TITLE: PASSAGE OF FEAR
AUTHOR: Cascadia
TIME: 7 years pre-TPM, Obi-Wan is 18
RATING: PG-13
CATEGORY: Drama/Angst, Non-Slash
SUMMARY: Someone has infected Obi-Wan with a memory-loss virus. What are their plans for him now?
ARCHIVE: Please ask first.
DISCLAIMER: All recognizable characters are the property of Lucasfilm Limited. All the rest belong to me. I receive absolutely no profit from this.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Anything between * * are personal thoughts. Anything between / / are Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon talking through their bond.
~CHAPTER 6 - AWAKENING~
The balcony offered a generous view of the Coruscant skyline. Overwhelming - and beautiful to those with a taste for monstrosity - was the vast spectacle. Jedi Master Nima Dorayin enjoyed the openness afforded by a balcony near the top of the residential section of the Jedi Temple. It offered an escape from the stress often present in a Jedi's life.
Qui-Gon sat with Nima and her padawan Torani, staring out at the immense cityscape. Both masters had faced the ire of the Council on more than one occasion, but were not too timorous to do it again. Qui-Gon had known Nima since their days together as padawans, and knew her to be completely honest in her thoughts and feelings - sometimes to the point of angering the Council. But always the prudent one, she never stated anything without careful consideration of consequences.
Nima was average in stature, and no less strong. Her appearance gave way to the determination inside - strong facial features and black hair, slight graying at the roots. Nima was regarded by some as more than capable of taking on three Jedi masters - although she herself was more modest in her own assessment.
Torani, her padawan, was the same age as Obi-Wan. Her petite, slender frame betrayed a sense of delicate fragility. Youthful in her appearance, she was often mistaken for being years younger than her eighteen years. She pushed her twisted, dark ash-blonde braids behind her shoulders as a cool night wind swept across the balcony.
"Do you know who's data-terminal was used to break into the Temple's records?" Qui-Gon asked.
"I'm quite sure it is in the Prime Senate Spire... one of the lower levels. Probably a bureaucratic office," Nima answered. She peered out at the sunset - crimson bleeding across the bright sky.
"Then someone working for the Senate, most likely," Qui-Gon surmised.
"Yes, I would say that is the case," Nima faced him. "But, I'm not so sure that the Senate itself is even aware of this. Although we received a warning from the Senate, it was specifically the Senate Committee on New World Discovery and Exploration that promptly reprimanded us."
"What does that mean?" Qui-Gon wondered. "What does drug tampering have to do with exploration?"
"That's what we'd like to know," replied Torani, evenly.
"Qui-Gon," Nima continued. "I think there is something larger going on with the Senate - or at least someone in the Senate. I think Obi-Wan is just the tip of the asteroid. We need to find out specifically who is covering up what."
"But how can we?" Qui-Gon met her eyes. "The Council won't allow it."
Nima slowly smiled. "Qui-Gon, my friend, that's why we're not on the Council," she laughed. Defying the Council was nothing new to either one of them. The Force was their guide, not the Republic. And although the Jedi Council was trapped by decisions of the Republic, that would stop neither master from following the Force's lead.
Smiling, Qui-Gon leaned back in the cushioned chair, trying to relax. It was hard to with Obi-Wan missing. He reached out to touch the Force that he knew was always there. Soaking in its comforting waves, the tall Jedi master closed his eyes, focusing on his source of strength.
Qui-Gon wondered what all of this meant. If someone in the Senate was doing something illegal, then how was Obi-Wan involved? What was he needed for?
He knew that Obi-Wan was out there - across the galaxy - somewhere. And although he didn't know exactly where, he was sure that the young Jedi was alive. A master/padawan bond was considered mysterious by some. But, it was by this alone that he felt assured that his apprentice still lived.
"I have to find him," Qui-Gon said quietly, more to himself than anyone else.
"We'll do all we can to help you, Qui-Gon," Nima assured. She glanced at Torani, who was gazing at the tile floor of the balcony. "Torani and I both are willing to do all we can to find Obi-Wan. We will find him. We will."
~~~
Approaching Catarma was never a fun ride. It was surrounded by a multitude of moons, so the strength of the moons' gravitational pull greatly interfered with entering the planet's gravity well. The blue/green planet was a feast of deep, pure oceans and lush, tropical forests. And, the moon dance - as it was called - at night was in itself well worth the trouble of navigating the moon maze to reach the planet's surface. The complex patterns that the moons formed seemed to change every night, filling the sky with heavenly spheres of various sizes.
Sorru Teanyl piloted the cargo shuttle to the surface, landing on the designated pad located at the coordinates cryptically sent to him just prior to entering the system. The encryption codes were normally used by Lanovir's pilots to send information about what they were transporting - being coded so that space pirates could not intercept a delivery manifest of their cargo. This prevented most attacks by pirates - or others contemplating stealing their precious goods. But, normally those goods did not include a person - or in this case a Jedi.
Sorru powered down the engines, glancing out the front viewport at the radiant turquoise ocean breathing in the distance, just beyond the flat, ivory sands ahead. To the left he spied a wilderness of white dunes sculpted by the salty breezes. And to the right spread a large manor house, shining alabaster from the brilliant sunlight. It had an air of fantasy, without losing the very real fact that it was there - despite how ideal it appeared.
"Stay here," Sorru told his copilot, Turey, before leaving the confines of his cargo ship. Disembarking, he noticed a woman walking towards him from the manor house - her brown hair twisting sporadically with the strong coastal winds. Standing his distance, Sorru recognized the woman as none other than Nolamia Cordone. If her attractive appearance did not give her away, her purposeful stride would.
"Sorru Teanyl," she greeted warmly, extending her hand.
"Greetings, Miss Cordone," Sorru returned the same warmness, taking her hand in his and placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles.
"Well," she laughed, "you certainly are the gentleman, aren't you. Come," she turned away from the cargo ship, taking his arm. She led him up the steps to the porch of the house.
"Sit," Noli gestured toward a wicker lounge chair. "We must discuss our little... secret."
Sorru sat where she indicated, not at all sure what she had in mind - other than the Jedi. But what was there to discuss about it?
After seating herself, Noli faced her elder guest. She had met Sorru once before and never forgotten it. To her, he was most respectable and honorable - a noble spirit of faithfulness to her recently departed grandfather. She felt that his loyalty to the late Bugent Cordone would keep him in line long enough to deliver the Jedi. What she was not sure of was the man's willingness to keep his mouth shut about it afterwards.
"Mr. Teanyl," she began gently. "I know how fond you were of my grandfather. And I'm so happy that you have stayed on since his passing. It means so much to me to keep my most loyal and best pilots. And you, sir, are the best."
"Thank you," Sorru replied politely.
"My good man, wherever did you learn your manners? It's most welcome," Noli said.
"I owe it all to my mother," Sorru chuckled.
Noli laughed. "Oh, you are wonderful. Now, about our precious cargo." She suddenly turned serious. "You do know what he is, do you not?"
Sorru swallowed with difficulty. "Yes, Miss Cordone. I believe I do."
"Then... you know how important it is that no one knows?" her eyes searching his.
"Yes, but..." he paused, not sure whether to continue.
"But, what?" she prompted, leaning closer.
He looked back towards his cargo ship resting on the landing pad. "Why do you want him?"
Noli smiled slyly. "That, my dear, is not your concern. And... your life is better left not knowing. And besides, you're much too old to think about a new line of work."
