Padawan Lost ~ AU (1st Installment of the Padawan Series)

Chapter 11

When I arrived back to our hut, it was almost sundown, our scheduled departure. I didn't want to leave; I wanted to convince Ahsoka she needed to come back. She has to come back. Master Kenobi and Skywalker were waiting for me.

"By the looks of that, I'm guessing it didn't go well." Master Skywalker said. I pursed my lips and hung my head.

"You should talk to her, you are her old master."

"She wants to protect her tribe. It's a loyalty thing."

"Isn't she loyal to the Republic?" He shrugged.

"Shili is under Republic control, but that doesn't mean every citizen appeals and abides by our every wish. And it certainly doesn't mean they like our control."

"We have to leave. This matter can be addressed in front of the council."

"No," Anakin snapped.

"I'm going to stay here." I blurted out. Both stopped arguing with each other and looked at me surprised. I pursed my lips.

"What?" Master Skywalker said.

"I am going to stay with my tribe. I'm Togruta, too. She can't defend Shili alone. I need to help her."

"No, I'm not letting you do that." Master Kenobi cut in.

"I'm sorry. I have to stay with my people. They need me."

"No, what am I supposed to tell the Council?" He asked, outraged.

"Tell them I am staying to monitor any activity from the Separatists. That isn't lying. That's partially the reason I'm staying anyway. I'm sorry Master, I have to. Alert the Council to Ahsoka's interference with us on Shili and they will send clones to monitor activity. For now, that's what I'm doing. She can't do this alone."

Master Kenobi rubbed his beard, my guess weighing the consequences.

"I agree with the Padawan." Master Skywalker cut in.

Master Kenobi snapped his head in Skywalker's comment. "This isn't rational. You are making a mistake, Padawan. I told you about knowing your place."

"I know. I am thankful for my training with you Master Kenobi, even though it has only lasted a couple days. I will take your lessons with me and I will protect this Republic planet and my tribe. Hopefully, I will come back to you in one piece." I joked. Skywalker laughed but Master wasn't thrilled.

"I have to do this." I added.

"I will notify the Council of your decision. It could mean the end of your role as a Padawan Learner and a Jedi."

"I know, but for my people, for the people of the Republic, I am willing to take that risk." He nodded and Captain Rex came over.

"The ship is ready for our exit off Shili Generals." Skywalker nodded and followed Rex to the ship. Master stayed behind.

"Your journey as a Padawan and Jedi is not over yet. When the Republic dispatches clones to Shili you are coming back to me and you will serve as a Padawan. You will become a Jedi. For now, take care of your people and service the Republic." He paused.

"May the Force be with you," He said and walked off, leaving no room for any comments from me.

"Thank you Master," I said and bowed, even though he was out of earshot.

I watched as the Republic supply transport shot off into the atmosphere. I was here on Shili, alone with only a rogue Jedi as my companion.