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bands-we-love-imagines · 1 month ago

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I See Stars (chapter 2)

Pairing: Anakin Skywalker x reader

Plot: You're an intergalactic astronomer who explores strange galaxies, planets, asteroids and such. You are located on Coruscant, in a building close to the Jedi temple - your work is essential for their missions, so you work closely with the Jedi Order. Your contact person is Mace Windu, first and foremost. You do know some of the other Jedi - only briefly, though. For the most parts, you know them through stories you've heard. When your telescope is facing technical issues while you're observing a strange exoplanet for the Jedi, it seems like someone with special engineering qualities is needed to help keep the mission going...

warnings: none :-)

Chapter 1

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-Chapter 2 | A peace offering-

Whenever you heard the Jedi say they needed to discuss an important matter within the Council, you expected them to make a decision and head out to their mission in a spaceship immediately. Contrary to your assumption your holo-transmitter hasn’t made a single beep since you woke up a while ago. Although you were itching to continue your observations, you decided to stay put and take it easy so you’d be well-rested when Master Windu contacted you.

Your control room called for a clean-up anyways, which you’ve been procrastinating for weeks. Now seemed like a good time for it. You set up your x-ray space sound modifier - a tool that used sonification to translate data from space into sounds. Those sounds had a soothing effect on your mind, which made it easier to focus on tidying up. First step was to get your notes in an order that actually made sense.

“Just don’t throw these out. ‘I wish I were Mustafar away’ is one of my favorites.”

Anakin’s voice sounded through your station, unexpected and loud like a seismic bomb going off. He awkwardly stood at your door, unlike his usual confident self, unsure whether to keep talking or not.

“What, in the galaxy, are you doing here?”

You hoped your emphasis on “you” would show him that he wasn’t exactly welcome, along with the glare you shot him before turning to your clean-up mission.

“Y/N…I understand you don’t want me here. I just…” he went silent and walked towards the power conduit panel of the telescope he helped you fix the other day. “I just need to do a follow-up check on this.” Doubt was written all over your face. “It’s protocol”, he added, which seemed just like a weak excuse for him to show up - unannounced and undesirable. “Whatever. Do what you gotta do”, you muttered. From this point on, only your familiar, beloved space sounds filled the room - and maybe a hint of awkward tension.

You took a look at the notes in your hands. On top of them all was the “Mustafar away” one Anakin had referred to before. You cursed yourself silently for finding it adorable that he had memorized some of them.

I should actually get mad at him for just reading my notes without permission.

“Uhm.” Anakin’s voice sounded through the room, uncertainty resonating in his voice. “I noticed that your holo-transmitter had seen better days, and I managed to get hold of a new model.” He got up from checking on the panel and walked towards you to place said item on the desk. “The one I brought actually stopped working, but I could get it up and running again by using spare parts from your old transmitter.” Although he still felt vulnerable, he tried a small smile on you. You sighed, almost tempted to reciprocate. His gestures genuinely moved you. It was obvious what he was trying to do.

“I don’t know, Anakin. Then I’d have to endure your company even longer”, you responded, half-jokingly. “I mean…I could take my stuff and get it done elsewhere. No biggie”, he said, and there was not an ounce of insincerity in his voice. Unfortunately that made it especially hard for you to dismiss him. You didn’t want to keep him around in your space solely to avoid feeling bad for him, though.

Anakin bit his lip, waiting for your decision while trying his best to not fidget.

“That’d be super inconvenient, though, for you to do it someplace else. I need my transmitter in case Master Windu is trying to contact me about the anomaly.” That wasn’t even a lie. Besides, you urgently needed the new model - communicating with your outdated one proved itself to be difficult when someone tried to reach you from a different planet or ship.

“I guess it’d be fine if you stayed.”

Anakin’s face lit up immediately. “I’ll get it done as fast as possible. And don’t worry about not being reachable…I brought mine. Master Windu is in the know.”

With space sounds surrounding you it was easy to continue your clean-up - or so you thought. Your racing thoughts made it impossible to focus on anything. Eventually you found yourself sticking your notes back to where you originally took them from, only to take them back again. By the Force, Y/N, what was that?

Anakin didn't miss your mental blackout, but he was cautious about not pushing your boundaries any further and remained silent. He missed the relaxed, banter-filled atmosphere from yesterday, very well aware his temper was responsible for the now tense situation. He was happy you even allowed him to be here, though - his hopes for you accepting his (indirect) peace offering have been pretty low to basically nonexistent when he'd made his way to the observatory today.

“By the way…”

Anakin looked up from his current project, eager to hear what you had to say to him.

