There is the Force
Chapter 1: Unconventional Circumstances
Two of the Noharan moons were high and full in the
sky and a third was on the rise, bringing a beautiful shimmering brightness to
the deep night hours. Soft winds danced across the planet, gently caressing its
surface and all who stood upon it, while lush smells of fragrant vegetation filled
the air. Rhythmic sounds of tiny creatures created a natural music that was
soothing to the ear. The whole planet was a beautiful world, but tucked away in
a quiet oasis it took on a setting close to paradise.
Obi-Wan Kenobi and Siri Tachi
had left the government palace where they had been staying to enjoy the magic
of the night in the small lagoon-like area that had been pointed out to Obi-Wan
when they first arrived on Nohar. They were supposed
to be on the planet mediating negotiations, but neither of them could
understand why they were really needed. The Townships of this small world
seemed to be working out their differences without any problems and certainly
without any real need of the Jedi.
Earlier that evening, once the meetings had ended, Obi-Wan asked Siri if she would join him and come to the lagoon. The
friends agreed it would be nice to have some time alone, so they left their Padawans in their quarters and slipped out unnoticed well
after dark.
When they arrived at the small very private oasis, they were not only greeted
by its visual beauty, but they could also sense a strong pull in the Force as
well. The area was full of life and its loveliness touched them deep within. It
was rare to find such a place of perfection to while away the time in.
Immediately, they stripped off their Jedi cloaks and tunics to their
undergarments and plunged into the pool.
The water was relaxing and warm. A soft breeze floated across the surface,
making tiny ripples in the pond and Siri bathed and
played in the water with delight as she manipulated the liquid with the Force.
She and Obi-Wan had already been there for over an hour and she was still not
ready to leave. Her skin was definitely wrinkling, but she didn't care. Obi-Wan
had gotten out and was sitting on the soft sandy edge
of the pool, watching her. Though Siri had her back
to him, she was aware of his gaze and was wondering what had him so enamored of
what she was doing.
"Are you going to spend all night watching me or are you going to come
back in?" She finally glanced around at him.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to stare, I was just
enjoying the way you make the water fountain up in various places."
Obi-Wan let out a long sigh. "It's just so relaxing out here. I can't
remember when the last time was that I enjoyed peace like this. I think
everything here has me mesmerized."
Siri turned to face Obi-Wan and dipped down into the
water until it covered her shoulders. Then, using the Force, she gently blew
across the surface of the water towards Obi-Wan and tiny droplets wafted over
him. He smiled at her as he stretched out his arms to capture the mist.
"I'm going to have a hard time leaving here that's for sure," Siri said, as she smiled back at him.
Obi-Wan put his arms around his bent knees and looked up into the sky. The
sight of the triple moons caught his interest. "Look, Siri,
that third moon is almost aligned with the others and it is as full as they
are, too."
When Siri looked up she noticed the light of the
third moon creeping across the lagoon, bringing with it a luminous shine.
She heard a small gasp leave Obi-Wan. "Siri,
you're starting to glow!"
Siri looked down at the wet camisole that was
clinging to her body and noticed layers of light starting to peel off her arms
and chest. She looked up to see the light sweep towards Obi-wan like a wave and
noticed that light was starting to emanate from his bare chest and arms as
well. "Me! Look at you! You're glowing, too, Obi-Wan!"
"I've never seen anything like this before," Obi-Wan stated as he looked
down and watched the light draw over him.
Siri came out of the water and sat next to him. She
grinned as she too watched the light dance across them. "Maybe this is
what Master Yoda means when he says, 'luminous beings are we, not this crude
matter.'"
Obi-Wan laughed as he reached out towards Siri's
shoulder to touch it. His fingers seemed to disappear up to his knuckles into
the light that was rippling off of her and she squirmed slightly under the
touch.
"Are you ticklish?" he asked.
"No. It just feels strange," she replied as she pulled back. Then she
reached out towards him to touch his shoulder and watched, as her fingers
seemed to disappear in the waves of light. She felt a soft sucking pull when
she pulled her fingers back away from him. He squirmed under her touch.
"You're ticklish!' she grinned.
"No. It's like you said, it just feels strange."
They reached out towards each other again and let their fingers disappear into
the light. They were drawn to the tactile sensations that the auras were
producing. Siri laid her hands flat on Obi-Wan's chest and watched as the light bled over them. The
soft sucking sensation made the palms of her hands tingle and caused her to
catch her breath. Siri giggled as Obi-Wan put his
hands gently around her waist and they disappeared under the light. Fascinated,
they continued to play like children under a spell, touching and squirming
until they found themselves rolling on the bank laughing and trying to catch
their breath.
Soon Siri found herself gently pinned under Obi-Wan
and she was staring into his blue gray eyes. Both were trying to regain a calm
breathing pattern, but the atmosphere was bearing down on them heavily and
breathing had become difficult. Siri then noticed a
look of concern in Obi-Wan's eyes. "What is
it?" she questioned trying to pull some air into her lungs.
"Oh, Siri," a look of bewilderment crossed
over his face, "we have to release the energy."
As the meaning of what he was saying registered in her mind, she became
horrified. "Oh no...no, no! You can't mean what I
think you mean, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and we don't have to release anything!"
"You're right...you're right." His voice sounded desperate as he
tried to find his calm center. "We just need to separate, carefully."
With that Obi-Wan attempted to move away from Siri
and she began to wiggle out from under him. As they moved further apart from
each other, however, they each found that breathing became more and more
difficult until it started to reach the point that it felt as though their
chests were going to be crushed. Obi-Wan instinctively grabbed for Siri and pulled her back to him. Once again she was gently
pinned under him.
"What do you suggest, Master Tachi?"
Obi-Wan asked as he looked into her sparkling blue eyes and sucked in some air.
"Do you suppose if we just stay like this the atmosphere will eventually
let up?" she asked hopefully.
Obi-Wan just tilted his eyebrows at her in a 'What do you think?' gesture.
"I have a feeling the Living Force on this planet is looking for a sacrifice
and we're it. One way or another."
For a moment there was an uncomfortable silence between the two friends.
Siri let out deep breath. "We'll laugh about
this later...I hope," she said, trying to lighten the situation.
"Siri, we're Jedi. We have had to get out of
worse situations than this. In the scheme of things, this isn't so bad. Really. All we have to do is cooperate just like any other
mission."
"See what I mean about the humor in this situation? We are about to engage
in a most intimate act between two beings and you have it totally analyzed and
narrowed down into terms of a mission."
"Fine, Siri, I didn't exactly brush up on
romance before coming to this planet but, if you like, we can choose to enjoy
what we have to do and stop fighting it. It may make the breathing
easier."
Siri closed her eyes momentarily and took a deep
breath. She sensed Obi- Wan doing the same thing. It wasn't going to do any
good to make the situation more difficult or uncomfortable than it already was.
There wasn't anyone to blame for this predicament and she could sense Obi-Wan's terrible uneasiness about the whole thing, too.
When Siri opened her eyes, she saw Obi-Wan looking at
her in concern. He moved his cheek next to hers and whispered into her ear.
"I will try to make this as pleasant as possible, Siri."
He reached up and touched her face with his hand as he leaned in to kiss her.
At the very brush of his lips against hers she could feel the heaviness in the
atmosphere arch away from them.
It wasn't that being with Obi-Wan was an unpleasant idea. It was
just...awkward. After all, they were friends. Long time
friends, once rivals. They had to work together, to see each other at
the
Damn!
Siri's hand moved up to touch his bearded cheek and
she kissed him back. The kiss deepened. She began to relax under his touch and
she sensed him relaxing as well. He broke the kiss and looked into her eyes one
more time to be sure she was getting easier with the idea. She grinned at him.
"This could only happen to us. We get ourselves into the strangest
situations."
Obi-Wan touched his forehead to hers and chuckled quietly. "We are
becoming notorious." Obi-Wan closed his eyes and spoke again. "Siri, I do care for you deeply, you know."
"I feel the same way about you, Obi-Wan. I just didn't quite picture this
for us, if you know what I mean."
"Yes, I know exactly what you mean, but I wouldn't want to be here in this
unconventional circumstance with anyone else but you."
The sincere tone in Obi-Wan's voice brought a pleased
smile to Siri's face and she reached up and kissed
him on the lips. Obi-Wan deepened the kiss and warm feelings passed between the
two friends. As they slowly began the process of moving beyond just kissing, Siri softened further under Obi- Wan's
caresses. His touch was incredibly gentle and smooth and naturally produced
pleasant sensations that Siri was not accustomed to
indulging in. She tried to anticipate his moves and respond by retuning his
caresses in kind and she could sense he was also delighting in these unfamiliar
touches.
Siri felt Obi-Wan reach out to her through the Force
and blanket her in his emotions. She let down her shields and reached out to
him with her own feelings. Together they found themselves advancing in perfect
cooperation, and then Obi-Wan made a move that her body was anticipating, even
desiring, but it caught her by surprise just the same and she sucked in her
breath. Deep within he had tapped into feelings of
joy, happiness, wonder and love.
There it was, love. The strong sentiment they both had tried to hold away from
each other before now. It seemed to swell and it began to balloon when she felt
Obi-Wan match the very same feelings within him to hers. The physical pleasures
of their union became secondary to the emotional joys they were experiencing
and though Siri could feel the energy being released
into the atmosphere around them, it was the sensation of spiritually soaring
with Obi-Wan that caused her heart to skip a beat, her body to arch, and her
breath to catch in her lungs.
In the end, it was clear, that from a certain point of view, they had bonded.
When they returned to their physical boundaries, Siri
could feel tears of joy on her cheeks and she saw the same on Obi-Wan's face. He nuzzled his cheek against hers and whispered
into her ear. "You are so beautiful, Siri."
Siri pressed her face into his and whispered back.
"You are a gift, Obi- Wan."
Together they collapsed into each other's arms onto the soft ground. Using the
Force, Obi-Wan called his discarded cloak to his hand and he draped it over the
two of them as he continued to hold Siri close.
They listened to the sounds of the night as a quiet understanding passed
between them. Finally, Siri spoke, "What are we
going to do now, Obi-Wan?"
"What can we do Siri? We will have to leave here
soon and return to being Jedi and all the rules that go with that. It isn't as
though we planned this or sought it out. For a moment I even thought you would
choose being crushed to death over a union with me. We've done nothing more
than survive another mission."
"But we will never be the same."
"No, that's true. Clearly our relationship has changed. I don't suppose
there is much we can do about that, but we can control these feelings just as
we control our other emotions. Outwardly we can make sure no one will notice a
change. Inwardly we can treasure what we have and keep it between us."
Siri hugged him close as she nodded in understanding
of what he said. "I suppose it is up to us to see this as a blessing or a
curse. I would rather view it as a blessing and adjust to it, rather than live
with any resentment or bitterness."
Obi-Wan ran his hand through her still damp hair and smiled. "I'm glad to
hear you say that, Siri. It won't be so bad and maybe
when we're old and we retire, we can be together then."
Siri began to laugh softly and then her laughter
began to build.
Obi-Wan looked at her with a grin. "What?"
"This whole situation is so unbelievable, Obi-Wan. I have never heard a
line as bad as 'we have to release the energy' before and talk about
pressure."
"Funny, Siri!" But Obi-Wan couldn't help
but share in her mirth. Besides, a good sense of humor would probably be the
best way to face what their future would bring.
Chapter 2: The Real
The reception hall was lavishly decorated and the beings of this small
planet were packed in the room. Males and females were dressed in their finest
clothes and the air buzzed with excitement and life.
Obi-Wan found the air a bit stifling, but he adjusted the vest of his formal
attire and proceeded to advance towards the head government dignitaries. Anakin
and Ferus followed behind him.
Ah, Master Kenobi, I see you found the clothes we had delivered to you for
this happy occasion, Leader Dahaar said as he bowed
to Obi-Wan. I trust they fit well?
