Kyle Katarn: The Rise & Fall
Book 2: Birth of a Jedi
Chapter 11: To Learn The Force
A/N: Hi there, everyone! Shanesnest here with the latest chapter of Kyle Katarn: The Rise and Fall, Book 2: Birth of a Jedi. Well the Sulon mission concluded more or less successfully, although Kyle managed to get one heck of a nasty wound. But now, safe aboard the Moldy Crow (or is he? Kidding!), things should a better turn for our hero. But before we move on, let's get to the shout outs.
Nerwen Aldarion: I'm not! Seriously, I'm not! I just want to make sure it comes at the right moment. That's a good analog about roaches and Tuskens, except once you kill a Tusken, it doesn't get back up. My idea behind the vision Jerec showed Kyle was to convince ol' KK that he could all the power PLUS Jan. But you're right in that she would NEVER go for it. So you figured out it was Wexter, eh? Oh well, I'll have to try harder next time. I've already got a scene in mind for when Jan finds out about the Crow. I'll have Kyle tell her, in time.
Tinuviel Undomiel: As I've gotten comments from some who prefer and others who prefer character driven, I try to mix in a little of both without getting mired in either. Well, Kyle knows about Jan's temper, doesn't he? He knows how she's going to react when she sees the Crow. That is, unless Wexter fixes it really quick. You've got it exactly about the Force vision; Jerec is luring Kyle with the promise of power PLUS Jan, even though she'd never go for it for real. I'm truly torn on when he should tell her. Should it be now? Should it be later? How to tell her? And so on and so on. I think I'll know when the moment is right, although your sister wants it ASAP. Well, I don't wanna spill the whole beanbag here, but I am writing something along the lines of what you're for when the Crow goes down.
Manus Dei: You know, you're right. It is kinda like Nar Shaddaa. The part I hated the most in the game is all those wonderfully high places to fall from! I definitely am considering having him learn Force Heal or something like it early on.
Mach Farcon: Thanks! This chap felt a lot better than the last one. I got it on the p.s., thanks for telling me.
A/N: Well, all righty then! So without further ado or nonsensical words from yours truly, please enjoy this latest chapter. Looking forward to your reviews!
Unknown Space (convenient, eh?)
The Vengeance
The flagship of the Dark Jedi Jerec cruised through space with seeming impunity. Once an unfinished Super Star Destroyer, the vessel had been "appropriated" shortly after the battle between the Empire and the Rebellion at Endor. Modified to Jerec's personal specifications, the Vengeance was unlike any Star Destroyer. Its dagger-like hull had been tapered so that it sloped downward from the ship's keel. Ungainly-looking wings jutted out from the rear of the ship near its massive array of engines.
But what was most striking of all was the ship's color. All Star Destroyers employed in the Empire's Space Navy were white to off white in color whereas the Vengeance was a dark gray bordering on black. Aside from the cluster of engines stabbing light into the void of space, the ship might as well have been cloaked in darkness. The interior was nearly as dark, the muted lighting a concession to the human officers and crew who operated the ship. But for those Dark Knights who served under the former Imperial Inquisitor, the dimly lit corridors were of little concern or challenge.
At this moment, one of them, perhaps the one closest to Jerec was moving through one of the darkened corridors at a fast walk. Her original name had been lost years ago and now she was known only as Sariss, a former Imperial agent who had become one of Jerec's many followers. Slowing to a normal pace, she stopped before one door in particular and began to raise her hand to touch the call chime. But then, remembering the last time she had done this and the reaction, she instead closed her eyes and concentrated.
Lord Jerec, it is Sariss. Are you all right?
She waited nearly a minute and when there was no response, she repeated the mental call. This time, there was a reply as the door before her slid open. Sariss stood there, not taking a step forward.
"Come in Sariss,"
It was the voice of her master, inviting her in. She complied, trying but unable to contain a flash of fear. Jerec's voice had sounded tired and weak. She wondered what had happened to him.
"Do not worry, my apprentice," Jerec replied, having read her thoughts, "I am weakened for the moment, but my strength shall return. And there is something we must discuss.
Sariss moved into the room, the black cloak she wore waving slightly with each step. She found Jerec sitting in the middle of the floor, legs crossed under him, hands resting on his thighs. His breath came in short harsh gasps.
"Master," she said, approaching him, "a short while ago, I felt a strong disturbance in the Force and I sensed you were in pain."
A smile came to Jerec's face as he listened.
"You are doing well to sense all this, my apprentice. But you still have much to learn. For if you were truly growing in the Dark Side, you would know what I know now."
Sariss lowered her head a little, accepting the rebuke.
