like a religion.

“Ani?” You shot your head up to look at Dev, almost completely forgetting his presence. Dev watched you carefully as you stirred the drink in your hand as if you were deep in thought - which you were - and the way you nibbled on the inside of your lip, your eyes lost in liquid. You didn’t notice it. But Dev did.

“Sorry!” You squeaked, trying to hide the fact that you were thinking about what he had said and let it affect you. You brought the glass to your lip and tilted it as the pure liquor ran through your throat. It was warm and had a sweet taste to it. It was Brandy.

Brandy was often associated with snobbery as it was a luxury liquor and knowing that Dev had just paid for it with an absent mind made every droplet taste like guilt.

“Dev. It’s Brandy. It’s too much for us.” You and Dev had always been conscious of where your rewards go, money wasn’t a luxury for either of you. Dev had been in the game longer so it felt out of the norm for him to use his credits on drinks instead of supplies.

“Today is a special day. Besides, luxury can still be afforded in war.” Dev said as a matter of factly.

“That could definitely be debated.”

You nearly choked on your drink as you head shot up to the HoloTv above the bar counter. The mention of their names couldn’t be missed just like it was hard to ignore the passersby who would talk about them. You pursed your lips together as you watched the figure of two men displayed on the HoloTv, one with wavy dark hair that resided just behind his ears, and the other with neatly combed chestnut hair and a beard that hid away his face.

The Hero With No Fear and The Negotiator.

Anakin and Obi-wan.

Your stomach did flips as you watched the pair displayed proudly on the HoloTv, a man's voice commentating and discussing their recent battle. Several video clips and images of the pair were shown but none of them were actual ‘interviews’. They had become some sort of prodigy with every article on the HoloNet discussing the two, though even when you were with them, Obi-wan tried to stay out of it while Anakin indulged in the paparazzi.

An image of Anakin appeared, a genuine smile on his face. You could tell it was recent too, noticing the difference in his appearance over a years time. He looked…happier. Happier than he was with you. Maybe it was the Brandy talking but you had completely forgotten what it was like to see Anakin that happy. The last time you saw him was during one of the worst days of your life.

He moved on, hadn’t he?

Your name hadn’t crossed his mind while his ran racetracks around yours.

“God…” you quietly breathed out, sinking further into your seat, the Brandy now having a sour taste on your tongue.

He moved on.

He moved on.

Anakin moved on and he was happier without you.

He didn’t want you anymore.

He stopped talking to his comlink.

And he stopped talking to you.

Even if he didn’t know it, his words -his voice- gave greater comfort to you than anyone could ever realise it in the galaxy. It meant that he still thinks of you. That he was still in love with you. And that he still fought for you. But it made sense. You moved on too, hadn’t you?

You had a new job and you’ve met new people. You wanted to convince yourself that. But as you continued to watch, every little movement he’d make sent adrenaline through your bloodstream and you wanted to cry.

“Did you know him?” Dev asked beside you, his eyes moving back and forth between your upset face and the HoloTv.

You gulped, avoiding eye contact with him.

“No.” You firmly said, pushing your chair back with your fists on the counter, a screeching noise was produced and all eyes were suddenly on you. Hastily walking out of the bar with your fists clenched and your head down, you pushed the door.

“Hey, wait up!” Dev trailed behind your figure, his silhouette illuminated by the neon glow the cantina had.

Clenching your jaw, you whipped your head to face him, a mix of emotions swirling inside you that Dev could easily see.

“What do you want?”

He raised an eyebrow at your sudden attitude change, “Well you did just leave our one year anniversary, Ani.”

“Stop calling it our one year anniversary!” You exclaimed, wanting to grab your hair and pull it out from frustration. “We are not partners. Just work-” You poked his chest, “work partners.”

“Who said anything about it being more?” He raised his hands up innocently, “Just because you’re piss angry at your past doesn’t mean you have to push it on to me.” His eyebrows furrowed and his body began to slowly tower over you.

“I-I” You turned your back onto him, your arms wrapping around you as you were at a loss for words. “I am over my past, Dev.”

“Yeah, it sure looks like it.” He huffed, cold air escaping his mouth.

“Listen, Ani. I’m not here to fight with you.” He pulled out his datapad, his fingers dancing across the surface. “We have a lead on a bounty a couple cities down. We might be able to secure a big payday. I thought you might want to know.”

Rubbing your head, your eyes met with your dirty boots before turning to look back at him. “Okay…Okay. I’m sorry, Dev.”

