Padawan
by
Justin Jossart
Full Summary: After being Knighted almost two years before the Naboo Blockade Crisis, Obi-Wan Kenobi is a rising star within the Jedi Order. Though he has no intentions of taking on a Padawan so early into his Knighthood, an encounter with a boy that reminds him of his younger self makes him reconsider... Meanwhile, an ancient enemy, thought long dead by the Jedi, makes itself known. AU OC/Padme
DISCLAIMER: I don't own Star Wars.
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...
STAR WARS: PADAWAN
The GALACTIC REPUBLIC is crumbling. Decades of internal strife and inneffective bureaucracy have weakened the once powerful government. The JEDI ORDER, charged with keeping peace throughout the galaxy, are stretched thin. Cries for secession plague the systems of the OUTER RIM, many of whom feel ignored under the current regime. Disputes between neighboring systems have become commonplace. Rumors of a new enemy from beyond civilized space has the GALACTIC SENATE scrambling for a solution.
Meanwhile, a lone JEDI KNIGHT returns to CORUSCANT, heart of the REBUBLIC and home of the JEDI TEMPLE...
Chapter One
"The assassin's interference, while unexpected, was unable to derail my mission. King Ulfgard signed the treaty, and he and his family are safe and in good health."
Obi-Wan Kenobi finished his report, his blue eyes meeting his former Master's. It had been a short year since Obi-Wan's Knighthood, and he couldn't be more proud of his teacher. The older Jedi had finally earned his place on the Council, an honor that was long overdue, in Obi-Wan's opinion. Qui-Gon Jinn was both powerful and wise, if unorthodox in his methods.
"Good work," Master Windu said, his deep voice filling the large chamber. "For now, get some rest. We'll contact you for your next assignment."
Obi-Wan bowed, recognizing a dismissal when he heard one. Leaving the Council Chambers, he walked the Temple corridors without rush. He'd likely have at least a week before going back in the field, and the young Knight was looking forward to the break. The last year had been busy, to say the least. Back-to-back missions, including some nasty business on Albrac and Iego, had left him feeling worn and weary. If he'd known how hectic a young Knight's days were, he may have been less eager to take the Trials.
Smiling ruefully at the thought, Obi-Wan continued his stroll, making his way towards his quarters. The door to his small apartment opened as he approached; there were no need for locks in the Jedi Temple. The space was just as he left it, immaculate and spartan. Deciding that a shower was in order, the Jedi Knight removed his russet cloak and hung it by the door before heading towards the fresher.
He felt much better after a long, hot shower. Sonic cleansers were quick and got the job done, but nothing could replace a proper shower, in Obi-Wan's opinion. Hot water had a way of relaxing aching muscles that sonic waves could never imitate. Heading towards his sleeping quarters, the Knight paused by the door that led to the unused Padawan room. Qui-Gon had been encouraging him to take on an apprentice for several months now, though Obi-Wan kept insisting he wasn't ready. Teaching a Padawan was a huge commitment. He knew that he wanted to teach, eventually, but not so soon after his own apprenticeship.
Leaving his apartment, Obi-Wan made his way towards one of his favorite places in the Temple. The Garden of a Hundred Fountains was a relaxing, beautiful space. Plants and trees from all over the galaxy stood proudly, framing wide pools and bubbling fountains. Birds and other small animals had been imported to complete the illusion of a natural habitat. During the evenings, the maintenance droids dimmed the bright overhead lights to barely more than a dim glow, simulating moonlight.
The young Knight made small talk with several colleagues before making his way towards the back of the room. There, hidden behind a wall of plant life and accessible only by a small stone footpath, lay what could only be described as a small lake, constantly drained then refilled by a raging waterfall. It was Obi-Wan's favorite place to meditate. Many Jedi preferred the silence of the meditation chambers, but he was more comfortable with the roar of water and the twittering of birds.
However, it seemed that someone else had found his private getaway. When Obi-Wan strolled down the small path, pushing aside a rather large frond, he saw a teenager sitting before the lake. The Jedi noticed the boy's dark hair was closely cropped, but lacked the traditional Padawan braid, signifying him as an Initiate. Instead of the normal beige, the young man's tunic was far darker; a deep mahogany that bordered on black. Instead of sitting cross legged, like most Jedi, the boy was kneeling before the water.
Intrigued, Obi-Wan watched the boy for a moment. The Initiate was attempting to meditate, though he was obviously struggling with the task. In just the few minutes that Obi-Wan observed him, the boy resettled himself more than half a dozen times. Occasionally, he could hear the boy murmur "There is only Peace" aloud, quoting the Jedi Code. Briefly, the young Kinght wondered what could possibly have the young man so anxious, but he decided that is was none of his business.
