Veritas: A Star Wars Story

by jsaint34

Summary:

Hello There! Welcome to an Alternate universe Star Wars story. You'll see all our favorite characters but with multiple deviations as this is not set in the main timeline, call it a Legends story if you will. Even a What If.

Notes:

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Lucasfilm/Disney and I am purely writing this for fun and no profit will be made. This story is just a fun little what if that has been bouncing around my head for a while and something I wanted to get out.

Chapter 1: The Rising Darkness

The Galactic Republic has maintained peace for centuries.  From the time of the High Republic under Chancellor Lina Soh to the current Supreme Chancellor Finis Valorum, with the aid of the Jedi Order, wars have been nonexistent.  But as with all times of peace, an upheaval is inevitable.  In the darkest recesses of Coruscant, rebellion is being fomented.  Dozens of systems are evaluating the possibility of breaking away and forming their own separate Government.  Should Civil War ensue, this proud Republic that has stood for thousands of years could crumble.  In the old industrial district of the city planet, two men, clothed in robes of the darkest black, finalize their plans.

“You have done well, Lord Sidious.  The Republic is hanging on a thin thread of distrust.  When the Trade Federation begins the Blockade of Naboo, the young queen will be forced to take action.  As will the Jedi Knights.”

“We have clouded their ability to use the Force for many years now, Lord Plaguies.  Lord Maul will be more than a match for any Jedi sent to resolve the Blockade.”

“Indeed he will.  But we must not lose sight of our true goal.  The Sith must once again rise and rule the Galaxy.  Only the Chosen One can help us complete that task.”

“Master, I still question this course of action.  The Dark Side is all powerful, but what if the prophecy should be our undoing.  While meeting with the Supreme Chancellor, and the Jedi Council, I learned this chosen one is destined to destroy the Sith and bring balance to the Force.  A balance you and I have upset while influencing it to create life, and defy death.”

“You dare….dare to question me?!  It is through my power manipulating the Force to serve my desires that the Chosen one was created!  Perhaps you need another lesson as to who is the true Master here!”

Plaguies let forth a burst of violent Force lightning that catapulted Sidious across his Master’s chambers, his body striking the wall hard.  Sidious struggled to his feet, only to hear the snap-hiss of a lightsaber igniting and the heat of the plasma suddenly at his neck.

“You were a nothing when I found you!  A child who had murdered his own family.  I chose you as my Apprentice because of your raw power I sensed through the Dark Side.  If you question me again, I will rectify that decision.  Am I understood?”

“Yes, Master.”

“Good, I must depart for a meeting with the Banking Clan.  And you have a session in the Senate to attend.”

Sidious slowly turned to walk away, his anger evident at the treatment his Master just doled out.  But he knew that it was only a matter of time before he would become the Master.  Maul was a vibroblade, a tool to be used to strike at the Jedi while the Chosen One would be the very face of the Empire Sidious intended to create.  He knew that his time was coming soon.  He just had to be patient. 

Despite the dark machinations of the two Sith Lords, all hope was not lost.  In the brightest centers of Coruscant, the Jedi Order still held to their oath of protecting Peace and Justice in the Galaxy.  Through the Corridors of the Temple, Grand Master Yoda accompanies Qui-Gon Jinn while once again broaching the subject they have discussed many a time.

“Ready for a place on the Council you are Qui-Gon.  All Masters are in agreement.  Join us you will?”

“Master Yoda, we’ve been over this before.  A seat on the Council would hinder my ability to commune with the Living Force.  I am grateful that the Council feels I am ready, but the politics and pandering one must entertain in the Senate with a seat on the Council will not benefit me.  And I still have much to teach Obi-Wan.”

“Dooku held a spot on the Council, while your Master he was.  A seat prevents you not from training Padawan Kenobi.”

“With all due respect Master, I must decline the offer.  Now if you will excuse me…”

“A moment, Master Qui-Gon.  Chancellor Valorum your presence has requested.  Spoken with the Council he has.”

“What for?  This seems to be unusual.”

“To the Chancellor you must go.  With your Padawan, will you find the answers you seek.”

As Qui-Gon departed, Mace Windu approached the venerable Grand Master.  He had a feeling on what Qui-Gon’s answer would be but needed to hear it from Yoda, himself.

“Master Jinn declined the offer, didn’t he?”

“Expected this was.  Too much like Dooku he sometimes is.”

“Perhaps, but the Force is guiding Qui-Gon the way it should.  Did you tell him of the mission?”

“Chancellor Valorum insisted that the danger he would reveal.”

Hours later the Chancellor received confirmation of the Trade Federation commencing a blockade of Naboo.  He had gone to Yoda with the rumor of a strong possibility of this and wanted the assistance of the Jedi in preventing a conflict.  But a conflict occurred nonetheless which led Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Jar-Jar, the Queen and her retinue on a desperate escape route. 

