Adventures of Ana and Owen: New Young Jedi Knights
Book 8
"Second Chances"
By obi's girl
Summary: Takes off after Ana spirit drifts to the Netherworld unbeknownst to Coryn. Qui-Gon has trouble dealing with being close to Ana, as she and our two favorite Jedi devise a plan to return her to her normal state; Ana has a revelation about why she collapsed in the first place and was returned to the past.
Disclaimer: I think we all know anything that comes from the Star Wars universe belongs to George Lucas alone. The characters of Ana Solo, Owen Solo, Astra Sule, Coryn Wylie, Kailin Sun, Jarix, Aiden Sule and Xon of Astrus and Master Layla Way-lin a.k.a. Layla Wylie belong to obi's girl belong to the writer, obi's girl and may not be used or manipulated in any way. Thank you
As Ana opened her eyes, she felt as if had been drowning and was recently brought back to life. As she began to sit up, a hand pushed her back down. After adjusting her eyes, it dawned on her that she was no longer on the shuttle with Coryn.
A woman walked into the room to check up on her. Ana lay still as she was still unfamiliar with her surroundings. The nurse smiled at her than sat down. She was about to say something but two Jedi Masters entered the room. Ana recognized the man as Mace Windu, the other she was alien to her.
Mace smiled at Ana, "We were worried about you for a minute there. Most Jedi can't bear the transition between worlds,"
Ana frowned, "Transition? I don't understand. What are you talking about?"
The other Jedi, a female, stepped forward. "We assumed you knew. You're dead."
She defiantly nodded her head. "No. I can't be dead. I was on a shuttle with Coryn to Naboo. We were practicing. I was going to help her locate her mother." Tears streamed down her face, "Owen! Kailin and Astra. I can't leave them!"
"Ana, I'm Master Depa Billaba - a friend of Master Qui-Gon Jinn. If you want, we can ask him to talk to you."
She nodded yes. Talking to Qui-Gon would cool her down. Depa and Windu smiled at Ana then left the clinic. Once outside, Depa frowned, feeling sorry for the girl. She turned to Mace, "It isn't fair, Mace. She doesn't deserve this. Ana has a long life ahead of her."
He nodded, "I know, but the Force commands it,"
Coryn Wylie couldn't bring herself to call Master Skywalker. It had only been 30 minutes since Ana collapsed. Her mentor was dead. Qui-Gon confirmed it. As much as she didn't want to admit it, she had to accept it. Though in her opinion, it was too soon.
It hit Coryn pretty hard, but it was nothing compared to what Owen, Kailin and Astra would face. Owen. He was so fragile. One mention that something bad happened would probably throw him over the edge. Ana wasn't only his sister, she was his counterpart. Her philosophy and way of thinking kept him grounded. She was his idol.
And Kailin. According to Ana, she wanted to be with him so much but Kailin wanted to wait until the time was right. Now, they'd never have the chance. She shrugged off the feeling then turned on the com, connecting the computer to Coruscant.
***
Qui-Gon hesitated as he neared the Healer's Center. The Jedi Master didn't know how to react. He wasn't sure if should feel sad for Ana or happy, because he could finally express his love to her. Instead, Qui-Gon decided to hear Ana first then settle on a reaction. In the end, it was a battle of whit's.
As he entered the clinic, Qui-Gon noticed Ana examining her hands. He hypothesized that maybe she was a bit fazed by her sudden condition but chose not to show it. He sat down on a chair next to her bed.
Ana acknowledged his presence, "So, I guess taking Coryn back to Naboo to find her mother wasn't my destiny. My destiny was to drop dead in front of my student, leave my family and forget my life. Is that it?"
Qui-Gon could sense a hint of frustration and anger in her voice. "Ana, I've always told you that your destiny is different from everybody else in your family. You must accept this."
She frowned, "And what if I don't want to accept it? What are you going to do about it? What will the Council do?"
The Jedi remained quiet.
"I don't accept this. You know why I don't? I have a life up there; I have family and friends. You can't ask me to ignore that."
"No one's asking you to. Will it help if I talk to the Council?" Qui-Gon stated.
Ana leaned back on her pillow and smiled, "It's a start,"
Qui-Gon smiled back. By the Force, he loved that smile. After a moment, he stood up to leave but Ana grabbed his wrist. "Wait, I want to talk you about some things,"
Jinn blushed, overtaken by Ana's touch.
"Is that all right? I mean, you don't have to talk to them right away, do you?"
He sat down again and smiled, "That's what I'm here for. However long, it doesn't matter,"
Ana's smile widened, thankful that she wasn't alone in her fight.
**
Qui-Gon wrestled with his conscious as he faced the Jedi Council. He promised Ana he would do everything he could to help her and he would. Obi-Wan had taken time out from his schedule to back him up.
Mace leaned forward to his friend, "I'm sorry Qui-Gon. There's nothing we can do. We cannot help Ana,"
"This isn't the way it's supposed to be. She doesn't deserve this life. There are people that depend on her for guidance - Astra, Coryn. They need her, her family needs her. You can't deny her that," he replied defiantly.
"You've defied the Council before Qui-Gon. We will not allow a third time. Ana's fate is sealed. It can't be changed." Mundi stated concluded.
The Jedi was growing angry, "I'm not defying the Council. I'm simply trying to inveigh that she doesn't belong here. You must see it,"
The Council remained quiet.
