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Falling Upwards

Summary:

Prequel to my fic Living Sideways, telling how Anakin became Mando'ade

Notes:

Okay, so I wasn't planning on writing more. But I kept having inspiration. So, I wrote a couple chapters. I have an outline and a reasonable idea of how long this'll be. I can do it. As such, I decided to post it, see what you guys think. I'm also doing this in a different way than Setting Life Straight, a wonderful story that was inspired by Living Sideways. There may be some similarities, but I do not want to steal from them nor tell the exact same story. I try to give credit where it is due whenever possible, so I may borrow an element or two, but will let you guys know.
Anyway, enjoy!

Chapter 1: The Mission

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Anakin was excited. 

“Finally, we actually get to see some action!” He ran out of the cockpit, ready to move after a long ship ride. 

“Patience, Padawan.” Obi-Wan chided him, though with a wry smile. “You know all missions are important.” 

Anakin immediately halted, not wanting to jeopardise being left on the ship (last time wasn’t his fault, but he had to be careful, anyway.) “Yes, Master.” 

“Now, help me oversee the supplies. We have to make sure everything gets delivered to the troops before we get to our mission.” 

Never let it be said that his Jedi teacher didn’t know how to simultaneously take the excitement out of their mission and make him impatient, all while teasing Anakin. Sighing, Anakin went to the cargo hold to help double-check the manifest. 

Once everything was accounted for, they were on their way. At least they were going to meet General Arvor and his troops. Anakin had never seen actual soldiers before, outside of his trip to Coruscant from Tatooine. Tatooine was controlled by the Hutts, so most fighting over it was done far away from his former owner and mostly done by third parties for various specific goals. If not for Jedi Master Qui-Gon following the Living Force to find him, he might have still been there. He hoped the soldiers had good stories. 

They arrived after a fifteen-minute ride. The General greeted them warmly, relief in his features. 

“You must be the Jedi.” 

“Obi-Wan Kenobi.” His Jedi Master confirmed. “And this is my Padawan, Anakin.” 

Anakin gave a respectful nod before looking around. Technically, he could get away with it, as Obi-Wan had instructed him to learn as much as he could about the base. It looked similar to what the classes on warfare had discussed, with a standard layout. But it was all still interesting. Anakin noted the colours on the tents, individualising them, the flags, and marking the base as a defense outpost. 

“The datachips, especially, will reduce casualties tenfold.” The General was saying. Anakin remembered a small box that Obi-Wan insisted on carrying himself. If it was that important of information, Anakin could see why Obi-Wan had been so fussy about it. 

“I am happy to hear that.” His Jedi Master said cheerfully (or, at least, as cheerful as he lets himself be.) “It will certainly make our part in this mission go more smoothly.” 

Perhaps noticing Anakin’s fidgeting, he was shooed away to explore while the General and Obi-Wan continued their discussion. They would get Anakin up to speed when needed. Not that he would be doing that much. This was his first mission outside of peaceful diplomacy and negotiations within the Republic planets. As such, he would be kept with the refugees they were moving to a safer planet. 

Until that part happened, Anakin could badger and explore to his heart’s content. 

*** 

Hours later, Obi-Wan tracked down his wayward Padawan. Anakin had been having bursts of energy that had been driving Obi-Wan up the wall recently and no amount of meditation worked with his young charge. So, Obi-Wan had tried directing that energy away from whining and towards situational awareness. He had more success than disappointment with it, but sometimes letting the boy go off on his own was a necessity.  

Still, Obi-Wan was proud of how well Anakin had conducted himself so far. He had matured much in the four years of training and Obi-Wan could only imagine how much more Anakin would improve in the years to come. 

“There you are, Padawan.” He greeted the boy, who was happily eating with a group of soldiers, no doubt interested in their lives. Anakin had always had a way with people from all levels and was interested in them in a way he had seldom seen elsewhere. Anakin popped up from his seat and, waving to the men he had no doubt charmed guilelessly, walked over to him. 