“What was that look Master Kenobi gave you when we arrived at the Jedi Temple yesterday?”

The young Padawan was caught off guard by your question.

How'd she even notice that?

He cleared his throat, nervously running a hand through his hair.

Why is she asking? Because of Obi-Wan…or me?

Anakin would've rather avoided this specific matter completely. He didn't want to squander his chance to recreate your bond, though, so stonewalling was not an option.

“His…he…his senses. He must've sensed that something was off when he saw me and he didn't like whatever he sensed”, Anakin answered. If there was a price for giving the most vague answer in the galaxy, he'd have a pretty good shot at it right now.

“Oh, really?”, you said dryly. “And what exactly did he sense?” Anakin writhed under your expectant stare. “My anger…?”, he uttered, as if he was asking you a question. He glanced at you. “Just out of curiosity…why do you care?” “I don't know, maybe I was hoping it'd explain you lashing out on me later that day.”

In fact, it sort of linked up. Master Kenobi had sensed Anakin’s infatuation with you the second the both of you had made your entrance.

Anakin felt slightly embarrassed and caught. He didn't expect you to confront him like that. His eyes were glued to the transmitter in his hands. At the same time, he was under far too much pressure from the pending mission around the anomaly - and the uncertainty that came with it - to act reasonably.

“It had nothing to do with you. The way Master Windu dismissed me that day was unfair. I…I hate it when they treat me like I can’t be trusted”, he began, his usual defensiveness getting the better of him. You frowned at him. “Anakin. You do know that didn’t happen until after the consultation. So, for all the stars in our galaxy, are you going to tell me what’s going on?”

The fact that you didn’t let go bothered Anakin. His defensiveness made him blind to the real cause of your persistence, though: you cared too much about your bond to let this slide. Like in your astronomical researches, you needed to get to the bottom of this incident to understand where he was coming from.

“I’m not trying to pester you, and I’m not going to judge you, Anakin”, you said calmly, “And I appreciate what you’re doing: showing up here, offering to help me on your own accord…but you need to help me understand.”

Your grounded, non-judgemental approach took Anakin by surprise. Usually his temper tantrums didn’t leave any room for goodwill.

He glanced up at you, his features softening. “You didn’t deserve this. I shouldn’t have treated you like that.” He took a few steps away from you - opening up was easier if he didn’t have to look at you while doing so. “Sometimes the pressure gets to me, and whoever is around me…” He fell silent, hoping you’d piece it together yourself. “Master Kenobi sees right through me. He must have sensed that I would rebel against their decision.”

Being this vulnerable already took the young Padawan beyond his comfort zone - he couldn’t bear telling you the whole truth…yet.

Silence filled the room. Anakin’s words weighed on you. Although he didn’t say much or apologized in a traditional sense, you were aware of how much meaning his openness held.

“You’re right, I didn’t deserve this”, you said, keeping a calm tone. The sound of your voice made Anakin turn towards you a little, just enough to show he listened without looking at you. “And I can see why it’s hard for you. Just…don’t push me away next time. I mean, you can confide in me.” As soon as those last words had left your mouth, you regretted them. It felt like crossing a line. Telling him he could confide in you required a certain level of intimacy you weren’t sure the two of you had reached yet.

“Is that so?”

Anakin faced you now, searching for something in your eyes - a hint of gentleness, maybe. You met his gaze with a small smile on your lips. He raised one eyebrow at you. “I didn’t realize we were this close already.” “You’re unbelievable”, you shot back, but your smile only grew wider. He chuckled, a wave of relief washing over him. Balance in the galaxy had been restored.

“Now, tell me: Is it actually protocol for you to do a follow-up check on my telescope?”

“It is, if you're a responsible Jedi with outstanding engineering skills who takes his assignments seriously.”

“So…no”, you stated.

“You really do love research, don’t you?”, Anakin asked, grinning, “Even in areas beyond science.”

“How else am I supposed to figure you out?”

“Well, I might have some ideas”, he said, teasingly raising his eyebrows at you. His charming demeanor was enough to make your stomach drop and your cheeks grew hot with bashfulness. “You know, like some more of that insightful talking we just did”, he added, acting all innocent.

Your awkward self was comfortable with a certain amount of playful banter, but Anakin’s effortless flirting triggered an emotional glitch. All you could muster was an unintelligible sound.

Anakin enjoyed seeing you this flustered, especially since one flirty implication was all it took. He watched you with adoration as you held up your notes, a nervous chuckle escaping you. “I better get back to my long overdue clean-up. And you better take care of my transmitter.” He raised his hand to his brow, giving you an exaggerated, overly dramatic salute. “Your wish is my command.”

