Disclaimer: Again: this story and characters do not belong to me, unfortunately, because that means I've to do this for fun and not make a cent out of it!
– / –
A/N: This is a very, very long chapter here. But, please bear with me. I thought it important to establish how Obi-Wan ended up in the Middle-Earth and how he could come to deal with it. I don't know about you, but I prefer it when things seem real (even if they are just fantasy). So, on with the story, hope you enjoy it!
– / –
I
The Man Who Fell From Beyond the Stars
"You should rest." Whispered a soft and serene voice into Obi-Wan's ear.
"Where…where am I?" Grunted Obi-Wan in a barely audible whisper, as he found his voice.
The Jedi Master still wasn't exactly certain of what had happened to him. All he knew was that it hurt just to breathe and that his head felt as if an invisible mallet kept pounding on it mercilessly. Next, Obi-Wan realized that a heavy bandage had been placed over the tan-colored tunic that covered his chest and his head was also heavily bandaged. The Jedi Master also noticed right away that he couldn't move as he was lying on the ground, tied up with a soft golden rope that felt as tight as durasteel around his entire body.
"Rest." Insisted the same ethereal voice. "I do not know whence you came from, but we have tended to your injuries as best we could. You have suffered serious wounds that required immediate medical attention."
You don't say! Obi-Wan couldn't help thinking with sarcasm, as he carefully bent his neck and watched the amazing creature that knelt before him.
The moment the Jedi Master laid eyes on him, he immediately assumed that this being must be one of the famous 'angels' that dwell in the moons of Iego. He was a tall, blonde, long-haired humanoid, who had big, steely, blue eyes; and rather large, pointy ears; his face was covered with a thin beard, not so different from Obi-Wan's.
At first glance, the humanoid's face looked young, though through the Force, the Jedi Master could sense that this creature was much older than he appeared. His lanky body was covered with large, light blue robes adorned with curious golden patterns that appeared to be some kind of written language, one which Obi-Wan found impossible to understand.
Before the Jedi Master could continue to analyze the fascinating and mysterious sentient who knelt before him, he sensed the arrival of yet more creatures. These four new arrivals were not much taller than a human child and the manner in which they had approached was cautious and almost imperceptible.
With a grunt, Obi-Wan turned and stared at these creatures. He noticed that they all looked alike; their hair was light brown and curly. Their faces were jolly and round, they had pointy ears and their feet, extremely long and hairy, were definitely something that caught the Jedi's eye, they wore no shoes. It wasn't necessary to feel them through the Force, since the mixture of curiosity, fear and confusion that Obi-Wan could see reflected on their faces would have been enough to give them away.
Slowly, the Jedi Master began to collect his thoughts and he soon realized that he still couldn't figure out just where in the Galaxy he might've ended up. Nevertheless Obi-Wan decided to regulate his breathing, relax and remain aware. He tried to look around, as far as his binds would let him and he could see that he was lying on the soft grass of what seemed to be a small clear in an otherwise very large and dark forest.
The wind was blowing in the fresh ways that announce the arrival of the fall season and a distant fire offered faint light to the small clear where the Jedi was lying. Obi-Wan immediately decided that this was a camp of some sort, where at least one hundred male and female 'angels' could be found, in addition to the four smaller humanoids.
Surviving under the most dire conditions was an integral part of Jedi training, which meant Obi-Wan was certainly no stranger to a campfire. Still, it had been ages since he had seen one! Iego, if that was were he was, was nowhere near Utapau and that led him to wonder just where exactly was it that he was and what kind of creatures would these strange beings turn out to be. Suddenly, the tall humanoid's soft voice brought Obi-Wan out of his reverie.
"I can see that you understand the Common Tongue," observed the blue-eyed 'angel', clearly as intrigued with the man before that lie before him as Obi-Wan was with the whole situation. "Who are you and where have you come from?"
Common Tongue? Thought the Jedi immediately, with a strange mixture of curiosity and confusion. Well, they certainly speak Basic, but they do it in a very odd way.
Obi-Wan's long years of training and experience demanded that he remain mindful of everything around him; the Jedi Master had always been taught to expect the unexpected and never to take anything at face value. So, he decided to concentrate and delve deep into the Force, trying to figure out just what kind of trouble was he exactly in.
His keen senses told him that he had nothing to fear from these creatures. But, despite that, Obi-Wan decided that he should remain extremely cautious. Iego was no enemy of the Republic, but chances of him winding up in some separatist controlled system were still too great, not to mention his clonetroopers had just turned on him, which meant he couldn't be too sure of anything anymore.
"My name is Kenobi…Ben Kenobi." Answered the Jedi finally with some effort; he was still suffering from a terrible headache and keeping his senses alert and awake just seemed to increase the throbbing pain. "My ship suffered severe damage because of the war…"
The expression of enormous confusion and incomprehension that took hold of the ethereal humanoid's visage forced Obi-Wan to stop in mid-sentence. He could clearly see that this blonde-haired being had not understood a word.
While Obi-Wan was trying to figure this out, he noticed that many more 'angels' had come closer. If he really were on enemy territory, the situation could become much worse real quick. The Jedi Master tried to feel his utility belt instinctively and just as he suspected, his lightsaber was gone, along with all of the possessions that he used to carry around his waist.
