MistiWhitesun - Yeah it is a challenge to work with the opposite sex Master/Padawan team. But I thought to take up on the challenge! And by adding the little embarrassing moments, it would add to the humor of the story!
Thanks so much for the tips! Doing this alone I kind'a over look the minor details. Oh I have always loved Tahl and Qui! And enjoying your little memory posts of Tahl! Loving them!!
Fear not! I'm new at this fan fic stuffles too! :D :D Thanks again for reading!! Hope you like the next part!
The evening went by quickly as Menaria finished up her lessons and Lindoro read from one of his holobooks. Once done with her lessons, the two went and meditated for an hour then returned back to their quarters for bed.
It took Menaria longer than usual to fall asleep due to her mind being all in a whirl about the upcoming celebrations. But after a few minutes of slow and deep breaths, she was able to clear her mind enough to pass into a blissful sleep.
Lindoro read for a few more hours until his eyes couldn't stay open any longer. Using the Force to deactivate the light, he put his holobook off onto the end table near his bed and crawled under his sheets and also drifted off into sleep.
Next Day
I'm tired of being what you want me to be
Feeling so faithless, lost under the surface
I don't know what you're expecting of me
Put under the pressure of walking in your shoes...
Every step that I take is another mistake to you...
Can't you see that you're smothering me?
Holding too tightly, afraid to lose control
Cuz everything that you thought I would be
Has fallen apart right in front of you...
Caught in the undertow, just caught in the undertow...
Every step that I take is another mistake to you...
Caught in the undertow, just caught in the undertow...
And every second I braced is more than I can take!
I've become so numb, I can't feel you there
I've become so tired, so much more aware
By becoming this all I want to do
Is be more like me and be less like you
I've become so numb, I can't feel you there
I'm tired of being what you want me to be
"Numb" Linkin Park
The morning could not have gone any better as the shower routine started out with Lindoro once more. Exiting the shower, he was reminded of his blushing Padawan of the day before. Chuckling, he watched Menaria quickly enter the refresher and close the door. It was obvious that she, too, remembered all to well.
Returning to his room, he fixed his hair, mustache, and beard. 'I think I'll go to the park again today.' He thought as he put on his boots and waited for Menaria to finish her showering so they could go meditate.
After their hour of meditation, they headed for breakfast and sat with the initiates once more. Delak had joined them as well.
"Morning Master Delak, Knight D'Lockens, Menaria." The initiates bowed respectively.
"Good morning to you as well." Master Delak said as he took his seat next to Lindoro. Lindoro smiled and greeted the initiates as well.
"Morning Master Delak, Seriu, Nania, Kork. Looks like it's going to be another lovely day, eh?" Menaria said as she took her seat and dug into her breakfast.
The meal went by quickly as they all ate in silence. Once in a while Delak would glance sideways at Lindoro and Menaria. He would have to refrain from chuckling as he saw his best friend teasingly elbow his Padawan every now and then. She would shoot him a glance that bordered on shock and comical. Only then did he realize why the Knight sat at her left. She was left-handed while Lindoro was right. The childish smirk on his friend's face was priceless. 'How good it is to see him relax and joke once more!' Delak smiled as he finished up his eggs and toast with his drink. 'I'm going to miss their interactions while I'm gone. Guess I'll have to get an update from him once I get back.'
The students and Padawan bowed respectfully and bid the Master and Knight good day as they headed off to class.
Delak turned to Lindoro. "So what's on the market for you today?"
"I thought I'd go to the Senatorial Park. If you like we could spar after I get back? We yet have to do that." Lindoro wiggled his eyebrows.
Delak chuckled and gently punched Lindoro in the arm. "I do hope so; I'm beginning to think that you've backed out due to being gone for so long."
Lindoro shook his head. "No not backing out, but I am out of practice and the other day proved that as well." He rubbed his bearded chin absently.
That caught Delak's attention. "Oh really, do tell?"
"Well, it's sort of embarrassing, rather for me it was. I kind of tripped over Menaria and took a dive to the mat." Lindoro stated as he glanced at his friend.
Delak laughed out loud then quickly quieted down, not wanting to draw attention to the two at the table. "To have been there... I would have willingly given credits for that!"
"Well it wasn't funny... well maybe it was." Lindoro chuckled as he got up to take his plate to the tray table. Delak joined him.
"It is really good to see you this way. I might have a chance for once when we spar!" Delak exclaimed as he pat his companion on the back. "Well I'm off to help out in the crèche. I'll hook up with you after mid day meal. We'll show your Padawan a thing or two about sparring." He then bid Lindoro good day as he walked toward a turbolift to take him to the children's quarters.
Lindoro headed toward the docking bay to check out a speeder. Knight Stani received him with a smile. "Errands again?" Wiping his hands off, he then gave the authorizing datapad to the Knight.
"Actually for a spin this time." Lindoro smiled as he put in his access code and destination. Giving the datapad back, he noticed Stani's eyebrows rise as the man noticed the location.
Smiling at the tall Knight, Stani nodded. "Great place I go there sometimes myself. See you in a couple of hours then." The dark skinned mechanic waved to Lindoro as he went back to working on one of the speeders.
Lindoro got into his designated speeder and headed off to the park. Within moments of his leaving another vehicle joined the ranks heading toward the same general direction of the park.
