Jedi Dont Dance
Jedi Dont Dance
Obi-Wan entered the quarters he shared with his master after saying goodbye
to Garen and Bant in the
corridor. His first indication that something was wrong was that all the
furniture in the small common room had been pushed back against the walls. The
second was that his master was sitting on the relocated sofa, watching the
door, obviously waiting for him.
Master, is something wrong? the boy asked, looking around the room with
uncertainty.
Weve been given a new assignment. The Council called me into their chambers
while you were still in class.
Obi-Wan was at first glad that he had missed standing
before the Council. Then, he looked around again, noticing the new look of
their common room; the momentary relief melted into a renewed concern and
confusion.
And it involved moving our furniture? He was unsure what one had to do with
the other.
Well, there has been a gap in your education, Padawan.
This mission will require us to attend certain formal functions, and you are
now at the age that you may on occasion be called on to dance.
Qui-Gon noticed the color drain from the young boys
face. He had also seen the expression he wore many times. He braced himself for
the protest.
Dance? You mean with a girl?
Qui-Gon had been dreading this. Xanatos
had been quite eager to entertain the fairer sex too eager in Qui-Gons opinion. Obi-Wan was far
more shy.
While there are many cultures were dancing with members of the same sex is the
custom, this is not one of those. You will be dancing with a girl.
A slow blush crept across the boys previously pasty features, and Qui-Gon felt the boys intense discomfort through their bond.
Master Jedi dont dance, he stated with certainty.
The masters features lifted into a quirky smile.
On occasion, we do Padawan. Now, come
stand in front of me.
Obi-Wan reluctantly stood facing his master in the middle of the now-empty
room.
I will teach you steps by leading. Understand that when it comes time to
actually dance at a function, you will be expected to lead, so I will give you
an opportunity to try that also. These dance steps are significantly easier
than any of the katas you have mastered so you should
catch on very quickly.
Qui-Gon looked straight down at his apprentice who
stood at chest height to him.
Your dance partner will most likely be more your height also, but we will make
do right now.
He smiled and took his apprentices hand in his and placed his other hand on
the boys side. Obi-Wan quickly wrenched out of his masters grip and backed
across the room in a panic.
Master, you didnt say I was actually going to have to touch a girl!
Qui-Gon chuckled to himself. The memory had come from
seven or maybe eight years ago. Where had the years gone? As he watched the
young man his padawan had become, it was hard to
believe he had ever been so awkward. The young man glided across the dance
floor now with great confidence and ease, and truly seemed to be enjoying
himself. In fact, he had been on his feet most of the evening.
Qui-Gon sighed deeply. That probably had more to do
with the Queens three daughters than any deep love of dancing. They hadnt
seemed to be able to keep their hands off the younger Jedi since he and Qui-Gon had arrived. The Jedi master eyed the three pouting
princesses sitting at the head table with them. Due to ceremonial rules, they
were not permitted to participate, making the dance floor a perfect escape for
his shy padawan.
He turned his attention back to the spinning colors and lively melodies of the
ballroom, watching as Obi-Wan expertly swept his partner across the floor,
weaving her effortlessly back and forth through the other dancing couples. His
steps showed the same grace and fluidity he exhibited when performing an advanced
kata or even wielding a saber in combat.
//Padawan, I believe you are showing off. She
might think you are flirting.// he sent with chiding reprimand.
//Not at all Master. Shes more interested
in another gentleman on the dance floor. I notice the change in her emotion
every time we pass him. She may, in fact, be the one flaunting.//
Qui-Gon could sense a hint of embarrassment at being
accused of flirting.
//Padawan, we are guests of the Queen, and it
would be best if you returned to our table.//
//Do I have to?//
//Yes, Padawan, you do. Besides, I do expect you
to perform your katas and spar tomorrow,
no matter how much youre feet are hurting.//
Qui-Gon watched as his padawan
stopped at the edge of the dance floor. He bowed to the young lady he had spent
most the evening entertaining. He pressed a gentle kiss to her hand like a
perfect gentleman and made his way back towards the Queens table. Qui-Gon grinned with amusement as he saw the three princesses
sit up attentively as they watched the young Jedi approach.