"I see," he replied, understanding her meaning. "Then you won't require my services in this... secret project anymore?" Sorru met her eyes, unblinking.
Laughing, Noli took his hand in hers. "No. Your job is through here," she said, understanding his insinuation that he could be trusted by her. "But what about Turey? Can I trust him?"
"I think Turey doesn't care what we do, as long as he gets paid on time," Sorru added, smiling slightly.
"Ah, your payment." She stood and retrieved a small metallic case from behind her wicker chair. "This," she held out the case to him, "is for all your trouble. And never say grandfather's little girl was never generous," she smiled.
Taking the proffered case, Sorru hefted its weight in one hand. "Thank you, Miss Cordone," he bowed gracefully. "Tell me, where do you want... the merchandise?"
"I'll show you," Noli turned to enter the house.
~~~
Pacing outside Senator Thar Rakil's office, Qui-Gon wrapped himself in the Force, trying to set aside all worry about his padawan. He had slept much better last night, but anytime he took his eyes off of the Force, then thoughts of Obi-wan in danger threatened to distract him. Now he was utterly throwing himself to the Force.
"Master Jinn," came a smooth voice from the Senator's doorway, now cracked open.
Qui-Gon spun around, following the rotund Warisellan into the office. The thick, scaly blue creature had deep red eyes, and a short snout that could not hide the sharp incisors. "Please sit," the creature said.
Taking a wide chair beside the desk, Qui-Gon finally relaxed.
"Now, what was it you wished to speak with me about, Master Jinn?" asked the blue creature.
"Senator Rakil?" Qui-Gon inquired.
Nodding, the creature replied, "Yes, I am Rakil, Senator from Warisell." Warisell was a planet near the outer rim - known for its strip-mining. However, the planet's government had nearly extracted everything useful from its surface, leaving it a near wasteland.
"And you are the chairman of the Senate Committee on New World Discovery and Exploration?" Qui-Gon asked more as a statement. He was sure Rakil was the chairman, but just wanted to bring the committee up for discussion.
Resting his arms on the desk before him, Rakil smiled a toothy grin, "Yes, Master Jinn. I am."
"Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to talk to me, Senator. I need to ask you about a matter concerning-"
"The data-terminal that was used to breach your Temple records, no doubt," Rakil interrupted.
Sighing, Qui-Gon answered. "Yes."
"Master Jinn. I can not hand out classified information.... Even to a Jedi." Rakil stressed the word 'Jedi', as if he were sickened just to speak the word.
"Senator, I am not here on official business. The Jedi that disappeared was my apprentice, and I would like to find him... as soon as possible," Qui-Gon explained.
"The security breach is under investigation, but it is no longer your concern. Please keep your nose out of our business, Master Jinn." The senator turned his attention to the stack of data-readers on his desk. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have much work to do. All of my aides have suddenly decided to be sick at the same time. Good day, Master Jinn."
Fighting to remain calm due to the rude treatment by the senator, Qui-Gon stood and promptly walked out.
~~~
"Let me guess," Nima said, "the polite senator told you nothing."
"He told me nothing but to keep my nose out of his business," Qui-Gon added.
Nodding, Nima placed her mug on the kitchen table of her quarters. "There must be someone we can talk to who will tell us something," she said absently. "Perhaps one of the other senators on the committee. I don't believe the Chancellor or anyone else would really know what was going on. Do you, Qui-Gon?"
"Perhaps not." He sipped from his mug of djuran tea. "Nor would they be able to help. The Senate is so slow... and so big. I doubt any senator knows everything that's going on. It might be limited to this committee."
A soft chime interrupted their musings. Nima left the kitchen to answer. A moment later Mace Windu rushed through the kitchen door.
"Qui-Gon," he started, his voice upset. "I told you to leave this alone. Senator Rakil has ordered a formal reprimand of you, and I can not stand in his way. This is not the way to handle this, Qui-Gon," he cautioned.
Now standing, the tall Jedi master replied calmly, "How is the way to handle this, Mace. You told me there was nothing the Council could do. What am I supposed to do? Desert Obi-Wan? Leave him, with who knows what who knows who has planned to do with him?" He came closer to Mace, "I can't do that, Mace. There's no way I'd ever do anything like that."
Mace just stared at Qui-Gon, unable to think of an answer. He turned halfway, looking to the floor. "I don't know," he whispered. "I don't know, Qui-Gon." Meeting the taller man's eyes now, he added, "just be more discrete next time." He opened his mouth to say more, but opted to say nothing else. Shaking his head, he turned and left Nima's quarters.
~~~
The gold cushioned chair Rousella reclined in was her favorite seat on the spacious porch. From here she could watch the intense waves rolling in, or see the dozens of moons dance in the midnight sky above Catarma. She often sat alone on the porch, thinking. As the daylight slipped beyond the far horizon, and the bright blue waters turned to deep blue ebbing tides, Rousella knew her life was about to change. There was something - indistinguishable - that now was present here... that had not been here before. She pulled her short blonde hair off her neck where perspiration had collected from the humid ocean air. Breathing deeply, slowly, she decided that some things were better left not knowing. The future was not always pleasant - not for those who attempt to direct their own destiny.
"Rousella," came the becharmed voice that she had grown to know so well.
She remained facing the ocean, giving no recognition to the voice that called to her.
"Rousella, I'm talking to you, dear," said Noli, slightly firm. The elder woman sat in the wicker chair beside her.
Finally turning to face Noli, Rousella acknowledged her. "Yes, Noli, I know."
Leaning back in her seat, Noli gazed at the sky, noting the moons in a new pattern. "They're different tonight," she said, indicating the lunar positions.
"Yes," Rousella answered, only half listening. "What about..." she stopped, not sure why. "What about the Jedi, Noli?" she forced her words out.
The elder woman turned fully facing Rousella. "What about him?"
Self-conscious under the scrutiny, Rousella refused to look at Noli. "What do you... think about him?"
"What am I supposed to think, dear?" Noli was now playing, enjoying seeing young Rousella uncomfortable. The younger woman rarely gave Noli this much opportunity.
"I don't know," Rousella answered after a brief hesitation.
Noli looked back to the sky. "I have to make sure he trusts me. I think the sickness is in its last stages. But we won't use his real name. He should remember a few things... just the early things he learned - perhaps his first lessons in the Force. I'll make him believe that he is my student. And that he's had a terrible accident, and that's why he can't remember much."
"I thought you decided to tell him you were his mother," Rousella frowned.
"Things change, dear. It will be better if he thinks I'm his teacher, then he will accept my instruction better."
"And when do you think he will be ready?" Rousella asked.
"He'll be ready in time," Noli smiled. "All he has to know how to do is to enter a creature's mind and calm it. That shouldn't be too difficult to teach in such short a time. I'll wake him tomorrow."
~~~
A ray of morning sunlight crept shyly through the soft white window curtains, splaying gently across the wide bed, bringing dawn to the sleeping figure beneath the crisp cream blankets. He sighed softly, still asleep - but near waking. After a moment, his eyes fluttered open. He blinked them a few times, trying to work out the haze in his vision.
"Cailean," said an excited female voice to the side of the bed. "You're awake. I was so afraid you never would. You gave us such a scare."
Obi-Wan turned his head toward the voice, and saw a woman watching him, her eyes wide with joy. He wondered who it was. Searching his thoughts, he found mostly vague confusion. He couldn't remember how he got here, where here was, or even who he was. Frowning, he looked back to the woman sitting beside his bed.