"I feared to, Master," she said, "for if you sensed me trying to read your thoughts, I believed you would become angry and punish me for intruding."
Jerec nodded, understanding.
"Your caution is wise, Sariss. But as a Dark Jedi, you must learn never to let fear keep you from acting. Rather, use your fear and let it give you power. But for now, peer into my mind, and see what it is I wish to show you."
She hesitated for a moment, fearing this might be a trick or perhaps a test.
"Now is the time, Sariss, while I am weak. Do not hesitate."
Nodding, the Dark Jedi took a seat next to her master, positioning herself in the same way as he. She pulled back the hood of the cloak she wore, exposing her face. What would have been a perfectly oval face was spoiled somewhat by the harsh lines of the cheekbones and chin. The mouth was small, the lips glowing with the faintest shade of red. Like her master, Sariss wore an outfit of the deepest black with a pull-down flap across the chest colored in a deep crimson. Form fitting, the top half left the shoulders and arms exposed, displaying long, lean muscles. Trousers, somewhat loose fitting to allow maximum freedom of movement, lead down to high black boots that reached to just below her knees. Black gauntlets covered part of her forearms and wrists, leading up to black straps that ran across the sides of her hands and around each finger, just below the knuckle.
Muted green eyes were visible beneath a crop of short blond hair cut close to the scalp. Those same eyes now closed as Sariss concentrated, seeking to probe her Master's mind. She felt resistance at first, but with a bit of power added to her mind probe, the wall before her fell and now imagery began to flow into her mind, a scene displayed before of the encounter between Jerec and Kyle Katarn. She watched as words were exchanged and then, with the flash of lightsaber blades, a battle began. To her surprise, Katarn put up an adequate enough defense to keep Jerec from landing a single blow. She wondered how this was possible, given Jerec's demonstrated proficiency with the weapon. But as her mind delved deeper into the scene, she sensed a third presence, and a moment later, realized that it was the Jedi Rahn, and he was helping Katarn, guiding his steps, his attacks and his defenses.
The Jedi from before, she thought, remembering an old tale of how fallen Jedi could, for a time, still remain in this plane of existence before moving on to the great beyond.
And somehow, Rahn has done this.
Precisely, Jerec replied.
But then, as the scene went on, Sariss began to sense more. It had seemed clear to her that the old Jedi was helping Katarn with handling the lightsaber, but now she was sensing something new, something more. And then she saw it.
The scene grew wavy as Jerec, unable to finish Katarn, realized he could not continue the fight and maintain the dream world. It faded away as the Dark Jedi's essence had returned to the ship.
Master! That human, I sensed… he feels the Force. And his power…
Yes, Sariss, Jerec answered, Katarn is special. He has a deep connection to the Force. If he can be turned, he may very well be the most powerful Dark Jedi ever.
But he refused you, Master.
True, Sariss. But like yourself and the others were; Katarn is blind to his great destiny and what he can become. This is why our new mission will be to find him and …educate him.
Sariss smiled at this.
Master, I wish to see more. If I may…
It was as if the wall she had broken through slammed down with unstoppable force, cutting her off from Jerec's mind as an invisible hand pushed her away with great force. She flew away from him, fetching up against a wall.
The pain was immediate and intense, the blow strong enough to stun her whole body and render Sariss incapable of mounting a defense or executing an attack. She lay there as Jerec rose to his feet and approached her, stopping inches away. He glared down at her.
"Your powers are growing, Sariss. This pleases me. But do not forget your place. As you are now, you are no match for me. Do not attempt to test yourself against me again or the consequences shall be… unfortunate."
Despite the pain she felt, Sariss managed to look up at the Dark Jedi, and then bowed her head.
"I understand, Master."
In an instant, the Dark Jedi's attitude seemed to change. He smiled at her.
"Good, now come. There is much to do. I have a plan to bring Katarn to us. And then we may begin his training and bring him over to the Dark Side."
The Planet Sulon
Spaceport
Soon after the Moldy Crow's skids had come to rest on the well worn surface of the spaceport landing bay, Kyle was treated to a display of comedic proportions. First, Hoxel Nuvton had come boiling out of the main building, all but tearing the doors off as he exited, Wee Gee hot on his heels. Grabbing for the handholds built into the side of the ship, the man pulled him up to the level of the cockpit, his face appearing just as Wexter pressed the control to raise the canopy.
"Where have you been, boy? You tell me you're just going out to your old man's farm and the next thing I know; the speeder I lent you comes rushing back with this crazy droid at the controls practically screaming at me to get you some help."