Walking in the park once more, Lindoro opened himself up to the Force and allowed all feelings to be felt. It started with people's emotions ranging from calm, to nervousness, agitation, anger, sadness, joy, and fear. He blocked all that out and focused upon serenity that the place offered. Standing there with his eyes close, caused several by passers to look at him strangely, but upon seeing his garb they shrugged and kept their distance from the standing Jedi. Lindoro was oblivious to all that, his concentration was fully on the Living Force. As he expanded the flow to take in the entire park, he picked up on another Force sensitive being. Curious to know more about this person, he sent a tendril that way. 'Another Jedi perhaps?' It was immediately answered with a sensation of shock then the awareness abruptly ended, as the other person's shields were slammed tight.
Lindoro immediately opened his eyes and sought the other Jedi out. He saw a figure off in the distance sitting on a bench talking into his comlink. The man was looking right back at him. Lindoro's curiosity was peaked. 'What is he doing here?' Lindoro didn't recognize the man and started to walk his way.
There was a sense of urgency about the unknown Jedi but it was replaced with calm as Lindoro figured that the man had achieved his center of calm once more. The man spoke in the comlink one last time before Lindoro reached him. The man obviously ended the conversation and put the comlink away. He stood up at Lindoro's approach and nodded slightly, putting his arms inside his light brown robe.
"Greetings Knight D'Lockens." The man's voice was deep, deeper than Lindoro's and his height was a foot shorter. His tunic was of an off white with tan leggings. His long red-golden hair was pulled back into a ponytail and braided. Pale-green eyes looked alert upon the calm and clean-shaven face.
"I'm afraid we're at a disadvantage. I do not know you." Lindoro's tartly voice added to his demeanor. The other Jedi didn't seem bothered by this.
Nodding once more, he smiled slightly. "I am Knight Seaun Ris. Beautiful place here isn't it?" He glanced around at the park.
"Yes it is. I take it you're here to 'meditate' as well?" Lindoro couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that started to trickle through him.
"No, not really. Relaxing in a different atmosphere is sometimes required, if you get my meaning." The smile still displayed upon his face.
Lindoro noticed that it did not reflect in the shorter man's eyes. Still opened to the Force, he couldn't help but pick up on that sensation. "Yes, I agree. Until next time Knight Ris." Lindoro nodded politely and headed to the large pool of water where he had visited yesterday. His thoughts began to jumble about.
'Ummm I wonder...' He took a seat on the same bench and fully immersed himself into the Force to replay back the memories of the past few days. Looking over the events carefully and then backtracking further back in time to when he had returned to Coruscant from the Outer Rim. 'It has only been close to two months...but now that I'm thinking back...'
The images were a blur but with the assistance from the Force, he started picking up sights that he hadn't noticed before. 'Fool! If you have learned anything from your experiences these past six years this should have been one of them!! This should not have continued on for so long! I was used to looking out for things like this back there...I guess I didn't expect it from here.'
The images showed him that whenever he would leave the Temple a "hidden" presence had followed him discreetly. Though he had only left the Temple a few times prior to delivering the message to the Senator he could now recall the 'shadow'. 'How could they? What has caused them to do this? After all that I have done? After all that I went through...for them!' Anger rose in the tall Knight as he sat on the bench contemplating. Slowly, ever so slowly his heart rate began to race and his breaths quicken. 'After everything! Trailing me...someone has been following me every time! Damn them! What, I'm under surveillance now?!' He was coated in a thin layer of sweat as the feelings raged through him, his face flushed. Growling he got up from his seat and stomped away from the bench nearly running someone over.
The 'someone' let out a surprised gasp at the tall Knight's near bumping into him.
Lindoro reached out to prevent the colliding at the last second, gently taking the man's arms. Only then did he notice that it was Senator Palpatine. "Senator, I'm so sorry please excuse me I was lost in thought." Lindoro stammered as he let go of the man and tried to rein in his anger and embarrassment.
Palpatine had watched it all from a distance, observing the Knight while slowly making his way over to him. He just shrugged as he waved his hand. "Think nothing of it, I too have gotten lost in thought on numerous occasions. I just happen to see you sitting over here and thought I'd stop and say hello. Were you leaving?" He smiled warmly up at the tall man. 'Something obviously has upset him. I wonder what it might have been. Ahhh a Jedi who looses their cool so easily, how entertaining!' Though his thoughts were gleeful this was not betrayed upon his face, which was reflecting calm and friendliness.
Lindoro bowed respectfully as he remembered to do so at the last moment. "Yes sir. I was just leaving. But it is good to see you again. Have you been able to talk with the Supreme Chancellor on your request of Jedi assistance on your upcoming conference?" He asked while continuing to stable his emotions, within seconds he was somewhat in control.
"Yes, yes I have and he said that it was a great idea. I gave him your name. He is supposed to be talking with Master Yoda within the next week or so. I believe on several matters actually. He said he was going to ask then. I'm sure Master Yoda will brief you after that. I am so relieved that the Chancellor agreed. And also about allowing...well requesting you. I don't know too many Jedi. Even though I just met you, I seem to feel that I can trust you. You are so much easier to talk to than the other Jedi that I've encountered." Palpatine smirked mischievously; his light blue eyes twinkled with mirth.