"Cailean," she said cautiously. "Don't you recognize me?" her voice emitting worry.
Obi-Wan tried to remember her, but could not. As far as he knew, he'd never seen her before in his entire life. He shook his head slowly, watching the sorrow that came over the woman's face.
She sighed. "You had a terrible accident, and they said," she paused, holding back a sob, "they said that you may not remember anything." A single tear slid down her cheek.
"Who are you?" Obi-Wan quietly asked, confused by the whole situation.
"I'm your teacher, Cailean. You've been living here, learning from me since you were very young. I wish you could remember," she whispered.
Obi-Wan wished he could remember too. But all he could find was a mass of confused thoughts and emotions, floating about in his mind.
Just then another woman came into the room. She was younger. "Cailean's awake," she shouted triumphantly. "Noli, do you want me to set an extra place at the breakfast table?" she asked the elder woman.
"No, Cailean will eat in bed," she smiled at him. "He's probably too weak to go downstairs. He needs to get his strength back. Then we can talk."
~~~
"Rousella," Noli began, "I want you to make sure Crand finishes the landscaping. You know how lazy he is. And, another thing. Check on the placement of the planets in the Toran System. I want to make sure that we stay on schedule."
"I will, Noli. But, where are you going?" the younger woman frowned. "I thought you were going to work with the... Cailean, today?" She decided not to say 'Jedi', in case he might overhear.
"I will when we get back," Noli answered, heading towards the stairs that lead to the Jedi's room.
"We?" Rousella asked, suspiciously.
Noli stopped at the foot of the stairs, turning to Rousella. "Yes. He needs new clothes. I'm taking him to town to buy new ones," Noli informed.
"But I thought that he was going to wear the clothes left by Batome. Isn't that what you had decided?" Rousella stared at Noli, wondering why she was making all these changes. First she was going to tell the Jedi that she was his mother, then changed it to being his teacher. Now she was getting him new clothes.
"Batome's clothes are too big on him, and besides, he needs something white. I forgot about that," Noli calmly explained.
"What difference does that make? They'll be fine. They're not that big, Noli," Rousella argued.
The elder woman looked up to the top of the stairs. "I think he will feel more like he belongs if we act like he does. And he has to have something white... for the prophecy."
Rousella nodded slowly. "What if someone recognizes him?" she asked.
"I don't think anyone will," Noli explained. "This is such a sparsely populated planet. And Runa is a not a tourist town. We'll be safe," she nodded.
~~~
The tray before him was filled with a delicious assortment of fruits, breads, and tangy spreads. They were delicious, but he wasn't sure if he used to like them or not. It was like he was learning everything over again. Just as he was finishing up, Noli came into his room.
"How are you feeling, Cailean?" she asked, taking a seat to the side of his bed where he sat eating.
He glanced up at her before returning his gaze back to the tray. He felt so strange. Here he was in this house, with this woman - and neither of them he remembered, but apparently he should - if not for the accident he had. There were so many questions - so many things he wanted to ask.
At the same time, he felt afraid. Not knowing anything about himself or his life was frightening. What if there was something about himself that he would not like, that would be terrifying to find out?
"Cailean?" Noli asked, concerned at his quiet, withdrawn demeanor.
Stealing a quick glance at her, Obi-Wan replied, "I'm fine... I think."
"I know. It must feel so strange not... remembering anything," she consoled.
"Yes," Obi-Wan whispered, "it does feel strange." His stared at the tray of food. "Noli," he looked back up at her, "do you think I'll ever remember anything?" He hoped so much that he could.
Blinking her eyelids, Noli said, "I don't know, Cailean. But you can't let that stop you from living in the now." She took his hand, squeezing it. "You need to get on with your life. You're so young. You have a lifetime to live."
"What kind of... accident was I in?" Obi-Wan asked, hesitantly.
Sighing deeply, Noli said, "it was a speeder accident. There was something wrong with the engine... a leak, I think they said. That caused an explosion, and you were thrown from it. You were lucky you weren't killed."
"How long ago was that?" Obi-Wan asked, trying to piece together what happened - since he had no memory of any of it.
"It was about... a month ago," Noli said, confidently. "Cailean, would you like to go to town? We need to get you new clothes. You see, when you were in your speeder accident, you were taking a vacation. So, you had most of your clothes with you - and they were burnt up in the explosion. The only ones you have left don't fit you very well," she glanced at the clothes he had on.
Obi-Wan followed her gaze to his clothes. The sleeves were folded up so as to not be in the way. Considering what she said, he answered quietly, "sure. If you want," It made sense, so he didn't question it.
"Good," Noli stood, heading towards the door. "I'll get the speeder ready. Come down when you're ready." Seeing the young Jedi nod, she left the room - closing the door behind her.
~~~
"You said I'm your student," Obi-Wan began. "What is it that you're teaching me?"
Periodically glancing at the young Jedi seated beside her in her speeder, Noli explained as she drove, "I've been teaching you about the Force. It's a... gift - if you want to call it that - that only some people can sense. Do you remember anything about it?"
Obi-Wan searched his thoughts, trying to find any memory of it. "I... I'm not sure. Maybe," he added, still trying to remember.
"Well, you might still remember more about it than you think. You've probably forgotten more recent things, while still remembering the early things you learned... such as walking, talking, even your earliest lessons are probably there. But you'll recall them better once we resume your training."
"Can you... sense the Force, too," he asked, genuinely.
Laughing, Noli shook her head. "No. I was not blessed with that."
"Then how can you teach me?" Obi-Wan frowned, attempting to understand.
"I have learned a great deal about it. And," she turned serious, "there is a reason you are here. A calling you have to fulfill. It is my responsibility to prepare you for that." She intended to teach him very low level Force exercises, but no more than would possibly endanger her ultimate plan from working.
Considering what the woman was telling him, Obi-Wan suddenly felt overwhelmed. Was there something important that he alone was to do? He questioned if it could be true. However, he kept these thoughts to himself.
~~~
Murmuring softly in the horizon, the brilliant turquoise ocean expanse seemed to glow from beneath - as if a huge light lay at the ocean floor, illuminating the rising and falling waters overhead. The gentle rush of the sea breezes fell tenderly, lightly upon bright white sands. Warm under the baking sunrays, the grains of fine sand were a relaxing place to teach - or learn. If the ideal view did not distract a wandering mind, then the sheer comfort of warm and sensuous sand beneath would.
"You're not paying attention," Noli said, annoyed at her distracted student. Together they sat on the beach - Obi-Wan facing the sea, Noli facing him.
Obi-Wan glanced at her momentarily before turning his attention back to the billowing waves. The place was so beautiful. He couldn't seem to keep his attention on Noli's instruction.
"Did you hear me, Cailean?" the woman asked, her patience wearing thin. She watched him as he turned back to face her, his eyes bright - and very blue - the color of the crystal turquoise sea. Quickly she put that thought out of her mind. "I'm never bringing you out here again. This is the only time, Cailean." For four weeks she had been teaching him, but never with his attention divided like this. Sighing in frustration, she continued. "I want you to practice entering that trenis crab's mind again later. Alright?" she asked.
"Yes, Noli," he replied, nodding.
"Now," she continued, "if you ever hear any voices telling you things through the Force, DON'T listen to them. They are to be ignored. This is the dark side, trying to stray you from the correct path. They will tell you all manner of things. But they are not to be trusted. Do you hear me?"