"Regulate your breathing," Obi-Wan advised as he sat next to the boy and crossed his legs. "Breathing is the most important part of meditation. Focus on controlling your breath, letting everything else slip away." The boy nodded, his eyes still closed, and Obi-Wan could hear his breaths even out. After a few minutes, he continued. "Now, stay focused on your breathing, but turn your attention to the Force as it flows through your body. It should feel like a warm blanket, surrounding you, connecting you to every living thing. Can you feel it?"
"I think so," the boy said. His voice was tinged with doubt. "But... it doesn't feel like a blanket... more like a raging fire that's constantly threatening to get out of control. Is that normal?"
Obi-Wan quirked a brow. He'd never heard the Force described as such. "We all experience the Force differently. There's no right or wrong way to connect with it."
"Except in anger or fear," the boy said with a wry grin. "Or passion."
"Not necessarily. We all feel these emotions, even the Council," Obi-Wan contended. "Fear or anger, if used properly, can help you survive. You may feel them, even use them, but don't let them rule you. The key is to recognize them, accept them as they come. Then, once they've served their purpose, release those negative emotions into the Force. Never let them fester or cloud your judgment."
"I've never heard anyone put it that way. Master Yoda says that touching the Force in anger can lead to the Dark Side."
"Master Yoda is quite right, anger and hatred, passion and fear can lead to the Dark Side. However, those words are meant for an Initiate, who lacks the experience and training to properly use and control his emotions. As you get older, you'll be better able to master your fellings, rather than letting them master you."
"I don't know if I'll ever be able to control myself like a Jedi should," the boy replied honestly. "It's a constant struggle to keep the flames under control. Sometimes, I just feel tired and overwhelmed."
"We all feel that way from time to time. The life of a Jedi is not an easy one," Obi-Wan said. He looked to the boy, surprised to see the Initiate studying him earnestly. What stunned the young Knight the most was the boy's eyes. His irises mimicked the flames he'd described, a deep burnt orange close to the pupils that faded to gold at the edges. He'd never seen their like, especially on a human.
The boy noticed his brief fixation, looking away quickly. "I should go. Thank you for the advice." Before Obi-Wan could say anything, the young man had scrambled to his feet and retreated down the stone walkway that led to the rest of the Temple.
Obi-Wan frowned, all thoughts of meditation fleeing his mind. What had that been about?
For the next several days, the young Knight rested and recuperated from his long string of missions. His trip to the Healers confirmed that he was in perfect health, though his muscles still ached with tension. He spent the days in the training rooms or meditating in the Garden. However, his thoughts kept drifting to the young Initiate. The boy's description of the Force was unique, and slightly worrisome. Even in the heat of battle, Obi-Wan would never have described his connection to the Force as one requiring constant control to keep in check. He'd thought of checking the young man's files, but he'd failed to catch the Initiate's name, making such inquiries impossible.
Eventually, the Knight's curiosity drove him to seek out Master Yoda. The Grandmaster oversaw much of an Initiate's training. If anyone would have information about the boy, it would be him. Obi-Wan found the elderly Master engaging a group of Younglings, and he couldn't help but smile as he watched the children try and fail to deflect blaster bolts with practice sabers. He'd earned many welts himself at that age.
"That's enough, children! A visitor, we have," Yoda called, ending the training session. The Younglings deactivated their practice sabers and removed their helmets. Many stared at the Knight expectantly. The Grandmaster sent the children on their way before making his way to Obi-Wan's side.
"You didn't have to dismiss your class for my sake, Master," Obi-Wan said guiltily. He hated to think that the children were missing out on valuable instruction due to his curiosity.
The Master shook his head. "Worry not. Almost over, the class was." Obi-Wan nodded, his guilt slightly eased. "A question for me, you had."
"Yes. I ran into an Initiate the other day," Obi-Wan replied. "He was having trouble meditating. When I tried to help him, he described the Force in a way I've never heard of. He called it a 'raging inferno' that needed to be kept under control."
The older Jedi nodded. "Speak of Dak Kendros, you do."
"So you knew about him? About his... unique... connection to the Force?" Obi-Wan was surprised. He'd found his conversation with the boy concerning.
"I did," Yoda replied solemnly. "Watched his progress carefully, I have."
"Why?"