The fit is perfect, sir, but you neednt have gone to the trouble of providing
special garments for me. Obi-Wan bowed in return.
It is all part of the custom, Master Kenobi, to finely dress our important
Jedi ambassadors after a successful negotiation. Your female companion has also
been given a special ensemble. It is all for the celebration of this happy
event.
Obi-Wan was aware that Siri
hadnt arrived yet and wondered why. Of course, knowing Siri,
trickling in late was not necessarily unusual and if she was asked to don
something less to her liking then she was probably still in her room procrastinating
over it.
Once Master Tachi arrives, the two of you can start
the first dance and the celebration can truly begin. Dahaar
said. Im sure that she will be here soon. It sometimes takes time for the
servants to help with the dress.
Obi-Wan inwardly groaned at that statement. Siri was
probably putting up resistance of some sort if there were servants required to
help her dress. Siri was an extremely independent
woman and being fussed over was not something she could easily give in to. Of
course, she knew that diplomacy was a must on any planet, but Siri had a habit of initial resistance. Obi- Wan only hoped
she was getting along now. He didnt want anything negative to influence the
outcome of the evening.
Leader Dahaar had moved on to greet another guest,
and Obi-Wan turned to the padawans. He noticed that
they were not given special clothes to wear for the evening, but they looked
fine in their Jedi dress and blended in well with everyone else in their
finery.
Master, are you all right?
Yes, Anakin. Why do you ask?
No reason, really. Youve seemed a little distant today, I guess, and I was
wondering if you were feeling well, Anakin commented.
Upon hearing this remark, Ferus spoke up. Master Siri has been distant as well, but I also noticed a strange
glow coming from her. I dont think shes quite herself. Maybe shes not here
yet, because shes sick.
Obi-Wan cleared his throat. Im sure Siri is fine.
We are all just tired and anxious to go home, perhaps.
I wont mind getting off this planet, thats for sure, Anakin said.
Why is that, Padawan? Is the boredom killing you?
This has been one of the easiest missions we have been on in a very long time.
This is a beautiful, peaceful planet and I have enjoyed the quiet of it.
No, Master, thats not it at all. Havent you noticed how thick the living
Force is here? I find it very difficult to breath sometimes.
Like last night! Ferus interjected.
What about last night? Obi-Wan questioned, as he noticed a strange feeling
rising in the pit of his stomach.
Did you feel that, too? Anakin turned to Ferus in
surprise.
Would you two mind telling me what youre talking about? Obi-Wan interrupted.
Late last night the atmosphere became so thick that I thought I would
suffocate. It woke me up, Anakin explained.
It was about the time the three moons were full and directly overhead in the
sky. Ferus added. I was very uncomfortable for
almost an hour when the pressure started to ease.
It was one of the strangest things Ive ever experienced. The atmosphere
seemed to release in waves as it lifted. Anakin looked at Obi-Wan. Surely you
felt it, Master.
Obi-Wan tried to maintain a steady voice as he recalled the events of the night
before. Now that you mention it, Padawan, I did sense
something. I just dont think I would describe it as being as profound as you
just did.
As Anakin and Ferus continued to compare their
experiences, the Leader Dahaar again approached
Obi-Wan. I believe your female is ready to make her entrance. Come.
Obi-Wan followed the leader of Nohar through the
great hall to a grand staircase. Musicians in the back of the great room began
to play a beautiful lilting melody. As Obi-Wan stood at the bottom of the
staircase waiting, Dahaar stepped up a few steps and
raised his arms.
Good people of Nohar, we have come to celebrate the
prospect of another 50 years without planetary devastation. Thanks to the Jedi,
our honored guests, that hope is once again a reality. The room cheered at Dahaars words, but Dahaar raised
his arms again. Now we can begin our celebration. The Knight and his Lady will
begin the first dance.
Inwardly Obi-Wan winced. Siri would have something to
say about being called his lady, he was sure. The whole fuss seemed to be blown
way out of proportion. Obi-Wan and Siri had merely
overseen the talks and as far as he could tell they were more like social
meetings than negotiations. Why the Council had insisted that they stop on this
planet on their way back to the
Obi-Wan looked up as Dahaar stepped off the staircase
and moved aside. At the top of the landing Siri
appeared. She was dressed in a formal gown of fine sapphire blue silk that was
cut low at the neck, tight in the bodice and flared out in a full flowing
skirt. Her blonde hair was pulled back from her face and it sparkled in the
soft lighting. Her fair skin emitted a soft rosy glow. She was...breathtaking.
Anakin leaned towards Obi-Wan from behind and he put his hand on his Masters
shoulder as he whispered in Obi-Wans ear, Breathe,
Master.
Obi-Wan was only vaguely aware of Anakins advice as
he watched Siri drift down the staircase. As she came
closer to him he sensed slight nervousness coming from her, but her face
betrayed no emotion. He moved forward and offered his hand to her as she
reached the bottom step. Together they proceeded to the center of the room as
people parted to let them pass. Once again the music begin
to swell. Obi-Wan bowed to Siri and she curtsied in
return. Then Obi-Wan took Siri in his arms and they
began the dance that the Noharans had been waiting
for to begin the festivities.
They danced together in sync and in quiet through the first arrangement.
Obi-Wan felt captivated by Siris blue eyes that were
twice as vivid than usual due to the color of her
dress. As the second dance began and more beings floated onto the dance floor,
Obi-Wan felt Siri release, into the Force, a sense of
discomfort.
Ob-Wan, if you continue to look at me like that, everyone will know that
something has changed between us.
Obi-Wan cleared his throat and smiled. You look stunning, Siri.
Im sorry. I just cant help myself, but youre right, I had better stop
staring.
I dont understand why these people have put us on such a pedestal. We have
never been of so little help in any negotiation before. They have us dress in
these expensive clothes and I dont know about you, but mine is nothing short
of a torture device. Siri winced slightly as she
continued to move along the dance floor with Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan grinned. Sooner or later he knew Siri would
complain about her clothes. You just cannot put on anything other than your
Jedi tunics without complaining.
Siri released a puff of air. Thats only partly it.
The servants had me put on an undergarment that they call a corset and they
laced it to pull it tight to cinch my waist. I cant breathe. Im certain I
will pass out before the night is over.
That doesnt sound pleasant, Obi-Wan replied.
It isnt. Just be careful, Obi-Wan, and dont make anyone angry. I bet they
have a lot of unique torture devices hidden in the cellar. Siri
flashed him a teasing smile.
Master Jedi. Dahaar had tapped Obi-Wan on the
shoulder and he and Siri stopped their dance. I hate
to interrupt, sir, but my mother the Lady Beka would
like to meet you and your lady.
Of course.
Siri gave Obi-Wan a strange look at the reference to
being called his lady. If I didnt know better Id think he knew something
about what happened last night, Siri whispered only
to Obi-Wan.
That isnt the worst part, Obi-Wan returned. Anakin and Ferus
were asking me if I had trouble breathing when the three moons were full. It
appears they both felt the atmospheric pressure. The moons together must create
some sort of density in the atmosphere.
Dahaar overheard these last words as they were
walking towards an elderly woman who was busy conversing with Ferus and Anakin. That is correct, Master Kenobi. The
density builds up a massive energy that will destroy this planet if it isnt
released.
Obi-Wan felt his cheeks flush at the use of these words. What do you mean
Leader Dahaar?
Surely you must know since you must have released the energy.
Obi-Wan saw Siri squirm uncomfortably as he cleared
his throat. Dahaar continued as they stopped in front
of the Lady Beka. You must have released the energy
or we wouldnt be here right now. The energy build up from the three moons is
so great that it causes massive storms across the entire planet. We would
surely be completely underwater by now if you hadnt provided your services.
Dahaar turned to his mother and proceeded to
introduce her to the Jedi. This is Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and Master Siri Tachi. Dahaar
then turned to Obi-Wan and Siri and completed the
introductions. Masters, this is the Lady Beka.
The elderly woman nodded to them as she spoke. It is always a pleasure to meet
the Jedi. Once again you have provided our home with a valuable service and we
will always be in your debt.
Lady Beka, you overestimate our importance, Siri replied, trying to minimize the special attention.
The elderly woman reached out and gently took Siris
hand. I was here fifty years ago when the Jedi came and provided the same
assistance. You cannot overestimate a service that keeps our homes and families
from being destroyed.
Both the Padawans, having heard the exchange, gave
the Masters a puzzled look. Ferus spoke, I dont
understand what service theyre talking about, Master. Do you?
Obi-Wan felt blood rush to his head and his ears started to throb. He looked
over to Siri, who was beginning to turn a deep shade
of crimson and trying desperately to maintain a steady breathing pattern
A smile graced the Lady Bekas
wrinkled face as she turned towards the questioner. Youre Masters released
the energy build up, of course. Only two Force sensitive beings can do so.
Every fifty years all three Noharan moons align and
are full causing a tremendous energy build up across the planet. A thousand
years ago, when our society was more primitive, we used to sacrifice beings
with these Force powers until the Jedi came to our planet and realized the
energy could be released in a different way.
Lady Beka turned back to Siri,
The exchange is usually mutually beneficial because the Jedi save our planet
and in exchange end up with Force sensitive children for their community.
Obi-Wan could feel Siri tense through the force as
the concepts began to thread together in her mind. Obi-Wan, too, felt
overwhelmed.
Then there are Force sensitive children we will take with us when we leave the
planet tomorrow? Siris voice seemed to be a pitch
higher than usual as she asked the question. She had a smile on her face, but
her body was rigid.
The older woman smiled and patted Siris hand. Oh no
dear, you will have the children yourself and may you be blessed with the
traditional triplets.
Obi-Wans mind whirled madly and he sensed an acute
disturbance in the Force. He heard Ferus call out
Master! and saw him reach for Siri as a rush of air
escaped her lungs and she fell to the floor in a heap of silk and crinoline
skirts.
Chapter
3: Attachment is Forbidden
The two Master/Padawan teams stood before the Council
to give their reports. Siri tried to keep her
concentration on the moment, but her mind kept wandering back to the events of
the past several days. It had now been close to a week since she and Obi-Wan
had gone for their little midnight swim and she couldnt stop obsessing over
the possible outcome of that evening.
The trip back to the
Then there was the explanation to their Padawans.
Obi-Wan ended up talking to both of them to spare Siri
some embarrassment. She wasnt sure what the outcome of the conversation was,
but Ferus seemed to keep his distance. Maybe that was
just Siris imagination. She was trying to keep her
distance from everyone. Everyday she found herself releasing worry and
frustration into the Force and spending a lot of time in meditation.
Dismissed the Padawans are. Talk to the Masters we
must, Master Yoda said in his commanding voice.
Siri only wished the whole Council wasnt present.
Now she and Obi-Wan were left to stand before the Council alone and she felt
exposed. No one spoke at first and it seemed the silence would kill her, but
she didnt look forward to the inquiry either.
Master Mace Windu was the first to speak. It seems
we owe the two of you an apology for the miscommunication regarding the planet Nohar.
Siri could feel her own former Master reach out to
her through the Force. Relax, Siri, you are not
going to be put on trial here, Adi Gallia said to
her, but that did not relax Siri one bit.
Siri glanced to the floor. She could feel Obi-Wan
shift beside her, but she couldnt look at him. A heavy sigh escaped her lips.
Adi spoke again. It was unfortunate that you were
sent to Nohar and not fully informed as to what your
mission was. We had two other Knights to send on that mission, but they were
lost in transit. They still have not been found. It was imperative we get two
Knights to the planet for the night of the full moons. We discovered you were
finished with your other mission and in the Nohar
sector and we sent you there.
It was my job, Siri, to communicate to you the
delicate nature of what you were responsible to do but, if you recall, our
communication was cut off before I could tell you anything. Obi-Wan had
received the other details about the planet from Master Windu
but the information about the lunar cycles, it appears, was not included. The
fact that you accomplished the mission anyway demonstrates the strong pull of
the Force.