Dev softly smiled at you before inputting the coordinates onto his datapad. His figure moved past you and towards the cruiser in a way that felt unusual to him. You couldn’t blame him. He wanted to do something special for the both of you and you had to end it on a sour mood. Sighing to yourself, you quietly followed behind him.

Chapter Text

A dimly lit mission room deep within the Jedi Temple, Anakin Skywalker, Obi-wan Kenobi and Mace Windu gathered around a holographic display. The hum of the holographic offered a soft backdrop to their conversation.

“Many reports of two skilled bounty under the names ‘Ani’ and ‘Dev’ have been causing disruptions across various sectors.” Mace Windu sternly said whilst Anakin gulped at the use of a name he hasn’t heard in a year. “They have slipped through the Republic forces on multiple occasions.”

Obi-wan leaned forward, “two bounty hunters causing this much trouble? That's unusual.”

“Indeed. But their methods have grown more aggressive, even by bounty hunter standards. What is more concerning is Dev. ” Mace Windu tapped the datapad and the holographic image flickered to life, a materialised image of a young boy no older than 15.

“But that’s only a boy.” Anakin furrowed his eyebrows at Mace Windu, confusion evident on his face.

“Once a boy, yes. He was once a skilled Jedi, dismissed from the Order for the refusal to adhere to the Code. His descent began when he lost his family and, in a fit of anger, slaughtered civilians. Dark tendencies grew within him.”

Anakin stiffened immediately and felt a foreboding feeling grow in his stomach. Obi-wan's expression darkened beside him. “A former Jedi turned bounty hunter with such a violent past…It’s troubling.”

“And what about this..Ani?” Anakin reluctantly asked.

“She is a much newer addition to the bounty hunting world, but she has proved to be some sort of a prodigy. They were just spotted on Corellia after a bombing to capture Dengar, another well known bounty who worked with Maul and Savage to capture me.” Mace Windu informed them, turning off the holograph.

Obi-wan frowned, concern etching lines on his face. “We’re going after two bounty hunters? Isn’t that more of a job for local security forces in Corellia?”

Mace’s gaze shifted from Anakin to Obi-wan, “You both are uniquely skilled in dealing with unconventional situations. We need to contain them before they both spiral out of control.”

Anakin’s jaw tightened, resolve evident in his eyes. “Understood, Master Windu.”

Obi-wan nodded in agreement, his focus unwavering. “We’ll head to Corellia immediately.”

“Good. May the force guide your actions.” Mace Windu stood tall.

—

Anakin and Obi-wan sat in the ship en route to Corellia. Neither had spoken a word, just eyes drifting at the stars that illuminated outside.

Dev.

Ani.

Not their real names. It wasn't hard to miss the amount of blanks throughout their whole file. Dev's one gave a general consensus though; a disobedient Jedi Padawan, now a runaway. But the latter… No image. No backstory. It was as if she only existed a few months ago.

Anakin ran a hand through his hair, teeth gnawing the inside of lips. His eyes lazily read the datapad in his lap. A boy stared back at him. Dev. Just 15 years of age in the image, younger than the recent sightings of him. Much younger. His eyes looked hollow, already hard. Like part of him had lost something but was never filled again.

“Nothing on the girl?” Obi-wan asked beside him, still gazing out the window, but deep in thought.

Anakin inhaled, his chest rising against his robes and shook his head. “Nothing. Her name is clearly a placeholder, but no record of her.” Anakin turned off the datapad.

“She is either very smart,” Obi-wan murmured, “or lucky.”

Anakin leaned in his seat not liking either answer. “What business do they have blowing up a civilian square in the middle of a Corellian protest?”

Obi-wan stroked his beard, “I’d say they are after another bounty hunter. Denger I assume. He was spotted here the night before.”

“So they try and bring him in, only to level half the plaza in the process?”

“Looks like it.”

Scoffing, Anakin dragged his hand down his face.

Outside the ship, Corellia was a mess. Alarms sounding through the cities, smoke darkening the skies and protest fires on the rooftops. What was usually a beautiful planet is now filled with protests against the war.

Once the ship doors opened, Anakin and Obi-wan were hit with heat. Not physical. But tension. Soldiers and civilians buzzing through the streets, it was as if they weren’t at a docking platform.

“Well, it seems like we have your day cut out for us.” Obi-wan muttered as they made their way down the streets, glancing at the protest signs abandoned on the floor. “No Justice, No peace” was written in Corellian dialect.

Burn marks scattered around the floor piquing Anakin’s interests. Crouching down, his fingers gently grazed the soot left, leaving his fingers darkened.

“There was a bombing,” Anakin concluded, spotting several pieces of metal scattered around the floor.