//Theyre waiting for me, arent they, Master?//
//Sorry Padawan.//
Lessons
Obi-Wan ran his fingers through lengthening ginger locks as he paced back and
forth in the common room of his quarters. The furniture in the room had been
pushed against the walls giving him ample room to trace his path.
Hes going to be here soon.
Youre a little nervous about this. Relax, came a
light, feminine voice. Youre going to wear a hole in your floor.
Obi-Wan stopped and frowned at her.
Its just that this was such an awkward experience for me with Qui-Gon. I am hoping that it will be better for Anakin. By the
way, thanks for coming.
What am I doing here anyhow?
I thought that having you here, so that hes actually dancing with a girl
Siri laughed.
Glad to be the obligatory girl, came a sarcastic
retort.
Maybe this was a bad idea, Obi-Wan sighed. Youre not helping.
No, you just need to relax
The door hissed open and both occupants turned to face Anakin.
Master Knight Tachi. Anakin bowed respectfully.
Whats going on? The boy looked around suspiciously.
Obi-Wan sighed.
Our next mission is going to require us to attend some formal functions. I
need to teach you how to dance. Ive asked Siri to
help.
Oh, come here Anakin, Siri said, roughly shoving
Obi-Wan to the side. Your master is making this out to be a much bigger deal
than it is.
Anakin approached Siri and stood facing her. To both
knights amazement, he took her hand and with perfect form began to lead her
smoothly through beautiful dance steps. He stopped after some time, a big smile
spread across his face.
My mother taught me, he said shyly, answering the unspoken question. I used
to stand on her feet when I was little. I still remember the steps. She used to
make believe we were in fancy ballrooms, wearing fancy clothes and all that
stuff. It made her happy.
The expression on the young boys face was distant; he was immersed in the past
savoring sweet memories. He finally snapped back to the present and flushed at
noticing both knights staring at him.
Um was that all you wanted Master?
Yes, Anakin, Obi-Wan said gently.
The young boys wistful mood suddenly shifted to barely controlled excitement.
I actually came to see if I could go to the hangar with Garen.
He told me I can help him fix one of the transports hes working on.
Thats fine. Just dont wear out your welcome, Obi-Wan said walking the boy
to the door.
As the door hissed shut behind Anakin again, Obi-Wan heard light, lively music
begin in the back ground. He slowly turned around and raised an eyebrow at Siri, who was standing in the middle of the floor smiling.
I cleared my afternoon because you said I was going to get to dance, and I
expect you to keep that part of the bargain.
Siri, I dont know Obi-Wan began.
Whats wrong? Rumor around the temple says that you dance very well. Afraid
you cant live up to that?
Siri approached him, and he took her hand. He slipped
his hand to her waist and began to lead her with smooth, even steps.
Not bad, she said after a while. Let me lead; Ill teach you something I
learned on my last mission.
The pair quickly switched their roles. Obi-Wan tensed slightly at feeling her
hand come to rest on his side. She altered the steps of the dance and Obi-Wan
quickly picked up the variations.
Nice, he said, switching roles with her again, glad that her hand was once
again resting on his shoulder. Now, Ill show you a move I picked up on Corellia. He quickly twisted her away from him, earning a
carefree giggle, and pulled her back towards himself. Her
body brushed up against his before returning to her position opposite him.
Now, youre showing off, she said teasingly.
No this is showing off, he said as he dipped her back without warning as the
song ended.
Her blonde locks fell away from her face and neck, exposing fair skin. The
lighting of the room glinted off of shining blue eyes. She was beautiful.
The music shifted to slower rhythms and he pulled her up, realizing how closely
he now held her body. He began stroking the soft skin of her hand in gentle
circles. She looked at him and he could see longing in her eyes. He freed his
hand from her grasp, pushing her head to his shoulder as he drew her into his
embrace. He couldnt bear to look into her eyes and more.
He quickly doubted that decision. Her sweet scent teased his senses and her
warm breath on his neck scattered awareness he didnt want throughout his body.
Yet he continued to hold her closely long after the music had ended, swaying
gently.
We cant keep doing this to ourselves. The whisper was painful.
Would one kiss make such a difference? Siri asked,
yearning still evident in her voice.
No, but the ones that would no doubt come after would.