Siri absorbed what Adi was
saying and shifted slightly. And if I have conceived, Master?
A new member to our Jedi family, then we will have, Yoda said.
Suddenly Siri was aware of the Force signatures of
the Council members reaching out to her in a probing manner. It was probable
that conception had already happened and Siri had
tried to determine this through the Force, but couldnt yet tell. She knew that
it was what the Council members were probing for and it only increased her
discomfort.
Siri?
Siri looked up with a painful expression on her face
to see Obi-Wan looking at her with concern. Obi-Wan then turned to the council
members. Perhaps Master Tachi should visit the med
clinic now.
If you would escort her down there, Obi-Wan. I will come down shortly, Adi agreed.
Siri and Obi-Wan had been directed to a private room
in the med clinic to wait as she had blood drawn by a padawan
learner.
Ill take this to be analyzed, Master, but I am sure Healer Trin will be the one to come in and talk to you regarding
the results.
Thank you, Barriss. Obi-Wan acknowledged the padawan.
Siri was sitting silently in a chair with her eyes
cast to the floor. Obi- Wan turned to Siri, pulled up
a chair next to her and sat down. Siri, you have to
talk to me sometime.
Siri felt a sadness wash over her. Im sorry, Obi-Wan, I just dont know what to say. I feel as though Ive
been played with. Siri looked straight into Obi-Wans eyes and held his gaze for a moment. You know,
Obi-Wan, since we were in a situation that forced us together like that and we
were supposed to do what we did, I would understand if you want to take back
anything you said to me that night.
Is that whats been bothering you, Siri, and why
youve barely said two words to me since we have left Nohar?
This whole thing bothers me, Siri replied as she
again lowered her gaze.
Obi-Wan leaned down to look into her eyes. I dont want to take back anything
I said. Do you?
Siri glanced at him as she shook her head. No, but
how do we know what we feel is real? Naturally, we would say such things since
we got so close, under the circumstances.
Obi-Wan took her hand. Its a little like being intoxicated, dont you think?
The feelings were already there, it just took loosening up to admit to them. Siri, I intend to stand beside you through this whole
ordeal.
As much as the Council will allow, you mean.
Obi-Wan let go of Siris hand at the sound of a knock
on the door. In walked Healer Trin,
followed by Adi Gallia.
It is confirmed that you have conceived, Master Tachi.
I suppose congratulations are in order, the healer said.
Siris eyes sparked fire when she looked at the
healer. Trin backed up slightly. I was going to
suggest an exam at this point, but perhaps we could schedule that for another
time.
An excellent idea, Healer Trin.
I think right now it would be better if you left us to discuss this situation,
Master Adi said as she pulled up a chair facing Siri.
Of course, Master Gallia. You may use the room for as
long as you wish. The healer then exited leaving behind the other three.
Okay, Padawan, lets talk. Adi
still often referred to Siri as Padawan,
even though Siri had not been her student for a
number of years now. She meant the term endearingly.
I dont suppose there is a whole lot to say, Master, except that I dont want
to go through with this.
I would have expected you to say that. You have a way of initially resisting
things you dislike, but you always get over it.
With all due respect, I think its a little different this time, Master. Siri could feel her tone of voice becoming increasingly
irritated.
I am not sure that is so, Siri. With every mission,
a Jedi takes risks and many things happen all the time. You know that the
mission comes first. You are a servant of the Republic and therefore subject to
the requests of the Republic. If you had had the information about the lunar
cycle would you have refused to do the job knowing that many lives were at
stake if you did refuse?
Of course not, Master, but being prepared would have been nice.
Adi continued to hold steady eye contact with Siri, until Siri shifted slightly
in her seat. This was an old tactic of Adis when
confronting her former student on anything. Siri had
learned to hold her own gaze many times, but she found herself out of practice
at this moment.
What is really bothering you, Siri? Has something
happened?
No, Master, Siri said, but she began to tap her
foot, an old nervous habit that Adi knew very well.
Adi then took her gaze off of Siri
and looked to Obi-Wan, who remained motionless. Realization began to dawn.
Something did happen between the two of you, didnt it?
Since its Obi-Wans baby,
Master, I would guess so! Siris voice dripped with
sarcasm.
Adi looked again at Siri.
The two of you have experienced a deep bond.
Siri just rolled her eyes as she looked away.
I see, was all Adi could mutter for the moment. The
room was very quiet for what seemed like an eternity to Siri
before Adi decided to speak.
Oh, Siri, Obi-Wan, I am sorry about that. I have to
say it does surprise me a bit, knowing that the two of you have a knack for
getting on each others nerves. Adi grinned at the
thought. I remember a time, Padawan, when you would
storm around and complain about the lame things Obi-Wan Kenobi did. Getting
you to cooperate with Obi-Wan was one of the biggest challenges I ever had with
you.
Adi let out a breath and sat back in her chair. I
know someone who would not be surprised by this, however, and that is Qui-Gon Jinn.
At the sound of his Masters name, Obi-Wan looked up at Adi
Gallia. Qui- Gon?
Yes, Qui-Gon once told me, after trying to
get the two of you to stop bickering and work together, that you would be the
two most likely to fall in love one day. I thought he was joking, but he was
quite serious. He obviously saw something the rest of us did not.
Adi then turned serious again. Of course, you
understand that there is nowhere you can go with these feelings. You both have
made a commitment to the Jedi Order and therefore are not free to make any
other commitments. Furthermore, you are not free to enjoy the benefits that
such commitments would allow.
Yes, Master, we are well aware that attachment is forbidden, Siri answered, but she felt a strange sadness inside. It
does not help us that we are now expecting this baby.
You two are among the most dedicated Knights in the Order. If it helps, I
think this is a burden you will both handle well. Matters may seem complicated,
but I know you will adjust. You will have this baby and give him or her to the
Jedi to raise, just as your parents gave you to the
Jedi. You will not interfere with the upbringing of the child and you will
never hear the child address you as mother or father. I know you will approach
everything like the Jedi you are and have been trained to be. Adis words were stern, but there was an element of
compassion in the tone of her voice.
Suppose there is more than one baby, Master? Or suppose the baby is not Force
sensitive?
I think you know the answer to that, Siri. Any Force
sensitive baby will be put in the nursery and if one is not Force sensitive, we
will find a good home for him or her. I know of several couples that would love
to adopt a child.
I know you both may feel that this all seems somewhat harsh, but it is our
way. You have been to many planets and experienced many cultures. Right here in
the
Obi-Wan, I dont see why you cant be as involved as much as you want in this
pregnancy, as long as it doesnt interfere with any of your duties to the Jedi.
I must stress to both of you, again, that I expect you to conduct yourselves as
Jedi, no matter how deeply you may feel about each other or this child.
Yes, Master, Obi-Wan and Siri said in unison, as if
they had never graduated to the level of Knight.
Adi stood to leave the room when Siri
spoke. Master?
Yes, Siri?
Dont you think everyone will find it strange when I am walking around
the
Siri, you arent concerned about what people will
think are you?
Its crossed my mind that I should exercise some sense of humiliation.
Adi smiled. The fact that you are in the
Adi then left the room and Obi-Wan and Siri were left alone once again.
Siri let out a heavy sigh and moved uncomfortably in
her chair aware that Obi-Wan had said so little during Adis
visit. She wondered what could possibly be going through his mind after the
whole exchange.
Obi-Wan broke the silence with hesitation in his voice. Do you mind if Im
involved in this pregnancy, Siri? he asked as he
reached over and picked up her hand.
Siri liked the feel of his warm hand in hers and she
detected a hint of longing in his voice. She looked at him with a small grin on
her face. As long as you dont get on my nerves, she said, in a teasing
manor.
Obi-Wan smiled in return. I dont know if I could make that promise.
Obi-Wan, Siri asked as she gave him a curious look.
Arent you upset about all this and not getting all the information about Nohar? Dont you think it would have been different if we
knew what we were in for?
Obi-Wan gently laced his fingers through hers. Well, I suppose I could have
brushed up on romance before we got there, but I cant help but feel you would
have spent the evening getting frustrated about where I put my elbows, how fast
I was moving and generally being in your way.
For the first time in a week a smile graced Siris
face and she began to laugh. I hate to admit it, but that is probably true.
Chapter 4: The First Trimester
"Then it's true Obi-Wan? Siri
is expecting triplets?" Bant asked as she pushed
aside her lunch tray.
"It was confirmed by the time she reached her second month. Healer Trin also sensed that the three babies were
fraternal." Obi-Wan couldn't help but feel a little pride over the
situation. He knew that he shouldn't form any attachments to the children, but
for now he let himself indulge a little.
"What about sex, do you know that yet?"
"No, but we may find that out today. Siri said
she would comm me when she got back from the meeting
she had over at the Senate today and we could go down to the med clinic for a
fetal hologram. Do you want to join us?"
"I would love to come along if you think Siri
won't mind." Bant's silver eyes sparkled.
Obi-Wan rested his arms on the table in the dining room where he and Bant had met for lunch. "I don't think she will
mind."
Obi-Wan hadn't seen Siri for more than two months. He
and Anakin had been on missions and hadn't returned to the
The fact was that Siri and Obi-Wan had resumed their
lives as Jedi and, as before, they did not maintain contact with each other
when they were away from the
Obi-Wan's comlink buzzed
and he answered it.
Siri's voice greeted him. "Can you meet me in
the med clinic in one half hour?"
Obi-Wan replied, "No problem. Do you mind if I bring a chaperone?"
Obi-Wan could tell that Sri was smiling on the other end of the comlink. "Sure, lover. I embody the motto 'the more
the merrier' these days."
Obi-Wan flushed a little as he noticed Bant had
overheard the whole exchange. "You have to understand Siri's
sense of humor. We aren't lovers."
Bant couldn't help herself and began to laugh
heartily. "Oh, Obi-Wan, I can't believe you just said that."
"What?"
"I know you very well, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and I have no doubt that you and Siri live by the Code. I am familiar with Siri's sense of humor and slight rebellious streak.
Sometimes I don't think she can help herself, it comes naturally, and I'm sure
that's why you love her."
"You noticed?" Obi-Wan asked in surprise.
Bant shook her head. "I noticed years ago how
you looked at her. You always looked at her differently than anyone else. I'm
just surprised that you finally figured it out."
"What do you mean by that?"
Bant reached over and patted Obi-Wan's
hand. "Obi-Wan, you have a gift when it comes to the Unifying Force, but
when it comes to the Living Force you sometimes don't see what is right under
your nose. If you and Siri hadn't gotten the Nohar assignment, you would still be in the dark about how
you really feel about her. If you were still in the dark about your feelings
after Nohar, I'd worry that you had any connection to
the Living Force at all."
When
Obi-Wan and Bant arrived at the med clinic, Siri was already in an exam room and being prepared for the
fetal hologram. The preparation didn't involve much other than having Siri lay, somewhat propped up on an exam table, with her
tunic pushed up and her pants pushed down below her waist to expose her
abdomen. Only the smallest curve of her lower belly indicated that there had
been any outward change in Siri's body at all.
Ferus was in the room with Siri.
He seemed to have gotten over the initial shock of the whole situation and
became increasingly interested in the whole process his Master was going
through. He always approached the situation with intense shyness, but he didn't
want to miss out on this unique experience that most Jedi never get to have.
Obi-Wan could see that Ferus had a growing sense of
protection towards his Master and it made him feel better that Ferus was watching over Siri,
even though he was sure Siri probably didn't like it.
Ah well, they all had to make adjustments.
Anakin was present at the exam, as well. Like Ferus,
he felt a desire to be in on this experience. He never did say much to Obi-Wan
about the events that had taken place, he just occasionally had a grin on his
face that made Obi-Wan clear his throat and redden. When it was discovered that
Siri would have triplets, Anakin gave Obi-Wan a firm
pat on the back, smiled and only said, "Impressive, Master!"