Obi-wan nodded, "the security reports said they did vanish into the crowds before troops arrived.” His eyes scanned the crowd up ahead. “I’d say our perpetrators are there.”

That annoyed Anakin more than it should have.

“Then we’ll start there,” Anakin said.

—

Corellia bled with fury and fight.

Anakin walked ahead, his hood drawn low and his feet dragging along the concrete, stones skidding away. He wasn’t really in the mood. Trying to find 2 cloaked figures in a sea of more cloaked figures wasn’t exactly ideal. After 2 hours of dead ends, he kept replaying the grainy footage hoping it would offer a clue.

On the other hand, Obi-wan walked behind being Obi-wan. A calm diplomatic Jedi master. He was always asking the right questions to the right vendors, nodding and being friendly. His warm voice made people eager and more keen to offer tips.

“I spoke to the surveillance clerk”, Obi-wan broke the silence, catching up to Anakin. “He said the crowd tripled after the bombing, half running to shelter and the other protesting even more.”

Anakin stopped in front of a sign that read “THE REPUBLIC DOESN’T SEE US”, the edges of the banner burnt.

“Give it a few days and then the Senate will fix this with a speech.”

Obi-wan’s face hardened, “Well it is the Senate’s job to do that.”

“It shouldn’t be.” Anakin muttered, leaving Obi-wan dumbfounded. Did he mean that the planet should fend for itself, fixing its own politics? Or did he mean that the Senate was useless, giving out speeches with no real backlayer. Maybe a bit of both.

Obi-wan pursed his lips, his eyes scanning the buildings that now had a layer of dust covering it. Walking was starting to get irritating as every few seconds a person would nudge their shoulder with their own, making them lose focus every few seconds.

That’s when Anakin saw it.

Small smears of red on the cobblestone wall. Dried and just there. Followed by a few more droplets that painted the floor into an alley.

Anakin crouched down taking a further look, gaining Obi-wan’s attention.

“Blood.” Obi-wan hummed, stroking his beard thoughtfully.

“Might not be theirs.”

“Still, we are Jedi. Whoever blood it belongs to may need help.” Obi-wan advised.

They followed the trail that led to a rusted backdoor. Anakin didn’t hesitate. Immediately pushing past the door as it creaked loudly.

It was dim inside.

And in the corner was an elderly Twi’lek couple.

Anakin and Obi-wan both flinched, least expecting to break into a home.

The couple sat on the floor, a blanket engulfing their lower body and a half-crushed medpac that rested near their feet.

Obi-wan immediately put his hands up in defence, “We’re not here to harm you.”

The couple's eyes traced both Anakin and Obi-wan’s figure, their eyes flickering between the saber’s that rested on their hip and their defensive face.

Noticing that they haven’t said anything, Anakin used the opportunity and stepped forward, the woman clutched her blanket a bit tightly.

“We’re investigating the bombing that happened here. Do you know anything about that?”

The male shook his head, his blue tentacle like tendrils moving with him, “N-no.”

Obi-wan moved up with Anakin, realising that they can speak Basic. “A young man with blonde hair and a cloaked girl. Does it sound any familiar?”

The couple stiffened.

Silence.

Anakin folded his arms and furrowed his brows, “they came here. Didn’t they?” His tone lowered.

Silence.

“They paid you.” Obi-wan spoke calmly, already analysing the situation.

The purple woman looked down, and then gently picked up the half used medpac, her hands shaking.

“The girl…was worried.” Her voice was soft spoken. “Not for herself, but him. He was bleeding.”

Obi-wan crossed his arms, parallel to Anakin and stared down the medpac. “So you helped them..”

“It is not a crime to help someone!” The man besides her called out defensively, squinting his eyes.

“Well it is a crime to help terrorists,” Anakin muttered, but loud enough for everyone to hear.

“Terrorists?” The woman's eyes widened. “They were terrorists?”

Obi-wan glanced over to Anakin and tried to laugh it off, not wanting to send the couple into cardiac arrest. “Well. We aren’t sure of anything.” He tilted his head. “Do you know where they are now?”

The older woman nodded speedily, “She said she was heading to the city square where the protests are. Near the farmers market. But..she was scared.”

Anakin lifted his brow, “of what?”

Looking him dead in the eye, “being seen,” she announced.

–

Obi-wan and Anakin were on the outskirts, just enough steps to see the masses of bodies that moved.

Protestors moved, some shouted and some watched. It wasn’t long before Obi-wan caught a flicker.

