Shadows of the Past
Adventures of Ana and Owen: New Young Jedi Knights
Book 3
By obi's girl
Summary: After deciding to return to the Academy as a Jedi trainee Ana Solo has a revelation concerning her past and where she came from. But before she can deal with her past, Ana is distracted in the present by her former love, Kyp Durron and a new suitor, a friend of Astra's, Kailin Sun.
Rating: PG-13
Feed back: Yes.
Disclaimer: The characters of Luke Skywalker, Mara Jade, Han Solo, Leia Solo, Qui-Gon Jinn, are the sole property of the almighty, George Lucas. No infringement is intended. The characters of Ana Solo, Owen Solo, Coryn "Wylie" Kuzan, Astra Sule, Veniqua, Dray Sun, Kailin Sun, and Aiden Sule belong to obi's girl. Manipulation of these characters in any way discredit the author's rights. These are my original creations that I do not want anybody to touch them in any way. Thank you.
Ana Solo decided if she was to train she wouldn't feel as bad. She was wrong. Though a bit premature, the Jedi still saw training as a last result which was sort of like punishment at the wrong time. Her Uncle Luke and Astra were surprised when she made the announcement. Astra couldn't believe it. Her best friend was training to be a Jedi and finally, they could bond over things such as the Force and doing good to help people.
Only, that's what she was doing before she decided to train. She helped people. With her premonitions, she was able to help people without being a Jedi Knight. It seemed bizarre. Ana packed the last of her belongings as Owen came in. She didn't think she'd get to see him before she left.
Yavin. Yes, Yavin was perfectly safe now. Apparently, the minute they left the planet, the tremors stopped entirely. Finally, Owen began to say what we came to say. "I'm sorry I wasn't there," he said. "Were they hard on you?"
Ana smiled. "Things were a bit harsh in the beginning, but cooled down." she paused. "You don't have apologize. You were right not to come. I was wrong to take advantage of our relationship."
"I'm still sorry."
Ana turned to him. "Owen, I'm going back to Yavin. I'm going to train."
He frowned. "You shouldn't." Owen retorted, standing up. He ran his fingers through his auburn hair. "Yavin shouldn't be your last resort because your not allowed to see Kyp anymore."
She nodded no. "Kyp's not coming with me. I mean, he will head back eventually, but he's not coming with me. Uncle Luke and Astra are."
Owen turned to her. "Don't punish yourself, Ana. The hurt will only hurt some more, but you can't pretend to be something that you're not."
Ana was silent as their uncle Luke came in. He was shocked to see Owen, but didn't show it. The Jedi smiled at the two then turned his gaze to Ana. "When you're ready, we can leave."
Once again, Ana glanced at Owen. He still felt that she was giving up then turned back to Luke. "I'm ready when you are."
Luke smiled again. "Ana, you have no idea how proud I am." he paused. "Are you sure about this?"
Her smile lessened but she still felt confident. "I'm sure."
He nodded his head to Owen, then left with Ana at his back. She turned sadly to her brother and managed a couragable "I have to do this" smile. Owen didn't smile as Ana turned and followed her Uncle Luke.
It seemed alien to Ana. As she met Astra at the shuttle, the princess smiled and handed her a spare lightsabre. "I don't know if it works okay. You might have to play the settings a bit."
Ana glanced at Luke then hugged the girl. "You are going to be my roommate at the temple, right?"
"It wouldn't be real if I wasn't."
**
For the most part, Ana toyed with the sabre Astra gave her during the trip. She placed the crystals Obi-Wan gave her into the weapon and began to adjust the settings as Astra suggested. Ana lightly smiled to herself. It felt exhilarating to work on something that wasn't mechanical in the computer sense. Finally, she pressed the "on" button and weapon came alive. Its blade hissed and whizzed to life. She waved it around a couple of times in a circular motion.
"Care to try that out?" a voice said.
Ana looked up. It was Luke. He smiled almost devilishly as Ana quickly turned the sabre off. "I'm not sure that's a good idea." she replied.
Still, the devilish grin on Luke's face didn't disappear and he began to reach for his own saber. The green blade sprung to life as Ana nodded it wasn't a good idea but ignited her sabre anyway. "First lesson: Never let your guard down." he instructed, abruptly hitting Ana's blade. She countered the attack but only a few minutes too late. "Second: Always maintain your focus. Your focus determines your reality." he paused. "I hit the mid-section of your sabre. Where will I strike next?"
Ana was silent. So many thoughts filled her mind that she shut off her sabre. Luke nodded okay in agreement. "We'll take this up another time when you're more familiar with what to do." Luke said. The Jedi Master shut off his sabre clipped it to his belt and returned to the cockpit.
After Ana put away her lightsabre, she slept. It would be a long trip to Yavin and she'd need all her energy and strength to train.
**
The minute Ana drifted to sleep she was pulled into a vision. Once again, she thought the timing was bad but dismissed it. She looked around herself. The place she was in seemed familiar, yet unfamiliar. Ana scanned the terrain, looking the appearance of either Qui-Gon Jinn or a young Obi-Wan Kanobi. In the distance, she could make out a large man. She knew who it was and why he called. Qui-Gon Jinn wanted to congratulate her for having the courage to train. Ana smiled tiredly at him.
Ana. Qui-Gon began as he lightly hugged her. I am very proud of you. But, may I give you some advice?
Ana nodded okay as he let her go. "Sure. Why not? I almost got my ass kicked anyway by my uncle."
Qui-Gon was quiet. He stared at the girl, looking for a sense of sarcasm or partial anger. What he found was a mixture of both but dismissed it because he knew some frustration wasn't unusual. A large fallen tree stump appeared as they sat on it. The Jedi Master paced himself. I am proud of you, Ana. More proud than you'll ever know. He paused. However, I know this change in attitude has something to do with losing a personal battle.
She nodded yes as Jinn haunched back. The girl struggled to find the right words without having offended the Jedi Maser. Finally, Ana opened her mouth. "I'm not allowed to see Kyp anymore." she paused. "I thought if I trained, losing Kyp wouldn't hurt so much."
Jinn huffed. Ana, this is very dangerous. Using training as an excuse to runaway from your problems will hurt not only you but also those that are excited about your decision.
Ana dropped her head. "I know. But that's not my only reason why I'm doing this." she stood up, straightened her vest and began to pace around. Finally, Ana turned back to him with a more serious face, which meant her feelings on the subject were personal. "It's time. These last couple of days - mainly on Yavin - I had time to reflect on where my life was going."
"And I think you'll agree with me on this. When you helped me, held my hand, convinced me I could connect with the Force, I believed you." She shrugged her shoulders. "I still do."
Ana, what I did was only enhance what was already there. Qui-Gon paused. You've always had the power inside of you. You were simply scared to summon it. The Force has always been strong with you, even when you were a child.
He stood up. You have the right idea, Ana. I just hope you won't drain your sorrows in it. Jinn paused and smiled. May the Force be with you and left.
**
Some odd days later, the Jedi arrived back on Yavin. Ana came out from the back as Luke piloted the shuttle towards the surface. Astra nodded at Ana as the girl strapped herself in. A tremendous outlook of the Massassai Temple filled the screen. Though it suffered through many violent aftershocks, the temple still managed to maintain it's strong body. As the Jedi maneuvered towards the surface, Ana grabbed her duffel bag.
Ana Solo waited by the door as the shuttle's ramp extended to the ground. Astra came from the cockpit, followed by Luke, whom was wearing his black cloak. When Ana was younger, she and Owen labeled the cloak "The Robe of a Jedi Master."
Owen. When she talked to him, Ana felt he was upset with her and left before she could find out why. She turned to Luke. Half of the trainees were repairing what they could, using the Force. Ana lowered her profile, feeling out of place among them. Luke grasped the girl's shoulder, letting her know everything was all right.
A young trainee, almost Ana and Owen's age walked up to them. He was young and handsome, but not Kyp. Ana realized it would take awhile before she'd get over Kyp and it would also be just as hard for Kyp to move on. She noticed Astra's face light up at the sight of the young man. He hugged her.
"Kailin, it's so great to see you." she cried, then gestured towards Ana. "This is my best friend, Ana Solo. We basically grew up together and to this day, can never be split apart."
Kailin shook Ana's hand, remembering that Astra always bragged about her constantly. He basically knew everything about her. "Ana Solo, it's a pleasure to have finally met you." he said, then turned to Luke, "We've been working non-stop to make repairs, Master Skywalker. May we be allowed to take a break?"
Luke nodded. "Of course. Kailin, if you could show Ana her quarters."
Ana cleared her throat. "I'm rooming with Astra. We already made arrangements."
"Can I at least take your baggage?" he offered.
She glanced at Astra, then handed over her duffel bag to Kailin. He smiled then head towards the temple. On his way, he told the trainees they could take a break. Once again, Ana turned to Astra, glaring at her suspiciously. "Who's he? I never met him?" she asked.
"Oh Kailin? He's only a friend. He's from Corellia, like your grandfather. Kailin came here about 2 1/2 or 3 months ago." Astra laughed. "He's really popular with the girls."
"I'm sure he is." Ana retorted, switching her gaze to Luke.
"I'm going to settle in. I'll only be here for a few days, then I'll head back to Coruscant." he said, walking towards the temple.
**
Ana and Astra head for the cafeteria. The girls' picked up a lunch and sat down. Astra was smiling and giggling to herself, which she often did when she knew some tidbit about something. "What did you think of Kailin?"
Ana twitched her nose. "He's okay, if you like that type. I mean, I'm sure he's really nice and everything, but he's not my type."
Astra rolled her eyes. "I can't believe you didn't notice? He likes you. He was gawking all over you."
She smiled. "I'm flattered, I am. But he's not my type." Ana took another bite of her food. "You could date him though."
The princess nodded her head. Never once in all the years they've known each other, did Ana ever seem clueless. "I like Kailin, but not like that. I've only known him for 3 1/2 months."
"Well, it's a lot longer than I've known him. I only met him. You can't have a relationship based on first impressions. You on the other hand, have a better chance than me."
The Jedi frowned. "I was just trying to cheer you up. To get over Kyp."
Ana waved her hand. "Just forget about it. Let's just eat lunch." she retorted.
**
Luke Skywalker was more than glad to be back on Yavin. Though he officially lived on Coruscant, Yavin still felt like home. Even if he was going to be there for a few days, it didn't feel enough. He wanted to stay there as long as Ana trained, though he didn't need to be there. Ana was his favorite niece and Yavin... The essence and feel of being young trainees, old and new, was addictive. Luke smiled. He was truly home.
His door sounded. Luke rolled his eyes, then called that the person could come in. It was Kailin, Astra's friend. Luke himself, like Ana, knew little about Kailin, except that he was from Corellia and only arrived 3 months ago. "Kailin, what are you doing here?" The Jedi Master asked. "If you want advice about Astra, I don't know what to tell you."
The boy laughed. "I wasn't going to ask about Astra. I was going to ask about Ana," he paused. "Astra bragged to me what Ana was like - so much in fact that I developed a crush on her."
Luke frowned. "Look Kailin, Ana just got out of a bad relationship. I don't think telling her you have feelings for her will do any good. The guy she dated before, she was very serious about him."
Though a bit vexed, the boy didn't lose his determination. Luke smiled, admiring that quality in him. "I guess that means I'll just have to try harder to win her over." He smiled.
Luke nodded his head. "You're really not one to give up so easily, are you?"
"Never given up in my life. I'm not about to start now."
Suddenly Luke couldn't hold back the urge for spilling every little detail about his niece from her fav's to her pet peeves. "I guess I could give you some advice."
**
After lunch, Astra lead Ana to her quarters or their quarters, rather. Ana entered first. Her duffel bag was placed on the bed, the only bed. She glanced at Astra, unsure of where she could sleep. "Oh well, we could drag in another bed." Astra added, "Actually, I was going to head out to talk to Luke."
As she opened the door, the princess was shocked to see Kyp Durron standing before her. "Kyp. Hi." Astra replied, gesturing that he enter.
Ana froze as she confronted the Jedi. She still felt strongly for him, still felt the desire to be with him. Ana breathed slowly as her pulse raced. She glanced at Astra.
"I guess I should leave. Leave you two to talk." Astra began.
Still facing Ana, Kyp called that she shouldn't leave. Ana nodded okay in agreement as she switched her gaze back to Kyp. "How are you?" she asked.
"I'm good. You?"
She smiled lightly. "I'm adjusting okay." Ana paused, "This is gonna be a bit awkward, isn't it?"
"What do you mean?"
"Being here - together, but not together in the same place." Ana paused. "Kyp, if it ever seems like I'm mean to you because I don't talk to you, its because I'm trying to get over you, over "us."
He frowned. "It's been us for a long time. It's going to be hard getting used to, not having you in my arms."
Ana didn't reply. Instead, she sat on the bed, reaching for her duffel bag. "I should begin to unpack, get settled."
As Kyp turned to leave, he remembered Owen and turned back to Ana. "Why isn't Owen here? I would have thought he'd be more proud of you than anyone else."
She slowly met his gaze. "We have a difference of opinion."