Obi-Wan moved to the other side of the exam table to stand next to Siri. As the others in the room exchanged greetings,
Obi-Wan took Siri's hand and leaned towards her.
"Do you realize I haven't been this close to you for almost three months."
Siri grinned at him and gave him a wink. "Don't
get too excited, Obi-Wan, you brought a chaperone, remember?"
"It's good to see you, Siri, even if I'm not
supposed to miss you."
Barriss and Healer Trin
entered the room and were surprised by the number of occupants already there.
"This is becoming quite an event, I see." The healer smiled and
nodded at Obi-Wan and Siri. "Perhaps we should
sell tickets."
The healer motioned to Barriss to bring the hologram
machine cart to the side of the exam table. "Sadly, it is unusual to have
births here at the
"Master Tachi, this is going to feel a little
cold," Barriss warned as she upturned an opaque
bottle filled with a jelly substance and squirted it on Siri's
belly.
Siri gasped. "Where has that stuff been, Hoth?"
Barriss colored a little and cleared her throat.
"Sorry, Master." Following the healers instructions, she then took a
bar shaped device and pressed it against Siri's lower
abdomen using the jelly to smoothly move the device around.
"If you watch the holodisc over here, you will
be able to see the babies." The healer pointed to the cart as images
started to appear.
"Ok, Barris, stop it right...there. There is the
first one." Trin stated as the image came into
focus on the holodisc. The baby's head and body were
both oversized and it's limbs a bit stubby, but the
figure was clearly distinguishable. The healer pointed out the less obvious
parts of the baby. "Right here you can see an ear and here are the ribs.
The pulsations you see are the heartbeat, of course."
Obi-Wan held his breath. For the first time he realized it was more than
something that was going to happen. It was something that was happening and he
found himself feeling overwhelmingly emotional. He let out the breath he was
holding as he heard someone else in the room exclaim, "Wow!"
Siri smiled up at Obi-Wan. "It's something isn't
it?"
The others were crowding around the hologram in awe as Trin
took measurements. The healer then told Barriss to
move the bar as he placed his hand over the spot where the device had been. He
used the Force to sense the presence of the baby and a small grin came over his
face. "It's a girl and she is quite healthy."
A happy murmur swept through the room as everyone commented at once about the
news.
Healer Trin then moved his hand across Siri's abdomen until he paused in a different location. He
reached out through the Force and examined the second child.
"There is the second one," Trin announced
as he motioned to Barriss to place the hologram
device on the spot where his hand was. Another baby appeared on the holodisc and it looked very much like the first one.
"This one is also healthy, but this one is a boy."
Once again excitement surged through the room in response to the news.
The healer then motioned to Barriss to move the bar
device in a certain direction, but nothing appeared on the holodisc.
"The third one must be hiding," the healer said, as Barriss continued to press the bar against Siri in every direction. Then the healer stopped and looked
over at the padawan. "Barriss, let me try."
Trin first placed his hand on Siri's
belly and reached out through the Force. His face became impassive as he took
the device from Barriss and went directly to one
location. He pressed the bar on Siri's abdomen firmly
and the image of a baby appeared on the holodisc. Trin looked up to Siri and
Obi-Wan with concern. "There is the third one."
A terrible coldness grabbed Obi-Wan's heart.
"But I don't see any pulsations."
Healer Trin cleared his throat. "No, Master
Obi-Wan, the heart has stopped. I'm sorry."
Everyone in the room fell silent. Obi-Wan felt like he had just been slapped in
the face. Only seconds ago he had felt like he was soaring on happiness and now
he felt a great sadness in the pit of his stomach. He looked at Siri and knew that she was feeling the same. He squeezed
her hand softly and she returned the squeeze.
Bant put her hands on Anakin and Ferus's
shoulders to get their attention and with her silver eyes she motioned towards
the door of the room. The three of them stepped over to Obi-Wan and Siri and, silently, they each placed a hand on Siri's shoulder before leaving the room.
Barriss, too, bowed to Obi-Wan and Siri and left.
Fighting back tears, Siri asked, "So what
happens now?"
The healer turned to her with compassion in his eyes. "Basically, nothing
will happen. That is, you don't have to do anything. If this were a single
pregnancy, then we would have to surgically remove the contents of the
conception. In this case however, since there are two other babies, the tissue
of the deceased fetus will be reabsorbed and the other two children will
continue to develop. You just aren't having triplets anymore. You are having
twins."
The healer then took a towel and proceeded to wipe the jelly off of Siri's middle. "I am sorry for the death," he
continued. "I realize that you barely had time to get used to the idea of
having these babies, but you will grieve over this. It is still a loss."
"But what caused it?" Siri had to ask.
"Master Siri, if you think that this death is
your fault, I want to assure you it isn't. These little ones are so fragile in
their early months that it sometimes amazes me that the galaxy is as populated
as it is. It is not unusual for any pregnancy to end in a miscarriage; in fact,
the odds are in favor of such a loss. The odds of a miscarriage increase even
more when they involve multiple births. It may simply be that the baby was not
strong enough to continue on."
As the healer moved about the room picking up and moving things back to where
they belonged he continued to talk to Siri and
Obi-Wan. "I wanted to do a more thorough exam today, but I think we can
reschedule that for another time. You may stay here in this room for as long as
you like. I will see you again in a few weeks, Master Siri."
"Thank you, Master Trin," Obi-Wan answered
for the both of them.
Obi-Wan helped Siri off the table and took her into
his arms. "I'm sorry, Siri."
Siri wrapped her arms around him. "Obi-Wan, I
know that baby was alive this morning because I felt it through the Force.
Something happened between then and now."
Then Obi-Wan felt Siri shudder.
Obi-Wan pulled away from Siri and looked at her.
"What is it?"
A strange look filtered through Siri's eyes. "I
think I know when the death happened. I was in Palpatine's
office for that meeting this morning and at one point he walked near me. I had
a terrible chill come over me at that moment." Siri
looked Obi-Wan in the eye. "I can't explain it, Obi- Wan, but I don't
really care for Palpatine and I thought at the time
it was just because he was so close to me, but that must have been when the
baby's heart stopped beating, instead."
"You heard what the healer said, Siri, this is
not your fault." Obi-Wan again wrapped his arms around Siri
and held her close.
"I do understand that, but it still hurts." A tear began to roll down
Siri's cheek.
Obi-Wan kissed her forehead and brushed her mind with his through the Force.
"Yes, it does," he whispered.
Chapter 5: The Second Trimester
The loss of their unborn child did hurt Siri and
Obi-Wan more than they ever thought it could. Strange, when they considered
that the child was still so very tiny and they were never going to be able to
keep the child as their own, anyway. Stranger still that the
loss affected Siri since she really didn't want to go
through with the pregnancy in the first place.
Word spread quickly through the
Ferus and Anakin decided to do something for their
Masters in the wake of the miscarriage and they planted a flowering bush in the
They were also encouraged by their sense of cooperation.
"At least we know they can put aside their differences and work
together," observed Siri as she leaned down to
smell the flowers.
Obi-Wan grinned with a hint of pride. "I don't want to scare you, Siri, but Anakin has been saying that maybe one day, one of
these babies will be his Padawan."
Siri returned the smile and patted Obi-Wan's arm. "We'll make sure he gets the one most like
you, Obi-Wan. Ferus, I believe, has secretly staked a
claim on the other one."
Obi-Wan laughed mischievously. "Let's just hope their Padawans
are as hard on them as they have been on us."
Siri had gotten through the first trimester of her pregnancy without much
difficulty. For the most part, she wanted to sleep all the time, but despite
the growing changes in her body, the Council still sent her on missions with
her Padawan.
As time passed, Siri sensed her Padawan
was growing more protective of her, and at one point she had to talk to Ferus about it; afraid it would interfere with their
Master/Padawan bond. She had to impress upon him that
if his primary goal was to protect her then their focus could be lost and so
could they.
"I'm sorry, Master."
"I'm flattered, Ferus, but I know you understand
what I'm talking about. I'm still capable of doing my job. However, if you find
that you can let me sleep a little longer in any given situation, I'd really
appreciate that." She gave him a smile and a wink.
"I will be happy to do what I can, Master." Ferus
replied and Siri sensed he felt a little happier
being able to help with even a small request.
Finally, Siri moved beyond the first three months and
into the second three. She also moved beyond the loss of the one child and, in
general, began to feel better and more energetic.
Siri saw to it that she and Ferus
practiced saber techniques regularly. She knew she would have to learn to
compensate for her shifting center of gravity as the pregnancy progressed. She
also knew she would eventually have to abstain from sparring when she grew to a
size that it would be too uncomfortable for her to indulge in. By then, she was
sure she would be staying at the
It was hard for Siri not to think about Obi-Wan
often, after all, she was carrying his children. It frustrated her and thrilled
her at the same time. She never planned to fall in love; it was so
inconvenient. Love relationships just didn't fit in with the Jedi way of life,
even without the Code. That the object of her affections was Obi-Wan wasn't
altogether a surprise, if she was honest with herself. She considered Obi-Wan
to be her closest friend for years and, as far as men went, he was safe to be
around. There was no way Obi-Wan Kenobi would entertain any romantic notions;
he was too dedicated to being a Jedi. Then again, Siri
was also dedicated and that is probably why it was perfect that it happened to
the two of them.
The Council kept her busy with missions and to her surprise, and she was sure
to Obi-Wan's surprise too, the Council sent them on a
couple of missions together. Siri suspected that her
former Master, Adi, had not told the Council about
the deeper bond she and Obi-Wan had formed. Knowing her former Master, Siri guessed that Adi figured it
was information that was not important unless or until Siri
and Obi-Wan proved they couldn't behave like Jedi in spite of their feelings.
Sometimes it wasn't easy, but they both agreed they would rather have the opportunity
to work and be together then to be kept apart for years to come. Besides, the
two padawans were built in chaperones.
Occasionally, though, they were able to steal a quiet moment or two. It was
then they could talk about the change in their relationship.
"Do you wish the Code could be different, Obi-Wan?" Siri asked.
"I'm too practical, Siri, to sit around wishing,
you know that. And I'm too much of a Jedi to dwell on something I know I can't
have. Besides, you really wouldn't want to live with me," Obi-Wan
responded.
Siri snuggled into his side as they talked. "I
know, I know. You're too methodical, too set in your ways. You would, and do,
drive me crazy."
"I only get worse as I get older. I just know I am going to be an
eccentric old man." He gave her a little squeeze as he put his arm about
her.
Perhaps Obi-Wan was right, Siri thought. He was
extremely methodical and meticulous. During one mission years before, Anakin
had told Siri that it was almost painful how thorough
his Master could be.
"You're exaggerating, Anakin. I'm sure it isn't that bad," Siri had said.
To that Anakin issued her a challenge. To make minor changes in Obi-Wan's data pad and see how long it would take Obi-Wan to
notice the change. Anakin told her it would be noticed in five minutes.
"You're wrong! It will take him more than ten, at least," Siri claimed. She made the changes.
Obi-Wan discovered the alterations in two minutes, twenty-seven seconds.
However, Siri refused to believe that Obi-Wan was
that bad, so Anakin dared her to move things around in his quarters, perhaps
only inches and watch him arrange them back. Siri
once again took Anakin up on his suggestion and at first smugly thought Obi-Wan
hadn't noticed any change until she returned to her own quarters one evening to
find her music discs arranged alphabetically.
At least Obi-Wan could laugh at himself and it became a running joke between
them over the years. Siri would occasionally sneak in
and rearrange objects in his room, calling it more artistic and Obi-Wan would
respond by sneaking into her room, rearrange items and claim it was more
efficient. Once, knowing Obi-Wan would come, Siri
left him a note to straighten her wardrobe.