Are you looking for something in particular? Said the blue-eyed 'angel' that knelt before Obi-Wan, incapable of hiding his great interest and curiosity.
No. He didn't say it…he thought it!
No matter who these amazing creatures were their strength in the Force was simply extraordinary!
"This…" insisted the blonde 'angel' as he raised his right hand and brought it up, just a few centimeters away from Obi-Wan's face.
Lying peacefully in the palm of his hand, the Jedi Master could see the silver, metallic, elliptical handle of his deactivated weapon. As his eyes fixed on his laser sword, Obi-Wan sent a telepathic warning into the mind of the ethereal humanoid.
You better be careful with that, was his thought, not even bothering to hide his real identity anymore. Whoever these creatures were, it made no sense to think that they hadn't already figured out having captured a Jedi Knight. Every sentient in the Galaxy knows that a lightsaber should not be handled lightly…
"Saber?" Replied the bearded humanoid out loud, with piqued curiosity and great interest. Obi-Wan could sense this creature's noble nature, but he could also sense that the humanoid was looking at the handle of his weapon with great mistrust. "This is a weapon, then? If so, you mean to say that the blade is broken?"
"What?" Cried out Obi-Wan, unable to believe what he was hearing. "The blade is deactivated!"
The Jedi never knew if he said these words out loud or just thought them.
"Galaxy you said?" Insisted the confused angelical being. "Is that where you have come from? For I have never heard such word before!"
"What are you talking about?" Demanded Obi-Wan, clearly as confused as the humanoid. While he tried to figure out just what exactly was happening, the Jedi took a quick glance around him, looking at the crowd that surrounded and looked upon him with unabashed mistrust and fear. By now, twenty more 'angels' had approached, all as beautiful and radiant as Obi-Wan's blonde 'host'. In addition, the four confused and curious small humanoids couldn't stop staring at the bearded Jedi. They couldn't even blink. "Could anyone of you please tell me just where the blazes I am?"
"I do not understand your words, dear friend," said the ethereal humanoid in response. His tone was kind and serene, though he was incapable of hiding the expression of great confusion that still permeated his gentle face. "We are in the Shire. In the region of Eriador."
The names were as alien to Obi-Wan as the fascinating humanoids that surrounded him. Though, in a vast galaxy, full of star systems, planets and countless life forms, it would've been impossible to know it all. Even for a Jedi.
"I'm sorry. I have lied to you," Obi-Wan said softly, as he remembered the way he had lost control of his star fighter and consciousness. "My real name is Obi-Wan Kenobi. I am a Jedi Knight and General of the Grand Army of the Republic. I was ambushed…I can't explain it, but my troops turned on me. I ended up caught between my pursuers and some kind of…electric storm…I'm not entirely sure…some kind of cosmic phenomenon that I'm still trying to figure out. That's all I can remember."
The blonde 'angel' tried to take it all in, after which he responded softly, "I still cannot believe what I have just heard." Said the humanoid with a simple and honest voice. "But we do know that you have descended from the sky…perhaps from even beyond the Stars. However, I cannot begin to understand your words."
"What?" Asked an incredulous Obi-Wan for the second time. "You mean to say you know nothing about the Jedi…about the Republic? You don't know anything about the Galaxy…about the war?"
As he was saying this, memories began to flush the mind of the Jedi Master; he remembered the painful and unexpected betrayal of Count Dooku, seduced by the dark side of the Force…the great battle of Geonosis that signaled the beginning of the Great Clone Wars…the Republican clone troopers that had fought so valiantly under his command countless times…until they had betrayed him and tried to murder him in cold blood…his desperate escape attempt…Anakin, his former Padawan learner and best friend…his…his…
At that precise moment, Obi-Wan fixed his gaze on the face of his 'host', whose mouth was wide open. Somehow, the images that had just flushed through Obi-Wan's mind had been projected into the mind of this ethereal being. The creature had seen every image as vividly as the Jedi Master himself had.
"You are no mere Mortal Man!" Cried the humanoid finally, in complete awe and shock. "In spite of the way you look! Tall, fair and white-skinned, just as any other Man…your eyes, green and gleaming as emeralds…light brown hair and beard, like any Dúnadan…Alas! You do not belong to the Middle-Earth! What are you? A Maia, perhaps?"
"Now, I'm the one who's extremely confused." Mused Obi-Wan, unable to comprehend one word that the 'angel' had spoken. "Middle-Earth? Dúnadan? Maia?"
As soon as he had heard Obi-Wan's words, the tall and lanky being began to project telepathic images into the mind of the Jedi.
What Obi-Wan saw and felt shocked him so, that he felt like another black cloud was taking over his senses. The last images the Jedi Master was able to see before fainting again were those of a spectacular battle, taking place in a dark land surrounding a huge volcano. There, thousands of ethereal 'angels' fought alongside thousands of humans against monstrous gray-skinned creatures, similar to the Noghri of planet Honoghr, with weapons so old that he would've had a hard time finding any records of them in the vast Archives of the Jedi Temple!