"Check his records, you will. There, your answers you will find." Obi-Wan was about to question the Master further, but another batch of Younglings, older than the last, started filing in. Bowing, he left the classroom. He'd gone to Yoda looking for answers, but instead only found more questions. At least he now had a name.
Upon returning to his rooms, Obi-Wan went immediately to his terminal and logged into the Temple Records. Initiate Records were made available to all Knights and Masters for the purpose of selecting potential Padawan learners. While he had no intention of taking a Padawan, he scrolled through the Initiate Records, searching for the young man he'd met.
Dak Kendros's record didn't tell him much. Apparently, the boy was taken in by the Order when he was two years old. A little older than most, but not completely unheard of. His parents had been refugees to Coruscant from the Kothraci System. Obi-Wan had never heard of the planet, nor met anyone who claimed to be from there.
The boy's marks were good, exceptional even, across the board, and his saber instructor labeled the boy as a 'true natural talent'. Frowning, Obi-Wan looked at the boy's birth date. It appeared that Dak was already nearing his fifteenth birthday. He was merely weeks away from being sent to the Jedi Service Corps. Why would such a promising young student not have a master by now? He had no black marks on his records, he seemed relatively bright, took instruction well, and was exceedingly polite. There seemed to be no reason for him to not have a Master.
Obi-Wan ran a hand through his auburn hair. There had to be something... Something that the prospective Masters knew or found lacking about the boy. Perhaps his origins were the key. After running quick searches on both parents and coming up with nothing, Obi-Wan took a closer look at Kothrac itself. To his surprise, the planet didn't show up on any of his Holonet searches. Sighing, Obi-Wan decided that he'd have to check the Grand Archives to learn more about Dak's home world. A short walk later, and the Jedi Knight was in the Archives, searching their comprehensive databases. The Temple Archives had a lot to say about Kothrac... and none of it was good. Everything made much more sense to Obi-Wan now. The boy's connection to the Force, his inability to find a Master, it all came back to where he'd been born.
The Kothraci system had never been a member of the Republic. It lay beyond the Outer Rim, deep within ancient Sith Space. According to the records, the planet was saturated in the Dark Side, home of one of the nigh-forgotten Sith Temples. Though the Sith had been defeated millennia ago, the planet apparently still adhered to their ancient ways, where the strong ruled and the weak were subjugated. The planet was ruled by a powerful Force user who bent the populace to his will. Apparently, thirteen years ago, Kothrac was home to a massive rebellion. Billions of citizens and slaves rose against their masters... and were massacred. Barely any of the rebels managed to escape the slaughter. Dak's parents were apparently some of the lucky few. The Archive strongly recommended to stay away from Kothrac; Jedi were not welcome there.
Obi-Wan mused over what he had learned. He briefly wondered why the Jedi hadn't done something about the planet. Dak's home world was a breeding ground for the Dark Side, giving birth to powerful Force users gifted in its seductive power. If this King Noctis ever managed to locate the Sith Holocrons no doubt hidden in their forgotten temples, they could possibly see a re-emergence of the Sith Empire. The Kothraci and their king were a dangerous potential threat to the Republic.
Even more disturbing, it appeared that the records on hand were over a decade old. Neither Jedi nor Republic Ambassador had stepped foot on the planet since long before the rebellion; the information they had was courtesy of refugees, like Dak Kendros's parents.
In Obi-Wan's opinion, young Kendros was dangerous. The boy was practically breed to wield the Dark Side of the Force. While many Force users could be tempted by the Dark Side, Dak was conceived in it, had been born in its tempestuous embrace. Obi-Wan could only imagine how it burned within the Initiate, fighting to dominate the young man's discipline. A single moment of carelessness, and the inferno within would consume him. How had he lasted this long at the Temple? The Council was apparently aware of the young man's origins. Were they that careless? Did they know something about the young man that eluded him?
Obi-Wan decided he'd bring his findings to their attention.
"Obi-Wan! To what do I owe this pleasant surprise?" Qui-Gon smiled widely as his former apprentice entered his chambers.
"I needed your council, Master."
Qui-Gon frowned. "We've been over this, Obi-Wan. I'm no longer your Master. You may call me by my name."
"Yes, Mas... Qui-Gon," Obi-Wan replied, catching himself. He'd spent almost a decade calling the older Jedi 'Master.' Some habits were hard to break.
"Sit down," The Jedi Master ordered. "I'll make some tea."
Obi-Wan did as he was bid, seating himself on the comfortable sofa. He listened to Qui-Gon bustling in the kitchen, trying to discipline himself to remain patient. Initiate Kendros wasn't going to succumb to the Dark Side in the time it took his former Master to brew a pot of tea, after all.