"Yes, Noli." Obi-Wan glanced back to the surf. Then he stood, his eyes glued to the ocean.
"What are you doing?" Noli asked, confused.
Without answering, Obi-Wan started walking toward the edge of the water.
"Cailean," the woman shouted. Then, she too, stood.
"I don't remember ever being in the ocean," the young Jedi called back over his shoulder, stepping into the waves beating against the beach. Entering the flooding tide, Obi-Wan increased his speed, reaching a distance where huge waves pelted him, nearly sweeping his feet out from beneath him.
Noli watched in disbelief, unable to move, her mouth wide open. "No, Cailean," she shouted above the sounds of the surf. "Not with all your clothes on. You'll get them wet."
Noli's words too late spoken, Obi-Wan fell from the crash of one particularly immense wave, going completely under in its grasp. Noli wondered whether she should go after him or not. Taking a couple of tentative steps toward the ocean, she stopped when Obi-Wan's head emerged. Coughing, he stood and trudged from the moving waters, making his way back to the beach.
Laughing, he glanced down at his drenched clothes - apparently happy with himself. Noli's face only darkened. "Why did you do that," she barked, but was unable to keep a serious face with Obi-Wan's openly innocent amusement. He is so childlike, Noli thought, wondering if this was a result of his memory loss, or if he were naturally this way.
Plopping down beside her, Obi-Wan sat facing her as he had before his little rebellion started - as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. Only now, his clothes, hair, and everything were soaking wet. He flashed her a sheepish smile.
Noli could not help but smile in return. She watched the water droplets dripping from his hair, past his bright turquoise eyes, trailing down his smooth, handsome face, falling softly upon the ivory sands. He held her gaze, his smile disappearing.
Noli suddenly found herself drawn to him. Before she realized what she was doing, her lips pressed gently against his - losing herself completely in a moment of silent passion. When she came to her senses, she quickly opened her eyes, aware that she had pushed Obi-Wan back on the sand. His eyes were wide and staring into hers, layered with uncertainty - and fear.
Pushing herself off of him, Noli sat with her back to him. She silently admonished herself for letting her emotions take over. She did not even realize that she had feelings like that for Obi-Wan. It was not feelings of love, anyway. It was only the view, the fire of the moment... lust - but it was not love. The Jedi meant nothing to her. Once she was through using him, he would be thrown away. Yet it came as a shock, leaving her embarrassed. How could she have let him get to her like this? Her work was more important. She could not let anything interfere with her goal. And this Jedi was part of it. She would have to keep herself in check from now on.
Obi-Wan did not understand what was happening. Confused, he wondered if there had been something between them before his memory loss. Sitting up, his gaze fell down to the sand. He wondered if his surprised, almost repulsed, reaction to her advances was appropriate for their relationship before. He thought she was a very beautiful woman, but he just did not feel that way about her. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, trying to make right what he feared he had made wrong.
"No," Noli said. "I'M sorry. It was wrong of me, and I should not have taken you by surprise. I did not know what I was doing." She turned around towards him, his gaze fixed on the sand in front of him. "Please forgive me."
Glancing up at her, Obi-Wan nodded, "I hold nothing against you."
Seeing his sincerity, Noli said, "I am your teacher, and that is how it will stay. Alright?"
"Yes," Obi-Wan smiled.
From the thick tropical vegetation, Rousella stood, frozen in her tracks. She had started out trying to locate Noli, but upon her approach to the beachside, was startled to find Noli kissing the Jedi. The young woman considered the way Noli had changed so many plans after finally meeting Obi-Wan. It was too coincidental that Noli wanted him to think she was his teacher rather than his mother, and she wanted to buy him a new wardrobe rather than him wear the worn-out, worker's garb of Bartome. Rousella had suspected that Noli had feelings for Obi-Wan, and now she was sure. There, on the beach, was her proof.
It was partially jealousy on the younger woman's part. She thought that Obi-Wan was very attractive herself - and had even considered a try for his heart. Then, for Noli to go behind her back, pretending that nothing was going on, was all too close to betrayal. Rousella used to look up to Noli, as someone she could respect. But lately things were not falling that way. The younger woman felt increasingly left out of Noli's life - which was now filled with Obi-Wan. Rousella vowed to extract her revenge on Noli. One day - when the timing was right - she would make Noli pay.
~~~
Qui-Gon Jinn sat alone in the meditation gardens of the Jedi Temple. Seeking solace from the turmoil that was buried deep within his thoughts. The swirling Force waves wrapping around him were comforting, but never quite breached the darkened feelings that caressed his heart. It had been four weeks since Obi-Wan's disappearance, and no leads had been found. The Senate continued its own investigation of the break into the Temple's records. But, Qui-Gon assumed that it was really just being swept under the rug, rather than investigated.
No one seemed to want to help Qui-Gon find any answers - except Nima and Torani. But even with their help, nothing could be uncovered. It looked very hopeless. Qui-Gon knew the longer it took to find Obi-Wan the less chance there was of finding any clues - and the less chance of his being alive. To make matters worse, Researcher Dubelt regretfully informed the Jedi that he could find no way to stop or reverse the virus that was eating away at Obi-Wan's memory. And, it was surmised that the virus would have run its course by now - leaving Obi-Wan with mostly early memories and no hope of recovering that which was lost.
"Gone well, your meditation has not," a familiar voice sighed, interrupting his wandering thoughts. Master Yoda hobbled around to stand in front of Qui-Gon, who was kneeling in a meditative position. His large eyes betrayed sadness.
Unable to face the sadness presented by the wise old councilor, Qui-Gon looked away - his own personal despair more than enough to bear, without having to feel another's too. "No, Master. It has not gone well," Qui-Gon breathed.
"Worry too much, you do. Release your feelings to the Force, you will," the little master advised, tapping Qui-Gon's leg with the tip of his gimer stick to emphasize his point.
Qui-Gon knew Yoda was right. But it was so difficult to - as much as Obi-Wan meant to him. How could he simply let him go. Anyway, that's what it felt like - as if he no longer concerned himself with his padawan, pretending that the young Jedi was no longer in existence. No, he would not think of it like that. He could not.
"Bring news, I do. Listen, you will," Yoda brought his attention back to the present. The little master sighed, calmly waiting for Qui-Gon's undivided attention. When the tall Jedi master rested his eyes on him, he continued. "Come forward, initiate Canash Midoh has. Threatened into switching Obi-Wan's medicine, she was."
Qui-Gon could not believe what he was hearing. After four long weeks of no leads, no clues, suddenly one appeared. "What did she say?" he asked, latching onto the only hope found since his padawan was taken.
"Approached her, a man did. Kill her and her friends, told her he would, if switch the medicine, she would not. Know who the man was, she does not."
Translating the little master's information into a more understandable syntax, Qui-Gon's mind raced. Where could they go now - with this information? It was not a big lead, but it was something. Perhaps more could be learned if he talked to the girl himself. "Where is Canash now?" he asked.
"With Master Nima, she is. Answering questions, is she now. Mind the Force, you will," Yoda's voice rose in volume as Qui-Gon fled the meditation room - leaving the little master alone. "Patience, needs he still to learn," Yoda said to himself, sighing.
tbc
AUTHOR'S NOTES: How was that, ~Becky~? I combined two chapters for you, so it would be longer. I also paired the rest of them, too. The last several chapters were not as long as the first few - for some reason it just turned out that way. And I understand. A longer chapter is usually more enjoyable to read than several short ones.