"Then the Council has grown corrupt," a voice stated. They all turned to face Ana Solo herself. "I don't accept this and you know what, I never will." She held out her arms, "If you won't help, I'll just have to find some other way - to be normal again," and stormed out.
As she passed Qui-Gon, he felt Ana's growing doubt.
"Qui-Gon, help Ana adjust. She must," Yoda added, speaking for the first time.
Qui-Gon wanted to continue his argument in Ana's behalf but bowed instead and left.
**
Ana was leaning against a wall with her arms crossed. The Jedi didn't expect that she'd show up like that unannounced but that's how Ana was. Unpredictable. "I'm sorry if I interrupted but I couldn't stay cooped up in that clinic. We're not in trouble, are we?"
Jinn nodded no, "We aren't - yet."
Obi-Wan perked up. Once again, the invincible Qui-Gon Jinn were going to defy the Council...for a girl. It actually sounded like something he'd do. "I hate to admit it Master, but you've defied the Council to many times. I don't think..."
"You know what Obi-Wan, rules were meant to be broken," Ana cut him off, glancing at Qui-Gon, thanking him for talking to the Council.
As Ana followed Qui-Gon to his apartment, she couldn't help but feel defeated. She plopped down on a couch, wounded. Ana slowly moved her neck, easing away the pain and fatigue. Qui-Gon smiled then walked closer to her back to begin massaging her shoulders. She closed her eyes as the Jedi Master's hands began to relieve all her stress. She was bound to fall asleep if Qui-Gon hadn't said something.
"I was thinking. Since I can appear to you in your dreams, talk to you, maybe you can appear to Owen or your Uncle Luke,"
Ana smirked, "I thought about that but I think, for the time being, I'll limit my power to premonitions," She jumped up, "Wait a minute. I just had an epiphany. I can use my premonitions to send Luke a vision, What do you think?"
To Ana's dismay, he stopped massaging her neck and shoulders'. "It sounds like a good idea - but there's something else we need to discuss,"
"What about?"
"Training," he replied.
Ana nodded no, "No offense or anything but if I get used to be being here, I'll forget about my old life and well, I love my old life."
"I mean on your cover, our cover. If we're going to pull this off - we need to make them believe you've given up,"
Ana frowned, "But I haven't,"
Qui-Gon froze then continued massaging her shoulders.
She lightly smiled again, "So, I guess I'll have to start calling you Master Jinn, huh?"
He laughed, "Only when training."
"Hmm. Maybe that won't be too bad,"
**
As Owen Solo packed the last of his things, Luke and Kailin arrived. "Come in," he called. He turned to smile at the Jedi but sensed from their expression that something morbid had happened. "What's going on?" Owen asked. The boy glanced at Kailin then back at his uncle.
"Owen, there's been an accident..." Luke began but was interrupted by Kailin.
"You know how Ana was stressed before that she almost lost it?"
He nodded yes.
"She collapsed while training with Coryn. She's dead, Owen,"
Owen fell silent. Ana dead? That wasn't possible. He shook his head in disbelief, "There has to be some mistake. Ana was perfectly healthy before she left,"
Luke shrugged, "But she wasn't okay. Something was bothering her, something so traumatic that it led to her down fall," eyeing the younger Jedi.
Once again, Owen glanced at Kailin. The pact. Luke had to know. There was no way around it. The Jedi stood side-by-side, confronting Luke.
"Master Skywalker, there's something you should know..." Kailin began.
**
An Ana entered the gym, she felt peculiar. She continued on, not quite sure what it was she felt. Solo found Qui-Gon and Kenobi preparing for practice. Obi-Wan looked up and smiled at her. Jinn faced Ana, sensing her disturbed thoughts
"Something's happened." Qui-Gon commented.
She nodded yes. Her eyes widened once Ana realized what it was. "They know about my death. And..." she glanced at Kenobi, "And about what happened between Jedi and Queen,"
The Jedi looked at each other, confused by the last part. "What are you talking about?" Qui-Gon asked.
She huffed, "Kenobi and Luke's mother,"
Obi-Wan looked down, feeling a bit ashamed. Even in the afterlife, the guilt of what happened between himself and Amidala never went away. It hurt even more that he still loved her and were together. Kenobi simply walked off to continue whatever he was doing before, leaving Ana alone with Qui-Gon.
They stared intensely at each other for a moment, before Ana broke his gaze and began to reach for her lightsabre. Qui-Gon waved his hand, stopping her. "Actually, before you join in, Obi-Wan and I have a few moves we've prepared as a demo."
She nodded okay then went to stand a short distance away from the mat. Ana lightly smiled to herself as she realized she was finally going to see Qui-Gon in action.
Master and Apprentice dropped their robes simultaneously, only leaving their tunics and pants. Ana perked up. This was going to be interesting, she thought. The Jedi whipped out their lightsabres. Ana could have sworn it took less than a second. She gazed at Qui-Gon, expecting that he'd give some commentary to help Ana understand the moves.
Before Qui-Gon could answer, Mace Windu appeared with a female Jedi Master. The Jedi smiled at Mace and his companion. "Sorry, if we're interrupting Qui-Gon, but this is Master Layla Way-lin,"
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon bowed before the Master then Jinn turned his gaze to Ana, "And Master Way-lin, this is Ana Solo. She's new at the Temple,"
Instead of bowing, she shook her hand. Instantly, a flash of energy struck Ana. She saw Master Way-lin confronting the Jedi Council about something then it went blank. Ana glanced at Qui-Gon.
