Unexpected Awakening
Chapter 1
Awakening
Obi-Wan Kenobi blinked against the sunlight in the
room.
His hands went to his heart - stunned to find it
intact. He stared down at the solid flesh against his hand. He took a deep
breath, trying to calm the panic forming inside himself. He winced painfully -
his hands griping his tunic tighter. A throb was aching deep within his heart.
He rubbed the skin over it, as if that would some how help it.
The pain in his heart spiked with each breath he took,
becoming more and more unbearable with each second. With little warning his
stomach launched its protest at such abuse. Falling on all fours Obi-Wan
fought to cease the vomiting but found that his stomach was refusing his
commands.
He was horridly confused. Was he not dead? Surely this
was not the Force. Obi-Wan had always thought it was warmth and light and
peace. Not emptying his insides out!
His throat convulsed painfully and brought his focus
back to his body. It had succeeded in empty itself all over the blue carpet of
the main hall. A large handed cupped his shoulder and Obi-Wan started, his eyes
locking on the owner of the hand.
A Jedi Master kneeled before him. A sympathetic smile
on his face as his thumb messaged his shoulder.
Feel better now? Obi-Wan stared in open shock at the
Jedi, nodding dumbly in response. The Master-a gentle human by the name of Cort
Rent-stared back curiously. Perhaps, Cort wondered, the boy was truly sick.
Obi-Wan leaned back onto his heels, staring at the
man.
A Jedi? But that was impossible...it was impossible!
There was no way!
His eyes refocused past the Masters face, blurring
slightly as he focused in on the group of booted people behind him. Obi-Wan
raised his glance, barely able to muster the strength to do so. Afraid that he
would recognize to many. And remember how he had failed them. Again and again.
Jedi encircled him.
How? He blinked at my own voice, his hand gently
touching his voice box in confusion.
Was that my voice?
Obi-Wan! A worriedly voice called from the back of
the crowd. Excuse me! Move!
Bant... He breathed, his voice shaking. The Mon
Calamari took one look at her soiled friend and threw her arms around him.
Obi-Wan shook in her arms.
There was no way! This was just too cruel a joke! This
couldnt be real!
Oh Obi! Whats wrong? Are you sick? He pushed the
girl off, clambering to his feet and backing away from her.
What- Obi-Wan lowered his voice, the crispness he
had acquired as a General layering it, -is going on? Bant frowned.
Obi? She stepped forward, hand held out tentatively.
Have you stopped sleeping again? He stared at her. Stopped sleeping? Sleeping
was a luxury a Jedi could not offered to have with those damnable Bounty
Hunters being everywhere. Bant nodded, a grim line taking her lips. I thought
so. Then slightly quieter, Why didnt you tell me? She took another step
forward. A commanding voice froze her in tracts.
What seems to be the problem here? Mace Windu-in all
his glory-stood before him. His brown eyes held strength and vitality. Not the
dull, damned look they had held after the attack. Something swelled up in
Obi-Wans chest and he forced himself to drop the Council Members glaze,
images of the cruel death flickering through his mind. He swallowed. Hard.
Have I been given another chance?
Obi-Wan destroyed that hope, stamping it away before
it could take a deeper root. This was an impossibility. This had to be some
kind of trick-some new way Anakin thought up to torture him. Perhaps he hadnt
truly died after all. Pale blue eyes narrowed, a hand coming to rest over his
heart.
There was no way I could have survived a lightsaber
blow to the heart.
Im afraid that we had a bit of an accident. The
Master said as he stood from his kneeling position. He smiled kindly at his
Padawan, taking the stack of datapads back from the girl. Poor lad didnt
quite make it to a refresher in time. Master Windu nodded, calling for a driod
cleaner to be sent to the Main Hall. The kind Masters Padawan looked from his
Master to Mace to the surrounding Jedi.
Is no one going to mention that fact that hes gone
mad?
Padawan! The kind Master reprimanded strictly. The
girl winced.
But Master! You saw how he was acting! Mace looked
from the Padawan to the Master.
Anything you need to tell me Master Rent? Master
Rent nodded, shoving the data pads back into his Padawans hands. She groaned
as she fought to balance the tall stack against her short frame.
The Initiate seems a bit disoriented. Mace looked at
the Padawan. The Padawan shrugged.
He hasnt been sleeping! Bant explained quickly, her
eyes darting from the council member to her friend. I simply stared. This
couldnt be happening.
I still say he went fritzo.
Padawan! Apologize at your lack of consideration for
the Initiates feelings at once! Sighing the girl bowed, spilling the datapads
everywhere. It was then that a low chuckling caught his attention.
What do we have going on here Mace? A gathering in
the Main Hall? Everything inside Obi-Wan came to a screeching halt at the
sound of that voice. A much younger Qui-Gon Jinn stepped from the shadows of
the crowd, a small grin playing on his lips as he rested his hand on Maces
shoulder.
You would find this funny.
Qui-Gon glanced at the puke, his smile never wavering,
and then back to Obi-Wan. Not feeling to well are we?
Obi-Wan shook his head, wincing as his heart throbbed.
He rubbed it, pressing his palm into his chest roughly, as if the pressure
would stop the pain. But the pain continued, once again growing with each
breath.
Move- Pushing Rent away Obi-Wan fell once again to
his knees. His body retched...but nothing would came out. But he could not
still it.
Obi! Bant screamed her voice terrified.
He winced as a burning sensation rushed up his throat
and coated his tongue. Obi-Wan stared down in disgust at the bright green
stomach bile. The bile came up again but Obi-Wan forced his mouth shut,
determined to save some of his dignity and swallowed it back down. With a
strained groaned he fell off to the side, pressing the palms of his hands into
his eyes. The pain wasnt lessening and his body still demanded that it purge
itself.
This is worse then when I ate that stew Anakin made
for my birthday.
The pain in his heart intensified with the thought of
his former Padawan. His palms pressed firmer into his eyes and Obi-Wan opened
his mind to the Force, letting its sweetness wash over, providing comfort as it
could. He sighed, releasing his fear and confusion into the Force, sensing it
hum around him as he did it.
For so long, the Force had been his only comfort. The
only friend he knew that he would not lose.
For a moment he stilled all thoughts. The Force was
whispering to him. This was no trick. This was no illusion. Somehow, someway,
he had been transported back in time. He couldnt understand. Was he here for a
purpose? Was he suppose to try and change things for the better, or allow them
to play out their own course. Hell he didnt even know if he could allow it do
that.
Nothing would ever be the same.
The pain in his heart escalated, responding to the new
anxiety that had rooted in his mind. Obi-Wan clasped his heart.
A gift from a Padawan to his Master.
That is what Anakin had whispered to him before he had
driven the crimson blade through him.
Groaning Obi-Wans hand twitched against his heart.
These are thoughts are for another time.
He had more then enough opportunities to study Grief
Release into the Force. Quieting his thoughts he opened himself completely to
the Force.The pain began to dull, growing weaker each time the Force lapped
against it. Encouraged he released everything to the Force, allowing it to
sweep across his mind.
The young man was unaware though, that as he tended to
himself, a crowd of Jedi where analyzing his every move. Perhaps, if he had
known this, he would have acted differently.
Chapter 2
Repercussions
This couldn't be real.
That was the only thing that Obi-Wan could bring
himself to think as the Force swept away his pain. He had just been at the
volcano, fighting the only boy he would ever call apprentice.
This couldn't be real. No matter how real it looked
this couldn't be real.
The Force wouldn't do this to him give this to him.
Not after the way he has betrayed it. Obi-Wan pressed his palms harder into his
eyes, ignoring the slight pain at the movement. He has been too arrogant. He
should have realized he was too young to train Anakin. He could have given him
to Yoda. Yoda would have trained the boy if he has only insisted. He knew it.
Force! To think he had complained of Anakin's arrogance! Obi-Wan let out a rush
of breath.
Stop it Kenobi.
Such thoughts would get him no where. He let his hands
slide of his face and slowly opened his eyes. Cobalt eyes trailed across the
arched ceiling of Main Hall of the
Yes. This was the
"Careful now." Rent said kindly, laying a
gentle hand on his back. Only to withdraw it almost instantly, surprised by the
clear amount of discomfort his touch brought to the boy. Obi-Wan stood again,
slightly pleased to find the wrenching feeling all but gone from his stomach.
Taking a steady breath he brought his eyes up.
He tugged at the end of his sleeves, annoyed that he
didnt have his cloak for him to fold his hands into. He strained the sleeve
until it rested the where he wanted, his eyes roaming the faces of the Jedi
around him. But in the end, his glaze kept returning to one man.
"I think it would be best if you went to the
medical corridor Initiate Kenobi." Windu said in a authoritative tone as
the driod finished cleaning the floor. Obi-Wan could only nod.
"Qui-Gon could you make sure he arrives
there?" Master Windu asked, patting the rogue Jedi's back. A flicker of
annoyance flashed over the Jedi's face.
"Actually I was just on my way-"
"Then it's settled. Everyone, please return to
your business. Innate
And so Obi-Wan Kenobi found himself being escorted to
the
Who the hell wouldn't be in shock?
He glanced up at Qui-Gon, his heart aching at the
sight of him. The Master stared straight ahead of him, his face emotionless.
But Obi-Wan Kenobi had not spent thirteen years with the man and never learned
to read him. Qui0Gon was not pleased with his presence. Not pleased at all.
The silence was the cruelest torture he'd ever
experienced. He longed to reach out to Qui-Gon, embrace him. Beg him to speak.
To say anything to Obi-Wan. To be like how it once was.
It will never be like it once was.
Obi-Wan choked on the sob in the back of his throat.
Even if he once again became Qui-Gon Jinn's padawan, his innocence was stolen.
Obi-Wan would live everyday in guilt. Knowing he'd let his Master die and then
failed him with Anakin. Failed everyone. Tears were gathering in his eyes and
Obi-Wan fought to keep them back.
How could he be standing here right now? Getting this
chance? Why not Mace? Dear, dear Mace who had fought so valiantly, even to the
end. Brilliant Mace who had reached out Obi-Wan after his Master's death. Who
took Obi-Wan deep in his confidence and became one of his closet friends? Mace
who saw him now as nothing more then a charge?