She ran the palms of her hands up his chest and slipped her arms up around his
neck, once again looking into his eyes. He found he couldnt resist her this
time and leaned in, gently pressing his lips to hers. At her acceptance, he
deepened the kiss. He felt her hands run up and down his back. His slipped
further down the curves of her back.
We cant stay here, he said breathlessly, breaking the kiss. His heartbeat was
now pounding in his head.
I dont want to leave you. Where can we go?
Anywhere but here, he said, stepping away from her. I dont trust myself to
stay here with you.
We could spar she offered.
Obi-Wan laughed dryly.
And once again substitute combat for intimacy.
Im sorry, she said, looking to the floor. I should have just gone.
No, he said reaching out to squeeze her hand. I wanted you here. Its not
your fault.
He looked up at her, eyes full of mischief.
I believe you beat me last time. I need a chance to redeem myself.
Not on your life Kenobi, she snorted. Im on a winning streak, she said
with mock arrogance as she made her way towards the door.
"We'll see about that," he said quickly following her out into the
corridor.
Contrasts
The vast ballroom echoed with a cacophony of grand music and lively chatter. The
most prestigious figures of the Republic were gathered. Glorious gowns of rich,
vibrant silks swayed in lively dance; a kaleidoscope of colors swirling to the
music. The sounds lifted to a balcony above where a lone figure stood
overlooking the festivities eyes closed, not watching.
Artillery exploded around him; the thundering concussions threatening to rob
him of all hearing. He wiped the dirt from his face, blinking his eyes to
produce tears in an attempt to rid them of the dust that clouded around. The
air was infused with the smells of charred flesh, perspirationt,
grime, and a hint of sweet bacta. This was the
reality of war.
He coughed several times to clear his lungs before issuing an order to advance.
The troops rallied to his ignited saber, its azure glow a beacon. He knew he was
leading many of them to their deaths, yet they followed with unwavering
loyalty. It was all they knew.
Obi-Wan opened his eyes and tried to purge the images from his mind and instead
focus on the jubilancy of the moment. It was in vain.
How can they celebrate? There is a war going on.
The morbid answer was that the clones were considered as expendable as droids. Few
counted the numbers lost. It was also disconcerting that few seemed to realize
the cost to the Order. Jedi were dying. Hundreds had already been lost good
comrades and friends.
The bright flicker of a familiar Force signature caught his attention and he
looked out over the waves of color, finally catching sight of its owner.
There you are Anakin.
He had been looking for his apprentice all evening. Actually, if he were
honest, all he had needed to do was call through their bond. He hadnt really
looked that hard.
He watched as the younger Jedi wove his partner through the other dancing
couples at a dizzying pace. Anakin was definitely showing off. If he were nice,
hed go rescue the poor girl before his reckless apprentice made her sick or
exhausted her.
He drained the last of his drink and balanced the delicate glass on the narrow
railing of the balcony before starting down the grand marble staircase to the
ballroom floor below. He could see Anakin in the distance making his way to a
corner of the ballroom and followed. Large glass doors decorated with intricate
gold trim led out to a cozy balcony. The glow of urban lighting gave a dim,
soft feel to the secluded spot. The music was not so brash outside, heard only
as a gentle melody.
He should have known. Anakin and the lovely senator from Naboo
had been quite friendly since Anakins mission to protect her. He watched as Anakin
danced closely with her. Obi-Wan felt a twinge of regret as he watched the
metallic, mechanical fingers of Anakin new arm intertwined in the young womans
delicate grasp. There was so much that went wrong that day.
Anakins other hand was gently placed low on the small of her back against her
gold and black brocaded gown too low. She completely captivated Anakins
attention; he didnt even sense his mentor standing mere meters away. Her eyes
were full of adoration, and he returned the gaze with warmth. Obi-Wan knew the
look in her eyes too well. The same emotion in Siris
had brought him so much pain over the years
He watched with alarm as Anakin leaned forward and whispered something in her
ear. She smiled wide, cheekbones rising. His face was close. Was he going to
kiss her? In public? He began to make his way over to
his love struck padawan to say something.
Master Kenobi?
Obi-Wan blinked a couple of times and turned around.
Ive been looking for you. I was wondering if I might have a word with you.