Meanwhile back on Coruscant, Sidious was lost in his meditations on the Chosen One when the Force showed him another vision.  Initially the boy born of no father, the Skywalker was to be turned to the Dark Side.  His destiny foretold of this.  But something stronger shattered that vision.  A young girl, currently not more than three years old was to become the Chosen One’s apprentice.  Like the boy, she too was a vergence in the Force.  One that could tip the scales back to the Light, threatening all of the Sith plans to rule the Galaxy. 

Sidious knew then that he could not allow this to happen.  The girl was strong in the Force.  He could feel her strength across the distance from her home-world of Shili.  Though he would take no joy in ending her life as a Force sensitive, he knew what had to be done.  Before he departed Coruscant, he resumed his guise as Senator Sheev Palpatine of Naboo. 

“Chancellor Valorum…surely there must be some word on Queen Amidala and the Blockade of Naboo?”

“Senator Palpatine, the only reports we have received are that blockade is in full effect.  There has been no sign of the Naboo cruiser that got past the blockade.  We must trust that the Jedi and the Force will guide her and protect her.”

“Of course; Chancellor.  You will let me know when some news reaches the Senate?”

“You will be the first to know.  Trust in that.”

Palpatine gave a slight bow to Valorum before departing for his ship.  He knew all of this already as Nute Gunray had reported this to him just hours ago.  He could sense that the Jedi were on their way to Tatooine, bringing the boy that much closer to his grasp.  But first his sights were set on Shili.  At  the same time as Palpatine was departing, Jedi Master Plo Koon was also bound for Shili.  He was just about to enter the transport when Master Windu called for him.

“Master Koon, Yoda has called for an emergency session of the Council.  We are all required to be there.”

“My mission to Shili?”

“Is being assigned to another Jedi.  Yoda knows the importance of your mission, but you are needed.”

Plo turned and followed Mace.  It had been reported by Master Shaak Ti, that another Togruta, strong in the Force was detected.  As he was the current Master to seek out new recruits, Plo Koon took this mission seriously and hoped that the Jedi taking his position would place the same level of importance on the assignment.  But Palpatine was already on his way and parsecs ahead. 

Upon touching down on the planet, the Senator was taken directly to Corvala, the Capital City. 

“Greetings Governor, I am Senator Sheev Palpatine of Naboo.  I’ve been sent here on a diplomatic mission by the Supreme Chancellor.”

“Welcome to Shili, Senator.  What mission is this?  We were not informed.”

“That is unfortunate.  The Chancellor wants to increase exports from your planet to more of the Expansion Regions.  His goal is to see if your native flora can survive in other climates, like those of Tatooine.”

“I’m not sure what our native grass could do for Tatooine.  A desert climate is it not…”

“Indeed, but should the rumors of systems leaving the Republic prove to be accurate, the loyal systems that remain will be more valuable.  I…”

A loud roar interrupted Palpatine’s train of thought and he couldn’t help but turn towards the window of the Governor’s office.  He was immediately intrigued and discretely reached out with his abilities to sense what kind of creature could have made such a cacophony.

“I see you have taken notice of our indigenous fauna.  That is the roar of an Akul, Senator.  They are vicious four legged beasts with powerful jaws.”

Another roar shook the building, causing Palpatine to shudder though Sidious was intrigued.  This was an action the Governor took immediate notice of.

“Do not fear Senator.  We are quite safe from the Akul here.  I have no doubts that this one is being hunted.”

“By how many?

“From the sound of the roar, this is a full grown Akul.  A whole tribe will be needed to take the beast down.”

“I would very much like to witness this hunt, if I may?”

“Please Senator, it is not a place for a visiting dignitary such as yourself.  We should really return to our discussion…”

Palpatine turned back and shot the man an intimidating glare.  With just a slight manipulation of the man’s mind, Sidious had what he wanted.

“I said I would very much like to witness this hunt.  You will take me to it.”

“Yes…of course Senator.”

The Governor led Palpatine out of the building and to a waiting speeder.  Following the instructions, the pilot tracked the sounds of the roars and battle cries of the Togruta hunters.  On their journey, Palpatine sensed something off about the entire situation.  He could feel a strong presence in the Force near the battle.  As they drew closer he knew who it was.  The girl he had sensed, she had somehow gotten to the hunting grounds. 

She was watching even as an older Togruta female desperately tried to pull her away from the sight.  Palpatine could sense the family bond and knew that the older woman was her mother. 

“Ahsoka!  You should not be out here!”

“Want to watch hunt!  Watch Papa!”

Palpatine sensed unquestionable bravery in the girl, knowing that if she had been found by the Jedi before him, she would undoubtedly be recruited into their ranks.  While he was there to keep that from occurring given how it would affect his corruption of the Chosen One, he sensed something else in her.  He wasn’t sure what it was until the girl screamed in horror as the Togruta male he presumed was her father was shaken violently by the Akul, just before his limp body was thrown through a tree.  In mere seconds, Sidious smiled in sadistic glee as he realized what the emotion was.  Pure, raw anger.  What happened next had him immediately changing his plans.