"I warned you." Said the blue-eyed humanoid softly, as Obi-Wan was coming back around. At least, the Jedi Master was relieved to discover that the headache that had been pounding his head mercilessly was now gone along with his binds. "You should have rested and not been so upset. All of this is quite queer…Incomprehensible, I should say."
It's no less confusing to me. Thought the Jedi Master on instinct.
As he perceived Obi-Wan's thoughts, the strange humanoid just nodded.
"Although you certainly look like a mere Mortal Man, it is quite clear to me now that you belong to the Great Void in the Heavens." Added the 'angel'. "Farther beyond the Star of Eärendil the Sailor, which protects this Old World and perhaps, even beyond the reaches of the Blessed Realm of Valinor. Yet, I can see that no spy of the Enemy, nor a foul creature you are, for I have felt great kindness, valor and nobility in you."
"Well, I am a Jedi." Came Obi-Wan's soft and semi-automatic reply, as he tried to stand. The right side of his chest was still hurting and he still found it hard to breathe. "Those images you projected into my head…they were quite strange, actually similar to a holodrama. But I have reached a conclusion: I'm not in any known system in the Galaxy. I don't recall any information regarding a star system or planet called Middle-Earth recorded in the Archives of the Jedi Temple."
"I do not understand your words, Master Obi-Wan." Replied the ethereal sentient, incapable of hiding the great mix of confusion and curiosity that now seemed to adorn his handsome visage permanently. "Although I do know that wherever you have come from, a great darkness has swallowed the light, my dear 'Jedâi' friend…"
"I'm afraid explanations will have to wait." interrupted Obi-Wan briskly. There was no time for diplomacy. The Jedi Master had to establish where he was and what kind of situation he had gotten himself into. "Could anyone of you be as kind as to lead me back to where my ship crash-landed?"
The ethereal humanoid smiled warmly at the Jedi Master and nodded. Then, he turned to one of his companions and the second 'angel' approached slowly, carrying a small golden jar between his hands. The jar was decorated with the strange writings Obi-Wan had noticed before in the silky robes that the fascinating humanoids wore.
"First, you must drink." Said the angelical creature, still smiling gently, while the second creature offered the jar to Obi-Wan. Just like the blue-eyed humanoid had sensed in him, the Jedi Master could feel that these strange beings were good and kind. Somehow, they even reminded him of Master Yoda. Despite their young appearance, Obi-Wan could see a certain wisdom reflected in their eyes, wisdom that can only be acquired through time and experience, which meant that these beings were probably much older than they seemed. Undoubtedly, these humanoids were indeed of a kind and generous nature.
So, Obi-Wan allowed the second humanoid to place the jar between his lips and he drank. Whatever this mysterious elixir happened to be it certainly had a much better taste than any Alderaanian wine. It was soft and sweet and it seemed to roll off the tongue. Obi-Wan was reminded of the sweet taste of Chandrilan syrup and, little by little, the Jedi Master's strength began to return. Obi-Wan felt like he had never been as aware of the Force as he was in that instant…
It was flowing inside him like never before!
Wherever he was, the Jedi Master was aware of everything around him. He confirmed that there were over one hundred 'angels' in the camp, in addition to the four smaller humanoids. The woods around the campfire had suffered severe damage caused by his unexpected crash-landing, but the region seemed to be as quiet and pleasant as the usually fertile green fields of Naboo…or at least that's how it felt at the time.
"My name is Gildor." Said the ethereal creature, bringing Obi-Wan out of his reverie. "I am an Eldar or Elf, as they call our Race in the Common Tongue. You are, as I have already said, in the land known as The Shire. And they…'" Gildor went on, pointing in the direction of the small and curious humanoids. "…They are Hobbits."
They are in grave peril! Said Gildor via telepathy to Obi-Wan, as he handed the deactivated handle of the lightsaber back to the Jedi Master. Alas! I know not what kind of powers shall protect them, but I am afraid ours shall not suffice. And it is not our duty to do so after tonight.
Obi-Wan just nodded in understanding, as he took his lightsaber and smiled in the direction of the four small humanoids or Hobbits. The four beings approached slowly and cautiously.
"Come closer, my friends!" Said a smiling Gildor, reassuring the Hobbits, while he pointed Obi-Wan's way. "This Man shall not bring any harm upon you, for I have felt the way the grief of the forest has saddened him deeply."
"That's right." Said Obi-Wan softly, as the rest of the Elves smiled sympathetically his way. "A Jedi respects and defends all kinds of life. It is our mandate."
Clearly fascinated by this mysterious human being who had fallen from the stars right into their forest, the four Hobbits approached, though they were clearly hesitant.
"Hello there!" Said a smiling Obi-Wan, as he rubbed his wrists and placed his lightsaber back on his utility belt. "May I know your names?"
Each one introduced himself to the Jedi Master in turn. However, despite the confidence shown towards Obi-Wan by Gildor and his people, none of the four small and round Hobbits seemed to entirely trust this mysterious human who had 'come from beyond the Stars'. The most hesitant and wary was the thinnest of all four, the one called Frodo Baggins. As he began talking to Frodo, Samwise Gamgee, Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took, Obi-Wan began to scan his injuries through the Force.
