Adventures of Ana and Owen: New Young Jedi Knights
Book 10
"UnBroken Bonds"
By obi's girl
Summary: A year has passed after the events in Guys & Dating (Book 9); Ana Solo is focusing more of her time and energy on training and getting back into the swing of things. Kailin is on Corellia, trying to sort through his life so he drops by his by to see his sophisticated big brother, Dray. And a new threat arises.
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.
There is no such thing as a happy ending. Everything seems blissful until the last minute, when the plot begins to thicken and the problem surfaces. The complication. There's always a complication. It doesn't matter if it's small or big because it always makes matters worse than they already are.
After Kailin left, people began whispering behind Ana's back. Rookie Jedi would laugh when she came into the hall. She tried to ignore them at first, try to put them out of her mind but it was impossible. The whispers and rumors of Kailin's sudden departure were great and widely spread. Astra told her not to pay attention and they would forget and thankfully they did after eight months.
The quarrel between Kailin and Kyp was a whisper of the past. Everybody forgot what happened, except Ana. She knew they were fighting over their possession of her. Men were like that and Kyp especially disgusted her. Worst of all, he acted like it didn't mean anything. He didn't care he almost killed Kailin. What mattered to him was that he was gone and there was nobody to stop him from moving in on Ana. But she knew better. Everytime she'd see him in the hall or anywhere else in the Temple, she'd act like she didn't know what he was talking about and that she needed to focus on her training.
And it was the truth. She needed to focus on her training. Training was the only thing that kept her mind off the agony Kailin caused her. Her brother argued against it, saying Jedi didn't use training as an excuse to surpress hurt feelings but he understood she needed to focus and not let Kailin get to her.
She didn't care if Kailin was in pain because she was in as much pain, maybe even more. Ana was strong. She needed to be. Every morning when she entered the lone training room to meet Qui-Gon, she would put up barriers to shield her thoughts from him. He knew what she was doing but never said anything. Her private life was her own and he knew she needed to be shielded. She was scared of being hurt, though she would never admit it out loud. She was just scared.
Qui-Gon frowned watching her meditate. He knew she was in pain and wanted to be there for her but he couldn't do that unless she said something. The silence was unbearable. He could take it if she said something to him but to block her thoughts from his was another issue. Even though he couldn't feel her pain, he knew her heart was in turmoil and it killed him. Ana?
"Hmm?"
Do you want to talk? he continued. Qui-Gon knew what had been bothering her but he didn't want to push the subject. Kailin was her true love and to lose him without having say, hurt her even more and it was killing her inside. Qui-Gon could see that. He waved his hand, sending a comforting Force wave over her, hoping it would soothe her worries a bit.
She turned to him and smiled kindly. "I just don't want it to drag me down. I know training is important but hiding my feelings was the only thing I could do to prevent myself from crying out loud. I needed to be quiet. I needed to be alone." Ana paused, "And I'm sorry for shielding that from you. I know I should have spoken up but I was scared. If I did and I started crying, I was scared wouldn't be able to stop. Does that make any sense?"
Ana, I may not be close to you like a father but I will always be there for you as a friend and confidant. I care about you. You mean the Universe to me. Your happiness is all I care about and seeing you withdrawn and dark, is like a Sith Lightsabre through my heart. I know. That's how I died. he paused, placing his ghostly hand on hers, No matter how long it will take, I will be here to guide you and offer you comfort but you are right - you cannot let this drag you down. I know you loved him and he has proven more than once that he loved you...I don't know what he's going through but I can tell you this. He's a fool to let you go. Anybody who would let you go without giving a reasonable explanation is a fool. I just wanted you to know I'll be here, if you ever need me.
Ana smiled. "That's a pretty lengthy comfort speech Jedi Master. Thank you," She began to put her arms around him in a hug but drew back, remembering. "Sorry. I forgot,"
He nodded, I haven't,
**
Kailin stared at the broken weary Hovel as he approached it. For the latter part of his exile, he roamed the Outer Rim, trying to find peace where he could until finding himself back on Corellia - the same dust ball he swore he'd never end up staying in a thousand millennia. But there he was. He hesitated a moment before knocking. Kailin waited a minute before an older boy answered. The man had jet-black hair and piercing blue eyes. His face was just as rugged as he was and it looked like he had been trying to grow a beard or was drunk before he opened the door. He blinked a bit, shielding the sun from his eyes. Yep. He was drunk. Kailin smiled.
"How are you big brother?" he asked, smiling.
The boy frowned, dragging him inside the Hovel. Kailin laughed at him. "You're quite a mess. How long did you stay out last night, Dray?"
Dray Sun scowled. "Not long enough, seeing you're here. What do you want, Kailin?"
Kailin frowned, placing his hands in his dirty pockets. "A place to stay."
As Dray paced across the room into the kitchen, Kailin followed him intently. To his dismay, the kitchen hadn't changed a bit. It was the same. He smiled, remembering their mother leaning over the stove making breakfast. Their father had left them. She preferred to call him dead but she was wonderful and had two loving boys - well one of them anyway. Kailin faced his older brother again. "So, what about it, Dray? Give your little brother a place to stay?"
Dray opened the fridge, removing a bottle, which Kailin took to be a whiskey, hoping to brighten his mood. "I thought you were training on Yavin 4 as a Jedi. What they do? Kick you out, because you were womanizing too many of the female cadets?"
Kailin smiled, "I only had one woman, Dray and regretfully, I lost her because I let pride in my way."
He frowned, "What did you do?"
The boy shrugged, "I almost killed her ex-lover; a wise-ass Jedi Master named Kyp Durron,"
Dray's mouth gaped. "Your girlfriend dated the legendary Kyp Durron? Mother of Sith! And you let her go. Damn,"
Kailin waved his hand. "All I need is my old bedroom and I promise I won't bother you. I just need to think and find peace. Nothing else."
He stood up from his chair, muffling the boys' hair, "All right. But this isn't a free ride. I know we're family but you have to work. This is Corellia after all. Nothing is ever free unless it's smuggled in."
"That's fair." Kailin paused, "And I promise you won't regret it."
"Oh, I already do. But welcome home little bro," Dray replied, patting his shoulder.
"Yeah. Home." Kailin mumbled back, his eyes drifting.
**
Owen Solo stood back watching as the princess attempted Astral Projection. Astra always wanted an active power and now her wish had been granted. Her spiritual body appeared. She looked up, glancing at Owen, smiled to herself then attempted to pick up her lightsabre which was lying on a table.
Focus Astra, Owen sent.
As she reached for it, the princess jerked back into her body. Astra opened her eyes feeling disappointed. "I almost had it. I was so close," she cried.
Owen shrugged, "You tried."
Astra nodded no, scolding herself. "But I wanted to pick up my saber. I focused all my energy, all my strength. What did I do wrong?"
"Maybe nothing. Maybe you were trying too hard. It happens. It's no big deal."
The princess sat down on the stage, frowning. "But it does. Owen, I have an active power. Something I always wished for and I don't even know how to control it,"
He sat next to her, "Astra, you gained this power only recently. It surprised you and now you're expecting you can control it right off the bat? It doesn't work like that. You have to pace yourself; give yourself time to get a feel for projecting before trying to expand it. Believe me, it will go smoother," Owen paused, "Have you been able to talk to Ana?"