The Jedi didn't need to ask anymore and simply left with Astra at his back. Before heading down the corridor, Astra gestured that he talk to her. "If you're mad about me stopping by..." Kyp began.
She nodded no. "It's not that. I won't tell anyone, it's just Ana's doing her best to get over you and I think it would be best for her, if you don't interfere in her studies." She paused. "But you can still be her friend."
Kyp didn't reply and simply turned to leave. Astra gasped then head towards her godfather's quarters.
**
As Astra neared her godfather's quarters, she felt and urgency to talk to him. Mainly, the princess only came to talk about her living arrangement. As she palmed the door, the girl was surprised to see Kailin answer. He smiled at her. "Kailin, what are you doing here?"
"I came to ask Luke for some advice on Ana."
She walked in, watching him sarcastically. Luke sat up on the bed and smiled at Astra. Astra glanced at Kailin again. He smiled and turned to her. "It's not like what you told me about her didn't suffice, it did. I just wanted to know how I could get her to like me."
Astra turned to Luke. "Anyway, everything's set. I just need an extra bed for Ana, cause we're rooming together."
Luke hesitated. "Astra, maybe it would be a good idea if you guys don't room together. I need Ana completely focused for tomorrow, which means I should be able to get her up early in the morning. That means no girl talk until midnight or at least until three." He paused, smiling. "I know you, Astra. Once the two of you get together, there's no way to break up a great 'gossip' party."
Astra nodded okay then changed the subject back to Kailin. The Jedi was still there, standing with his arms crossed. His attractive hair almost covered his eyes but gave a great view of his face. She wandered if he ever purposely posed his good side to anyone. "What kind of advice were you giving Kailin?"
Luke smiled. "It wasn't anything intrusive. I just told Kailin to be himself."
The Jedi's goddaughter frowned. "I'm sure you mean well Luke, but Ana needs time to get over 'you know who' before she gets involved again."
"Astra, I know about Kyp." Kailin said. "I don't blame Ana. He's a great guy."
She turned to him. "Give her time. All she needs is to adjust to being here and being in a close proximity to Kyp and yet so far." Astra gazed at Luke again. "I better go." As she turned to leave, she glanced back at the two men. "No gossiping!" she joked and left.
**
Yavin's morning sun rose high over the Massassai Temple as Ana woke up in her own room. Last night, when Astra went to see Luke about the bed, he offered that it would be a good idea that she have her own room. Ana agreed. It offended Astra a bit at first, because she agreed so quickly. But understood. Ana stretched her arms as she sat up and began to dress. Ironically, she didn't have a traditional Jedi robe packed like her uncle but it probably didn't matter since most of the trainees didn't wear Jedi roves. Instead, she simply wore her brown leather jacket, a white blouse and light brown pants. On the way out, she grabbed her sabre.
Even when she reached the cafeteria for breakfast, Ana was still half-asleep. She grabbed some coffee and a small bowl of oatmeal then sat down. Ana was alone for the most part, which she didn't mind though she wouldn't be for long. Kailin Sun spotted her and began head her way. She thought about leaving but was too tired to stand up.
"Is this seat taken?" he asked.
Ana didn't wave her hand away as he sat down. "How do you like the temple so far?"
She glared at him. "I know what the temple is like. I've been here a couple of times to see Owen and Astra."
He smiled. "I forgot." Kailin looked down. "Speaking of Owen, when is he coming?"
Ana shrugged. "I don't know. Probably in a week or so, depending if he's still mad at me."
Kailin looked at her confused. "Why is Owen mad at you?"
"He thinks I shouldn't be doing this. I shouldn't use training to be a Jedi as an excuse to get away from my problems." She huffed.
"Are you?"
She glared at him again. "No. I'm not. I'm still the same Ana. I'm simply expressing a new side of myself." She smiled. "When is class today?"
Kailin nodded. "I thought you knew. I mean you are his niece." He said sarcastically, "According to Tionne, his time varies. But usually, he begins around late afternoon. The morning is used for exercise or meditation."
"Well, I could use a good exercise. Although with my power, it's pretty much literally unpredictable." She replied, standing up.
As Ana began to head out, Kailin called to her. "What's your power?"
She turned back and smiled. "Premonitions." And left the hall.
**
Ana found Astra talking with Tionne. Though Astra was much younger than she was, they seemed like they could have been sisters at one time. It was weird to admit such a thing considering how close she was to Astra. But it was the truth. Tionne was actually Astra's first friend when she arrived on Yavin. She smiled at them and walked over. "What were you two talking about?" Ana asked.
"I was just giving Astra some helpful hints, regarding her power." Tionne replied, as she faced Ana completely. "Have you been having a nice first day so far?"
Ana nodded yes. Tionne flashed a quick smile at Astra then head off to the temple. She turned to Astra. "Are you going to class today?"
Astra nodded yes. "Good. I was wandering if you could sit with me? I'm still getting used to the whole Jedi temple routine."
The princess had a mischievous grin on her face. "How would you feel about a small sparring practice?"
Another sparring practice? Luke already kicked her but on the way over. Now, her best friend wanted to see how good she was. Ana reluctantly nodded and grabbed her sabre, as Astra went for her. Astra's sabre was a shade of gray. As they began sparring, other trainees gathered around the girls, including Kailin. The princess noticed he was there but doubted Ana did.
Ana sprung forward, driving Astra back. She counter attacked by flipping over Ana to her back. Many of the trainees "ooo'd" and "awed" at the two girls. Finally, Ana told the girl mentally to go for a big finish. Astra agreed, smiling. Ana leapt to Astra's right side and deflected her sabre again. They froze and disengaged their sabres and turned to the surrounding trainees. She smiled at a lot of them then frown when she saw Kailin. After the crowd realized there was no more show, they returned to their own exercises. Astra followed them returning to the temple.
Kailin stepped forward. "You were pretty good - for a beginner. Your turns however, need a little more work."
"I'll keep that in mind next time." She retorted, clipping her sabre back onto her belt. "Thanks for the tip." As she turned, Kailin noticed her lip twinge and realized she was humoring him.
**
Later that day, all the trainees swarmed into the auditorium. Ana counted at least 15-18 heads, which didn't even constitute a swarm. She decided to sit in the middle or back, so she'd look less conspicuous. Luke Skywalker, a Jedi Master, was also Ana's great great uncle. That meant that Luke would probably focus all his attention on her because she was family. But Ana didn't want to play favorites. She wanted to be treated like an ordinary student, not the head master's great great grand niece.
Ana looked around the area and found Astra seated in the middle row, next to Kailin. Kailin. It seemed like he had been following her everywhere, which would have been an annoyance but Ana didn't seem to mind. He was sweet, funny... Ana stopped herself before she could completely drown her sorrows in a new love. She sucked up her gut and went to sit by Astra.
The Jedi princess smiled at Ana as she took a seat on her right side. Kailin looked over Astra and smiled at Ana. She, however, snapped back to attention when Luke entered followed by Tionne.
Luke saw Ana and nodded to her. Ana bent her head down, lowering her profile. "Welcome. I have a brief lesson about vibratos stones, then I want you to pair off and begin sparring practice."
Ana perked up. Vibratos stones. When Ana began to study the stones, her findings classified them as vibrato stones.
"Now, can anyone tell me what vibratos stones are?" he scanned the room and noticed Ana's interest. "Ana."
She flinched and began to stand up, but decided not to. "Vibratos stones, first of all aren't even stones. They're rare crystals. They come in large chunks but can be cut down to size. The most rare is turquoise." She paused and looked around. "Or so I've been told."
Luke nodded yes. "You're right. Vibratos stones are rare crystals and the most rare is turquoise." He paused. "Thank you, Ana."
She lightly smiled as Astra gave an "how did you know that" look. Ana ignored it. As Luke went on with his lesson, Ana began to take as many notes as she could. Many of the students stared at her, wondering as to why she was taking notes. Luke looked at her as well. She stopped when she noticed the stares and smiled foolishly. "I'm working on a study." Ana lied as many of the students diverted their attention back to the lesson. Once again, Ana lowered her profile, feeling hopelessly lost and out of place.
**
After Luke's lesson, many of the Jedi paired off for sparring sessions while Ana looked over her notes. She needed to know everything about these stones. In her vision, when Obi-Wan gave them to her, he said they were from Naboo. But according to her notes, Naboo possessed no such crystals. Ana frowned. Something wasn't right.
She sat there by herself for about fifteen minutes until Kailin went to sit down next to her. He looked like he was about to crack up laughing but contained himself. "Why were you taking notes?"
Ana smiled. "It's a hobby. I'm so used to taking notes about nothing and everything. Vibratos stones just happen to interest me."
"Why?"
She hesitated before answering. "The crystals that power my sabre are Vibratos stones. I needed to take notes so I'd know where to look for new ones incase they powered out."
Kailin nodded, accepting that explanation but felt there was more she wasn't telling him. "Well, its good your interested in such things. It helps you expand your mind." He replied, getting up.
Ana looked back at her notes. Naboo? Obi-Wan Kanobi, what are you playing towards, she thought. She closed the small computer pad and stood up as she began to leave. Luke caught her before she left the hall. Ana turned around. "Heading off so soon?"
She nodded yes. "I have some studying to do." Ana paused. "It was a great lesson. It had me inspired."
"You seemed a bit hesitant."
Ana scratched her head. "It just seemed like you were picking favorites. I'm your great great grand niece." She paused to change the subject. "Naboo has no core right? I mean, crystals can't be found there - like I don't know, turquoise Vibratos stones?"
The Jedi Master nodded no. "Naboo has no core. It would virtually be impossible to find any minerals or crystals in its core."
"Why's that?"
"Because Naboo's core is strictly liquid." Luke replied.
Ana's eyes widened. "Really. A planet with no core. I thought that sort of thing was impossible."
Luke shrugged as Ana began to leave.
**
Ana walked into her quarters, baffled. How could Obi-Wan say the crystals were from Naboo if the planet didn't even have a solid core? Something was amiss. She dropped onto her bed and closed her eyes. The Jedi smiled. At least this time she wasn't pulled into a vision like the last two times.
She peered around herself. The girl had hoped she'd talk to Kanobi, but he wasn't there. Instead, Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn stood in his place. Ana scowled. He was probably ducking her because she figured out that he lied to her. "He lied to me." Ana said bluntly.
The Jedi walked closer to Ana. He didn't lie to you. The crystals did come from Naboo.
Ana dropped onto a rock. "But Naboo core isn't solid. It's liquid."
Jinn's face-hardened. They did come from Naboo, Ana. He paused and his face softened into a gentle smile. How was your first day?
She glared at him. "Ironically, Luke's lesson today was based on Vibratos stones. Everyone in class thought I was crazy when I began to take notes."
Qui-Gon switched back to the original subject. You should go to Naboo. If you go there, all your questions will be answered. He stood up. Ana, your destiny is what you make it. May the Force be with you. and disappeared.
**
Kailin Sun felt air beneath his legs as he slowly drifted above the ground. When he was about 10 meters off the ground, he raised his left hand and began to levitate two small rocks. As he raised the rocks, the Jedi opened his eyes.
Normally, he didn't put up a big show. But he was basically the only one in the field. Everyone else was inside meditating in his or her bedchambers. Kailin scanned the area. He could make out a beautiful brunette coming towards him. It was Ana.
She stopped once she realized any disturbances to his concentration would cause him to fall. "Can I ask you something?"
Kailin nodded yes as he lowered the rocks with his left hand to the ground. "What's up?" he joked.
Ana caught the joke but didn't laugh. "I need some one to accompany me to Naboo." She paused. "I already talked to Luke and he said someone needed to come with me, that and I'm still grounded from going anywhere by myself."
"So I guess what I'm trying to say is, will you accompany me?" Ana asked.
Kailin smiled. He was a bit confused as to why she used more than five words to ask him something so simple, but was grateful that she asked him. "Naboo? It's a really beautiful planet. Sounds like fun."
Ana swept a piece of hair behind her ear and smiled. "Great. We'll leave tomorrow after breakfast." As she turned, Ana added, "I mean 'we' being, you, me and Astra. She's coming with."
The Jedi still maintained a smile, despite the extra company. He nodded okay as she turned and walked back to the temple.
**
As Ana entered her quarters, she felt as if many eyes were watching her. They seemed to whisper to each other. It was ghostly. Ana shook her head. The voices stopped as she crawled into her bed. She pulled the covers over her body and closed her eyes.
Ana gasped as a great force sucked her into a vision.
~~She stood in the center of the large room. Windows of sunlight filled the room. Twelve chairs surrounded the center and once again, the voices came whispering to each other. Ana put her hands over her ears as the whispers grew louder. The Jedi swiveled around when she felt someone touch her shoulder.
Now, Ana was afraid and wanted nothing but the vision to end. The person that touched her shoulder wore a dark robe. His face was dark and she could feel a dark aura surrounding him. "Who are you?"
He didn't reply. Ana turned back to the twelve chairs. Something wasn't right. She closed her eyes hoping she'd wake up, snapping back to the present. ~~
**
She felt her head. There were small traces on sweat on it. Before she could lay back down to sleep, her COM beeped. "Ana, wake up. It's morning." Astra said.