"Initiate Kenobi?" Blinking Obi-Wan realized
that at some point he'd stopped walking. Obi-Wan dared a glance up at the
Master. The sight of Qui-Gon's concerned eyes caused his guilt to fold in on
itself and multiply itself.
"Sorry. I'm fine...I just got dizzy for a
moment." Obi-Wan knew the Master could tell he was lying. Obi-Wan began
the walk again, this time with a quicker pace to it.
He not yet strong enough to venture time alone with
his former Master.
After a series of
tests the Healers pronounced that Obi-Wan was in fine physical shape, but his
mind on the other hand was experiencing extreme stress. They assigned him to a Mind Healer. He was to report
to Master Mind Healer T'way twice a week.
It took all the effort in the world for Obi-Wan not to
laugh uncontrollably. A lone snort escaped him. Extreme stress. Bant snapped
her fingers in front of his face.
"Have you heard a word I've said?" Obi-Wan
blinked up at her. The Mon Calamari had been waiting for him at the door to his
room. It had touched Obi-Wan deeply. He'd forgotten how much she had cared for
him.
Bant kept talking to him but Obi-Wan couldn't bring
himself to answer her back, only a faint smile here and there.
At some point Bant had left and the lights of his
small apartment flickered off. The dreaded 'lights out'. He remembered how much
he used to hate that time of night. When his small group of friends would have
to stifle their laughter and depart for the night. How trivial it all seemed
now.
Surely he wasn't expected to continue life as if
nothing happened? How was he to deal with this? He could correct all the
mistakes he had made. With Ani...with Qui-Gon. He could Kill Palpatine. His
hands gripped at the comforter, pulling it loose from the bedside.
Yes. He could kill Palpatine. He could find that slimy
excuse for an old man and cut his head off before he could ever harm anyone
Obi-Wan had ever loved. That idea seemed very good to him. He could almost
imagine with a grunt he cut the image off. He had to let it go. As impossible
as it sounded he had to. He was venturing to close to the dark side, even for
his tastes.
No. I mustn't act now. I must wait. Observe. Plan.
There must be some reason I have been sent here. I can not act without
thinking.
Feeling slightly more comforted at having a general
out line of action Obi-Wan let out a sigh and rubbed at his eyes. How long had
he been staring up at the ceiling? Glancing over at the clock he winced to find
it nearly three in the morning.
He sat up and stared around the room. Starships he
could still remember so videdly constructing hovered around the ceiling. A
model of the universe was projected on one of his walls. He remembered when his
class had made it. They had all been assigned sections to do. They had to pay
painstaking detail to every asteroid field and rogue moon. Afterwards they had
connected the segments and been given copies.
The exercise was done to show them how large the
galaxy was and to appreciate how far it had come. Obi-Wan could remember being
amazed at the thought that many Jedi had been to some many of the planets. He
had never believed that he would have a chance to visit even one corner. The
irony of the situation did not miss him.
He stood, staring down at the plush carpet that gave
way to his feet. He could remember each stain, each missing patch as if it had
happened only months ago instead of years. Obi-Wan slid into the refresher and
took a deep breath before flicking on the lights.
Ah. So that how old he was. A twelve year old boy
stared back at him, complete with spiky ginger hair and cerulean eyes. Obi-Wan
frowned. If he wanted to exist without questions he would have to find a way to
lighten up. He tried smiling, but it looked hollow and stretched. Sighing he
leaned until his forehead was pressed against the cool mirror.
What in the Force good name was he expected to
accomplish here?
Try as he might, no
sleep would come to Obi-Wan Kenobi. Some
how he could not bring himself to lay down on the bed, to sleep in it as if
nothing had happened. Instead he had dug through his closet, pulling out a new
uniform that fit his liking.
Surprisingly the hardest thing to find was pants that
would not rise over his ankles. Obi-Wan was disgusted to find himself in the
middle of one of his dreaded growth spurts. Eventually he found one new pair,
still slightly stiff. Pulling his robe over top he called his lightsaber to his
hand. It was when it hit his hand that Obi-Wan noticed it was different. He
felt his eyes water slightly as he stared down at his original lightsaber.
That's right. I haven't lost it yet.
While it was a blessing to have returned to him he
could still remember the many months he had spent building it the loss of his
Master's lightsaber bit at him. He closed his eyes. It was a small price to
pay.
Qui-Gon is still alive.
And that was one thing he planned on keeping. He would
not lose him. Not this time. He refused it. The Force could ask him to do
anything else. Slit his own throat so that Qui-Gon would be able to train
Anakin. Verbally abuse the Council until they agreed with the brooding Master
and allowed him to raise the boy. But he could not allow Qui-Gon Jinn to die.
Not again.
Obi-Wan sighed as he realized that the lights of his
room had come on. Standing he opened his door and stood out. The
Not to his surprise was the lack of Initiates up and
about. Obi-Wan himself had the most horrible time awakening in the mornings. In
his old age he had outgrown that. He headed towards the cafeteria, wincing
slightly as he remembered the...interesting and eclectic taste of some of the
food there.
The droid chirped slightly to him as he brought his
plate to it. A few minutes later it was chalk full with a meal better then he
had in months. Turning he stared at the cafeteria, ever so slowly filling up
with students. To Obi-Wan, he'd never seen anything so beautiful.
"Hey Oafy-one!" Obi-Wan turned to stare at
the voice, something a kin to disbelief on his features. Bruck Chan. How could
he have forgotten about Bruck? The boy sauntered up to him, circling him in an
attempt to intimidate and anger him. "I heard you barfed all over the main
hall. Smooth Kenobi. Real smooth. I'm sure those Master's loved that. I'm sure
you just swamped with callers."
Staring at the boy Obi-Wan had to fight to keep the
disgust off his face. This is what had thrown him in a tizzy when he was a
youth? By the Force he must been dull when he was a boy. Bruck's words were
such an obvious attempt to quell his own lack of Master visitors.
Obi-Wan watched the boy's face intently. He could
still recall the look of twisted fear as he plummeted over the waterfall's
side. But the memory brought no pain. Long ago Obi-Wan was able to put that
demon away, with no little help from his Master may he add.
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon had spent long hours contemplating
Bruck's death and why it had to be. Obi-Wan tried hard no to think about the
fact that Qui-Gon was yet his Master. It was hard to know he was alive and not
to speak with him the way he wanted to.
"Hm." Obi-Wan bowed his head in a short sign
of respect and turned away. He was too old to deal with such stupidity. Setting
his tray down Obi-Wan sighed as he devoured his meal. At least his appetite had
returned.
Chapter 3
Mistakes
Obi-Wan found, almost to his complete surprise, that
his feet still knew the path he had taken every day of his youth. He watched
the classrooms pass him in a serial state.
It seems soreal.
He shook his head. Of course it seemed real. He was
here wasnt he? Never the less, Obi-Wan could not fight the haunting feeling
that any moment he was going to wake up. Return to the ruined Republic and the
scattered Jedi.
To the universe I helped create.
Fighting to keep the placid face he had perfected in
his thirty-seven years Obi-Wan tried to rip himself from the past. Or was it
the future? Obi-Wan hand flew to his chest, gritting his teeth at the small
echo of pain that threaten to grow there.
What is to become of me?
Caught in his thoughts it took him a few moments to
realize that he had reached his first class. Slipping silently through the
arched door, his eyes scanned the room quickly. He almost verbally reproached
himself. There was no danger here. Not yet. Still, twenty-four years as an
active field agent could not be turned off so quickly. Hesitantly he settled
himself into a seat in the middle, one that he had barely remembered as his
own.
His plan for class was simple: answer the some
questions and act like an idiot on the others. Perhaps it seemed too simple or
lacking in grace but he simply did not care. He could not think of any other
way to fake not knowing a subject. The low tone filled the air and the rest of
the students filled into the room, laughing and yawning as they took their
seats. Obi-Wan felt a lump form in his throat as he stared at each one. Many of
his clanmates had died in the first purge. A guilt of such an intensity he had
never felt before filled him as he sawimages ofvaliant warriors broken down
into smiling children. He adverted his eyes, staring at a fixed point on the
girls tunic in front of him.
How can I face them?
He fought down the rising panic. How could he face
them knowing how the majority of them died? Having witnessed it? His eyes
widened slightly as the girl in front of him laughed,the sound to
characteristic to be ever missed interrupted.
Chelli? The name escaped his lips before he could
stop himself. The humanoid girl turned to stare at him, green eyebrow arched.
Ya? Obi-Wan shook his head, an apologetic smile on
his face at her annoyed look. He had tutored Chelli in Mathematics for a while.
Or at least he would in a few years. The experience had definitely been burned
into his mind. The violence of the girl had been famous before Qui-Gon had
volunteered Obi-Wan for the tutoring job. Her reputation only grew afterwards.
Shaking his head Obi-Wan simply leaned back, a remorseful smile on his face as
he watched her speak with her friends.
Her Padawan was just like her.
He faught a laugh. Yes, the two were almost identical
in personality. It was a miracle they survived their first year together fully
intact. Fulo was such a strong-hearted boy;Obi-Wan had mentored him in
Mathematics for a while as well. But that was before Anakin
The soft pressureofhand to his brought him out of his
thoughts and he turned to find Bant sitting next to him, a soft smile on her
lips.
Come on Obi! It cant be that embarrassing!
Thankfully the Instructor called class to order before Obi-Wan had to answer.
Classes went by
without a hitch in his plan. That is,
until he reached Saber classes.
Obi-Wan had always been a little above his age bracket
when it came to katas and sparring. But now it was going to take every inch of
skill he ha to keep those same abilities at bay. Luckily, Instructor Reya began
each class with an extensive warm up. He used the open time to mediate, using
the mechanical actions of his body to dumb down his senses.