There were times, however, when Obi-Wan's attention
to detail could actually be endearing. When Siri's
body began to swell with the babies, she knew it was time to get clothes for
her expanding figure. Obi-Wan had thought ahead and one evening he showed up to
Siri's quarters with some new clothes for her.
All the clothes were lovely and Siri squealed with
delight over them, but there was one piece in particular that Siri especially took to. It was a soft brown leather outer
jacket with a scooped neckline and capped sleeves. The jacket hooked across her
bust, then fell in wide pleats just under the bust line and the pleats ended in
a slightly rounded scallop. At the end of each pleat in the scallop was
embossed in the leather a design of either a moon or a star and around the
neckline was a curved design meticulously pressed into the leather. The jacket
came with a number of different colored gauzy blouses that could be worn
underneath.
Clearly, Obi-Wan had had the jacket specially made for her and Siri was touched. Best of all, inside one pleat on the left
side was sewn a strap so that Siri could strap her lightsaber to the jacket and always carry it with her.
"That weapon is you life, I had to make sure you wouldn't be without
it." Obi-Wan explained as he showed her the garment.
"It's perfect, but I didn't get you anything," Siri
joked as she gave him a warm hug.
"Just don't tell me I shouldn't have. I should be able to do some little
something since you're doing all the other work."
Siri was still not convinced that Obi-Wan would be so
bad to live with, despite how often he reminded her of the idea. "You
know, Obi-Wan, there might be other benefits that might make putting up with
you worthwhile."
Obi-wan laughed and his eyes twinkled at the idea. "Siri,
I would probably be meticulous and methodical about that, too."
"Only when you wanted to drive me crazy."
"Which is often, because I just can't help myself around you."
Siri let out a frustrated breath and grinned.
"In truth, it is probably exactly what you could use in life to loosen you
up a little. I'm certain we could come up with a 'method' both to our
liking."
Obi-Wan let out a sigh and lowered his gaze as if in apology. "I'm not a
passionate man, Siri. I know you would quickly tire
of me."
"Well, as Jedi, I guess passion is somewhat conditioned out of us. You
know, 'there is no passion, there is serenity'. Why are you so sure I would get
tired of you? Perhaps it is you that would get tired of me. I hope you're only
trying to justify everything the way it is, rather than believing that I don't
love you enough to be with you as you are." Siri
let out an exasperated sigh as she continued, "Anyway, Obi-Wan, love isn't
about some all consuming passion. It's about respect, trust and contentment. I
think that would describe us very well."
"If that is true, Siri, then we will always have
that whether we can be together or not and it will still be there ten and
twenty years from now."
Obi-Wan was right. Sometimes Siri
hated it when Obi-Wan was right. It drove her crazy!
Siri understood that a large part of Obi-Wan's negativity was an effort to push aside the growing
longing they were developing for each other. There may have been some truth to
it, but if their love was true then they would be able to adjust to each
other's idiosyncrasies.
Obi-Wan claimed he wasn't a passionate man. Obi-Wan was
not a man who would sit around and whisper syrupy nothings into a woman's ear,
nor was he openly affectionate. Instead, Obi-Wan expressed his affection behind
a sense of humor. This didn't really bother Siri
because she was the same way.
When Obi-Wan could have a moment alone with Siri and there were no prying eyes he would ask her in a
quiet voice, "May I kiss you, Siri?"
At first Siri was annoyed by his lack of spontaneity,
but Obi-Wan reasoned that he couldn't just boldly kiss her if he could never
even think to promise her some kind of commitment even in the far future. He
couldn't just take, so he asked her to give.
What Obi-Wan lacked in spontaneity he made up for in technique, which only
improved with every kiss. He would close his eyes and place his cheek close to
hers and hold it there for a moment as if breathing her in. Then he lowered his
shields and brushed her mind through the Force inviting her to lower her
shields. Once Siri let her feelings free and embraced
him through the Force, he would then brush his lips across hers in such a soft
touch that it tickled slightly. Blanketing her in happy feelings he then
deepened the kiss and gently parted her lips with his. By the time the kiss
ended, Siri felt he had taken her breath away. When
the babies got to a size that Siri could feel their
movements from within, a kiss from Obi- Wan sent them into a flurry of activity
every time.
Perhaps, from a certain point of view, Obi-Wan was not
passionate, but from any point of view he was a man.
Chapter 6: Birth
"Have you thought of names for the babies, Master?" Anakin asked
excitedly.
"No, Anakin. I don't even know if the Council will let us name them. I'm
sure they will be given different last names as well. The children can't know
that Siri and I are their parents."
"It doesn't seem right, Master."
Obi-Wan let out a heavy sigh. "We've been over this many times, Anakin.
The Jedi have codes we must abide by for the good of everyone. I know that
because of your background, you may sometimes see them as harsh, but Master Siri and I grew up this way and we understand the
rules."
In truth, Obi-Wan was somewhat hurt by it and it surprised him. He was always
so careful about the Code and following the ways of the Jedi and the Force. He
believed strongly in the rules and though he had formed a bond with Siri and the children, he still felt the rules had merit
and he had no desire to change them. Even if he wanted to selfishly have his
family, he knew it would be wrong to keep his children. It was confirmed
already that both the babies were strong in the Force and the Jedi should most
certainly raise them; it was where the children belonged.
Obi-Wan reasoned that it wouldn't be so bad. He and Siri,
of course, would always know which children were theirs and they would be able
to peek in on them now and again. The children couldn't know Obi-Wan and Siri were their parents; they could not be allowed to form
the familial bonds and they couldn't be singled out as different from the other
children in the Order. Though many of the Jedi would know who the children
were, it would be something that would simply never be mentioned.
There were other Jedi in the
Obi-Wan decided that the best thing he and Siri could
do for their children would be to provide them with a good example.
Obi-Wan's feelings for Siri
continued to deepen. As he watched Siri's figure
expand with the children, he felt a bond with her that only got stronger. When
he put his hands on Siri's rounded abdomen to feel
the babies move for the first time, he felt in awe and a happiness that he
never knew existed. He would often touch his children through the Force and
feel the life of the little ones pulsating. The biggest shock he received was
the day one of the children touched him back through the Force.
"I didn't know they could do that!" Obi-Wan gasped as he had his hand
on Siri's belly feeling the movements of the
children.
"You'd be surprised what goes on with these two, Obi-Wan. During the last
fetal hologram she kicked him." Siri gave him a
sheepish grin. "Perhaps they're going to be just like us, won't the
Council be thrilled!"
"I don't think so, Siri! They're offspring, not
clones. There is bound to be improvements on the originals...Hopefully,"
Obi-Wan replied, though he couldn't hide the fact that he did think it was
humorous.
There were days it amazed Obi-Wan that he and Siri
actually found themselves in this situation; that the two of them would
actually have children together. It was something he never considered even
dreaming of since he was a Jedi. Even more interesting was that he had such
deep feelings for her. He knew he had always been attracted to Siri, even when they were initiates she had made a strong
impression on him. He always thought she was beautiful and often felt drawn to
her eyes whether they were just looking at him or whether they sparked fire at
him. It seemed the latter happened more often than the former. When they were padawans they would try each other's patience to the limit
and each quickly figured out which buttons to push to annoy the other. They
finally grew up and out of that phase, but their friendship still revolved
around a healthy dose of bickering and bantering with each other.
Spending time with Siri could be a challenge and
perhaps that was why he liked it. As a Jedi she was brilliant and very skilled,
but maybe what Obi- Wan loved most about Siri was her
sense of humor. It matched his and very few people could match his dry wit. Siri could do it without batting one of her pretty blue
eyes. Obi-Wan enjoyed sharing a good laugh with Siri
and always looked forward to it.
It appeared to Obi-Wan that he was the last one to actually know of his true
feelings for Siri. His close friends seemed to have
figured it out already. Bant claimed she knew years
ago and Anakin asked the first time he saw Siri and
Obi-Wan together if she was his girlfriend, after which Obi- Wan launched into
a series of explanations about the Code. Obi-Wan realized now that he never
really answered Anakin's question with a 'no', but rather 'she can't be'. Even Adi had said that Qui-Gon picked
up on their attraction when they were still Padawans.
Garen also claimed to have known.
"Is it true about you and Siri Tachi?" Garen asked when he
showed up to Obi-Wan's quarters one afternoon after
being gone from the
"Garen! Hello to you,
too! If you are referring to the fact that I got her into the condition she's
in, yes it's true. However, if you know that then you know
about the mission, I hope." Obi-Wan replied surprised to see Garen and feeling as though Garen's
question sounded a bit like an interrogation.
"What mission?" Garen asked, to which
Obi-Wan, to his embarrassment, had to explain.
Garen listened intently. "At least, that
explains why the both of you haven't been expelled from the Order. However,
that was a dangerous mission for you, my friend."
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"Come on, Obi-Wan. The way you feel about Siri Tachi. There is no way you came out of that mission without
some sort of 'attachment' to her."
"My feelings for Siri are deep, I admit. As for
attachment, any formal attachment, it is forbidden by the Code and Siri and I are determined to remain Jedi." Obi-Wan was
beginning to feel insulted by Garen's attitude.
"Well, that is a relief to hear, old friend. I was afraid that you might
do something rash once you realized how you really felt about her."
"I don't think I like what you're insinuating, Garen,
but I can assure you that both Siri and I are well
beyond the age to fall into some idealistic trap about love. We do have a bond
and having children together deepens the bond, but we both understand that the
galaxy is a hard place in which to live and neither of us has any desire to
leave here." Obi-Wan continued as his voice became harder. "Indeed,
we are Jedi, we love being Jedi and we are good at it, too."
"Obi-Wan, there is no need to get so upset. I am just worried about you.
That's all."
Obi-Wan eyed his old friend. "You've known me for a long time, Garen. I don't understand why you are concerned that I
might leave the Jedi."
"I have known you for a long time, Obi-Wan, and I know being a Jedi is
your life. Something like this would make any man think twice, but I know you
would never be happy if you left here. As for Tachi,
I don't know her as well and I suppose I'm concerned she would talk you into
making a big mistake."
"Well, Garen, you obviously don't know Siri very well. She has not even brought up the topic, nor
do I expect her to. She has no desire to leave the Jedi, either, and she would
never ask me to, even if she did."
"I'm sorry, Obi-Wan. Tachi has a bit of a
rebellious streak; everyone knows that. I know you've been attracted to her for
years. I just don't want to see you compromise your life as a Jedi because of
her." Garen shifted a bit nervously as the words
left his mouth.
Obi-Wan crossed his arms over his chest and glared at Garen
for a moment, not sure how to interpret what he just heard. "I hope you
are saying these things out of genuine concern, Garen.
You're talking about the mother of my children and I would appreciate it if you
would call her by her first name, Siri. Furthermore, Siri, despite her 'rebellious streak', is one of the most
dedicated Knights in the Order. Like myself, she knows what it means to be cut
off from the Jedi family and she doesn't want to be cut off again. We both
intend to stay in the Order and abide by its Code."
Garen gave Obi-Wan a look that indicated that he had
been duly chastised. "Perhaps it's time I get to know Siri
better," he said humbly.
"That would be an excellent idea, Garen!"
Obi-Wan was surprised he found himself so upset by Garen's
attitude. Love was indeed a complicated emotion and it obviously led to other
problems. Obi-Wan couldn't change how he felt about Siri
and, as a Jedi, he couldn't do anything about it
either. He would just have to learn to live with it and living with it could be
very difficult at times.
As Siri neared the end of her pregnancy, Obi-Wan
found himself staying at the
"I'm sure she won't be that bad, Master," Obi-Wan replied, to which Adi just gave him an odd look.