"Hoxel…"
"Don't interrupt me, boy," the man said, "And then, while I'm sittin' here, worryin' and frettin' over what might have happened to you, this guy shows up, asking all kindsa questions instead of heading out to find you!"
"Now wait just a second," Wexter said, incredulous, "you're the one who pulled a blaster on me, remember?"
"I didn't know who you were," Hoxel answered defensively, "you show up here in this rattletrap of a ship and…"
"Rattletrap!" Wexter exclaimed, "Let me you tell you something. This ship is a classic, one I've personally worked to…"
"Son," Hoxel said, "I know what kind of ship it is. And its' obvious you haven't been taking very good care of it. Look at this hull!"
He pointed to one of the rusted-looking plates.
"Hey!" Wexter said angrily, "I'm nearly as old as you, friend! And it's because of my work that this ship hasn't fallen apart!"
"Really," Hoxel said, "because in my day…"
As the two men continued to argue, Wee Gee floated up to the other side of the cockpit, its photoreceptor focusing on Kyle's face. The droid emitted a string of beeps and whistles.
"I'm okay, Weeg, really."
The droid gave a disbelieving blatting sound, and then added, "Then how exactly do you explain the bandage on your leg?"
Giving the droid a fake smile, Kyle responded.
"It isn't that bad, Weeg. I've had worse."
The droid's response clearly indicated that it did not believe him and doubted he could even walk.
Umbrage rose inside Kyle.
"Is that right?" he said, fixing a glare at the droid, "Well, we'll just see about that."
Bracing with his arms and pushing with his right leg, Kyle began to lift himself out of the cockpit couch. He was almost out when his left leg hit the lower part of the instrument panel. In the space of a second, it felt as if the pain started in the bottom of his feet, then shot up through his spine before exiting through the top of his head with the force of a volcano.
With a barely subdued scream, Kyle dropped back into the seat. Turning to see the two older men still arguing, Wee Gee let off with a loud string of strident and angry beeps and whistles. Cut off in mid-sentence by the droid, the two men looked to the front cockpit where Kyle was trying, but failing, to not express the pain he was feeling.
The men looked at each other.
"Maybe we should save this for later," Wexter offered.
Looking as if he were slightly impressed, Hoxel nodded and slid down to where Kyle was.
"What in heaven did you do to yourself, boy?" he exclaimed before his eyes caught sight of the bandage around Kyle's leg.
"This is why I didn't want you going off by yourself, boy! Those blasted Tuskens! We shoulda killed the lot of them years ago! But no, you had to go off to that house! And now look what's happened! You Katarns, you and your father! Too blasted stubborn! I've said that all along!"
Kyle sat there, doing his best to deal with the pain as Hoxel went on. And where someone else would have felt rebuked or ashamed, Kyle realized the old man's angry words had a different intent.
Finding his voice, he managed to say, "Both of us… huh? I'll… take that… as a compliment."
"Why you…" Hoxel sputtered, "I can't believe how disrespectful you are! If you weren't hurt…"
Just then, the sound of electricity sparking inside the cockpit was heard. Looking to the other side, Kyle, Wexter and Hoxel all saw where one of Wee Gee's manipulator arms was held up menacingly, a welding torch visible, giving off another spark as it touched the hull of the ship. The droid emitted two whistles and a beep.
"What'd he say?" asked Wexter.
Kyle smiled. "He said he's heard enough out of both of you and that if something isn't done to fix my wound, he's going to do something extremely painful with that torch."
For a moment, it seemed as if Hoxel was going to argue, but then Wee Gee punctuated his statement by directing the flame of the welding torch directly onto the ship's hull, where it gave off an even brighter spark than before.
"Wait here," the man said, stepping down from the cockpit and running inside. He returned a few minutes later, carrying a syringe. He stepped back up to where Kyle was.
"Here, this will work."
"What is it?" Wexter and Kyle said at the same time.
"I got it from the emergency kit I keep here. It's a sedative. It'll take care of the pain at least."
He turned to Wexter.
"I assume you know a doctor you can take him to."
Wexter nodded. Moving closer, Hoxel found a vein in Kyle's left arm and pressed the tip of the syringe against it. The needle slid in easily. Pressing the plunger, Hoxel waited until the stopper in the syringe had reached the bottom of the tube before pulling it out.
"There," he said, "that should take effect in a few minutes. Now, tell me, did you find what you came here for?"
Kyle contemplated the question before answering.
"Yes," he finally said, "yes I did."
And something more.
Hoxel nodded, and then moved in close before speaking again.
"Now you listen to me, boy, and listen close. You promise me right here and now that you're going to take care of yourself. Quit being so reckless."
Kyle smiled at him.
"I'll try," he said.