In the end all of it was for not. For the dark skinned
Nautolan pulled Obi-Wan out halfway through his first fight. He had sensed her
eyes on him, analyzing every move he made. Now those same black eyes stared
down at him, a furry deep within them. All who met Ila Reya spoke of her
dedication to mastering the art of combat with a Lightsaber. And all who walked
away from her where left with a feeling that perhaps all the years of training
had left something not quiet right in the head. In his elder years Obi-Wan had
leaned that the Nautolan was not insane. She simply expected everyone else
around her to hold Lightstaber play in the same extreme light as she. While in
his youth Obi-Wan had been quite terrified of him. She did not speak a word to
him, simply barked a command for her Padawan to take up teaching the
classbefore shedragged him out into the hallway.
Instructor Reya wh- The Jedi swung around mid word
and placed her finger firmly against his forehead.
I do not think highly of those who take of their
Lightsaber carriers with such flippancy Kenobi. Obi-Wan blinked, forcing his
jolted muscles to relax. Dont give me that startled Bantha look Kenobi. You
know what I am speaking off. Reya removed her finger, showing it to Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan stared at the finger, and then back up at Reya. I specifically
designed that work out to be extremely difficult for all the races of my
students. So tell me how you are blessed to come out of it without even a drop
of sweat?
Obi-Wans jaw tightened, keeping his face a schooled
expression of respect and placidness. It didnt taken him to long to figure out
what had happen. In his older formsuch awork out would have been completed
quickly and easily. That strength did not exist in his twelve-year-old body. So
when his mind called upon it, the Force answered.
How do I expect to survive here if I cant even keep
tract of my Force input!
It was simply that he had never had to before. Even
when they began hunting the Jedi, the Jedi had simply cut their connection to
the Force down to the smallest trickle. But here something that drastic would
be picked up upon immediately.
Either way, he needed to come up to a situation.
Perhaps I am just growing use-.
Follow me. Palming open a door Reya pushed him in.
Instantly Obi-Wan recognized it as one of the several sparring rooms opened to
the general Jedi. He had practiced here many times with Qui-Gon. Practice
katas one through twenty. Practice until they are perfected and then practice
them more. Perhaps this will teach you the value of exerting yourself in
training.
Reya stormed off to the door, palming the lock so that
it read occupied.
You are not to leave this room until I give you
permission. Then the door shut. Cursing, Obi-Wan glancing at the glassed in
windows of the observation deck. A small Force prob told him they were empty.
Groaning Obi-Wan ignited his lightsaber.
Might as well.
Why have you kept
him here past your class slot Ila? Master
Windus moved his glaze from the clock to the Initiate. Reya hesitated before
answering, watching the boy do his katas.
He was holding back.
Thats hardly a good reason. While your installment
of the dedication to swordplay into our young is amenable, it is not advisory
to work them to exhaustion. And whether or not you wish to admit it, training
and katas are not all that makes a warrior. The iced warning was barely veiled
in his voice.
Master Windu, do you recognize the number kata hes
practicing as of now? Reya did not take her eyes off Obi-Wan, watching the
slightly tired yet fluid motion of his steps.
Fifteen, why?
Ive only taught him up to ten.
Chapter 4
Painful
Wondering
Obi-Wans body slid
through the katas with a grace and speed that came from years of practice. His body slipped from one to the other with ease,
muscles rippling at the moves. For Obi-Wan this was no more then a review. To
his bodies these forms were second nature to walking.
For the first time since his arrival Obi-Wan allowed
his thoughts to run completely free.
The results were painful.
Ever present on his mind was what to do now. Should he
try and save the Jedi? Try and put a stop to what was going to come? Should he
go renegade and kill those that needed it before they bloomed into atrocities?
Even the thoughts of escaping to Tatooine and awaiting Anakins birth fluttered
across his mind. He could take the boy and give him to the Jedi. Perhaps then
he could be tamed. And always, Obi-Wan vowed, he would be there to make sure
the Snake never touched him.
In truth he couldnt bring himself to do anything.
Just keep cycling through the katas, blade flying comfortably around him,
thoughts racing. His mind went back to that day. Back to the words Anakin had
spoken. In a way, Ani had been correct.
There weremany things wrong with the Jedi.
We are not Saints but Seekers.
The childhood mantra passed easily through his mind.
Obi-Wan wondered what was its purpose? Though nearly every Initiate could
repeat it they didnt truly know its meaning.
We all were to cocky. Proud lap dogs of the Senate,
never questioning its corruption until to late.
And he was the worst. After all those years of telling
Anakin to reign in his unrestrained passion, to cease his arrogance, to never
trust a politician, it had been Obi-Wans arrogance that had destroyed them
all.
He should never of trained Anakin. He should of forced
Yoda to. He would of. Even betterIt should not of been Qui-Gon Jinn who died
that day. His lightsaber blade shot out with particular force at that truth in
that thought. Qui-Gon would have been good for the boy. Obi-Wan was to young.
To freshly minted and to full of pain to rear Anakin successfully. But
naturally Obi-Wan could not let himself betray his Master. And so he took the
boy.
Even though it pained him that his beloved Master, the
same Master he had fought all his apprenticeship for acceptance, had words only
for the boy at the end. Even though he didnt see what his Master did in the
boy. Even though everyday, as he preached to Anakin about moving on and letting
his pain go to the Force, his mind never left the spot his Master had fallen.
I was a horrible Master.
Obi-Wan blinked at the thought, his motions slowing.
It wasnt a new thought, but for some reason today it held fresh pain and damnation.
I was a horrible Master. I did it to him. The same
thing Qui-Gon did to me. The same thing I swore Id never do to my apprentice.
Obi-Wan had tried his hardest his entire Mastership to
be as good and as just a Master as Qui-Gon Jinn would have been. Until now
Obi-Wan didnt realize just how well he had emulated one aspect of his beloved
Master. He had refused Anakin entrance to his heart, the same way his Master
had. Just as Xantos had destroyed any hope of a healthy beginning between them,
Naboo had destroyed any hope of Obi-Wan and Anakin having a normal
Master-Padawan relationship.
Oh yes, he had loved the boy. More then he could say.
In the end he could never have killed Anakin. In the end he may have even
protected his Padawan from the others. If Anakin had only come back to him.
In the end, in the end.
Obi-Wan sighed and looked around, slightly surprised
to realize he had stopped moving. He rubbed his hand mindlessly against his
heart. The ache had returned, throbbing continuously in the back of his mind.
How long have I been in here?
As if to answer the thought the door chimed open and
Ila Reya came strolling in, a tray of food in one hand and half a gallon of
water in the other. Wordlessly she handed them over and pointed to the door.
You may leave now. Bowing low Obi-Wan started out,
draining the water as he went. He stared down at the food, eyebrow raised as he
sniffed it.
Id forgotten how bad this food could be.
The mind healer
wasnt a pleasant visit for Obi-Wan. He
sat in an overly stuffed chair, staring blankly at Mind Healer Tway. Who in
turn, stared blankly back at Obi-Wan. Not that the man wasnt trying. His
entire body posture screamed non-threatening. Obi-Wan pulled his eyes way
from the Healer, focusing instead on the quickly moving stream of traffic
outside.
You really dont want to be here, do you Obi-Wan?
Tways voice was gentle. It had an almost begging sound in it. Obi-Wan sighed,
tugging his cloak sleeves over his hands.
No. I dont want to be here.
No ones forcing you to be here. Tway sank under
the glare Obi-Wan sent him. Yes, the Healers ordered you to come. But I dont
want to force you to be here Obi-Wan. Thats not what Im here for. You may
leave, if thats truly what you want.
Obi-Wan watched the humanoid for a moment, searching
for any sign of untruthfulness. Finding none he nodded swiftly and stood. He
had reached the door when Tway called out to him.
I want to help you Obi-Wan. If you need me for
anything just chime me up. Obi-Wan turned to stare at him, finding the
Healer holding out a small address disk. Somethings happened to you Obi-Wan.
I can tell that much just by being in the same room as you. But I wont, in
fact I refuse, to force you tell me anything. But if you ever need to talk. Just
let me know.
Obi-Wan stared at the disk then back up at the Healer.
Nodding he took it and shoved it in his pocket. A relieved look feel across the
Healers face. Mentally Obi-Wan swore.
I didnt mean to encourage him.
Anything you say Obi-Wan will be confidential. Not a
soul will know what happens in this office.
Obi-Wan smiled, his voice unwillingly mocking as it
escaped him. Within reason of course. The Healer frowned, then nodded.
Yes, with in reason.
And then Obi-Wan left, his steps echoing down the
hallway. Healer Tway watched the boy go with furred brows. Something was
different about that boy. Something strange that he couldnt quite put his
finger one. A giant sigh escaped Tway as he leaned back in his chair.
He severally hoped that this would not be their last
visit.
It was the next day
that Obi-Wan had his first panic attack.
Honestly he didnt know what caused it or how it
ended. But he was thankful to know that it had happened in the privacy of his
own room.
He had awoken early, as was his way, and settled to
meditating until the lights rose. And then it had come upon him, heart
screaming and stomach lurching. And once again Obi-Wan found himself in front
of the Jedi Council, blood dripping down his hand, hitting the floor as they
stared at him with unforgiving eyes.
Its over Master Kenobi. We have no choice but to
label him renegade.
/Drip/
Just a few days. Hes my Padawan. Hell listen to me.
I can bring him back.
/Drip/
Im sorry. There just isnt any time left. The situation
is to extreme.
/Drip/
Im sorry Obi-Wan. Hes traveled to far.
Obi-Wan bowed his head, staring at the blood.
/Drip/
Then allow me to do it.
Master Kenobi I dont think thats an entirely wise-
/Drip/
He is my Padawan! I will do it! Obi-Wan snapped.
Turning on his feet he stormed out of the room, blood trailing behind him.
When he came out of it he was staring up at his
ceiling, hands pressing down upon his acheing heart, the model planes hovering
to and fro across his eyes. Yet he did not see them. He could still smell the
Council Room. He could still feel the cold drain of blood from his arm. He felt
like vomiting.
In the end I couldnt do it. I forced them to allow me
to do it. Yet I could not kill him. I couldnt kill my Padawan. I damned them
all.
It was unknown to him how he had managed to get
dressed and leave his room. Everything was a silver haze, shadows of his past
seemed to be everywhere. He saw figures walk by him that did not exist yet. It
wasnt until he was standing in the sparring rooms, staring at the other
Initiate from his saber class as they were divided into sparring pairs, did his
shadows disappear.