Of course, Chancellor, Obi-Wan said turning to face the leader of the
Republic.
He took one look back over his shoulder. Senator Amidala
had her head resting on Anakins shoulder, held tightly in his embrace. The
couple swayed slowly to the music. He left reluctantly, knowing he would have
to talk to Anakin later.
Celebration
Distant stars speckled the dusk sky over the forest moon of Endor.
The ominous metal sphere that had hovered, finding its protection in orbit, was
gone and now Rebel ships with their whining engines flew in formation through
the skyline. Starbursts of fireworks gave flashes of light through the
darkness, their booming like distant thunder. Indeed the light had pierced the
darkness. The Emperor had fallen and with him a reign of tyranny.
On the moons densely wooded surface, small crackling fires lapped at the cool
evening air, dispersing sparks and sending smoke skyward. Lively music, played on primitive drums and pipes, filled the air.
And there was dancing.
The spectral form of Obi-Wan Kenobi watched from afar as Luke positioned the
armor of Darth Vader on the funeral pyre he had built. The young Jedi extended
the lit torch, touching it to the pyre and stood back as the flames engulfed
what remained of the father he had never known. Anakin had already passed into
the Force, but Obi-Wan knew that Luke needed this finality. Perhaps this young
man alone mourned the Dark Lord. No, no longer the Dark Lord.
Few could really understand what had transpired on the Death Star. A sons
faith and love had brought Anakin back to the Light.
Well done Luke, Obi-Wan whispered. Well done Anakin.
Obi-Wan had twenty long years in exile plus several years in the Force since
his death to come to terms with everything that had happened regarding his
former apprentice; his betrayal, extermination of the Order, and slaughter of innocents.
He still remembered vividly the echoes of anguish, and then sudden oppressive
silence the day Alderaan was destroyed. He had felt
that the friend, the brother he had in Anakin had been lost long ago. Luke had
given him a chance for something he had felt was not possible reconciliation.
He looked up at the evening sky, reaching out through the Force to sense the
jubilation and celebration that extended throughout the many systems
represented by the scattering of stars. The Force was alive and vibrant, and
Obi-Wan reveled in the peace. There was a sense of balance.
He watched as Luke hurried to join his friends, those that had been his
foundation. He deeply embraced his sister. It still seemed to Obi-Wan that Padme herself was standing before him every time he looked
at the princess. Luke then embraced Han, the unlikely hero the Force had thrown
into their paths in a cantina on Tatooine. Rebel
troops and pilots danced with their small, furry allies; a truly unique
species, whose primitive methods had turned the tide of the battle. He chuckled
to himself. The Force did indeed have a sense of humor.
Brooding you are Master Obi-Wan while celebrating you
should be. Obi-Wan looked down, smiling at the small master who had
materialized at his side. Master Yoda raised his ears and looked up. Triumphed
the Light has over the Darkness. Fulfilled his destiny Anakin
has.
I am happy Master. You dont how many times I thought this day would
never come. He paused to look back at those celebrating, furrowing his brows
much as he had in life. They have so much ahead of them. It wont be easy to
rebuild the Republic or the Order.
Theirs the future is. Fought hard for it they have and ready they are, but
celebrate now they should. Earned it they have. The Republic and the Order can
wait.
Obi-Wan saw Luke turn and catch sight of the two specters, offering a wide
smile. At that moment he also sensed a bright presence in the Force as Anakins
form materialized beside Yoda. He looked over. His former apprentice looked
almost exactly as he had the last time Obi-Wan had seen him as Anakin.
Glad you could make it Padawan.
I wouldnt miss it Master.
Luke paused to look at the trio of former Jedi before turning back to his
friends. The festivities showed no sign of slowing. They would most likely go
on all night.
You know you want to Master, Anakin said with a mischievous glimmer in his
eyes.
Want to what Padawan? Obi-Wan asked with a raised
eyebrow.
Dance. I can see it in your eyes.
Obi-Wan straightened his form, tucking his hands into his sleeves so that he
looked very dignified and Jedi-like.
And what would Luke think of seeing an old Jedi dance? he asked very
seriously.
Anakin laughed out loud.
Hes my son. I would hope he would think it was completely normal.
Master Noi