"Good enough. And one last thing."
Seeing the man's eyes, Kyle could sense the strong emotion in them. He gave Hoxel his full attention.
"I want you to keep me posted on how you're doing. And understand that you will always be welcome here. Your father may be gone, but as far as I'm concerned, you're part of my family now and this will always be your home."
Kyle felt his throat close up a little as the emotion welled inside him. He raised his left hand and Hoxel clasped it firmly. The two men stared at each other for a long moment.
"I'll remember," Kyle said, "thank you."
Nodding, Hoxel stepped down from the ship and moved away.
"Ooofff!"
The air exploded out of Kyle's lungs as something landed directly in his lap. A moment later, Wee-Gee's photoreceptor appeared, mere inches from his face.
"Weeg!" Kyle exclaimed, trying to get his breath back, "what are you doing?"
The droid issued two perfunctory beeps.
"What's going on up there?" Wexter called.
"Wee Gee wants to come along," Kyle answered, then to the droid said, "I don't know if that's a good idea, Weeg. It…"
The droid cut him off, beep angrily.
"Oh please! It wasn't my fault Father left you there! I wasn't exactly…"
The droid interrupted again.
"No, Weeg. I wasn't going to just leave you there to rot. Geez, what do you..?"
Now the droid switched tactics.
"Of course I care what happens to you. You're my friend. I just…"
The droid jumped in with another string of beeps.
"Okay, fine!" Kyle declared, exasperated, "You wanna come? Then you can come! All right?"
The droid emitted a single, contented beep, settling itself into the lower portion of the cockpit so it would be out of the way.
What I'd give for a laser wrench right now, Kyle thought, and then called to Wexter.
"You'd better increase power to repulsors. Looks like we have a passenger."
Wexter smiled as he keyed in the changes to power settings. The canopy lowered and locked itself into place. Air swirled as the Crow rose off its skids and into the air. Looking outside, Kyle waved at Hoxel, who lifted a hand in response. Then, the view shifted as Wexter spun the ship around and engaged the drive, sending the ship rising into the sky, accelerating until it became a mere dot on the horizon.
Back at the spaceport, Hoxel felt his eyes sting suddenly and reached into his pocket for a cloth to wipe at them.
Blasted dust. Keeps aggravating my allergies.
Rebel Command Ship Intrepid
Eight Hours Later
"And so," Kyle concluded, "after dealing with Wee Gee, Wexter and I departed from Sulon and made the jump to hyperspace without further incident."
"Well," Mon Mothma said, "it seems your side trip to Sulon turned into something bigger than you expected."
Kyle nodded and smiled.
"Between the Tuskens and waterslides, there weren't a lot of dull moments."
The Rebel leader smiled also.
"So how are you feeling?" she asked.
"He'll be just fine," said Doctor Berth, securing the last strip of bandage, "and there. How does that feel?"
"A lot better," Kyle replied, trying a few experimental movements, "it doesn't hurt to move it anymore."
He sat on the edge of a diagnostic table, with Doctor Berth and Mon Mothma to either side. One leg of the trousers he wore had been rolled up to expose his injured calf.
"Good," said Berth, "the damage wasn't extensive, but strangely, when I inspected the muscle, I saw evidence of recent trauma, including some tearing and nerve damage. Probably the reason why it hurt so much when you were shot. I'm just not sure what would have caused it."
Kyle thought back to his overly aggressive workout from days prior even as Berth continued.
"But, whatever the case, you should be fine. However, in order for everything to heal properly, you've got to give it sufficient rest. And as part of that: here.
Berth held out an object. Seeing it, Kyle rolled his eyes.
"Doc, you've got to be kidding."
The object was a cane. A rubber grommet covered the lower half of the black shaft, which curved in the shape of a "7" towards the top, where a piece of rubberized nylon provided a solid gripping surface.
"What?" Berth said, seemingly not understanding.
"Doc," Kyle said emphatically, eyes shifting to the cane.
Berth shrugged. "Look, I was able to repair the damage from the blaster shot. But the musculature still needs time to recover before it'll work normally. Bottom line, you won't be able to walk without it."
"Aw c'mon, doc," Kyle said, not convinced, "I feel fine, see?"
Sliding off the table, he stood a step forward and then the left leg buckled. Kyle started to fall, but Berth was ready and caught him, guiding the operative to the chair Mon Mothma had vacated. Kyle sat down heavily.
"Whoa, that was close. Thanks, doc."
"No problem," replied Berth as he held out the cane, "now will you?"
"There's no other option?" Kyle asked.
"Sure there is, " the doctor said, "you can stay in Sickbay for a week having a machine work on your leg until it's healed."