What did you see? he sent.
She nodded, smiling. I'll tell you about it later. Still smiling, she bowing slightly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Master Way-lin."
Mace stepped forward again, "Layla was wandering if she could talk to you later, Qui-Gon,"
He nodded okay and the Jedi left.
Ana turned back to Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. "Actually, I'm kind of wounded. Is it all right if we skip training today?" Ana lied, then told Qui-Gon telepathically, Qui-Gon, I need to talk to you,
The Master turned to Obi-Wan, "I agree. Padawan, will you head back to your quarters and begin meditation,"
Obi-Wan bowed respectively to Ana and Qui-Gon and left.
Qui-Gon stared at Ana, "Let's take a walk,"
**
Luke Skywalker wanted to release his anger. His mentor, his friend betrayed him. How could Obi-Wan hide the truth from him? Luke accepted that what happened to his father, Anakin Skywalker, was his fault. But to have an affair with his mother after Anakin turned was unforgivable.
"Ana knew. That's why she was tense that night," the Jedi realized.
Kailin stepped forward, "Luke, Ana understood if you knew it would not only hurt you but Leia and the twins."
He nodded no, "I won't tell Leia," the Jedi paused, "but there's another matter to take care of. Ana's funeral,"
Ana turned to Qui-Gon. She wasn't expecting that her power of premonition would be active. She was expecting, since she's dead, that her powers would be dead. "Something's wrong. I wasn't expecting my powers to show up like this,"
Qui-Gon folded his arms, "What did you see?"
Ana huffed, "I saw Master Way-lin before the Council. It looked like she was angry about something,"
He sat down on a bench, "Layla's not the sort of person lose her temper. I've never known her too, anyway. Did you see anything else?"
She nodded no, "Unless I have another premonition, I can't determine anything. I'm sorry,"
Jinn frowned, "It's all right, Ana." He changed the subject. "We'll continue training tomorrow?"
Ana smirked, "Can't wait. Oh and there's one other issue. I don't have any place to stay. So, I was wandering if I could crash at your place? I mean, Obi-Wan has his own quarters, which means you have extra room. Is that okay?"
Qui-Gon froze. The woman he loved more than his own life asked if she could stay with him? Several thoughts' flowed through his mind but stopped once he saw the image of the Jedi Council's disapproving gaze. He smiled back at Ana. "It's fine. You can move in tonight, if you want."
Solo smiled again then walked forward, hugging him. Qui-Gon almost fell apart but maintained his sanity. Remember she's 27 years old. No matter what, nothing can happen he thought.
Ana suddenly backed away as if she knew what he was thinking. She smiled again then turned to leave. Solo stopped once she remembered something else. "What about the Council?"
Jinn frowned. He had completely forgotten about the Council. "I'll talk to them on both accounts,"
She hesitated, "Uh, I don't mean to sound like an annoyance but I need money to shop for clothes. I didn't exactly come to the afterlife prepared."
Qui-Gon reached into his pocket and pulled out a data pad, then handed it to Ana. "My account has 120 credits."
Ana smiled again at him, "Thank you," and left for real this time.
**
Layla Wylie frowned as she walked through the Temple Gardens'. She didn't want to leave these gardens, leave the temple but she had to. On her last mission to Naboo, she was able to see her husband, Rowan Wylie. He was a politician in the senate. When she first went to Naboo, to settle some dispute she couldn't remember, she met Rowan. As they began to work together, she fell in love with him. Before she left, they were together for one night but that night was enough. Some months later, she found out she was pregnant. As the Trials neared, she gave birth to a healthy baby girl. Cory was beautiful. To protect herself, she changed her last name to Way-Lin. Mace Windu was the only one that knew Layla's true identity and both vowed that no one could know who she or her daughter was.
After Cory was born, Mace came to her to talk about what should be done about her child. The Council wanted to put her into hiding, because they were ashamed that one of their respected Jedi Masters' broke the covenant of being a Jedi Master. Back then, Mace convinced the Council that Layla should keep her daughter, but there was a catch. On Cory's 5th birthday, the subject was brought up again. They wanted to send her to some distance planet, where she'd be protected. No, she wasn't going to lose her little girl.
"Master Way-lin?" a voice asked.
She turned around to face Qui-Gon. Layla smiled, though the only thing she felt like doing was crying. "What was it you wanted to talk about?"
"I'm in trouble, Master Qui-Gon." She cried. "The Council's threatening to take away Cory."
"Your daughter? Why?"
"Cory's getting stronger every day. She can will things to happen. Her mental power is too strong, especially for her age and it scares the Council and as much I don't want to admit it, it scares me."
"Have you talked to your husband?" he asked.
She frowned, "I talked to Rowan before I left Naboo. I told him about what the Council was planning to do and he offered that Cory stay with him, under his protection. But it's too dangerous. Once word gets out that I'm her mother, he'd be ridiculed. I don't wish that on him, on Cory's father. I don't know what to do." Layla paused, "I'm going to talk to the Council later this afternoon, but I need to know what I do is the right thing,"
Qui-Gon shrugged, "Layla, I can't make a decision for you. I know you. You love Cory more than anything. There's light in you when take care of her. If you lose Cory, I'm afraid you'll lose that light. Do you have any other choices? Where has the Council presented that she go?"