She nodded no, "She's been training non-stop since her arrival. Even teaching Coryn has stopped. Wylie doesn't mind. It gives her more time to teach classes,"
Owen nodded, "I told her training right away was a bad idea. I don't know why she didn't listen to me"
Astra smiled, "Maybe it was because she didn't wish to be treated like a child. You said to give myself time practicing; maybe you should give Ana time. She's been through a lot,"
The Jedi smiled, agreeing with her, "All right. I'll give her time," he paused, getting up, "But remember what I said. Give yourself time to learn your power before jumping into things." And left.
***
Qui-Gon's sweet eyes stared at Ana. He felt she was still disturbed about Kailin. She didn't want to let him go but she had no choice and no say. The Jedi wanted to wrap his arms around her and keep her safe from other toils that might crush her broken heart. He still had deep feelings for her, despite the conversation they had about letting go of that feeling. He couldn't help it. She was vulnerable, delicate and hurt - a hurt he wanted to soothe away but it wasn't his place, or was it?
Ana meant so much to him and though she was his apprentice, her happiness was all he cared about. He hated seeing her in such pain. Qui-Gon reached out, brushing her shoulder. She looked up at him.
"I'm okay." She whispered before sudennly turning away. Ana fell to the floor as the violent vision hit her without warning. Qui-Gon dropped to her side, holding her waist.
She saw Astra but it wasn't her. The princess stood still with her eyes closed, slumped over but there was something unusual. She saw another girl - same features, same hair color, clothes, and face. She attempted to move her lightsabre. Astra stared hard at the weapon before it abruptly turned on her, slashing her left arm. Sparks flew from the attack, causing Astra to shield her eyes and forcing her to project back into her own body. The princess stumbled a bit before falling onto the stage, placing her other arm over her wound, trying to stop the blood from pouring out.
Ana opened her eyes. She felt Qui-Gon's comfort but ignored it. "I have to go." She cried, standing up. "Astra's in trouble," and ran out, grabbing her lightsabre and jacket.
***
Dray watched his brother as he meditated quietly in his room. It was good to see Kailin but there was a down side. The downside: Seeing his brother made him regret not going with him to Yavin 4 to train as a Jedi. On the other hand, it was nice to see family. Kailin was his family, his only family. Their mother - she was a wonderful woman for putting up with them as boys but she always seemed to be sad about something. What? They never knew. Maybe it was not having a father around to help raise two boys, but Kailin always had a feeling it was something else.
It was. On her deathbed, she told Dray who their blood father was. He was a Jedi named was Sean Owen McGillis. He wasn't old. Sean was about 26 years old when he met their mother. She fell instantly in love with him. On their first night together, he revealed to her he was a Jedi Padawan and that the consequences of being with her before being Knighted were great but he didn't care. His life was already set that night and she immediately became pregnant.
But even though the child was his, they couldn't marry. Sean left seven months before the child was to be born and returned to the Temple to face the truth. He was banished from the Order and stripped of his apprenticeship and was forced to join the Agricultural Corps. On his way over on a shuttle, he hit the pilot over the head and crashed it. The impact was great and everyone on board was killed instantly.
Dray was born first, shortly followed by Kailin. She made Dray promise to always to be there for his brother no matter what and that he could never know whom his father was. She knew Jedi characteristics resided in her boys but she didn't want to let on because she didn't want to lose the two loves of her life.
Now Kailin was back to find peace with himself and the pain he caused Ana his love. And as the saying goes, "Home is where the Heart is," and his Heart belonged to Corellia and to Ana a difference that wasn't lost to him.
Kailin was somebody Dray didn't want to become because he didn't want to be like his father. He knew Sean cared about their mother but to leave her without notice in the deep of the night and abandon her forever was unforgivable. Truth was, she died of a broken heart. For the first 15 years of their lives she remained strong until the day came she couldn't bear the grief anymore and died.
The grief always stayed with him and during the years Kailin was gone, he made up for his grief by getting drunk and having a new woman lay next to him every morning. It was a mistake. He knew that but it was the only way he knew how to deal.
Nothing pleased him until a certain young girl came along, the same young girl that took a fancy to Kailin years earlier before he discovered his heritage. She had Jet-black hair, dark sea-blue eyes, and a smile to melt a man's heart and a body to die for. He didn't really know her name. She was a professional hooker, something that wasn't a surprise. Most of the teenage girls that hung around the streets of Corellia were hookers but this girl was different. She struck quickly at her prey like a Raven and had the stamina of a coyote.
He frowned, thinking about her. Dray glanced again at Kailin's room. He was asleep now, collapsed on his bed and tired from meditating. Dray turned, heading down the hallway and back towards the kitchen. He noticed the door was open and went to shut it. As he shut it closed, a sweet voice purred from the wind.
"Is he here?" she asked.
Dray didn't have to face her to know who she was. "Leave us alone. He doesn't need to see you to mend his broken heart."
She smiled, walking toward him. Her arms slithered around his back and stomach, "What about you Dray? Do you need me?"
He nodded, "Sorry. I stopped hanging out with hookers a long time ago. I was naive and young. I didn't know any better,"
She snarled, backing away. "Neither did he and he left once he learned who he was. He never even gave me a kiss good bye. He just left and didn't look back. He shut us out of his life a long time ago, spatting on us like ants."
"I said my goodbye." Dray returned angrily.
She licked her lips, "But I never got to and now he's back I may just have that chance," and vanished.
Dray turned around, looking for the girl. She was gone. "Except his heart doesn't belong to you, Veniqua."
**
Ana Solo rushed everywhere in the Temple, looking for Astra Sule. She had a vision the princess hurt herself, using what looked like astral projection. Astra was trying to move objects while in her astral state something that was very dangerous if not mastered. It didn't make any sense to Ana until she realized Astra had an active power. A smile crossed her face but quickly faded into a frown. She stopped, smelling whiffs of smoke coming from the auditorium. Ana rushed into the room to find a disappointed Astra, holding her arm. No one else was with her. Stupid girl! Ana thought.
Astra was trying to see if she could wield her lightsabre while projecting. Ana nodded her head no, then helped her walk to the door...
**
"You shouldn't have been working by yourself, you know." Ana scolded her as the princess sat on the med. Bed. A droid ran a scanner over her arm, healing the burn. Astra winced a bit.
"I know. But I wanted to try so badly." The girl admitted.
Ana gasped, trying to let go. Astra knew she made a mistake and that was enough. But the princess had a responsibility to herself to maintain such a complicated power. "Who else have you told about your new power?"
"Owen. You of course, but no one else - except maybe Kailin and Kyp. They saw me project when I intervened to stop them..."
Ana frowned, trying not to think of Kailin. Kailin Sun hurt her more than Kyp ever could. They almost killed each other if it hadn't been for Astra. The princess tried to mediate between the two and because of the confrontation Ana was left with a broken heart. She looked again at Astra.
"Just be careful, Astra. If you're going to enhance your power you should take it slow and have someone with you at all times. We're not risking anybody over toying with what we can do," Ana concluded, leaving her.
Astra shrugged, seeing to her healed wound.
**
Outside the healers' Solo could hear someone call her name from behind.