Finally, Qui-Gon returned, handing him a cup before settling himself into an armchair. "What can I help you with?"
The Jedi Knight set his tea on a nearby table, leaning forward to look Qui-Gon in the eyes. "Master, I... I'm concerned about one of the Temple's Initiates." Qui-Gon's brow raised, but he nodded for Obi-Wan to continue. Obi-Wan told his former teacher the entire tale, from meeting the Initiate in the Garden to discovering the boy's records, to finally his revelations in the Grand Archives.
"Maste... Qui-Gon, the boy could be dangerous," Obi-Wan finished. "One slip, and the Dark Side would consume him."
"The same could be said for any Jedi," Qui-Gon replied, sipping his tea. The younger Jedi looked to disagree, but was silenced by the Master's raised hand. "The Council knows of Dak's struggles. His instructors have already made us well aware of his faults. The young man's future is clouded, difficult to read, but we don't feel darkness within him, only restrained passion."
"There is no passion," Obi-Wan retorted, quoting the Code.
"Dak is strong in the Force. He has been raised as a Jedi. His mental fortitude and discipline are to be commended," Qui-Gon scolded. "He has never given the Council reason to regret training him."
"Why was he trained to begin with? Surely the Council knew he may be a future risk."
"The decision to train Kendros was before my time on the Council, as you well know. However, there were extenuating circumstances. Dak's parents were refugees from the Kothraci System. They brought with them important information about current politics in the sector once ruled by the Sith. His parents were users of the Dark Side themselves, and ranked quite highly in the Kothraci Hierarchy before the rebellion. However, they chose the wrong side, and nearly paid for it with their lives. Realizing that they had nowhere else to turn, they came to the Jedi. Everything we know about the sector is thanks to them. In return, we agreed to train their son. The Kendros were going to return to Kothrac and finish what they started, and attempt to assassinate their tyrannical king." Qui-Gon was silent for a moment. "We never heard from them again. We have to assume that they failed in their mission."
"Why did they leave their son with the Jedi? Surely there was somewhere else he could be safe from Noctis."
"I'm not so sure. According to them, Noctis had a stranglehold on the entire system and had slaughtered billions. Punishing his parents by killing their son would hardly be beyond him."
"I find it difficult to imagine that they would care for their son's safety. After all, you said yourself that they wielded the Dark Side."
"On the contrary, I'd find it likely that they were extremely attached Dak, and were terrified of losing him." Qui-Gon replied. "They were so terrified that they'd send him to be trained as a Jedi before letting him die. Such is the nature of the Dark Side. It encourages attachments. Often for selfish reasons, but the attachment still exists."
"I suppose," Obi-Wan allowed. "But I guess it doesn't matter. The boy is set to join the Service Corps within the month."
"Truly tragic. He shows much promise," Qui-Gon remarked. "However, he'll have one final chance to find a Master this evening in the Initiate Tournament."
"Perhaps. About Kothrac and this King Noctis. Why haven't the Jedi eliminated such a substantial threat to the Republic?"
"The Jedi are not assassins," the Jedi Master replied, his tone icy. "If and when Noctis makes a move against the Republic, he'll be dealt with. Until then, he is beyond our reach."
"I understand that," Obi-Wan contended. "But still, an army of Dark Force Users at our doorstep leaves me uncomfortable."
"The Council shares your concerns, Obi-Wan. We're monitoring the situation carefully." The older Jedi smiled. "Enough of these troubling topics. Tell me, how are you enjoying Knighthood?"
Realizing he wouldn't get any more information from his mentor, Obi-Wan allowed the conversation to be redirected. They spoke at length about the responsibilities of Knighthood, the missions he'd undertaken, and Qui-Gon's frustrations with being on the Council.
"Being on the Council is a great honor," he had mused. "However, it is stifling. I rarely leave the Temple anymore, and when I do, it's to meet with a Senator or some other politician."
Obi-Wan grinned wryly. "But Master, I know how much you like politicians."
"Indeed," Qui-Gon replied with a chuckle. The older Jedi glanced towards the clock on his desk. "As much as I hate to cut our conversation short, I really do have to go. The tournament is about to start, and I'm expected to be there."
"Well, have fun with that," The young Knight replied, still grinning. He felt much better after an afternoon with his former Master. Something about Qui-Gon's presence soothed the worries of those around him.
The older man stroked his beard thoughtfully. "You should join me."
"We've been over this. I'm not ready to teach," Obi-Wan said.