Lindoro actually chuckled at that and smiled widely back, relaxing some. "If you say so, Senator, though I also must admit that out of all the politicians that I've talked with you are the easiest as well."
Palpatine joined Lindoro's chuckling. "Well, I don't believe in the 'stuck-up' being part of the act of politicking. That is probably one of the reasons why I don't get along with most of the other Senators all that well."
Lindoro nodded. He understood that all to well himself. "Yes sir, I know what you mean."
"Well since you are off, guess I better get back to work. I was just stretching my legs. All those meetings can really tire a person out after a while. Fresh air and different surroundings are always refreshing." Palpatine held out his hand, which was taken by the Knight and shaken.
"Yes sir, another thing in common it looks like we have. Though the Temple has a beautiful room to go too, it's sometimes more relaxing to go to a different spot once in awhile." He smiled knowingly at the Senator.
"Well Knight D'Lockens, until next time." He paused for a second before turning and spoke up once more. "Are your lunches taken? I would like to spend time to get to know you. Well, that is if you aren't to busy with your Padawan."
Lindoro stopped himself from bowing when the Senator spoke up again. "I usually spend lunch with her...but I'm sure she would not mind if I missed one now and then. When would you like to?"
Palpatine smiled warmly. "Well let me check with my aide to see if we can do it tomorrow. I'll get in touch with the Temple to get a message to you as soon as I talk with her." Palpatine said as he withdrew a data pad from his side pocket and fingered something on it.
"No, it might take a while to go through the Temple. Here, here's my comlink coordinates." Lindoro took out his comlink and passed it over to the Senator who in turn took out his own and entered the coordinates from the Knight's onto his.
"All right then. I'll get back with you as soon as I can." He handed the Knight's comlink back to him and put his own and the data pad back into the side pocket. "Until lunch then, Knight D'Lockens."
Lindoro bowed slightly. "Until then, Senator Palpatine." The two then headed off into opposite directions.
Lindoro's train of thoughts immediately went back to his "shadow". As he stepped out of the park he opened himself to the Force again to sense where his trailer was. 'Following...yes he's there. I will find out the reason for this!' As he headed back to his speeder, a sad thought crossed his mind and dread filled him and intertwined with the anger. 'You already know why they are doing this...you knew this would happen but you kept denying it.'
He leaped in the speeder and raced off toward the Temple. The rage traveled along his nerves, causing a burning sensation throughout his body. Keeping his focus forward, he skimmed in and out of the traffic as their slowness increased his fury. Several people cursed him as he sped in and round them. At one time he nearly caused a wreck, which made him chuckle slightly as a sneer replaced the scowl on his face. Finally arriving, he checked the speeder back in.
Knight Stani was surprised to see him back so early, but the look upon the man's face and the anger that seem to flow from him made him hold his question in check. He took back the datapad from the Knight and watched him nearly stomp his way toward the turbolift. 'Now that does not look promising...wonder what happened?' Within seconds the other Knight returned and checked in his speeder as he talked in his comlink to someone. Knight Ris was not looking all that happy either.
"Master Windu, he has discovered me and is more than likely on his way to you." Ris informed as he made his way to the turbolift after nodding goodbye to Stani.
"Do nothing until I get back with you and thank you for the heads up." Master Windu's voice sounded somewhat disappointed than worried.
"As you wish, Master. I'll head off to put in the report." Ris ended the transmission and gave the turbolift his destination.
Lindoro waited for the turbolift to come to a stop and once the doors opened, he headed straight to the Council Room's door as the roaring feelings were still coursing through him.
Upon reaching the doorway leading into the room, Padawan Lionel stepped in front of him. "Sir, they're discussing a few things at the moment if you would like to wait..." He didn't get to finish as a feeling overcame him and he was gently pushed to the side.
"I will see them now!" Lindoro growled under his breath as he lowered his hand. He had come close to Force pushing the boy into the wall, but had barely held back the urge and instead gently shoved him out of the way.
Lionel was surprised and started forward once more. "But sir!" He was immediately frozen in place as he felt the Force swirl around him. He could not speak or move and his mouth was still slightly open. A chill passed through him as he felt the darkness mixed in with the light.
Lindoro kept his hand up slightly as he accessed the door with the other hand. It was locked. Growling slightly, he used the Force and over rode the lock, which caused the door to swish open. Stepping into the circular room, he freed Lionel from the Force hold.
The boy ran inside after Lindoro calling out to the Masters. "Masters, I apologize...I tried to tell him..." The Senior Padawan stammered as he was flushed with embarrassment. He never had a fellow Jedi use the Force against him in this manner except during sparring or wrestling training.
Master Yoda and Master Windu were the only Councilors in the room. They were both near the large window observing Coruscant's traffic. Master Yoda's ears had perked up at the Knight's intrusion. Master Windu had a slight frown and his eyes were staring at Lindoro as he spoke to the boy.
"We understand Lionel, we felt the Force being used against you. We can handle it from here, go ahead and finish the report that I assigned you earlier. Just let anybody else who might arrive that we are in a middle of a meeting." Mace finally glanced at the boy and gave him a reassuring nod.
Lionel bowed to the two Masters and left giving Lindoro a wide berth as he passed him and exited through the door. The door swished closed and silence followed.