Only then did he stop hearing the voices of the dead.
No, he corrected as he glanced around the room, the
voices of the damned.
Kenobi. How nice of you to join us. Master Reya said
dryly, placing her hands firmly on his shoulders she guided him to a spot in
front of Bruck Chun.
Handle these two, I shall Master Reya. Master Yoda
hobbled over, poking Obi-Wan in the leg fiercely with his glimmer stick.
Letting out a muted howl Obi-Wan rubbed it, staring at the small Master in
shock.
How could I have forgotten how violent that damnable
troll was?
Master Reya eyed Obi-Wan and Bruck distrustfully, her
hand tightening on her lightsaber.
Assure you I do, that properly they will be taught.
Yodas voice held nothing to hint at a rebuke but it was there nevertheless. A
soft blush took Ila Reyas face as she nodded and strolled away. If it hadnt
been for Obi-Wans diplomatic training he would of missed it all.
Bruck just grinned at him, sneering at him as Yoda led
the way to a private sparring room.
Careful, Obi-Wan warned as he followed Yoda, It may
just stay that way.
The blade of the
lightsaber hissed through the air. Obi-Wan
could not see its red gleam through the blindfold pressing on his eyes. He used
the Force to know precisely when to duck.
Despite that his skills were far superior to Bruck's,
Obi-Wan found himself sweating under the blindfold. He was exhausted after the
vision. His body aching to return to bed and his heart pounding in his chest.
Each breath was a challenge. What was truly damaging for Obi-Wan was the
emotional drain.
Perhaps thats why Bruck almost hit him.
At the last moment the Force screamed for his attention
and he somersaulted over the boys head, thrusting his lightsaber down. He was
rewarded with a scream of pain. Obi-Wan stayed where he was, blinking at the
words that came next.
That was a lucky blow! He could remember this
moment. He could remember Bruck saying those very words to him.
Bruck, Yoda called calmly. Leave your blindfold on.
A Jedi needs not his eyes to see. Obi-Wan waited for the sound of the
blindfold being removed. With a slap it was thrown to the ground.
You clumsy oaf!
Calm yourself, you will! Obi-Wans head turned at
the sound of Yodas voice. It was sharp, a tone he rarely used. But embedded it
was worry. Worry for Bruck Chuns well being.
The image of Bruck falling over the side of a
waterfall assaulted him.
No, not this time. Ill save him to.
Come on, Oafy, Bruck taunted. see if you can hit me
again! One last time, before they throw you out of the
Bruck enough! Obi-Wan removed his blindfold,
recalling the time when Brucks words had terrified him. Learn to lose as well
as win, a Jedi must. Go to your room, you will.
Obi-Wan stilled. He remembered the words of challenged
that he had issued in the past. He could utter those words now, play into the
trap later on. Allow time to go as it hador he could not. He could change
time. Change the past. This was a choice Obi-Wan had hoped he would have far
more time to think out. He was saved that choice.
To you room Kenobi, you will also go. Bowing low to
Yoda he turned to the exit, watching Bruck storm out. Picking up the discarded
blindfold he handed them both to Master Yoda. In seconds Yodas glimmer stick
had made contact with his knees and Obi-Wan found himself on his knees, near
eye level with the Master.
Many secrets you have. The glimmer stick rested dangerously
close to Obi-Wans forehead. Tell them to me, you will. In time. The small
master waddled off towards a holo-lift nearby. Yes. In time.
Blinking Obi-Wan climbed to his knees and began the
trudge back to his room.
The time to chose had come so much sooner then he had
intended. If he remember correctly, tomorrow he would be completing for the
role of Qui-Gon Jinns Padawan.
The way he saw it he had few choices. He could lose to
Bruck or win to him. Either way, Qui-Gon Jinn would still not chose him for an
apprentice. And this time, Obi-Wan would not be on the ship to Bandomeer. With
a sinking heart Obi-Wan realized that this time around, he may not be anyones
apprentice.
Do I even deserve that right anymore?
The door to Obi-Wans room slid open and he sighed in
relief as he collapsed onto the bed.
Even if he was offered another Master, he wanted
Qui-Gon. No one else. Drying his still damp forehead he was surprised to find
the blindfolds still in his hand. Tossing them to the floor he rolled over.
Deranged Gnome.
Chapter 5
Questionable Victories
The time of the fight arrived sooner then Obi-Wan
could ever anticipated. Bruck stood across from him, a deadly calm look on his
face. Decked in a full body black armor suit. Obi-Wan stood still, outfitted in
a replica of Brucks body armor in brown.
It felt eerily like wearing Clone Trooper Armor. Obi-Wan
tried not to think about that as the small AJTD6 video droid flew him, his
image multiplied by a hundred on a hanging screen above him.
Even at these last few moments he was unsure of what
to do. Panic was filling his every being, making his grip on his lightsaber
slack with sweat. What if he made a mistake? What if he could not restrain
himself and he fought like he had for the past ten years? What if-
Stop Kenobi. By the time your going through all the
What ifs the fight will be over.
Obeying the seemingly smarter half of him Obi-Wan
stepped forward with the call, bowing to Bruck before waiting for the signal to
ignite. Taking a deep breath Obi-Wan closed his eyes as he centered himself. Bringing
the Force to him to sweep away his fears. He would do what he always had.
Follow the will of the Force. If the Force wanted him to win this fight. Then
he would win it. If not, he would loose.
The call was made.
Obi-Wans eyes opened as Bruck charged him. Igniting
his own blade Obi-Wan blocked the furious onslaught. He was surprised by the
fury of Brucks slashes.
Hes terrified!
The realization thatBruck Chunwas also riding his
entire future upon this fight truly struck him for the first time. Obi-Wan
looked upon the situation with fresh eyes. Not the eyes of a jealous rival. But
that of a Jedi Master. That moment of weakness was all Bruck needed.
Hissing in pain Obi-Wan slashed out quickly as he
twisted away, slashing again. Bruckgrunted in pain as he was caught in both the
front and back. The stinging sensation on the front of Obi-Wans body armor
left and he found himself defending again.
Obi-Wan dropped to the floor and made for Brucks
feet. Sensing this Bruck leapt into the air. Obi-Wan simply readjusted his
path, swinging his weight up on his hands and twisting with a kick that caught
the boy in the chin. Slashing upwards Obi-Wan caught him by surprise.
The Force hummed in the back of his mind. Obi-Wan willing
retreated, giving Bruck time to recover. He had to be careful. This fight could
not be too easy for him. Already he had felt the light touch of someones mind.
Bruck stared at him with hatred; seemingly sensing that the reason Obi-Wan had
backed up was to give him time to recover.
Taking the offence Obi-Wan charged at Bruck and once
again the two were swirling around each other, blade meeting blade. Obi-Wan
jumped away with a puff. What the boy did not have in skill, he was making it
up with force. His tender twelve-year-old arms were screaming under the
constant effort of meeting the blows.
Yet Obi-Wan monitored his impute of the Force. When
blocking became difficult he did not allow himself to call the Force into take
away the pain and make him stronger. This, as had been proven to him, was not
the action of a normal untrained twelve-year-old.
So sweat lined his brow, stinging his eyes as he once
again faced off against Bruck. They broke away with tremendous force, each
sliding back from each other, eyes never leaving each other.
Fool. Bruck hissed, to quietly for the AJTD6 which
hovered around them to catch. You should never have agreed to fight me. You
cant win.
The smell of burnt skin and hair permeated the area. Both
warriors had managed to hit one another, but the touches so far had not been
firm strikes. The Masters had decided the fight would be without blindfolds. Brucks
face was close, and his eyes glared at Obi-Wan with hate. The moment stretched,
extended.
And Obi-Wan found himself unable to breathe as he
stared into the eyes of this frightened, angry little boy. Who, like his
Padawan had, was taking the first tentative steps towards the darken path that
would lead to his expulsion from the order.
And so Obi-Wan made his decision. As Bruck charged him
once again Obi-Wan simply stepped out of the way and rested his blade inches
from the back of Bruck Chuns neck. The pain in Obi-Wans heart intensified as
heard the pitiful gasp, barely audible that escaped the boys lips. Master
Yodas call to end the match went unheard. The cheering of the crowd went
unheard. The only thing he was aware of was the quivering boy at his side.
Bruck hadnt moved. Obi-Wan hadnt moved. Their
lightsaber's still blazed in the room. Shutting his down he placed it back on
his belt and stared down at the mat.
If it makes any difference to you Bruck. Obi-Wan
said softly. He is not taking an Apprentice. Neither you, nor I. Im sorry.
Without an answer Bruck stormed off the mat.
He knew that the last thing Bruck wanted was his
compassion. But he could only feel pity as they boy disappeared around the
bleachers, his friends giving chase. He scanned the area with sad eyes.
Today he had crushed the dreams of a boy
He knew all to well what that felt like.
The hot water from
the shower in the dressing room stroked his back. Rubbing his hand over his heart in slow, forceful
motions Obi-Wan Kenobi allowed his body to cool down. He had long since
finished showering. But the hot water was soothing anyway.
He knew Qui-Gon Jinn had arrived already. He was
sitting in the dressing room, waiting for Obi-Wan to emerge. To tell him quite
simply that he would not take him as a padawan. The same thing Qui-Gon had said
last time. Even though Obi-Wan had fought differently, he knew that the answer
would be the same. The pain from Xantos was still too fresh.
Finally he shut the water off. Padawan or not, Obi-Wan
he could not be purposely rude to his former Master by making him wait so long.
He tried his hardest not repeatedly dry his body off and clad himself in a new
uniform. He draped his robe over his arm, running a hand through his spiky hair
before he stepped out of the small fresher.
As he had felt, Qui-Gon Jinn sat on a small couch that
stretched the dressing rooms length. The Jedis Master was in a pose that
Obi-Wan knew all to well. He was bent over, elbows resting on his knees,
fingers folded together projecting from his body. And his eyes, that intense
grey, stared straight at him.
For a moment no one spoke, and Obi-Wan fought the urge
to rub the pain in his chest. It had been growing ever since the defeat of
Bruck. But Obi-Wan could not tare his eyes from his Masters face.