What kind of dynamic is that?

You dismissed your notes, they required too much mental energy right now. Instead you tidied up one of the shelves filled with old technical equipment (which might seem like useless junk to the untrained eye).

Only a few moments ago Anakin was this vulnerable, insecure guy who could hardly get out a word - and now? Now you were back to that playful atmosphere that always made you crumble under his charming advances. Calling yourself a star map with no encryption seemed like an understatement - you practically pointed the way with the exact coordinates. The fact that you made it perfectly obvious how his words affected you left you feeling incredibly embarrassed in his presence. You almost wished back the tension-filled silence from before. At least you knew how to handle that.

And then, as if the galaxy heard your urgent plea for an escape, Anakin’s holographic transmitter started buzzing, and Master Windu appeared.

“Master Windu!”, you greeted him, sounding a little too eager.

“Young Skywalker”, he said, not acknowledging your presence. You shut your mouth close, Anakin smirked at you before bowing to Master Windu. “Yes, Master?” “You are to return as soon as you complete your mission at the observatory to continue your training with Master Kenobi. There are further orders awaiting you at the temple, concerning the anomaly.” “Yes, Master. I will be back as soon as possible.” Master Windu finally addressed you: “As for you, Y/N: Your mission is to observe the anomaly and report any changes to me immediately.” “Of course, Master Windu.” The transmission ended.

You stared at Anakin. “What do you think this means? What’s happening?”

The young Padawan slowly shook his head, trying to process the information. “It sounded like we're preparing for a fight…or at least a possible confrontation.”

Your eyes widened. “A confrontation? With the Sith?”

Anakin kept tinkering at your transmitter, nodding. “If we're lucky enough this time.” “Lucky? That's one way to put it.” He gave you a knowing smile. “There's no need to worry about me, Y/N. This is what I've been training for my whole life.” “Who said I was worried?”, you mumbled, more to yourself than him. His only response was a soft chuckle.

You stole a quick glance at the scattered parts of the holo-transmitters, trying to figure out how long it would take Anakin to fix the new model for you. Although you hated to admit it, you wished he could stay after fulfilling his duty.

“So…I believe I saw some other equipment of yours that could use a little update”, he noted casually, “Want me to check on that when I return from my mission?” “Wow, I didn’t know that fixing stuff was such a priority in Jedi training.” Deep down it was all you yearned for.

“I'll take that as a ‘yes’ then, judging from the way you just beamed with joy.”

Oh.

Apparently you had zero control over your facial expressions.

You cleared your throat, grasping for a cover. “Yeah, I mean…the thought of new equipment excites me.”

Nailed it. Maybe.

Obviously, flirting has never been your biggest strength, but it wasn't just that. You knew Anakin was naturally charming and witty, so you suspected he acted that way around everyone he felt comfortable with.

Just don’t read too much into it. I'm sure it doesn't mean anything. By the Force, don't read too much into it. Keep it cool.

“Alright, Y/N, I fear this is it. Your new transmitter is ready for communicating beyond the realm of the Jedi Temple.” Anakin held said object out to you, seemingly proud of his work. You reached out to take it from him, only to feel his fingers softly brush yours - so subtle it might have been nothing but imagination. Nonetheless it was enough to send an electrifying sensation through your body, leaving you with a warm fuzzy feeling in your stomach.

I see, we're keeping it cool.

“Thank you. Now Master Windu can contact me to pressure me about my observations from anywhere in the galaxy.” A sigh of relief almost escaped you. Seemed like you rediscovered your sense of humor, despite your nervous system still short-circuiting from the unexpected physical touch.

“Anytime, Y/N”, Anakin said, grinning from ear to ear. If there was something you didn't know about Jedi and the Force, it was how attuned they were to other people's emotions. The moment Anakin had softly grazed your fingers, he had felt your strong reaction almost as if it was his own.

He could barely resist teasing you about it now, but at the same time he didn't want to push your boundaries. It was enough for him to know he had this effect on you.

You looked up at the young Padawan, a warm smile on your face. “Well…I hope to hear news about your mission soon. And be careful out there.”

“I will be. Promise. Can't wait for our next repair session.”

He gave you one last smile before he disappeared out the door. The second he was gone, you dropped on your chair, dramatically sliding down to the floor. Nothing ever called for floor time as much as those emotionally charged times.

“By the Force. What is happening to me?”, you groaned with frustration - at the same time you couldn’t ignore a certain giddiness causing butterflies in your stomach.