"It would give you a chance to observe young Dak Kendros in action." Obi-Wan had to concede Qui-Gon's point. Kendros would undoubtedly be in the tournament, and he'd likely be desperate. It was essentially his last chance of becoming a Padawan before being sent to the Service Corps. While technically the Service Corps was said to be just as honorable as becoming a fully-fledged Jedi, Obi-Wan knew better. It was a place for washouts, those unable to make the cut. Dak's peers probably already teased the young man about his lack of a Master. Obi-Wan knew from experience that being denied apprenticeship to become a farmer was not a desirable thing. In any case, Obi-Wan would be able to get a better read of how the young man would compose himself under pressure. Would Dak succumb and fight too aggressively, like he once had? Would he tap into the Dark Side in his desperation?
"Fine," Obi-Wan finally said. "Let's go watch the tournament."
The tournament was just as Obi-Wan remembered it. Pairs of Initiates would enter a large training area littered with obstacles, while prospective Masters, or curious Jedi such as himself, could watch the bouts from the sidelines. There were only a few Jedi present, apart from several Council members.
"Shan-Tor, it's good to see you old friend," Obi-Wan greeted a large Togruta. He was engaged with a female Jedi that Obi-Wan didn't know. He couldn't help but notice the blonde's beauty.
"Obi-Wan!" The boisterous man cried with a large smile. "I didn't expect to see you here. Finally decided to cave to Master Jinn's needling?"
"Not quite," Obi-Wan replied, grinning ruefully. "I found myself curious."
"So this is the infamous Obi-Wan Kenobi?" The blonde woman asked.
"How rude of me! Obi-Wan, this is my good friend Siri Tachi. Siri, meet Obi-Wan Kenobi."
"It's a pleasure," Siri said, her beautiful face splitting into a wide smile.
Obi-Wan returned her grin. "The pleasure is all mine, milady."
"Such manners! You'd do well to learn a thing or two, Tor." She turned back to Obi-Wan. "Tor speaks of you often. Is it true that you saved his life on the moons of Iego?"
Obi-Wan rolled his eyes. "I don't know about that. We saved each other, more like."
The blonde smiled brightly. "Not to hear Tor speak of it! I've also heard that the Angels there were very grateful for your assistance," she teased.
Obi-Wan blushed. "Nothing happened, though not for a lack of effort on their part! The pirates were kidnapping them by the dozen to sell into slavery. They were quite grateful to see the last of the criminals."
"I still don't know why you turned them down! Three beautiful women, including the Princess herself?" Shan-Tor shook his head. "I still can't believe it."
"The Code..."
"Forbids attachment. A night of intimacy with a woman you're unlikely to meet again is not breaking the Code."
"You know how I feel about it," Obi-Wan replied curtly.
"I think half the Temple is disappointed with your stance, Obi-Wan," the Togruta replied looking towards Siri. "Obi-Wan here believes that he's unable to become intimate with a woman without getting attached."
"I told you about Mandalore," the young Knight defended. "I won't let such a thing happen again."
"If only Shan-Tor had your self control." Siri chimed in.
"And you wonder why I never introduced you two before!" the Togruta chuckled with good humor. "No one can hope to live up to the shining example of the great Obi-Wan Kenobi!"
Obi-Wan rolled his eyes at the teasing, but let it pass as Master Windu entered the Training Room followed by two Initiates. The room went silent as the Council Member raised his voice. "The Initiate Tournament will now begin! The rules are simple. Each match will continue until one contender acquires three points, or either Initiate yields. A lightsaber strike to an appendage is one point, a strike to the torso is two points, and a strike to the head or neck is three points. The obstacles may be used however the contender sees fit, and striking an opponent with an obstacle, or an unarmed strike, is worth one point, regardless of its location. If I halt or pause the match, both contenders will stop immediately.
"Our first match will be Kane Trioc against Shas-Wi. You may begin on my mark." The dark-skinned Jedi looked to both Initiates to assure their readiness. "Begin!" The Master took a few steps backwards as the two Initiates ignited their sabers and clashed against another.
"The Twi-Lek is good," Obi-Wan said after a moment. "She's very graceful."
"Yes, but she lacks power behind her strikes," Shan-Tor replied.
"It's a lightsaber. Is power really an issue?" Siri defended. To her dismay, a punishing series of blows crumpled the girl's defenses, earning her a blow to her abdomen.
The Togruta smiled. "Of course it does, like young Kane just exemplified. Without strength, her defense and grace was thrown to the side like it was nothing."