“Sorry, Master. I was learning about how the standard day goes here, what kind of training the soldiers go through, the defenses...” Anakin was quite happy as he babbled on to Obi-Wan's patient ears. He had to keep a careful balance of tuning out and listening. It always hurt his heart that the Jedi were forced into war. They were peacekeepers, not soldiers, but sometimes that line felt blurred. This mission was a good example of that. 

“And Ferrs said that he’s going to show me a few moves before we go tomorrow!” Anakin finished. 

“It is wise to learn different points of view. Different styles of fighting are one way to do so.” Obi-Wan stated neutrally. He wanted nothing more than to hide Anakin far from the dangers of war, but this was the safest mission he could arrange now that his Padawan was old enough. The constant war between the Republic, Siths, and the Mandalorians had forever altered how the Jedi were raised. He couldn’t help but wonder how a world without it would be. 

Master Qui-Gon always scolded him to live in the present, not in a fantasy. 

Sighing, Obi-Wan lightly touched Anakin’s back, leading him to their temporary quarters. 

*** 

The next day, Anakin woke before his Jedi Master, energised for the day. He dressed quickly and, leaving a note, left the shared quarters. The sun was starting to rise fully into the sky and the base was already bustling. He diverted to the meal tent, wanting a full stomach before sparring. The tent, obviously flush with the new supplies they delivered, had delicious scents wafting through the doors as he entered. He got into the rapidly expanding line and quickly got some delicious eggs, toast, and cheese. 

Leaving the tent, he found Arnes and Ferrs sitting together. He quickly joined them, excited for the spar. They chatted more about what the soldiers had seen on their campaigns, what he had seen on his missions, and the comparisons between their General and his Jedi Master. They were kind, patiently listening to his complaining of boredom and then joking about the boredom they faced in between work. From their stories, it seemed that war, like their missions, had a lot of “hurry up and wait” involved. 

They finished their meals and went to another tent, this one dedicated to sparring matches. There were several cordoned areas, some of which were already occupied. Ferrs directed him to an empty one and told him to stretch. 

The two watched him, no doubt wanting to have an idea of how hard to go on him. He was still just a Padawan, after all. He gave them the same curtesy as they stretched. They were in their undershirts and standard uniform pants and combat boots. All that was needed was to slip on their armor and they would be ready to deal with the worst. The men were well-muscled in a way that made Obi-Wan look slim, but were also able to stretch as far as the human body would allow without the Force. 

After stretching, Arnes and Ferrs debated who would go first. Eventually, it was agreed that they would show Anakin a few moves on each other before they would move on to him. They went through a few moves, demonstrating what to do each time. Anakin copied what they did quickly, only needing a few corrections. After a half-hour of such practice, they decided to test Anakin against Arnes. 

The idea of going easy on Anakin was quickly discarded, as he was able to counter their easier moves without issue. Arnes adjusted easily and moved onto a more medium level of difficulty. Here, Anakin’s advantage disappeared. They managed to come to a draw. 

“Not bad, kid.” Ferrs stated as he handed a towel to them. “If you ever get tired being a Jedi, you’d make a good soldier.” 

Anakin was both happy and filled with shame. On one hand, he was far beyond any ability he could have imagined on Tatooine. The idea of fighting in any situation had been discouraged for slaves, after all. And he had advanced fairly well in skill from his time in the Temple. On the other, he was supposed to become a Jedi, not a soldier. Jedi were peacekeepers that fought when diplomacy and compromise was not an option. Still, he was gracious, thanking them for teaching him and claiming the need to check on his Jedi Master. 

Finding him having morning tea and a small morning meal, Anakin sat and they discussed the plans concerning the removal and relocation of the refugees. 

“And we’re down a pilot, unfortunately. The man has apparently come down with a local virus. He’s gotten treatment, but has to wait it out.” Obi-Wan gave Anakin a look, clearly waiting. 

Anakin, knowing where the conversation was going, rose to the bait. “I’ll be happy to pilot a ship.” 