The girl, Ahsoka he now knew she was called, let out another scream and levitated a small rock.  He could tell she didn’t even know she was doing it as the rock flew across the distance and struck the Akul in the eye.  Enraged, the beast charged forward, throwing Togruta hunters every way it could.  Palpatine sensed that the girl and her mother were about to die and chose to step in at that moment. 

With a deft wave of his hand, the Akul was halted in its charge and lifted into the air.  While he hadn’t intended to use his abilities to assist, Sidious knew he could make the girl stronger, teach her the ways of the Force.  And with the Togruta’s aggressive nature he knew she would make a fine Sith.  One even more powerful than Maul.  With a flick of his wrist, Sidious snapped the neck of the Akul before throwing it to the ground.  Once he was calm, he turned to the mother and daughter, huddling behind him.

“Are you all right?”

“Yes…Jedi?  You saved us.”

“I only did what was necessary.  I regret having to kill the Akul even though I did it to protect you.”

“Jedi!”

Ahsoka’s mother continued to exult in joy that she was meeting a Jedi.  Palpatine could have corrected her but decided to let the lie build.  He could still feel anger emanating from Ahsoka and wanted to encourage her to embrace it.  With a bit of the Dark Side, he showed the girl the Akul dead, along with her mother.  While Ahsoka was having these visions, Palpatine force choked the older Togruta woman until she stopped breathing. 

Another scream of rage broke from the orphaned girl’s throat as Palpatine kneeled down in front of her.  Tears were streaming down her cheeks as he lifted her up.

“Come little one, the Akul is dead, I’m sorry the beast killed your family, but you will be safe with me.”

Ahsoka sniffled as she wiped the tears from her eyes.  She didn’t know this man, but his face was kind and he had a voice she felt she could trust.  As he held his hand out, she hesitantly took it.  In that same moment, she felt no fear, just a calm acceptance and a trust that he would protect her and teach her. 

“Ahsoka, I will take care of you.  You feel a power inside of you that you don’t yet understand but in time you will.  I will teach you to use that power and you will grow strong, powerful.  One day you will be a Sith Lady, and the Galaxy will fall at your feet.  But for now, sleep.”

As Palpatine boarded his ship for the return to Coruscant, he sensed that Queen Amidala and the Jedi were also making for the City planet.  He could now put his plans into motion to overthrow Plaguies and Valorum at the same time. 

Just an hour later, the Jedi that had taken Master Koon’s assignment arrived on Shili to find that there was no one strong enough in the Force to be taken to the temple.  He only felt that the planet was devoid of the Force so he reported back to the Council that the mission was unsuccessful.

The events that followed went almost exactly as Palpatine had planned.  He was elected Supreme Chancellor of the Republic, Naboo had been liberated from the Trade Federation, the only wrinkle being that Maul died in battle with the Padawan Kenobi.  Even that was not as much of a setback as he’d thought it would be.

“We are indebted to you for your bravery, Obi-Wan Kenobi.  And you young Skywalker, we shall watch your career with great interest.”

Chapter 2: Training

It has now been three years since Qui-Gon’s death at the hands of the Sith Lord and the Jedi were no closer to unraveling the mysterious attacker’s identity.  For a time, they believed that the Master had been killed just as Obi-Wan was focusing on his promise.  Now twelve years old, Anakin was progressing remarkably fast through his studies.  The boy had a voracious appetite for learning.  But he still carried a wild streak that came from his time as a slave on Tatooine.  On more than one occasion Obi-Wan has had to track down his wayward Padawan. 

“Good Morning Master Kenobi.”

“Master Windu.  I wish it was.”

“Troubles with your Apprentice again?”

“When are there not?  I’m sorry, I speak out of turn.”

“He is young Obi-Wan.  Still adjusting to life in the wider Galaxy.”

“I know this, Master, and yet…”

Mace shot Obi-Wan an inquisitive look as they continued to walk the halls of the temple.  Mace has had this very same conversation with the young Master before, but was always there to provide an ear and encouragement.

“…sometimes I still feel that you and Master Yoda were correct in refusing to train the boy.  Anakin is head strong and sometimes too sure of himself.”

“And does he remind you of anyone in that regard?”

Obi-Wan stopped walking and looked over to the Korun Master.  Mace just arched an eyebrow as he waited for Obi-Wan to make the connection.

“Me?  Master Windu…I was never…”

“Qui-Gon once described you the very same way.”

“He did?  I…when?”

“After your mission on Mandalore to protect Duchess Satine Kryze.  Or have you forgotten how you contemplated leaving the Jedi behind for her?”

“I haven’t forgotten, Master.  But Satine pushed me back to the right path.”

“And you learned from that experience.  We are all tempted at times Obi-Wan.  Anakin will learn and grow as you did.  Trust in the Force.”

Obi-Wan chuckled under his breath as Mace walked away.  He would always trust in the Force, but he still had a Padawan to take to training.  Upon arriving at Anakin’s quarters, Obi-Wan pressed the button that activated the room’s internal communications.  After five minutes with no answer, he pressed the button again.  When there was still no answer, he entered the override code and found the room empty.