And I want to thank you all so much for reading. - Cascadia
AUTHOR: Cascadia
TIME: 7 years pre-TPM, Obi-Wan is 18
RATING: PG-13
CATEGORY: Drama/Angst, Non-Slash
SUMMARY: Someone has infected Obi-Wan with a memory-loss virus. What are their plans for him now?
ARCHIVE: Please ask first.
DISCLAIMER: All recognizable characters are the property of Lucasfilm Limited. All the rest belong to me. I receive absolutely no profit from this.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Anything between * * are personal thoughts. Anything between / / are Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon talking through their bond.
~CHAPTER 6 - AWAKENING~
The balcony offered a generous view of the Coruscant skyline. Overwhelming - and beautiful to those with a taste for monstrosity - was the vast spectacle. Jedi Master Nima Dorayin enjoyed the openness afforded by a balcony near the top of the residential section of the Jedi Temple. It offered an escape from the stress often present in a Jedi's life.
Qui-Gon sat with Nima and her padawan Torani, staring out at the immense cityscape. Both masters had faced the ire of the Council on more than one occasion, but were not too timorous to do it again. Qui-Gon had known Nima since their days together as padawans, and knew her to be completely honest in her thoughts and feelings - sometimes to the point of angering the Council. But always the prudent one, she never stated anything without careful consideration of consequences.
Nima was average in stature, and no less strong. Her appearance gave way to the determination inside - strong facial features and black hair, slight graying at the roots. Nima was regarded by some as more than capable of taking on three Jedi masters - although she herself was more modest in her own assessment.
Torani, her padawan, was the same age as Obi-Wan. Her petite, slender frame betrayed a sense of delicate fragility. Youthful in her appearance, she was often mistaken for being years younger than her eighteen years. She pushed her twisted, dark ash-blonde braids behind her shoulders as a cool night wind swept across the balcony.
"Do you know who's data-terminal was used to break into the Temple's records?" Qui-Gon asked.
"I'm quite sure it is in the Prime Senate Spire... one of the lower levels. Probably a bureaucratic office," Nima answered. She peered out at the sunset - crimson bleeding across the bright sky.
"Then someone working for the Senate, most likely," Qui-Gon surmised.
"Yes, I would say that is the case," Nima faced him. "But, I'm not so sure that the Senate itself is even aware of this. Although we received a warning from the Senate, it was specifically the Senate Committee on New World Discovery and Exploration that promptly reprimanded us."
"What does that mean?" Qui-Gon wondered. "What does drug tampering have to do with exploration?"
"That's what we'd like to know," replied Torani, evenly.
"Qui-Gon," Nima continued. "I think there is something larger going on with the Senate - or at least someone in the Senate. I think Obi-Wan is just the tip of the asteroid. We need to find out specifically who is covering up what."
"But how can we?" Qui-Gon met her eyes. "The Council won't allow it."
Nima slowly smiled. "Qui-Gon, my friend, that's why we're not on the Council," she laughed. Defying the Council was nothing new to either one of them. The Force was their guide, not the Republic. And although the Jedi Council was trapped by decisions of the Republic, that would stop neither master from following the Force's lead.
Smiling, Qui-Gon leaned back in the cushioned chair, trying to relax. It was hard to with Obi-Wan missing. He reached out to touch the Force that he knew was always there. Soaking in its comforting waves, the tall Jedi master closed his eyes, focusing on his source of strength.
Qui-Gon wondered what all of this meant. If someone in the Senate was doing something illegal, then how was Obi-Wan involved? What was he needed for?
He knew that Obi-Wan was out there - across the galaxy - somewhere. And although he didn't know exactly where, he was sure that the young Jedi was alive. A master/padawan bond was considered mysterious by some. But, it was by this alone that he felt assured that his apprentice still lived.
"I have to find him," Qui-Gon said quietly, more to himself than anyone else.
"We'll do all we can to help you, Qui-Gon," Nima assured. She glanced at Torani, who was gazing at the tile floor of the balcony. "Torani and I both are willing to do all we can to find Obi-Wan. We will find him. We will."
~~~
Approaching Catarma was never a fun ride. It was surrounded by a multitude of moons, so the strength of the moons' gravitational pull greatly interfered with entering the planet's gravity well. The blue/green planet was a feast of deep, pure oceans and lush, tropical forests. And, the moon dance - as it was called - at night was in itself well worth the trouble of navigating the moon maze to reach the planet's surface. The complex patterns that the moons formed seemed to change every night, filling the sky with heavenly spheres of various sizes.
Sorru Teanyl piloted the cargo shuttle to the surface, landing on the designated pad located at the coordinates cryptically sent to him just prior to entering the system. The encryption codes were normally used by Lanovir's pilots to send information about what they were transporting - being coded so that space pirates could not intercept a delivery manifest of their cargo. This prevented most attacks by pirates - or others contemplating stealing their precious goods. But, normally those goods did not include a person - or in this case a Jedi.
Sorru powered down the engines, glancing out the front viewport at the radiant turquoise ocean breathing in the distance, just beyond the flat, ivory sands ahead. To the left he spied a wilderness of white dunes sculpted by the salty breezes. And to the right spread a large manor house, shining alabaster from the brilliant sunlight. It had an air of fantasy, without losing the very real fact that it was there - despite how ideal it appeared.
"Stay here," Sorru told his copilot, Turey, before leaving the confines of his cargo ship. Disembarking, he noticed a woman walking towards him from the manor house - her brown hair twisting sporadically with the strong coastal winds. Standing his distance, Sorru recognized the woman as none other than Nolamia Cordone. If her attractive appearance did not give her away, her purposeful stride would.
"Sorru Teanyl," she greeted warmly, extending her hand.
"Greetings, Miss Cordone," Sorru returned the same warmness, taking her hand in his and placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles.
"Well," she laughed, "you certainly are the gentleman, aren't you. Come," she turned away from the cargo ship, taking his arm. She led him up the steps to the porch of the house.
"Sit," Noli gestured toward a wicker lounge chair. "We must discuss our little... secret."
Sorru sat where she indicated, not at all sure what she had in mind - other than the Jedi. But what was there to discuss about it?
After seating herself, Noli faced her elder guest. She had met Sorru once before and never forgotten it. To her, he was most respectable and honorable - a noble spirit of faithfulness to her recently departed grandfather. She felt that his loyalty to the late Bugent Cordone would keep him in line long enough to deliver the Jedi. What she was not sure of was the man's willingness to keep his mouth shut about it afterwards.
"Mr. Teanyl," she began gently. "I know how fond you were of my grandfather. And I'm so happy that you have stayed on since his passing. It means so much to me to keep my most loyal and best pilots. And you, sir, are the best."
"Thank you," Sorru replied politely.
"My good man, wherever did you learn your manners? It's most welcome," Noli said.
"I owe it all to my mother," Sorru chuckled.
Noli laughed. "Oh, you are wonderful. Now, about our precious cargo." She suddenly turned serious. "You do know what he is, do you not?"
Sorru swallowed with difficulty. "Yes, Miss Cordone. I believe I do."
"Then... you know how important it is that no one knows?" her eyes searching his.
"Yes, but..." he paused, not sure whether to continue.
"But, what?" she prompted, leaning closer.
He looked back towards his cargo ship resting on the landing pad. "Why do you want him?"
Noli smiled slyly. "That, my dear, is not your concern. And... your life is better left not knowing. And besides, you're much too old to think about a new line of work."