The headache was completely gone and though he had suffered some cracked ribs during the crash-landing; the bandages applied by the Elves seemed to be resistant enough. The Jedi Master could walk and breathe with little difficulty, so he decided to stretch his muscles and regain all of his energy. Under the circumstances, Obi-Wan decided that his ribs would heal in no time, as long as he could count with the miraculous and amazing healing potions of the Elves.
Aware that he'd need to remain as agile as possible, Obi-Wan asked if the Elves could place their expert bandages under his tunic. They complied and applied a fresh set of bandages right under the Jedi Master's tan tunic. But, before they did so, they decided to rub a rather strange and oily substance that felt warm and soft around Obi-Wan's bare chest and back. As the Elves were going about their healing procedures, the Jedi Master decided to explain more about the Jedi Order and their purpose as guardians of peace and justice in the Galaxy to Gildor, the Hobbits and the rest of the people that had gathered around him.
"I really need to get back to my ship." Said Obi-Wan, as soon as he was done with his brief recap about the Jedi. "I want to go over the flight logs and find out just how in the stars I came to this planet."
"It shall be our pleasure to assist you, Master Obi-Wan." Replied a smiling Gildor, as he signaled for two of his companions to approach. "For some time now, it has not been the business of the Elves to meddle with the affairs of Middle-Earth. Alas! I fear that walking the woods tonight shall not be safe and…you are a stranger to our world, after all."
"Walking alone is no problem for a Jedi." Came the automatic response of Obi-Wan. "Though I do appreciate your concern, Gildor."
"Well, this is unheard of!" Cried the small voice of a terrified Hobbit. Obi-Wan turned and looked down to see Samwise 'Sam' Gamgee, Frodo Baggins' gardener and best friend, who was looking back at the Jedi Master with a wide-eyed expression on his jolly, chubby face. "I can tell you haven't laid eyes on those terrifying Black Riders! No sir, you haven't!"
"Black riders?" Asked an intrigued Obi-Wan softly. "Could someone tell me what this Hobbit is talking about?"
Before Sam could answer, Gildor raised his right hand to quiet the terrified Hobbit and proceeded to project telepathic images into the mind of Obi-Wan.
What the Jedi Master saw in his mind was astonishing!
Obi-Wan Kenobi had been titled as a Jedi Knight after defeating a terrifying Sith Lord on Naboo, during the conflict between that planet and the greedy Trade Federation. The Black Riders were just as fearsome and horrifying as that tattooed dark lord. Completely covered by jet-black cloaks, the nightmarish creatures rode on wild horses that were as black as their masters' robes and will. Gildor sent a mental warning into Obi-Wan's head, telling the Jedi Master that the Black Riders were presently scanning The Shire, searching for the Hobbits. Obi-Wan tried to feel their presence through the Force, but to no avail.
The Jedi Master was quick to realize that these evil creatures were so deeply entrenched in the dark side, that he'd never be able to sense them. Somehow, Obi-Wan knew that the time would come for him to face the ghastly riders and he could only wish that Anakin were at his side when that time came. He was alone, however, and could only rely on guile, experience and trust in the Force when the time came to face the Black Riders. In the meantime, the Jedi Master would have to keep his eyes wide open. As the Elves were finished with their healing procedures, Obi-Wan picked up his utility belt and placed it back around his waist.
Immediately, Gildor handed all of his possessions back to Obi-Wan; a backpack that contained four Bacta patches, a small but powerful set of macrobinoculars, two small packages of compressed food and finally, a rather small but very handy laser lighter. The images of the riders had been so unsettling that Obi-Wan decided to indulge himself, while trying to reassure his friends that he would be a formidable opponent for any potential foe. Anticipating the look on the faces of Elves and Hobbits alike, the Jedi Master smiled widely as he took his lightsaber in his hands, ready to activate its bright, blue laser blade.
"Well, my dear Samwise," said Obi-Wan in a confident voice. "I can assure you those black riders have never laid their eyes on a Jedi lightsaber…"
Obi-Wan was already pressing the ignition button, even before he was finished.
Nothing happened!
A look of deep confusion and concern flashed in Obi-Wan's face as he immediately realized that his lightsaber had been severely damaged during the crash-landing. It was all the Jedi Master could do to wish the damage were not irreversible. He looked straight into the crowd and right away recognized the confusion that permeated their faces.
Under any other type of circumstance, Obi-Wan would've probably burst out in laughter. But in that precise moment, he didn't feel like laughing. Not even a chuckle or a grin. Sighing in frustration, he decided that he'd check on his weapon sometime later that same night. For the time being, he had more pressing needs, such as establishing where he was and just how had he managed to get there.
"I do not know what kind of powers you may possess, my friend." Said Gildor in a sympathetic tone. "Yet, you shall not despair, for all broken blades shall be forged anew!"
Right! Thought Obi-Wan with his usual wit and trying not to project his thoughts to the Elves. As long as that blade happens to be a really old metal blade!
Mäeothrin and Célerbel were the names of the two Elves that Gildor had assigned to guide Obi-Wan back into the thick and dark woods of The Shire.