A flicker of gold that was reflecting from the sun. Moving too fast. An uncomfortable limp.

Obi-wan’s eyes widened and locked onto the figure. Blonde hair. Broad shoulders. It was worth a shot.

“That might be him,” Anakin huffed, already making his way down, eager to end this mission.

Obi-wan rolled his eyes, “Always ahead of the game,” he said, racing down the steps and into the crowd.

It was suffocating. You could feel the sweat and anger that radiated off the bodies.

Obi-wan pushed through bodies, wanting the man to enter a clearing before holding him in the masses of people. Locals were yelling in languages he didn’t recognise which only intensified everything around him. His cloak constantly was snagging on someone’s arm but he didn’t stop, pushing through, curses were flying at him.

He needed an opening - just one - and it would be fine.

Something is off.

The force rippled.

The blonde headed man suddenly turned his head towards Obi-wan.

It was him. It was Dev.

And not far behind him was a cloaked figure. Her.

Dev locked eyes with Obi-wan, his eyes widening and stray locks of hair falling on his face.

“Jedi!” Dev exclaimed to you, his eyes darting between behind you and yourself.

Without even taking a chance to glance behind you, you began to push through the crowd. Gritting your teeth, you used your arms to almost shove people out of the way. You could not be caught as a bounty hunter. It was not necessarily the legality of it, it was the bombing that was associated with you and it was your honour shattering that you have been reduced to this much. How low the galaxy forced you to crawl just to survive.

Just a little further. A little further and there was an opening and you got yourself out of this mess.

“Dev! Over there!” You barked, pointing towards the clearing. Dev nodded and attempted to make his way out with his limp. His face pale but understanding. He always understood. Understood you. You didn’t need to speak much for him to completely understand you.

You surged through the crowd with all your might. Suddenly hyper aware of the blaster at your side, your fingers grazed it, ready to use if anyone tried touching you.

Relief. Oxygen. As you finally made it out of the crowd. Your hands were shaking but you didn’t stop, you can’t stop.

And then- a shove.

Dev’s body slammed into the ground right where he was supposed to make it out and the Jedi tackled him to the side. You heard him grunt in protest, his wrists pinned and the right of his face scraped against the ground.

Before you could react and turn back to Dev, you heard the hum of a saber.

Right behind you.

What should I do?

Fuck.

They’re getting closer.

Your lungs feel like they could explode and your chest hurts. You’re running so fast. Any of that relief you had just felt from making it out was gone. Dead. You just felt like you were burning. Your veins pumping with adrenaline – hot and sharp and screaming.

You didn’t dare look behind you. If you did it would slow you down immensely.

But it didn’t matter.

A rough hand –bigger than your own– pulling on your forearm, throwing you down, your hood falling in the process. Without another second to think your free arm gripped onto your vibroblade. Having been pulled down to the ground, you shifted your body to meet the Jedi, your blade coated in cortosis weave and pointing up towards said person.

.

..

…

“Y/n?”

It was like time stopped.

You locked eyes.

Your mouth fell open.

His did too. Confusion. Bewilderment. Shock. All on his face.

His voice… Sounded different. Quieter than you remembered. It wasn’t anger. It wasn’t hateful. Just quiet. Broken.

Your right hand weakened and the blade fell down on the floor besides you, the metal clanging against the concrete. Your palms fell on the floor and you found yourself staring at…Anakin above you.

Anakin staggered back, stunned, as if he was shot straight through the heart. His head shook slowly and ever so subtly but in complete disbelief.

No one said anything. You couldn’t hear anything. It was just you two. Two broken people. The force felt electrifying, like it was rippling and pulling both of you towards each other.

Anakin loomed over you, the deep blue of his saber still humming, but pointing towards the ground. His own arms feeling too weak to even lift it. His face was unreadable. His dark brown hair looked longer, almost below his ears. His eyes…tired. Like he was staring at a grave.

It wasn’t until the other Jedi came out, holding Dev in handcuffs that you realised your situation. It was Obi-wan, of course it was. Of course it was Anakin and Obi-wan who would catch up to you. Dev struggled in defiance, his face discontent.

Obi-wan walked up beside Anakin, and then his eyes fell on you.

“Y/n?” His voice was quiet, like he wasn’t sure if this was real or not. “You’re Ani?”

You looked away from him, pursing your lips in shame. What were you supposed to say? You weren’t supposed to be caught, stripped of your mask. You were just supposed to be Ani. Not Y/n.

You swallowed hard, your fingers soft in comparison to the floor. You were now looking up to both Anakin and Obi-wan but –force– you felt so much smaller than you actually were.