"I don't know. You know the Council. When dealing with hiding infants from their parents, it's policy as they call it, to not tell where he or she will go. I'm lost Qui-Gon. I don't want to lose Cory. I love her."
"I know you love Cory. Whatever has to be done, you have to keep in mind that it's in Cory's best interest." Qui-Gon concluded.
She nodded, "Then I guess the only thing I can do, is fight for her, fight for my right to keep my daughter by my side. Thank you, Master Qui-Gon," then left to meet the Council.
**
Coryn gasped as she exited the shuttle. Her blonde hair flowed loosely around her freckled face. In her arms laid Ana's body but for some reason, it was yet to decay. Her flesh remained intact. Luke, Kailin and Owen met her. As she laid her body before the Jedi on the landing pad, she stifled back a cry.
Luke frowned, wandering why her body hadn't decayed. He knelt down, feeling her pulse. Nothing. The Jedi began to probe her mind. Nothing. Something was wrong but she wasn't dead. It just appeared that way on the outside. He turned to Coryn, Kailin and Owen. "She's not dead."
"Not dead? How?" Owen cried.
Kailin shook his head, "No. She's in a coma. Her mind is something place else. On another plane."
Coryn smiled. Tears, happy years fled from her blue eyes. She knelt down next to Luke. "Is there any hope that she'd ever wake up?"
He shrugged, "I don't know. Comas sometimes last for days, week, months even. It's hard to tell, but we should get her to the Healer's Center right away,"
***
As Ana walked towards Qui-Gon's apartment, carrying her shopping bags, she accidentally bumped into Obi-Wan and dropped her bags.
"Been shopping?" he joked.
Ana smiled, "Yeah. Um, since your here, does Qui-Gon have a special access code into his apartment?"
He laughed, "Why? Don't tell me you're moving in?"
She nodded yes, "I don't have any place to stay and well, I don't really know my way around the Temple. I mean, staying with you wasn't my first choice,"
Obi-Wan frowned. "When do you move in?"
Ana shrugged, "Tonight but I wanted to get here first to drop my stuff off before it became official." She paused, sensing intense friction from the Jedi, "Is something wrong with that?"
Kenobi perked up, "Ana..." he began, then remembered she had a boyfriend in her former life. Thank the Force for Kailin Sun. "It's nothing. Forget it."
As he continued on, he remembered Ana asking for his security code. He pressed the COM pad to his Master' door. It opened, letting her in. Ana smiled at him then entered the apartment.
**
Layla paced herself as she waited for the Council to see her. She had to keep her daughter. Cory meant everything to her. The Jedi gasped. What she said in there meant the future of her daughter and maybe, herself. Finally, the Jedi guards nodded that she could enter. Layla lightly closed her eyes, then opened them again and entered the chamber.
Mace Windu was there, so she had at least one member of the Council on her side. He smiled at her, "Good afternoon, Layla,"
She smiled, feeling a calming presence wash over her. "Masters, you know why I've come. I can't lose me little girl. A daughter needs her mother. You all know how much Cory means to me. Please, don't send her away. If you're going to punish anyone, it should be me, not her. She doesn't deserve this,"
Yoda spoke, "Send her, we will. But have decided, you should have authority where she ends up,"
Layla smiled, "Thank you, Masters," quickly glancing at Mace Windu. He talked to them before the meeting. "I would send her to Naboo, but Rowan is busy. He can't take care of a daughter. On the other hand, he loves her as much as I do. If he's willing to make it work, that's where she'll go and I'd like to go with her."
Mace frowned, "I'm sorry Layla, you can't go with her. You're needed here."
Layla backed down. She should have known that there was something. In a way, she would still lose her daughter. "She's my daughter. You can't keep me from being with her." She paused, "I want to be with her. I...I wish to renounce my position."
The Council was drawn aback. No one had ever renounced their position in the Order before. Ki-Adi-Mundi spoke, "You have great courage, Master Wylie. I hope you realize what you are giving up."
She nodded, "I know. And it's worth it."
"Decided it is. Your powers as a Jedi, your connection to the Force severed." Yoda stated.
Mace leaned forward, "However, Cory's won't be. For now, we will erase her memory of her lineage. When she comes of age, 14, her powers will resurface. Hopefully by then, she will understand who she is and where she came from."
The Council agreed.
"I can still go with her, right? To Naboo?"
Mace turned his gaze to Yoda. The diminutive Master nodded yes. "You can go with her." The Jedi managed a comforting smile, "May the Force be with you, Layla Wylie,"
She bowed before the Council then as she began to leave, she felt her connection with the Force cut off. Layla glanced once at the Council then walked out, leaving her life forever...
**
Qui-Gon was more than pleased that the Council moved his appointment to tomorrow. It was better that way. As he walked into his quarters, he noticed some shopping bags by the bed. Shopping bags? He realized that Ana must have already arrived. The Jedi settled down as Ana came out of the shower. He would have totally flipped if she weren't covered up.
"Oh Qui-Gon! I didn't hear you come in." She cried, tightening her robe.
Qui-Gon felt like an eighteen-year-old all over again. A beautiful woman was staying with him and his Master couldn't do anything to condone such an action, because he was the Master. "It's fine. Nice shower?"
Ana smiled, "It was great. So, did you talk to the Council?"
He nodded no, "They moved me up to tomorrow. Master Way-Lin has a meeting with them,"
Solo frowned, "So, she talked to you?"
"Yes. She did. It seems that the Council wants to take away her baby, Cory. Which is a shame since she can't be tested to be a Jedi. Her powers are very strong."