Morning? Ana crawled off her bed, grabbed her jacket and sabre then left for breakfast.
As Ana walked down the hallway towards the cafeteria Kailin met her. She smiled at him,
though a bit fazed from her vision. "Heading for breakfast?" he asked.
Ana nodded yes. "Actually, I was." She paused. "Care you join me?"
Kailin extended his arm to her and smiled, "Why I'd love to Miss Solo."
Ana laughed as they walked down the hall together. For once, she felt completely relaxed and didn't think about Kyp.
**
As Astra took a bite of her bread, she was alarmed to see Ana and Kailin come in together. At first, Ana seemed really distant but whenever she was with Kailin, she changed back into her normal self. The princess smiled as they came near. She could barely make out a small twinkle in Ana's left eye. Another amazement was that Kailin was holding her arm, escorting her. "How are you this morning?" she asked.
Ana smiled. "I'm great." The nightmare she had the night before didn't seem to matter. Seeing Kailin early in the morning, making her smile and forget about her troubles was the cure to however down Ana felt.
Kailin shifted his weight. "Well ladies, I'm going to fetch breakfast." He said, staring at Ana.
"I'll have a coffee, no sugar and some scrambled eggs." Ana replied.
He smiled. "A coffee, no sugar and some scrambled eggs coming up." As he turned to leave, Kailin winked at Ana.
Ana blushed, diverting her gaze back to Astra. A large smile sprung across her face. "What?"
"You! I've never seen you like this before. I don't know. You seem more alive." Astra explained, "You like him, don't you?"
Ana couldn't hide her feelings from her friend anymore. She was right. There were some feelings of mutual attraction. "Well, all I can say is - it's a good thing you're coming along. I wouldn't trust myself to be alone with him."
**
After breakfast, Kailin went to help Astra with supplies for the trip. Meanwhile, Ana began to meditate. She calmed her breath as she was sucked into a vision. Ana scowled. It was the third time she was sucked into an unwanted vision and was getting tired of it. She thought about scanning the area around herself but decided it would only waste time. She expected that maybe Qui-Gon needed to talk to her alone - but he wasn't. Kanobi was with him.
We're sorry for having bothered you this morning, but we felt maybe that you needed to talk to us about your vision from last night. Jinn said.
"So you had to bring him along?" she replied, nodding her head towards Kanobi.
Obi-Wan smiled. Well, it hardly seemed fair that Qui-Gon is the only person to give you advice and I don't get say.
Ana still wasn't pleased. "I don't want to talk about it," She paused and placed a hand on her waist. "Look, I'm going on a very important trip and I really need to go now."
As she turned, Qui-Gon called back. May the Force be with you.
She weakly looked at him and replied, "Ditto," then drifted back to reality.
Obi-Wan turned to his Master, She seemed to be in a much better mood this morning before we called her.
Qui-Gon didn't reply as they disappeared.
**
Luke Skywalker had to admit, when his niece told him she was taking a trip to the small planet of Naboo, he felt dumfounded but granted her permission to go with the company of two other students. It was only the second day and she was leaving. However he felt, he felt for some reason that she needed to go - not only for herself but others. He couldn't refuse her. Ana Solo was the most gifted young woman he knew and though it took her awhile to realize that, he was glad she waited.
As he walked closer to the shuttle, he noticed Kailin working with Astra but no Ana. Ana? Where are you? His face panicked that she wasn't there but slowly calmed when she snuck up behind him. Kailin saw her and smiled, then returned to his work. "Ana, do you know what you're doing?" Luke asked.
She laughed. "I know, it may seem a bit out there but I just need to prove to myself that there's nothing out there."
**
As Ana examined the stones from her sabre, Kailin walked in with a confused expression on his face. "Explain to me again, why were going to Naboo?"
She looked up at him. "The crystals." Ana held three of the five turquoise stones in her hand. "A friend of mine gave these to me and said they were from Naboo. I just need to know if he was right or mistaken."
Kailin smiled. "You don't like being wrong, do you?"
Ana hesitated. "No, I don't. I don't like being wrong but I do like explanations to supernatural events to prove not be supernatural."
The Jedi looked down. "It will take us 4 or 6 days to get to Naboo."
Ana nodded okay. "Thank you for coming along. You're really sweet."
He laughed. "Is that all I am?" The Jedi walked closer to Ana and knelt down next to her, "Ana, I can't stop feeling the way I do about you. I love you."
She frowned. "You should go back to the cockpit. Make sure Astra's doing okay. I'll be okay here."
He touched Ana's cheek, gasped then head back towards the cockpit.
Kailin walked slowly towards the cockpit. He was so close to Ana and yet, she turned him away. She wasn't happy the first day but that changed once she adjusted. Ana still distanced herself though she was beginning to open up to him. He turned a corridor into what was the entrance to the cockpit. Astra was at the controls. She smiled at him once he entered. Kailin lightly smiled at her then dropped into the co-pilot chair. "How long is she going to be like that?" he asked.
Astra glanced at him, unsure what was talking about. "What do you mean?"
"Distance herself? I mean, when she's happy, her face lights up and her eyes take on a brighter color." He paused. "I could make her happy if she only dropped her barrier of being hurt."
"Ana's just scared. Kyp was the love of her life. It hurts her to know that she has feelings for someone else other than him." Astra paused. "It's gonna take time. But she'll come around. Don't force yourself on her."
Ana shuddered into tears. She knew how she felt towards Kailin and it scared her. The feeling that she loved him only meant that she'd end up hurt again. She couldn't afford that. Kailin was sweet, caring, funny and handsome - but so was Kyp. There was some part of her that loved Kyp because they shared a special bond. Ana closed her eyes and bit her lip to fight back the tears of pain.
No. She couldn't deal with anymore pain. No more pain, sorrows and heart breaks. Ana pushed back her bangs behind her ears and began to lay her head onto her pillow, slowly drifting to sleep.
**
Qui-Gon Jinn felt the solemnity in Ana as he stroked her head in his lap. She was so confused, lost and hurt. For many years, he was her friend giving her hope when she felt nothing. Now, all he wanted to do was wipe away her tears and erase her pain. But he couldn't do that. The Jedi Master stroked her bangs. Ana, you shouldn't be afraid. Kailin's feelings for you are sincere. If you look deep enough, you'll find that you feel the same for him.
Ana held up her head from Qui-Gon 's lap. Surprisingly, he was in a solid form. The Jedi Master wasn't a ghost. He was alive. The tears from Ana's eyes began to cease as she touched his chest. She could feel his heart beat. "I don't know if my heart is true. I mean I know Kailin means a lot to me, but I'm afraid." Ana whispered.
Qui-Gon raised his hand and touched Ana's lips to calm her down. His hand fell to her neck as he gently stroked her back. All the times he appeared to her, he always wanted to feel what she was like. When he first met her, Ana was an independent woman with a goal to live life as she dictated it. He always felt a connection between himself and Ana, a bond stronger than friendship.
Finally, he leaned over; bracing her shoulders and kissed her. Follow your heart, Ana. Don't be afraid of your feelings. Believe me, Kailin truly loves you. Now if you could only find it in your heart to return how you feel for him.
Ana nodded her head. "I can't. I can't. I don't have strength."
Qui-Gon raised his hand to Ana's cheek. You do. The Force is strong with you, as in your heart. He paused. Ana, look at me.
She lifted her head and faced the Jedi Master. You have the strength. The Force is with you. He said as Ana woke up.
Astra was in the doorway. "We're here."
**
As Ana entered the pit, she realized that she really didn't understand why she was drawn to this small planet. Naboo was strange. It had no core, the people were very peaceful and even more strange, was the rumored underwater civilization. Many people that came to Naboo usually mocked at the myth. Ana wasn't ignorant. In her studies of History, she learned to differentiate myth from truth. According to her background info, there was evidence of an underwater civilization. The question was did it still exist?
"Astra, take us down. I want to take a closer look." Ana said, almost mesmerized.
**
Ana Solo felt the energy of Qui-Gon Jinn overwhelm her as she stepped off the ramp onto the moist soil of Naboo. Most of the planet was swamp but it was the Capital Theed that was the main attraction. The Naboo loved art and architecture, especially in the cities. She turned to Astra and Kailin. "If were going to explore the core, we need to go underwater." Ana said.
"Underwater?" Kailin shrieked. "No way. You two go on. I'd rather stay dry."
Astra and Ana exchanged glances then looked at Kailin. "Is the mighty Kailin Sun afraid of the water?" Ana teased.
"Afraid? No. I just can't swim."
"Don't worry. I'll hold your hand." Ana replied, smiling at him.
The thought that Ana would hold his hand meant the he'd have to stick close to her. "Sure. I'm agreeable to that."
**
Ana removed her jacket and shoved it into her bag then walked over to join Astra and Kailin. She handed them the oxygen breathers. Astra went in first. She waved as she walked into the lake. As Kailin stepped forward, Ana grasped his hand. "A promise is a promise."
He smiled almost staring at her then turned his gaze towards the lake. They walked in together, placing the breathers' snugly on their mouths.
As Ana swam, a vision struck her. She saw a golden city. It was brightly lit, extended at least 125 kilometers and its domes were huge. Over a bend, two Jedi swam towards the city like, she, Kailin and Astra were doing. They were there following a strange fish-human like creature.
Sudennly, Kailin shook her arm as she pulled back to the present before a large fish was about to eat the girl. He pulled her out of the way towards some reefs. Astra was there, watching for the large fish to leave. Once the creature found no food, it took off. She looked at Astra.
Ana was still a bit dazed from the vision but nodded thanks to Kailin for saving her life. Astra gestured that they be careful and swam away. Ana glanced at Kailin then swam after Astra. The Jedi swam deeper to the ground floor. Ana grabbed a small knife and began to dig at the dirt. Kailin tapped her aside and used a waterproof scanner to look over the floor. She peeked over his shoulder.
Nothing. There were no signs of crystals. Ana haunched back. She rolled her eyes then began to swim upward. Kailin and Astra looked at each other then followed the girl to the surface.
**
Ana squeezed her hair free of the water and grabbed her jacket. She knew she couldn't give up. The Jedi now knew there was something else going on besides the crystals used for her lightsabre. Something elusive. Astra and Kailin walked out of the water. Kailin removed a small towel from his belt and shook his head then patted it. He looked at Ana, staring at her. She looked down. "Thank you for saving my life, for pulling me out of the way." Ana scratched her head. "My mind was wandering."
He smiled at her then walked past Ana to gather his things. Astra came up to Ana with a worried expression on her face. "What did you see?" After 27 years together, Astra pretty much knew how Ana acted when she had a vision.
Ana lowered her voice. "I saw a city. It was huge. The main points had large bubble domes..." she paused. "And I saw two Jedi swimming towards it. They were male."
The princess nodded her head. "The only Jedi that are here are us. Maybe it was in the past."
"I agree with that." Ana said, then glanced at Kailin. "It's just if there's no core - why was I drawn here in the first place?"
Astra nodded. "Maybe, we can check out the city's historical database."
**
Coryn Kuzan, Naboo's historian, sorted through a bunch of files. For 3 years, she was the planet's historian. She was also the youngest historian in her area, which made her popular among her "colleagues." Coryn always tried to keep her office as clean as possible, mainly because she couldn't stand computers. The historian was about 5 feet tall, had a small face that almost looked like a marble, shoulder length blonde hair and blue eyes. She came from a big family that had a history of short women and tall men. Coryn basically stopped growing after her 17th birthday.
Her birthday. Born on a leap year, her birthday was every four years, which she didn't mind because she was always so busy to celebrate. Coryn looked up at the door as three people entered her office. "Um welcome." She replied, placing a tab on the paper she was looking at, "I'm Coryn Kuzan, planet's historian. How may I help you?"
Ana stepped forward next to Astra. "I'm Ana Solo. These are my friends, Astra Sule and Kailin Sun. I just have a few questions, if you don't mind."
"No. Not at all. Please." Coryn replied, gesturing that they sit down.
Ana removed her lightsabre. "We're Jedi knights from Yavin 4. And well..." she opened her sabre to reveal the five turquoise stones, "A friend told me they came from here. I know he could have been mistaken."
Coryn examined one of the stones carefully. "Your friend could have been right. These stones are made from the same material as.... Only that was a long time ago." She paused. "Rumor has it, they disappeared around the same time as the Emperor's new hand began to purge the Jedi."
The Jedi flinched. Darth Vadar. Coryn examined the stones' cleavage. "I could be wrong. I never took science. But if I may take this stone to research this further?"
Ana glanced at her friends. "Sure."
**
It was another all nighter for Coryn Kuzan. Presumably, many of her friends thought she chose the wrong profession because she had an equal balance of geology and history. Of course, most people believed she was too young to be a historian but more so because she was a woman.
In the past, it wasn't uncommon that a woman had a considerable influence in politics or the workplace. But that was the past and now was the present. She generally could be easily sucked into the past whenever she researched something interesting.