"In a lightsaber match," the blonde defended. "How many life or death saber matches can she really expect in her career?"
More than you might think, Obi-Wan thought sourly. If what he feared came to pass, then Initiates like this Twi-Lek would be the first to fall to the Sith. It dismayed him to think that the Jedi Order, like Siri, held lightsaber combat in such low esteem. If the Sith did return, then many Jedi would be woefully unprepared to battle their ancient foes.
Obi-Wan watched the matches, commenting on them with Shan-Tor and his new, blonde acquaintance. As each pair of Initiates entered, he'd study them both carefully, hoping that one of them would be Dak. Finally, his patience was rewarded as the ebony-haired boy stepped through the doors, following a rather large Kel Dor. For a moment, the boy's orange gaze met Obi-Wan's. The Knight felt the Force reaching out to him, but before he could ascertain its meaning the boy looked away.
"The next match will be between Dak Kendros and Plen Kar. You may begin on my mark," Mace called from the center of the arena. Plen gripped his practice saber tightly, while Dak fell into a stance that Obi-Wan knew all too well. "Begin!"
"Soresu?" Siri asked, stunned. Obi-Wan could understand her surprise, as he was just as shocked. Most of the Initiates had used Form I, or Shi-Cho. It was the first form of lightsaber combat that an Initiate learned. Many of them had attached moves or techniques from other forms, but none had actually used another form altogether. Plen Kar, for example, wielded his lightsaber in the traditional Shi-Cho manner. Dak, however, had fallen completely into Form IV, his lightsaber close to his body, using wide sweeps and circular motions to defend against the Kel Dor's offensive.
"He's very talented. Who's his Master?" Siri wondered aloud.
Shan-Tor shook his head. "He doesn't have one."
"I find that hard to believe," she replied. "He's a natural. I highly doubt any of these Initiates can break through that defense. I may have to pull his files."
"I'll save you the trouble, as I did the same after the last Tournament." The Togruta was frowning. "His scores are exemplary, as is his midi-chlorian count."
"Then why hasn't he been chosen?"
"He's from the Kothraci System," Tor replied, his frown growing. Noting the woman's confusion, he continued. "It's a planet saturated in the Dark Side, deep in old Sith Space."
"I see," the blonde replied thoughtfully.
"The boy is dangerous," Tor snarled. "I'll be glad to see the last of him. Let him join the Service Corps, where he can't cause any trouble."
Obi-Wan was stunned at his friend's reaction. To hear his own concerns mirrored from his friend made him realize how uncharitable he must have sounded when speaking with Qui-Gon earlier. He felt a twinge of guilt deep in his gut. Looking around the room, he noticed many of the older Jedi were giving Dak looks similar to the one marring Shan-Tor's face. "Perhaps not. Master Jinn says the boy's discipline is iron-clad."
Shan-Tor's eyes widened. "Surely you can't be suggesting that a Kothraci is worthy of becoming a Padawan?"
"Why not? He was raised in the Temple, like the other Initiates," Obi-Wan defended, to even his own surprise. Had he not mimicked Tor just hours before? Ignoring Shan-Tor's scoff of disbelief, Obi-Wan focused his attention on the young Initiate. He was already up one point to zero, courtesy of his stone wall defense and a backhand to the side of the Kel Dor's head. As Obi-Wan watched, Dak back stepped a crushing blow from Plen, then swapped stances, flowing easily into a leaping strike, twirling in a full circle before his bright blue practice blade met Plen Kar's hasty defense.
"Ataru as well?" Siri gasped. Sure enough, Dak had his opponent on the defensive with a graceful set of acrobatic blows. However, unlike Shas-Wi, the Twi-Lek from the first match, his strikes had force behind them. The attacks pummeled Plen Kar's saber, before finally the Kel Dor's weapon went spinning from his hand, deactivating as it skittered along the floor. Dak calmly held his practice blade to his opponent's throat.
"Yield," he said, his voice echoing throughout the chamber. "I don't want to hurt you."
After a long moment, Plen finally conceded. "I... surrender." Though the young Kel Dor's voice was altered significantly by his re-breather, Obi-Wan could hear the defeat in his tone. Dak immediately deactivated his saber before calling Plen's fallen one to his hand. With a small bow, the Kothraci returned his opponent's weapon before shaking his hand.
"The match is over. The final score is one point to zero. Dak Kendros advances." Mace Windu said, stepping forward. Both Initiates bowed to the Jedi Master before disappearing through the door.
"That was an impressive display," Siri remarked pointedly.