“I thought you would. You’ll be piloting the rear guard.” Anakin couldn’t help but be excited at the news. There wouldn’t be any refugees on the ship, so he could get a little fancy without Obi-Wan scolding him and the rear guard was an important position, ensuring that everyone made it safely. 

“Thank you!” Anakin couldn’t help but smile. His Jedi Master was truly wonderful sometimes. 

A pulse of contentment came through their bond. “Just make sure not to tax the poor ship too much. It’ll be one of the older models and might not handle every maneuver you’ll be tempted to perform in between doing our jobs.” His tone was dry, despite the teasing nature in the bond. “Now, we have an hour until we head out and you are behind on your meditation.” 

“But Master!” 

“Meditation, my young Padawan.” 

And so, they meditated. 

*** 

Obi-Wan wasn’t kidding about the ship being older. It was only a year or two away from decommissioning to Anakin’s eyes. Either that or a total refit, if the pilot was attached to it. It would be expensive, though, given the state of the hull. 

Still, provided the engine was decent, he could do a few tricks. He’d have to get a look while the few supplies were put on. 

After being let on, he traverses the layout, noting that the inside was at least nicer than the outside. While not shiny and new, the ship could probably last another three years, provided the hull didn’t take too much damage. Finally reaching the engine room, he found it to be about equal to the rest of the inside. If he had time, he would probably offer to do a few upgrades after they were done. The owner probably wouldn’t mind and Obi-Wan would want to stay a few days to ensure everyone was settled. 

Suddenly, his comm rang. 

“Anakin, we’ve just received a report that enemy ships have been spotted in this sector, so our timetable’s been moved up. We’re heading out in the next five minutes.” Obi-Wan's voice came through, no doubt too busy for visual. 

“Alright. I’m headed to the cockpit and ready to go when you are.” Anakin began moving swiftly, knowing how fast they would need to move. Obi-Wan hated dealing with excitement on missions and this could potentially lead to some. He would complain about it later. 

“Maybe I should join you.” His Jedi Master sounded worried. 

“I’ll be fine. Besides, it’ll take longer and you know I’m the better pilot.” He wheedled, knowing that he wouldn’t get to do any fun tricks if Obi-Wan was with him. 

“If you’re sure...” 

“I am, we don’t want to risk it with enemy ships.” He knew that would clench the decision. Obi-Wan would want to get out of there soon and was willing to listen to logic. 

“Fine. Are you ready?” Success! 

“In the cockpit, ship is ready...” Anakin quickly ran through the flight check, thankful for standardised nav controls. As he trailed off, the ship was lifted into the air, ready to follow the others. 

“Then we’re heading out.” 

“See you on the other side.” With that, Anakin closed the comm. He carefully watched, making sure his ship was the last to leave. Things were going boringly perfect. At least Obi-Wan couldn’t joke about him causing grey hairs this time. 

So, of course that was the moment things went wrong. At first, Anakin only noticed the ships on his periphery, but they were moving in quickly. He moved to get a better look and, if needed, distract enough to get the other ships more time. 

As he pulled away, he sent a message, letting the remaining ships know to hurry. He was able to get a good look and recognised the new ships as being in far better shape than his own before the first weapon discharged. It was easy enough to avoid and he began evasive maneuvers. 

His ship didn’t have much in the way of weapons, much to his frustration, but he managed to get a few shots in whenever it looked like the enemy ships were getting a bit too close to the still exiting refugee ships. Fortunately, he was able to keep all eyes on him. 

Unfortunately, he managed to keep all weapons focused on him. 

He had to pull out the fancy flying that Obi-Wan liked to chide him for in order to avoid some of the shots. He sighed as he just barely avoided a hit to the engine. He swan-dived and turned in order to check on the refugee ships. The last one was entering hyperspace. Now all he had to do was enter hyperspace, himself. 

Having set the coordinates, he was about to enter hyperspace when he was pulled into a tractor beam. 

