B L A M E ( Anakin Skywalker)

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: The Council's Decree

Anakin Skywalker stood before the Jedi Council, his hands clasped behind his back as he awaited their judgment. The chamber was shrouded in a veil of solemnity, the members of the council seated in a semicircle before him, their expressions grave and contemplative.

"Anakin," Master Yoda spoke, his voice steady and unwavering, "we have summoned you here to discuss your next mission."

Anakin nodded, his gaze fixed upon the council members, his heart pounding with anticipation. He knew that the council's decision would shape the course of his destiny, leading him down a path fraught with danger and uncertainty.

"Your skills as a Jedi Knight have been tested time and time again, Anakin," Master Windu continued, his tone measured and authoritative. "And yet, there is still much for you to learn. Much for you to prove."

Anakin's jaw clenched at the implied criticism, though he knew that it was not unwarranted. He had made mistakes in the past, had allowed his emotions to cloud his judgment and lead him astray. But he was determined to prove himself worthy of the trust that the council had placed in him."I understand, Master Windu," Anakin replied, his voice resolute. "I am ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead."The council members exchanged knowing glances, their eyes betraying a mixture of skepticism and concern. They knew that Anakin's journey would not be an easy one, that the temptations of the dark side would continue to test his resolve at every turn."Very well, Anakin," Master Yoda said finally, his voice tinged with a note of caution. "Your next mission will take you to the planet of Alderaan, where reports of unrest have reached our ears. You are to investigate these disturbances and report back to us with your findings."Anakin nodded, his mind already racing with thoughts of the mission ahead. He knew that Alderaan was a world of great significance, a beacon of hope in a galaxy consumed by conflict. And yet, he also knew that danger lurked in the shadows, waiting to ensnare the unwary. As you wish, Masters," Anakin replied, his voice steady and determined. "I will not fail you.

"With a solemn nod, the council members dismissed Anakin, their eyes following him as he made his way out of the chamber. And as he disappeared from view, they couldn't help but wonder what trials awaited him on the distant world of Alderaan-and whether he would emerge unscathed from the crucible of his destiny.
Anakin exited the council chambers, his mind still reeling from the weight of their decision. As he made his way through the corridors of the Jedi Temple, he was intercepted by Obi-Wan Kenobi, who fell into step beside him.

Outside The Council Chambers
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"Anakin," Obi-Wan greeted him warmly, though there was a hint of concern in his voice. "Where were you last night? I tried contacting you, but you didn't respond."Anakin's heart skipped a beat at Obi-Wan's question, his mind racing for a plausible explanation. He couldn't bear to tell his mentor the truth-that he had spent the night with Padmé, haunted by memories of their lost love."I was... out," Anakin replied evasively, his voice tinged with discomfort. "Dealing with some personal matters."Obi-Wan frowned, sensing the tension in Anakin's voice. He knew that there was more to the story than Anakin was letting on, but he also knew better than to push his apprentice too hard.
I see," Obi-Wan said softly, though his eyes betrayed his concern. "Is everything alright, Anakin? You seem... troubled."Anakin's temper flared at Obi-Wan's persistence, the simmering anger bubbling to the surface like a volcano on the verge of eruption. "Everything is fine, Obi-Wan," he snapped, his voice sharp with irritation. "Just... leave it alone."Obi-Wan recoiled at Anakin's outburst, his hurt and confusion evident in his expression. He had only been trying to help, to offer support to his troubled apprentice, and yet Anakin's reaction cut him to the core."Anakin," Obi-Wan began, his voice tinged with disappointment, "I'm only trying to-"But before he could finish his sentence, Anakin turned and stormed off, his footsteps echoing loudly in the empty corridor. Obi-Wan watched him go, a sense of helplessness washing over him like a wave crashing against the shore.As he stood alone in the dimly lit hallway, Obi-Wan couldn't help but wonder what had caused Anakin to lash out with such anger and aggression. And as his thoughts turned to Ahsoka Tano, who had recently left the Jedi Order, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Anakin's outburst than met the eye.