Elves, thought the Jedi Master again, were really amazing creatures. It was astounding to see the way that his two guides walked over the thick, soft grass not making a sound. Glided, would be a more adequate description, as Obi-Wan mentally corrected. They were as quiet as they were serene and the procession remained in silence, until they reached the place where General Grievous' former star fighter had crashed.
Slowly and with extreme caution, Obi-Wan climbed back into the cockpit, after having taken a good, long look at the damaged star fighter. At first glance, the craft looked awful. The right side of the ship was a total wreck due to the damage created by the incessant laser fire of the clone fighters and the canopy's transparisteel was severely damaged from the crash.
Obi-Wan immediately realized that even if all of the fighter's vital functions were undamaged, he would find it impossible to fly this wreck and go back to the point where he was supposed to meet with Senator Organa, who by that time, must have left already. Once again, the Jedi Master took a deep, long breath as he quietly boarded the damaged craft's cockpit. Once inside, things started to look a little bit more promising.
All systems appeared to be in good flying conditions, including ignition, sublight engines, hyperdrive and life support, which meant that should the Jedi Master find some kind of repair shop, somewhere in this planet called Middle-Earth, then getting the ship back in flying conditions wouldn't prove so difficult. The trick, of course, would be to find such a place in this backwater planet and that, judging by the technology or lack thereof that Obi-Wan had seen in the Elf camp, didn't seem likely.
It didn't seem likely at all.
The Jedi Master took a deep, steadying breath, as he decided to put his worries in the back of his mind and concentrate on the task at hand. He searched the interior of the small craft's cockpit for anything he might find useful in this unexpected journey to a mysterious land called Middle-Earth and found two thermal detonators, along with a small but powerful datapad that he immediately proceeded to hook into the star fighter's navicomputer.
The datapad's memory was potent and the flight log began to download at a very rapid rate. It was imperative for the Jedi Master to establish and pinpoint his exact location. Maybe then, he'd be able to send a distress signal and, while his hopes were faint, some ally could pick it up and come to his aid. As soon as the information had been downloaded into the datapad, Obi-Wan turned on the small screen and fixed his intelligent gaze on it. He immediately sensed four bright eyes that looked upon him with unbridled curiosity.
The Jedi Master looked up from the datapad's screen to glance at Mäeothrin and Célerbel; clearly, the small electronic devise was as alien to them as it was fascinating and Obi-Wan couldn't help but smile at the expressions the two Eldar or Elves wore on their faces. His smile, however, disappeared in a flash as the Jedi Master read the information displayed on the datapad's screen and he thought that the look of confusion and perplexity displayed on the Elves' faces would pale in comparison to the shock reflected on his bearded visage.
According to the flight records, General Grievous' small and sleek star fighter had traveled from one edge of the infinite Universe to the other in a matter of seconds, not to mention that time appeared to have stood still, making it impossible for the Jedi Master to establish just where he was, but most importantly, when! It was impossible for Obi-Wan to believe what his eyes were seeing. He could be at any point of the Universe and he could be in the present, past or future. There was no ship in the entire Galaxy capable of traveling to the distant planet or system called Middle-Earth; not even the newest, most powerful Republican star cruisers would have been able of accomplishing such a feat!
Obi-Wan's brain tried to take it all in. It tried to comprehend that he was in a galaxy far, far away from his own and, from what he could tell; the technology found on this Middle-Earth was nowhere near as advanced as that of the Known Galaxy. Whether he was in the present, past or future, he was quite certain that there were no spaceships of any kind to be found anywhere on Middle-Earth, which worried him deeply. There was no point in sending a distress signal, for Obi-Wan was sure there would be no ships to pick it up. The deep concern and surprise that his troops sudden betrayal had caused him paled now in comparison to the huge surprise and uncertainty that took hold of him.
"Please forgive me, Master Obi-Wan," asked Mäeothrin shyly, bringing the Jedi Master's attention back to the present time. "But we are most curious about your homeland. Could you please tell us what is it like?"
As he listened to the Elf's polite question, Obi-Wan smiled in spite of himself. He seemed to have forgotten that Elves were unusually strong in the Force and that they could sense his thoughts and read his mind as clearly as any Jedi, if not even with more clarity. He took a deep breath and remembered his late Master's advice on trusting the Living Force and concentrating on the here and now. He was quite aware that letting panic and anxiety take hold would do him no good.
"Well, my friends," Replied Obi-Wan finally. "I come from a planet called Coruscant. I was raised there, in the Jedi Temple, trained as a Jedi by Masters Yoda and Qui-Gon…"
A sudden and unexpected, horrifying wail echoed and bounced off the thick trunks of the huge forest trees interrupted Obi-Wan's tale, sending chills down his spine in the process.
"The Black Riders are nigh!" Whispered an apprehensive Célerbel. "We must return to the camp!"
"I agree." Said Obi-Wan, as he caressed the silver rod that hung on his belt on instinct while his eyes looked deep into the dark depths of the forest, staring in the direction from where the chilling sound had come. "I'm about finished here. There's not much more I can do right now."