Being surrounded by fresh records and old ones did that to her. She couldn't help it. Even the Jedi that had been extinct for as long as Palpitine's Purge and yet there were small group of them left in the Galaxy and growing each day with increasing number.
Coryn loved history since she could remember. She studied her planet's history first then decided to study universal history. When she attended the Academy for History/Geological Occurrences, she was recognized in her freshman class and received a reward for excellent achievement in her area.
Some weeks later, she was promoted to the position of professor. Coryn held the job for three weeks then decided to venture out and seek new positions in her area of expertise. Four years later, she returned to Naboo, her birth soil and set herself up as the planet's historian. Now, twenty-one years old and still digging her nose in history and still depicted as a scientist. Coryn closed her eyes. I wish I were there. Back there. What an adventure it would be.
Unbeknownst to herself, the polarity surrounding the room changed, sending her back in time before the rise of the Empire and the beginning of a new age for Naboo.
**
Ana Solo woke up the next morning with a displaced feeling in her gut. She wasn't sure what it meant but Ana was positive whatever it was wasn't good. She jumped off her bed, dressed into a clean blouse and put on her jacket. The Jedi walked out into the common area where Kailin was sleeping. Astra was on the side bar, drinking coffee. She smiled at Ana as she slowly sat down on a stool next to her. The princess sensed the change around the room as Ana when she woke up. Something happened last night that was just now taking effect. Ana hesitated to ask, then decided she should. "Did you feel that? It was like a magnetic wave."
Astra nodded yes. "I did. I don't really know what to make of it." She paused and glanced at Kailin. "We should wake him up and go to see Dr. Kuzan."
As Ana walked through the streets of Naboo with Astra and Kailin, she felt as if she shouldn't be there. Many of the people around her didn't seem any different but she still felt displaced. Ana was sure Astra felt the same way. Kailin on the other hand was another story. He seemed to be acting like there was nothing wrong. She shifted her gaze to Astra and grasped her hand as they neared the doctor's office.
**
Coryn Kuzan scanned the office as she sorted through papers like she always did. The stone the Jedi gave her was still under a scanner, which was switched off and removed the stone as the Jedi entered her office. She smiled at them. "Good morning."
Ana didn't respond and went to peer out a window at the streets below. She glanced at Astra then back at Coryn. "Did you feel anything strange this morning?"
She nodded no as Ana stepped forward. "I didn't really figure this out until I walked through the streets, but I think we've been sucked into a time rift of some kind." Ana knew the feeling of a time rift because she and Owen were pulled into one and traveled to Coruscant of the past. In science, they were generally dismissed as a feeling of deja vu.
Kailin stepped forward next to Ana. He gently stroked a hand over her back, though she didn't seem to notice. "I knew I felt something weird this morning."
"How far back could we generally be?" Astra wandered as Coryn removed some books covering a monitor.
She turned on the monitor. There was a warning flash: Naboo is being invaded. All people need to evacuate the city. It was repeated several times before she switched it off again.
**
As Qui-Gon Jinn snuck between buildings with Kanobi and Jar Jar at his back, he felt a strange surge in the Force. They stopped to peer at the street below. Groups of battle droids were taking Queen Amidala, Sio Bibble, Captain Panaka and the Queen's handmaidens to a camp.
He nodded to his apprentice. The Jedi sprung down on the droids, crushing them. Queen Amidala stood speechless as she watched the Jedi deal with the droids. Padme, one of the Queen's handmaiden's stepped forward beside the Queen.
"Your Highness, we are the Ambassadors, for the Supreme Chancellor." Qui-Gon stated.
"Your negotiations seem to have failed, Ambassador." Bibble added, a gray haired man with a pointy beard.
"The negotiations never took place. Your Highness, we must make contact with the republic."
He looked over his shoulder. Obi-Wan, Jar Jar and the rest of the group were behind him but he still felt the strange presence (which somehow felt familiar to him). They saw several Naboo spacecraft guarded by about fifty battle droids. Alarms were heard in the distance.
"There are too many of them." Panaka added, scanning the area.
"That won't be a problem." He turned to Amidala. "Your Highness, under the circumstances, I suggest you come to Coruscant with us." The Jedi voiced.
"Thank you, Ambassador, but my place is here with my people." The young queen relented.
"They will kill you if you stay."
"They wouldn't dare." Bibble objected.
"They need her to sign a treaty to make this invasion of theirs legal. They can't afford to kill her." Panaka added.
**
Ana Solo was in awe when she realized who the two Jedi were that she saw in her vision. It was Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. She turned to Astra, Kailin and Coryn. She knew there was more to what was happening. The girl leapt from Astra and Kailin. Astra tried to grab her but she was too fast. "Ana, what are you doing?" Astra cried.
She turned back. "It's okay. I know them." And head on.
**
"The situation here is not what it seems. There is something else behind all this, Your Highness. There is no logic in the Federation's move here. My feelings tell me they will destroy you." Qui-Gon urged.
**
Ana appeared from the back and nodded hello to Qui-Gon. He saw the girl but said nothing to alarm the Queen and her guards. The Queen turned to Padme and Eirtae. "Either choice presents a great risk...to all of us all..."
"We are brave, Your Highness." Padme whispered.
"If you are to leave, Your Highness, it must be now." Qui-Gon reminded her.
"Then, I will plead our case before the Senate." Her head swerved to Bibble. "Be careful, Governor." Amidala replied, leaving with the Jedi and two of her handmaidens.
Once again, before he turned Qui-Gon made eye contact with Ana and sent a telepathic message to her. Ana, what are you doing here?
She glanced back and gestured for her friends to come near. Coryn stood next to Ana. This is Coryn Kuzan. She has strong mental powers. I know. She's the one that brought us here. She paused, I think she could be...
Go to Coruscant. Talk to the Council, then leave and return to your own time. It's dangerous here. He said and vanished behind Kenobi and the Queen.
**
Ana took Qui-Gon's advice and head to Coruscant with Kailin, Astra and Coryn. The journey itself took about five days. They asked around for where the Jedi Temple was and were directed to a large spire that stood above the city.
The Council Chamber itself was much like Ana expected it to look like, because of her vision. The twelve chairs that surrounded the chamber housed the head Jedi Masters. Yoda as she expected was the head backed by a human black male. "Ana Solo, this is a surprise. What are you doing here?" Windu asked with a smile.
She glanced at her three friends. "Honestly, I don't know." Ana paused, "This morning we were on Naboo, but not the Naboo you know. I think we were caught in a time rift. I felt a surge but wasn't sure what it was until I walked the streets with my friends. We have to go back. We're disrupting time by even bring here."
She stepped forward, sweeping a piece of bangs behind her left ear. "I saw Qui-Gon and Kanobi on Naboo. Qui-Gon told me to go to you for help."
"How did you arrive here? Was there a conduit?" Gallia added.
Ana turned back to her friends and noticed Coryn. Coryn. She pulled the young girl forward before the Council. "This is Coryn Kuzan, a historian. I gave her some crystals to look over because I suspected the real origins were false. Now, it could be the crystals that the power of my lightsabre..."
"Lightsabre?" Windu repeated. "You've decided to train?"
She nodded yes. "Maybe they harness some sort of power or maybe..." she turned to glance at Coryn. "Or maybe you do."
Coryn's eyes widened. "Me? You've got to be kidding! I'm just a historian. I don't know anything about Jedi or the Force. All I heard I figured were legends."
"Whatever the case, we will figure out how to reopen the vortex or rift you came through." Windu stated.
Ana nodded okay then glanced worriedly at Kailin. As the foursome turned to leave, Coryn was called back.
The historian exchanged looks with Ana then nodded okay. Ana lightly smiled at her then exited the chambers with Astra and Kailin. Coryn was silent. She knew why they called her back. All her life, she always felt that things that happened to her were too easy and had to have had a reason behind them.
Yoda spoke first. "How many years have you?"
"Twenty-one. I was born on a leap year." She replied. Being born on a leap year was very rare. If one were, normally it would be classified as a scientific occurrence of unbelievable phenomenon.
"Rare it is, your case. Potential powers, you have. Must be not taken likely, they can't." The Jedi Master paused. "The Force works in mysterious ways, it does. Tested, you must be."
"But I'm too old. If I was to be trained, I would be considered too old."
Windu sat back. "Your meeting with Ana was no accident. I see the two of you becoming quick friends." He paused. "When the rift is open again and you return to your Naboo, you must leave with Ana and her friends. It is the only way you can understand your powers."
Coryn fell silent, bowed and left the chamber.
**
Ana leaned on the balcony railing as she watched the sun set. She imagined many other Jedi standing at the same spot and watching the same sun over and over again. It was an eerie feeling being in a place where several Jedi came to discuss assignments or simply to watch the sun set. It was very calming.
As Kailin Sun walked onto the balcony to find Ana, he never realized until then how beautiful she was and how the reflection of the sun and the slow breeze warmed her face. He gazed at her and walked over. "Hey." The boy whispered.
She turned to him and smiled. "Kailin, I'm sorry."
He shrugged. "For what?"
"For pushing you away. I was scared. Kyp was the only one I truly loved." She paused. "I knew I care about you, but I didn't want to admit it was love."
Kailin took her hands in his and smiled lightly at her. "It doesn't matter. Ana, I knew I loved you before I met you. I'm not just saying that because Astra told me so much about you. It's because I knew your heart was pure and true. I also knew if I wasn't your first love, it only meant that my passion for you would be stronger than the first time." He paused and tipped her head towards him, as their lips interlocked into a kiss.
Ana gasped. Ever since she felt a connection towards Kailin, she had been avoiding it. She was scared to feel for fear that she could be hurt again. He nodded his head. "I'm not going to hurt. I'd never hurt you." She cried.
Kailin stroked his hand down her neck and back, staring into her eyes. "I know. And I'd never hurt you." He paused. "I love you. I know I've already said that but now it just seems better."
They both turned their heads towards the open sky and stared as the sun went down over the temple.
**
The Council summoned the Jedi. Ana stuck close to Kailin as they entered the chamber. The only Council members that were present were Mace Windu, Master Yoda and another Jedi Master, Ana didn't recognize.
"Ana Solo, hopefully the next time we meet you'll have completed your training and become what you have destined to be." Windu stated.
"But for now, you must leave." Yoda added.
Ana ungrasped Kailin's hand and stepped forward before the Council. "We're ready."
Ki-Adi-Mundi, the Jedi Master, Ana wasn't familiar with gestured that they hold hands. "You must clean your mind and think only of home."
Once again, Ana took Kailin's hand as Astra grabbed her right and Coryn grasped hers. The Jedi closed their eyes as they were suddenly pulled through the rift.
**
Ana Solo fell on her back, as she was the first to reach home. She slowly began to stand up as Kailin fell on her. The two stared at each other as Astra and Coryn were the last to come out of the vortex. Kailin smiled then stood up, helping Ana to her feet. The four stared around at their surroundings. Yavin. They were back.
**
Luke Skywalker felt Ana's return as he raced through the Massassai Temple. It had only been a week ago that she, Kailin and Astra left but was glad she returned. The Jedi Master stopped as he felt a familiar presence behind him. He turned.
Owen Solo. A day or two after Ana left, Owen showed up to complete his training and wish Ana good luck. Luke knew, eventually he'd change his mind. The young Jedi loved his sister and his bond with her was more than love, it was of respect and trust.
He nodded his hand. "They're here. I felt them."
"I know."
Ana guessed that probably no more than a week could have passed. She sat alone on the steps of the Massassai Temple, staring at the beautiful planet. She was glad to be home. Home. That's what Yavin was now. Ana smiled, sensing a warm feeling of being secure and safe. She was home and for a moment, she felt a twinge of happiness she never felt before.
"Welcome back." A voice said.
Ana turned around and smiled. Her Uncle Luke and brother, Owen. She leapt from the steps and hugged the Jedi. More than anything, she was glad to see Owen. She didn't care if he was just visiting, she was simply glad he came to see her. Ana nodded her head. "You have no idea of how happy I am to see you guys."
"Feeling's mutual." Luke laughed, then nodded as Kailin, Astra and a new girl came near.
Ana glanced at her three companions and gestured that Coryn step forward. The girl was reluctant at first then obeyed. "Uncle Luke, this is a new friend of mine - Coryn Kuzan." Owen smiled. The fact that Coryn was beautiful didn't leave his eye. Ana noticed her brother's behavior but ignored it. "She has powers - strong mental powers. I was thinking maybe she could be trained on how to use her power properly."
Luke nodded in agreement. He always felt overwhelmed when a new candidate was presented to him. "Welcome to Yavin 4. We shall begin your training as soon as you are ready."
The Jedi peered at Ana then nodded that Kailin, Astra and Coryn follow him into the Temple while Ana spoke with her brother. "Owen..." Ana began.
He nodded no. "Let me speak first." Owen paused. "Ana, I'm sorry. You're my sister and you're a Jedi. It's in your blood. I shouldn't have disagreed with you as I did. In fact, I should have been proud of you like I am right now. I'm proud of you and I support you."
Ana smiled then kissed his cheek and followed her friends inside the Temple. She smiled to herself. The Jedi was truly home.