“It’s not that serious. I'm okay. I'm fine.” Your pounding heart and heated cheeks proved the opposite. You sighed, feeling defeated. “I will be fine.”

Lucky for you, your hyperfocus on observing the Exoplanet kicked in. Now your brain was occupied with receiving and analyzing data more than anything as soon as you had returned to your telescope. You kept referring to the anomaly as ‘Grithly’ (gravitational Sith anomaly). You really needed to come up with a better name, but now was not the time.

Anomalies (even ones not caused by nature, like ‘Grithly’) kept changing their temperature and wavelengths, so the tricky part was to figure out any alarming. abnormalities. You used old data from past anomalies you have monitored yourself. The only issue was that you - due to lack of insights granted from the Jedi Council - missed a few essential factors for this specific kind of observation.

Without hesitation you contacted Master Windu - you had collected enough data to know exactly what information was missing. You only called the Jedi master when fully convinced you had ruled out every other opportunity.

“Master, it is urgent. I have found that Observatory Acklay is lacking crucial data for my research on Grithly…on the anomaly. I'm assuming it is safely stored in the archives at the Temple since the data I need most likely contains detailed information on the Sith.”

“It is evident you have done excellent research, but information of that kind is kept in the archives for a reason. Even amongst the Council it is not a given to have access. Submit your observations to me, I will consult with the Council”, Master Windu decided, an unreadable expression on his face. “We will decide if the data is deemed necessary for our mission and if access should be granted.”

“I understand. Thank you, Master Windu.”

After you transmitted your data you took a deep breath, trying to relax. Sometimes you found it hard to deal with his stern demeanor, especially when you felt confident you'd get what you asked for immediately.

Let's be honest for a second…it bothers me that he wouldn't just trust me on this. Isn't it extremely urgent to keep the research going?

Huh. That thought process seemed familiar.

You sat with the feeling for a while, simultaneously wondering how the Jedi expected you to help them if they didn't grant you access to their archives. After all it was them who needed your help on this anomaly. You didn't work on this for your own personal gain. They should be grateful you figured out what you needed exactly to keep this mission going!

Okay. Maybe you didn’t throw temper tantrums like a certain someone, but they definitely happened inside your head.

Anakin would understand.

…

Kriff. It's gotten this far now? ‘Anakin would understand’??

Sitting around in waiting mode gave you too much time to think and it was driving you crazy.

How long does it take for them to decide this? It's a simple ‘yes' or ‘no’ matter.

Was this the kind of frustration Anakin felt every time the Council showed they didn't fully trust in his abilities?

Before you could dwell on this longer, your holo-transmitter flickered and to your surprise it was not Master Windu contacting you this time.

“Master Kenobi?”

You didn’t mean for your words to give away just how surprised you were, but seeing the Jedi's hologram without any warning left you no chance to hide it.

“Hello there, Y/N. I'm sure you've been anticipating our decision already.”

You were not used to a Jedi master making any kind of friendly exchange before cutting to the chase. All you could muster was an enthusiastic nod. Simultaneously a voice inside your head basically screamed: Obi-Wan Kenobi just contacted you. You!! On your transmitter!

“Fortunately I was able to convince the Council that you can be trusted on this important matter - and that it was urgent to get to the bottom of this anomaly. You will be granted limited access to the archives in the Jedi Temple as soon as you get here.”

Your eyes widened. The fact that Obi-Wan Kenobi trusted you was overwhelming already - but the fact that he convinced the entire Council to grant you access to the archives? That was huge - so huge it left you speechless for a moment.

Master Kenobi only needed to raise one eyebrow - a small display of impatience - to bring you back from your mental glitch.

“Thank you for trusting me, Master Kenobi. You will not be disappointed!”, you responded, “I am making my way to the Jedi Temple immediately.” “Very good, Y/N. One of our temple aids will await you and show you around.”

When Master Kenobi had said one of the temple aids would show you around, you expected someone to meet you at the entrance of the Jedi Temple. Now you've been waiting a while already and you started to doubt anyone was coming.

Great. I guess I have to find my way to the archives on my own, then?

All you knew was how to get to the communication center. One possibility was to head there and ask someone to help you. But…what if, right now at this moment, the Jedi Council consulted in the communication center and you'd burst in, unannounced?

Yepp, definitely not doing that.

Aimlessly wandering through the hallways seemed like your only option now.

You tried your best to make sense of this maze. The communication center was located on the upper levels, so you instinctively headed there first. You figured it'd make sense to keep the archives close to that area.