Both Elves nodded apprehensively, not caring to hide the seemingly uncontrollable fear that had taken hold of them the moment they heard that terrible and unnatural cry. Obi-Wan quickly abandoned the cockpit of General Grievous' damaged star fighter and rejoined the Elves. With no time to lose, all three beings went back into the woods, wishing to leave that chilling sound as far behind them as they could.
As soon as he was back at the Elf camp, a fascinated Obi-Wan laid his eyes on the group. All of the Elves had gathered round the fire, singing strange but charming chants in a tongue the Jedi Master found impossible to comprehend. Despite this, the feelings and emotions that the minds of the Elves conveyed through the Force seemed clearer to Obi-Wan than any language he had ever heard. The Jedi Master was able not only to understand but also feel the deep melancholy and sorrow that the words were meant to say.
He decided that, even if the physical appearance of the Elves was most pleasant to the eye, their voices evoked feelings of admiration and fascination that went beyond their impressive looks or spiritual presences. Once again, Obi-Wan found these amazing creatures to be exceptionally strong in the Force.
Fair and noble creatures, no doubt, thought the Jedi Master, trying not to project his thoughts to the Elves so as not to interrupt their beautiful chants. Instead, Obi-Wan walked slowly and quietly into a secluded corner of the camp, where he seated on the soft grass and proceeded to carefully study his damaged lightsaber.
The voices of the Elves continued to cheer up the Jedi Master's troubled spirit as he set out to the complex task of disassembling his weapon. Once he had carefully gone over every single component, Obi-Wan was able to locate the problem; the lightsaber's focusing crystal was slightly cracked.
The crack was no larger than a fingernail, but nevertheless this meant that his blade would not ignite. As he checked every other component thoroughly, the Jedi Master was relieved to find out that every part seemed to be undamaged. This way the damage, Obi-Wan knew was not irreversible, but for his lightsaber to work again, he would have to replace the focusing crystal.
The Jedi had always relied on crystals found in the Adega and Ilum systems, but it was no secret that the Sith had found their own source for focusing crystals, which meant that, should Obi-Wan find a similar gem somewhere in the Middle-Earth, his lightsaber would not be permanently damaged. It would be far simpler to find a gem that would work as the source of energy for his laser sword than finding the spare parts needed to repair his damaged spacecraft. It would be ironic having to resort to one of the many secrets of the Sith in order to repair the damaged blade, but extraordinary conditions would always demand extraordinary measures.
Patience was a virtue indispensable to a Jedi and Obi-Wan had developed and mastered it since he was a very young Padawan learner. He knew now that he'd had to muster as much patience as possible.
Right that moment, the Jedi Master glimpsed back at the campfire and noticed Gildor was looking his way, smiling gently. The tall, blue-eyed Elf signaled to one corner of the clear, where Obi-Wan could see two of the Hobbits, Meriadoc and Peregrin, soundly asleep. Frodo and Sam, his faithful servant, lied at one side of Gildor, snoring contentedly. Hobbits, it seemed, had a simpler way of looking at life than a Jedi.
Obi-Wan grinned, placed his lightsaber back in its place, stood up and walked towards Gildor. The Elf took a glass and filled it with wine, offering it to the Jedi Master, as he approached. Obi-Wan took the glass and nodded in gratitude, as Gildor looked deeply into the Jedi's green eyes.
"Have you found what you sought, mellon nin?" Asked Gildor in his own native tongue, as soon as Obi-Wan was seated right next to him.
Mellon. The word was Elvish for 'friend'. Obi-Wan was slightly surprised at discovering that he had been able to understand the Elvish tongue so easily, but he just nodded, though he couldn't hide his concern.
"My starship is badly damaged, Gildor." Said the Jedi Master softly. "As is my weapon. I don't think it'll be possible for me to repair them, unless I'm able to find the parts I need. I've also found out that I'm much farther away from home than I thought at first…"
Obi-Wan let his words trail off as Gildor listened intently. There was no use in sharing his amazing discoveries with the Elf; by now, the Jedi Master was thoroughly convinced the strange cosmic phenomenon that had swallowed the star fighter was some kind of portal that even he could not begin to comprehend.
A Jedi was trained to renounce attachment. The principles of the Jedi Code demanded that no member of the Order fell prey to feelings such as nostalgia and/or melancholy. However, Obi-Wan couldn't help but feel a deep sense of homesickness as he came to realize the possibility that the strange planet called Middle-Earth could very well become his new permanent home.
Flashes of Anakin, his former apprentice, whom he loved as a brother, of the Temple and fellow masters such as Yoda, Mace Windu and Ki-Adi-Mundi filled his mind. Somehow, they were gone. Whether it was by his strange journey or by any other reason, Obi-Wan felt estranged and couldn't come to terms with it yet.
"I understand." Said a thoughtful Gildor, bringing Obi-Wan out of his sad thoughts. It seemed clear to the Jedi Master that this noble creature was aware of the deep and sad feelings that had overcome his new friend. "I could spend all night telling you about the Eldar, our purposes and dreams. I really wish I could help you, alas we shall leave Middle-Earth ere long, never to return."