Lindoro could barely hold his anger in check, he knew he just violated the Code by forcing his way in. 'I don't care! They have no right!'
Master Yoda lowered his hover chair down and over to his assigned seat as Master Windu walked back to his own.
"I take it this is important?" Mace's voice was tense, obviously upset by the interruption.
Master Yoda eyed him warily. "Disgraceful and misuse of the Force you have done. Not necessary was this. Done we would have been within minutes had you but asked the Senior Padawan." The little Master shook his head sadly.
Lindoro could have kicked himself; he had not even thought to check with Lionel. This only fueled his anger further.
"Why? Why do you have a Jedi following me? Watching over me as if I was a Padawan or worse yet a criminal?" His voice was low and harsh as the anger threatened to rip him open from within.
Yoda's ears lowered. "Discovered Knight Ris you have then?" At Lindoro's curt nod, the green Master's ears lowered even more. "Unfortunate this is." Sadness flowed from him, which only riled up the Knight even more.
"Unfortunate?! Unfortunate to have a 'shadow'? To be watched over? To ensure I don't do what? I can't believe this! After all that I have done! After what I have gone through for this Council! For the Order and for this blasted Republic!" Spitting out the latter, he waved his hand toward the window jerkily as the anger peaked. His breaths were coming out as gasps while sweat began to bead upon his brow.
"Knight D'Lockens! You will control yourself!" Master Windu's deep voice cut through the Knight's ranting like a blade.
Lindoro lowered his voice, but his anger was not released into the Force. He could not; IT would not allow him to. All he could do was hold IT in check and ride the rage as one would a roller coaster. He looked directly into the dark skinned Master's face and locked eyes with him. Very few people could maintain eye contact with Master Windu for any length of time and Lindoro was now added to that list of those that could.
"Control myself?" His voice was dripping with malice. "Should I? After this? Do tell me why I'm under surveillance?" Lindoro asked sarcastically.
Mace sighed heavily as he observed the Knight. There was no question or doubt that the Knight was upset. He didn't need the Force to tell him that even though through the Force it literally poured from the man like a busted dam. And the aura was unsettling as it was tinged with darkness.
"Knight Ris is there for both your sake and for others' safety." Mace intoned as he watched Lindoro carefully. He was hoping that this would not escalate any further. He placed his right hand on his thigh to be at the ready in case things did get out of control
"My sake? My sake and for the safety of others? Are you inquiring that I'm dangerous?!" Lindoro laughed harshly at the Master's words. 'I can't believe this! This is a bunch of crock!' But as soon as he thought it, he paused. 'Am I dangerous...? If so why did they allow my choosing of Menaria?' Fear began to lace the anger, slowly putting out the fire that roared within him.
Master Yoda closed his eyes and hmmmed quietly as he sent a calming tendril out toward the raging Knight, hoping to help soothe the man's anger and rising fear.
"If that is so...then why." His voice croaked slightly as he swallowed hard, his mouth and throat had suddenly become dry. "Why did you allow the ceremony to happen?" He finished as he kept staring into Windu's near black eyes. He felt through the Force Master Yoda's attempt to 'cool' him down; it helped a little.
Master Windu kept the eye contact as well, his face still holding the stern expression. "The Council decided that it was the right decision. Yes, some of us were hesitant at first, but we came to an agreement later. We believe that she is right for you and that together you will make an excellent Master/Padawan team." Master Windu moved slightly in his chair and only those who truly knew the Master would know that he was uneasy for he had been one of the few who was against the bonding and still questioned it. He actually glanced over at Master Yoda who in turn opened his eyes and return the look.
"Agreed the Council has, your Padawan she is and will be until she becomes a Knight." The little Master said as he turned to look back at the Knight.
Lindoro sighed as the anger finally left him. He felt tired, weak, and much older than his 40 standard years. Shoulders slumping, he sighed heavily as he bowed his head in shame and his voice hoarse with the leaving of his chaotic emotions. His slightly dampen hair fell around his face. "I am sorry Masters. It was wrong of me to barge in and question your authority and judgment."
The two Masters glanced at each other prior to looking back at the sorrowful Knight. Mace was fixing to say something but stopped when Yoda raised his three-fingered hand to halt the dark skinned man from speaking.
"Wrong it was for you to burst in and with the anger guiding you. Questioning us behind closed doors is not. Worse this could have turned out. An apology you owe young Lionel. Discuss with the Council we will about Knight Ris. Required he is no longer, if the Council agrees. Punished you will not be, but more focus you should be if not for your sake then for your Padawan's. Meditate upon this you must." Yoda said as he pointed his gimmer stick at Lindoro when the Knight looked up to meet the green Master's eyes.
"I will Masters, believe me I will. I have much to meditate on." He said subserviently.
"Then I advise you to go and do this...after you apologize to Senior Padawan Lionel." Mace ordered.
Lindoro bowed to the Masters as he saw that this was a dismissal and then walked through the doorway out into the waiting area as the doors closed behind him.
Mace and Yoda eyed each other, "Afraid this would happen I did." Yoda whispered under his breath.
Mace nodded in turn, "But it could have gone a lot worse. You were right...when you talked about Padawan Darce his anger left him. Perhaps she will be his guiding light."