Obi-Wan felt Siri had actually taken to the pregnancy
quite well. She very rarely complained and didn't seem any more irritated by
things than usual. Of course, with Siri that was hard
to really tell. The one side effect of the pregnancy that Siri
did seem to like was that, as she took on a more
matronly appearance, other men ogled her less and took her more seriously. Siri always had to fight for credibility from the time she
was a padawan. As a child she was always looked upon
as a 'little girl' and as a woman she was considered by many to be too
beautiful to be credible, especially by men, and she hated it. Obi-Wan didn't
like to admit it, but he found himself happy that other men were looking at her
less, as well.
"Breathe,
Siri." Obi-Wan was
trying to coach her as she entered her sixth hour of hard labor.
"Would you like to get up here on this med couch and take over Obi-Wan? I
would sure love to trade places with you at this point!" Siri's voice was clearly dripping with irritation.
"No, Siri, you're doing such a great job of it,
I don't think we should change the plans at this point in the mission,"
Obi-Wan countered.
"I have a better idea, Obi-Wan. I'm going home for today. Maybe we could
pick up from here tomorrow." With that Siri
attempted to pick herself up from the med couch, but Obi-Wan quickly stopped
her.
"I know this isn't easy, Siri, but you can't
leave now."
Obi-Wan had been warned that she would get to this point in the laboring
process. Both he and Siri had gone through some
coaching weeks before to be prepared for labor and delivery.
A new healer had come to help them through the end of her pregnancy. Chancellor
Palpatine had insisted on providing them with the
best human gynecological healer on Coruscant, Healer Quan. Palpatine knew of the
mission to Nohar and when he found out that the
children conceived were Obi- Wan Kenobi's, the hero of Naboo,
he wouldn't take 'no' for an answer. He argued that it was unusual for children
to be born at the
"How is everything going in here?" Quan
asked as he came in to check out Siri's progress.
Siri only gave him a nasty glance.
"It seems we've reached the stage where irrationality is starting to take
over," Obi-Wan said as he took Siri's hand. At
that moment she was seized by a contraction and she squeezed Obi-Wan's hand so hard that even he almost yelled out in pain.
When the contraction stopped, Siri
spoke up, "No! I've reached the stage where, even as a Jedi, I
can't take the pain any more and I'm ready for any medication you have!"
"We'll see what we can do for you, Master Tachi,"
said the healer as he once again left the room.
"You have to be more assertive, Obi-Wan. All these guys do is walk in and
out and ask how you're doing. What do they do in the other room for six hours,
anyway? They're probably playing Sabaac while I am in
here dying!"
"You are being overly dramatic, Siri."
At that comment Siri shot him an intense look.
Obi-Wan wondered if she could possibly cross over to the dark side in the
middle of labor and delivery. "Kenobi, you're lucky you can never come
near me again. It will save you the pain of rejection!"
Obi-Wan cleared his throat. "Right."
The hours dragged on, but finally the time came for the babies to be born.
Obi-Wan was exhausted and he knew Siri
had to be even worse, but she finally pushed the first baby out.
"And we have a beautiful baby girl!" Healer Quan
announced as he cut the cord and handed the child to Healer Trin,
who was in to assist.
Siri only let out a heavy sigh and looked at Obi-Wan
with tears in her eyes. Obi-Wan couldn't tell if she was happy or so tired she
was crying and she still had another baby to give birth to.
"I know it isn't much, Siri, but I'm still here
with you," he said sympathetically as he combed back her hair with his
fingers.
"I know, Obi-Wan. I love you," she said in a whisper. Then, without
warning, Siri's eyes rolled to the back of her head
and she lost consciousness.
Suddenly, a machine that Siri was being monitored by
started to buzz and the healers in the room began to move about in a panic.
"You're going to have to leave, Master Kenobi," Quan
announced.
"What's happening? I can't leave her. I won't leave her!" Obi-Wan
protested.
"Get him out of here!" Quan yelled to Trin.
"Master Obi-Wan, we have to operate and we have to move fast. You must
leave for Master Siri's sake." Trin tried to be as gentle as he could with Obi-Wan, who was in a state of shock.
Obi-Wan felt himself being escorted to the door and
then he found himself outside the room. His mind was in chaos and he didn't
know what to think or feel at that moment. His exhaustion made it difficult for
him to even focus. When he tried to sense what was going on in the operating
room through the Force, he only met with confusion.
Obi-Wan was vaguely aware of an infant's mournful cry
coming from another room. A heavy distraught sigh escaped his lungs. "I
love you, too, Siri," he uttered.
Chapter
7: Mystery
Siri slowly woke up and found herself in the med
clinic with its familiar white walls. She felt groggy and dazed.
"Obi-Wan?" she whispered as she saw him slumped in a chair beside her
med couch.
Obi-Wan jumped to attention at the sound of her voice. "Siri, you're awake! Thank the Force you're awake!" He
leaned over her and put his hand on the top of her head stroking her hair.
"What happened, Obi-Wan? The last thing I remember was that the girl was
finally born." Siri noticed that Obi-Wan looked
haunted. "What is it, Obi- Wan? What happened?"
"Maybe now is not the time to talk about it. You need to recover,"
Obi-Wan replied in an effort to put off the task of filling her in on what
transpired.
Siri suddenly felt a strong feeling of grief through
the Force and she felt it coming from Obi-Wan. "You have to tell me now,
Obi-Wan, I know something terrible has happened. I can
feel it."
Obi-Wan sucked in a breath of air and nodded his head. "Siri, our son didn't make it. Something went horribly wrong
and you passed out. Quan said the boy was strangled
by his umbilical cord. He was stillborn." Obi- Wan paused and Siri noticed his eyes glisten as he tried to tell her what
happened. "You started bleeding and the healers couldn't stop it, so they
had to do surgery."
"Surgery?" Siri
questioned, but at this point she was barely hearing what Obi-Wan was trying to
tell her. She was still trying to absorb the story about their son.
"In order to stop the bleeding they had to remove your uterus."
Obi-Wan hung his head. "I'm so sorry, Siri."
Siri just stared at him in a trance and the room
filled with silence. Then Siri reached for Obi-Wan
with her hand and he grabbed it with both of his. He pressed his lips to her
fingers.
"Obi-Wan. I had a strange dream, but I don't
think it was a dream, now."
"What do you mean, Siri?"
"I saw Qui-Gon and he told me he had the baby.
He told me that he and Tahl and many other Jedi were
taking care of the babies and that he would take care of our son. I thought he
meant the first baby, but he meant this one." Siri
gave Obi-Wan a sad smile as a puzzled look came over his face. "Qui-Gon had a message for you, too. He said to tell you he was
proud of you for paying so much attention to the Living Force these last nine
months. He said the children were a gift even if you couldn't keep them, and
that he was glad to see you taking advantage of the gift."
Obi-Wan laid his head on Siri's shoulder and Siri put her arms around him as they both shed quiet tears.
Siri sat propped up on
pillows in her med couch and waited. "Come on, Obi- Wan, when do I get to
see her?"
Obi-Wan adjusted Siri's pillows behind her.
"Master Adi is going to bring her in very soon. Patience, Siri. You're worse than
my Padawan." Obi- Wan smiled at her. "She
is beautiful, too, just like her mother."
"I went through a whole lot of work to have that child,
you shouldn't make me wait so long to see her!"
The door of Siri's room opened and Adi Gallia walked in carrying a small bundle in her arms.
"Padawan, I've brought you something. It seems
she is the talk of the
Siri put her arms up anxiously to take the child from
her former Master, but to her frustration, Adi didn't
hand the child over to her. "Please, Master, can I have her now?"
Adi gave Siri a big grin.
It was like old times when Siri had to wait for her
Master to do something or give her something. Siri
could still be just as anxious. Adi sighed behind the
smile. "Ah, Padawan, no matter how hard I tried
with you, some things never changed."
Adi leaned down and put the baby into Siri's waiting arms. Obi-Wan sat on the bed next to Siri to look at the little girl, too. Siri
quickly glanced at Obi-Wan and a happy smile spread across her face. "Oh,
she is so beautiful!"
Siri held the bundle in the crook of one arm and put
her free hand on the baby's tiny head. The child's eyes were closed, but she
moved softly under her mother's touch. She had a lot of soft hair and it was
dark brown. "She has your mouth, Obi-Wan, and your chin." Siri gave Obi-Wan a big grin. "Well, what I remember
of your chin, anyway."
Obi-Wan laughed and returned her lighthearted taunt. "Wait until she opens
her eyes. They are just like yours, Siri."
Obi-Wan responded proudly as he put his index finger under the child's hand.
"One day they will spark fire just like yours, too."
"Force help us!" Adi
sighed.
Siri could only laugh. "Oh, Master, wouldn't it
be wonderful to have another one of me running around here?" Siri teased.
"As long as I don't have to be her Master, it will be just fine." Adi teased back as she took a seat in the chair next to the
med couch. "Siri, Obi-Wan. It is probably time
to have another talk."
"Master, you don't need to worry about us. We know the Code, we intend to
keep it." Siri quickly said, anticipating what
her former Master was going to talk about.
"I know you do know the Code and I don't worry about the two of you
following it. In fact, what I am going to propose is because I have watched you
handle yourselves so well in the last nine months.
Siri looked at Adi with a
puzzled expression. Adi smiled. "Siri, would you like to feed the baby yourself?"
"Could I, Master? Aren't you worried about bonding?" Siri sputtered in surprise.
"Most children don't come to the
Siri glanced again at Obi-Wan and saw a pleased
expression on his face. "I think I could handle it, Master. I want to do
it."
The baby stretched and yawned in Siri's arms and her
eyes flickered open. She stared at Siri with a blank
expression. "Hello little one! I'm your...I'm
Master Siri and I have feeding rights."
The baby began to fuss and Adi stood up to go.
"I think she is hungry, Master Siri. You had
better feed her."
Before she exited the room Adi approached Siri ,
put her arm around her and gave her a gentle squeeze. It was an unusual display
of affection for Adi Gallia.
Siri sensed some relief coming from her former
Master. "Thank you, Adi," Siri said in acknowledgement as she watched Adi leave.
Siri fiddled with the front of the sleep gown she
wore to get ready to feed the baby as Obi-wan settled in next to her and put
his arm around her. "I counted her fingers and toes," he announced.
Siri laughed. "You would!" she said. After
a brief pause she asked, "So what did you find?"
Obi-Wan grinned. "They were all there. Five fingers on
each hand and five toes on each foot."
Siri gave Obi-Wan a sideways glance of amusement as
she shifted the baby's position in her arms. "Maybe I had better check her
for fur. Looking at you and all the hair you have on your face and head, I'm
beginning to wonder if there may be Wookiee blood in
your ancestry."
Obi-Wan laughed at Siri's taunt as he nuzzled the
side of her neck with his bearded chin. Siri squirmed
under the tickle and giggled.
Obi-Wan watched as Siri helped the baby latch on to
her breast and the little one began to suckle vigorously. He pressed the side
of his face against Siri's head and let out a big
sigh. "I can't believe this, but I'm finding myself envious of my own
child."
"What are you talking about, Obi-Wan?"
"I was just thinking of all the time she will get to spend on to your
breast and I can't even get a good look."
"Ooooh, poor baby!" Siri cooed as
she put a hand up to touch Obi-Wan's cheek.
Obi-Wan chuckled and craned his head forward to see the view. "Maybe, I
should get her feeding schedule and make sure I'm here to see that she gets
what she needs," he said seriously, but Siri
could feel a grin spread across his features.
"Perhaps, you should." Siri smiled in
return and nodded. "I'm sure it's important that you look out for her
interests."
As the baby continued to nurse, Siri settled back
comfortably in Obi-Wan's warm embrace. It was good to
hear Obi-Wan joke and it was good to be able to laugh.
Siri was kept in the med
clinic for days because Healer Trin insisted on
watching her and he wasn't going to let her check out until he was sure she
would be fine. Siri didn't find herself bored,
however, because she had an endless stream of visitors. Obi-Wan was in and out and the baby was brought to her with a
regular schedule for feeding. Master Adi dropped by
often and even the busy Council members Masters Mace and Yoda came to see her.