Kyle reached out, accepting the cane without another word.
"Well," Mon Mothma, "with that settled; Kyle, I'm placing you on restricted duty until further notice.
The operative nodded, he had been expecting this.
"Then this meeting is concluded."
"Mon Mothma, if I may?"
"Yes, Kyle?"
"About Jan and Wee Gee, I was wondering about their respective status."
The smile disappeared from the Rebel leader's face.
"There has still been no word from Jan. She's missed one communications checkpoint in the last four days, with the next coming in two days. Hopefully, we will hear something from her by then. And as for your droid…"
"Oh great," Kyle said, hearing the tone in her voice, "what did he do?"
She waved his concern away.
"Nothing bad, I assure you. The techs examined him and reports are that he appears to be functioning well. However, he refuses to allow them to perform a detailed scan of his interior circuitry without receiving your permission first, in person. The techs reported they tried everything they could, but Wee Gee was most strident in his refusals. He was delivered to your quarters about an hour ago."
Kyle nodded.
"I'll talk to him. Tell the techs he'll report first thing tomorrow and cooperate with them."
"Thank you," said Mon Mothma, "and be sure you get some rest, Kyle. I want you back on active duty as soon as Doctor Berth deems you fit."
"You got it."
"Just remember," the doctor, "don't push the leg too far or too fast. It'll come along on its own in time."
"I will," Kyle replied.
After taking a few faltering steps with the cane and getting some help and tips from Berth, Kyle walked out of Sickbay, the cane clicking on the floor with each step.
He headed to his quarters, passing by a number of the Intrepid's crew on the way. Fortunately, the repulsor scooter just outside Sickbay allowed him to hide the cane. He could only imagine the comments if people knew.
Arriving at the entrance, he used the cane to step down from the scooter. His left leg wobbled uncertainly and his earlier resentment for the plasteel staff was lessened. Stepping inside his quarters, Kyle found Wee Gee floating to one side of the room.
"Mon Mothma tells me you wouldn't let the techs take a look at your insides."
Wee Gee responded with incredulity, "That's what you wanted me to do, wasn't it? You said so in the ship."
"Calm down, Weeg," Kyle said, "you did just fine."
"And what about you?" the droid asked.
Leaning against the wall for support, Kyle held up the cane.
"Have to use this for a week. Other than that, I'm fine."
Wee Gee's reply was relieved sounding.
"You worry too much about me, Weeg. But then, you always have."
The droid responded by floating over and extending one if its manipulator arms. Kyle allowed it to clasp his right hand.
"Someone has to," it said.
Kyle patted the droid's frame.
"Thanks, Weeg. I really do appreciate it. But on another topic, do you still have it?"
In answer, a compartment opened on the droid's body and out came the hilt of the lightsaber. Kyle took it, examining the black and silver shaft.
Wee Gee asked a question.
"Because I wasn't ready, Weeg. And think about it, how exactly do you expect me to explain this to Mon Mothma? Hey, guess what? I went home and found out I'm a Jedi in training? Here's my lightsaber to prove it. Oh, and I also have conversations with a dead Jedi in my mind."
"Well, it's the truth," Wee Gee replied.
"Truth or not, Weeg, I'm not sure she could have handled it. This on top of everything else, including me being a former Imperial. I'd be lucky if they didn't lock me up for psychological observation."
You will have to tell her someday, Kyle. You will have to tell them all.
"I know, Rahn. You're absolutely right. It's just that… I don't feel ready. I don't how to explain this without sounding like a loon."
Wee Gee is right, Kyle. You would be telling them the truth.
"I understand that. But it's been ages since anyone's even seen a Jedi. And here I come claiming to be one? A former Imperial, a mercenary and a Rebel agent? Even I find it hard to believe."
Rahn was silent for a long moment, then responded.
Then you must learn more about the Force, my friend. Seek the knowledge that is available in it, the wisdom that countless Jedi before you knew. And perhaps, in that, you will find the words you seek.
Kyle considered this, and then nodded. "It sounds like a good idea. But how do I do it?"
We will begin with a meditation exercise, having you learn to feel the Force and then seeking knowledge from it.
"Okay."
Begin by finding a place in your quarters.
Kyle looked around, settling on the bed. He sat down on it.
Now, Rahn said, place the lightsaber in your hands, close your eyes and begin your breathing exercises.
Suddenly, Wee Gee spoke up, asking more questions.
"I don't see why not," Kyle replied, "you should have proper clearance. As for tomorrow, let the techs take a look at you, okay?"
Wee Gee respond affirmatively, then floated out of the room, intent on exploring the ship.