"Together they are one, light and darkness. She will bring him back to the light." Yoda then hmmmed quietly as he closed his eyes in thought.
Thanks so much for the tips! Doing this alone I kind'a over look the minor details. Oh I have always loved Tahl and Qui! And enjoying your little memory posts of Tahl! Loving them!!
Fear not! I'm new at this fan fic stuffles too! :D :D Thanks again for reading!! Hope you like the next part!
The evening went by quickly as Menaria finished up her lessons and Lindoro read from one of his holobooks. Once done with her lessons, the two went and meditated for an hour then returned back to their quarters for bed.
It took Menaria longer than usual to fall asleep due to her mind being all in a whirl about the upcoming celebrations. But after a few minutes of slow and deep breaths, she was able to clear her mind enough to pass into a blissful sleep.
Lindoro read for a few more hours until his eyes couldn't stay open any longer. Using the Force to deactivate the light, he put his holobook off onto the end table near his bed and crawled under his sheets and also drifted off into sleep.
Next Day
I'm tired of being what you want me to be
Feeling so faithless, lost under the surface
I don't know what you're expecting of me
Put under the pressure of walking in your shoes...
Every step that I take is another mistake to you...
Can't you see that you're smothering me?
Holding too tightly, afraid to lose control
Cuz everything that you thought I would be
Has fallen apart right in front of you...
Caught in the undertow, just caught in the undertow...
Every step that I take is another mistake to you...
Caught in the undertow, just caught in the undertow...
And every second I braced is more than I can take!
I've become so numb, I can't feel you there
I've become so tired, so much more aware
By becoming this all I want to do
Is be more like me and be less like you
I've become so numb, I can't feel you there
I'm tired of being what you want me to be
"Numb" Linkin Park
The morning could not have gone any better as the shower routine started out with Lindoro once more. Exiting the shower, he was reminded of his blushing Padawan of the day before. Chuckling, he watched Menaria quickly enter the refresher and close the door. It was obvious that she, too, remembered all to well.
Returning to his room, he fixed his hair, mustache, and beard. 'I think I'll go to the park again today.' He thought as he put on his boots and waited for Menaria to finish her showering so they could go meditate.
After their hour of meditation, they headed for breakfast and sat with the initiates once more. Delak had joined them as well.
"Morning Master Delak, Knight D'Lockens, Menaria." The initiates bowed respectively.
"Good morning to you as well." Master Delak said as he took his seat next to Lindoro. Lindoro smiled and greeted the initiates as well.
"Morning Master Delak, Seriu, Nania, Kork. Looks like it's going to be another lovely day, eh?" Menaria said as she took her seat and dug into her breakfast.
The meal went by quickly as they all ate in silence. Once in a while Delak would glance sideways at Lindoro and Menaria. He would have to refrain from chuckling as he saw his best friend teasingly elbow his Padawan every now and then. She would shoot him a glance that bordered on shock and comical. Only then did he realize why the Knight sat at her left. She was left-handed while Lindoro was right. The childish smirk on his friend's face was priceless. 'How good it is to see him relax and joke once more!' Delak smiled as he finished up his eggs and toast with his drink. 'I'm going to miss their interactions while I'm gone. Guess I'll have to get an update from him once I get back.'
The students and Padawan bowed respectfully and bid the Master and Knight good day as they headed off to class.
Delak turned to Lindoro. "So what's on the market for you today?"
"I thought I'd go to the Senatorial Park. If you like we could spar after I get back? We yet have to do that." Lindoro wiggled his eyebrows.
Delak chuckled and gently punched Lindoro in the arm. "I do hope so; I'm beginning to think that you've backed out due to being gone for so long."
Lindoro shook his head. "No not backing out, but I am out of practice and the other day proved that as well." He rubbed his bearded chin absently.
That caught Delak's attention. "Oh really, do tell?"
"Well, it's sort of embarrassing, rather for me it was. I kind of tripped over Menaria and took a dive to the mat." Lindoro stated as he glanced at his friend.
Delak laughed out loud then quickly quieted down, not wanting to draw attention to the two at the table. "To have been there... I would have willingly given credits for that!"
"Well it wasn't funny... well maybe it was." Lindoro chuckled as he got up to take his plate to the tray table. Delak joined him.
"It is really good to see you this way. I might have a chance for once when we spar!" Delak exclaimed as he pat his companion on the back. "Well I'm off to help out in the crèche. I'll hook up with you after mid day meal. We'll show your Padawan a thing or two about sparring." He then bid Lindoro good day as he walked toward a turbolift to take him to the children's quarters.
Lindoro headed toward the docking bay to check out a speeder. Knight Stani received him with a smile. "Errands again?" Wiping his hands off, he then gave the authorizing datapad to the Knight.
"Actually for a spin this time." Lindoro smiled as he put in his access code and destination. Giving the datapad back, he noticed Stani's eyebrows rise as the man noticed the location.
Smiling at the tall Knight, Stani nodded. "Great place I go there sometimes myself. See you in a couple of hours then." The dark skinned mechanic waved to Lindoro as he went back to working on one of the speeders.
Lindoro got into his designated speeder and headed off to the park. Within moments of his leaving another vehicle joined the ranks heading toward the same general direction of the park.