The nostalgia and melancholy that had taken hold of the Elf's soft voice were far deeper than any such feelings Obi-Wan might have been experiencing at that moment. However, if dwelling on Middle-Earth was the fate the Force had chosen for him, then it was imperative for the Jedi to become much better acquainted with his new and mysterious 'home'.
"Still, I'd be grateful if you could tell me all you can about Middle-Earth." Said Obi-Wan, as he was cleaning the silver rod that was his Jedi weapon with the thick sleeve of his tunic. He had to remain active, mindful of the Living Force, aware of the here and now. "Letting despair and anxiety take over me won't help me solve my problems. I have to admit that I'm not sure if I'll be able to return home and I must know all I can about this place."
Gildor nodded slowly and smiled. As he did, the Elf began to project a flurry of images, thoughts and feelings into the mind of Obi-Wan, explaining the history of the Eldar, from the time of their arrival on Middle-Earth as exiles, up to the time of their imminent departure for a planet or system they called Valinor or 'Blessed Realm', according to its meaning in Elvish. The story, however, was far from being a fairy tale, as Obi-Wan learnt of the countless battles and wars that had punished Middle-Earth since its called First Age or Elder Days, thousands of years earlier. The Jedi Master felt for Gildor, clearly sensing the deep sadness and sorrow that overcame the Elf as he finished telling his tale.
"Curious…" Muttered Obi-Wan after a long and thoughtful silence. Digesting so much information in such a short time was anything but easy. "…The Jedi hold on to the belief that no matter how different we may look, deep inside all creatures in the Universe are somehow connected. We all are an essential part of life and of the eternal energy that we call the Force, which binds the Universe together. Taking this into consideration, Gildor my friend, not too many races of sentient beings would decide to leave their homeland behind, as the Eldar are currently doing. I can see that war has punished these lands with cruelty. I'm truly sorry."
"I am appreciative of your feelings, Master Obi-Wan." Sighed Gildor, smiling sadly. "Alas, we believe that the will of Erú the Almighty, whom we worship as you seem to worship this mysterious Force of Life you have mentioned, is known by no creature of the World. Still, I am also truly sorry for the Darkness that has shrouded your…Galaxy."
"We couldn't stop it." Replied the Jedi Master, in turn telling Gildor more about the history of the Galaxy, including a detailed account of the Sith Wars, the Golden Age of the Galactic Republic, the unexpected and sudden return of the Sith, the conflict known as the Clone Wars, the painful fall of Count Dooku, and finally, the no less painful betrayal suffered at the hands of his troops.
"For over a thousand years, the Jedi Order brought peace and justice to the Republic." Obi-Wan finished with his tale. "Unfortunately, the war has diminished our ranks greatly. Each day, our numbers dwindle and I'm not sure how the conflict will end. I destroyed the monstrous commander of the separatist armies, but we still haven't discovered the location of the elusive Dark Lord of the Sith and…I'm afraid we have lost our ability to see into the future. Seeing how my troops turned on me, I can't help but confirm how the Jedi have lost our ancestral gift of foresight. I suspect I wasn't the only victim of this treacherous betrayal."
Once again, Gildor nodded in sympathy as he heard Obi-Wan's words. The thoughtful Elf took a sip of his glass, inviting his bearded companion to join him.
"I am deeply saddened by your words, Master Obi-Wan, for your Galaxy is not the only realm seriously threatened by the return of an evil Dark Lord." Said Gildor with unabashed sorrow and visibly shaken. "The Black Riders are the servants of Sauron, the Shadow; the Great Enemy of the Free Peoples of Middle-Earth, who has risen from the foul ashes of the abyss with great wrath and thirst for vengeance, not unlike the way the Shadow you call Sith rose again in your Galaxy. The faint hope that the Enemy can be defeated lies now on the small shoulders of the Hobbits. Alas! I fear for Frodo and his companions! I fear the Black Riders shall find them! But of this, I shall speak no more…"
Obi-Wan took a zip of the sweet Elven wine, as Gildor shifted his weight, trying to regain his composure. The Jedi Master attempted to take it all in. It was unsettling, to say the least, seeing and feeling how the usually calm and serene blue-eyed Elf had shaken in fear as he spoke the name of the dreaded Dark Lord Sauron.
Suddenly and for the second time, Obi-Wan couldn't help but wish Anakin had been here. Surely, the formidable tandem of the Negotiator and the Hero With No Fear could take the Black Riders and perhaps even their fearful master himself. But the Hobbits, on the other hand…
Well, the Hobbits seemed to be anything but powerful warriors, not to mention that they probably would never reach the potential of someone like Anakin. Obi-Wan doubted any creature in the entire Universe could. These jolly-looking, chubby, innocent creatures, barely over a meter tall would find it impossible to deal with the minions of the Dark Lord.
A Jedi would never make the mistake of underestimating any sentient being on appearance alone, especially having known powerful Jedi Masters such as Yoda or Yaddle. But the Hobbits were no Yoda and these small humanoids had received no combat training; that much was clear to Obi-Wan. The thought of them being found by the dark and evil riders sent a shiver down the Jedi Master's spine.
"I sensed the Black Riders through the mental projection you sent me, Gildor." Said Obi-Wan, choosing his words carefully. "They certainly seem to be powerful, not to mention lethal. I'm afraid the Hobbits would be no match for them, especially if they were to be alone."