“Anakin, where in the blazes have you gotten off to now?”

Quickly, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and reached out with his feelings. Yoda had once told him to follow those feelings and find his apprentice he would.  Naturally Obi-Wan’s first thoughts went to the hangar bay.  Anakin could always be found tinkering with something there.  But the boy’s Force signature was further distant, at the Temple but not inside the Temple.  With a moment of clarity the young Jedi Knight realized exactly where Anakin had gone this time.

Kenobi quickly rushed to the exterior of the Temple and immediately looked up.  While the spire was high enough that he could barely see the top, he didn’t need his eyes to tell him who was up there.  No doubt Anakin was about to try something both incredibly foolish and dangerous at the same time.

In seconds, the Padawan was plummeting towards the ground, and Obi-Wan could feel his student trying to use the Force to slow his descent.  It wasn’t working and Anakin kept picking up speed.  With another quick decision, the knight ran to where he was directly under Anakin’s path and expended his own energy through the Force.  Reaching both hands up, he slowed the fall until Anakin landed gracefully.  Trying to catch his breath, Kenobi spoke.

“W-why do you insist on doing this Anakin?  Do you never realize just how much danger you put yourself in?”

“I’m sorry Master; I’ve just been studying the holocrons like you told me.  I found an interesting one recorded by Bell Zettifar.  His Master trained him to catch himself with the Force.  I just thought…”

“Jedi Zettifar only succeeded finally by having someone else to focus on Anakin.  He had another life to save.  When he accomplished what Master Greatstorm had been trying to teach him, it was not through a fool-hardy attempt at risking his own life.  As you have done repeatedly.”

“I’m truly sorry Master, it won’t happen again.”

Obi-Wan heard and even accepted Anakin’s apology but knew in his heart that this incident was certainly going to occur another time.  But at the moment they had another training session to attend.  Little did they realize that across the distance another had been following this exercise through the Force.

Three years ago Palpatine had told Anakin that we would watch your career with great interest.  That had been the honest truth.  Darth Plaguies had expected to be alive to do so.  He had taught his apprentice everything he knew only for Sidious to kill him in his sleep. He died never knowing about the Togruta.  Now Sidious still believed that Anakin could be used to destroy the Jedi, but he kept going back to the Togruta girl he had brought with him.  Even when Dooku became his new Apprentice, Palpatine devoted all of his time not running the Republic to Ahsoka. 

In those three short years, he had made her forget all about her parents and he quickly became the father figure she needed.  He cared for her, treated her like a daughter and began training her in the ways of the Force.  At six years old, Ahsoka was already showing that she would master her innate abilities in the years to come.  With Palpatine encouraging her and stoking her anger, she quickly learned what took Jedi younglings years to accomplish.

One night while Palpatine was at a late emergency session arguing against the split in the Republic, a division he was pushing for as Sidious, Ahsoka was asleep in her room in the Industrial district.  This area of Coruscant was filled with dangers unknown to many and though she had a security droid watching over her, it did not detect the two poisonous creatures making their way towards the sleeping child. 

One of her first lessons from Palpatine had been that the Force would always be with her.  The Dark Side especially.  It served up a warning as the creatures crawled up on her bed, venom dripping from their mouths. Ahsoka immediately sat up, feeling the danger and Force pushed the creatures so hard that they flew across the room, splattering against the wall in a mess of blood and gore.  Just for good measure to make sure she was safe, the young Togruta slipped out of her bed and walked over to where the creatures’ remains had fallen to the floor.  Grabbing a book, she repeatedly smashed them as hard as her young arms could until she fell to the floor, exhausted. 

In the Senate Rotunda, Palpatine felt the anger rolling off of his young charge in waves.  It made him smile discretely to himself as he made his way back to his office.  Though the hour was late, he had a visitor in Senator Bail Organa.

“Good evening Chancellor.”

“Senator Organa, to what do I owe this pleasure?”

“The emergency session and your remarks were well thought out.  But I feel I must inform you that Viceroy Gunray has been secretly meeting with the Banking Clan and the Techno-Union representatives.”

“Has he?  I must say Senator, I wish I was surprised by this but the Federation’s blockade of my home planet three years ago was unprecedented and dare I say…foolish.  How the Courts went against my judgement I will never understand.”

“I share that sentiment, Chancellor.  And as I do not wish to keep you later than the already late hour, we must be both cautious and prepared.  If a division in the Republic does occur, the Guard may not be enough to prevent a war.”

“I thank you for bringing these concerns to my attention.  Rest assured Bail, negotiation is still our best option to preserve the Republic.”

“I agree.”

“Then if there is nothing else…”

“There actually is one last thing.  I have heard that Queen Amidala’s term will be ending.”

“Yes…The Queen of Naboo serves two terms.  This concerns you?”

“It gives me hope.  Perhaps she would consider a position in the Senate.”

“That would bring me hope as well Senator.  But the Queen must make her own decision.  I believe time will tell.”

