Title: The Triad Chronicles Book II: Then The Morning Comes
Author(s): Layren and Neon Star
Characters: Qui-Gon, Dooku, OC's
Summary: The Jedi Order is one steeped in tradition. Traditions must change if they are to survive. Can the Order make the necessary changes with enough warning, or will destiny destroy them forever?
Timeframe: Four years after My Dreams Could Be Tomorow
Genre: AU
Authors' Note: We're off to start Book II in the Saga. We're keeping everything here in one thread so as to not clutter the boards with our stories So that explains our title change. We hope it doesn't throw anyone off too much in trying to find us We also have a separate side series that we're going to start posting soon, a Drex/Zephir series, prelude to this series It should be up pretty soon And now, on with the post! Incipius is Latin for "Let it Begin." Thanks to DarthIshtar for the translation.
Prologue: Incipius
"Love does not begin and end the way we seem to think it does. Love is a battle, love is a war; love is a growing up." Henry Louis Mencken
Gray landscape, something different from the darkness, or Shane's dreams. There was no fire, no ash, no sounds of screams. No old memories peeking up from the dust, either his own of both good times, and nightmarish events, or someone else's of the same.
Nothing, but gray, and pure silence. He wasn't sure if it was good or not. It didn't feel bad, or wrong to his understanding. It wasn't his peaceful blackness, when he was too tired to dream, though, and so, he was leery of it.
He wasn't tired enough to gain that peace, and he doubted he would be spared a night if he wasn't. It was his fate to suffer; he had long accepted that for his failings. So what...
Hands seemed to slip across his shoulders, holding him lightly, just tight enough to keep him from turning around. A chest pressed to the back of his wings, as those hands moved, arms coming around to hold him from behind, keeping him from being able to move his own.
Vague panic filled him. This was too real. Unlike his visions, his dreams, his nightmares, where he could always at least separate reality from the night delusions. He was always numb during those... Untouchable in sense, even as his soul bled.
But here... he could feel the warmth of those arms around him, could feel the heat of that body against him. His own body was tensing, was reacting, as if wanting to attack, and completely unable.
The other's breath was hot in his ear, as a rustling sound filled the air, before the gray was blacked out with a night brought on by raven wings. Beautiful, jet black wings, that shone with the darkness. Everything about this other...was so forbiddingly dark, yet not threatening.
It was the darkness of home, the heartbeat of Saren that echoed in his blood, that protected him still, even as he had embraced the light. His vague struggles were easing without a thought, knowing the sense of home, and reacting to it on instinct.
A deep purr vibrated through him, from the other, causing him to almost relax in that gentle but powerful embrace. That only brought more pleasure from the other, who's hold tightened a bit more as the vibrations thrummed through him.
His own kind... This was his own kind. The wings, the purr, those proved it better then anything else might have. A soft sigh escaped him, and he leaned back, surrendering for the moment, knowing it useless to fight, and waste his energy,
A faint chuckle brushed over his ear, deep, powerful. So oddly familiar, yet just as alien to him. He knew this voice, and yet...
You're so much like her, in spirit. I had never thought to see that fire again.
He started a little, wondering at how the other could speak to him from the inside, rather then out. Much like how it was with the bond... Who are you?
I am everything you are destined to become. I am your shadow and you are the reality. But for now, call me La'tranar.
La'tranar? The name was familiar, as if he should have known it, but could not remember it in the whispers of his mind.
It sounds so sweet from you, as it had from her.
That was the second time he had mentioned another, but had left little clues as to who she was... Her?
She who you owe your life to, and who I owe my life to. I will tell you of her, someday. For now, do you know why you are here?
No... he truly didn't. He didn't know where this was, though he felt it was inside himself, or how this other had come to join him there.
The visions bother you, don't they? You can't control them, no matter how much they try to help you.
He was reluctant to admit it, but the other seemed to pick up his thoughts. They tried so hard, his future Master, his bondmates, Master Yoda, Master Zephir. They all tried, but there was little that could be done... Even Yoda had stated that he would need more time, and they would have to wait till that power stopped expanding.
So I thought. They can't understand. You're ability is too strong for the Jedi or the Sith. I know. I can help you.
Help me?
Yes. It's only right. Only I can do so. Only I can understand...
Shane felt his guards relaxing against his will, that seductive voice trailing through him. He tried to drag his defenses up, only to find they wouldn't rise. Just like how he had long since given up in body. This other had full control over him from the beginning, and it frightened him to finally realize that. Yet, it wasn't himself he feared for; it was what this other could do to his bondmates...