Some extra time actually came in handy right now. You still needed a little peace and quiet to process what was happening. The fact that the Jedi Council (and specifically Obi-Wan Kenobi) ordered you here to continue your observations was the biggest honor a young astronomer like you could hope for. It was the ultimate appreciation for your skills, and proof of how trustworthy they deemed you. Whatever you made of this opportunity, it had to be something phenomenal. Contrary to your expectations this thought didn't intimidate you, it fueled you. You were determined to show everyone how brilliant you were - starting with trying to orient yourself.

Right now you were on the same level as the communication center.

I hope I won't run into Master Windu or Master Kenobi here.

There were no archives in sight. You wanted to turn around and walk back, but something else caught your attention instead: the faint buzzing of a lightsaber. Curiosity got the better of you and you decided to follow the sound, convincing yourself it might lead you to your destination (it didn't).

You got closer to the room the buzzing came from - quietly, walking on tiptoes, very aware that this wasn’t exactly your place to be. But the slightest possibility of seeing Anakin excited you - more than you were willing to admit to yourself.

Your wish should be granted.

When you got into the dark corridor leading to the training rooms, close enough to peek inside, you spotted him. Your heart skipped a beat.

The electric blue of his lightsaber lit up the room like lightning, his movements radiated with elegance, confidence and something dangerous. The way he spun his lightsaber made every movement he made seem so effortless and…

Hot.

That was easily the hottest thing you had ever witnessed in your life. There was no use in denying it. His lightsaber training unfolded like beautiful choreography in front of your eyes, as if he was dancing with the Force.

Seeing him in his element finally made you accept the fact that you were head over heels for Anakin Skywalker, and in this particular moment he looked more attractive to you than he ever had before.

He paused for a brief moment - a moment so inconspicuous you didn't even notice - before he proceeded with a move that seemed like he had done it a million times; twirling his lightsaber in front and then behind his back while spinning around. Your eyes were glued to him, you couldn't help it. Something about him was magnetic and seemed to draw you in - like the gravitational pull of a star.

Okay, Y/N, seriously. Is this how you're gonna show the Jedi Council how brilliant you are? Snap out of it, by the Force.

The reasonable part of you eventually gained the upper hand, allowing you to tear yourself away from the captivating sight in front of you.

You exhaled, running a hand through your hair, trying to calm down from the high you just experienced.

Is that what going insane feels like?

How much time have you spent in the Jedi Temple already without even finding your destination? You imagined someone at the archives impatiently waiting for you to arrive, growing more and more frustrated with every minute. It seemed harder than before to focus on finding the way - images of Anakin smoothly spinning his lightsaber flashed before your eyes, actually making your head spin.

“Y/N!”

You froze. This couldn’t be happening.

Don't do this to me. Please, I'm begging you.

Anakin caught up to you. Fortunately you weren't suspiciously close to the training rooms anymore. Still…he might have caught you watching him in complete awe. You mentally prepared for the worst, while trying your hardest to act like a normal person.

“Anakin!”

“I didn't know you'd come to the Jedi Temple. What brings you here?”, he asked, smiling at you.

He sounded genuinely surprised, there was not the tiniest teasing glint in his eyes. A wave of relief washed over you - you thought yourself out of danger. It didn’t change how differently you perceived him now, though. The way he stood only inches away, smiling at you in a way that seemed to be specifically crafted for you, being insanely attractive without even trying. You could’ve melted right on the spot…

By the Force, calm down. He is literally just. standing. there. Get it together.

“I'm actually…I'm lost”, you stammered. “I'm supposed to be at the archives, but it's impossible to find anything in here.”

Anakin simply nodded, trying his best to keep his cool. A teasing remark waited at the tip of his tongue - despite your assumptions he had noticed you watching him before. He had sensed your presence before you could even lay eyes on him.

The young Padawan couldn’t believe how oblivious you were to the Jedi's use of the Force. It would've been so easy to catch you off guard right now, right here in the hallways, but he didn't deem it the best timing. Other Jedi might cross your way any moment. He'd have his fun with you and your shining stalker moment, but for now he decided to help you without giving away anything.

“I'll show you, don't worry.”

Anakin walked you through the hallways, further away from the training rooms. “So, how is it that you're allowed in the archives anyway?” “The Council granted me limited access for my research on Grithly”, you told him, shaking your head, “I still can't quite believe it, to be honest.” “That's fantastic, Y/N! I mean, that's huge. They really trust you.” He glanced at you, a grin on his face. “By the way…‘Grithly’?” You pouted, jokingly. “What about it? It's short for ‘gravitational Sith anomaly'. I didn't have time to come up with a better name and now it stuck with me.” “I bet it's eternalized in your stack of notes somewhere.” You chuckled. “That really stuck with you, huh?” “How could it not?”