1
1
Adventures of Ana and Owen: New Young Jedi Knights
Book 3
By obi's girl
Summary: After deciding to return to the Academy as a Jedi trainee Ana Solo has a revelation concerning her past and where she came from. But before she can deal with her past, Ana is distracted in the present by her former love, Kyp Durron and a new suitor, a friend of Astra's, Kailin Sun.
Rating: PG-13
Feed back: Yes.
Disclaimer: The characters of Luke Skywalker, Mara Jade, Han Solo, Leia Solo, Qui-Gon Jinn, are the sole property of the almighty, George Lucas. No infringement is intended. The characters of Ana Solo, Owen Solo, Coryn "Wylie" Kuzan, Astra Sule, Veniqua, Dray Sun, Kailin Sun, and Aiden Sule belong to obi's girl. Manipulation of these characters in any way discredit the author's rights. These are my original creations that I do not want anybody to touch them in any way. Thank you.
Ana Solo decided if she was to train she wouldn't feel as bad. She was wrong. Though a bit premature, the Jedi still saw training as a last result which was sort of like punishment at the wrong time. Her Uncle Luke and Astra were surprised when she made the announcement. Astra couldn't believe it. Her best friend was training to be a Jedi and finally, they could bond over things such as the Force and doing good to help people.
Only, that's what she was doing before she decided to train. She helped people. With her premonitions, she was able to help people without being a Jedi Knight. It seemed bizarre. Ana packed the last of her belongings as Owen came in. She didn't think she'd get to see him before she left.
Yavin. Yes, Yavin was perfectly safe now. Apparently, the minute they left the planet, the tremors stopped entirely. Finally, Owen began to say what we came to say. "I'm sorry I wasn't there," he said. "Were they hard on you?"
Ana smiled. "Things were a bit harsh in the beginning, but cooled down." she paused. "You don't have apologize. You were right not to come. I was wrong to take advantage of our relationship."
"I'm still sorry."
Ana turned to him. "Owen, I'm going back to Yavin. I'm going to train."
He frowned. "You shouldn't." Owen retorted, standing up. He ran his fingers through his auburn hair. "Yavin shouldn't be your last resort because your not allowed to see Kyp anymore."
She nodded no. "Kyp's not coming with me. I mean, he will head back eventually, but he's not coming with me. Uncle Luke and Astra are."
Owen turned to her. "Don't punish yourself, Ana. The hurt will only hurt some more, but you can't pretend to be something that you're not."
Ana was silent as their uncle Luke came in. He was shocked to see Owen, but didn't show it. The Jedi smiled at the two then turned his gaze to Ana. "When you're ready, we can leave."
Once again, Ana glanced at Owen. He still felt that she was giving up then turned back to Luke. "I'm ready when you are."
Luke smiled again. "Ana, you have no idea how proud I am." he paused. "Are you sure about this?"
Her smile lessened but she still felt confident. "I'm sure."
He nodded his head to Owen, then left with Ana at his back. She turned sadly to her brother and managed a couragable "I have to do this" smile. Owen didn't smile as Ana turned and followed her Uncle Luke.
It seemed alien to Ana. As she met Astra at the shuttle, the princess smiled and handed her a spare lightsabre. "I don't know if it works okay. You might have to play the settings a bit."
Ana glanced at Luke then hugged the girl. "You are going to be my roommate at the temple, right?"
"It wouldn't be real if I wasn't."
**
For the most part, Ana toyed with the sabre Astra gave her during the trip. She placed the crystals Obi-Wan gave her into the weapon and began to adjust the settings as Astra suggested. Ana lightly smiled to herself. It felt exhilarating to work on something that wasn't mechanical in the computer sense. Finally, she pressed the "on" button and weapon came alive. Its blade hissed and whizzed to life. She waved it around a couple of times in a circular motion.
"Care to try that out?" a voice said.
Ana looked up. It was Luke. He smiled almost devilishly as Ana quickly turned the sabre off. "I'm not sure that's a good idea." she replied.
Still, the devilish grin on Luke's face didn't disappear and he began to reach for his own saber. The green blade sprung to life as Ana nodded it wasn't a good idea but ignited her sabre anyway. "First lesson: Never let your guard down." he instructed, abruptly hitting Ana's blade. She countered the attack but only a few minutes too late. "Second: Always maintain your focus. Your focus determines your reality." he paused. "I hit the mid-section of your sabre. Where will I strike next?"
Ana was silent. So many thoughts filled her mind that she shut off her sabre. Luke nodded okay in agreement. "We'll take this up another time when you're more familiar with what to do." Luke said. The Jedi Master shut off his sabre clipped it to his belt and returned to the cockpit.
After Ana put away her lightsabre, she slept. It would be a long trip to Yavin and she'd need all her energy and strength to train.
**
The minute Ana drifted to sleep she was pulled into a vision. Once again, she thought the timing was bad but dismissed it. She looked around herself. The place she was in seemed familiar, yet unfamiliar. Ana scanned the terrain, looking the appearance of either Qui-Gon Jinn or a young Obi-Wan Kanobi. In the distance, she could make out a large man. She knew who it was and why he called. Qui-Gon Jinn wanted to congratulate her for having the courage to train. Ana smiled tiredly at him.
Ana. Qui-Gon began as he lightly hugged her. I am very proud of you. But, may I give you some advice?
Ana nodded okay as he let her go. "Sure. Why not? I almost got my ass kicked anyway by my uncle."
Qui-Gon was quiet. He stared at the girl, looking for a sense of sarcasm or partial anger. What he found was a mixture of both but dismissed it because he knew some frustration wasn't unusual. A large fallen tree stump appeared as they sat on it. The Jedi Master paced himself. I am proud of you, Ana. More proud than you'll ever know. He paused. However, I know this change in attitude has something to do with losing a personal battle.
She nodded yes as Jinn haunched back. The girl struggled to find the right words without having offended the Jedi Maser. Finally, Ana opened her mouth. "I'm not allowed to see Kyp anymore." she paused. "I thought if I trained, losing Kyp wouldn't hurt so much."
Jinn huffed. Ana, this is very dangerous. Using training as an excuse to runaway from your problems will hurt not only you but also those that are excited about your decision.
Ana dropped her head. "I know. But that's not my only reason why I'm doing this." she stood up, straightened her vest and began to pace around. Finally, Ana turned back to him with a more serious face, which meant her feelings on the subject were personal. "It's time. These last couple of days - mainly on Yavin - I had time to reflect on where my life was going."
"And I think you'll agree with me on this. When you helped me, held my hand, convinced me I could connect with the Force, I believed you." She shrugged her shoulders. "I still do."
Ana, what I did was only enhance what was already there. Qui-Gon paused. You've always had the power inside of you. You were simply scared to summon it. The Force has always been strong with you, even when you were a child.
He stood up. You have the right idea, Ana. I just hope you won't drain your sorrows in it. Jinn paused and smiled. May the Force be with you and left.
**
Some odd days later, the Jedi arrived back on Yavin. Ana came out from the back as Luke piloted the shuttle towards the surface. Astra nodded at Ana as the girl strapped herself in. A tremendous outlook of the Massassai Temple filled the screen. Though it suffered through many violent aftershocks, the temple still managed to maintain it's strong body. As the Jedi maneuvered towards the surface, Ana grabbed her duffel bag.
Ana Solo waited by the door as the shuttle's ramp extended to the ground. Astra came from the cockpit, followed by Luke, whom was wearing his black cloak. When Ana was younger, she and Owen labeled the cloak "The Robe of a Jedi Master."
Owen. When she talked to him, Ana felt he was upset with her and left before she could find out why. She turned to Luke. Half of the trainees were repairing what they could, using the Force. Ana lowered her profile, feeling out of place among them. Luke grasped the girl's shoulder, letting her know everything was all right.
A young trainee, almost Ana and Owen's age walked up to them. He was young and handsome, but not Kyp. Ana realized it would take awhile before she'd get over Kyp and it would also be just as hard for Kyp to move on. She noticed Astra's face light up at the sight of the young man. He hugged her.
"Kailin, it's so great to see you." she cried, then gestured towards Ana. "This is my best friend, Ana Solo. We basically grew up together and to this day, can never be split apart."
Kailin shook Ana's hand, remembering that Astra always bragged about her constantly. He basically knew everything about her. "Ana Solo, it's a pleasure to have finally met you." he said, then turned to Luke, "We've been working non-stop to make repairs, Master Skywalker. May we be allowed to take a break?"
Luke nodded. "Of course. Kailin, if you could show Ana her quarters."
Ana cleared her throat. "I'm rooming with Astra. We already made arrangements."
"Can I at least take your baggage?" he offered.
She glanced at Astra, then handed over her duffel bag to Kailin. He smiled then head towards the temple. On his way, he told the trainees they could take a break. Once again, Ana turned to Astra, glaring at her suspiciously. "Who's he? I never met him?" she asked.
"Oh Kailin? He's only a friend. He's from Corellia, like your grandfather. Kailin came here about 2 1/2 or 3 months ago." Astra laughed. "He's really popular with the girls."
"I'm sure he is." Ana retorted, switching her gaze to Luke.
"I'm going to settle in. I'll only be here for a few days, then I'll head back to Coruscant." he said, walking towards the temple.
**
Ana and Astra head for the cafeteria. The girls' picked up a lunch and sat down. Astra was smiling and giggling to herself, which she often did when she knew some tidbit about something. "What did you think of Kailin?"
Ana twitched her nose. "He's okay, if you like that type. I mean, I'm sure he's really nice and everything, but he's not my type."
Astra rolled her eyes. "I can't believe you didn't notice? He likes you. He was gawking all over you."
She smiled. "I'm flattered, I am. But he's not my type." Ana took another bite of her food. "You could date him though."
The princess nodded her head. Never once in all the years they've known each other, did Ana ever seem clueless. "I like Kailin, but not like that. I've only known him for 3 1/2 months."
"Well, it's a lot longer than I've known him. I only met him. You can't have a relationship based on first impressions. You on the other hand, have a better chance than me."
The Jedi frowned. "I was just trying to cheer you up. To get over Kyp."
Ana waved her hand. "Just forget about it. Let's just eat lunch." she retorted.
**
Luke Skywalker was more than glad to be back on Yavin. Though he officially lived on Coruscant, Yavin still felt like home. Even if he was going to be there for a few days, it didn't feel enough. He wanted to stay there as long as Ana trained, though he didn't need to be there. Ana was his favorite niece and Yavin... The essence and feel of being young trainees, old and new, was addictive. Luke smiled. He was truly home.
His door sounded. Luke rolled his eyes, then called that the person could come in. It was Kailin, Astra's friend. Luke himself, like Ana, knew little about Kailin, except that he was from Corellia and only arrived 3 months ago. "Kailin, what are you doing here?" The Jedi Master asked. "If you want advice about Astra, I don't know what to tell you."
The boy laughed. "I wasn't going to ask about Astra. I was going to ask about Ana," he paused. "Astra bragged to me what Ana was like - so much in fact that I developed a crush on her."
Luke frowned. "Look Kailin, Ana just got out of a bad relationship. I don't think telling her you have feelings for her will do any good. The guy she dated before, she was very serious about him."
Though a bit vexed, the boy didn't lose his determination. Luke smiled, admiring that quality in him. "I guess that means I'll just have to try harder to win her over." He smiled.
Luke nodded his head. "You're really not one to give up so easily, are you?"
"Never given up in my life. I'm not about to start now."
Suddenly Luke couldn't hold back the urge for spilling every little detail about his niece from her fav's to her pet peeves. "I guess I could give you some advice."
**
After lunch, Astra lead Ana to her quarters or their quarters, rather. Ana entered first. Her duffel bag was placed on the bed, the only bed. She glanced at Astra, unsure of where she could sleep. "Oh well, we could drag in another bed." Astra added, "Actually, I was going to head out to talk to Luke."
As she opened the door, the princess was shocked to see Kyp Durron standing before her. "Kyp. Hi." Astra replied, gesturing that he enter.
Ana froze as she confronted the Jedi. She still felt strongly for him, still felt the desire to be with him. Ana breathed slowly as her pulse raced. She glanced at Astra.
"I guess I should leave. Leave you two to talk." Astra began.
Still facing Ana, Kyp called that she shouldn't leave. Ana nodded okay in agreement as she switched her gaze back to Kyp. "How are you?" she asked.
"I'm good. You?"
She smiled lightly. "I'm adjusting okay." Ana paused, "This is gonna be a bit awkward, isn't it?"
"What do you mean?"
"Being here - together, but not together in the same place." Ana paused. "Kyp, if it ever seems like I'm mean to you because I don't talk to you, its because I'm trying to get over you, over "us."
He frowned. "It's been us for a long time. It's going to be hard getting used to, not having you in my arms."
Ana didn't reply. Instead, she sat on the bed, reaching for her duffel bag. "I should begin to unpack, get settled."
As Kyp turned to leave, he remembered Owen and turned back to Ana. "Why isn't Owen here? I would have thought he'd be more proud of you than anyone else."
She slowly met his gaze. "We have a difference of opinion."