Ana cringed, recognizing whom it was. Kyp Durron. He was the down part of not having Kailin around. Everytime Kyp would catch her in the hall or in class, he'd act like the "comforting friend" which disgusted her. She just wanted him to leave her alone, but unfortunately Kyp Durron wasn't going to disappear anytime soon. She reluctantly turned around, facing her former lover.
"Kyp, how nice to see you," Ana replied with false enthusiasm.
He walked closer to Ana, smiling. "Ana Solo, you just get lovelier and lovelier everytime I see you,"
Solo rolled her eyes, not impressed. "Kyp, I'm not really in the mood to talk to you and hear your nauseating flattery comments. I have to meet my Master," she retorted, brushing past him.
"Master Qui-Gon Jinn. I know him. You're lucky to have an excellent teacher,"
She froze and turned back to him, "How do you know my Master?" Ana asked icily, glaring at him.
"He was the Orders' best marksman and the most stubborn, which I regretfully, I think you've inherited."
Ana smiled sarcastically, "You know Kyp, don't think I don't what you're doing. I know why you're sucking up to me. I'm not dumb. Now that Kailin isn't around, your male ego probably figures you can move in on me and make me yours again," she paused, "I'm not that desperate either," and continued down the corridor.
**
Dray leaned back on the kitchen chair as Kailin ran down the stairs. He didn't seem worried just anxious to leave. "Anything wrong, little bro?" he asked.
Kailin turned to him, smiling. "I'm fine. I just need to get some air. I've been inside all day." And left the Hovel.
The older boy frowned, knowing Veniqua would follow him.
**
Mara Jade felt her stomach. Though she was only pregnant for 10.5 months, she was lucky enough not to suffer through extreme cravings. Whenever she felt a strong craving approaching, Mara would meditate telling herself it was trick to make her fatter than she should be. It was also because she didn't want to work-off the extra fat after the pregnancy. Working a diet and exercising day after day, in her opinion would be Hell.
And Luke. The Jedi Master vowed to stay by her side day in and day out which was sweet at first but now it was getting on her nerves. She knew Luke loved her but to wait on her hand and foot - be there every second she'd turn around was driving her crazy. However, when Mara told him she needed to be alone, alone by herself without being watched over Luke was relieved. He left her to herself and wandered off somewhere.
Mara sighed to herself, "Peace and quiet, finally,"
A golden head popped out from the living room, startling her. The droid walked forward next to Mara's bed. She grunted to herself, finally looking at Threepio. "Let me guess. Luke sent you to take care of me?"
"Oh yes, Lady Skywalker! Master Luke wants to make sure you have all your needs attended to while you carry," Threepio bolstered.
Mara smiled to herself, I swear I'm going to kill that husband of mine,
**
"So kid, how's Mara doing?" Han asked, sitting down across from his brother-in-law. When Luke told him Mara relieved him, the Corellian immediately took the Jedi to the UnderGround to "relax" which meant drinking liquor and coaxing Luke into a Sabbac game.
Luke smiled, slouching back, "Relieved and guilty. I left Threepio to attend to Mara's needs. I know my wife. She'll either lock him up in the closet, comply to my wishes or chew my head off," he paused, "but not in the order,"
Han laughed. He knew Threepio could be an annoyance even if the droid didn't mean to be but he was helpful when he meant to be. "You probably should have sent R2 instead. At least all you hear from that little guy is a series of whistles and beeps,"
Luke shrugged, "Probably. But I need R2 to assist me. Besides, Mara has a medium-tolerance,"
Han rolled his eyes, "Yeah, medium-tolerance my ass!" taking another drink.
**
"Sorry Master Qui-Gon. I had to go," Ana cried, entering the old gym.
The Jedi Master smiled, assuring her it was okay. Is Astra all right?
She nodded, feeling somewhat doubtful. Astra was a headstrong girl. Ana knew the princess would keep trying to develop her powers without guidance. The young girl was stubborn like that. Ana had to admit to herself, if she received an active power she'd probably act the same way. But Ana realized, if no one watched Astra, maintaining an active power would prove to be very dangerous.
Ana smiled, "She'll be fine. Astra's an adult, a responsible adult. I know she'll be reckless but there's nothing I can do about it,"
Qui-Gon frowned, Astra's not what's bothering you. What's wrong?
The girl relented, dropping onto the map sitting Indian style. "You know me almost too well, Qui-Gon Jinn." She smiled, "I miss Kailin. Not having him around I feel alone. And Kyp! I can't deal with his ego. He's so determined to get me back,"
He looked down, Then I can't teach you anymore if you are unfocused. You need to be focused in order to control your visions,
"But I need to train to use telepathy,"
Qui-Gon nodded no, You have to. Telepathy also takes focus, another important trait a Jedi must learn and master, he paused, But I understand your concern. You love Kailin. I can't stop you from loving him. We're finished for today. You can rest,
Ana didn't move, feeling guilty for dragging her problems on her Master. He was weary; they both were. She smiled at him, "No. I'm not leaving. You've gone out of your way to train me and we've come a long way. It wouldn't be fair to waste your time because I feel depressed." She paused, "You're not getting rid of me that easily, Master Jinn. Not by a long shot,"
He smiled, Begin the exercise again. Slow breaths. You need to be calm. Only when calm, can you feel the energy of the Force surrounding you and guiding you,
Ana closed her eyes, doing as he Master instructed. He smiled. "Master Jinn, I won't fail you. I promise," she whispered through meditation.
I know you won't.
**
Kailin Sun covered his face from the blazing sun as he walked the streets of Corellia's famed marketplace. When he was boy, he would go with mother whenever she shopped for food or bartered for clothing. He missed her. Being in the market place reminded him of that lost time. She was so special to him, as Ana was - still was.
No, don't think about her. You caused her great pain, he told himself.
The boy stopped, gazing back down the street. To his dismay, there weren't many shoppers going around to each stand arguing with venders. Corellia was alive at one time but he was young then. It seemed alive to him then because he was a child. Now he was adult. Nothing seemed alive to him anymore. As he turned back, he noticed a shadowy figure following him. Kailin paid no attention to the stranger and kept walking.
As he began to round another corner into an alley, the stranger met him. He started to reach for his lightsabre, but sensed he knew who the stranger was. Kailin's face-hardened as he pulled back the ghost's hood. Her hand grabbed his. He struggled to let go. She laughed. That laugh. It sounded familiar. She finally let go, causing him to drop onto the dirty ground.
She knelt down, licking his face - a gesture he surely recognized. No. It couldn't be her. She disappeared. It couldn't be, he thought to himself. He reached up, careful not to alarm her. She didn't grab his wrist. He pulled back the hood, revealing her dark main and green eyes. "Veniqua,"
She straddled his chest, "I'm not dead, Kailin. You can touch me if you want I won't mind,"
He pushed her off him, growling fiercely. Her hair rolled over her neck. Her eyes were lustful, the same lust he felt for her many years ago before he was a Jedi. "What's the matter Kailin? Think you're seeing a ghost?"
The boy nodded, "You disappeared..."
She stood up, brushing off the sand from her black body suit and gloves. "I thought I died. When you left, I felt my entire being die."
"Probably should have," he retorted, starting off.