"That's strange," Ana mused. As the Jedi head into the other room to change, she turned back to Qui-Gon, "Dinner tonight?"
"I'm cooking. It's only proper since you're the guest,"
Ana frowned, "Are you good?"
Qui-Gon imitated Ana's expression.
"I'll cook." She replied, disappearing into the back room.
To Qui-Gon, it felt good to have a female presence around the apartment again. When he trained Aiden Sule, she didn't really care to be placed as a "feminine" role model. That and she couldn't stand Obi-Wan hitting on her every other minute. Ana wasn't like her, though she was her niece. She was more feminine. She played with her hair (something all girls did to make an impression) except for wearing dresses a lot unless it was a special occasion. And she had a type of security blanket - her brown leather jacket.
According to Ana, her grandfather, Han Solo, gave it to her on her 20th birthday. Like Jaina, at that age she wasn't very feminine. She had a very tomboyish look. Her femininity didn't show up until her late twenties. It was a special date for her. Han wanted to do something special for her birthday and he decided to take her on a weekend getaway to Correllia. The best part was that a festival occurred the weekend that they were there. It was exhausting but fun. On their last day, Han bought Ana that jacket. Ana loved it. She never went anywhere without it.
**
Even to dinner.
"Ana, dinner was delicious," Qui-Gon complemented.
She smiled, "Thank you," then moved forward a bit, "Qui-Gon, I think we need to talk,"
Qui-Gon frowned, "I know we do. It's going to take some time to get used to. I know this isn't going to be easy, for both of us."
Ana nodded, "I know it's going to be a little weird, but I think we can get past the hard part,"
"How?"
Ana stood up, dropped her napkin on the table and went to kiss Qui-Gon. He didn't resist. She smiled, "What's hard we'll get through together," and kissed him again.
"Qui-Gon" Ana called.
The Jedi snapped back to attention. The kiss seemed so real. He glanced at Ana. She smiled, glad she had returned to her.
"What do you think? Am I good?"
He frowned, "About what?"
"My cooking silly. What do you think?
Jinn smiled, "It was great, but do we get dessert?"
"Well, yes and no." Ana replied then stood up, "How about a dance, Master Jinn?"
The Jedi smiled, "A dance would be nice," he answered, standing up. He lightly held Ana's hands' as if he was scared he'd crush them with his. The Jedi smiled cockeyed. He didn't know if it was a dream or real.
She leaned against his chest with her eyes closed, "This is nice," she whispered.
"It is."
Ana lifted her head and removed her leather jacket. To Qui-Gon's surprise, she wore a soft peach colored lingerie. Qui-Gon gasped. By the Force, she was ravishing. Ana smiled wickedly and began to kiss the Jedi.
Once again, Qui-Gon snapped back to the present only this time he was in the comfort of his own bed and not at the dinner table. He scratched his beard. Ever since Ana moved in, Qui-Gon's fantasies had become more intense. As the Jedi turned on his side, he noticed a woman's body lying next to him. Ana turned over, grasping his stomach. Qui-Gon's eyes widened. It either wasn't a dream or it was real. There was only one way to find out. He raised his hand to head, gently stroking her hair. She flinched, facing the Jedi Master.
"Qui-Gon, wake up!"
He felt confused, seeing that he was awake but only in his dream. The Jedi closed his eyes, returning his soul back to the present. This time he was on the couch with a distorted Ana standing over him in a night robe. Her long hair was braided, hanging over her right shoulder.
The Jedi sat up, unsure if he was still dreaming, "What time is it?"
"Just after midnight. You were dreaming, intensely. I felt it. Are you okay?"
Qui-Gon nodded yes. Felt it? Does she know?
Ana smiled, pleased he was all right. As she began to head back to her own, he called, "Ana, are you okay?"
She froze and turned back to him, nodding no sitting down, "I'm not. I can't stop thinking about Layla's little girl, Cory and why the Council's sending her away. I can't help but feel there's some connection between me and Cory,"
He smiled, realizing he was definitely awake. "Maybe she's a future friend of yours. Or maybe Cory's mother is your great aunt."
Ana nodded no, "It's more than that. There's something I'm supposed to be doing. I mean, I didn't get that premonition for no reason," she paused, "You're talking to the Council tomorrow, right?"
"I am. What do you propose?"
"Maybe you can talk to them about Layla's situation, convince them that what they're doing is wrong," she cried.
He bowed his head, "I'll do what I can. But speaking of which, we need to talk,"
Ana stood up and head to the kitchen. Qui-Gon followed. She began to make tea, "Since we're both tense, I think a nice pot of hot tea is a good," she said, slightly smiling at him. "So, talk about what?"
Qui-Gon wanted to say "us" but now wasn't the time or place. "About the plan. Are you up for training tomorrow?"
She frowned, "I'm afraid I'll have to skip. Since that last premonition, I've been suffering a severe headache. I'm going to check in at the clinic tomorrow. See if the Healer's can help me,"
"Is it bad?"
Ana gazed at him, "Only a lot,"
Qui-Gon moved to her back and began massaging her temples. She dropped onto his chest, "Hmmm. That feels good,"
"Does this help?"
"I'll let you know when I feel like I'm on Cloud 9," Ana joked. After a minute, she glanced back at Qui-Gon, feeling uneasy, "Um, thanks. I feel better," and squeezed her way out of his grasp.