"I see," he replied, understanding her meaning. "Then you won't require my services in this... secret project anymore?" Sorru met her eyes, unblinking.
Laughing, Noli took his hand in hers. "No. Your job is through here," she said, understanding his insinuation that he could be trusted by her. "But what about Turey? Can I trust him?"
"I think Turey doesn't care what we do, as long as he gets paid on time," Sorru added, smiling slightly.
"Ah, your payment." She stood and retrieved a small metallic case from behind her wicker chair. "This," she held out the case to him, "is for all your trouble. And never say grandfather's little girl was never generous," she smiled.
Taking the proffered case, Sorru hefted its weight in one hand. "Thank you, Miss Cordone," he bowed gracefully. "Tell me, where do you want... the merchandise?"
"I'll show you," Noli turned to enter the house.
~~~
Pacing outside Senator Thar Rakil's office, Qui-Gon wrapped himself in the Force, trying to set aside all worry about his padawan. He had slept much better last night, but anytime he took his eyes off of the Force, then thoughts of Obi-wan in danger threatened to distract him. Now he was utterly throwing himself to the Force.
"Master Jinn," came a smooth voice from the Senator's doorway, now cracked open.
Qui-Gon spun around, following the rotund Warisellan into the office. The thick, scaly blue creature had deep red eyes, and a short snout that could not hide the sharp incisors. "Please sit," the creature said.
Taking a wide chair beside the desk, Qui-Gon finally relaxed.
"Now, what was it you wished to speak with me about, Master Jinn?" asked the blue creature.
"Senator Rakil?" Qui-Gon inquired.
Nodding, the creature replied, "Yes, I am Rakil, Senator from Warisell." Warisell was a planet near the outer rim - known for its strip-mining. However, the planet's government had nearly extracted everything useful from its surface, leaving it a near wasteland.
"And you are the chairman of the Senate Committee on New World Discovery and Exploration?" Qui-Gon asked more as a statement. He was sure Rakil was the chairman, but just wanted to bring the committee up for discussion.
Resting his arms on the desk before him, Rakil smiled a toothy grin, "Yes, Master Jinn. I am."
"Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to talk to me, Senator. I need to ask you about a matter concerning-"
"The data-terminal that was used to breach your Temple records, no doubt," Rakil interrupted.
Sighing, Qui-Gon answered. "Yes."
"Master Jinn. I can not hand out classified information.... Even to a Jedi." Rakil stressed the word 'Jedi', as if he were sickened just to speak the word.
"Senator, I am not here on official business. The Jedi that disappeared was my apprentice, and I would like to find him... as soon as possible," Qui-Gon explained.
"The security breach is under investigation, but it is no longer your concern. Please keep your nose out of our business, Master Jinn." The senator turned his attention to the stack of data-readers on his desk. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have much work to do. All of my aides have suddenly decided to be sick at the same time. Good day, Master Jinn."
Fighting to remain calm due to the rude treatment by the senator, Qui-Gon stood and promptly walked out.
~~~
"Let me guess," Nima said, "the polite senator told you nothing."
"He told me nothing but to keep my nose out of his business," Qui-Gon added.
Nodding, Nima placed her mug on the kitchen table of her quarters. "There must be someone we can talk to who will tell us something," she said absently. "Perhaps one of the other senators on the committee. I don't believe the Chancellor or anyone else would really know what was going on. Do you, Qui-Gon?"
"Perhaps not." He sipped from his mug of djuran tea. "Nor would they be able to help. The Senate is so slow... and so big. I doubt any senator knows everything that's going on. It might be limited to this committee."
A soft chime interrupted their musings. Nima left the kitchen to answer. A moment later Mace Windu rushed through the kitchen door.
"Qui-Gon," he started, his voice upset. "I told you to leave this alone. Senator Rakil has ordered a formal reprimand of you, and I can not stand in his way. This is not the way to handle this, Qui-Gon," he cautioned.
Now standing, the tall Jedi master replied calmly, "How is the way to handle this, Mace. You told me there was nothing the Council could do. What am I supposed to do? Desert Obi-Wan? Leave him, with who knows what who knows who has planned to do with him?" He came closer to Mace, "I can't do that, Mace. There's no way I'd ever do anything like that."
Mace just stared at Qui-Gon, unable to think of an answer. He turned halfway, looking to the floor. "I don't know," he whispered. "I don't know, Qui-Gon." Meeting the taller man's eyes now, he added, "just be more discrete next time." He opened his mouth to say more, but opted to say nothing else. Shaking his head, he turned and left Nima's quarters.
~~~
The gold cushioned chair Rousella reclined in was her favorite seat on the spacious porch. From here she could watch the intense waves rolling in, or see the dozens of moons dance in the midnight sky above Catarma. She often sat alone on the porch, thinking. As the daylight slipped beyond the far horizon, and the bright blue waters turned to deep blue ebbing tides, Rousella knew her life was about to change. There was something - indistinguishable - that now was present here... that had not been here before. She pulled her short blonde hair off her neck where perspiration had collected from the humid ocean air. Breathing deeply, slowly, she decided that some things were better left not knowing. The future was not always pleasant - not for those who attempt to direct their own destiny.
"Rousella," came the becharmed voice that she had grown to know so well.
She remained facing the ocean, giving no recognition to the voice that called to her.
"Rousella, I'm talking to you, dear," said Noli, slightly firm. The elder woman sat in the wicker chair beside her.
Finally turning to face Noli, Rousella acknowledged her. "Yes, Noli, I know."
Leaning back in her seat, Noli gazed at the sky, noting the moons in a new pattern. "They're different tonight," she said, indicating the lunar positions.
"Yes," Rousella answered, only half listening. "What about..." she stopped, not sure why. "What about the Jedi, Noli?" she forced her words out.
The elder woman turned fully facing Rousella. "What about him?"
Self-conscious under the scrutiny, Rousella refused to look at Noli. "What do you... think about him?"
"What am I supposed to think, dear?" Noli was now playing, enjoying seeing young Rousella uncomfortable. The younger woman rarely gave Noli this much opportunity.
"I don't know," Rousella answered after a brief hesitation.
Noli looked back to the sky. "I have to make sure he trusts me. I think the sickness is in its last stages. But we won't use his real name. He should remember a few things... just the early things he learned - perhaps his first lessons in the Force. I'll make him believe that he is my student. And that he's had a terrible accident, and that's why he can't remember much."
"I thought you decided to tell him you were his mother," Rousella frowned.
"Things change, dear. It will be better if he thinks I'm his teacher, then he will accept my instruction better."
"And when do you think he will be ready?" Rousella asked.
"He'll be ready in time," Noli smiled. "All he has to know how to do is to enter a creature's mind and calm it. That shouldn't be too difficult to teach in such short a time. I'll wake him tomorrow."
~~~
A ray of morning sunlight crept shyly through the soft white window curtains, splaying gently across the wide bed, bringing dawn to the sleeping figure beneath the crisp cream blankets. He sighed softly, still asleep - but near waking. After a moment, his eyes fluttered open. He blinked them a few times, trying to work out the haze in his vision.
"Cailean," said an excited female voice to the side of the bed. "You're awake. I was so afraid you never would. You gave us such a scare."
Obi-Wan turned his head toward the voice, and saw a woman watching him, her eyes wide with joy. He wondered who it was. Searching his thoughts, he found mostly vague confusion. He couldn't remember how he got here, where here was, or even who he was. Frowning, he looked back to the woman sitting beside his bed.