The Jedi didn't need to ask anymore and simply left with Astra at his back. Before heading down the corridor, Astra gestured that he talk to her. "If you're mad about me stopping by..." Kyp began.
She nodded no. "It's not that. I won't tell anyone, it's just Ana's doing her best to get over you and I think it would be best for her, if you don't interfere in her studies." She paused. "But you can still be her friend."
Kyp didn't reply and simply turned to leave. Astra gasped then head towards her godfather's quarters.
**
As Astra neared her godfather's quarters, she felt and urgency to talk to him. Mainly, the princess only came to talk about her living arrangement. As she palmed the door, the girl was surprised to see Kailin answer. He smiled at her. "Kailin, what are you doing here?"
"I came to ask Luke for some advice on Ana."
She walked in, watching him sarcastically. Luke sat up on the bed and smiled at Astra. Astra glanced at Kailin again. He smiled and turned to her. "It's not like what you told me about her didn't suffice, it did. I just wanted to know how I could get her to like me."
Astra turned to Luke. "Anyway, everything's set. I just need an extra bed for Ana, cause we're rooming together."
Luke hesitated. "Astra, maybe it would be a good idea if you guys don't room together. I need Ana completely focused for tomorrow, which means I should be able to get her up early in the morning. That means no girl talk until midnight or at least until three." He paused, smiling. "I know you, Astra. Once the two of you get together, there's no way to break up a great 'gossip' party."
Astra nodded okay then changed the subject back to Kailin. The Jedi was still there, standing with his arms crossed. His attractive hair almost covered his eyes but gave a great view of his face. She wandered if he ever purposely posed his good side to anyone. "What kind of advice were you giving Kailin?"
Luke smiled. "It wasn't anything intrusive. I just told Kailin to be himself."
The Jedi's goddaughter frowned. "I'm sure you mean well Luke, but Ana needs time to get over 'you know who' before she gets involved again."
"Astra, I know about Kyp." Kailin said. "I don't blame Ana. He's a great guy."
She turned to him. "Give her time. All she needs is to adjust to being here and being in a close proximity to Kyp and yet so far." Astra gazed at Luke again. "I better go." As she turned to leave, she glanced back at the two men. "No gossiping!" she joked and left.
**
Yavin's morning sun rose high over the Massassai Temple as Ana woke up in her own room. Last night, when Astra went to see Luke about the bed, he offered that it would be a good idea that she have her own room. Ana agreed. It offended Astra a bit at first, because she agreed so quickly. But understood. Ana stretched her arms as she sat up and began to dress. Ironically, she didn't have a traditional Jedi robe packed like her uncle but it probably didn't matter since most of the trainees didn't wear Jedi roves. Instead, she simply wore her brown leather jacket, a white blouse and light brown pants. On the way out, she grabbed her sabre.
Even when she reached the cafeteria for breakfast, Ana was still half-asleep. She grabbed some coffee and a small bowl of oatmeal then sat down. Ana was alone for the most part, which she didn't mind though she wouldn't be for long. Kailin Sun spotted her and began head her way. She thought about leaving but was too tired to stand up.
"Is this seat taken?" he asked.
Ana didn't wave her hand away as he sat down. "How do you like the temple so far?"
She glared at him. "I know what the temple is like. I've been here a couple of times to see Owen and Astra."
He smiled. "I forgot." Kailin looked down. "Speaking of Owen, when is he coming?"
Ana shrugged. "I don't know. Probably in a week or so, depending if he's still mad at me."
Kailin looked at her confused. "Why is Owen mad at you?"
"He thinks I shouldn't be doing this. I shouldn't use training to be a Jedi as an excuse to get away from my problems." She huffed.
"Are you?"
She glared at him again. "No. I'm not. I'm still the same Ana. I'm simply expressing a new side of myself." She smiled. "When is class today?"
Kailin nodded. "I thought you knew. I mean you are his niece." He said sarcastically, "According to Tionne, his time varies. But usually, he begins around late afternoon. The morning is used for exercise or meditation."
"Well, I could use a good exercise. Although with my power, it's pretty much literally unpredictable." She replied, standing up.
As Ana began to head out, Kailin called to her. "What's your power?"
She turned back and smiled. "Premonitions." And left the hall.
**
Ana found Astra talking with Tionne. Though Astra was much younger than she was, they seemed like they could have been sisters at one time. It was weird to admit such a thing considering how close she was to Astra. But it was the truth. Tionne was actually Astra's first friend when she arrived on Yavin. She smiled at them and walked over. "What were you two talking about?" Ana asked.
"I was just giving Astra some helpful hints, regarding her power." Tionne replied, as she faced Ana completely. "Have you been having a nice first day so far?"
Ana nodded yes. Tionne flashed a quick smile at Astra then head off to the temple. She turned to Astra. "Are you going to class today?"
Astra nodded yes. "Good. I was wandering if you could sit with me? I'm still getting used to the whole Jedi temple routine."
The princess had a mischievous grin on her face. "How would you feel about a small sparring practice?"
Another sparring practice? Luke already kicked her but on the way over. Now, her best friend wanted to see how good she was. Ana reluctantly nodded and grabbed her sabre, as Astra went for her. Astra's sabre was a shade of gray. As they began sparring, other trainees gathered around the girls, including Kailin. The princess noticed he was there but doubted Ana did.
Ana sprung forward, driving Astra back. She counter attacked by flipping over Ana to her back. Many of the trainees "ooo'd" and "awed" at the two girls. Finally, Ana told the girl mentally to go for a big finish. Astra agreed, smiling. Ana leapt to Astra's right side and deflected her sabre again. They froze and disengaged their sabres and turned to the surrounding trainees. She smiled at a lot of them then frown when she saw Kailin. After the crowd realized there was no more show, they returned to their own exercises. Astra followed them returning to the temple.
Kailin stepped forward. "You were pretty good - for a beginner. Your turns however, need a little more work."
"I'll keep that in mind next time." She retorted, clipping her sabre back onto her belt. "Thanks for the tip." As she turned, Kailin noticed her lip twinge and realized she was humoring him.
**
Later that day, all the trainees swarmed into the auditorium. Ana counted at least 15-18 heads, which didn't even constitute a swarm. She decided to sit in the middle or back, so she'd look less conspicuous. Luke Skywalker, a Jedi Master, was also Ana's great great uncle. That meant that Luke would probably focus all his attention on her because she was family. But Ana didn't want to play favorites. She wanted to be treated like an ordinary student, not the head master's great great grand niece.
Ana looked around the area and found Astra seated in the middle row, next to Kailin. Kailin. It seemed like he had been following her everywhere, which would have been an annoyance but Ana didn't seem to mind. He was sweet, funny... Ana stopped herself before she could completely drown her sorrows in a new love. She sucked up her gut and went to sit by Astra.
The Jedi princess smiled at Ana as she took a seat on her right side. Kailin looked over Astra and smiled at Ana. She, however, snapped back to attention when Luke entered followed by Tionne.
Luke saw Ana and nodded to her. Ana bent her head down, lowering her profile. "Welcome. I have a brief lesson about vibratos stones, then I want you to pair off and begin sparring practice."
Ana perked up. Vibratos stones. When Ana began to study the stones, her findings classified them as vibrato stones.
"Now, can anyone tell me what vibratos stones are?" he scanned the room and noticed Ana's interest. "Ana."
She flinched and began to stand up, but decided not to. "Vibratos stones, first of all aren't even stones. They're rare crystals. They come in large chunks but can be cut down to size. The most rare is turquoise." She paused and looked around. "Or so I've been told."
Luke nodded yes. "You're right. Vibratos stones are rare crystals and the most rare is turquoise." He paused. "Thank you, Ana."
She lightly smiled as Astra gave an "how did you know that" look. Ana ignored it. As Luke went on with his lesson, Ana began to take as many notes as she could. Many of the students stared at her, wondering as to why she was taking notes. Luke looked at her as well. She stopped when she noticed the stares and smiled foolishly. "I'm working on a study." Ana lied as many of the students diverted their attention back to the lesson. Once again, Ana lowered her profile, feeling hopelessly lost and out of place.
**
After Luke's lesson, many of the Jedi paired off for sparring sessions while Ana looked over her notes. She needed to know everything about these stones. In her vision, when Obi-Wan gave them to her, he said they were from Naboo. But according to her notes, Naboo possessed no such crystals. Ana frowned. Something wasn't right.
She sat there by herself for about fifteen minutes until Kailin went to sit down next to her. He looked like he was about to crack up laughing but contained himself. "Why were you taking notes?"
Ana smiled. "It's a hobby. I'm so used to taking notes about nothing and everything. Vibratos stones just happen to interest me."
"Why?"
She hesitated before answering. "The crystals that power my sabre are Vibratos stones. I needed to take notes so I'd know where to look for new ones incase they powered out."
Kailin nodded, accepting that explanation but felt there was more she wasn't telling him. "Well, its good your interested in such things. It helps you expand your mind." He replied, getting up.
Ana looked back at her notes. Naboo? Obi-Wan Kanobi, what are you playing towards, she thought. She closed the small computer pad and stood up as she began to leave. Luke caught her before she left the hall. Ana turned around. "Heading off so soon?"
She nodded yes. "I have some studying to do." Ana paused. "It was a great lesson. It had me inspired."
"You seemed a bit hesitant."
Ana scratched her head. "It just seemed like you were picking favorites. I'm your great great grand niece." She paused to change the subject. "Naboo has no core right? I mean, crystals can't be found there - like I don't know, turquoise Vibratos stones?"
The Jedi Master nodded no. "Naboo has no core. It would virtually be impossible to find any minerals or crystals in its core."
"Why's that?"
"Because Naboo's core is strictly liquid." Luke replied.
Ana's eyes widened. "Really. A planet with no core. I thought that sort of thing was impossible."
Luke shrugged as Ana began to leave.
**
Ana walked into her quarters, baffled. How could Obi-Wan say the crystals were from Naboo if the planet didn't even have a solid core? Something was amiss. She dropped onto her bed and closed her eyes. The Jedi smiled. At least this time she wasn't pulled into a vision like the last two times.
She peered around herself. The girl had hoped she'd talk to Kanobi, but he wasn't there. Instead, Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn stood in his place. Ana scowled. He was probably ducking her because she figured out that he lied to her. "He lied to me." Ana said bluntly.
The Jedi walked closer to Ana. He didn't lie to you. The crystals did come from Naboo.
Ana dropped onto a rock. "But Naboo core isn't solid. It's liquid."
Jinn's face-hardened. They did come from Naboo, Ana. He paused and his face softened into a gentle smile. How was your first day?
She glared at him. "Ironically, Luke's lesson today was based on Vibratos stones. Everyone in class thought I was crazy when I began to take notes."
Qui-Gon switched back to the original subject. You should go to Naboo. If you go there, all your questions will be answered. He stood up. Ana, your destiny is what you make it. May the Force be with you. and disappeared.
**
Kailin Sun felt air beneath his legs as he slowly drifted above the ground. When he was about 10 meters off the ground, he raised his left hand and began to levitate two small rocks. As he raised the rocks, the Jedi opened his eyes.
Normally, he didn't put up a big show. But he was basically the only one in the field. Everyone else was inside meditating in his or her bedchambers. Kailin scanned the area. He could make out a beautiful brunette coming towards him. It was Ana.
She stopped once she realized any disturbances to his concentration would cause him to fall. "Can I ask you something?"
Kailin nodded yes as he lowered the rocks with his left hand to the ground. "What's up?" he joked.
Ana caught the joke but didn't laugh. "I need some one to accompany me to Naboo." She paused. "I already talked to Luke and he said someone needed to come with me, that and I'm still grounded from going anywhere by myself."
"So I guess what I'm trying to say is, will you accompany me?" Ana asked.
Kailin smiled. He was a bit confused as to why she used more than five words to ask him something so simple, but was grateful that she asked him. "Naboo? It's a really beautiful planet. Sounds like fun."
Ana swept a piece of hair behind her ear and smiled. "Great. We'll leave tomorrow after breakfast." As she turned, Ana added, "I mean 'we' being, you, me and Astra. She's coming with."
The Jedi still maintained a smile, despite the extra company. He nodded okay as she turned and walked back to the temple.
**
As Ana entered her quarters, she felt as if many eyes were watching her. They seemed to whisper to each other. It was ghostly. Ana shook her head. The voices stopped as she crawled into her bed. She pulled the covers over her body and closed her eyes.
Ana gasped as a great force sucked her into a vision.
~~She stood in the center of the large room. Windows of sunlight filled the room. Twelve chairs surrounded the center and once again, the voices came whispering to each other. Ana put her hands over her ears as the whispers grew louder. The Jedi swiveled around when she felt someone touch her shoulder.
Now, Ana was afraid and wanted nothing but the vision to end. The person that touched her shoulder wore a dark robe. His face was dark and she could feel a dark aura surrounding him. "Who are you?"
He didn't reply. Ana turned back to the twelve chairs. Something wasn't right. She closed her eyes hoping she'd wake up, snapping back to the present. ~~
**
She felt her head. There were small traces on sweat on it. Before she could lay back down to sleep, her COM beeped. "Ana, wake up. It's morning." Astra said.