Veniqua slithered her way, grasping his back, "You came back for a reason, Kailin. You came back because this is your only home. You can't deny what you once were. I made you,"
He smiled, flipping her over himself. She fell onto the ground, laughing. "I don't think so, Veniqua. I made my own destiny. I made who I am, not you,"
"Yeah, but who gave the nickname Ladies Man?" she shouted back, "I did. You can't walk away from me. I'm a part of you."
He smiled again, "Not in this lifetime,"
She shrugged, "That's all right. I'll find some other way to get to you. It shouldn't be too hard. I know who you are,"
Before he could rebut, she disappeared.
**
Kailin rushed into the Hovel, startling his older brother. Dray stood up, noticing his foul mood. His eyes were piercing and added his chin sharp from not shaving. "Why didn't you tell me she was here?"
"Veniqua? You saw her?" he asked, astonished.
The Jedi nodded his head, "Don't play dumb with me, big brother. I know you knew she was here. Why didn't you tell me?"
"Kailin, I didn't know she was still on Corellia. I thought she left, like you did. She must have been staying in the UnderGround."
He nodded no, shoving him against the wall, "I don't need to revisit my past. I just came here to find peace. I don't need to deal with her."
"Except she'd both of your pasts, Kailin. We were young once. There's no question there." He continued, "You just forgot who you are. You've been staying with the Jedi far too long. You don't know who you are and to tell you the truth, I don't know who you are either,"
Kailin let him go, realizing it was the truth. He had forgotten who he was. Where he came from, who his real family was the darkest time in his life. He had forgotten it all. The Jedi replaced all he knew and loved. Dray straightened up.
"I stayed because I never wanted to forget who I was." He stated, brushing himself.
He frowned, turning to him, "Then who am I, Dray? I don't remember the face of my father. I hardly remember seeing mom smile. She was always sad and you shielded me from an unseen enemy I don't know. Who am I?"
Dray gestured he sit down. He paced himself, "A long time ago, on our mother's death bed - she told me a secret I still keep today."
Kailin fell silent.
"It's no coincidence you have remarkable powers as a Jedi, little bro. It's no surprise because our father was a Jedi,"
Kailin sat down, willing and yet unwilling to hear the rest of the story.
**
Coryn Wylie brushed her blonde hair over to her right shoulder as she reviewed today's lesson plan. After some effort and courage, she called Master Skywalker asking to have her own class, specifically teaching beyond the Jedi boundary. He agreed.
She ran her fingertips along the computer pad. Coryn never planned on being a T.A. much less having her own class. It was a dream come true. Though she had to admit, she missed the face of a particular student - Ana Solo. She knew her former teacher would be proud of her but she missed having the older girl around.
Coryn looked up to Ana for many reasons - one of them bringing to light her innate talent in the Force. It was Ana who recognized she was special from their first encounter. Slash that. Ana didn't know right away but after waking up in an entirely different setting and time, Ana realized she was special. It was also Ana that prompted her to continue her training though she had doubts about her future as a Jedi.
She glanced up again, noticing Astra and Owen entering the room. She smiled at them, but her gaze particularly fixated on Owen. Owen smiled at Coryn.
Owen Solo was also another positive aspect of her life. At first, she wanted to focus on her training and only her training but Owen and his big heart brushed her aside, overwhelming her. He whispered something to Astra then walked over casually, leaning on the desk.
"So, you finally got your own class. Congratulations," he smiled, adding a slight bow, "Master Wylie."
Coryn waved her hand, "I'm not a Jedi Master, Owen. Just a T.A that got lucky," she gasped, taking a peek at the door.
Owen frowned. "I'm sure she'd be proud of you, Coryn. Don't worry about her," he said, referring to his elder sister.
She nodded, "I know. I just feel on my own here and it's scary. I've never been without Ana before. I mean, I know we agreed to focus on our individual training but I still feel I need her approval on some things, like being a full time teacher,"
The boy reached up, placing his hand on her right shoulder, where a chunk of her blonde hair fell down to her waist. "You'll do great as you always do. Besides, you have me here." Kissing her cheek.
Things would have gone farther but the class starting "Ooo" ing at them. Owen backed away, taking his seat next to Astra. Coryn blushed, noticing a wink from him as he sat down.
Astra nudged him, "Nice performance, Solo,"
He flashed a glare at the princess before turning his attention onto a particularly beautiful blonde woman. Coryn blushed but pushed it aside, standing up behind the desk. She didn't quite know what to wear so she grabbed a white blouse, light brown vest, dark brown padded pants and boots and the extra of her lightsabre hung from her belt. Owen nodded, urging her to begin. Coryn smiled at him.
Before she could even open her mouth however, Kyp walked in. He smiled curtly at the students, leaving scowls on Coryn, Owen and Astra's faces. He turned to Coryn. Her arms were crossed and her eyes narrowed.
"I'm sorry if I interrupted. I was held up." He apologized, standing off to the stand.
Coryn rolled her eyes, grabbing the data pad, "I'm sure you were," she mumbled.
Kyp heard the comment but didn't retort, allowing her to continue the lesson. She smiled more graciously at the students. "Now, as I was about to say. I talked with Master Skywalker and he has agreed, I can expand your education and teach material beyond the usual requirements," She paused a moment, waiting for rebut from Kyp. She received none abling her to continue. "Before his grand niece found me I studied Science-Geography, Universal Geography and Geology. Currently, what you have been learning are basic Jedi exercises to enhance your power but you should enhance your mind as well," she concluded, tapping her head for emphasis.
Owen raised his hand, smiling at Coryn, "What about you Master Durron? Do you agree with Miss Wylie and Master Skywalker?"
He stood up, straightening his tunic, quickly glancing at Coryn. She stood firm. "Expanding ones' horizons is important. The Jedi shouldn't be limited to using only the Force and our Lightsabres. It is especially helpful to know the history about different races as we encounter them." He paused, smiling at Coryn though she didn't face him, "I applaud your tactics Miss Wylie. You are yet to become a wonderful and no doubt an excellent Jedi Master in the making,"
She turned to him, smiling a bit, "Thank you, Kyp," Coryn faced the students again, this time gesturing for Owen and Astra to hand out the data pads she compiled. The boy stood up after Astra, grabbing a few data pads and giving her wink. They distributed what they could then sat down. "Now, let's begin today's lesson: Science-Geography."
**
To Luke's dismay, his brother-in-law had gotten himself really drunk, really fast. They had been in the UnderWorld for more than 10 hours, either gambling or drinking. Han did both. Luke tried to suppress a laugh as he tried to get up from his chair. The Jedi chose to be sober, a choice Han labeled as a "typical Jedi Master reaction" and it was. Ever since Ana decided to train, he had been taken being a Jedi Master more seriously. And going out with Han to a bar to gamble and get drunk was unfitting of a Jedi, even a Master.
He thought about calling Leia to pick up her husband but knowing his sister's temper, she'd not only flip out but give Han and maybe himself, an entire lecture. And he didn't want to call Mara. She was already in a bad mood because he stuck her with Threepio who was probably already in the closet. The Jedi looked again at Han.
He waved his hand, grudgingly keeping himself from not throwing up, "Don't worry about me, Luke. I'll be fine. You just go on and to home to your wife. I'll be fine," falling onto the ground.