Thanks to your relaxed conversation (and your infatuation with Anakin reaching a whole new level) you completely forgot to get anxious about doing official research at the archives. It only hit you when you were standing right in front of the entrance.

“Wow. I never thought I'd see this with my own eyes”, you whispered in awe.

“It is pretty impressive, right?”

“It’s intimidating.”

“Only from the outside. I bet you'll just dive right into your research and forget the whole galaxy around you”, Anakin said, confident you'd do an excellent job. You took a deep breath, nodding. He was right. This was your specialty.

“Alright, I'll leave you to it. And hey…” He turned towards you before he left: “Find me after? I have a feeling you'll know the way.”

You stood there, allowing yourself to look after him for a moment. He wanted you to find him after? And what did he mean when he said-

Seriously. Stop.

It was overdue you found the temple aid who would assist you with your research. You entered the archives and immediately fell in love with the interior: walls stacked with data records extended in front of your eyes. They illuminated the hall with a mysterious blue glow, waiting for you to dive into them.

“Ah, the young astronomer.” You turned to where the voice just came from. A lady with a stern expression on her face walked towards you. “I assume some greater force must have prevented you from arriving sooner”, the temple aid said, eyeing you with disapproval.

She must be best friends with Master Windu.

“Hello”, you said with a small bow, “I apologize for that. I hope I didn't inconvenience you.” You tried your best to seem like a respectable individual despite your late arrival. Talking in an elevated manner demanded a lot of mental energy from you, so you were eager to get this over with and use your energy for more important matters.

“Follow me”, the temple aid ordered and led you to a separate area of the big hall, past all those glowing data sets. Your eyes sparkled with excitement. You wondered what secrets lay beneath each of them.

“You are granted access to past studies of anomalies associated with the Sith. We have prepared your current research data which Master Kenobi personally transferred to us.” The lady showed you to the console which contained said data. You definitely needed to thank Master Kenobi personally for this.

Fortunately the surface of the console was similar to the ones in the Acklay Observatory. Besides, you were a quick learner.

The lady removed herself without a word after you thanked her. You took a deep breath, getting familiar with the console in front of you and dove into the sacred, secret world of Sith anomalies. You were on high alert - your senses on high alert and ready to absorb every bit of new information you could find. Your hands glided over the display, smoothly maneuvering the control system, arranging your ‘Grithly’ data so you could keep an eye on it while going through the archive. This was your beautiful choreography.

After comparing several astronomical parameters, you came across a specific shared trait between “your” anomaly and the other Sith anomalies from the archives. It bent space and time in a way that made it almost impossible to track other activities in the affected area - and in this specific case it seemed to impact the exoplanet as a whole. The temperature fluctuations, gravitational changes, and every unnatural occurrence caused by the anomaly served as a distraction from something else - something even more sinister, as you suspected now.

What could it be? What are they hiding?

It seemed like you had reached a dead end. If the anomaly overshadowed what was really happening on the exoplanet's surface, how were you supposed to get to the bottom of it? Either you found a solution, or the Jedi's only chance was to fly a mission to the exoplanet, not knowing what was awaiting them. They would not only face the anomaly, but whatever dark secrets lay beneath it, unprepared and at the mercy of the Sith.

The thought alone made your heart sting. This mission has slowly turned from a simple job to a matter of the heart, now that you've gotten closer to one particular person affected. The additional concern played in your hands, though. Not only were you driven by the urge to prove yourself, help the Jedi Council and uncover the Sith's plans - you wanted to prevent Anakin from as much danger as possible.

Would your abilities suffice, though?

It was hard to tell how much time had passed since you stepped into the cryptic, twisted cosmos of anomalies. Slowly but steady your head started spinning. The mission was emotionally and mentally taxing and it took its toll on you. This was usually the time to take a step back and physically remove yourself from the situation. You weren’t sure if it was alright to leave and come back later, though.

Why is there no official rulebook for strangers who visit the Jedi Temple archives for the first time in their lives and have zero clue on how to act?

You sighed. There was no use in trying to continue right now. You used a system encryption to make sure no one was able to even get a glance at the data sets before you wandered off, back to the entrance, and outside.

The huge windows in the hallways offered a seemingly endless view over the cityscape. When you realized the sun was already setting, it dawned on you for how long you've actually been here. You watched the streams of airspeeders in the distance and completely zoned out to give your mind a well-deserved break.

“There you are. I thought you might have left already.”