Walking in the park once more, Lindoro opened himself up to the Force and allowed all feelings to be felt. It started with people's emotions ranging from calm, to nervousness, agitation, anger, sadness, joy, and fear. He blocked all that out and focused upon serenity that the place offered. Standing there with his eyes close, caused several by passers to look at him strangely, but upon seeing his garb they shrugged and kept their distance from the standing Jedi. Lindoro was oblivious to all that, his concentration was fully on the Living Force. As he expanded the flow to take in the entire park, he picked up on another Force sensitive being. Curious to know more about this person, he sent a tendril that way. 'Another Jedi perhaps?' It was immediately answered with a sensation of shock then the awareness abruptly ended, as the other person's shields were slammed tight.
Lindoro immediately opened his eyes and sought the other Jedi out. He saw a figure off in the distance sitting on a bench talking into his comlink. The man was looking right back at him. Lindoro's curiosity was peaked. 'What is he doing here?' Lindoro didn't recognize the man and started to walk his way.
There was a sense of urgency about the unknown Jedi but it was replaced with calm as Lindoro figured that the man had achieved his center of calm once more. The man spoke in the comlink one last time before Lindoro reached him. The man obviously ended the conversation and put the comlink away. He stood up at Lindoro's approach and nodded slightly, putting his arms inside his light brown robe.
"Greetings Knight D'Lockens." The man's voice was deep, deeper than Lindoro's and his height was a foot shorter. His tunic was of an off white with tan leggings. His long red-golden hair was pulled back into a ponytail and braided. Pale-green eyes looked alert upon the calm and clean-shaven face.
"I'm afraid we're at a disadvantage. I do not know you." Lindoro's tartly voice added to his demeanor. The other Jedi didn't seem bothered by this.
Nodding once more, he smiled slightly. "I am Knight Seaun Ris. Beautiful place here isn't it?" He glanced around at the park.
"Yes it is. I take it you're here to 'meditate' as well?" Lindoro couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that started to trickle through him.
"No, not really. Relaxing in a different atmosphere is sometimes required, if you get my meaning." The smile still displayed upon his face.
Lindoro noticed that it did not reflect in the shorter man's eyes. Still opened to the Force, he couldn't help but pick up on that sensation. "Yes, I agree. Until next time Knight Ris." Lindoro nodded politely and headed to the large pool of water where he had visited yesterday. His thoughts began to jumble about.
'Ummm I wonder...' He took a seat on the same bench and fully immersed himself into the Force to replay back the memories of the past few days. Looking over the events carefully and then backtracking further back in time to when he had returned to Coruscant from the Outer Rim. 'It has only been close to two months...but now that I'm thinking back...'
The images were a blur but with the assistance from the Force, he started picking up sights that he hadn't noticed before. 'Fool! If you have learned anything from your experiences these past six years this should have been one of them!! This should not have continued on for so long! I was used to looking out for things like this back there...I guess I didn't expect it from here.'
The images showed him that whenever he would leave the Temple a "hidden" presence had followed him discreetly. Though he had only left the Temple a few times prior to delivering the message to the Senator he could now recall the 'shadow'. 'How could they? What has caused them to do this? After all that I have done? After all that I went through...for them!' Anger rose in the tall Knight as he sat on the bench contemplating. Slowly, ever so slowly his heart rate began to race and his breaths quicken. 'After everything! Trailing me...someone has been following me every time! Damn them! What, I'm under surveillance now?!' He was coated in a thin layer of sweat as the feelings raged through him, his face flushed. Growling he got up from his seat and stomped away from the bench nearly running someone over.
The 'someone' let out a surprised gasp at the tall Knight's near bumping into him.
Lindoro reached out to prevent the colliding at the last second, gently taking the man's arms. Only then did he notice that it was Senator Palpatine. "Senator, I'm so sorry please excuse me I was lost in thought." Lindoro stammered as he let go of the man and tried to rein in his anger and embarrassment.
Palpatine had watched it all from a distance, observing the Knight while slowly making his way over to him. He just shrugged as he waved his hand. "Think nothing of it, I too have gotten lost in thought on numerous occasions. I just happen to see you sitting over here and thought I'd stop and say hello. Were you leaving?" He smiled warmly up at the tall man. 'Something obviously has upset him. I wonder what it might have been. Ahhh a Jedi who looses their cool so easily, how entertaining!' Though his thoughts were gleeful this was not betrayed upon his face, which was reflecting calm and friendliness.
Lindoro bowed respectfully as he remembered to do so at the last moment. "Yes sir. I was just leaving. But it is good to see you again. Have you been able to talk with the Supreme Chancellor on your request of Jedi assistance on your upcoming conference?" He asked while continuing to stable his emotions, within seconds he was somewhat in control.
"Yes, yes I have and he said that it was a great idea. I gave him your name. He is supposed to be talking with Master Yoda within the next week or so. I believe on several matters actually. He said he was going to ask then. I'm sure Master Yoda will brief you after that. I am so relieved that the Chancellor agreed. And also about allowing...well requesting you. I don't know too many Jedi. Even though I just met you, I seem to feel that I can trust you. You are so much easier to talk to than the other Jedi that I've encountered." Palpatine smirked mischievously; his light blue eyes twinkled with mirth.