Luke nodded no. That was it. He wasn't going to leave Han alone in the UnderWorld drunk. "No Han. I'm not leaving you alone to get even more drunk," he stated, helping him to his feet. "Come on, buddy,"
"Okay mom. Okay. I won't stay up late on a school night. Just don't yell at me and point a gun in my face!" he murmured, causing Luke to laugh a bit.
As they turned to leave, Luke heard a familiar set of footsteps behind him. "Luke Skywalker, I'm going to kill you," the woman snarled.
Luke turned around, swinging Han's arm over to his other side. His wife stood before him and Mara didn't look happy. "Mara, what's wrong?"
"You left me with Threepio. I spent 10 hours having to listen to your droid go on and on, and being by my side every second, minute and hour. And you know what, I've had it," she paused, "You're going to die Skywalker! You got me like this and now you're gonna to pay," she snarled back, unclipping her lightsabre.
The Jedi dropped Han to the floor as he sudennly realized Mara wasn't kidding. She held her lightsabre, igniting its blade and ready to strike. "Mara, I'm sorry I left you with Threepio. It was a bad decision. I know that."
By that point, everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at the spectacle. Mara continued, "I've been carrying for 10.5 months and I'm sick of it," she swung at 10:00 and it was a dangerous one. Luke ducked, rolling himself farther away from his wife's wrath. She laughed crazily.
"Mara, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I got you pregnant and stuck you with C3P0 instead of R2."
She shrugged, disengaging her lightsabre and hooked it again on her belt, "Just as long as you learned your lesson," Mara paused, smiling, "And I'll take R2." The woman turned on her heel and abruptly left the hall, glaring dangerously at curious onlookers. One person didn't catch the gaze. Mara reached down, taking the man by the shirt and shoving him onto a table creating a loud crash.
Luke breathed more steadily, smiling like an idiot, "Yeah Honey, it was nice of being some service," grabbing Han's arm once again and dragging him to his feet.
**
Kailin Sun slammed another piece of clothing into his sack. He now knew he had to return to Yavin. The Jedi couldn't stay, after the story - the story of his family. His father, a man he hardly even knew, was a Padawan or Knight or some rank of the Jedi and he had an affair with his mother, impregnating her. So to him, he was the nasty result of that adulteress affair. Because of that, he decided to return to Yavin to make his disappearance more complete. He was going to say good bye to his love Ana Solo. The Jedi refused to hurt her more than she deserved. He refused to make the same mistake his father did. He stopped at half-pace, trying to slow his mind.
"Kailin?" a voice asked.
"Go away Dray!" he retorted, shoving some more clothes into the sack, "I know what I have to do,"
The elder man stepped forward, "And what would that be? Breaking Ana's heart the same our father broke our mothers?" He paused, turning his brother to face him, "You are not him, Kay. You have a chance, a chance to not repeat his mistakes. But instead you're running away from it."
Kailin glared up at him, "I took a vow when I became a Jedi. I would never dishonor what they stood for. But I have and now it's time..."
"To what? Take the blame for what he did?" Dray retorted, "You aren't him. You and Ana - you two have a chance to make things work but you're retreating away because your too scared to make them work,"
He shoved his hand off his shoulder, "Don't presume to understand me, Dray! We don't even understand each other. But I do understand I can't hurt Ana anymore. I won't,"
Dray dropped his shoulders, "Then let me come with me. Someone needs to keep an eye on you while you pilot and you're not exactly in condition,"
Kailin laughed, "Not in condition? I have my shuttle on automatic pilot, direct flight to Yavin non-stop." He paused, grinding his teeth, "I don't need you along,"
"I'm not asking you take me with you. I'm going!" he retorted, exiting the room in a roar.
Veniqua smiled, hearing the exchange. She heard Dray rush off and immediately did the same...
**
Jacen Solo tried to hide his grin as he entered the UnderWorld. He knew his aunt's attitude could be lethal but the mess she created in her wake, looked like a Bantha could have done it. Luke called him to assist him with Han. The boy spotted them at a booth.
Luke waved him over. Jacen smiled at him then frowned as he realized how drunk his father was. "Sorry to bother you Jacen..." Luke began.
He nodded no, "It's all right. Actually I needed to talk to you about something,"
The Jedi nodded, "But first help me with Han,"
**
By some miracle, Leia wasn't in. Luke surmised she must either be in the Senate building doing some work or out somewhere else. The Jedi dragged the Corellian into the apartment dropping him or lightly putting him on the bed. Luke huffed, rejoining Jacen in the main room. He gazed at the boy as he looked around the familiar family apartment where he grew up. Actually, he didn't. He moved all over the place because of talent for the Force as a Jedi. No place for him could really be called home because he'd known so many.
"What did you need to talk to me about?" the Jedi asked, interrupting the boy's thoughts.
Jacen smiled, turning at a 90° angle. "Astra called me earlier regarding Ana. She's been focusing more of her time on training, but she's concerned."
Luke didn't reply, allowing his nephew to continue. "At first I thought it was great Ana was taking her training more seriously..."
"But?"
The boy frowned, "But unfortunately, the reason for her sudden interest is personal and hurtful," he paused, lowering his head, "Kailin is gone. He's been gone for several months now."
Luke frowned. He had learned Ana returned to Yavin after Aiden showed up again before returning directly to Astrus. The Queen was honest as she always was but convinced him she'd be fine. He believed her. Aiden was his trusted friend and a former Apprentice. He stroked his chin, thinking what could have driven Kailin way and one name sprung to his mind: Kyp Durron. It was the only logical reason for Kailin's departure.
"What did he do?" he asked.
Jacen shrugged, "I don't know but he drove Kailin away from Ana and now she's miserable."
"She's trying to hide her grief by training more and focusing on the now and not the past. This can be dangerous." Luke examined, "You must go to Yavin and talk to her and Kyp. I know she can't be happy, having to deal with Durron every day."
Jacen frowned a bit, "And the last thing anybody needs letting this consume her and drag her into an even deeper depression." He shrugged off the memory of the nightmare, facing Luke directly, "I'm ready. I already have my things packed."
"Good." He concluded, "And thank you Jacen for helping me,"
The boy smiled, nodding his gratitude. Luke smiled, disappearing from the door.
**
Though the shuttle was on autopilot, Kailin's hands ran over the console, almost making his brother dizzy. Dray smiled watching the boy. Since they left Corellia, no words were spoken between them. It was funny. Kailin came to Corellia to find "peace" as he called it and be with his family, and now he did, he wanted to get away from it. Some family. Kailin wasn't exactly sure why Dray dragged himself along on his little trip, but he knew it had something to do with doing the right thing. Big brothers were like that. Finally, after running his hands over the console for no reason, he turned and faced Dray. He smiled at him but quickly turned the smile into a frown. He was still angry with him.
"Look Kay, like I said before..." Dray began.
He waved his hand, "I don't want to talk about it, Dray. Past is past. There's nothing either of us can do about it."
Dray looked down, "Except you did." He paused, sitting forward, haunched over on his thighs, "You became a Jedi, something greater than what we were brought up in."
Kailin nodded, "I didn't know I was a Jedi until it was too late. I trained old." He shrugged, "It's no wander why I hurt Ana. I wasn't experienced."
"Kailin, our father was a Jedi. Though his power was great, he couldn't save our mother from dying from a broken heart. But maybe you can save Ana. You're his redemption, his chance to start over and not make the same mistakes he did."