And just like that you were forced to return from your mental parallel universe of peace and quiet. At the same time it filled your heart with joy to see Anakin walking towards you, smiling at you in this very…Anakin way.

“Why would I have left? Just because the sun is already setting and I basically lost track of time?” You meant for your words to sound lighthearted, instead they came out with a certain sense of heaviness. To hide your overwhelm you added: “I mean…I'm a little tired from all the hard work.”

Anakin stood next to you, the golden beams of the setting sun bathing him in a warm light and little specks of light dancing in his blue eyes. For a moment you forgot why you were here or why you felt exhausted. Warmth was spreading through your body, and it didn't stem from the sun shining on your face.

“Are you sure that's all?”, he asked, carefully eyeing you. Although he was very aware of how his presence affected you, he could still feel the underlying heaviness of whatever was going on with you. Now didn't seem like the time to bask in the joy of your reaction, but it definitely moved him.

Telling him the truth - that you felt stuck - seemed like a huge step. What good would it do to admit your struggles to him? This was your field of expertise. The Jedi trusted in your abilities to find out what the Sith were hiding. Feeling lost weighed on you, but saying it out loud would make it more…real.

“Do you remember when you told me I could confide in you? The same is true for you, Y/N. Whatever it is, I am here for-”

“Anakin. Y/N.”

Both of you were startled by the calm, but firm voice calling you.

Master Kenobi.

He seemed to have appeared out of nowhere.

“Master Kenobi”, you greeted him, making a small bow. He nodded at you, then threw an undefinable look at his Padawan.

“I came down here to inquire whether the archives have helped your research so far?”

The way he phrased his question actually allowed you to give a comprehensive report of the situation without mentioning your struggles. You broke the complex data down into easily digestible information. With talking about your recent discoveries came a positive side-effect: You gained a different perspective on all the effort you put into your work today. You realized how far you have come, even if you felt stuck in this moment.

Since your findings made the seriousness of the anomaly situation even clearer, the mood slightly shifted. Master Kenobi listened to you with unease, Anakin tensed up. No one said it out loud, but the Jedi were clearly alarmed.

Master Kenobi decided not to mention his concerns - he didn't deem it necessary. This was a matter for the Council. Instead he focused on your progress: “You have really outdone yourself today, Y/N. The Council will be pleased to hear that we have moved a lot closer to uncovering the Sith's intentions.”

“Thank you, Master. For your trust and granting me access to the archives.” “Your insights are a great contribution to this mission, Y/N.” He gave you a reassuring pat on your shoulder. “And I know that Master Windu agrees with me.”

Adding this information was a kind thing to do and proved the impression you've always had of Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Your conversation seemed to be based on a more equal footing now, which was reflected in the fact that you didn’t feel so sheepish around him anymore - and less…smitten. There might have been a different reason behind your change of emotions, though.

Said “reason” had been standing next to you awfully quiet, but observing your interaction carefully.

“You will have continued access to the archives as long as your research calls for it. I will report everything to the Council”, Master Kenobi stated. He turned to Anakin. “I know you have been training hard all day. I am proud of your efforts, Anakin. It's best for you to rest now and ration your energy.” “Thank you, Master”, the young Padawan responded, glowing with pride that he had been praised in your presence.

Master Kenobi said his goodbyes to follow his own words with deeds and report to the Council.

Anakin and you, however, stayed put.

“You’re…incredible. You know that, right?”

Receiving praise and approval from Obi-Wan Kenobi was one thing - but Anakin telling you that you were incredible? That hit differently. After all your hard work it felt so good to hear those words from him.

“I mean it”, he continued, “The way you figured all that out…you're here for the first time and instead of feeling intimidated, you just dive right into it and make those amazing discoveries?”

He shook his head, as if he couldn't quite believe it. “Seriously. Every time I think I got you figured out, you do something that surprises me even more.”

By the Force, get it together.

Anakin didn't mean to get so close to the edge. But he was eager to prove that your connection ran deeper than it ever could with anyone else - especially after you received praise from Master Kenobi. Although he was proud on your behalf, he wanted you to know that he was the one really seeing you - not only your scientific contributions, but you. How you had become more to him than an ally on a mission.

Anakin’s sincere admiration for your abilities and your essence sent that familiar warm sensation through your body. The way he nervously scratched the back of his neck with a chuckle right now caught your attention, though. Him looking flustered was a rare sight.

“Thank you, Anakin”, you said sheepishly, cheeks flushed, “I'm flattered.”