"Sorry 'bout that."
No need for apologies.
Kyle started again, placing the lightsaber in his upturned hands, then closing his eyes and focusing on his breathing, in through the nose, out through the mouth.
Good, Rahn said, just like that. Find your center. Be at peace.
Kyle continued this for several more minutes, beginning to feel relaxed.
Excellent. Now, reach out with your mind.
But how? Kyle asked.
As you did before, Rahn replied, concentrate on a single point, the first question you have, the first thing you want to know.
Staring at the darkness behind his closed eyelids, Kyle concentrated, thinking of how he was going to explain to people who and what he was now.
Suddenly, light seemed to fill his vision, a warm, gentle light that begin to spiral into a kaleidoscope of colors, each seemingly richer than the last.
Yes, Rahn said contentedly, now we may begin.
Kyle heard this, and though he didn't completely understand, something in him said confidently that he was in the place he needed to be and that his questions would find their answers.
Smiling, he allowed himself to fall into the whirlpool of light.
Corridor outside the quarters of Kyle Katarn
Three Hours Later
Having finished his explorations of one whole deck of the massive Star Destroyer, Wee Gee floated towards the entrance to Kyle's quarters. The self-guided tour had been enjoyable for the droid as he had encountered members of the Intrepid's crew and while many could not understand him, they were for the most part, friendly.
Now, with his internal batteries dipping towards empty, the droid had returned to charge up his systems before trying the next deck. The door to the room readily opened at his request and he passed inside, photoreceptor looking for a recharging station.
When Wee Gee saw Kyle, the droid stopped short. Activating sensors, the droid made as full an examination as it could, but the results were confusing at best. His own electronic brain could not credibly believe what it was seeing.
For there, about six inches above the bed was Kyle, floating, his legs crossed Indian style underneath him. His eyes were closed and there was a smile on his face.
"Hi Weeg. Welcome back."
Now the droid reacted, letting forth with an incredulous stream of beeps and whistles.
"Calm down, Weeg," Kyle said, softly interrupting. "It's okay. I'm all right."
The reply from the droid was even more incredulous.
"I'm serious, Weeg. I feel fine. In fact, I feel great."
The droid scanned Kyle with its bio sensors. The readings came back, heart rate, blood pressure, all normal. The only abnormality was a higher than normal reading in a portion of the brain.
Still unsure, the droid asked a question.
"Yes, Weeg. I can see you. You're floating just in front of me."
"How?" the droid asked.
"It's the power of the Force, Weeg," he replied, "don't ask me to explain exactly how, but I have these powers now, as you can see."
Wee Gee asked another question.
"Actually, yes I can. Watch this."
Still floating, Kyle reached out a hand. A cup sitting on the sink in the 'fresher trembled, slid and then as Wee Gee watched: rose into the air. It moved towards Kyle, finally settling in his hand.
"It's incredible, Weeg. I would have never imagined this was possible. And according to Rahn, this is only the beginning."
The droid was still not convinced.
"Weeg, it's still me. The same Kyle Katarn you know. It's just that now… I am… something more."
When Wee Gee responded to this, Kyle's face creased in a frown.
"Laugh if you want to, Weeg. But this is the truth. I'm not kidding you."
Wee Gee said more.
"I know it seems unbelievable. I'm the one doing it and I don't quite believe it, either."
Wee Gee asked another question.
"Each thing I do seems to take effort, kind of like working with my mind like I'd work with my body. In fact, now that I say it, maybe I'll take a little break."
The droid watched as the man descended until the mattress gave off a sound as his body settled onto it. Opening his eyes, Kyle blinked twice, and then focused on the droid.
"Hi again, Weeg."
The droid beeped a question.
"I feel okay, Weeg. Maybe a little tired. But nothing hurts."
His head cocked to one side as if he was listening to something. He nodded.
"It's like Rahn just said. Using the Force does require some effort, depending on how experienced you are with it. I've got to build my mental muscles just like I work out my body."
Now Wee Gee offered a comment. Kyle smiled.
"I've been wondering what Father would think of this too. Rahn has told me that he was Force-sensitive too, but never really explored it."
Then Wee Gee asked the question.
Kyle hesitated before answering.
"I don't know. I feel like I know a bit more about the Force now, but I'm still not sure how to explain it to the others. I guess I'm not ready yet.
Wee Gee seemed to accept this, and then turned to a different topic.
"Oh c'mon, Weeg!" Kyle exclaimed, "not you too! Why do so many people seem to have a problem with my growing a beard?"
The argument continued for an hour more, neither side gaining ground or capitulating. Finally, it was decided that Kyle would keep his beard and Wee Gee would let him know the moment any gray appeared in it.