He smiled, "I thought you said I wasn't him,"
Dray smiled back, "That's what I am saying, little bro. You're not him," he paused, "I've always been proud of you, Kailin. You became something I didn't want to be because of Sean. Now, you're going to leave that life because you hurt Ana? It's selfish and stupid. You can be something and you're throwing it away!"
Kailin stood up abruptly, glaring down at Dray, "That's just the thing. I'm not anything. Where I came from and who I am now, it doesn't make sense." He shrugged, "I mean, why did mom fall for him, why did Sean fall for her? She was nothing."
He nodded, smiling a bit, "Because it was the Will of the Force, Kailin. If Sean hadn't appeared on Corellia, you and I wouldn't be here having this conversation and Ana, she would live the rest of her life not really realizing if she could ever love again," Dray paused, "I know I'm not versed in the Jedi way, Kay. I haven't been much of a big brother either, but just take this advice: You have something precious - Ana. You can't loose her. She makes you whole. If you lose her, you'll lose that light inside of you that's struggling to survive," He paused, "and if you lose her, you'll lose that light and I don't think you want that."
The boy didn't reply except sit back down on the pilot's chair. Dray nodded, looking out the dorsal window of the craft.
**
Ana Solo winced out of meditation feeling a grave disturbance in the Force. It was a sharp instinct, not even a premonition but it was clear. Qui-Gon noticed her. His expression read "What now?" Ana shook her head, unsure what to make of the feeling. It seemed familiar to her. She turned towards the doorway, noticing a silhouette standing in the hallway. He walked forward with great ease, nodding to Ana and Qui-Gon. The Jedi removed his hood. Ana smiled recognizing who it was.
"Uncle Jacen!" she cried, hugging him.
Qui-Gon nodded to the boy, but was unsure why he made the trip to Yavin. He let go of Ana, gazing at the Jedi Master then back at Ana. It wasn't very often she'd get the chance to see one of her family (Owen and Astra she knew) but Jacen was one of her favorites.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, sitting down. Jacen followed, hesitating a moment to answer. Ana frowned, "You came because you heard about what happened to Kailin, didn't you?"
He nodded yes, "What happened? What did Kyp do?"
She shrugged, "Kyp's arrogant. He let his ego in the way, something that isn't much of a surprise," she paused, "I miss Kailin. He's been gone far too long, too long I'm starting to think he may not come back,"
Jacen gazed again at Qui-Gon. He smiled down at his niece, "He will come back, Ana. You mean so much to him."
Ana looked down, "Jacen, he left because of me. He left because he didn't want to hurt me, because he thought I brought out the dark side in him,"
Qui-Gon nodded, getting up. Ana noticed him. She had forgotten he was even in the room. "Um, Jacen, meet Master Qui-Gon Jinn. He was...the Master of Kenobi,"
The boy smiled, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Master Jinn." He paused, touching Ana's hand, "Has my niece been an obedient student?"
He laughed, She's stubborn sometimes, but I expect that. Not everybody is forthcoming when it comes to training. But I expect nothing else, since she is a second generation Skywalker,
"Her mother is equally as stubborn. She loved being a pilot more than being a Jedi. Only now, since Jainy's a mother, flying and taking care of family, is bothersome. She practices. I can still beat her in a duel but it's this girl, that's more a challenge,"
Ana smirked, "Are you challenging me, Uncle?"
Jacen hesitated, wishing he hadn't said what he did. Ana stood up abruptly, towering over him. The boy laughed, standing up after him. "Ana, I didn't mean...I mean I know you're great. It's in your blood..."
She nodded, "Just ignite your lightsabre uncle and we'll see who's good," teasing him a bit.
The boy looked to the Jedi Master for referee but Qui-Gon didn't say anything, except nod good luck to Ana. Great. He's on her side. Teacher's Pet, Jacen unclasped his lightsabre, igniting it's light blue blade. His eyes narrowed on Ana. "Ana, we really don't..."
"What are you chicken?" she blurted. "I've been practicing for months. I haven't really gone up against Astra, Owen or Coryn. So you'll just have to do,"
Before the boy could reply, Ana struck at him. Jacen ducked, rolling off to the side. Ana nodded her head. Jacen smiled a bit, flipping back into a stance position. He hadn't really expected to get into a duel with his niece. He expected to talk things out. However, maybe he could use this opportunity to do just that. He smiled, "All right. If we're going to do this. We play by my rules."
Ana panted, "And what are the rules?"
"You tell me what happened between You, Kailin and Kyp. Nothing held back. Agreed,"
She thought a moment then shook her head, striking his sabre again, "Agreed!"
Qui-Gon laughed, applauding the boy's tactics at getting information out of Ana. He would have never thought to use dueling as means to ply the truth out of her.
Jacen back flipped over Ana. He hit his sabre on hers releasing several crackling sounds. Ana rolled over his back, tumbling onto the other side of the mat. "All right, enough play. What happened between Kyp and Kailin?"
She shrugged, jumping back up again, "Kyp has an ego the size of a Bantha. He over heard a private conversation between Kailin and Astra, involving me when I sick. He dismissed the rest of the class. Kailin was the last to leave but Kyp held him up, bantering him with questions about me. Kay got annoyed and things got ugly,"
The boy frowned, recklessly letting down his guard leaving an open space for Ana to kick him with the but of her sabre. Jacen caught it with his hand, eyeing her. "How did things get ugly?"
Ana shrugged again, "I didn't really ask. All I know is, after that small attack, things heated up. Kyp and Kay were bound to head into another fight with each other." She paused, "If Astra wasn't present in both locations, they probably would have killed each other,"
"Astra mediated between the two?"
She nodded yes, "Owen didn't really help. He knew some conflict was bound to happen, he just didn't know when. Of course, he's a boy. Fighting is always the easy way to solve things. That's how you males work," There was a slight hint of frustration in her voice and Jacen understood why.
Jacen dropped to the floor as Ana swept her sabre over his back. He grabbed her foot, dropping her to the floor as well and disengaging her lightsabre. She nodded to him. "That was an unfair move,"
He waved her off, ignoring the comment, "So now you're focusing on your training to get your mind of what happened between you, Kyp and Kailin,"
"From the start, Kay promised he'd never hurt me and he did. They both did and I'm suffering the consequences because of that." She paused, "Even if Kailin came back from where ever he is, I don't know if I'd hug him or kill him,"
Jacen nodded, extending his hand to her. She took it, standing up smiling thanks. "It was a great work out, Jacen. Thanks,"
He grabbed her in a hug, "That's what uncles are for. And I'm sorry about the last move,"
Ana smiled, backing off. "I wasn't at my best."
"Neither was I," he added as Astra ran into the room.
She smiled at Jacen walking to meet Ana. Ana nearly fell over laughing seeing the princess so excited. "Astra, what is it?"
"They're here. Both of them!"
**
Ana nodded, unsure what she meant until she realized who else arrived. She walked past Astra and Jacen, running out to the auditorium. The three Jedi looked at each other then followed her. She stood frozen, shocked to see a familiar Jedi Knight sitting on the stage. He hadn't shaved. His hair was longer than when she saw him and there was something else different about him. He seemed mature than she knew him to be.