Ferus and Anakin, too, stopped in often, sometimes
timing it so that one of them brought her the baby. During one visit the two padawans insisted on sneaking her out of the med clinic,
with the help of Obi-Wan, and taking her to the
Siri and Obi-Wan were both delighted and touched. The
padawans had found a bench to place across from the
bushes so that their Masters could sit and enjoy the flowers.
After several days of putting up with the sterile atmosphere of the med clinic,
Siri realized that there was one visitor that hadn't
come by to see her since her surgery. She decided to ask Healer Trin about it one morning, when he was fussing over her.
"Trin, why haven't I seen Healer Quan? It's been nearly a week now and I haven't seen him at
all. Isn't that odd?"
Trin shifted nervously at her inquiry.
"What is it Trin? Is there something you aren't
telling me?"
Trin cleared his throat and avoided her gaze.
"Master Siri, there is something, but the
Council has asked me not to say anything until there is more proof."
Siri suddenly had a feeling of dread as the healer spoke
these words. She was about to start her own interrogation of the healer when
Obi-Wan came into the room. "Obi-Wan, I'm glad you're here. Do you know
anything about Healer Quan?"
"No, Siri, what's going on?"
Siri related the conversation she was having with Trin to Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan turned to Trin
with a look of concern on his face.
"You both have a right to know," the Healer said. "I have done
my investigation and I don't need any more proof. I suspected when Quan was doing the surgery that something was not right. My
investigation uncovered that Quan caused the
hemorrhage that Master Siri experienced and that it
could have been stopped without the radical surgery."
Obi-Wan and Siri both stared at Trin
in shock. He continued, "That isn't the worst of it, Masters. Quan killed the baby. The cord was not wrapped around the
baby's neck as he claimed. He somehow managed to smother the baby
himself."
Obi-Wan sunk down on the bed next to Siri and Siri could feel a fresh sense of grief welling up in both
of them. "But why, Trin?
Why would he do that? He has a reputation of being the best healer on Coruscant."
"I know, Master Obi-Wan. That is the question that the Council is
investigating, but Quan has disappeared and no one
has been able to find him. Even his wife claims to not have seen him since last
week."
As Obi-Wan and Siri were trying to absorb this
information, Adi came into the room, followed by Mace
and Yoda.
"Told them, you did, Master Trin?" Yoda
asked.
"I thought it was time for them to know, Masters."
Adi turned to Obi-Wan. "We may be able to solve
this mystery now. Obi-Wan there is someone here to see
you, but she insists on only seeing you."
Obi-Wan nodded in assent, but he had a puzzled look on his face. With that a
young woman the same age as Siri and Obi-Wan was
escorted into the room. Her eyes were swollen from crying and Siri sensed she was full of fear. In her arms squirmed a
toddler girl with fine white hair.
"Master Obi-Wan Kenobi?" The woman's voice shook as she looked
towards Obi- Wan. "I am Healer Quan's wife and
this is our daughter."
Obi-Wan stood and nodded for her to continue. "I know about what my
husband did to your wife and your son. He didn't want to, but he was
threatened." The woman began to stumble over the words she was saying and
the information came out in pieces. The woman pulled out a crumpled piece of
paper from her pocket "I found a note, but he didn't write much more than
that he was sorry. He wrote that if he didn't do it, our daughter and I would
be killed."
Obi-Wan took the note from the woman, but it didn't say anything more than she
had already revealed. "Where is you husband
now?"
"Dead, sir. He consumed a huge dose of poison,
but I think it was forced upon him. He begged me to come here with the baby and
beg the Jedi for help. He made me promise."
"Did he say anything at all that would give you a clue as to who might
have forced this crime upon him?" Mace asked her.
The woman turned to Mace and in a voice that quivered with fear she said,
"He said only that the person that met with him wasn't just evil, he was
demonic. I don't understand what that means, but I could see in my husband's
eyes that he experienced something truly dark. He was a good man. He would
never have compromised his practice or his life if he weren't pushed into
something like this. He would have done it for us. I'm so sorry." The
woman broke down in tears.
Siri looked to Obi-Wan; his face had grown ashen.
"That description fits only one being in this galaxy," Obi-Wan
muttered. "The Sith."
Further investigation
didn't initially reveal any more answers than the Healer's wife had given them.
The Jedi saw to it that Quan's wife was given a new
identity and a new home away form Coruscant. The
Council decided not to involve Chancellor Palpatine
in the relocation of the woman for fear it was someone in his office that may
have leaked the information about Obi-Wan and Siri
and their offspring. That Obi-Wan was the target of the crime seemed clear,
after all, he had defeated the Sith
at the Battle of Naboo.
Siri was finally released from the med clinic and she
was given odd assignments that kept her at the
Siri pushed the ugliness of it all out of her
thoughts. It was the Jedi way not to dwell on things that could not be changed.
She decided that she would be grateful that they had one child and she relished
every minute she got to spend with the baby, too. She always had to go to the
nursery for her to feed her, but Siri didn't care.
Often she would take the baby somewhere else in the
On the morning the little girl turned six weeks old, Siri
awoke with a terrible feeling of dread. She hurriedly dressed and raced from
her quarters to check on her daughter. When she arrived in the nursery she felt
a strong void in the Force and fear gripped her.
"What's wrong?" Siri asked before anyone in
the room even realized she had arrived.
Healer Trin was there and he wasn't usually in the
nursery. "Master Siri, you need to sit
down."
"Just tell me what is wrong, Master Trin."
The healer looked at Siri with a deep sadness in his
eyes. "I'm sorry, but the baby was found this morning, lifeless. It
appears she just stopped breathing."
Chapter 8: There is No Death
As soon as Obi-Wan arrived at the
When he entered the gardens he found several other Jedi there waiting, watching
for something, when he realized they were looking at Siri.
She was kneeling, hunched over in front of the flowering bushes that Anakin and
Ferus had planted. She was holding a bundle in her
arms, close to her chest. Obi-Wan reached out through the Force to sense the bundle
and got nothing from it but a void. He felt the air leave his lungs as he held
back his emotions.
"Master Obi-Wan, I'm glad you're here." Ferus
walked over to Obi-Wan. "My Master has been like this since she arrived at
the nursery this morning to find the baby dead. She grabbed the baby from the
healer there and headed straight to here. I...I haven't been able to get her
attention, sir. No one has and no one has tried yet to move her."
Obi-wan also noticed Adi, Healer Trin
and Yoda in the room. Concern was etched on all their faces.
"Waiting for you, we have been. Help her, you must, Obi-Wan," Yoda
said as he touched Obi-Wan's hand with one of his
clawed ones.
Obi-Wan nodded to Yoda in acknowledgement, but felt momentarily overwhelmed. He
couldn't think what he was really supposed to do; he simply started to do it.
He walked carefully over to Siri and crouched down
beside her. When she didn't move he gently put one arm around her shoulders and
whispered her name. She still didn't move, but he didn't feel any resistance
from her either. He gently helped her to a standing position and she followed
his lead.
Obi-Wan looked up to see Ferus close by and he
motioned for Ferus to come near. "Siri, Ferus will take the baby
now," he said in a low tone.
Ferus stepped forward and held out his hands to take
the body from his Master. "I will take care of her, Master."
Siri raised her eyes to her Padawan
and extended her arms to him. As she held the child away from her chest a tiny
arm fell away from the little body. Ferus quickly
took the child from Siri's arms and wrapped the
blanket carefully around the little one.
Obi-Wan nodded. "Thank you, Ferus. I will take
Master Siri with me."
Obi-Wan wasn't sure where he would take Siri, but he knew he had to be alone with her. He helped
her from the garden room and guided her where his own instincts took him.
Eventually he found himself with her in his own quarters.
Once inside the room he turned her by the shoulders and lifted her chin with
his fingers. He could see that her expressionless face was streaked with tears
and her eyes were red from crying.
"Oh, Siri," he muttered as he put his
forehead against hers. "You can't bottle it up. You have to release the
grief." A great suggestion since he couldn't seem to let out his own grief
at the moment.
Obi-Wan guided Siri to his sleep couch and sat her
there while he stepped into the refresher to get a wet washcloth. When he
returned to her, he found her sitting on the floor with her face in her hands.
He sat down in front of her, lifted her face and began to gently wipe it clean
with the dampened cloth.
She stared at him blankly, but said nothing. He could feel his own heart start
to break apart as he swallowed a sob of his own. "We are both going to
have to release the grief, Siri. Lower your shields
and we can do it together," he begged her.
He pushed softly against her mind through the Force, but she did not lower her
shields.
Obi-Wan took her face in his hands and looked her directly in the eyes. He
again tried to push against her shields through the Force and again he was met
with resistance. Gently he drew her face to him and he put his lips on hers. He
kissed her softly at first and then the kiss deepened. He felt her return the
kiss and he tried to push against her shields again. This time she let them
down and a wave of sorrow hit Obi-Wan with great intensity.
He sucked in a huge breath of air. "That's it, Siri.
Open up," he said as he choked back his own tears.
Siri took Obi-Wan's face in
her hands and kissed him. He could feel a sense of desperation behind the kiss,
but he didn't discourage her. Instead, when their lips parted he found himself
trailing kisses across her cheek and down her neck. He could taste the salt
that her tears had left behind. He placed his lips on her chest over her heart
and he could feel it thumping hard. He closed his eyes and took her in with all
his senses. When the sweet smell of the milk from her breasts drifted to his
nose, he could no longer hold back his own tears and he buried his face in her
chest and cried. He welcomed the comfort of Siri's
arms around him as she rocked him gently.
When both of them had spent their tears, they felt drained, but they still had
not cast their grief into the Force. Obi-Wan felt a heaviness
in his being that slowed his every movement as he again took care to wash off Siri's face. A trembling sigh escaped Siri's
lips as she in turn wiped his face clean. Obi-Wan extended his arm and touched Siri's face with his fingertips, tracing every curve. Despite
the sadness etched in every line, he thought she was more beautiful than he had
ever seen her before.
Siri silently mirrored his movements keeping her
feelings open to him. He could sense the depth of her sadness, but he also
sensed the feeling of warmth she had for him. Through the Force he returned her
affection. He placed the palm of his hand along her cheek and kissed her again.
She slid her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss as he tenderly scooped
her up in his strong arms, placed her on his sleep couch and lay down next to
her.
Obi-Wan leaned his forehead against hers and closed his eyes. He let out a deep
sigh as Siri's arms wrapped around him and she drew
him closer to her. He nuzzled his face against her cheek and caressed her body
gently. So much had changed. He felt the roundness of her hips and the fullness
of her thighs. He touched the scar from her surgery and firmness of her
breasts. Siri had given so much of herself over the
past year, only to lose so much along the way.
Obi-Wan's guilt weighed down on him; he felt like all
this was his fault and he knew he had to let go of that, too.
Together Obi-Wan and Siri combined their feelings of
grief as they gathered the Force around them, inviting It
to join them in their sorrow. They let the grief wash over them and they bathed
in it, feeling every nuance of it. They let it steep through them until every
muscle ached and every nerve was raw with pain. They accepted the pain fully
and embraced it. Finally, the two Jedi reached for each other through the Force
with a different emotion, the love they each nurtured deep within. They
combined the feelings of love they had and let that sense of love grow. As
their feelings of love ballooned it pushed out the pain of the grief and death and
bit-by-bit it was all released into the Force.
The couple collapsed in each other's arms in exhaustion. They were completely
numb and void of all emotion. It was then that a quiet peace settled upon them
and they drifted off together into a dreamless, sound sleep.
The following night, memorial
services were set for the tiniest member of the Jedi family. Obi-Wan and Siri had slept in his room for more than a standard day
when they were awakened by a chime at the door. Obi-Wan stirred, threw on some
clothes and answered it.