“Yes…well, good night Chancellor.”

“Good night to you as well, Senator.”

With Bail’s departure, Palpatine summoned his private shuttle to take him to the Industrial District.  The Chancellor’s shuttle could not be seen entering the area without the Senate Guards.  Upon arriving he made for Ahsoka’s room where he found the girl awake and practicing her telekinesis with the parasites she had killed.

“It is late, young one.  You have a busy day tomorrow.  As the Senate will not be in session, I will be devoting my entire day to you.”

“Creatures attacked me.  I used the powers you showed me to kill them.”

“Were you afraid my child?”

“No Papa.  Fear means weakness. I want to be strong like you.”

“And as you grow older, you will be, Ahsoka.  Come now, off to bed.  Tomorrow we will continue your training in the Force.”

Palpatine tucked Ahsoka back into her bed before ordering the security droid to dispose of the parasites’ remains.  When he could sense that she was fast asleep, he retired to his own quarters to delve into his holocrons.  Ahsoka was indeed strong in the Force, and though she was only seven, he knew it was time.  Tomorrow he would give her a taste of his own power.  He had told her of the way the Jedi use the Force and would show her the Dark Side.  Tomorrow she would commit to it.  Embrace it. 

His most recent vision showed him her destiny.  The future revealed it all.  Two red lightsabers, her golden eyes lit up by her blades.  She would bring devastation to her home-world and it would start with the death of an Akul. 

Her name would be Darth…

Notes:

I've currently read the first two books in the High Republic series, Light of the Jedi and the Rising Storm. So far they remind of the New Jedi Order series from years back which are now classified as part of the Legends universe. As such I included two Jedi from the series and tried to avoid spoilers for those who haven't read them. Loden Greatstorm and Bell Zettifar are a Master and his Padawan. Still debating the outline of this. Let me know what ya'll think. Continue or scrap the idea? Feedback is gold for a writer.

Chapter 3: Becoming Sith

Ahsoka woke the next morning, feeling stronger than the day before.  This was all due to Palpatine inserting himself into her mind as she slept.  He had spent the night in meditation while projecting his will into the girl’s essence.  Her soul corrupted to darkness as had been his goal.  Though her closet contained various outfits of many assorted bright colors that he had provided for her, she ultimately went for anything in the darker shades.  After using the refresher in her room Ahsoka dressed in a dark gray pair of pants and a black shirt.  Today was to be her first true lesson in the Dark Side and she wanted to impress.

Her soul and thoughts burned with anticipation as she purposefully strode towards Palpatine’s quarters.  When she arrived, Ahsoka debated internally with her entrance.  She thought about using the door controls but paused and then raised her hand to knock.  Before she could take either action, his voice spoke from the other side, as if sensing her nervousness.

“Enter.”

The door slid open and Ahsoka stepped through, not sure of what to expect.  In the center of the room Palpatine was levitating, and his eyes were closed in what seemed to be intense meditation.  But images can often be deceptive.  Palpatine was in meditation but still observing everything that was going on around him.  He even felt Ahsoka’s actions before he slowly opened both eyes.

Ahsoka was kneeling before him, her head bowed in the deepest sign of respect.  He sensed her thoughts; she was waiting for him to speak in acknowledgment.  He was slightly amused, yet at the same time impressed.  Her actions already had her treating him as her Master.

“Good Morning; my child.  You slept well?”

“Yes, Father.  I’m ready to learn the ways of the Force.”

“I have already begun teaching you to use your power.  Today we begin your true lessons.  Today I will show you the true nature of the Force, and the power of the Dark Side.”

Palpatine’s words and voice were encapsulated with a sinister edge as his footsteps fell almost silently across the floor.  It had not gone unnoticed that Ahsoka referred to him as father instead of papa.  This showed him that she was going to take her training seriously.  When he gently placed a hand on her shoulder, she slowly looked up, a malevolent smile just barely tugging at the corners of her lips.

“I want to know everything.  Especially if it will give me the revenge I desire against Shili for abandoning me when the Akul killed my family.”

His smile was sadistic as these were the images he planted in her mind three years ago as he killed her mother and continued to place in her head each night as she slept.  Through this, he knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that Ahsoka had truly committed herself to the way of the Sith.

“And you shall have what you desire.  But first, tell me what you remember of my teachings on the Jedi.”

“The Jedi use the Force in a pacifistic way.  They preach peace over emotion, knowledge over ignorance.  They ignore their passions believing serenity is the key to true mastery of the Force.  Their very code reveals their weakness.”

“Excellent, my child.  For what is life without passion?  To deny one’s emotions is to deny that life is a gift from the Force.  Without emotion we are no better than droids.  Your first lesson in the Dark Side begins now.”

Ahsoka intently listened as Palpatine spoke with more than just his words.  Her eyes were focused on him and ignored the rest of her surroundings.  As he connected his thoughts to hers, he was pleased by the sudden although brief flash of gold in her blue eyes.