Hush. Just rest. I'll teach you slowly. You'll wake with a better understanding. And every night I come to you, the more knowledge you'll gain. You will control them, not them you, as is right.
How can I trust you, when I don't even know who you are? You could hurt them... He had to question it, had to voice that crushing fear. He would not let him hurt them, he would not...
Lips touched his hair, You will find that you already trust me, more then you know. You trust me more then anyone, dearest child. Only I can protect you, only I can hold you, and make you feel safe in my wings. I am the sunset to the night you'll help bring. But do not fear, you alone are my business, I won't touch them...
Those words seemed to drain his energy to the barest depths, leaving him slack and boneless in the other's steadying grip. His head felt heavy, his eyelids even more so, long before one hand detached to cover over his eyes.
That's my dearest. Close your eyes, sleep, gain your strength. Tonight, I make my first move, and you will allow it. Because we are one, were from the moment the Force broke you, and put you in this shell. You are mine, my beloved child.
Completely lax, Shane didn't hear the last of his words, mind already sinking into the abyss of rest, lost before the second kiss was laid upon his neck.
Theron smiled ever so slightly, gathering the slumbering child's dream form into his arms, cradling his bounty close as he started to concentrate on taming his descendant's vastly wild mind.
Your turn, Merrick. Move wisely
So you've made your move.
Merrick could see it, in everything Callister was doing. He looked more at ease, as he sat there, watching his bondmates play, while their little girl companion chattered in his ear. The soft black that had been under his eyes was nearly gone, stating of how rested he was. His smiles were a little easier, his eyes a little less haunted. His soul a little less burdened and in pain.
Quite a challenge. Wouldn't you say, beloved?
He didn't expect an answer. For once, Zamir was sleeping, after finally being allowed to feed after nearly six months. Merrick knew he had been cruel in forcing such a thing on him, but he had known Theron was making his move, and he wanted to be there to see it.
And he had. He had watched that dark spirit slip in so silently while the boy was defenseless, and take possession of what had been the Sith Lord's from the start.
He wasn't worried though. They were just finally starting the game, after letting them have two years of peace. It was regretful, but there was nothing for it. Their destiny was too great not to be controlled.
Which meant he had to move, his piece was waiting to be claimed, but he had to be subtle. He knew Zamir had laid the very ground work, accidentally speaking with the boy once before. He hadn't missed the lack of a certain gem about his beloved's neck, nor it's reappearance around the little one's.
But it had been three years, and this time, it wouldn't be an accident.
It was now time.
A stiff wind blew, whipping his robes as Drex Rixar sat on his balcony. The air was pleasant for the autumn of the year and with a warm mug of tea in his hands, he thought about the future. Shane was ready to be his apprentice. He knew the boy was ready, but Kyran and Qui-Gon were probably not ready to be separated from their bondmate on a long term basis. He frowned a little as he considered. This was a problem he had not had to deal with when he had chosen Ren. He had had no one else to consider but the boy. Now he had to take into account the effect of losing their bondmate would have on Kyran and Qui-Gon. He wondered if Zephir thought Kyran was ready yet. If he were, then things would be even harder for the little one to lose both bondmates. He frowned into his mug as he considered trying to decide what to do.
Normally he would have discussed things with Zephir, but Zephir was away on an extended mission. Drex had no idea when he would return. It was very quiet without him – very lonely, but at least he still had the bond with Shane, that kept things from being unbearably silent.
He stared at his reflection in the brown depths of the mug. His face had aged noticeably and... was that gray he saw in his hair? He scowled a little at that. Though he knew the last several years had aged him... with losing Ren. -- his heart twanged painfully at the reminder -- finding Shane...and the triad.
I think you're still very young looking, Raven, The voice purred as it poured into his mind, while ghostly arms settled about his shoulders, a slender chest pressing to the chair as a face nuzzled his hair.
"I'm only thirty," he complained even as Zamir nuzzled him. "I'm not supposed to be going gray yet."
Stress does that, dearest, the voice cooed, and the slight feel of teeth nipping at his neck came, playful, Don't dwell on it.
Drex snorted a little, and then he frowned at the nip to his neck. Zamir felt a little different to him. "You feel different. Are you all right?"
Of course. What do you mean? curious, but untroubled, Zamir's lips marked where he had nipped.
"You feel...older. Somehow, like you're not yourself." He thought of what Zamir had said to him -- that Merrick had awakened, but surely this was not Merrick.
A little laugh, Older? My dearest Raven, I am old.
"I know you are but.." he struggled to try and say what he wanted to but he didn't know how to say it. "You still feel off."
Perhaps because it's been a while.
"No it's not that. I think you feel like someone I'm familiar with and not at the same time," his brow furrowed.