No. Not my Master.
Turning he walked over to the small driod and the
corner and typed in an order. The Jedi Masters eyes seemed to boar into his
back.
Force! Id forgotten how intense he could be!
A large bottle of water and small cup of black tea
came out. Grabbing hold of both he brought himself to the chair across from
Qui-Gon. He placed the tea on the coffee table, sliding it across to Qui-Gon. Leaning
back he opened the water and sipped from it. Qui-Gon glanced down at the tea
before returning his eyes once again to Obi-Wan.
How did you know I took my tea black? The question
wasn't demanding. Justcurious. Obi-Wan felt a snort rising in his throat. The
proper way to take tea had been a constant debate among their years together. Obi-Wan
liked his medium with a hint of honey. Qui-Gon, like everything about the man,
wanted it pure. But he couldnt tell the Master that.
You just seemed like a dark tea type of man. A less
then brillant explanation. He could tell Qui-Gon did not believe him.
Good guess. Qui-Gon said as he sipped his tea. Obi-Wan
took a large sip of the water, careful not to spill any on himself. After all
these years Obi-Wan still remembered how terribly clumsy he was at this age. Who
taught you to fight like that?
What do you mean? Qui-Gon didnt answer. Obi-Wan
could almost hear his former Masters thoughts.
A question for a question.
It had been one of his Masters favorite ways of
teaching.
Not so pleasing when someone does it you is it?
Qui-Gon stirred his tea and took another sip.
Why did you end it like you did? Obi-Wan leaned back
into the chair. Here was the fork. The difference. The change in the past he
had created. Obi-Wan took another couple of sips of water, taking his time with
each one. He needed time to think. To figure out just how to reply to this. With
a sigh he rested the water on his knee.
Irealized I could win. I wanted it to end quickly.
Qui-Gon Jinn leaned back into the couch as if he had
heard what he had expected.
So confident you were in your victory? Arrogance can
be a dangerous flaw in a Jedi. Qui-Gon watched his face for a reaction.
Obi-Wan could feel the gentle probes to his aura. The galaxy is filled with
dangers, Initiate Kenobi. Dangers much cleverer then Bruck Chun. And you wont
be wearing a body armor suit to protect you from them. Such confidence could
easily be abused Kenobi.
Obi-Wan stared at the Master. He was confused on how
just to take that last sentence. Was he speaking of his arrogance getting him
killed or it leading him to the Dark Side? He knew Xantos had been cocky as all
hellObi-Wan played with the bottle on his knee, rolling it over his kneecap,
enjoying the cold that soaked through his pants.
Absent-mindedly he brought his other hand to rub his
heart.
What was I suppose to do? I realized at the moment
how to win. What should I have done? Toy with him? Obi-Wan shook his head.
That would kind of humiliation would be the cruelest thing I could have done.
Qui-Gon cocked his head ever so slightly to the side. Obi-Wan
recognized what that meant. His answer had surprised the Jedi Master. Obi-Wan
doubted highly that it had enough to impress. But it was the truth. It was what
Obi-Wan had realized when he found himself staring into the enraged eyes so
like his Padawans but not.
Qui-Gon finished the last of his tea in stood. Out of
habit and respect Obi-Wan stood as well. Qui-Gon made his way to the door,
Obi-Wan followed, setting the water bottle on a nearby table as he pulled his
outer robe on.
I will not take you as my Padawan. Obi-Wan closed
his eyes and took a deep breath.
Its alright. This was what you were expecting.
Opening his eyes he took a long sip from the water
bottle. Even so, it was hard to hear and to know that for this time, it was for
real. This time, there would be no second chance. He realized that Qui-Gon was
starring at him, waiting Obi-Wan was sure, for some objection. Obi-Wan cleared
his throat.
I will be thirteen in four weeks. Obi-Wan said
softly. Qui-Gon Jinn nodded as he folded his hands into his robe.
It is better not to train a boy to become a Knight if
there is the risk he will turn to the dark side. Qui-Gon Jinn said in what
Obi-Wan assumed was his best attempt at a gentle voice. Obi-Wan simply nodded.
I will not turn. Obi-Wan said softly. He bowed
before his former Master, the pain so strong now in his heart he almost lost
his balance. He rose and offered the Jedi Master a forced smile. May the Force
be with you Master Jinn.
With that Obi-Wan strolled from the practice room and
into the nearest lift. The doors slid shut and Obi-Wan braced himself against
the walls of the lift, trying to edge off the pain that was in his heart. He
felt tears pool at the edges of his eyes.
His Master would not take him again. It was what he
had expected but the thought nearly drove him insane with pain. Even after his
Master had discarded him, even after Obi-Wan had failed him with Anakin. After
he had failed them all...He had still hoped, he realized now, in the depths of
some part of his soul, that his Master would take him as his Padawan.
Slamming his palm against the button that stopped the
lift he rested his head against the side. His breaths quick and heavy.
Painfully so. His heart was screaming, spiking pains running up and down his
chest. Obi-Wan found himself sliding down until he was crouched in front of the
wall, his head resting against it for balance.
A sudden heat overtook him, flushing his face and the
back of his hands immediately. Opening his eyes Obi-Wan found himself assaulted
with a vision of red.
The laser wall separated Obi-Wan from his Master. Obi-Wan
stood tense, ever muscle in his body screaming for the wall to shut off. The
heat of it licked out against his face and the back of his hands. But the
Padawan did not notice. His entire thoughts, his entire soul was focused on the
battle in front of him.
Please Master! Just hold on! Ill be there soon!
Obi-Wan cursed himself for not being faster. He should
have sensed the laser walls refigureing and sped up accordingly with the Force.
His eyes watched every move of his Master. Qui-Gon was fairing well, but the
Sith was ruthless and he could tell his Master was tiring
As he watched a cold chill took Obi-Wan. For an
instant, Qui-Gons opponent seemed to be wearing a black helmet.
This is wrong! That should be me out there, not
Qui-Gon!
Obi-Wan shook his head. His Masters opponent was
wearing no helmet. His Master was fighting fiercer then Obi-Wan had ever seen
before. He glared at the laser walls.
Wont these things ever come down again?
Qui-Gon blocked one stroke of the Sith lord and
parried another. The Sith Lord blocked the Masters attack and then reversed
it, slamming its lightsaber into Qui-Gons chin. Qui-Gon staggered backwards,
half-dazed from the force of the unexpected blow. The Sith Lord let out a
chilling grin and reversed his lightsaber, thrusting it through Qui-Gon.
NO! The grief that tore through Obi-Wan was like
nothing he had ever felt before. On the other side of the training link his
Masters mind erupted in pain. Obi-Wan heart felt like it was breaking.
But then the laser walls deactivated. And then there
was more time for thinking.
He did not take him as a Padawan. Windu said as he
watched Qui-Gon Jinn disappeared into the giant Star Map Room. Master Yoda said
nothing, simply watched the Master go.
In the force...a great shift there has been. Yoda
said softly, leaning on his glimmer stick in thought. A great change there has
been in Kenobi. Gone his anger is. Replaced by much sorrow. Master Windu
sighed, rubbing his forehead. Grief, sorrow. These things were just as
dangerous as anger.
What could have caused the boy sorrow?
Finally found the right question you have. Master
Yoda hobbled off towards the Star Map Room entrance. Qui-Gons apprentice,
Obi-Wan is meant to be. Tell me this, the Force does. Follow its will I always
have. It will guide us. The ancient Master stood at the door for a moment. Send
Obi-Wan to Bandomeer. Assigned to the Agricultural corps he will be.
What assurances do you know that Jinn will take him
on as an Apprentice? After Xantos Windus voice faded at the twitch in Yodas
ears.
Shown me this, the Force has. Yoda sighed. If fool,
Jinn continues to bethe interest of others Kenobi has won.
Someone else? Who? But the Star Map Room door had
already hissed shut.
Master Windu allowed himself a flat look. Sometimes he
could swear that little Troll enjoyed his mysterious. It was dangerous game
Yoda was playing though. In Maces opinion the stakes were too high. But then
again, Master Windu also had to admit that he hadnt even the starts of the
understanding of the Force that Master Yoda have.
He knew one thing for sure. His old friend wasnt
going to be happy about the Troll tormenting him. There was a soft crinkling
sound as Mace pulled out a small candy and popped it in his mouth. Washing his
hands of this mess Mace walked away. He had other business to attend to.
The first thought
that came to Obi-Wans mind when he returned was that he was laying on his
back. His legs were bent against that
wall in an extremely uncomfortable angle.
The second thing was that he had thrown up. Taking a sip
of water he rinsed his mouth out and spit it next to the vomit. At least this
time he had managed to miss himself.
Obi-Wan stood slowly, wincing as the world around him
spun widely. He reached out to the lift activation buttons, sending it once
again upon its way. He activated the cleaning program and a small trey detached
itself from one of the sides. Three small robots parted from and it went to
work. Obi-Wan tried hard not to look at how quickly the little silver things
were moving.
He took another swig of water in an attempt to calm
his stomach. The doors opened and Obi-Wan stepped cautiously over the busily
working machines. He rubbed his head as he made his way to his room, ignoring
the looks he was getting by the few students around.
He palmed open his door and wasnt surprised to find
his com blinking red. Finally, it seemed hed know his future. Ignoring the com
Obi-Wan decided hed rather clean up. He could admit openly that he was
frightened of what the report would say. For him, any future without Qui-Gon in
it, low without the Jedi in it, was no future at all. How was he to set things
right if he was grounded before he could even begin?
Heading towards the bathroom Obi-Wan took one look at
his pale reflection and decided that he needed to get some food in his body
before he dropped dead.
It took him a moment to recall his secret stash of
snacks. He sat down on the bed and ate the chocolate bar slowly, allowing the
rich taste to calm him. When he was finished he changed his outer tunic and
brushed his teeth. He winced as he scrubbed at them harshly. All of this
throwing up could not be good for his dental hygiene.
At this point Im going to rot my teeth away.
Finally content with his image Obi-Wan stood before
the com unit, his fingers inches from the button. Whatever this message held
was his fate. With a sigh he pressed it. He was never one for suspense.