“Peace is a lie, there is only passion.  Through passion, I gain strength.  Through strength, I gain power.  Through power, I gain victory.  Through victory, my chains will be broken.  The Force shall free me.”

Ahsoka committed those words deep in her memory as Palpatine withdrew from her mind.  He had insisted she learn the Jedi code just so she could see how it was everything the she should despise.  With what she now knew was the Sith Creed, she could feel and see all that life truly had to offer her.  Passion, strength, power, the Dark Side began to truly flow through her body as she realized that with her training she would be able to have whatever she wanted, to live a life in control of her own destiny.  And those who would seek to deny her what she wanted, what she desired, she would take it from them without remorse.

As she stood, her eyes once again flashed gold, her youthful enthusiasm still prevalent, but filled with a new burning passion.  Ahsoka knew she would no longer be weak, her only goal to continue to gain strength.  Above all else, she desired power, and it showed in her words, spoken with malicious intent.

“Father…Master…The way of the Sith is my path.  When the time comes, when my training is complete, I will stand by your side as we destroy the Jedi.”

“You will become a powerful Sith, my daughter. Together we will rule the galaxy.  When I have completed your training and the Jedi are extinct you will stand by my side, not as an apprentice, but an equal.  And one day, you shall call yourself…Empress.”

The laughter that echoed through Palpatine’s quarters rang loud and clear from the two Sith.  The apprentice believed everything her Master had told her, but he knew he had only spoken a partial truth.  Anakin Skywalker was still his ultimate goal.  When the Chosen One fell to the Dark Side he would pit both of them against each other and the victor would be his final and true apprentice. 

Weeks passed as Palpatine imparted his knowledge and teachings to Ahsoka.  He started with simple exercises to help her focus.  Levitation, enhancing her telekinesis which she seemed to take to the most quickly.  She was telekinetically lifting small objects and then heavier and larger items at a rapid pace.  At one point she had multiple books, holocrons and mouse droids orbiting her as she levitated herself three feet above the floor.  The mouse droids beeped their consternation as their wheels could find no ground to roll across.  All of this was met with praise from Palpatine while Dooku watched from the shadows.  One day while Ahsoka was studying a holocron he chose to voice his opinion.

“Master, training her could be dangerous.  Her powers grow exponentially.  What if she decides to use that power against us?”

“Us?  Or do you mean you, Lord Tyranus?”

“Us, my Lord.  The Togruta have always been unpredictable.  What if as she grows and becomes fully powerful in the Dark Side she decides we are expendable?”

“There is no eventuality where that will occur.  I have foreseen her destiny.  Ahsoka Tano is loyal and committed to the Dark Side.  She is effectively my daughter and will go to any lengths I require to bring forth the Sith rule of the Galaxy.”

“And what of the Chosen One?  Do you not still have a grand plan for him as well?”

“Indeed I do.  But that plan ties into my training of Ahsoka.  Should Skywalker not fall to the Dark Side, she will bring about his end.  Either way, the Sith will achieve victory.”

“As you command, Master.”

“Fear not Lord Tyranus, our plans to divide the Republic are proceeding with events you have set in motion?”

“The Trade Federation and Banking Clan are amassing support for the Confederacy of Independent Systems as we speak.  Dozens of systems have pledged their allegiance and more are taking steps daily.”

“As you see then, you are still useful to our long term goals.  And in three years, you will train Ahsoka in the construction and use of a lightsaber.”

“Me, my Lord?”

“You are the finest swordsman in the history of the Jedi Order.  Your skills will help her achieve mastery of the blade far better than I ever could.”

Dooku walked away, feeling his time as a Sith would end sooner than he had thought.  He had a goal in mind to change the Republic but now knowing that he was to train Ahsoka in lightsabers, his doubts began to grow.  He had replaced Maul; even seen the holo of Qui-Gon dying at the hands of his predecessor.  Of course, he had plans of his own, and if Sidious knew of them, his Master didn’t seem to care.

Across the distance in the Jedi Temple; Grand Master Yoda was expelled from his meditations violently.  For the past three years the Jedi had done everything in their power to seek out the returning Sith.  But at every turn they were stymied.  Yoda himself, was the most concerned, as the oldest living Jedi he should have foreseen this.  But he was just now beginning to realize that his and thus every Jedi across the galaxy was having their perception of the Force clouded.  The Dark Side was rising and this time nothing may be able to stop it.  For the first time in his nine hundred years, Yoda felt fear.

Notes:

Even early in this story Palpatine is a self-serving, scheming manipulative jerk . Although he is acting as a loving father figure to Ahsoka, and Dooku is having doubts, he could easily change his plans once again. And Yoda, poor Yoda's abilities clouded by the Dark Side.

Chapter 4: Anakin

At times, every Padawan must meet with another Master and more often than not the Master ends up being one of the twelve on the Council.  The only exception to this in regards to extreme circumstances is Yoda.  As the Grand Master holds the responsibility of working with all the clans of younglings, his time is limited.  Today, Obi-Wan, being the only Knight in decades if not centuries to face a Sith and emerge victorious, is studying all of the holocrons with Master Jocasta Nu, archivist for the Order.   As such, Anakin is accompanying Master Windu to a private meeting with the Chancellor in his office at the Senate Rotunda.