How odd. Perhaps Merrick's influence of late, a soft sigh whispered past his ear.
"Perhaps," he said uneasily. Something still wasn't right. He frowned a little. "You said you have all of Merrick's thoughts and memories and that Merrick had awakened..." he went quiet for a few minutes. He bit his lip uncertainly wondering how to phrase the question without being offensive. With Zamir feeling odd to him -- maybe... maybe this really wasn't Zamir...
He pondered a little. He looked like him. Some part of him felt like him -- but not the entirety. How could that be?
Petal soft lips touched his cheek, So I did. That does affect my nature somewhat. You didn't know me before I lost him... That's probably why. I'm complete now, after all.
"Stop playing games, Zamir. What's going on?" He knew something was up and Zamir was beating around the bush not telling him. He knew there was more to it than the other was letting on. He didn't like being toyed with.
I did actually come here for a reason. Merrick did send me... He merely wished to suggest a way to help your dilemma.
"Or could it possibly be that you are Merrick, merely using Zamir for your purposes to gain my trust?" Drex had stood by this time, and pulled away. It had almost worked too. He had almost believed him.
Zamir frowned a little, "Why would you say that, Drex? What need would he have to do something like that when he could just ask me to do anything he pleased?"
"I don't know. But I don't' trust you right now in that form -- your eyes aren't Zamir's. Oh they look like it enough -- but I can tell by looking into them, Merrick."
Instead of continuing, the facade dropped, blue swirling into those brilliant green eyes, dimming them, "I am impressed," the voice was deeper.
Drex smiled tightly. "Glad you approve."
"Indeed. Forgive me for underestimating you. I had thought you would be more comfortable receiving the advice from a friend."
"I would feel more comfortable without false appearances," he retorted. "I've seen enough in my time not to trust anyone. Zamir has gained my trust. You however, have not."
"Forgive me then. I would have sent him in truth, but he's just fed, and is very tired. Besides, I felt it best to relay this myself, rather then leave it to his hands," Merrick stated.
"Really?" Despite his earlier mistrust, Drex was intrigued.
Merrick nodded a little, "You worry for how to separate them, since it is coming to the time when they will be ready to be apprentices."
Drex glanced out at the stars that were beginning to appear. "Yes."
"What I suggest, is to take it slow. Prepare them for being apart. Their bond will grow strong enough that it won't bother them to be so," Merrick stated.
"You suggest separating them slowly?" He considered this. "But I was planning on asking Shane to be my padawan now."
"Now is not the time. They're not ready for it. For now, taking him once or twice every week will help. Slowly you'll increase the amount of time, going from one to two, to three, to four, and so on, till you don't bring him back."
"They're not ready? But Shane is more than ready and Kyran is nearly there," he protested.
"It would do them harm to be separated without preparation," Merrick pointed out.
"Would it?" He frowned a little. "But they're always together in their bond. They would realize they weren't far away from each other wouldn't they?'
"Not without preparation to allow their bond to grow that strong, Right now, they need to be physically close, to feel complete, to feel safe. They've never been fully separated, since they were brought together."
Drex considered. "That is true," he admitted. He had not thought about that fact.
"It would only take a year or so, to prepare them. It will make them stronger."
"So you think it is in their best interests that I wait until they are more prepared," it made sense, and really it was a good solution to the problem he had been considering. He knew that Shane would not like being separated from them so abruptly.
Merrick nodded a little, "I know it is for the best."
Drex was quiet for a long moment before he finally said, "It would solve the problem," he admitted reluctantly.
Another little tilt of the head, "I knew you would see the wisdom in it."
"Did you? What made you so sure?" Drex's brow furrowed.
"I suppose Zamir never told you that I was a Seer," that was his answer to him.
Surprise crossed Drex's face at that. "No, he did not."
A slighter smile, "Then he probably also didn't mention that I was a Jedi before my death. That I watched this Temple rise from its very first stones," he gestured out, "All that, I remember as fields, meadows as far as the eye could see, the capital just beginning around us."
"This? Fields?" Drex had a hard time imagining the endless cityscape ever being grassy. It was almost unfathomable.
A little nod, a sad smile, "Yes. So many years ago, things had been so different..." he forced himself to focus, looking to Drex again, "Yet, this is where it began, and where it will end."
"Where what will end? The Order?" He asked frowning.
"If the Force wills it. That is why it sent them to us," the tilt of his head was Zamir's movement, more comfortable to him then what would have been his own.
"I know," Drex replied softly. "I only hope it is not so."
"As do I. That is why I am here. Why Zamir is," he pressed a hand to his heart, "To guide the future."