Obi-Wan blinked in surprise as the orders printed
themselves out. As he read through them he felt his legs nearly give out on
him. He was to report to The Monument as soon as his bags were packed. He was
being sent to the Agricultural Corps on Bandomeer.
Chapter 6
Not Like This
The Monument was an old Corellian barge, pocked and
scarred from meteor hits. It was shaped like a crate, and attached to the front
of it were a dozen cargo boxes it would push to Bandomeer. It was the ugliest,
dirtiest ship that Obi-Wan could have imagined. And if the exterior was ugly,
the interior was foul. Its battered corridors smelled of miners dust and the
sweaty bodies of many species. Repair ports were left open, so that wires and
pressure hoses the ships guts spilled out as if from an open wound.
Obi-Wan took a deep whiff and fought the smile that
came to his lips. Hes never smelled anything so wonderful. It was still beyond
his thinking how it is he managed to arrive here. It must have been the will of
the Force, though Obi-Wan couldnt understand why it would give this second
opportunity.
He traveled silently down the hall, ignoring the
various creatures as he walked along. His mind was alive with thoughts. He was
going to see ChatHa. But what he was really looking forward to was seeing Si
Treemba again. He had never, much to his regret, kept in contact with the young
Arconan that had befriended him in his hour of need and self-doubt.
He walked slowly through the halls, making sure that
this time he would not get lost. Upon his first true arrival on the ship he had
wander into the Offworld territory of this ship, which was run by Hutts and
Whiphids. A rather irritated Hutt had punched Obi-Wan into two days of pain. The
ship was seemingly divided in two.
Offworld was one of the oldest and richest mining
companies of its time in the galaxy. And they hadnt gotten that way by exactly
legal terms. On the outer rim worlds the majority of their workers where slaves
or indentured servants pressured into signing a lengthy contract. Rival Mining
Companies that faced them tended to die offor have a great catastrophe that
allows them to be bought out.
With a twinge of regret he remembered Varristad. Varristad
was a small planet where another mining firm was also working. Varristad was
without air, so the workers all lived in a huge underground dome. Someone or
something popped a hole in that dome, instantly destroying the artificial
atmosphere and killing a quarter of a million people. No one was ever able to
prove that Offworld did it, but when the other company went bankrupt, Offworld
bought the mineral rights for practically nothing.
The leader of that group was Xanatos. Qui-Gons second
apprentice. The one that had betrayed Qui-Gon for the wealth of his father.
And made my first few Padawan years hell in the
process.
Luckily, Obi-Wan doubted hed have to deal with
Xanatoss presence just yet. The biggest problem on this ship was Jemba, a huge
Hutt that was in charge of the Bandomeer operation. Coincidentally, Jemba also
had been in charge of the Varristad chapter for a while.
Even in my youth I never had very much luck.
The other side, the side Obi-Wan was to work with,
were the Arcona Mineral Harvest Corporation. Arcona was a small start up firm
hoping to work out of Bandomeer. They employed mainly Humans and Arconans. They
seemingly worked with a clean slate, though Obi-Wan knew from experience that
no organization was without its flaws.
Their leader was a Board of Directors but the leader
of this small expedition was ChatHa, a vibrant Human woman who believed in her
companies mission fiercely. He could still vaguely picture her face in his
mind.
The relationship between the two companies was almost
non-existence. There was a virtual war going on between the two.
It wasnt long before Obi-Wan had found a crewmember. The
Human Mechanic cheerfully led him to his Cabin and told him to stay in it until
he knew the ship better. He didnt want to be running into any Hutts now. Obi-Wan
nearly choked as the irony of the statement kicked in.
His cabin was small, containing a sleep couch against
a window, a small table and chair and a tiny refresher unit. Sitting on his bed
Obi-Wan allowed himself to fall into a meditated state. He needed to prepare,
to think of what he would do on Bandomeer.
Obi-Wan desperately wanted to be Qui-Gons Padawan
once again, but he was hesitant to try and sway Qui-Gon to that course himself.
If the Force truly wanted him to be with his Master again, then he would be. And
if notif nothe would see where the Force guided him. Perhaps he would go to
Tantoone and free Shimi, wait by her side until Anakin was born. Then whisk the
boy off to the
He sighed as he thought further on. What if he did
become Qui-Gons Padawan again? How was he even to start to pull apart the
Siths claws from this world? Their entire existence depended on their ability
to stay hidden. And they were damned good at it. Xanatos would have to die. That
was a must. Obi-Wan could ill afford Xanatos and Palpatine working together. But
an even greater problem loomed on his mind.
Even if he managed to get solid proof of the Siths
existence, and that in itself was a major if, how was he to expose them? At
this point he wasnt even clear of how many there was!
How will I convince the Jedi of this?
For a horrible moment Obi-Wan could see himself
standing before the Jedi Council, hearing their disbelieving words condemning
themselves. That he would bare witness to a second fall of the Jedi. He shook
his head.
No. I wont allow it to come to that. Not this time.
They would have to believe him. Anakin wasnt a
necessary to the downfall of the Jedi. Yes, he had aided Palpatine strongly.
But Palpatine could easily find another boy who felt lost and train them. After
allhe had Darth Maul did he not?
Anakin was so strong in the Force
The ache in his heart made itself known again and Obi-Wan
took deep calming breaths, trying to calm and slow his heartbeats in hope that
would settle the pain.
The Jedi had counted on the Republic too much. They
served it in almost blindness. He knew that some of the older Jedi felt that
the Jedi had become to closely matched to the Senate, especially after the
Clone Army had become the official army of the Republic. And the Jedi became
its leaders.
It was such a complicated issue. So many different
problems to isolate and divulge into. So many different paths to examine. So
many different things he could do with this extra time granted to him. So busy
was his mind that he almost missed the slight stress in the Force. The gentle
disturbance that whispered silently of unrest on the ship.
The sight that met
Obi-Wans eyes screamed of conflict. Qui-Gon
stood near ChatHa, his entire posture radiating calmness as he tried to disarm
the situation. The Human womans hand quivered against the handle of her
blaster.
Excuse me, Jemba, ChatHa said in mock politeness. But
its not unreasonable to hate a lying, scheming, cowardly murderer. Jembas
eyes widened as his entire body puffed out in indignation.
We have not even reached Bandomeer, Jemba boomed,
and this woman tries to discredit me before the mining guild. Now she tries to
frame me! Listen to how she talks to me. There is not respect in her voice!
I may not respect you Jemba, ChatHa spat back, but
I certainly didnt frame you. Your lies are as pathetic as your denials.
Obi-Wan saw the strike before it happened. The muscles
of the Hutt constricted as he shot forward menacingly. With a cry ChatHa drew
her blaster. In an incredibly brave act Qui-Gon thrust himself between the
charging Hutt and armed woman. The Force filled the room quickly, carrying the
ever-strong will of Qui-Gon Jinn with it.
Enough! And miraculously they listened. The Hutt
ceased mid-charge and ChatHa lowered her blaster. Qui-Gon shot her a look.
Rolling her eyes the woman slip the blaster back into the leg holster.
Now, Qui-Gon began in a reasonable tone, let us
review the situation. The machines were sabotaged. Yet both of you insist you
did not do it. There is nowhere to take this except open warfare. Qui-Gon
looked at each of them in turn. And that is something that neither of you wish
for, Im sure.
Jedi, Jemba growled, you think yourself to be a
fair man. But when Hutts and Humans argue, even the fairest of men join sides
against my kind.
Obi-Wans brow furled as he watched Jemba argue. He
could still remember when he thought Jemba the evilest thing he had ever
encountered. Of course, that was because Jemba had been the evilest thing hed
ever encountered, at the time. It was the first evil he had come into contact
out of the safety and padding of the
It struck him odd now, as he stared at the Hutt. Obi-Wan
had seen many terrible things in his years as a field agent. Many terrible
things. But for some reason, he could still remember the anger and solid
feeling of wrongness he had first felt against this Hutt.
Now, as he watched the argument, he felt a strange
longing towards the Hutt. He wished dearly that he could be back in those days,
when a murderous Hutt was the greatest evil he had ever known. Once again
Obi-Wan found himself longing for the innocence of his childhood.
Ungrateful twit. Its not like you didnt get to
experience it the first time.
Obi-Wan chewed on his bottom lip in thought. He
wondered how healthy it was that he talked to himself as much as he did
It wasnt until he caught movement out of the corner
of his eye did he realize that the argument had ended. ChatHa made her way
over to him, a broad smile on her face.
You must be Kenobi, the young Jedi. Welcome aboard.
Smiling Obi-Wan took the extended hand, almost wincing as she shook it powerfully.
I trust you found your room alright?
One of your mechanics led me. Obi-Wan admitted with
a smile. Seems like you have a war going on here. ChatHa let out a disgusted
grunt and crossed her arms.
Well there was going to be one if it wasnt for
Master Jinn here. ChatHa sent the approaching Qui-Gon a brilliant smile. I
apologize if I wasnt helping Master Jinn, but Im afraid I get worked up when
I hate things.
Qui-Gon dismissed her apology with a wave of his hand.
Quite all right.
Obi-Wan chuckled before another movement caught his
eye. Hidden in a nook of the corridor stood a very familiar Arconan stood
there, his eyes flashing to and fro nervously. As if feeling the weight of his
eyes Si Treemba looked up. With a small squeak he fled the area. Obi-Wan let
out a sigh. Apparently since he did not allow himself to be punched by a Hutt
he and the young Arconan may not meet.
Dont feel bad. Im sure you didnt do anything but
give him a little scare. ChatHa assured Obi-Wan gently. Arconans are a
flighty race. They arent really one for confrontations of any kind. Obi-Wan
nodded and turned to look at the two adults in the room.
What happened to start the argument?
Jemba stole our thermocoms and sabotaged our coring
couplers. ChatHa said in a tired voice, sending a glare in the directing that
the Hutt had slid off. Realizing that there was probably no possible way that a
twelve-year-old boy would know what thermocoms or coring couplers where he
promptly asked.
The thermocoms are used to monitor Arconan tunnelers.