Lindoro actually chuckled at that and smiled widely back, relaxing some. "If you say so, Senator, though I also must admit that out of all the politicians that I've talked with you are the easiest as well."
Palpatine joined Lindoro's chuckling. "Well, I don't believe in the 'stuck-up' being part of the act of politicking. That is probably one of the reasons why I don't get along with most of the other Senators all that well."
Lindoro nodded. He understood that all to well himself. "Yes sir, I know what you mean."
"Well since you are off, guess I better get back to work. I was just stretching my legs. All those meetings can really tire a person out after a while. Fresh air and different surroundings are always refreshing." Palpatine held out his hand, which was taken by the Knight and shaken.
"Yes sir, another thing in common it looks like we have. Though the Temple has a beautiful room to go too, it's sometimes more relaxing to go to a different spot once in awhile." He smiled knowingly at the Senator.
"Well Knight D'Lockens, until next time." He paused for a second before turning and spoke up once more. "Are your lunches taken? I would like to spend time to get to know you. Well, that is if you aren't to busy with your Padawan."
Lindoro stopped himself from bowing when the Senator spoke up again. "I usually spend lunch with her...but I'm sure she would not mind if I missed one now and then. When would you like to?"
Palpatine smiled warmly. "Well let me check with my aide to see if we can do it tomorrow. I'll get in touch with the Temple to get a message to you as soon as I talk with her." Palpatine said as he withdrew a data pad from his side pocket and fingered something on it.
"No, it might take a while to go through the Temple. Here, here's my comlink coordinates." Lindoro took out his comlink and passed it over to the Senator who in turn took out his own and entered the coordinates from the Knight's onto his.
"All right then. I'll get back with you as soon as I can." He handed the Knight's comlink back to him and put his own and the data pad back into the side pocket. "Until lunch then, Knight D'Lockens."
Lindoro bowed slightly. "Until then, Senator Palpatine." The two then headed off into opposite directions.
Lindoro's train of thoughts immediately went back to his "shadow". As he stepped out of the park he opened himself to the Force again to sense where his trailer was. 'Following...yes he's there. I will find out the reason for this!' As he headed back to his speeder, a sad thought crossed his mind and dread filled him and intertwined with the anger. 'You already know why they are doing this...you knew this would happen but you kept denying it.'
He leaped in the speeder and raced off toward the Temple. The rage traveled along his nerves, causing a burning sensation throughout his body. Keeping his focus forward, he skimmed in and out of the traffic as their slowness increased his fury. Several people cursed him as he sped in and round them. At one time he nearly caused a wreck, which made him chuckle slightly as a sneer replaced the scowl on his face. Finally arriving, he checked the speeder back in.
Knight Stani was surprised to see him back so early, but the look upon the man's face and the anger that seem to flow from him made him hold his question in check. He took back the datapad from the Knight and watched him nearly stomp his way toward the turbolift. 'Now that does not look promising...wonder what happened?' Within seconds the other Knight returned and checked in his speeder as he talked in his comlink to someone. Knight Ris was not looking all that happy either.
"Master Windu, he has discovered me and is more than likely on his way to you." Ris informed as he made his way to the turbolift after nodding goodbye to Stani.
"Do nothing until I get back with you and thank you for the heads up." Master Windu's voice sounded somewhat disappointed than worried.
"As you wish, Master. I'll head off to put in the report." Ris ended the transmission and gave the turbolift his destination.
Lindoro waited for the turbolift to come to a stop and once the doors opened, he headed straight to the Council Room's door as the roaring feelings were still coursing through him.
Upon reaching the doorway leading into the room, Padawan Lionel stepped in front of him. "Sir, they're discussing a few things at the moment if you would like to wait..." He didn't get to finish as a feeling overcame him and he was gently pushed to the side.
"I will see them now!" Lindoro growled under his breath as he lowered his hand. He had come close to Force pushing the boy into the wall, but had barely held back the urge and instead gently shoved him out of the way.
Lionel was surprised and started forward once more. "But sir!" He was immediately frozen in place as he felt the Force swirl around him. He could not speak or move and his mouth was still slightly open. A chill passed through him as he felt the darkness mixed in with the light.
Lindoro kept his hand up slightly as he accessed the door with the other hand. It was locked. Growling slightly, he used the Force and over rode the lock, which caused the door to swish open. Stepping into the circular room, he freed Lionel from the Force hold.
The boy ran inside after Lindoro calling out to the Masters. "Masters, I apologize...I tried to tell him..." The Senior Padawan stammered as he was flushed with embarrassment. He never had a fellow Jedi use the Force against him in this manner except during sparring or wrestling training.
Master Yoda and Master Windu were the only Councilors in the room. They were both near the large window observing Coruscant's traffic. Master Yoda's ears had perked up at the Knight's intrusion. Master Windu had a slight frown and his eyes were staring at Lindoro as he spoke to the boy.
"We understand Lionel, we felt the Force being used against you. We can handle it from here, go ahead and finish the report that I assigned you earlier. Just let anybody else who might arrive that we are in a middle of a meeting." Mace finally glanced at the boy and gave him a reassuring nod.
Lionel bowed to the two Masters and left giving Lindoro a wide berth as he passed him and exited through the door. The door swished closed and silence followed.
Lindoro could barely hold his anger in check, he knew he just violated the Code by forcing his way in. 'I don't care! They have no right!'