Morning? Ana crawled off her bed, grabbed her jacket and sabre then left for breakfast.
As Ana walked down the hallway towards the cafeteria Kailin met her. She smiled at him,
though a bit fazed from her vision. "Heading for breakfast?" he asked.
Ana nodded yes. "Actually, I was." She paused. "Care you join me?"
Kailin extended his arm to her and smiled, "Why I'd love to Miss Solo."
Ana laughed as they walked down the hall together. For once, she felt completely relaxed and didn't think about Kyp.
**
As Astra took a bite of her bread, she was alarmed to see Ana and Kailin come in together. At first, Ana seemed really distant but whenever she was with Kailin, she changed back into her normal self. The princess smiled as they came near. She could barely make out a small twinkle in Ana's left eye. Another amazement was that Kailin was holding her arm, escorting her. "How are you this morning?" she asked.
Ana smiled. "I'm great." The nightmare she had the night before didn't seem to matter. Seeing Kailin early in the morning, making her smile and forget about her troubles was the cure to however down Ana felt.
Kailin shifted his weight. "Well ladies, I'm going to fetch breakfast." He said, staring at Ana.
"I'll have a coffee, no sugar and some scrambled eggs." Ana replied.
He smiled. "A coffee, no sugar and some scrambled eggs coming up." As he turned to leave, Kailin winked at Ana.
Ana blushed, diverting her gaze back to Astra. A large smile sprung across her face. "What?"
"You! I've never seen you like this before. I don't know. You seem more alive." Astra explained, "You like him, don't you?"
Ana couldn't hide her feelings from her friend anymore. She was right. There were some feelings of mutual attraction. "Well, all I can say is - it's a good thing you're coming along. I wouldn't trust myself to be alone with him."
**
After breakfast, Kailin went to help Astra with supplies for the trip. Meanwhile, Ana began to meditate. She calmed her breath as she was sucked into a vision. Ana scowled. It was the third time she was sucked into an unwanted vision and was getting tired of it. She thought about scanning the area around herself but decided it would only waste time. She expected that maybe Qui-Gon needed to talk to her alone - but he wasn't. Kanobi was with him.
We're sorry for having bothered you this morning, but we felt maybe that you needed to talk to us about your vision from last night. Jinn said.
"So you had to bring him along?" she replied, nodding her head towards Kanobi.
Obi-Wan smiled. Well, it hardly seemed fair that Qui-Gon is the only person to give you advice and I don't get say.
Ana still wasn't pleased. "I don't want to talk about it," She paused and placed a hand on her waist. "Look, I'm going on a very important trip and I really need to go now."
As she turned, Qui-Gon called back. May the Force be with you.
She weakly looked at him and replied, "Ditto," then drifted back to reality.
Obi-Wan turned to his Master, She seemed to be in a much better mood this morning before we called her.
Qui-Gon didn't reply as they disappeared.
**
Luke Skywalker had to admit, when his niece told him she was taking a trip to the small planet of Naboo, he felt dumfounded but granted her permission to go with the company of two other students. It was only the second day and she was leaving. However he felt, he felt for some reason that she needed to go - not only for herself but others. He couldn't refuse her. Ana Solo was the most gifted young woman he knew and though it took her awhile to realize that, he was glad she waited.
As he walked closer to the shuttle, he noticed Kailin working with Astra but no Ana. Ana? Where are you? His face panicked that she wasn't there but slowly calmed when she snuck up behind him. Kailin saw her and smiled, then returned to his work. "Ana, do you know what you're doing?" Luke asked.
She laughed. "I know, it may seem a bit out there but I just need to prove to myself that there's nothing out there."
**
As Ana examined the stones from her sabre, Kailin walked in with a confused expression on his face. "Explain to me again, why were going to Naboo?"
She looked up at him. "The crystals." Ana held three of the five turquoise stones in her hand. "A friend of mine gave these to me and said they were from Naboo. I just need to know if he was right or mistaken."
Kailin smiled. "You don't like being wrong, do you?"
Ana hesitated. "No, I don't. I don't like being wrong but I do like explanations to supernatural events to prove not be supernatural."
The Jedi looked down. "It will take us 4 or 6 days to get to Naboo."
Ana nodded okay. "Thank you for coming along. You're really sweet."
He laughed. "Is that all I am?" The Jedi walked closer to Ana and knelt down next to her, "Ana, I can't stop feeling the way I do about you. I love you."
She frowned. "You should go back to the cockpit. Make sure Astra's doing okay. I'll be okay here."
He touched Ana's cheek, gasped then head back towards the cockpit.
Kailin walked slowly towards the cockpit. He was so close to Ana and yet, she turned him away. She wasn't happy the first day but that changed once she adjusted. Ana still distanced herself though she was beginning to open up to him. He turned a corridor into what was the entrance to the cockpit. Astra was at the controls. She smiled at him once he entered. Kailin lightly smiled at her then dropped into the co-pilot chair. "How long is she going to be like that?" he asked.
Astra glanced at him, unsure what was talking about. "What do you mean?"
"Distance herself? I mean, when she's happy, her face lights up and her eyes take on a brighter color." He paused. "I could make her happy if she only dropped her barrier of being hurt."
"Ana's just scared. Kyp was the love of her life. It hurts her to know that she has feelings for someone else other than him." Astra paused. "It's gonna take time. But she'll come around. Don't force yourself on her."
Ana shuddered into tears. She knew how she felt towards Kailin and it scared her. The feeling that she loved him only meant that she'd end up hurt again. She couldn't afford that. Kailin was sweet, caring, funny and handsome - but so was Kyp. There was some part of her that loved Kyp because they shared a special bond. Ana closed her eyes and bit her lip to fight back the tears of pain.
No. She couldn't deal with anymore pain. No more pain, sorrows and heart breaks. Ana pushed back her bangs behind her ears and began to lay her head onto her pillow, slowly drifting to sleep.
**
Qui-Gon Jinn felt the solemnity in Ana as he stroked her head in his lap. She was so confused, lost and hurt. For many years, he was her friend giving her hope when she felt nothing. Now, all he wanted to do was wipe away her tears and erase her pain. But he couldn't do that. The Jedi Master stroked her bangs. Ana, you shouldn't be afraid. Kailin's feelings for you are sincere. If you look deep enough, you'll find that you feel the same for him.
Ana held up her head from Qui-Gon 's lap. Surprisingly, he was in a solid form. The Jedi Master wasn't a ghost. He was alive. The tears from Ana's eyes began to cease as she touched his chest. She could feel his heart beat. "I don't know if my heart is true. I mean I know Kailin means a lot to me, but I'm afraid." Ana whispered.
Qui-Gon raised his hand and touched Ana's lips to calm her down. His hand fell to her neck as he gently stroked her back. All the times he appeared to her, he always wanted to feel what she was like. When he first met her, Ana was an independent woman with a goal to live life as she dictated it. He always felt a connection between himself and Ana, a bond stronger than friendship.
Finally, he leaned over; bracing her shoulders and kissed her. Follow your heart, Ana. Don't be afraid of your feelings. Believe me, Kailin truly loves you. Now if you could only find it in your heart to return how you feel for him.
Ana nodded her head. "I can't. I can't. I don't have strength."
Qui-Gon raised his hand to Ana's cheek. You do. The Force is strong with you, as in your heart. He paused. Ana, look at me.
She lifted her head and faced the Jedi Master. You have the strength. The Force is with you. He said as Ana woke up.
Astra was in the doorway. "We're here."
**
As Ana entered the pit, she realized that she really didn't understand why she was drawn to this small planet. Naboo was strange. It had no core, the people were very peaceful and even more strange, was the rumored underwater civilization. Many people that came to Naboo usually mocked at the myth. Ana wasn't ignorant. In her studies of History, she learned to differentiate myth from truth. According to her background info, there was evidence of an underwater civilization. The question was did it still exist?
"Astra, take us down. I want to take a closer look." Ana said, almost mesmerized.
**
Ana Solo felt the energy of Qui-Gon Jinn overwhelm her as she stepped off the ramp onto the moist soil of Naboo. Most of the planet was swamp but it was the Capital Theed that was the main attraction. The Naboo loved art and architecture, especially in the cities. She turned to Astra and Kailin. "If were going to explore the core, we need to go underwater." Ana said.
"Underwater?" Kailin shrieked. "No way. You two go on. I'd rather stay dry."
Astra and Ana exchanged glances then looked at Kailin. "Is the mighty Kailin Sun afraid of the water?" Ana teased.
"Afraid? No. I just can't swim."
"Don't worry. I'll hold your hand." Ana replied, smiling at him.
The thought that Ana would hold his hand meant the he'd have to stick close to her. "Sure. I'm agreeable to that."
**
Ana removed her jacket and shoved it into her bag then walked over to join Astra and Kailin. She handed them the oxygen breathers. Astra went in first. She waved as she walked into the lake. As Kailin stepped forward, Ana grasped his hand. "A promise is a promise."
He smiled almost staring at her then turned his gaze towards the lake. They walked in together, placing the breathers' snugly on their mouths.
As Ana swam, a vision struck her. She saw a golden city. It was brightly lit, extended at least 125 kilometers and its domes were huge. Over a bend, two Jedi swam towards the city like, she, Kailin and Astra were doing. They were there following a strange fish-human like creature.
Sudennly, Kailin shook her arm as she pulled back to the present before a large fish was about to eat the girl. He pulled her out of the way towards some reefs. Astra was there, watching for the large fish to leave. Once the creature found no food, it took off. She looked at Astra.
Ana was still a bit dazed from the vision but nodded thanks to Kailin for saving her life. Astra gestured that they be careful and swam away. Ana glanced at Kailin then swam after Astra. The Jedi swam deeper to the ground floor. Ana grabbed a small knife and began to dig at the dirt. Kailin tapped her aside and used a waterproof scanner to look over the floor. She peeked over his shoulder.
Nothing. There were no signs of crystals. Ana haunched back. She rolled her eyes then began to swim upward. Kailin and Astra looked at each other then followed the girl to the surface.
**
Ana squeezed her hair free of the water and grabbed her jacket. She knew she couldn't give up. The Jedi now knew there was something else going on besides the crystals used for her lightsabre. Something elusive. Astra and Kailin walked out of the water. Kailin removed a small towel from his belt and shook his head then patted it. He looked at Ana, staring at her. She looked down. "Thank you for saving my life, for pulling me out of the way." Ana scratched her head. "My mind was wandering."
He smiled at her then walked past Ana to gather his things. Astra came up to Ana with a worried expression on her face. "What did you see?" After 27 years together, Astra pretty much knew how Ana acted when she had a vision.
Ana lowered her voice. "I saw a city. It was huge. The main points had large bubble domes..." she paused. "And I saw two Jedi swimming towards it. They were male."
The princess nodded her head. "The only Jedi that are here are us. Maybe it was in the past."
"I agree with that." Ana said, then glanced at Kailin. "It's just if there's no core - why was I drawn here in the first place?"
Astra nodded. "Maybe, we can check out the city's historical database."
**
Coryn Kuzan, Naboo's historian, sorted through a bunch of files. For 3 years, she was the planet's historian. She was also the youngest historian in her area, which made her popular among her "colleagues." Coryn always tried to keep her office as clean as possible, mainly because she couldn't stand computers. The historian was about 5 feet tall, had a small face that almost looked like a marble, shoulder length blonde hair and blue eyes. She came from a big family that had a history of short women and tall men. Coryn basically stopped growing after her 17th birthday.
Her birthday. Born on a leap year, her birthday was every four years, which she didn't mind because she was always so busy to celebrate. Coryn looked up at the door as three people entered her office. "Um welcome." She replied, placing a tab on the paper she was looking at, "I'm Coryn Kuzan, planet's historian. How may I help you?"
Ana stepped forward next to Astra. "I'm Ana Solo. These are my friends, Astra Sule and Kailin Sun. I just have a few questions, if you don't mind."
"No. Not at all. Please." Coryn replied, gesturing that they sit down.
Ana removed her lightsabre. "We're Jedi knights from Yavin 4. And well..." she opened her sabre to reveal the five turquoise stones, "A friend told me they came from here. I know he could have been mistaken."
Coryn examined one of the stones carefully. "Your friend could have been right. These stones are made from the same material as.... Only that was a long time ago." She paused. "Rumor has it, they disappeared around the same time as the Emperor's new hand began to purge the Jedi."
The Jedi flinched. Darth Vadar. Coryn examined the stones' cleavage. "I could be wrong. I never took science. But if I may take this stone to research this further?"
Ana glanced at her friends. "Sure."
**
It was another all nighter for Coryn Kuzan. Presumably, many of her friends thought she chose the wrong profession because she had an equal balance of geology and history. Of course, most people believed she was too young to be a historian but more so because she was a woman.
In the past, it wasn't uncommon that a woman had a considerable influence in politics or the workplace. But that was the past and now was the present. She generally could be easily sucked into the past whenever she researched something interesting.