Ana smiled inwardly to herself, yet frowned at the same time. She hadn't excepted to see him back. Ana walked over. He looked up, half-smiling at her. Kailin Sun. Her first instinct was to hit him however the other was to hold him tight and kiss him. Her first instinct won out. She raised her fist, hitting him smack in the eye. Kay fell off the stage, covering his bruised eye.
"Yeah Ana, it's nice to see you too." He replied, "I take it you've been training very hard,"
She nodded, "How could you? How could you just leave me like that with no choice or say?" Ana paused, turning away, "I came back to Yavin to be with you. I didn't come back to have a broken heart,"
He nodded, "I know and I'm sorry," Kay paused, glancing at Astra, Jacen and the spirit of Qui-Gon Jinn. He waved hi to them, turning his attention back onto Ana. "It wasn't me. Kyp started it. He just wanted to get me out of the way, to move in on you." He froze, quickly adding, "Did he?"
She laughed, "He tried but I saw through him."
Kailin nodded, "That's good." Noticing another figure enter the room. It was his brother Dray. He saw Astra and smiled, causing her to blush a bit but once he saw the bruise on his brother, Dray nodded.
"Why did you come back, Kay?" Ana asked, sensing he was going to answer but beat him to it.
"I came back because I love you. And because I love you, I'm not leaving again. I'll never leave you. You mean too much to me to lose." He paused, "You don't bring out my dark side, Ana. Kyp does because he once loved you and broke your heart, the same thing I did and I don't want to do that again."
She laughed again, tensing, "He does have a way of pushing the right buttons. I know." Ana paused, turning back to him, "I'm glad you've decided to stay, Kay. But if you think I'm going to take you back because you said all that stuff, you can think again. If you want me back, you have to prove to me you're worthy and you won't hurt me again like that,"
He nodded, "That's fair."
Ana switched her gaze to the boy, eyeing Astra. She smiled, "I take it your Dray Sun,"
Dray bowed his head to her, "And you're Ana Solo. The girl my brother is crazy about."
She rubbed her nose, secretly sniffling, "Um, this is Jacen Solo, my uncle, my Master Qui-Gon Jinn and..."
The princess burst forward, extending her hand to Dray, "And I'm Astra Sule. I'm Ana's best friend. From Astrus. I'm sort of named after the planet because my mother loves it so much,"
He nodded, taking her hand and kissing it. Astra giggled, her eyes meeting his. He smiled roguishly at her, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Astra."
She hesitated, mesmerized by him, "Um well, welcome to Yavin."
Qui-Gon chuckled, as well as Ana. It came as no surprise the princess would fall for him. Ana fell for Kailin and now, things were going to get interesting. But in the dark of the auditorium, Veniqua watched the exchange. She watched Ana Solo, the love of Kailin's life. If she was going to win back Kailin, she had to deal with his woman first and that wasn't going to be easy.
To be Continued...
Book 10
"UnBroken Bonds"
By obi's girl
Summary: A year has passed after the events in Guys & Dating (Book 9); Ana Solo is focusing more of her time and energy on training and getting back into the swing of things. Kailin is on Corellia, trying to sort through his life so he drops by his by to see his sophisticated big brother, Dray. And a new threat arises.
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.
There is no such thing as a happy ending. Everything seems blissful until the last minute, when the plot begins to thicken and the problem surfaces. The complication. There's always a complication. It doesn't matter if it's small or big because it always makes matters worse than they already are.
After Kailin left, people began whispering behind Ana's back. Rookie Jedi would laugh when she came into the hall. She tried to ignore them at first, try to put them out of her mind but it was impossible. The whispers and rumors of Kailin's sudden departure were great and widely spread. Astra told her not to pay attention and they would forget and thankfully they did after eight months.
The quarrel between Kailin and Kyp was a whisper of the past. Everybody forgot what happened, except Ana. She knew they were fighting over their possession of her. Men were like that and Kyp especially disgusted her. Worst of all, he acted like it didn't mean anything. He didn't care he almost killed Kailin. What mattered to him was that he was gone and there was nobody to stop him from moving in on Ana. But she knew better. Everytime she'd see him in the hall or anywhere else in the Temple, she'd act like she didn't know what he was talking about and that she needed to focus on her training.
And it was the truth. She needed to focus on her training. Training was the only thing that kept her mind off the agony Kailin caused her. Her brother argued against it, saying Jedi didn't use training as an excuse to surpress hurt feelings but he understood she needed to focus and not let Kailin get to her.
She didn't care if Kailin was in pain because she was in as much pain, maybe even more. Ana was strong. She needed to be. Every morning when she entered the lone training room to meet Qui-Gon, she would put up barriers to shield her thoughts from him. He knew what she was doing but never said anything. Her private life was her own and he knew she needed to be shielded. She was scared of being hurt, though she would never admit it out loud. She was just scared.
Qui-Gon frowned watching her meditate. He knew she was in pain and wanted to be there for her but he couldn't do that unless she said something. The silence was unbearable. He could take it if she said something to him but to block her thoughts from his was another issue. Even though he couldn't feel her pain, he knew her heart was in turmoil and it killed him. Ana?
"Hmm?"
Do you want to talk? he continued. Qui-Gon knew what had been bothering her but he didn't want to push the subject. Kailin was her true love and to lose him without having say, hurt her even more and it was killing her inside. Qui-Gon could see that. He waved his hand, sending a comforting Force wave over her, hoping it would soothe her worries a bit.
She turned to him and smiled kindly. "I just don't want it to drag me down. I know training is important but hiding my feelings was the only thing I could do to prevent myself from crying out loud. I needed to be quiet. I needed to be alone." Ana paused, "And I'm sorry for shielding that from you. I know I should have spoken up but I was scared. If I did and I started crying, I was scared wouldn't be able to stop. Does that make any sense?"
Ana, I may not be close to you like a father but I will always be there for you as a friend and confidant. I care about you. You mean the Universe to me. Your happiness is all I care about and seeing you withdrawn and dark, is like a Sith Lightsabre through my heart. I know. That's how I died. he paused, placing his ghostly hand on hers, No matter how long it will take, I will be here to guide you and offer you comfort but you are right - you cannot let this drag you down. I know you loved him and he has proven more than once that he loved you...I don't know what he's going through but I can tell you this. He's a fool to let you go. Anybody who would let you go without giving a reasonable explanation is a fool. I just wanted you to know I'll be here, if you ever need me.
Ana smiled. "That's a pretty lengthy comfort speech Jedi Master. Thank you," She began to put her arms around him in a hug but drew back, remembering. "Sorry. I forgot,"
He nodded, I haven't,
**
Kailin stared at the broken weary Hovel as he approached it. For the latter part of his exile, he roamed the Outer Rim, trying to find peace where he could until finding himself back on Corellia - the same dust ball he swore he'd never end up staying in a thousand millennia. But there he was. He hesitated a moment before knocking. Kailin waited a minute before an older boy answered. The man had jet-black hair and piercing blue eyes. His face was just as rugged as he was and it looked like he had been trying to grow a beard or was drunk before he opened the door. He blinked a bit, shielding the sun from his eyes. Yep. He was drunk. Kailin smiled.
"How are you big brother?" he asked, smiling.
The boy frowned, dragging him inside the Hovel. Kailin laughed at him. "You're quite a mess. How long did you stay out last night, Dray?"