The next morning, Kyle accompanied Wee Gee to Droid Inspection Lab #3. Inside, he found a group of technicians milling about, conducting various tests on some the Intrepid's cadre of droids. One of them spotted the two newcomers.
"Can I help you?"
"I'm Kyle Katarn and this is my droid, Wee Gee, here for inspection."
"Oh yes," the man in the technician's uniform said, "I remember this one well."
He extended a hand.
"I'm Cadn Elmnis, specialist in the R series of droids. I noticed yours has some of the components of one."
"He's a custom built," Kyle offered.
"I figured as much," said Elmnis, "it would perhaps explain why he was so… reluctant to allow us to perform the full scan."
Kyle shrugged.
"Wee Gee has always been quirk… I mean, unique. But don't worry. I've talked to him and he's agreed to cooperate with you."
"I see," said Elmnis, "well then, Wee Gee, if you'll come with me, we'll begin with the internal component scan."
The droid's photoreceptor turned to look at Kyle for a moment. As if sensing the droid's hesitation, Elmnis spoke again.
"I promise you it won't hurt, Wee Gee. We just want to take a look at your internal systems. It's not often my team and I get to examine a droid as unique as you are. Afterwards, we may have a few questions to ask and that'll be it."
Hearing this, Wee Gee floated past in the direction indicated by the technician. He beeped something and Kyle could not help but laugh.
"Talk about your delusions of adequacy. Make sure to behave yourself, Weeg."
"This shouldn't take more than an hour or so," Elmnis offered, "should I have him wait here for you afterwards?"
"No need, he knows the way back to my quarters."
The technician nodded, and Kyle turned and left, returning to his quarters for another meditation session with Rahn. When Wee Gee came back two hours later and began to tell Kyle how well he was treated, he found the man floating just below the ceiling of the room and the same cup from yesterday along with his blaster and lightsaber floating in front of him.
To Wee-Gee's incredulous surprise, Kyle smiled.
"It's incredible, Weeg. I'm doing very much the same things as yesterday, but the sense of confidence I have now, of control, I think I'm getting better.
You are growing, Kyle, said Rahn.
The next day, after Doctor Berth had authorized it, Kyle made his first trek out of his quarters. He still used the repulsor scooters to move across large spaces, but where he could, he walked, the cane clicking loudly in the corridors, announcing his presence wherever he went. And as he had feared, seeing the cane had people treating him differently. It had taken a little less than two hours after breakfast before he had had it. And so, to the next person who offered to help him, Kyle said this.
"Instead of helping me, crewman, there is something more important I'd like you to do."
"Of course, sir."
Kyle smiled a predator's smile at the man.
"Inasmuch as you can, spread the word that the next person after you who offers to help me or treats me like some kind of invalid is gonna get a beating courtesy of this cane."
He raised it menacingly.
"Am I clear?"
"Yes, sir," the now frightened crewer said.
"Good," Kyle said, still smiling, "on your way then."
And so it was when Kyle came to the mess hall that night for dinner, no one offered to help him. However, several whispered conversations went on as he was observed struggling to balance a tray full of food with one hand.
Seeing a table close by, Kyle made for it. The tray wavered again, threatening to spill.
C'mon, he told himself, almost there. And so he was when the cane slid a bit, causing Kyle to overstep. The tray tilted and began to fall.
"Whoa there!" called a voice.
A pair of hands reached out from behind him, grabbing the tray before it could spill. At the same time, another pair of hands grabbed Kyle's left arm and pulled, helping to steady him. The whole incident was over in a few seconds.
Having been sure the tray was going to spill, Kyle realized he was breathing a bit fast. Calming himself, he turned to his benefactor.
"Thank you, that was a little too close."
"You're welcome," said a familiar voice.
"We're always glad to help," said a second, also familiar, voice.
Turning in the direction the voices had came from; he saw the smiling faces of Tinuviel Undomiel and Nerwen Aldarion, the co-heads of Rebel Intelligence.
"Well," he said, a bit nonplussed, "this is unexpected."
"Oh?" said Tinuviel.
"And why is that?" asked Nerwen.
Man, they confuse me when they do that. I'm not sure who to look at when I answer.
"Well," he said, trying to come up with an answer, "I figured with Jan's mission and all, you two would be pretty busy."
"Oh we are," said Nerwen.
"But we decided we needed a break," said Tinuviel.
Kyle nodded.
"Well, you couldn't have picked a better time for it. Thanks again."
"You're welcome," they said together.
How in the heck do they do that?
He reached out a hand.
"I can take that now," he said.