"Cailean," she said cautiously. "Don't you recognize me?" her voice emitting worry.
Obi-Wan tried to remember her, but could not. As far as he knew, he'd never seen her before in his entire life. He shook his head slowly, watching the sorrow that came over the woman's face.
She sighed. "You had a terrible accident, and they said," she paused, holding back a sob, "they said that you may not remember anything." A single tear slid down her cheek.
"Who are you?" Obi-Wan quietly asked, confused by the whole situation.
"I'm your teacher, Cailean. You've been living here, learning from me since you were very young. I wish you could remember," she whispered.
Obi-Wan wished he could remember too. But all he could find was a mass of confused thoughts and emotions, floating about in his mind.
Just then another woman came into the room. She was younger. "Cailean's awake," she shouted triumphantly. "Noli, do you want me to set an extra place at the breakfast table?" she asked the elder woman.
"No, Cailean will eat in bed," she smiled at him. "He's probably too weak to go downstairs. He needs to get his strength back. Then we can talk."
~~~
"Rousella," Noli began, "I want you to make sure Crand finishes the landscaping. You know how lazy he is. And, another thing. Check on the placement of the planets in the Toran System. I want to make sure that we stay on schedule."
"I will, Noli. But, where are you going?" the younger woman frowned. "I thought you were going to work with the... Cailean, today?" She decided not to say 'Jedi', in case he might overhear.
"I will when we get back," Noli answered, heading towards the stairs that lead to the Jedi's room.
"We?" Rousella asked, suspiciously.
Noli stopped at the foot of the stairs, turning to Rousella. "Yes. He needs new clothes. I'm taking him to town to buy new ones," Noli informed.
"But I thought that he was going to wear the clothes left by Batome. Isn't that what you had decided?" Rousella stared at Noli, wondering why she was making all these changes. First she was going to tell the Jedi that she was his mother, then changed it to being his teacher. Now she was getting him new clothes.
"Batome's clothes are too big on him, and besides, he needs something white. I forgot about that," Noli calmly explained.
"What difference does that make? They'll be fine. They're not that big, Noli," Rousella argued.
The elder woman looked up to the top of the stairs. "I think he will feel more like he belongs if we act like he does. And he has to have something white... for the prophecy."
Rousella nodded slowly. "What if someone recognizes him?" she asked.
"I don't think anyone will," Noli explained. "This is such a sparsely populated planet. And Runa is a not a tourist town. We'll be safe," she nodded.
~~~
The tray before him was filled with a delicious assortment of fruits, breads, and tangy spreads. They were delicious, but he wasn't sure if he used to like them or not. It was like he was learning everything over again. Just as he was finishing up, Noli came into his room.
"How are you feeling, Cailean?" she asked, taking a seat to the side of his bed where he sat eating.
He glanced up at her before returning his gaze back to the tray. He felt so strange. Here he was in this house, with this woman - and neither of them he remembered, but apparently he should - if not for the accident he had. There were so many questions - so many things he wanted to ask.
At the same time, he felt afraid. Not knowing anything about himself or his life was frightening. What if there was something about himself that he would not like, that would be terrifying to find out?
"Cailean?" Noli asked, concerned at his quiet, withdrawn demeanor.
Stealing a quick glance at her, Obi-Wan replied, "I'm fine... I think."
"I know. It must feel so strange not... remembering anything," she consoled.
"Yes," Obi-Wan whispered, "it does feel strange." His stared at the tray of food. "Noli," he looked back up at her, "do you think I'll ever remember anything?" He hoped so much that he could.
Blinking her eyelids, Noli said, "I don't know, Cailean. But you can't let that stop you from living in the now." She took his hand, squeezing it. "You need to get on with your life. You're so young. You have a lifetime to live."
"What kind of... accident was I in?" Obi-Wan asked, hesitantly.
Sighing deeply, Noli said, "it was a speeder accident. There was something wrong with the engine... a leak, I think they said. That caused an explosion, and you were thrown from it. You were lucky you weren't killed."
"How long ago was that?" Obi-Wan asked, trying to piece together what happened - since he had no memory of any of it.
"It was about... a month ago," Noli said, confidently. "Cailean, would you like to go to town? We need to get you new clothes. You see, when you were in your speeder accident, you were taking a vacation. So, you had most of your clothes with you - and they were burnt up in the explosion. The only ones you have left don't fit you very well," she glanced at the clothes he had on.
Obi-Wan followed her gaze to his clothes. The sleeves were folded up so as to not be in the way. Considering what she said, he answered quietly, "sure. If you want," It made sense, so he didn't question it.
"Good," Noli stood, heading towards the door. "I'll get the speeder ready. Come down when you're ready." Seeing the young Jedi nod, she left the room - closing the door behind her.
~~~
"You said I'm your student," Obi-Wan began. "What is it that you're teaching me?"
Periodically glancing at the young Jedi seated beside her in her speeder, Noli explained as she drove, "I've been teaching you about the Force. It's a... gift - if you want to call it that - that only some people can sense. Do you remember anything about it?"
Obi-Wan searched his thoughts, trying to find any memory of it. "I... I'm not sure. Maybe," he added, still trying to remember.
"Well, you might still remember more about it than you think. You've probably forgotten more recent things, while still remembering the early things you learned... such as walking, talking, even your earliest lessons are probably there. But you'll recall them better once we resume your training."
"Can you... sense the Force, too," he asked, genuinely.
Laughing, Noli shook her head. "No. I was not blessed with that."
"Then how can you teach me?" Obi-Wan frowned, attempting to understand.
"I have learned a great deal about it. And," she turned serious, "there is a reason you are here. A calling you have to fulfill. It is my responsibility to prepare you for that." She intended to teach him very low level Force exercises, but no more than would possibly endanger her ultimate plan from working.
Considering what the woman was telling him, Obi-Wan suddenly felt overwhelmed. Was there something important that he alone was to do? He questioned if it could be true. However, he kept these thoughts to himself.
~~~
Murmuring softly in the horizon, the brilliant turquoise ocean expanse seemed to glow from beneath - as if a huge light lay at the ocean floor, illuminating the rising and falling waters overhead. The gentle rush of the sea breezes fell tenderly, lightly upon bright white sands. Warm under the baking sunrays, the grains of fine sand were a relaxing place to teach - or learn. If the ideal view did not distract a wandering mind, then the sheer comfort of warm and sensuous sand beneath would.
"You're not paying attention," Noli said, annoyed at her distracted student. Together they sat on the beach - Obi-Wan facing the sea, Noli facing him.
Obi-Wan glanced at her momentarily before turning his attention back to the billowing waves. The place was so beautiful. He couldn't seem to keep his attention on Noli's instruction.
"Did you hear me, Cailean?" the woman asked, her patience wearing thin. She watched him as he turned back to face her, his eyes bright - and very blue - the color of the crystal turquoise sea. Quickly she put that thought out of her mind. "I'm never bringing you out here again. This is the only time, Cailean." For four weeks she had been teaching him, but never with his attention divided like this. Sighing in frustration, she continued. "I want you to practice entering that trenis crab's mind again later. Alright?" she asked.
"Yes, Noli," he replied, nodding.
"Now," she continued, "if you ever hear any voices telling you things through the Force, DON'T listen to them. They are to be ignored. This is the dark side, trying to stray you from the correct path. They will tell you all manner of things. But they are not to be trusted. Do you hear me?"
"Yes, Noli." Obi-Wan glanced back to the surf. Then he stood, his eyes glued to the ocean.