Master Yoda lowered his hover chair down and over to his assigned seat as Master Windu walked back to his own.
"I take it this is important?" Mace's voice was tense, obviously upset by the interruption.
Master Yoda eyed him warily. "Disgraceful and misuse of the Force you have done. Not necessary was this. Done we would have been within minutes had you but asked the Senior Padawan." The little Master shook his head sadly.
Lindoro could have kicked himself; he had not even thought to check with Lionel. This only fueled his anger further.
"Why? Why do you have a Jedi following me? Watching over me as if I was a Padawan or worse yet a criminal?" His voice was low and harsh as the anger threatened to rip him open from within.
Yoda's ears lowered. "Discovered Knight Ris you have then?" At Lindoro's curt nod, the green Master's ears lowered even more. "Unfortunate this is." Sadness flowed from him, which only riled up the Knight even more.
"Unfortunate?! Unfortunate to have a 'shadow'? To be watched over? To ensure I don't do what? I can't believe this! After all that I have done! After what I have gone through for this Council! For the Order and for this blasted Republic!" Spitting out the latter, he waved his hand toward the window jerkily as the anger peaked. His breaths were coming out as gasps while sweat began to bead upon his brow.
"Knight D'Lockens! You will control yourself!" Master Windu's deep voice cut through the Knight's ranting like a blade.
Lindoro lowered his voice, but his anger was not released into the Force. He could not; IT would not allow him to. All he could do was hold IT in check and ride the rage as one would a roller coaster. He looked directly into the dark skinned Master's face and locked eyes with him. Very few people could maintain eye contact with Master Windu for any length of time and Lindoro was now added to that list of those that could.
"Control myself?" His voice was dripping with malice. "Should I? After this? Do tell me why I'm under surveillance?" Lindoro asked sarcastically.
Mace sighed heavily as he observed the Knight. There was no question or doubt that the Knight was upset. He didn't need the Force to tell him that even though through the Force it literally poured from the man like a busted dam. And the aura was unsettling as it was tinged with darkness.
"Knight Ris is there for both your sake and for others' safety." Mace intoned as he watched Lindoro carefully. He was hoping that this would not escalate any further. He placed his right hand on his thigh to be at the ready in case things did get out of control
"My sake? My sake and for the safety of others? Are you inquiring that I'm dangerous?!" Lindoro laughed harshly at the Master's words. 'I can't believe this! This is a bunch of crock!' But as soon as he thought it, he paused. 'Am I dangerous...? If so why did they allow my choosing of Menaria?' Fear began to lace the anger, slowly putting out the fire that roared within him.
Master Yoda closed his eyes and hmmmed quietly as he sent a calming tendril out toward the raging Knight, hoping to help soothe the man's anger and rising fear.
"If that is so...then why." His voice croaked slightly as he swallowed hard, his mouth and throat had suddenly become dry. "Why did you allow the ceremony to happen?" He finished as he kept staring into Windu's near black eyes. He felt through the Force Master Yoda's attempt to 'cool' him down; it helped a little.
Master Windu kept the eye contact as well, his face still holding the stern expression. "The Council decided that it was the right decision. Yes, some of us were hesitant at first, but we came to an agreement later. We believe that she is right for you and that together you will make an excellent Master/Padawan team." Master Windu moved slightly in his chair and only those who truly knew the Master would know that he was uneasy for he had been one of the few who was against the bonding and still questioned it. He actually glanced over at Master Yoda who in turn opened his eyes and return the look.
"Agreed the Council has, your Padawan she is and will be until she becomes a Knight." The little Master said as he turned to look back at the Knight.
Lindoro sighed as the anger finally left him. He felt tired, weak, and much older than his 40 standard years. Shoulders slumping, he sighed heavily as he bowed his head in shame and his voice hoarse with the leaving of his chaotic emotions. His slightly dampen hair fell around his face. "I am sorry Masters. It was wrong of me to barge in and question your authority and judgment."
The two Masters glanced at each other prior to looking back at the sorrowful Knight. Mace was fixing to say something but stopped when Yoda raised his three-fingered hand to halt the dark skinned man from speaking.
"Wrong it was for you to burst in and with the anger guiding you. Questioning us behind closed doors is not. Worse this could have turned out. An apology you owe young Lionel. Discuss with the Council we will about Knight Ris. Required he is no longer, if the Council agrees. Punished you will not be, but more focus you should be if not for your sake then for your Padawan's. Meditate upon this you must." Yoda said as he pointed his gimmer stick at Lindoro when the Knight looked up to meet the green Master's eyes.
"I will Masters, believe me I will. I have much to meditate on." He said subserviently.
"Then I advise you to go and do this...after you apologize to Senior Padawan Lionel." Mace ordered.
Lindoro bowed to the Masters as he saw that this was a dismissal and then walked through the doorway out into the waiting area as the doors closed behind him.
Mace and Yoda eyed each other, "Afraid this would happen I did." Yoda whispered under his breath.
Mace nodded in turn, "But it could have gone a lot worse. You were right...when you talked about Padawan Darce his anger left him. Perhaps she will be his guiding light."
"Together they are one, light and darkness. She will bring him back to the light." Yoda then hmmmed quietly as he closed his eyes in thought.