“Come on.” He growled. Since he wasn’t getting away, he had to be careful. “Okay, this is just like training back at the temple. Think back to class. Your ship is being boarded by the enemy, you’re alone, and you need to not get caught.” There were a few ways to go about it. 

He could face them head on, but he was only a Padawan, no back-up. A quick way to die, the teacher would say. He could play predator and prey, lead them on a merry chase, letting them think they were the predator until he sneak-attacked. Again, Padawan, no back-up. 

Sighing, he looked up, hoping to think of a better plan. As it was, he had already set the computers to wipe. He had the coordinates memorised and could plot out the trip manually. He just needed to get a ship that wasn’t being tracted into the enemy. That meant stealing an enemy ship. Which meant that he needed to sneak out. And the ship was a model popular with smugglers. 

He reached out with the Force, hoping to get a nudge in the right direction. The Force obliged, and he opened a nearby fake wall, the seam nearly invisible. There wasn’t much room, but his youth came in handy and he was able to side-crawl through the ship. At thirteen, he had begun having growth spurts, but had not yet filled out in equal measure. This not only gave him breathing room, but allowed him to move pretty far and more quietly as he heard the ship be boarded. 

He froze at the sounds of the enemy. He vaguely recognised the language. They were Mandalorian. 

Just kriffing great... 

It was definitely a good thing he hadn’t faced them head on. Although it definitely made the chances of getting a ship out from under them a lot harder. He’d heard stories. Unless the Jedi that faced the Mandos managed to retreat or kill them, they usually didn’t come back. He could have sworn at that. Why did he insist he would be fine on his own? 

He moved slowly and quietly, being careful of making sound. Suddenly, a feeling that could only be a hint from the Force struck him. He quietly jumped, catching onto a shelf and lying on it just as the wall opened. He held his breath as they looked around, trying to will the Force to have them ignore him. The Force seemed to be on his side as they didn’t look up. 

He held his breath as he waited for them to leave. Their armour prevented them from exploring too much, as the bulk from it was too wide for the warriors to travel like he did. Still, it seemed like they were letting others know. No doubt he wouldn’t get far with this route anymore. Which meant that he would have to risk traveling the main ship soon. 

Finally, they left, though without closing the wall. And the shelf he was on was on the side he had just walked past. 

Kriff. 

He waited a few minutes, wanting to be sure they had gone. Hearing no sounds for that time, he leapt down, hoping to move quickly. 

Which is why he upset to find himself wrenched out of the wall and dragged by two Mandos down the hall. One of them said something that sounded like swearing. 

He was eventually let go of in front of a blue and silver coloured armoured Mando. Figuring he had nothing to lose at this point, he focused on the Force, activated his lightsaber, and attacked. 

He had the advantage of a small surprise and managed to steal one of their blasters, which they seemed hesitant to use. He had seen them fired, but had not done so himself. So, he kept that as a backup. He focused on redirecting their few shots, which were set to stun, he noted. Whether that was due to underestimating him or their morals concerning the young, he wasn’t sure, but it gave him a security that he had the advantage, using the lethal force of a lightsaber. 

Growing up on Tatooine taught him to be used to death. Slaves often died at the whims of the Tato and he had lost many friends for very simple reasons, lacking food or infections from punishment, that sort of thing. His own mother had been taken away due to illness and Watto not wanting to pay the expense for medicine. 

Whether that meant he was able to take a life was to be tested. He lunged, trying to get strikes in. But whatever their armour was made out of wasn’t affected by his lightsaber.

They tried to grab him; one was pulling out a hypo. He pulled back, deciding to minimise risk by instead focusing on redirecting the blaster shots they were forced to make, not being able to get close to him. Suddenly, he was thankful the Jedi trained the Padawans to use their sabers in various situations, one-handed, blinded, upside-down, etc. As such, he redirected the shots with his dominant hand and held the blaster in his other. He shot, unsure which setting it was on. 

The shot went wide. Just kriffing great. 