Tunnelers are vehicles that drill through rock and soil. As they do, the
friction of the hull moving past all that stone makes the vehicle very hot. Qui-Gon
explained. Without the thermocoms, the cooling system would not work. And with
the coring couplers sabotaged, the driver of the tunneler would not be able to
shut it off.
So the machine would melt. Obi-Wan finished,
Killing everyone inside it. Grimly ChatHa nodded.
Theyre clever beasts Ill give them that. Sighing
ChatHa rubbed her forehead. I have to go report this to Head Base, Obi-Wan do
you think you could show Qui-Gon to his cabin? It should be near yours.
Obi-Wan nodded and watched the weary woman walk off, muttering to herself under
her breath.
This way Master Jinn. Obi-Wan turned and led the
Master back down the hallway. What do you take off the situation? Qui-Gon
frowned and crossed his arms, his hands disappearing in the deep sleeves of his
robe.
There are many different things that could be true,
Qui-Gon said as he walked, keeping his eyes focused on the hall in front of
them. Jemba could have arranged it. It may very well be that ChatHa is indeed
be trying to frame Jemba. Or it could be so over stimulated workers on either
side. But that Obi-Wan, The Jedi stopped walking and turned to face Obi-Wan, a
stern look on his face. is not any of your concern. Do not get involved with
this.
Ouch.
Do not worry Master Jinn, I will do my best to stay
uninvolved. Obi-Wan ignored the suspicious glare that followed him and led the
Master to his room. Bowing he excused himself and disappeared into his own.
With a small leap he sprawled over his bed, choosing not to question the odd
scent of his bed cloths.
Hed forgotten how cold his former Master could truly
be if he wanted to. A yawn escaped his lips and Obi-Wan flipped onto his
stomach, kicking off his boots and pulling the heavy comforter over himself. Reaching
out with the Force Obi-Wan dimmed the room. He yawned again, snuggling into the
warmth.
Its a start. At least its a start.
Qui-Gon swung his
legs over his sleep-couch. He felt his
heart pound in his chest, every muscle on alert. But why?
He had been resting when he had sensed it. It felt as
though danger was near, but Qui-Gon was not in dangerSuddenly he recognized
the feeling. He had experienced it before. Jedi sometimes sense when another
Jedi, close to them, is in trouble. At times, they can even see a vague picture
of what that trouble might be. Qui-Gon searched his mind, but did not see anything
clear. Only haze.
Obi-Wan. He murmured. It had to be the boy. Qui-Gon
fought against the feeling. It was ridiculous, absurd. The boy was not his
Padawan. Why would there be such a strong connection between them?
Yet there was. Yoda would be pleased.
Qui-Gon groaned. He was not.
The boy had proven himself an enigma to Qui-Gon, and
he wasnt particularly fond of mysteries. The pull he had felt towards the boy
since he had first seen him fight had not gone away. Instead it lingered, the
smallest thread of connection to which he attributed the feeling of danger.
And Qui-Gon did not like it at all.
He had felt this way beforetowards another boy. And
that boy had betrayed in him. Had fallen to the dark side. Qui-Gon felt his
resolve strengthen as he thought of Xanatos. He refused to experience that pain
again. Still, even has he calmed his breathing the feeling of danger and fear
did not pass.
Qui-Gon sighed as he laid back down onto the
sleep-couch. But this time, although he could quiet his body, he could not
quiet his mind. With a sigh Qui-Gon gave in, gathering the Force around him and
sending it out in a gentle probe. It found Obi-Wan was still in his room. The
Force also brought back whispering of the boys distress.
For Obi-Wan was indeed in distress. Sweat lined his
brow and his tangled limbs struggled violently in the confines of the
comforter. His breath was quick, his chest heaving with the effort to keep up. His
eyes moved back in forward rapidly, giving his drawn, white face a sinister
look.
Obi-Wan awoke with a gasp. He struggled from the
comforter, nearly falling against the floor in the process. He laid against the
cold metal, easily seeping through the weak rug that was placed over it. He
forced himself into the fresher, drinking water with ragged breaths from the
faucet there.
He fought to calm himself, focusing on the cool water
flowing down his throat instead of the ripping sensation in his chest and the
memories that threatened to overtake him. After a few sips he felt a little
more steady and washed his face and neck with cold water, steadying his breaths
until he felt like he had the regiments of control.
Obi-Wan turned back to his room and shook his head. This
place was to confining. He couldnt stay here. Not now. He need to walk, move,
anything to keep his mind accepted. Pulling his robe on he quickly reattached
his lightsaber and escaped the small room.
Couldnt sleep? ChatHa asked as she seated herself
next to the brooding Jedi Master.
No. Qui-Gon said darkly as he sipped his drink.
You look tense.
Thats because I am. He snapped. Qui-Gon sighed when
he saw the look on ChatHas face. Im sorry ChatHa, Im just not in the best
of moods right now. I apologize for having taken it out on you.
Its alright Master Jinn, Im afraid I understand
your pain all to well. She flicked her finger towards the menu and ordered
herself a rather stiff drink. Qui-Gon rose an eyebrow. The call to Head Base
must not have been a pleasant one. Noticing his look she finished the drink
off.
They werent to happy about this situation back at
Head Base. Qui-Gon nodded in sympathy as she ordered another drink. He stared
down at his own.
He couldnt get Obi-Wan out of his mind. Though the
panic had left he still found himself with the slightest urge to go check on
the boy. He stomped that urge out. It was unreasonable! How could he possibly
have a bond with the boy? Hed known him all of two days! Images of Xanatos
flashed through his mind.
No, Qui-Gon insisted, I am not shrugging the boy off
unfairly. Obi-Wan was too arrogant. He could fall. Nodding to himself with
particular conviction he finished the drink. It would be good for Obi-Wan, to
be a farmer. It would teach him some humility.
Why did this boy plague his thoughts! He should be
concentrating on the issue at hand, not whether or not farming was be best for
Obi-Wan Kenobi! But alas, even as he was centering his mind on the mission he
felt a familiar Force signature approaching. Qui-Gon let out something that
could closely resemble a growl. Could he find no peace from this child?
As if on clue the galley doors opened to reveal
Obi-Wan. The boy took one look around, spotted him and ChatHa and immediately
slammed his hand out. The doors hissed shut. Qui-Gon blinked. Whatever he had
been expecting, that had not been it.
Is Obi-Wan alright? ChatHa asked quietly from
beside him. Qui-Gon shrugged, staring at the door thoughtfully. Had the boy
just run from him? He didnt look alright. ChatHa continued, stirring her
drink. In fact he looked terrible.
The feeling from before began to seep back into his
mind and Qui-Gon frowned, staring at the closed door.
Obi-Wan hurried
along, hoping to put as much distance between himself and the galley. He had known through the Force that Qui-Gon had been
in there. But seeing both the irritated Jedi Master and ChatHa had been too
much for him.
The last thing I want to deal with is explaining
myself to Qui-Gon Jinn.
Obi-Wan stopped to catch his breath, leaning against
the wall. He tried to center his breathing; it was coming to quickly for his
tastes. It didnt help that once again his heart was one again on fire. In the
back of his mind the dream ran itself over and over again. Once again he had
been on that planet. And the lava was around him. And his Padawan was standing
against him.
Please! Calm down!
Almost as if it had heard him the burning sensation
began to leave him. Obi-Wans hand lessened its grip on his tunic and he
closed his eyes, trying once again to bring his breathing to an even level. Somehow
he had ended up on the floor, the cold metal comfortable on his heated skin. Beads
of sweat rolled down from his damp hair, leaving a temporary trail of coolness
in their wake.
This cant go on.
Somehow, someway, he was going to have to find out how
to make this pain stop. Or at least make it lessen. Obi-Wan pulled himself up
and groaned. Only to be thrown back again as the shipped rock dangerously.
What?
The Force was screaming warnings at him as Obi-Wan
sprinted to the nearest viewing window. He let out a gasp at what he saw.
The Pirates! How could I have forgotten the Pirates!
Cursing himself in nearly ever language he knew
Obi-Wan watched helplessly as the Pirates ships drew closer to the ship. They
were Togorains. Beasts that were nearly twice the size of a normal man. Obi-Wan
started the cursing train all over again. Dealing with Togorains was difficult,
even for a seasoned Jedi. The eruption of small blasters from his left meant
one thing.
The Pirates had boarded.
Drawing his lightsaber Obi-Wan headed towards the
sound at a dead run.
With the Force aiding his speed Obi-Wan reached the
scene of the battle with in a few moments. A scream of battle escaped his mouth
as he leapt into the fray, lightsaber igniting brilliantly. He somersaulted as
he flew through the air, Force pulling a Togorain away from the cornered group
of Arconans. He landed lightly at their feet, his back foot sliding back in a
defense position.
The soft whines of the Arconans picked up in volume
as the now recovered Togorain charged. With a quick slash he brought the
Togorain down. Only to stare at the ever growing number of them coming through
the port way. Obi-Wan braced himself for a hard fight, he dropped any pretense
of childhood and adopted the mannerisms of his adult life. His body twisted
itself into a familiar stance that Obi-Wan would not be learning for another
few years. He opened his mind to the Force, allowing it to swamp his mind with
warnings.
A low bellow filled the air as a lone Togorain charged
Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan ducked the blow of its axe and dipped under the beasts arms.
The Togorain whipped around angrily, raising its axe high in the air for a
second strike. Obi-Wan leapt backwards easily missing its first attempt and
just nearly its second. Obi-Wan slashed out rapidly as he shot back, the axe
only just missing his head. The Togorain let out a scream as it fell backwards,
shallow cuts on both its kneecaps. With a quick motion the Pirate was
decapitated.
The whine of the Arconans increased and Obi-Wans
head shot up. A Togorain was making its way towards them, a triple headed axe
looming dangerously at its side. A quick motion of his hand sent a pile of
debris at the thing's head. It swung around, a sneer on its face.
Obi-Wan motioned for it with his lightsaber and fell
back into a lower fighting stance. The Togorain charged him. Once again Obi-Wan
used his height as advantage and evaded the Pirates erratic swings. The floor
exploded to Obi-Wans left and the Pirate let out a scream as electrical jolts
shot up from the floor. He had managed to pierce the protective cables around
the ships wires.