"I never said the boy was untalented," Shan-Tor defended. "In fact, his skill with a blade is what worries me most about him. If he turned..."
"I'm most impressed by his grace and humility in victory," Obi-Wan commented, cutting his friend off. "He didn't have to give Plen Kar the chance to surrender. He could have easily taken the opportunity to strike his opponent and end the match."
"Devious, is what I'd call it," the Togruta replied darkly. "He's very good at hiding his true nature." After a moment, the Togruta smiled. "Though I imagine Toren will be disappointed in his new Padawan's display. He'll have a lot of work to do with Plen, you mark my words."
Obi-Wan sighed heavily, exasperated at his friend's stubbornness. However, as he glanced around the room, he could see many of his fellow Jedi were muttering to each other. How could anyone have watched that performance and still think the boy unworthy of training? He'd been watching carefully, and not once had he felt any sense of darkness from Dak. Reaching out to the Force, the young Knight could feel the unease and suspicion clouding the room... except from the Council members. His blue eyes focused on Master Yoda and the old Jedi seemed... sad as he conversed with Qui-Gon.
Before he knew what he was doing, Obi-Wan walked towards the Masters. They looked at him expectantly as he approached. "Master, I wish to apologize," he said, bowing to Qui-Gon. "I was wrong to question the Council's judgment in training Dak Kendros."
His former mentor clasped his shoulder. "It's alright, Obi-Wan. Your concerns were justified, though I'm glad that you allow your mind to be changed when new evidence presents itself. I just wish others could see Dak's potential."
"Easy to admit one's mistakes, it is not," Yoda acknowledged. "Forgiven, you are."
"It would be a shame to see him sent to the Service Corps," Obi-Wan replied. "Are you sure that no one will apprentice him?"
"Even the Jedi have their prejudices," Qui-Gon replied.
Yoda nodded. "Run deep, the scars of the Sith do. Untrained, Kendros will likely be."
Obi-Wan closed his eyes in frustration. "I'd like to take Dak as my Padawan Learner," he said, surprising himself.
The Grandmaster frowned. "In haste, such a decision should not be made. A large commitment a Padawan is."
"Just this morning you told me you weren't ready to train a Padawan," Qui-Gon agreed. "Your concern over the boy's future shouldn't push you towards something you might regret."
"Much training, Dak Kendros will need," Yoda continued. "Temper the flames of the Dark Side, he must. Ready for such a responsibility, are you?" Obi-Wan didn't have an answer. He was already regretting his declaration. Not because of the boy, but because of himself. He doubted he had the experience to successfully train such a difficult student.
"Watch the Tournament," Qui-Gon advised. "Speak with the boy. Meditate on the decision before committing."
"If feel the same, you do, consider your request, the Council will."
Obi-Wan Kenobi sat cross-legged before the lake in the Garden of a Hundred Fountains. He'd been meditating for hours about Dak Kendros, yet he was still unsure of what to do. On the one hand, he could sense the boy's potential. The Force was strong in the young Kothraci, and his prodigious talent with a lightsaber was far beyond that of his peers. Kendros had won the tournament with ease; none of his opponents had landed so much as a single blow. Afterwards, Obi-Wan had congratulated the boy. For a moment, he had seemed hopeful, but that hope died once he realized that the Knight hadn't come with an offer to train him. Dak had been polite, though resigned and distant.
Obi-Wan frowned. He truly felt sorry for the Initiate, but he still worried that he was unready to train a Padawan, especially one so unique. Training Dak would require a lot of patience, knowledge, and wisdom. While Obi-Wan felt that he had the patience, he lacked any sort of experience with the Dark Side. He'd never truly been tempted by its seductive power; how could he relate to a student that had to fight temptation every time he touched the Force? What wisdom could he grant if Dak started to slip?
Still unsure of what decision he'd make, Obi-Wan opened his eyes as he felt someone else touch the Force nearby. Across the pool, he could make out none other than Dak Kendros. The boy was kneeling much as he had when Obi-Wan had first met him. For a time, he watched the Initiate. He smiled as he watched Dak focus his breathing like the Knight had shown him. In that moment, he knew what the correct path was. His decision made, Obi-Wan decided to request an audience with the High Council.
Typing a message to both Master Windu and Master Yoda, all Obi-Wan could do now was wait. Heading towards his apartment to satisfy his rumbling stomach, he almost jumped in surprise when his com-link went off, acknowledging his request and granting him an audience within the hour. The Knight was frankly surprised at the speed the Council had allowed an audience. Though, after considering it for a moment, he shouldn't be. The Council was likely fielding requests from several Knights and Masters to take on Padawans after the tournament.