“Is something wrong Padawan Skywalker?”

“No Master…I mean…well…”

“Anakin, relax.  This is common for every Padawan to one day observe the politics of the Republic.  It is a first-hand lesson for the day you reach Knighthood.”

“So all Jedi are expected to play politics with the politicians?”

“A crude if not accurate description.  Obi-Wan’s words?”

“Master Kenobi is not fond of the politicians.  He believes that Jedi business should be left to the Jedi and not interfered with.”

“In many ways he’s not wrong.  While it is wholly necessary for us to work with and abide by the Senate’s rules, first and foremost, the Jedi are keepers of the peace.  There have been times where we put that aside for the good of the galaxy.  For instance, Obi-Wan tells me you’ve studied the holocron of Bell Zettifar.”

“I have Master.  He was a Jedi during the High Republic years.  Some of the Masters in his time referred to it as the Golden Age of the Jedi.”

“I can only say it was a different time, Anakin.  If you want to know more, you should consult with Master Yoda.  He and Master Yarael Poof are all that remain of those years.”

Anakin fell silent as he and Master Windu climbed aboard the transport that would take them to the Senate Rotunda.  In truth, he was less concerned about the politics as he was at being in Supreme Chancellor Palpatine’s presence again.  It has been just over three years since they met and to the Padawan, Palpatine seemed larger than life.  In retrospect, he was slightly uneasy around the man during their first meeting.  He can only hope the feeling doesn’t persist this time.

While the Jedi were making their way towards the Rotunda, Palpatine was in his office discussing the forthcoming meeting with Ahsoka.  Ordinarily she wouldn’t have been anywhere near two Jedi if he could help it, but the Chancellor knew this was a prime opportunity for his Apprentice to see the enemy face to face.  She had been instructed to act as a student observing the workings of the Republic government and refrain from calling him Father or Master in the presence of the Jedi. 

Soon enough, Mas Amedda led Master Windu and Anakin into the office.  It was a brief stop for him as he had a meeting with Senators Organa and Mothma in place of Palpatine.  Ahsoka was sitting off to the side, both Jedi immediately noticing her presence but being interrupted by the Chancellor before either could speak.

“Good Morning Master Windu, Padawan Skywalker.  I have been looking forward to this meeting.”

“Chancellor, I was told this would be a private affair.  This girl…?

“Do not worry about her Master Windu.  She is merely a student on assignment for her class.  My office is reaching out to promising young students to educate them in the laws and customs of the Republic.  It was an initiative put in place by Valorum before me.  Even Queen Amidala attended one of these sessions. Now, shall we get to business?”

“Yes, Chancellor, the Jedi sent me with regards to this rumored growing Separatist Alliance.  We know that the Trade Federation was greatly embarrassed after their failed incursion on Naboo.  Now it seems that they and other systems are becoming more organized.”

“A great concern for all of us, Master Windu.  I have already attempted to establish lines of communication with these potential dissidents.  Even now Vice Chancellor Amedda is discussing more options with Senator Mothma and Senator Organa.  We can hope…”

Ahsoka and Anakin were barely listening to the conversation going on in front of them.  While she was more focused that he, her attention was squarely on the Padawan.  She was studying him; assessing his facial expressions and whatever reaction she could glean of his interest in politics.  She wanted to use her abilities to reach into his mind, but doing so would give away her status as a Sith.  Palpatine had directly warned her against this.

So all she could do was observe with her own perceptions.  The Padawan seemed bored to her.  He kept his eyes focused on everything but the Jedi Master and Chancellor.  Then she felt it, a nudge, almost a tickle in her consciousness.  She was immediately amused that Skywalker was attempting to read her thoughts.  Quickly, she focused on mundane subjects that a student would be thinking of to avoid him probing deeper. 

Anakin once again grew bored.  He had been intrigued by the Togruta girl at first, but a brief look into her mind showed him that she was thinking about history, mathematics, only subjects that he too was learning about the Republic in his Jedi studies.  Then for a moment he put a slight amount of focus on Palpatine, something even Master Windu immediately took notice of.  What Anakin discovered is that the Chancellor didn’t seem to register in the Force at all. 

Master Windu shot a quick glance out of the side of his eye to Anakin in an attempt to discourage the Padawan from delving any deeper.  Mace had also noticed Palpatine’s lack of presence in the Force, but having been in the order for decades now, knew that not every sentient being in the galaxy was Force sensitive.

“Well, it seems our time is up, Master Windu.  I will certainly share your concerns with the Senate as I’m quite sure you will share mine with the Council?”

“You have my word on that, Chancellor.  Good day.  Padawan Skywalker and I will be leaving you to your business.”

As Anakin and Mace departed Palpatine’s office, he quietly turned his gaze to Ahsoka still seated next to him.  He was just about to speak but paused a moment to cast his perceptions far from his office and sensed what he needed to. 