"What are you doing?" Noli asked, confused.
Without answering, Obi-Wan started walking toward the edge of the water.
"Cailean," the woman shouted. Then, she too, stood.
"I don't remember ever being in the ocean," the young Jedi called back over his shoulder, stepping into the waves beating against the beach. Entering the flooding tide, Obi-Wan increased his speed, reaching a distance where huge waves pelted him, nearly sweeping his feet out from beneath him.
Noli watched in disbelief, unable to move, her mouth wide open. "No, Cailean," she shouted above the sounds of the surf. "Not with all your clothes on. You'll get them wet."
Noli's words too late spoken, Obi-Wan fell from the crash of one particularly immense wave, going completely under in its grasp. Noli wondered whether she should go after him or not. Taking a couple of tentative steps toward the ocean, she stopped when Obi-Wan's head emerged. Coughing, he stood and trudged from the moving waters, making his way back to the beach.
Laughing, he glanced down at his drenched clothes - apparently happy with himself. Noli's face only darkened. "Why did you do that," she barked, but was unable to keep a serious face with Obi-Wan's openly innocent amusement. He is so childlike, Noli thought, wondering if this was a result of his memory loss, or if he were naturally this way.
Plopping down beside her, Obi-Wan sat facing her as he had before his little rebellion started - as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. Only now, his clothes, hair, and everything were soaking wet. He flashed her a sheepish smile.
Noli could not help but smile in return. She watched the water droplets dripping from his hair, past his bright turquoise eyes, trailing down his smooth, handsome face, falling softly upon the ivory sands. He held her gaze, his smile disappearing.
Noli suddenly found herself drawn to him. Before she realized what she was doing, her lips pressed gently against his - losing herself completely in a moment of silent passion. When she came to her senses, she quickly opened her eyes, aware that she had pushed Obi-Wan back on the sand. His eyes were wide and staring into hers, layered with uncertainty - and fear.
Pushing herself off of him, Noli sat with her back to him. She silently admonished herself for letting her emotions take over. She did not even realize that she had feelings like that for Obi-Wan. It was not feelings of love, anyway. It was only the view, the fire of the moment... lust - but it was not love. The Jedi meant nothing to her. Once she was through using him, he would be thrown away. Yet it came as a shock, leaving her embarrassed. How could she have let him get to her like this? Her work was more important. She could not let anything interfere with her goal. And this Jedi was part of it. She would have to keep herself in check from now on.
Obi-Wan did not understand what was happening. Confused, he wondered if there had been something between them before his memory loss. Sitting up, his gaze fell down to the sand. He wondered if his surprised, almost repulsed, reaction to her advances was appropriate for their relationship before. He thought she was a very beautiful woman, but he just did not feel that way about her. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, trying to make right what he feared he had made wrong.
"No," Noli said. "I'M sorry. It was wrong of me, and I should not have taken you by surprise. I did not know what I was doing." She turned around towards him, his gaze fixed on the sand in front of him. "Please forgive me."
Glancing up at her, Obi-Wan nodded, "I hold nothing against you."
Seeing his sincerity, Noli said, "I am your teacher, and that is how it will stay. Alright?"
"Yes," Obi-Wan smiled.
From the thick tropical vegetation, Rousella stood, frozen in her tracks. She had started out trying to locate Noli, but upon her approach to the beachside, was startled to find Noli kissing the Jedi. The young woman considered the way Noli had changed so many plans after finally meeting Obi-Wan. It was too coincidental that Noli wanted him to think she was his teacher rather than his mother, and she wanted to buy him a new wardrobe rather than him wear the worn-out, worker's garb of Bartome. Rousella had suspected that Noli had feelings for Obi-Wan, and now she was sure. There, on the beach, was her proof.
It was partially jealousy on the younger woman's part. She thought that Obi-Wan was very attractive herself - and had even considered a try for his heart. Then, for Noli to go behind her back, pretending that nothing was going on, was all too close to betrayal. Rousella used to look up to Noli, as someone she could respect. But lately things were not falling that way. The younger woman felt increasingly left out of Noli's life - which was now filled with Obi-Wan. Rousella vowed to extract her revenge on Noli. One day - when the timing was right - she would make Noli pay.
~~~
Qui-Gon Jinn sat alone in the meditation gardens of the Jedi Temple. Seeking solace from the turmoil that was buried deep within his thoughts. The swirling Force waves wrapping around him were comforting, but never quite breached the darkened feelings that caressed his heart. It had been four weeks since Obi-Wan's disappearance, and no leads had been found. The Senate continued its own investigation of the break into the Temple's records. But, Qui-Gon assumed that it was really just being swept under the rug, rather than investigated.
No one seemed to want to help Qui-Gon find any answers - except Nima and Torani. But even with their help, nothing could be uncovered. It looked very hopeless. Qui-Gon knew the longer it took to find Obi-Wan the less chance there was of finding any clues - and the less chance of his being alive. To make matters worse, Researcher Dubelt regretfully informed the Jedi that he could find no way to stop or reverse the virus that was eating away at Obi-Wan's memory. And, it was surmised that the virus would have run its course by now - leaving Obi-Wan with mostly early memories and no hope of recovering that which was lost.
"Gone well, your meditation has not," a familiar voice sighed, interrupting his wandering thoughts. Master Yoda hobbled around to stand in front of Qui-Gon, who was kneeling in a meditative position. His large eyes betrayed sadness.
Unable to face the sadness presented by the wise old councilor, Qui-Gon looked away - his own personal despair more than enough to bear, without having to feel another's too. "No, Master. It has not gone well," Qui-Gon breathed.
"Worry too much, you do. Release your feelings to the Force, you will," the little master advised, tapping Qui-Gon's leg with the tip of his gimer stick to emphasize his point.
Qui-Gon knew Yoda was right. But it was so difficult to - as much as Obi-Wan meant to him. How could he simply let him go. Anyway, that's what it felt like - as if he no longer concerned himself with his padawan, pretending that the young Jedi was no longer in existence. No, he would not think of it like that. He could not.
"Bring news, I do. Listen, you will," Yoda brought his attention back to the present. The little master sighed, calmly waiting for Qui-Gon's undivided attention. When the tall Jedi master rested his eyes on him, he continued. "Come forward, initiate Canash Midoh has. Threatened into switching Obi-Wan's medicine, she was."
Qui-Gon could not believe what he was hearing. After four long weeks of no leads, no clues, suddenly one appeared. "What did she say?" he asked, latching onto the only hope found since his padawan was taken.
"Approached her, a man did. Kill her and her friends, told her he would, if switch the medicine, she would not. Know who the man was, she does not."
Translating the little master's information into a more understandable syntax, Qui-Gon's mind raced. Where could they go now - with this information? It was not a big lead, but it was something. Perhaps more could be learned if he talked to the girl himself. "Where is Canash now?" he asked.
"With Master Nima, she is. Answering questions, is she now. Mind the Force, you will," Yoda's voice rose in volume as Qui-Gon fled the meditation room - leaving the little master alone. "Patience, needs he still to learn," Yoda said to himself, sighing.
tbc
AUTHOR'S NOTES: How was that, ~Becky~? I combined two chapters for you, so it would be longer. I also paired the rest of them, too. The last several chapters were not as long as the first few - for some reason it just turned out that way. And I understand. A longer chapter is usually more enjoyable to read than several short ones.
And I want to thank you all so much for reading. - Cascadia