A dark cloud passed over Gildor's face.
"The Black Riders are not alive." Answered the Elf in an almost imperceptible whisper, as he unconsciously caressed his glass with the tips of his fingers. "They are evil, twisted spirits. Tormented souls, enslaved by the Shadow long ago."
However, Obi-Wan could sense that Gildor was hiding something from him: the real reason behind the Black Riders' relentless pursuit of the Hobbits. The Jedi Master thought somberly of what this could be since, despite the great friendship that he was forging with the Elf, Gildor had decided to leave something that seemed so important in the dark. Needless to say, the situation was extremely delicate, not to mention dangerous.
"Tell me, dear friend who came from beyond the Stars," asked Gildor finally as he fixed his sparkling blue-eyes on the dying flames of the campfire. "I believe that deep in your heart you know things happen for a reason, though we may not even begin to understand it."
"I do…" Said Obi-Wan simply. He knew it made no sense to pretend he didn't understand what was going on inside the Elf's mind. "It happens because it's the will of the Force…Or Erú if you will. You talk about destiny, because I have to follow the mandate of the Jedi Order, whether in the Galaxy or anywhere else. You will ask me to protect the Hobbits from the Black Riders, won't you?"
Gildor hesitated visibly before responding.
"I shall ask no such thing from you, my Jedâi friend." Said the Elf softly, as his gaze shifted from the fire to Obi-Wan's bearded face. "I have no authority over you, nor am I entitled to ask anything of you. The Hobbits are on their way to Rivendell, one of the mightiest Elven realms that still stand in Middle-Earth, where the Shadow could never reach them. We shall leave, as I have said earlier, at the first light of dawn, which already can be spotted on the horizon. Yet, I must tell you that should you decide to accompany the Hobbits in their journey, the gratitude of Elrond Half-elven, Lord of Rivendell, shall indeed be generous to you."
"I understand that and I thank you." Replied a sincere Obi-Wan. "However, I must point out that a Jedi doesn't offer his services in exchange of any kind of reward. If I choose to help the Hobbits, it will be because I am sworn to do it."
"Oh, please forgive me!" Cried Gildor as he lowered his head humbly. "My apologies if I have offended you, for I did not intend it. My intentions are merely to tell you that, should you decide to accompany the Hobbits in their journey…many unexpected friends and surprises await you on the road to Rivendell."
As he was saying this, Gildor motioned for one of his compatriots to approach him. The second Elf obeyed, carrying a long, beautiful leather sheathe, adorned with the incomprehensible runes that seemed to be present in every object that belonged to the fascinating humanoid race of the Elves.
"I still cannot understand the mysterious and magical way in which your lightsaber works." Murmured Gildor, while he extracted the metallic sword from its sheathe. "But, behold Gloérach…my own blade!"
Obi-Wan fixed his gaze on the shining metal blade of the Elven sword with a mixture of respect and admiration. The work that had gone into such a creation was truly astounding. The sword was in impeccable condition, showing the delicate patterns of Elven runes, engraved in brilliant gold on the edges of the silver blade.
A Jedi never gave a name to his lightsaber. For a Jedi their laser swords were much more than a simple weapon or shield; a lightsaber was an extension of the warrior himself, thus creating a symbiotic union with its owner through a Jedi's communion with the Force. For a Jedi, naming a lightsaber would be as odd as naming one of his arms or legs. However, Gildor's attitude towards his weapon made Obi-Wan understand that Elves looked upon their blades in a reverent manner not that different to the Jedi way. Gildor turned his wrist around, offering the hilt of his blade to Obi-Wan, smiling in a reassuring manner.
"Elven swords are the noblest and mightiest weapons that have ever existed upon the face of this lamenting World!" Said the Elf with great solemnity. It seemed to Obi-Wan that Gildor appeared taller, much more powerful than before. A strange gleam was reflected in the Elf's blue eyes as he went on. "Alas! Since I shall have no need for it anymore as I set out on my journey to the Undying Lands of the West, it is my intent to present Gloérach to you as a gift. May you wield it to protect those who are in need of your services, dear Jedâi friend!"
Obi-Wan smiled back at the gentle humanoid and he quickly accepted the sword. The Jedi Master then concentrated on feeling the weight, length and shape of the Elven blade through the Force, just as if he was wielding his beloved, but damaged lightsaber. He turned his gaze on Gildor, nodding in appreciation and gratitude.
"Thank you very much, my friend." Said the Jedi Master. "It feels strange to hold a metallic blade, but as you can see, this is certainly not the first time I have wielded a sword."
Gildor nodded, apparently most impressed with the brief, but expert demonstration that Obi-Wan had just put up for the Elves, showing that he was a formidable swordsman, whether using a laser or metal blade.
"I can tell just how badly the Hobbits are in need of help and protection." Continued Obi-Wan, as he was placing Gloérach's sheathe on his utility belt. "I will accompany them to Rivendell and, once we've reached the Elven realm, I will decide what I should do next. But of one thing I'm sure: the Force has brought me here and the Force will show me the way."