He nodded okay as he watched Ana picked up her glass of tea and head to her room. Qui-Gon gasped as he called Obi-Wan, using Force telepathy, Obi-Wan, I need Padawan advice,"
**
Ana frowned as she dropped onto her bed. For that one moment she was in Qui-Gon's arms, things could have gotten out of hand. She felt comfortable, safe - the way she always felt when she was in Kailin's arms. Just forget about what could have happened and go back to sleep...and forget about Master Layla and her daughter, while you're at it. she scolded herself. Ana smiled then closed her eyes, letting sleep fall over her.
**
Obi-Wan Kenobi was expecting that at some point, his former Master would seek his advice. It was obvious to him that Qui-Gon cared deeply for Ana and since she started living with him, he knew it would complicate matters. He nodded his head at his Master.
"I wanted to say to you that Ana moving in was a bad idea once I found out, but I figured you'd eventually realize that on your own," Obi-Wan joked. It felt good to be the Master instead of the apprentice.
Qui-Gon gave him a disapproving gaze which led Obi-Wan only to slightly back off.
"Why did you allow her to stay away," he continued.
The Jedi shrugged, "She asked me if she could stay at my place. I couldn't turn her away," he paused, "What I do know is, we'd better get her home before things get out of hand. Tonight, we almost kissed."
Obi-Wan smiled, intrigued. Knowing every detail about his Master's relationship with Ana was like listening to a soap opera. One minute, hormones are in check and the next minute they're not, in Qui-Gon's case of course. "Almost?"
He gruffly sat back, "On account that I had a some wine with dinner, I began to have fantasies. In the first, I asked if there was going to be any dessert to go with the meal. She replied yes and no. She asked me if I would like to dance and I nodded okay. She lifted her head and removed her leather jacket. She was wearing lingerie and she began to seduce me. Finally, I woke up in my own bed only I wasn't alone. Ana was beside me. That was when I had to know if it was real or not. I raised my hand and began to stroke her hair. She woke and turned to me, saying, 'wake up' and I did,"
A wicked smile crossed Kenobi's face, "Maybe I should start having wine with dinner so I can wake up to a series of enticing fantasies,"
"Obi-Wan!" he warned him.
"All right. No wine with dinner, but the fantasy part doesn't sound bad.,"
Qui-Gon scowled at him. "Padawan, this is serious. I don't know what I'm going to do. Ana's very special to me. You know that. If these fantasies continue, I'm fear I might do something I'll regret later."
Kenobi became serious, leaving his jovial side to rest. "You HAVE to talk to Ana. You can't put it off any longer. It's the only way your nerves won't be nerved. I can't tell you any more than that."
He smiled, agreeing with the younger man.
**
Morning rolled around a lot faster than Ana thought. She could have sworn that just a minute ago, she was up talking to Qui-Gon. Only, in that one minute it could have turned into more than talking. No Ana. Focus. Worry about what could have happened later. Right now, you need to go to the Healer's Center about your headache she told herself. She feebly crawled out of bed, got dressed and head into the main room. To Ana's dismay, Qui-Gon wasn't on the couch. She scratched her neck then went for a glass of juice. She made herself a quick breakfast and as she head out the door, Qui-Gon was there. She smiled at him.
"Qui-Gon? What are you doing up early?" she asked curiously.
He looked down, "I went in to the gym for an early exercise and meditation. The Masters like to go in there before it's officially open to the Padawan's and their Masters to practice. Sleep well?"
She nodded yes, "I did. You?"
The Jedi smiled, "Fine. Did you have breakfast?"
"Qui-Gon, I really need to get going to the Healer's Center about my headache. Maybe lunch later?"
"Lunch would be fine," he whispered then brushed past Ana to make himself breakfast.
She smiled back at him and continued out.
**
As Ana walked into the clinic, she was surprised to see Master Way-Lin sitting down on a bed for a physical. Well, maybe this wasn't a surprise. I can talk to her about Cory and maybe find out the connection I feel towards her. Ana thought as she strolled in. The Jedi turned to Ana and smiled.
"Ana Solo, right?" she asked.
"Yes and your Master Way-Lin. How are you?" Ana smiled, sitting down.
She glanced at the android that was examining her then turned her gaze back to Ana, "I'm fine. Actually, I just came down here to check my midichlorian count."
Ana nodded no, laughing, "Your Midi what?"
"I'm sorry. I forgot you're new. Midichlorian count - it's what the Masters check for in order to be tested as a Jedi. The last time I had mine checked was when I was tested to be a Jedi and that was a long time ago. I just thought I'd have a retest to see if it was normal," she later added, "I thought you knew about that."
Once again, Ana nodded no, "This is all new to me. So, I trust that matter you had with the Council was solved? I mean, you looked pretty worried when we met."
Layla frowned, "How do you know about that?"
"Um, Master Qui-Gon told me. We're close friends." She paused, trying to sound reassuring, "It's okay Layla. You can trust me."
She let her guard down, facing Ana. Somehow, she believed the girl as if she was to play some big part in her daughter's life. "Coryn's very special to me...."
Ana froze, "I'm sorry. Did you say Coryn?"
Layla nodded yes, "My daughter. You see, the Council's transporting her to Naboo to be safeguarded by my husband and I get to go with her, only...." she drifted off, distracted. "I shouldn't bother you with my troubles. Besides, you have your own exam to worry about," she concluded, referring to the attentive android in front of her.