Obi-Wan threw himself back from the smoking Togorain. The
Pirate slumped silently, the light flickering before going out completely. The
only light in the room was brought about by the soft blue of his Lightsaber. Obi-Wan
stared at the Togorains, they stared back at him. Sweat rolled down his
forehead. Obi-Wan didnt know why they had stopped but he took this moment to
collect himself. His entire body felt like it was on fire.
His grip on his lightsaber was slick and his clothes
stuck to him like a second skin. This was not what he needed. His entire body
screamed of exhaustion, the memory of the pain in his heart still hovering in
his chest.
What are they waiting for?
A grinding sound filled his ears and Obi-Wan glared
into the darkness, trying to peer behind the line of Togorains that stared at
him hatefully.
I have a bad feeling about this. He muttered,
readjusting his grip on his Lightsaber. Obi-Wans eyes widened slightly as the
Togorains pulled apart, making a path. Two Togorains came into his view, one
really gigantic even by Togorain standards, the others very short, almost to
Qui-Gons height. Obi-Wan felt dread fill himself as the two drew their
weapons. Obi-Wan shot a glance at the frightened Arconans behind him. Then
back at the Togorains.
They had both activated energy shields. Obi-Wan
swallowed.
This is not good.
Qui-Gon froze mid
battle, his eyes widening as the feeling from before, intensified a hundred
fold, filled his mind. ChatHa pulled him
out of the way as the Togorains axes path.
Obi-Wan!
Pay attention! She snapped. The warning in Qui-Gons
mind still distracted him, but he was able to avoid the next strike by the
Togorain. With a sift backslash he caught the Pirate at unawares and killed it.
Whats wrong? ChatHa screamed over the blaster fire.
Obi-Wan! Qui-Gon shouted back, ducking behind a
crate as the blaster fire began to intensify. I must go to him!
I cant hold them alone! ChatHa shouted back, her
blaster held above her head and firing in random directions.
I know!.
Are you suggestion we run away? ChatHa stopped
firing and stared at him. The anxiety in his mind kicked itself up a notch.
I have to go ChatHa! Hes in trouble! Qui-Gons
voice was strong with conviction. Kenobi was not his Padawan, but hed be
damned if he allowed the boy to die on his watch. ChatHa let out a curse as
she fired once more.
Cover me! The relief was almost visible on his
features as ChatHa backed up towards the door, the quick movement of Qui-Gons
lightsaber protecting her retreat.
There was little
warning before the two Togorains broke into charge, their roars echoing
painfully in his ears. Obi-Wan raised his
lightsaber in defense but was taken aback as the Togorain charged him stopped
dead. The Smaller One leapt in front of him, taking up his charge. Obi-Wan
charged forward to met him only to stop midway as the Smaller One hit the deck
and the Taller Ones blaster erupted into fire.
The whine of the Arconans turned into a scream as one
of the blaster bolts managed to get past him, burning a hole shortly before the
Arconans. In his attempt to fend off the bolts Obi-Wan had lost tract of the
Smaller One in the dark, barely managing to duck as the Smaller Ones axe leapt
out. Obi-Wan rolled out of the way, the blaster bolts erupting before him. Obi-Wan
somersaulted into a jump, slashing out at the Taller Ones blaster as he went. The
Taller One screamed and dropped the hissing blaster, the Smaller One was
already half to Obi-Wan as he landed. He barely managed to pull out of the way
as the things double axes swiped at him.
Obi-Wan let out a scream as a blaster bolt ripped
through his calf and he stumbled backwards, his lightsaber flying from his
hands as he gripped his leg. The Taller One had received a new blaster. The
Smaller One stood over him, a sneer on its hairy face.
Now you die, Jedi.
Obi-Wan closed his eyes, fighting the pain from his
calf and the heat of the fever that ravaged his body.
Not like this!
Not like this!
Qui-Gon almost stumbled as the words filtered across
his mind. The sense of dread grew in his chest and he increased his Force
sprint. ChatHa was a strong woman, she could protect herself. Qui-Gon sped
even quicker through the darkened hallways, the Force allowing him to see in
the dark in a way no Human could. Qui-Gon almost sighed in relief as he saw his
destination; a soft blue light emitting from one of the rooms.
The feeling of relief died instantly upon entering the
room. The bodies of Arconan littered the room. One was still alive, a small
Togorain standing over it, a sneer on its face, Obi-Wans lightsaber in its
hand and raised for kill. Qui-Gon called the Force ripping the Lightsaber for
the Togorain and whipping his own out in a vertical chop, easily taking the
Pirates life.. The Togorains body stumbled backwards.
Run! The Arconan did not need to hear his command
twice. He fled from the room with a speed that he had rarely seen their race
use. With a low buzz the lights flicker red and an alarm filled the room. The
pot way the Togorains had rigged open was closing. With a cry the remaining
Togorains retreated towards it. Qui-Gon reached it as it sealed with a hiss.
Qui-Gon stared at the sealed door helplessly.
Where was Obi-Wan?
Qui-Gon! ChatHa cry filled the room. Glancing
around the room he located the source of the noise. Palming the calm unit on
ChatHas tiny figure filled the room. Get to the bridge now!
Obi-Wan came to
with a scream, his entire body shaking as pain radiated from his ribs.
That was your first rib Human. The Togorain growled.
The skull that dangled from his neck almost touched Obi-Wans chin. And this
is your second. This time Obi-Wan was able to keep the cry in, jerking widely
as the handle of the Togorains war axe slammed down.
The Togorain laughed.
Obi-Wan sighed as the grey spots grew larger,
unconsciousness encroaching in response to the pain.
No you dont. With a sharp jerk Obi-Wan was hanging
vertically, the Togorains hand gripping his jaw. Streaks of white shot up
Obi-Wans vision. The sharp pain banishing any hopes of passing out. Your
Master is putting up quite a fight baby Jedi. The Togorain snarled. But I
have killed your kind before. I will not fail this time.
Dropping his hand down the Togorain dragged the
struggling Obi-Wan behind him.
Obi-Wan fought to focus himself, to get his mind to
focus on calling the Force to his aid, but the lack of air and pain was keeping
him from making a clear connection. With a gasp the hold on his neck was
released and retaken on his hair. A thumb jammed painfully into the back of
Obi-Wans neck and then he was let go, his head smacking onto the floor loudly.
Obi-Wan laid still, fighting to make himself ignore the jolting pain from the
broken rips and take the deep breathes he new was necessary to calm his
battered body.
Boy. The Togorain growled, his face coming close to
his own. Try to move. Obi-Wan blinked stared at him distrustfully, then tried
to wiggle his fingers. They didnt respond. Panic assaulted his mind as he
tried to move again, this time his leg. Then his arm. Then his big toe.
Nothing was responding. The panic grew
Stop that! Stop panicking for Force sake and think!
Calm down boy. It'll wear off ina few hours. Until
then be a good boy and keep quite. Obi-Wan gasped as a the Pirates cloak
covered him, almost making him choke on its heavy scent.
The floor vibrated with the heavy step of the Pirates.
Obi-Wan fought to keep his breath even, taking measures to calm down. He had to
regain his center. With that, he could find his way out of anything.
Why have you hailed us? The voice of ChatHa all but
yelled across the Com. If you think we will surrender you are sorely
mistaken.
I will speak only with the Jedi. The Togorain said
harshly. And certainly not with a fool woman. Obi-Wan wasnt sure but he
could of sworn that ChatHa had just growledA silence prevailed for a few
moments. And then ChatHa reappeared.
The Jedi, ChatHa hissed, will not allow you to get
away with this.
We fear no Jedi. Besides, The Space Pirate said
confidently, we have jammed your signal. No help will come for you. You little
blockade will not work. Blast doors only work for so long.
Dont you dare think you have us beaten you little-
The voice was cut off and the Togorains chuckled. Obi-Wan breathing had finally
become calmer, but they were still far to shallow for his like. The pain from
his rips were preventing him from doing much.
I am Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn. Who am I speaking to?
The Togorain voice was full of self-pleasure and
mirth. I knew you would come before me Jedi. Qui-Gon did not answer. I am
Captain Yuma. And this ship is mine.
You have yet to take it. Qui-Gon answered in a low
voice.
Of little matter. The Captain replied. I will have
it soon. The silence filled the room. Obi-Wan itched to know what was going
on.
What have you done with the boy? Qui-Gons voice was
curt and irritated; a tone Obi-Wan rarely heard him use.
You mean this one? The cloak was torn from him and a
Togorain held him up by the collar of his robes. Obi-Wan fought to be able to
bring himself to look up at the screen. It proved in vein though, and his body
continued to lay bonelessly until a rough jerk on his hair brought his eyes to
look at the screen.
He felt the Force brush his mind and closed his eyes
in pleasure at the long forgotten touch of his Masters Mind.
It had been an
alarming instinctual action. When the
Togorain had lifted the motionless boy Qui-Gon had reached for the boys mind. But
still he had to fight the shock that filled him as he made such easy contact. It
was not suppose to be this easy.
His soft brush across the boys mind had given him the
information he was seeking. One of the boys ribs was broken, a second badly
fractured. The boys jaw, though quickly brushing to a dark purple only had two
or more hairline fractures. A fever was raging through his body, something
Qui-Gon assumed was already there. It was most likely the factor for why the
boy had looked so discontent earlier. All in all, nothing that couldnt be
fixed.
But there was something else that his shallow scan had
only hinted atsomething elusive. Something he couldnt access to.
Is this yours Jedi? Captain Yuma asked, his grin
wide and toothy. Let down your blast doors and the boy will be allowed to
live.
Qui-Gon stiffened. There was a basic bond between all
Jedi to start off with, and the Order did everything in it's power to encourage
the bond's strength. From the beginning Jediwere taught that the Order was
their family. Their Fathers, their Mothers, their Sisters and
Brothers.Regardless of bloodline or appearance they were all unified through
the Force. And now he was being asked to chose between the safety of the masses
against the safety of one of his own. It was a choice Qui-Gon desperately
didnt want to make.
I shall give you an hour to decide.
And then the screen went blank.
Rhiw