He had to shoot again, redirecting had only worked twice. It seemed whatever their armour was made out of also prevented blaster shots from harming them, but Anakin had gotten the two who first grabbed him with the stun blast to weak points in their armour. However, there was still the white and blue armour. 

So, he focused the Force onto the shot. It aimed true, going straight for the man. 

The relief he felt was the last thing he knew before the room went dark. 

*** 

Obi-Wan watched with a small thread anxiety. Being in the first ship, he knew that if anything happened to their end destination, he needed to be able to coordinate and take action. Fortunately, the planet was ready to receive them, with land cleared for a new settlement and no enemy in sight. 

Which brought the anxiety back to the forefront. After all, they had to speed up their schedule. While they weren’t sure how far away the ships were, he had to assume that, until they were told otherwise, the ships were not close. 

He watched and confirmed each ship arrived safely and with the report of no issue. This continued for about an hour. 

Two-thirds of the ships arrived with the same report. It was going smoothly. Given his and Anakin’s usual luck, he was worried. There should have been some small issue by now. If there wasn’t, there would be a big issue. 

His fears were confirmed with a new report. The newest ship had received a message to hurry due to a concern about an approaching ship. Obi-Wan wanted to curse. He had no doubt it was one of enemy ships from the report. But he couldn’t do anything. He had to wait to ensure everyone arrived. The more ships that arrived, the less chance of people getting hurt. Anakin was the better pilot. There was a reason Obi-Wan let him be the rear-guard. He could keep the ships distracted and on him and Obi-Wan will strangle his Padawan for putting himself in such danger. He knew he should have protested stronger about the Senate mandate concerning the acceptable age of Jedi on higher risk missions. 

More ships came, the reports mentioning the message, the rear guard ensuring they had time, and arriving safely. He felt a sliver of hope grow as they were receiving the last few ships. The last in line before Anakin’s arrived with the same message. Obi-Wan held his breath, waiting. 

Five minutes passed. Obi-Wan was sure Anakin wanted to get a few shots in. 

Fifteen minutes passed. He was planning on making Anakin study up on statistics concerning risky maneuvers and write an essay on why they should be employed only as a last resort. 

A half-hour passed. The refugees touched down on planet and he arranged with the captain to return to the original planet. 

He waited as they took off. The ride through hyperspace wasn’t long, as they only moved from the edge of Republic space to the next sector, creating for a buffer and allowing the defense base greater control. 

They arrived to empty space. Perhaps Anakin had to abandon ship and used an escape pod down to the base. He messaged the base, wanting an update. 

He went cold as he heard “The enemy ships shot a few blasts our way, but were repelled. We haven’t heard anything from the Centurion, though. We believe it to be captured.” 

Whether is next action was performing foolish hope or needing to confirm his suspicion’s, only Obi-Wan knew. He tugged on the mental bond. It took everything he had not to cry as he felt no response. 

Notes:

So, couple things:
I wanted to show hints of how being at constant war with the Sith and Mandalorian Empires would affect the Republic. I figured by now they had a mostly smoothed out system, with Generals that weren't set up for failure like the Jedi were. In doing so, the Jedi were able to maintain the peacekeeper vibe by focusing on more diplomatic missions, while also still aiding the military. I was thinking of them acting as an individual branch of the military, sent in for undercover work, info collecting, etc. So, that would cause for the Jedi to be taught some theory on warfare and how to deal with those kinds of missions.

I stated in Living Sideways that Anakin and Obi-Wan got separated on a slightly more risky missions. Like the military, I imagine the Jedi had a system in place for training Padawans depending on age, experience, and so on (which can lead to conflicts with the Senate when their goals aren't completely aligned.) I had also kept the exact mission vague, but stated that it had to do with getting Anakin more used to the dangerous missions. I figured a relief mission near the border was a reasonable mission.

Anakin's backstory is also different in this as a result of a different political situation, and, as a result, has not met Padme. This will affect the series later, as I do intend to pair them together. We will get hints to the differences as the story goes. I also intend to include some of my worldbuilding from my series Tian and Garto. If you have any further questions, let me know in the comments!