Disclaimer: I don't own Star Wars.

Summary: Anakin's musings display his lack of good judgment, just prior to his "fight" with Mace Windu. (RotS timeline, implied Anakin/Padmé.)

What would you do to save the one you love?

Would you give your life? Would you leave your home? Would you sell your soul? Would you throw away everything you've ever known, in order to have an oppertunity to save that person's livelihood? That person...who makes you complete. Who makes you who you are. Without them, does any of the rest of it matter? Without that person...is life truly worth living?

These questions and more flood through my mind, as I pace restlessly around the Council's chambers. Chancellor Palpatine's words also haunt me. I can't save her without him...but would she really want me to, with his help? I'm feeling indecisive...and Obi-Wan...what will he think? Does it really matter what he thinks? I can't go to him for help...he's not even here! He's on fucking Utapau!

Can I save her? Physically, I believe it's possible. But mentally...am I strong enough? I've gone against the Council's orders before...Master Windu specifically, in fact. But, never like this. This would lead to direct confrontation...It would mean leaving the order NOW. I told her I'm ready, but...

Can I throw everything away from her?

She told me not to, I hadn't really thought of it as a danger, until now. She wouldn't want me to now, either, I know...

But can I not?

If I can save her...

Do I really matter? Does the Council really matter? Does any of this really matter?

I don't know...

But, my choice has been made. If I can save her, my own fate is no contest. I have no fate, without her. It's no longer a choice. It's simply what needs to be done. Whatever outcome this may lead to...at least I'll have my beloved. If I could leave the order for her yesterday, I can do it now too. If I could give my life for her at nine, I can most certainly give my soul today.

If I can save her...my dear, dear Padmé...If I can save you, the price is irrelivent.

After all, the dark side can't be too bad, right?

Samuel Johnson