Quickly finishing his meal, Obi-Wan prepared himself for his meeting with the Masters. He doubted that everyone on the Council would be as sympathetic towards Kendros as Yoda and Qui-Gon, so he'd best have a defense prepared.
He waited patiently outside the Council chambers, still going over his request in his head. It would be the first time that he'd have to present an argument before them, and he was more than a little nervous. Usually, his interactions with the Council were briefings and debriefings before and after missions.
"You may enter, Obi-Wan," called Master Windu from within. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, the young Knight pushed open the large doors and strode towards the center of the room. The Council was seated in high backed chairs around him. He noticed for the first time how vulnerable the position was. He tried to project confidence and proficiency.
"Masters," he said, bowing.
"Knight Kenobi," Mace replied, nodding his head. "What business do you bring before us?"
"I would like to take on a Padawan Learner," Obi-Wan replied respectfully. "Dak Kendros showed great skill and discipline in the Tournament. He has much promise."
Master Windu leaned backwards, settling in his chair. The Councilor frowned slightly, his brow furrowing. "And you believe yourself ready for such a commitment?"
"I do."
Ki-Adi-Mundi chimed in on Obi-Wan's left. "We've suggested you take a Padawan for weeks now, yet you've claimed yourself unready for just as long. What has changed?" The Cerean was studying him intently, stroking his long, white beard.
"I don't think anything has changed, other than confidence in myself," Obi-Wan replied honestly. "I think every new Knight is intimidated by taking on his or her first Padawan. However, members of the Council have made it clear to me that they believe me ready, and after some introspection, I agree."
"Not easy to train, Kendros will be," Yoda remarked.
"Perhaps you should take on an easier student for your first apprentice," Ki-Adi-Mundi agreed. "We have many fine Initiates available."
Obi-Wan shook his head. "Respectfully, Masters, I disagree. It was Dak Kendros who gave me the confidence I needed to make this request in the first place."
"How so?" Mace inquired, his brow raised.
The Knight hesitated for a moment, trying to gather his thoughts. "I first met Dak almost a week ago. He was struggling to find his center during his meditation. I gave him some advice, as any Knight would." Mace nodded his agreement, gesturing for Obi-Wan to continue. "As I meditated today over the decision to take him as my student, I could feel Dak in the force. He had taken my advice to heart and was meditating as I showed him." Obi-Wan paused. "I know it doesn't seem like much, but that's when I knew beyond a doubt that I could train him. It may be a difficult task, but I feel myself up to the challenge." The Council remained silent after his declaration, communicating with each other through the Bond they shared. Finally, Qui-Gon, who'd been conspicuously quiet throughout the proceedings, spoke out.
"Were it any other Initiate, would we be so hesitant to grant Obi-Wan's request?" the Master asked, looking towards his colleagues in turn. "These meetings are normally nothing more than a formality. We have a bright, competent young Knight offering to train a bright, competent Initiate. I don't understand why we're debating."
"You know very well that Dak Kendros is a special case," Master Windu replied.
"Why? He's never been anything but disciplined and humble. He has all the traits any Master could ask for."
"Clouded, the boy's future is," Yoda said softly, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. "Difficult to read."
"He's dangerous," Mace replied, losing patience.
"Not necessarily," Qui-Gon contested. "He's just a boy."
"A boy who is closely tied to the Dark Side of the Force," Ki-Adi-Mundi said. "We all have felt it within him, ever since he came to us."
"Then why bother to train him at all?" Plo Koon asked. Qui-Gon seemed surprised at the unexpected ally. "If the Council was so concerned with his future, then we shouldn't have raised him as a Jedi."
Shaak Ti leaned forward. "But we did raise him as a Jedi. If we had the confidence to train him in the Temple among the Younglings and Initiates, then we should have the confidence to allow him to continue his training as a Padawan. To do otherwise would make us hypocrites." She looked to Obi-Wan. "Knight Kenobi is a gifted Jedi and steadfast in the Light Side of the Force. We granted him Knighthood at such a young age for just those reasons. He's never given us reason to doubt him, and we do him a disservice by doubting him now. He says he can train Dak to be a Jedi Knight, and I believe him."
Several other Council members nodded. Mace shared an concerned look with Ki-Adi-Mundi, quickly realizing that he was outnumbered. "Very well," he said. "Do as you will."
"Agree to your request, the Council does," Master Yoda said to Obi-Wan. "Your Padawan, Dak Kendros will be."