Anakin inhaled sharply, his saber hissed off yet his grip strong enough that his knuckles were still white. Running a hand through his hair, he turned his back to you, moving away from both you and Obi-wan. You felt the disappointment in the air. You felt the judgement from the people who you used to consider the closest to you. Anakin turning his back to you after a year said more words than he did.

But he could feel his heart hammering against his chest.

thump

He was suddenly hyper aware of his breathing.

thump-thump

The way he wasn't sure what to do with his empty left hand.

thump

The fact that his knees would buck in any minute.

thump-thump-thump

It felt like everything was swirling around him and he needed to ground himself.

However, Obi-wan walked over to you, crouching down to eye level. You noticed the small things in his face, the way he had worry lines on his forehead, a slight frown, and furrowed eyebrows. He wasn’t looking at you like a master or a commander, but a concerned friend.

“Y/n, you became a bounty hunter?” He asked.

You didn’t know how to respond. What were you going to say? Yes? Well, yes you are. But suddenly you felt embarrassed. Ashamed.

“I…” You croaked out.

“You know them?” Dev called out, struggling against his cuffs. All three of you diverted your gaze to Dev.

Dev broke Anakin from his trance, his need to distract himself hitting him harder than ever. He needed to redirect his attention to something else just like he was doing for the past year. Anakin stood still for a moment before grabbing the back of his shirt, replacing Obi-wan but far too aggressively.

“Hold her.” Anakin said to Obi-wan, forcing his voice to be strong. “We’ll take them somewhere else.”

That’s it? That’s all he’s going to say?

Anakin spoke as if he didn’t know you. Like you were some lowlife smuggler. Obi-wan even felt caught between two worlds. Was he supposed to disregard your history together? Or would he hold you accountable?

Clearing his throat, Obi-wan pulled out stuncuffs from his satchel, looking at you as if you were a wounded animal.

“I’m just going to put these on just for now. Precaution.” He said softly.

Nodding, you slipped in your fallen vibroblade to your belt and slowly brought out both your arms in front of him. Obi-wan hesitantly and carefully attached the cuffs to your arms.

Click.

Immediate discomfort radiated in your arms, the restraints tightening specifically on your wrists.

You looked up at Obi-wan who you could tell was uncomfortable with the situation.

“I’m fine, Obi-wan.” You tried to reassure him.

Obi-wan nodded, inhaling deeply before getting up. Scrambling to your feet against the concrete, you rose and immediately felt smaller than you were. Now seeing both Obi-wan and Anakin in their usual height, it felt different. Like there was a rift between you three.

Looking over at Anakin, Obi-wan scratched his beard. “We won’t be able to fly tonight. It seems the city's protests will make it difficult to get out slyly.”

Without a response, Anakin began to drag a cursing Dev to Force knows where.

Obi-wan followed behind him but distant enough, making sure you were keeping up.

The walk felt excruciatingly long as there was nothing but pained silence. Every now and then you could feel Obi-wan’s gaze drill holes in you. Anakin said and did nothing but hold onto Dev and try to find an abandoned place for the night. You were lucky enough Obi-wan still trusted you to allow you to walk on your own.

It wasn’t until he broke the silence.

“Are you okay?” Obi-wan spoke in a hushed voice, trying not to gain Anakin’s attention but that was naive thinking. Anakin heard everything when it came to you.

You blinked at the question, unsure what to say. Your throat tightening but you forced out an “I’m okay.”

Silence.

A beat passed.

“Are you?” He asked again but much quieter. He knew your response and he knew not to expect an answer but if he didn’t ask now it would eat his conscience later.

“Yeah. Just tired.” Anakin’s grip tightened on Dev, their boots scraping and their clothes shifting pulled your focus.

The sky began to set and orange rays stretched far and wide. Dipped in dusk and every step you took would create long shadows of the three of you. The chants from the protest began to fade and street lights began to flicker on.

Anakin was a walking storm. He was silent. You missed the way he said your name. It sounded like honey -warm, golden- like he almost remembered what it meant to him. Except he didn't.

Instead, it was a taste from a dream he couldn’t quite remember.

Anakin stopped at a stone-framed building. Abandoned, yes but still intact. The door had its hinges, there was no lights except from the windows and no lifeforms either. Without saying a word, Anakin dragged Dev inside, the door creaking open and they vanished into the unknown.

You and Obi-wan stood in silence.

“He’ll be alright.” He said gently, not exactly sure if he meant Dev or Anakin. Nodding, you stepped inside first, the evening wind biting your skin. Obi-wan followed right behind you.