"Oh no," said Tinuviel, pulling the tray away.
"There's no way we're going to let you do that," added Nerwen.
"But, gir… I mean, ladies…"
"No buts," the two of them said together.
"You're coming with me," said Tinuviel, shifting the tray to one hand while she took Kyle's left hand with her right. She started ahead and he finally had to take a step to follow her.
"I'll get our food," offered Nerwen, heading for the line of people holding trays.
Being virtually dragged, Kyle tried a final protest.
"C'mon, Tinuviel, I'm not some invalid here. I can walk."
"I know that," she answered without looking at him, "but a little help can't hurt, can it?"
"Still…"
"I can pull rank on you, you know," she said, turning to look over her shoulder at him and winking. "You don't really want me to do that, do you?"
Memories of Jan saying something similar flashed through his mind. Kyle chuckled.
"All right," he said, "you win, this time."
With another smile in his direction, Tinuviel guided Kyle over to a table, allowing the operative to take a seat by himself and placing his tray down before moving off to meet her sister, who was approaching, carrying two trays. The twins took seats opposite Kyle.
"See?" said Nerwen, "that wasn't so bad, was it?"
"I suppose not," said Kyle, "it's just that ever since breakfast, everyone on this ship is treating me like some old man who can't manage to tie his own shoes."
"It's that bad?" asked Tinuviel.
"When some guy older than me decided he needs to help me get onto one of the repulsor scooters? Yeah, it's that bad."
The twins stared at him for a moment, and then began to laugh.
Cheeks coloring with embarrassment, Kyle looked away.
"It's not that funny."
"We're sorry," said Nerwen, still chuckling.
"It's just," Tinuviel added, "the mental image."
They dissolved into laughter again.
"Y'know," Kyle said sarcastically, "I'm so glad you two stopped by. I feel so much better now."
Still, watching them and remembering the incident, Kyle admitted to himself that it was kinda funny. But no way would he admit it. Instead, he tucked into his meal, as did Tinuviel and Nerwen once they got themselves under control.
Later, when they had finished, the twins both gazed at him. Having finished his own meal shortly before, Kyle met their gazes until it became uncomfortable.
"What?" he finally asked.
"We were just wondering," said Nerwen.
"How the mission to your home planet went," finished Tinuviel.
"We saw that droid you brought back," added Nerwen.
"Is he yours?" asked Tinuviel.
"Well, sort of," Kyle replied, "my father built him years ago as a specialty droid to help around the house. And… when my mom died, Wee Gee sort of became my defacto guardian."
"Wee Gee?" the twins said together.
"That's his name," Kyle explained, "although I mostly call him Weeg."
"Where did you come up…" began Nerwen.
"… with such an odd name?" finished Tinuviel.
"Well," Kyle said, smiling as he recalled the event, "believe it or not, it was the first thing he said. Once my father got him working, he asked him some questions, beginning with, 'What is your name?'
"And he said Wee Gee?" asked Tinuviel
"For real?" added Nerwen.
"True story," said Kyle, "you can ask him yourself if you want."
The twins looked at each other, exchanging a glance. Kyle decided it was time for him to ask something.
"Listen, I know a lot of your work is classified, but can I ask you about Jan's mission? Have you heard from her? Or anything in regards to the mission?"
"That's okay," said Tinuviel.
"We don't mind if you ask, "said Nerwen, "the only problem is…"
"We don't know much in the way of new data," finished Tinuviel.
"No comm traffic or data downloads?"
The twins shook their heads.
"The last communication from Jan came while you were still on Sulon," said Nerwen.
"She reported successful entry into the Drovan System and that she was setting course for Outpost Beta as scheduled," added Tinuviel.
"That's the last we heard," finished Nerwen.
"And she's already missed one communications checkpoint," said Kyle.
The twins nodded.
The silence grew until all three at the table grew uncomfortable.
"Maybe we should…" Tinuviel began when her wrist chrono began to chime, as did Nerwen's.
The twins looked at the devices with disappointed looks.
"Time to get back?" Kyle asked.
"Yes, "said Tinuviel.
"I guess so," added Nerwen.
"Well, I don't want to keep you, so…"
Just then, the twins leaned across, each taking one of Kyle's hands and squeezing it.
"It'll be okay, Kyle," said Tinuviel.
"Don't worry, Jan will come back safe," said Nerwen.
"We just know it," they said together.
Kyle smiled at them. "Thanks, both of you. I'll try not to worry."
The twins gave him a last, glowing smile, then let go and turned away, moving for the room's exit. Waiting until they were gone, Kyle carefully rose from his chair and headed back to his quarters.
He had a question to ask Rahn.
