Anakin's Dilemma: The Impact of Obi-Wan's Intervention on Mustafar

Imagine a scenario where Obi-Wan Kenobi saves Anakin Skywalker from the volcanic clifftops of Mustafar. This intervention would have far-reaching implications, not only for the individuals involved but for the broader conflict between the Jedi and the Sith. However, such a turn of events would place Anakin and Obi-Wan on the run, leaving Padmé Amidala and their twin children without any protections. This article delves into the challenges and consequences of Obi-Wan saving Anakin on Mustafar, exploring the complex dynamics between the characters and the wider implications for the Star Wars saga.

The Escalation of the Crisis

Given the volatile nature of the situation, if Obi-Wan had succeeded in saving Anakin, the duo would have had to flee from both Palpatine and Yoda. Their departure would leave Padmé and the twins vulnerable, as there would be no immediate protectors. The potential for both Palpatine and Yoda to mount a desperate search for Anakin and Obi-Wan would be significant, thus exacerbating the existing tensions and risking the fate of Padmé and the newborns.

The Challenging Psychological State of Anakin

During the tumultuous moments leading up to their duel on Mustafar, Anakin was deeply unsettled. After his mother’s tragic death, he had placed the blame squarely on Obi-Wan, leading to profound emotional turmoil. In the throes of his grief and frustration, Obi-Wan would face an almost insurmountable challenge in attempting to reason with Anakin. Convincing the injured Anakin to turn back to the light would be extremely difficult, considering his scorching hatred and desperation to control his destiny.

The Impossibility of Convincing Anakin

Suppose Obi-Wan successfully talked Anakin away from the ledge, restoring a semblance of control to the conversation. Despite this achievement, the situation had already spiraled out of their control. The sale of Anakin’s soul to Palpatine, in exchange for the prospect of saving Padmé, was fundamentally hollow. Palpatine, despite his claims, had limited control over life and death, beyond the raw act of killing.

For Anakin, the weight of his choices and the impending destruction of the Jedi Order and the Republic would loom large. To navigate this complex moral and ethical sea, Anakin would need to:

Surrender to his former master: A grudging admission to his old master would be necessary to face the Jedi Council and the Senate. Anakin would need to acknowledge his duplicity with Palpatine and agree to return. Face the Senate: Anakin would have to provide damning testimony against Palpatine and his cronies, including his orders to the clone army to massacre the Jedi and the younglings. Accept the Inevitability: While Obi-Wan could attempt to convince Anakin to do these things, reality would paint a grim picture. Anakin’s belief that he would be responsible for Padmé’s death if he returned would make any attempt to save him futile.

The Unlikely Alliance Betrayed

In a chess game, when both players are unable to make a move without being placed in check, it leads to a stalemate. This was the situation Anakin found himself in. No matter how skilled Obi-Wan was as a negotiator, he could not overlook the shattered temple and the ruined Jedi Order. Even if Anakin did agree to cooperate, he would still fear that Padmé would die, and he would bear the guilt.

Obi-Wan faced an insurmountable conundrum. Either he would have to kill or capture Anakin, which would make it difficult for anyone to believe his version of events. With no one to turn to for support, the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith continued, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Conclusion: Anakin's Only Salvation

In this dire and complex scenario, the only way to save Anakin would be for Anakin to save himself. The path forward for Obi-Wan and Anakin was fraught with peril and moral ambiguity. It underscored the deep divide between good and evil within the Force, making the ultimate decision rest solely on Anakin's actions and choices.