Ana glanced at the android then back at Layla, who had disappeared.
"Actually, my headache's fine," she said, dismissing the android. She jumped off the bed and hurried out of the clinic to find Qui-Gon before he went to see the Council.
**
Ana couldn't believe that the woman sitting next to her was Coryn's mother. All that time and she couldn't piece things together. Master Way-lin is Layla Wylie, Coryn's mother. She must have changed her last name to hide herself and Coryn. Why didn't she recognize her?
She bore a strong resemblance to Coryn. Long blonde hair and blue eyes. Some freckles on her cheeks, which eventually disappeared with age. She was kind, loving which was probably due to the fact that she had that motherly aura. Ana smiled to herself. Many people had never come close enough to know their own mother, but she had the chance to talk with Layla Wylie, the mother of her student and get to know her. She was more than a Jedi Master, she was devoted mother that loved her daughter more than the Jedi Order. She could feel it from her eyes. She was willing to give up everything to be with Coryn. In her opinion, Coryn was the luckiest person in the universe to have been raised by such a woman.
**
Leia rushed into the medical lab, followed by Han and the Solo children. Once they heard about Ana's condition, each of them stopped what they were doing to be by her side. What happened to Ana was very familiar to Leia. The same thing happened to Luke after he faced Exar Kun. The good news was that it wasn't a Sith Lord that laid her on a bed. She glanced at Luke, Owen and Kailin.
"How long has she been like this?" Leia whispered, staring at Ana.
Luke turned to his sister shrugging. Leia frowned as she noticed that Coryn distanced herself from her mentor. She was afraid if she even looked at her, she'd drop on her knees and start crying. Solo couldn't blame the girl. Coryn idolized Ana the way Kyp used to idolize Han.
Kailin bent down to kiss her forehead. "Come back to us, Ana." He cried. "We need you here," He gazed at Owen, "Shouldn't Astra know?"
The boy looked down. He hadn't even thought about the princess. Astra had to know what happened. If something happened, Astra would feel awful if she weren't there by her friends' side.
"I'll call her." Owen voiced, silently leaving the room. He managed a hopeful smile at Coryn.
Her eyes were welled up in tears. After he left, Coryn stood up, quietly walking over to Ana's side. She grasped her hand, trying not to blame herself for what happened to Ana. "You can't leave me, Ana. I won't lose another friend,"
Jacen and Anakin looked at each other as if they knew some secret that was yet to be told. The twins looked back at Coryn and Ana. Both of them felt it. There was something about Ana's sudden seizure that involved Coryn.
**
Ana Solo caught Qui-Gon as he was about to enter the Council Chamber. He wasn't surprised that she showed up. Going home, back to her Coruscant meant everything to her but Qui-Gon sensed there was another reason she came to him.
"Ana, what's wrong?" he asked.
"It's Master Way-Lin. She's Coryn's mother."
The Jedi frowned, "You talked with her?"
"I did. Qui-Gon she wants her life back. I felt it."
Jinn glanced at the Council Chambers then turned to Ana, "Come with me!"
She nodded okay, obediently following him into the Council Chamber.
**
All the members were present. Mace was talking quietly with Yoda. Ana frowned. She wasn't sure if it was a good idea that she was there, but she had to voice her revelation. The Jedi bowed before the Council.
Mace spoke, "We've discussed Ana's situation in detail. Ana, your family knows that you are not really dead."
She blinked, glancing at Qui-Gon then at the Council, "Wait a minute. You said so yourself that I was dead. How can this be?"
Depa Billalaba spoke, "They're waiting for you to wake up. Ana, the longer you stay asleep, the less likely you won't be able to leave,"
Ana stepped forward, "But Masters, I know why I was sent here. It's because of Coryn's mother, Coryn Wylie. Of course, you might know her as Layla Way-Lin,"
The Jedi frowned. They had no idea that Layla was Coryn's mother. "Ana, she's quit the Order. She denounced her powers," Mace replied solemnly.
"She can't! If she denounced her powers that means Coryn will grow up without her birth mother. You have to convince her otherwise that it was a mistake,"
"Cannot. Decision, made already. Cannot be taken back," Yoda voiced.
"Coryn will not be without a mother. She'll always be there for her." Ki-Adi-Mundi stated.
Ana shook her head, "But it doesn't help. How will Coryn know how to use her powers when she's older, if she doesn't have anyone to guide her? I mean, I'll be there, but she'll be too old by then to understand and scared," She paused, "I know Coryn. She never knew of her heritage until it was too late and that guilt of losing her mother and father at an early age, I'm guessing had something to do with the fact that Layla couldn't protect herself and Coryn's father,"
"Rowan," Adi added.
"We will summon her again. Convince her otherwise. In the meantime, you should think about returning to your family. We will talk to Master Wylie. Thank you, Ana." Mace replied.
Ana smiled then glanced at Qui-Gon.
**
As she and Qui-Gon exited the chamber, Ana felt there was something important they needed to address. The Jedi walked onto the balcony. Ana smiled, remembering sharing her first kiss with Kailin on the same balcony. Now, there was something, a connection between herself and Qui-Gon that needed to be brought to light.
"Qui-Gon..." Ana began.