“The Jedi are far from our presence now, my child.  We can speak openly without the possibility of being discovered.”

“The Padawan, I felt him trying to read my thoughts.  Are all Jedi so bold?”

“Bold?  Not the word I would choose.  Misguided perhaps, but Anakin is different.  He questions everything, even a lot of what the Jedi teach him.”

“But he is still a Jedi, Father.  That makes him our enemy?”

“Indeed it does.  He also attempted to use his abilities on me.”

“How could he not know that we are Sith?  How did the Jedi Master not know?”

“Because I have a power far greater than they shall ever possess.  I have been well trained in the Force and can make it appear as if we are nothing more than what they see.  The Dark Side is a pathway to powers the Jedi would deem unnatural.”

“And I will learn to mask my presence in the Force as you did?”

“You will in due time.  But for now, I know you have made your own judgments about Anakin.  Share them with me.”

“He is overconfident, brash.  I sense there is a touch of the Dark Side in him.”

“Very good.  You discovered much about him while suppressing your abilities.  I’m very proud of you.  Anakin came to the Jedi Order with attachments.  He knew his mother and was a slave on Tatooine.  As such he will always be slightly out of step with the requirements of the Jedi.”

“He could be a powerful asset to us, Father.  If we could get him to embrace the Dark Side.”

“An interesting thought Ahsoka, but nothing can be forced upon him.  He feels that he owes the Jedi for freeing him from slavery.  If he was to turn to the Dark Side, he must come to that conclusion on his own.  He will have to learn to see the hypocrisy of the Jedi as he grows.”

Ahsoka was about to speak again when Palpatine had a thought.  The Dark Side showed him a possibility to cement the beginnings of Anakin’s eventual fall but he had to readjust his plan and to do so he would indulge Ahsoka in her idea.

“Father?”

“Your thoughts to bring Anakin to our side have extreme merits, my daughter.  I know just how you can do it.”

“How?  What would make him see the way of the Sith is better than the Jedi path?”

“Become his friend.  Let him confide in you.  I had planned to be a mentor to him, but for now he is far too close to his Master.  Yes…someone closer to his own age as you are would be ideal.”

“You want me to befriend a Jedi?”

“I want you to pretend to be his friend.  Someone he can share his frustrations with.”

While Ahsoka pondered this, Anakin and Mace were back on the transport bound for the Jedi Temple.  Mace was contemplating the meeting with Chancellor but couldn’t help but be distracted by the turbulent thoughts he felt coming from the Padawan.

“What is it, Anakin?”

“I am deeply unsettled, Master Windu.”

“Remember the Code, Skywalker.  There is no emotion, there is peace.”

“I know Master, but there was something about that girl with the Chancellor today.  I tried reading her thoughts…”

“Without her permission, Anakin?  That is not the Jedi way.”

“I know that also Master, but something about her was off.  She didn’t register in the Force, neither did the Chancellor.”

“Now I understand.  And I sensed you trying to get some sort of perception on Palpatine.  Anakin, you are young and naturally curious.  Trust your instincts, they will serve you well.  But although the Force binds the universe together, some people are just a miniscule part of the Unifying Force.  In time, you will learn to see that.”

Anakin was quiet for the rest of the flight.  He remained lost in his thoughts.  He knew that Master Windu was correct in his assessment and one of the wisest Masters on the Council.  But the Padawan couldn’t shake the feeling that Master Qui-Gon would have delved deeper. 

With that in mind, when they arrived back at the Temple, Anakin went to meet with Obi-Wan, but his Master was still with Jocasta Nu.  Whatever they were discussing must be of the utmost importance so he departed for his chambers.  After a quick use of his refresher, Anakin decided to meditate.  As always, he began with the Jedi Code.

“There is no emotion, there is peace.  There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.  There is no passion, there is serenity.  There is no chaos, there is harmony.  There is no death, there is the Force.”

Anakin was so focused on his meditations despite being his least favorite thing to do; he never noticed Obi-Wan entering.  Seeing his student in meditation, Kenobi moved off to his own quarters.  Soon Anakin heard a voice from the past.

“Remember, concentrate on the moment.  Use your instincts.  Feel, don’t think.  May The Force be with you.”

“Master Qui-Gon?”

Notes:

Final quote in italics comes directly from Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace. If I go in to the Mortis arc, not sure yet, it will factor into why Anakin sees Qui-Gon on the planet.

Notes:

Hey guys, so you've read the first chapter which features a what if Palpatine found Ahsoka on Shili instead of Master Plo Koon. I'm not sure if this will go past the first chapter though I do have a rough outline for a multi-chapter fiction. So, if you like what you've read so far, and want to see this continued, drop me kudos or a comment and let me know what ya'll think. Apologies if anyone has written a story like this before but I haven't seen any works where Ahsoka was found by Sidious at 3 years old instead of Plo Koon. Once again none of the characters belong to me and no copyright infringement was intended.