Anakin stood in his doorway. "Master, can you be ready for the services in
three hours?"
Obi-Wan knew he must have looked terrible by the way Anakin looked at him. He
diverted his eyes. "Yes, Anakin. We will be
there. Thank you."
"Master, is there anything I can do for you?"
Obi-Wan was about to give the standard 'No, I'm fine,' when he decided he
should let Anakin help, if only a little. "I need for you to stand with me
at the services, Anakin. And let Ferus know he should
stand with Master Siri." Obi-Wan reached out and
placed his hand on Anakin's shoulder. Anakin returned the gesture.
"Yes, Master. I would be honored to stand with you. Thank you."
Obi-Wan returned to his room to find Siri sitting up
on the sleep couch looking for her scattered clothing. He sat down next to her
and took her hands in his. "Will you be all right for the services?"
She gave him a sad smile and nodded. "I'm much better. I think I can make
it through them."
The fact that she actually spoke was a good sign.
"Obi-Wan. I need for you to make me a
promise." Siri looked directly into his blue
gray eyes.
"If I can," he replied warily.
"I think you can make this one without it being counter to your life as a
Jedi." Siri took a deep breath and continued, "I
want you to promise me that no matter what the Sith take from you, you will not let them take your
soul. They can't take that unless you give it to them." Siri's eyes glowed with intensity.
"All right," Obi-Wan slowly answered as he felt the seriousness of
her request. "I promise."
"Good. I intend to keep you to that promise. Even if I'm gone before you,
I will haunt you to make sure you keep it." She gave him a little grin.
"And you know me, Obi-Wan. I will make good on my word."
Obi-Wan kissed her hands and took her into a warm embrace.
The large
room for funeral services slowly filled with Jedi. One by one they entered and
as they passed the marble table in the center of the room displaying the body
of the baby, each Jedi placed a flower on the table next to the child. The
flowers they laid there were a soft white or warm yellow in color.
Obi-Wan and Siri stood together in front of their
child in their traditional Jedi clothes and cloaks. Their padawans
each took his place by his Master's side. Obi-Wan discretely reached for Siri's hand as they watched the procession of Jedi fill the
room. So many of their fellow Jedi had come and the
flowers began to fill up the table.
Eventually, all the Jedi had arrived and had taken a place waiting for the rituals
to begin. A heavy feeling of sorrow filled the room and the dimmed lights
reflected the mood. Obi-Wan felt himself once again releasing his emotions into
the Force as he waited, for what seemed like an eternity, for the services to
begin. He had always been taught that there was no death, but all he could
focus on was the loss he had gone through and the pain he knew Siri felt, too.
He took a deep breath and realized that something odd was happening. The lights
in the room began to get darker and darker until he could no longer see in
front of him. This was not part of the traditional ritual and he could sense
the others in the room were confused, as well. He still held Siri's hand and he felt a slight squeeze. He acknowledged
the gesture and reached out into the Force with his senses. The darkness
deepened and a sense of heaviness began to weigh on Obi-Wan's
body, but he heard no sound from anyone else in the room.
Then, just when he thought the darkness would swallow him whole a tiny light
began to emerge from directly ahead of him, over his daughter's body. It was a
little pinpoint, much like a star in the night sky and it began to dance and
circle around the child. Soon a second spot of light just like it joined in the
dance and they circled around each other creating a soft glow only where they
touched the darkness. Finally, a third light arrived to add to the
illumination.
Obi-Wan was mesmerized and puzzled by the sight. He
called upon the Force for guidance in understanding the vision before him. He
thought he heard tiny voices calling him as he tried to touch the light through
he Force.
Obi-Wan swore he heard the voices saying, "Papa", "Mama",
and he felt Siri breathe in a deep breath beside him.
A light breeze drifted through the room. As the lights danced more vigorously
they cut a wider path before them and then, without warning they swooped
towards Obi-Wan and Siri. In an instant, Obi-Wan felt
a pull from his being, a separation from his body, but he still had a strong
sense of his surroundings. He knew Siri was still
beside him and he realized the dancing lights were his children.
Obi-Wan no longer felt bound by his physical trappings and he felt as though he
could expand himself across universes. He could reach out endlessly and nothing
was painful or dark. It was all joy and light and peace. He realized he could
touch and be with all those he loved, especially the ones that were already one
with the Force.
He soared with Siri and his children by his side and
together they soaked in the light until it became so bright that he and Siri could no longer remain within its midst.
Obi-Wan felt his body jerk abruptly and he heard Anakin's voice calling for
him. "Master Obi-Wan?" When he opened his eyes he became aware that
he had collapsed and Anakin had caught him in his fall. "Are you all
right, Master?"
His own voice sounded foreign to him at first as he answered, "Yes,
Anakin, I'm fine." As he pulled himself to his feet he looked over at Siri, who had also collapsed. He knew then it wasn't a
dream. As soon as his eyes met with Siri's they both
silently acknowledged that they had just shared the same experience.
The light in the room had returned to normal but the atmosphere was full of
wonderment. The Jedi murmured among themselves about the events they had just
witnessed. As Obi-Wan straightened his clothes he heard Siri
speak his name. "Obi-Wan, look."
Obi-Wan turned in the direction that Siri was
pointing and saw that on the stone table lay only the flowers. The leaves and
stems were gone, just the petals remained of soft white, warm yellow and added
to them were petals of bold red.
The infant's body had completely disappeared and the tiny white garment that
adorned it lay crumpled in the middle of the table.
Epilogue: Another Jedi Legend
Obi-Wan and Siri stood before the Jedi Council. The
couple had requested a hearing to consider being granted the allowance to make
a formal commitment to each other. They had made their arguments to the council
and now awaited their decision.
"No," Mace Windu stated flatly. He used the
same inflection every time someone asked for an exception to the Code.
"The Code forbids it and we will not make this exception."
Both Obi-Wan and Siri felt their hearts sink, but
they had prepared themselves for this decision.
"Siri, Obi-Wan," Adi
Gallia spoke up. "If it were up to us as your friends we would grant you
this request happily. The events of the last year have made it clear to us that
you do indeed share a special bond. Furthermore, you have been exemplary in
putting the Force first in your lives and your relationship second. You have
made valid arguments as to why we should grant you this request, but the bottom
line is that we cannot make this exception and open the door for other Knights
to come to us with the same request."
"We do not have the time or the resources to even hear such requests, let
alone consider granting them," Ki-Adi-Mundi
added. "With the rise of the Sith
and the growing darkness we must focus all our energies on the growing number
of missions we are being given. Now is not the time to start questioning any
aspect of the Code and we certainly don't need any internal unrest or
dispute."
"Remain unified, we must, to conquer a common enemy," Yoda concluded.
"Yes, Masters. We understand," Obi-Wan answered and they did. Once
again they were asked to prove their loyalty to the Jedi and once again they
would do so.
"We thank you for hearing our request," Siri
said and she bowed.
"We have more to tell you, but we have to say it may not completely answer
all your questions in regards to what has happened over the past year,"
Mace spoke up and Obi-Wan and Siri gave him their
attention.
"We cannot prove that the Sith
were truly behind anything that happened here. The Knights that were supposed
to go to Nohar were eventually found and are now one
with the Force. As you know, their ship crashed on a remote moon. Examination
of the wreckage indicated no foul play. The examination of your daughter
indicated death from natural causes and again there was no foul play. The only
indication we have that someone was trying to hurt you was what happened during
labor and delivery of your son. Clearly, there was foul play and perhaps the Sith were behind it, but again we
have no solid proof of that. Further investigation into Healer Quan's life finally revealed he had huge gambling debts and
therefore he could have been under the influence of any number of people that
might seek vengeance on either of you or the Jedi."
Obi-wan and Siri listened intently, but were not
convinced. "Beyond the proof, what do your instincts tell you,
Masters?" Obi-Wan asked.
"A message from the Sith,
it most likely was," Yoda said.
"But we believe you have also received a message from the Force as well
and we would like for you to tell us about it," Adi
said.
Obi-Wan and Siri looked at each other. "You are
speaking of the night of the services?" Siri
questioned.
Adi went on to explain what the rest of the Jedi had
witnessed. They also experienced the darkness close in upon them and then they
saw the three little lights dancing over the baby's body. From there the lights
entered both Obi-Wan and Siri and two more lights
joined them as the two Knights collapsed. Gradually, the light became brighter
and brighter until the room was so bright that many Jedi had to cover their
eyes. Finally the light broke up and fell in sparkling pieces around the room
until the illumination returned to normal.
"Was anything expressed to you?" Ki-Adi-Mundi
asked.
"Yes," Siri said, as she looked to Obi-Wan
for confirmation. Obi-Wan gave her a short nod, signaling to her that it was
right to tell the Council. Siri continued, "Each
child spoke. 'We are faith, hope, love.'"
"'Keep us in your hearts and we will always be with you.'" Obi-Wan
finished the message.
The Council fell momentarily silent, taking in the thought.
"An important message for us all, it is," Yoda espoused. "Especially in this time of growing darkness."
A terrible
darkness fell upon the Jedi, and one by one they were destroyed and their
Stories began to flourish about the Jedi and they took on great proportions.
The knights became examples of heroes, martyrs, and legends. Though it was
forbidden to have anything to do with the Jedi in any way, parents all over the
galaxy secretly began to tell their children the tales of the knights and their
virtuous ways. A new generation of men and women grew up with these stories and
were inspired to act against injustice just as the Jedi had once done. Ordinary
beings accomplished extraordinary things and finally, the Empire was overthrown
and a new light dawned.
While legendary stories abounded about different knights and their heroism, smaller
stories also took root about the
After the fall of the Empire, Luke Skywalker, the last of the Jedi, visited the
"Leia, look!" Luke
exclaimed incredulously, when he stumbled upon the flowers. "There is
nothing but death and destruction throughout the entire
Leia came over to the spot where the flowers were and
gave Luke an odd look. "It is very strange, Luke." She bent down to
examine the flowers, barely caressing the soft petals with her fingers, and
sighed, "Stranger still is the color of these flowers."
"What do you mean?"
"In many cultures the colors of flowers can have special meanings. This
white one is symbolic of faith. The warm yellow means hope, and the bold red,
of course, is love."
As a Jedi, Luke believed there were no coincidences in the Force and he took
the flowers as a sign. He took special care to uproot the flowers, so that he
could transplant them to Yavin IV where he was
starting the
Soon after the flowers had begun to grow healthy on Yavin
IV, Luke took cuttings of all three back to his sister for her to keep in her
apartment on Coruscant. Leia
cared for the plants meticulously and they grew strong in her home. When she
had to be gone on diplomatic missions for weeks at a time she made sure the
flowers were properly taken care of. Even her children took notice of her
dedication to the flowers.
"Mom, why do you love those three plants so much?" A young teenage Jaina asked her one day.
"These flowers are special and they should be given special care," Leia answered.
"Mom, those flowers grow like weeds at the Academy. If something happened
to yours, I'm sure Uncle Luke would be happy to bring you more," Jacen remarked.
"It wouldn't be the same, Jacen. These plants
are special just like each of you and they are not replaceable." Then Leia explained to them the story of how she and Luke found
the flowers.
"Why do you suppose they lived so long in the ruins, Mom?" Jaina asked charmed by the story.
"I don't know, Jaina, but I can't help but feel
there is a very special story behind them and a very special link to our
family," Leia replied as she sprayed the blooms
with a gentle mist.
Upon hearing this a young Anakin Solo wrinkled his
nose and said, "It's probably just a mushy love story."
"Maybe." Leia
admitted with a smile. "But I would sure like to know what that story
is." Leia turned to her son and touched his
cheek with her hand. "And I am certain it abounds with faith, hope and
love."
finis
There is no emotion; there is peace.
There
is no ignorance; there is knowledge.
There
is no passion; there is serenity.
There
is no death; there is the Force.
Jedikma