Returning some of the praise seemed to be the only right response. Part of you longed to tell him how you had witnessed his hard work (aka his stunning lightsaber training) yourself - a step you were not willing to take yet, though. You decided to stick to a more neutral approach, a little overwhelmed with the emotionally charged situation. “It sounded like you have worked hard as well, though, considering Master Kenobi’s words about your training from before.”

As soon as those words left your mouth, it was like you'd given Anakin an unofficial cue - a cue to finally address something that's been sitting in the back of his mind all day. His usual teasing grin spread across his face. He leaned against the wall, arms crossed. “Oh. Right. About that…” “About what?”, you asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

Anakin bit his lip, hardly able to contain himself. “Say, did you know how well my senses are actually trained by now?” “Pretty well, I guess?”

You didn’t quite follow what was going on. Did you miss something? What was that smug look on his face for?

Anakin pushed himself off the wall, taking two steps closer to you. He didn't care anymore about being out in the hallways, he couldn't wait any longer to confront you.

“You really can't tell where I'm going with this?”

By now he was only inches away from you. He supported himself against the wall with one hand before he leant in a little closer.

Him being so dangerously close made you weak in the knees, unable to form a sentence. All you could do was stare at him in anticipation while your mind was racing.

Why is he being like this?!

“Did you actually think I wouldn't notice your presence back there?”

That's all it took.

Your eyes widened.

The realization came crashing down on you like a wave.

Anakin watched you as your inner emotional chaos unfolded - and he sensed all of it.

“Listen, I…uh, I got lost in this maze while looking for the archives, and I just happened to…I didn't want to interrupt your training, so I left without saying a word. It's not like I stalked you, or anything.”

The way your face heated up didn't exactly help your case. Anakin being in your personal space along with the revelation of him knowing was too much to handle.

“Is that so? I mean, you just brought up the word ‘stalking’…”

His response made you feel even more embarrassed - though that was hardly possible. Maybe it would be for the best to not say a word ever again. For the rest of my life, preferably.

You were perfectly capable of finding other ways to reveal yourself, though. All you meant to do was avoid looking at Anakin - instead your eyes flicked to the lightsaber clipped to his belt.

“Oh. So, that's what's on your mind right now?” He looked around, clicking his tongue. “I fear the hallway isn't the best place to show off my lightsaber skills, though.”

He couldn’t remember ever enjoying an interaction as much as this particular one. In his eyes you were the most adorable you had ever been now.

Although he wished you would just admit your feelings, part of him was scared, too. Maybe the reason he found it so easy to confront you despite his fear was him doubting you'd actually be genuine this time.

“Alright, you win.”

Anakin raised his eyebrows in surprise.

“I mean…you know. I know you know. And now you know that I know that you know. Or something like that.”

“Is that all?”

“What else do you want me to say?”

He smirked at you. “You’re not getting away that easily.” Just in this moment his senses picked up the presence from one of the temple aids. Although he had decided to throw caution to the wind before, he suddenly became painfully aware of how obvious he's been around you - right in the middle of the hallway.

Meanwhile, your research and all the struggles that came with it seemed so far away, like a different galaxy in the universe. Anakin had successfully taken your mind off things.

In fact, your mind seemed to not cooperate much at all since he had gotten closer to you. To your surprise he took a few steps back now, glancing back at the entrance of the archives.

You heaved a sigh of relief. Any more of his flirting and you would've randomly combusted.

“I'm afraid this is not the best place and time for our…conversation.” “Right. Yeah, that's too bad”, you agreed, acting all innocent. Anakin grinned at you, enjoying the sarcasm in your voice.

“I think it's actually time for me to get back home. I'm beyond exhausted.” The sun had set and it's gotten dark outside. There was absolutely no way you'd get anything else done tonight…not with all this emotional turmoil. Besides, it was the perfect opportunity to escape his interrogation.

Or so you thought.

Anakin saw right through you and your escape plan. He casually suggested: “I could take you. It's dark outside and I'm sure you'd love to get home as quickly as possible.”

He wasn't joking when he said you'd not get away that easily.

How were you supposed to respond to his offer? No thanks, I'd rather get away from you so I don't accidentally admit how incredibly sexy I think you are?

“I thought you were supposed to rest and ration your energy?” “Taking you home doesn’t exactly call for a lot of action. Unless…” He went quiet, his ‘I love making you feel incredibly flustered with my subtle flirty hints’ look in his eyes.

“Can you just take me and not say another word?”, you asked, half-jokingly, half-serious.

“I can do that. Don't worry, I'll behave.”

That you didn’t buy for a second. But getting home quickly sounded too good to deny it - so you gave in and accepted his offer.

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