Drex nodded. "I know. He has told me."
"Good. Then what shall you do with the advice I've given?" Merrick asked.
Drex considered. "I will go to the Council," he said at last. "I will talk to them about this. It is a good suggestion."
Merrick nodded a little, "I am glad for that."
"I was concerned about the idea of just coldly ripping them away," Drex admitted.;
"As you should be," Merrick admitted, "You may suit as a Master for one of them."
Drex's eyes narrowed darkly at that. "May?"
"Do you believe yourself worthy of the burden?"
"I believe I am a fit Master for Shane," he said, his eyes narrowing.
"Then pray you live up to that claim."
The sun was going down as the Council finished their business. Mission reports had been received and handed out to Jedi teams and solo knights when appropriate. Discussion had been good that day, Sehan noted. It had been very productive.
"Is there any further business before we conclude for the evening?"
"Yes," a new voice spoke up. "I have something, my Masters."
The newcomer strode to the center of the chamber and faced the Council of twelve Masters.
"Master Rixar," Master Yoda sounded pleased to see him. "Something to say have you?"
"Yes," He inclined his head in thanks that the master gave him the floor. He took a steadying breath, to calm his nerves. "I request that I be allowed to begin preparing Shane Callister to becoming my apprentice."
Whispers broke out among the Councilors, and the Senior Councilor allowed them to run through before he waved his hand for silence. "Initiate Callister is only eight standard years old, when do you intend to ask him?" Sehan asked, his voice slightly cold.
"I intended to ask him at the end of this year," Drex replied meeting the Councilor's gaze. "But since the bond between him and Kyran and Qui-Gon is so strong, it would be best if we started grooming them towards separation rather than taking them away so abruptly. It might ease the transition and allow them to train themselves to block each other out."
"Separation for them you suggest hrm?" Master Yoda's ears twitched slightly.
"I agree," Councilor Rhy'ul, two places down from Yoda, spoke up. "If we were to allow them to be taken as padawans without any preparation, things could deteriorate when Kyran and Shane are first assigned missions. Especially if something were to go wrong on a mission."
Sumi Gisk'yla shifted position, his fur rippling slightly. "I'm inclined to agree with Master Rixar's suggestion. I also suggest that Master Zephir work with Initiate Josel while Master Rixar works with Initiate Callister."
"But what about Initiate Jinn?" Quix Zarckot asked. "If he remains alone in the crèche, he could feel some resentment and abandonment towards being left behind," he pointed out.
"I don't think so," Rhyysa Shinte objected. "Their bond is such that I do believe they will be able to tolerate the separation. They are always together inside the bond and it is physically impossible to separate them from it. In that regard, they should be able to rely on it when they are separated to avoid the feelings of abandonment and resentment. I think they would realize their bondmate was not far away, especially if they are prepared in advance."
"Possibly," Master Zarckot conceded. "Their bond is unlike in any other in that regard."
"Their bond is unlike any other in all regards," Rhy'ul pointed out. "It is essential that we understand it and their needs."
"Agree with you I do," Master Yoda spoke up then. "Necessary understanding is to make changes they need. Do what is best for them we will."
"I suggest that Initiate Josel and Callister trade different days to work with their prospective Masters," Yaddle suggested.
"A good suggestion," Sehan agreed, his eyes narrowing slightly. "When Josel works with Ke'dran, Callister will stay behind with Jinn. When Callister works with Rixar, Josel will be with Jinn."
"But what about their other crèche classes and assignments? Until they are fully ready to be Padawans, they still will have to keep up with their lessons," Tyrral Cormin spoke up.
"If we do it on a two day a week schedule, it should be doable," the Quemerian Jedi Master spoke up. "That way it won't detract from their studies or tire them out too much."
"I suggest beginning at two days a week as Master Doneta suggests, and then increasing the time when they become closer to being ready," Cond Siln chimed in.
"I agree," Master Yoda said thoughtfully from his chair.
"I suggest we put things to a formal vote and then add this information to their files," Master Zarckot suggested.
"Aye."
"Aye."
"Aye."
"It's settled then. The agreement is unanimous. Separated they will be. Information we will add and inform their proper teachers, we will. Talk to them you should," the small Master directed his gaze back to Rixar, who was still standing in the center of the chamber.
Drex bowed respectfully. "Thank you for your time, my Masters. I have nothing further to add."
"Dismissed you are then, begin making proper arrangements you should," Yoda directed.
Drex bowed again before he turned and left the chambers. Things could not have gone better in his opinion. Now all he had to do was inform Shane that he would be working with him a few days a week. He only hoped he had made a wise decision in accepting Merrick's advice.