Being surrounded by fresh records and old ones did that to her. She couldn't help it. Even the Jedi that had been extinct for as long as Palpitine's Purge and yet there were small group of them left in the Galaxy and growing each day with increasing number.
Coryn loved history since she could remember. She studied her planet's history first then decided to study universal history. When she attended the Academy for History/Geological Occurrences, she was recognized in her freshman class and received a reward for excellent achievement in her area.
Some weeks later, she was promoted to the position of professor. Coryn held the job for three weeks then decided to venture out and seek new positions in her area of expertise. Four years later, she returned to Naboo, her birth soil and set herself up as the planet's historian. Now, twenty-one years old and still digging her nose in history and still depicted as a scientist. Coryn closed her eyes. I wish I were there. Back there. What an adventure it would be.
Unbeknownst to herself, the polarity surrounding the room changed, sending her back in time before the rise of the Empire and the beginning of a new age for Naboo.
**
Ana Solo woke up the next morning with a displaced feeling in her gut. She wasn't sure what it meant but Ana was positive whatever it was wasn't good. She jumped off her bed, dressed into a clean blouse and put on her jacket. The Jedi walked out into the common area where Kailin was sleeping. Astra was on the side bar, drinking coffee. She smiled at Ana as she slowly sat down on a stool next to her. The princess sensed the change around the room as Ana when she woke up. Something happened last night that was just now taking effect. Ana hesitated to ask, then decided she should. "Did you feel that? It was like a magnetic wave."
Astra nodded yes. "I did. I don't really know what to make of it." She paused and glanced at Kailin. "We should wake him up and go to see Dr. Kuzan."
As Ana walked through the streets of Naboo with Astra and Kailin, she felt as if she shouldn't be there. Many of the people around her didn't seem any different but she still felt displaced. Ana was sure Astra felt the same way. Kailin on the other hand was another story. He seemed to be acting like there was nothing wrong. She shifted her gaze to Astra and grasped her hand as they neared the doctor's office.
**
Coryn Kuzan scanned the office as she sorted through papers like she always did. The stone the Jedi gave her was still under a scanner, which was switched off and removed the stone as the Jedi entered her office. She smiled at them. "Good morning."
Ana didn't respond and went to peer out a window at the streets below. She glanced at Astra then back at Coryn. "Did you feel anything strange this morning?"
She nodded no as Ana stepped forward. "I didn't really figure this out until I walked through the streets, but I think we've been sucked into a time rift of some kind." Ana knew the feeling of a time rift because she and Owen were pulled into one and traveled to Coruscant of the past. In science, they were generally dismissed as a feeling of deja vu.
Kailin stepped forward next to Ana. He gently stroked a hand over her back, though she didn't seem to notice. "I knew I felt something weird this morning."
"How far back could we generally be?" Astra wandered as Coryn removed some books covering a monitor.
She turned on the monitor. There was a warning flash: Naboo is being invaded. All people need to evacuate the city. It was repeated several times before she switched it off again.
**
As Qui-Gon Jinn snuck between buildings with Kanobi and Jar Jar at his back, he felt a strange surge in the Force. They stopped to peer at the street below. Groups of battle droids were taking Queen Amidala, Sio Bibble, Captain Panaka and the Queen's handmaidens to a camp.
He nodded to his apprentice. The Jedi sprung down on the droids, crushing them. Queen Amidala stood speechless as she watched the Jedi deal with the droids. Padme, one of the Queen's handmaiden's stepped forward beside the Queen.
"Your Highness, we are the Ambassadors, for the Supreme Chancellor." Qui-Gon stated.
"Your negotiations seem to have failed, Ambassador." Bibble added, a gray haired man with a pointy beard.
"The negotiations never took place. Your Highness, we must make contact with the republic."
He looked over his shoulder. Obi-Wan, Jar Jar and the rest of the group were behind him but he still felt the strange presence (which somehow felt familiar to him). They saw several Naboo spacecraft guarded by about fifty battle droids. Alarms were heard in the distance.
"There are too many of them." Panaka added, scanning the area.
"That won't be a problem." He turned to Amidala. "Your Highness, under the circumstances, I suggest you come to Coruscant with us." The Jedi voiced.
"Thank you, Ambassador, but my place is here with my people." The young queen relented.
"They will kill you if you stay."
"They wouldn't dare." Bibble objected.
"They need her to sign a treaty to make this invasion of theirs legal. They can't afford to kill her." Panaka added.
**
Ana Solo was in awe when she realized who the two Jedi were that she saw in her vision. It was Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. She turned to Astra, Kailin and Coryn. She knew there was more to what was happening. The girl leapt from Astra and Kailin. Astra tried to grab her but she was too fast. "Ana, what are you doing?" Astra cried.
She turned back. "It's okay. I know them." And head on.
**
"The situation here is not what it seems. There is something else behind all this, Your Highness. There is no logic in the Federation's move here. My feelings tell me they will destroy you." Qui-Gon urged.
**
Ana appeared from the back and nodded hello to Qui-Gon. He saw the girl but said nothing to alarm the Queen and her guards. The Queen turned to Padme and Eirtae. "Either choice presents a great risk...to all of us all..."
"We are brave, Your Highness." Padme whispered.
"If you are to leave, Your Highness, it must be now." Qui-Gon reminded her.
"Then, I will plead our case before the Senate." Her head swerved to Bibble. "Be careful, Governor." Amidala replied, leaving with the Jedi and two of her handmaidens.
Once again, before he turned Qui-Gon made eye contact with Ana and sent a telepathic message to her. Ana, what are you doing here?
She glanced back and gestured for her friends to come near. Coryn stood next to Ana. This is Coryn Kuzan. She has strong mental powers. I know. She's the one that brought us here. She paused, I think she could be...
Go to Coruscant. Talk to the Council, then leave and return to your own time. It's dangerous here. He said and vanished behind Kenobi and the Queen.
**
Ana took Qui-Gon's advice and head to Coruscant with Kailin, Astra and Coryn. The journey itself took about five days. They asked around for where the Jedi Temple was and were directed to a large spire that stood above the city.
The Council Chamber itself was much like Ana expected it to look like, because of her vision. The twelve chairs that surrounded the chamber housed the head Jedi Masters. Yoda as she expected was the head backed by a human black male. "Ana Solo, this is a surprise. What are you doing here?" Windu asked with a smile.
She glanced at her three friends. "Honestly, I don't know." Ana paused, "This morning we were on Naboo, but not the Naboo you know. I think we were caught in a time rift. I felt a surge but wasn't sure what it was until I walked the streets with my friends. We have to go back. We're disrupting time by even bring here."
She stepped forward, sweeping a piece of bangs behind her left ear. "I saw Qui-Gon and Kanobi on Naboo. Qui-Gon told me to go to you for help."
"How did you arrive here? Was there a conduit?" Gallia added.
Ana turned back to her friends and noticed Coryn. Coryn. She pulled the young girl forward before the Council. "This is Coryn Kuzan, a historian. I gave her some crystals to look over because I suspected the real origins were false. Now, it could be the crystals that the power of my lightsabre..."
"Lightsabre?" Windu repeated. "You've decided to train?"
She nodded yes. "Maybe they harness some sort of power or maybe..." she turned to glance at Coryn. "Or maybe you do."
Coryn's eyes widened. "Me? You've got to be kidding! I'm just a historian. I don't know anything about Jedi or the Force. All I heard I figured were legends."
"Whatever the case, we will figure out how to reopen the vortex or rift you came through." Windu stated.
Ana nodded okay then glanced worriedly at Kailin. As the foursome turned to leave, Coryn was called back.
The historian exchanged looks with Ana then nodded okay. Ana lightly smiled at her then exited the chambers with Astra and Kailin. Coryn was silent. She knew why they called her back. All her life, she always felt that things that happened to her were too easy and had to have had a reason behind them.
Yoda spoke first. "How many years have you?"
"Twenty-one. I was born on a leap year." She replied. Being born on a leap year was very rare. If one were, normally it would be classified as a scientific occurrence of unbelievable phenomenon.
"Rare it is, your case. Potential powers, you have. Must be not taken likely, they can't." The Jedi Master paused. "The Force works in mysterious ways, it does. Tested, you must be."
"But I'm too old. If I was to be trained, I would be considered too old."
Windu sat back. "Your meeting with Ana was no accident. I see the two of you becoming quick friends." He paused. "When the rift is open again and you return to your Naboo, you must leave with Ana and her friends. It is the only way you can understand your powers."
Coryn fell silent, bowed and left the chamber.
**
Ana leaned on the balcony railing as she watched the sun set. She imagined many other Jedi standing at the same spot and watching the same sun over and over again. It was an eerie feeling being in a place where several Jedi came to discuss assignments or simply to watch the sun set. It was very calming.
As Kailin Sun walked onto the balcony to find Ana, he never realized until then how beautiful she was and how the reflection of the sun and the slow breeze warmed her face. He gazed at her and walked over. "Hey." The boy whispered.
She turned to him and smiled. "Kailin, I'm sorry."
He shrugged. "For what?"
"For pushing you away. I was scared. Kyp was the only one I truly loved." She paused. "I knew I care about you, but I didn't want to admit it was love."
Kailin took her hands in his and smiled lightly at her. "It doesn't matter. Ana, I knew I loved you before I met you. I'm not just saying that because Astra told me so much about you. It's because I knew your heart was pure and true. I also knew if I wasn't your first love, it only meant that my passion for you would be stronger than the first time." He paused and tipped her head towards him, as their lips interlocked into a kiss.
Ana gasped. Ever since she felt a connection towards Kailin, she had been avoiding it. She was scared to feel for fear that she could be hurt again. He nodded his head. "I'm not going to hurt. I'd never hurt you." She cried.
Kailin stroked his hand down her neck and back, staring into her eyes. "I know. And I'd never hurt you." He paused. "I love you. I know I've already said that but now it just seems better."
They both turned their heads towards the open sky and stared as the sun went down over the temple.
**
The Council summoned the Jedi. Ana stuck close to Kailin as they entered the chamber. The only Council members that were present were Mace Windu, Master Yoda and another Jedi Master, Ana didn't recognize.
"Ana Solo, hopefully the next time we meet you'll have completed your training and become what you have destined to be." Windu stated.
"But for now, you must leave." Yoda added.
Ana ungrasped Kailin's hand and stepped forward before the Council. "We're ready."
Ki-Adi-Mundi, the Jedi Master, Ana wasn't familiar with gestured that they hold hands. "You must clean your mind and think only of home."
Once again, Ana took Kailin's hand as Astra grabbed her right and Coryn grasped hers. The Jedi closed their eyes as they were suddenly pulled through the rift.
**
Ana Solo fell on her back, as she was the first to reach home. She slowly began to stand up as Kailin fell on her. The two stared at each other as Astra and Coryn were the last to come out of the vortex. Kailin smiled then stood up, helping Ana to her feet. The four stared around at their surroundings. Yavin. They were back.
**
Luke Skywalker felt Ana's return as he raced through the Massassai Temple. It had only been a week ago that she, Kailin and Astra left but was glad she returned. The Jedi Master stopped as he felt a familiar presence behind him. He turned.
Owen Solo. A day or two after Ana left, Owen showed up to complete his training and wish Ana good luck. Luke knew, eventually he'd change his mind. The young Jedi loved his sister and his bond with her was more than love, it was of respect and trust.
He nodded his hand. "They're here. I felt them."
"I know."
Ana guessed that probably no more than a week could have passed. She sat alone on the steps of the Massassai Temple, staring at the beautiful planet. She was glad to be home. Home. That's what Yavin was now. Ana smiled, sensing a warm feeling of being secure and safe. She was home and for a moment, she felt a twinge of happiness she never felt before.
"Welcome back." A voice said.
Ana turned around and smiled. Her Uncle Luke and brother, Owen. She leapt from the steps and hugged the Jedi. More than anything, she was glad to see Owen. She didn't care if he was just visiting, she was simply glad he came to see her. Ana nodded her head. "You have no idea of how happy I am to see you guys."
"Feeling's mutual." Luke laughed, then nodded as Kailin, Astra and a new girl came near.
Ana glanced at her three companions and gestured that Coryn step forward. The girl was reluctant at first then obeyed. "Uncle Luke, this is a new friend of mine - Coryn Kuzan." Owen smiled. The fact that Coryn was beautiful didn't leave his eye. Ana noticed her brother's behavior but ignored it. "She has powers - strong mental powers. I was thinking maybe she could be trained on how to use her power properly."
Luke nodded in agreement. He always felt overwhelmed when a new candidate was presented to him. "Welcome to Yavin 4. We shall begin your training as soon as you are ready."
The Jedi peered at Ana then nodded that Kailin, Astra and Coryn follow him into the Temple while Ana spoke with her brother. "Owen..." Ana began.
He nodded no. "Let me speak first." Owen paused. "Ana, I'm sorry. You're my sister and you're a Jedi. It's in your blood. I shouldn't have disagreed with you as I did. In fact, I should have been proud of you like I am right now. I'm proud of you and I support you."
Ana smiled then kissed his cheek and followed her friends inside the Temple. She smiled to herself. The Jedi was truly home.
1
1