The Jedi turned to her. He was certain that she knew what he was thinking when she hugged him that time. "Ana, I can't help feeling this way about you. I love you, I love you as more than an friend and more than a mentor. I just hope that this doesn't change our relationship, the bond we have,"
She smiled, "Qui-Gon, if you were a twenty years younger, I would fall for you in a heart beat or, if I were twenty years older...or alive. If we get involved and it didn't work, it would hurt both of us. I don't want to lose that friendship, strong friendship that we have. It means too much to me. If I lose that, I lose part of myself. Do you understand?"
He frowned, looking down, "I understand." Then suddenly kissed Ana. She was taken aback. It was soft, gentle yet strong.
After he backed away, Ana smiled. "It still doesn't change anything. One kiss isn't going to change my mind. You should know me better than that." She paused, touching his hand, "I'll always be with you. Nothing can change that. You're my teacher, my Jedi Master, the one that taught me everything I know. And the one I'm going to use as a reference to teach Coryn of her talent."
He laughed, "You also might want to add that teaching Jedi Knights the way of the Force, isn't the only thing we do. There are classes on History, Science, Math. The Jedi aren't limited to just saving the universe. We explore other horizons."
"I think Coryn would be very happy to know that. She loves History."
After an uneasy silence, Ana spoke, "You knew the Council was lying, didn't you?"
He nodded yes, "Ana, I knew you didn't belong here to begin with. The Council can be mysterious and wrong. It takes someone with great courage to make them realize the error of their ways, someone like you,"
Solo turned away from him, a bit flustered. Ana turned back to him and smiled, "You truly are one of the greatest Jedi Masters, Qui-Gon Jinn and I'm more than thankful that I'm able to learn the knowledge you teach others." She laughed, covering her face, "I must sound like a history book. But it's true and I love you for being there for me. Thank you,"
She hugged him again. Only this time, Qui-Gon frowned gazing at the sky. It was time to let her go as much as he didn't want, he had to.
**
Kailin gasped as he watched Ana's lifeless body. The nurse said that it was highly unlikely that she'd wake up anytime soon. Coryn, Owen, Luke and Mara had stuck by her side. Han and Leia took the twins to lunch, to keep their minds off Ana's condition. Kailin held Ana's hand tight, hoping with a slight squeeze that she'd wake up. He was wrong. She was too far gone to wake up now.
Suddenly, Ana began twitching her head. Luke flinched, leaning forward. She was waking up. Kailin smiled at Owen and Coryn. Ana's brown eyes fluttered open. She gasped for air, as if surfacing from a long dive in a lake.
"Ana?! " Kailin cried.
"Coryn?" she choked. As Wylie leaned closer to, Ana smiled, "You never lost her."
Coryn frowned, confused by the statement. What did she mean by "You never lost her," she thought. She backed away as Owen hugged his sister, thanking the Force she was okay.
Mara called the nurse, alerting them of Ana's condition. Two women entered the room, checking her stats and blood pressure. They wanted to make sure there was nothing else wrong with her. Ana glanced at Luke. She sensed that even though he was happy she was all right, there was something wrong. He knew about Obi-Wan and his mother. Ana ignored the thought. That was a different issue that needed to be taken care of at a later time as delicately as possible.
Ana Solo walked around the room. Getting the feel for living again was strange. For two days in the Netherworld, she assumed she was dead when in reality, she wasn't. She was in a coma. Her spirit was simply drifting on the Netherworld plane.
The Jedi entered the room, with Astra in two this time, interrupting her thoughts. Astra. Ana hadn't seen her in weeks because she had spent so much time on Astrus. The princess walked closer to Ana's bed.
"It's okay. You can hug me,"
Astra smiled then did just that. She let go, smiling. When she heard of Ana's condition, she rushed off Astrus, taking a shuttle to Coruscant. Well, she didn't pilot it. Captain Farrell did. The Jedi was never a good pilot like her mother.
"When I heard what happened, I had to come. How are you feeling?"
Ana smiled, "I feel fine, except there's something I need to talk to Coryn about."
"Rest after this." Luke advised, leaving.
She smiled back at him as Coryn waited by the door as Han, Leia and the children filed out. Kailin bent over and kissed her forehead then followed Luke and the others' out. He smiled at Coryn as she walked closer to confront Ana.
"What did you mean by that earlier? You never lost her,"
"I mean just that. You never lost her, her referring to your mother. I met her Coryn. She's very beautiful, much like you. You were the jewel of her life. She was even willing to give up the Order to be with you."
Coryn smiled. She had no idea that her mother loved her that much.
"Her name was Layla Wylie, Master Layla Wylie. Oh, she was beautiful Coryn. Hair and eyes like yours. She even had some freckles. You don't have to search for her. She's with you, inside you. I don't know if this will help, but I hope it gives you some peace of mind that you meant the world to her, still do. You were her daughter and she loved you. And so did he,"
She frowned, "Who he? You met my father?"
Sadly, she nodded no, "I only heard of him. His name was Rowan Wylie. He was a Senator from Naboo, before Palpitine was elected. My guess is he was voted out of the Senate because of rumors of a private marriage to a female Jedi Master, your mother," Ana paused, "Listen to me Coryn your mother wanted you to be a Jedi. It was her dream for you. She wouldn't have made the sacrifices she did if she didn't love you. You don't need to search for her because she's inside you,"
She smiled, "Does she really look like me?"
Ana laughed, "She does." She paused, "I'd take it Coryn, because it's a lot more than you had a week ago,"
Coryn smiled, thankful for two reasons. One, her mentor was all right and, two, she knew a little more about her past and what she was going to be.