Dray Sun scowled. "Not long enough, seeing you're here. What do you want, Kailin?"
Kailin frowned, placing his hands in his dirty pockets. "A place to stay."
As Dray paced across the room into the kitchen, Kailin followed him intently. To his dismay, the kitchen hadn't changed a bit. It was the same. He smiled, remembering their mother leaning over the stove making breakfast. Their father had left them. She preferred to call him dead but she was wonderful and had two loving boys - well one of them anyway. Kailin faced his older brother again. "So, what about it, Dray? Give your little brother a place to stay?"
Dray opened the fridge, removing a bottle, which Kailin took to be a whiskey, hoping to brighten his mood. "I thought you were training on Yavin 4 as a Jedi. What they do? Kick you out, because you were womanizing too many of the female cadets?"
Kailin smiled, "I only had one woman, Dray and regretfully, I lost her because I let pride in my way."
He frowned, "What did you do?"
The boy shrugged, "I almost killed her ex-lover; a wise-ass Jedi Master named Kyp Durron,"
Dray's mouth gaped. "Your girlfriend dated the legendary Kyp Durron? Mother of Sith! And you let her go. Damn,"
Kailin waved his hand. "All I need is my old bedroom and I promise I won't bother you. I just need to think and find peace. Nothing else."
He stood up from his chair, muffling the boys' hair, "All right. But this isn't a free ride. I know we're family but you have to work. This is Corellia after all. Nothing is ever free unless it's smuggled in."
"That's fair." Kailin paused, "And I promise you won't regret it."
"Oh, I already do. But welcome home little bro," Dray replied, patting his shoulder.
"Yeah. Home." Kailin mumbled back, his eyes drifting.
**
Owen Solo stood back watching as the princess attempted Astral Projection. Astra always wanted an active power and now her wish had been granted. Her spiritual body appeared. She looked up, glancing at Owen, smiled to herself then attempted to pick up her lightsabre which was lying on a table.
Focus Astra, Owen sent.
As she reached for it, the princess jerked back into her body. Astra opened her eyes feeling disappointed. "I almost had it. I was so close," she cried.
Owen shrugged, "You tried."
Astra nodded no, scolding herself. "But I wanted to pick up my saber. I focused all my energy, all my strength. What did I do wrong?"
"Maybe nothing. Maybe you were trying too hard. It happens. It's no big deal."
The princess sat down on the stage, frowning. "But it does. Owen, I have an active power. Something I always wished for and I don't even know how to control it,"
He sat next to her, "Astra, you gained this power only recently. It surprised you and now you're expecting you can control it right off the bat? It doesn't work like that. You have to pace yourself; give yourself time to get a feel for projecting before trying to expand it. Believe me, it will go smoother," Owen paused, "Have you been able to talk to Ana?"
She nodded no, "She's been training non-stop since her arrival. Even teaching Coryn has stopped. Wylie doesn't mind. It gives her more time to teach classes,"
Owen nodded, "I told her training right away was a bad idea. I don't know why she didn't listen to me"
Astra smiled, "Maybe it was because she didn't wish to be treated like a child. You said to give myself time practicing; maybe you should give Ana time. She's been through a lot,"
The Jedi smiled, agreeing with her, "All right. I'll give her time," he paused, getting up, "But remember what I said. Give yourself time to learn your power before jumping into things." And left.
***
Qui-Gon's sweet eyes stared at Ana. He felt she was still disturbed about Kailin. She didn't want to let him go but she had no choice and no say. The Jedi wanted to wrap his arms around her and keep her safe from other toils that might crush her broken heart. He still had deep feelings for her, despite the conversation they had about letting go of that feeling. He couldn't help it. She was vulnerable, delicate and hurt - a hurt he wanted to soothe away but it wasn't his place, or was it?
Ana meant so much to him and though she was his apprentice, her happiness was all he cared about. He hated seeing her in such pain. Qui-Gon reached out, brushing her shoulder. She looked up at him.
"I'm okay." She whispered before sudennly turning away. Ana fell to the floor as the violent vision hit her without warning. Qui-Gon dropped to her side, holding her waist.
She saw Astra but it wasn't her. The princess stood still with her eyes closed, slumped over but there was something unusual. She saw another girl - same features, same hair color, clothes, and face. She attempted to move her lightsabre. Astra stared hard at the weapon before it abruptly turned on her, slashing her left arm. Sparks flew from the attack, causing Astra to shield her eyes and forcing her to project back into her own body. The princess stumbled a bit before falling onto the stage, placing her other arm over her wound, trying to stop the blood from pouring out.
Ana opened her eyes. She felt Qui-Gon's comfort but ignored it. "I have to go." She cried, standing up. "Astra's in trouble," and ran out, grabbing her lightsabre and jacket.
***
Dray watched his brother as he meditated quietly in his room. It was good to see Kailin but there was a down side. The downside: Seeing his brother made him regret not going with him to Yavin 4 to train as a Jedi. On the other hand, it was nice to see family. Kailin was his family, his only family. Their mother - she was a wonderful woman for putting up with them as boys but she always seemed to be sad about something. What? They never knew. Maybe it was not having a father around to help raise two boys, but Kailin always had a feeling it was something else.
It was. On her deathbed, she told Dray who their blood father was. He was a Jedi named was Sean Owen McGillis. He wasn't old. Sean was about 26 years old when he met their mother. She fell instantly in love with him. On their first night together, he revealed to her he was a Jedi Padawan and that the consequences of being with her before being Knighted were great but he didn't care. His life was already set that night and she immediately became pregnant.
But even though the child was his, they couldn't marry. Sean left seven months before the child was to be born and returned to the Temple to face the truth. He was banished from the Order and stripped of his apprenticeship and was forced to join the Agricultural Corps. On his way over on a shuttle, he hit the pilot over the head and crashed it. The impact was great and everyone on board was killed instantly.
Dray was born first, shortly followed by Kailin. She made Dray promise to always to be there for his brother no matter what and that he could never know whom his father was. She knew Jedi characteristics resided in her boys but she didn't want to let on because she didn't want to lose the two loves of her life.
Now Kailin was back to find peace with himself and the pain he caused Ana his love. And as the saying goes, "Home is where the Heart is," and his Heart belonged to Corellia and to Ana a difference that wasn't lost to him.
Kailin was somebody Dray didn't want to become because he didn't want to be like his father. He knew Sean cared about their mother but to leave her without notice in the deep of the night and abandon her forever was unforgivable. Truth was, she died of a broken heart. For the first 15 years of their lives she remained strong until the day came she couldn't bear the grief anymore and died.
The grief always stayed with him and during the years Kailin was gone, he made up for his grief by getting drunk and having a new woman lay next to him every morning. It was a mistake. He knew that but it was the only way he knew how to deal.
Nothing pleased him until a certain young girl came along, the same young girl that took a fancy to Kailin years earlier before he discovered his heritage. She had Jet-black hair, dark sea-blue eyes, and a smile to melt a man's heart and a body to die for. He didn't really know her name. She was a professional hooker, something that wasn't a surprise. Most of the teenage girls that hung around the streets of Corellia were hookers but this girl was different. She struck quickly at her prey like a Raven and had the stamina of a coyote.
He frowned, thinking about her. Dray glanced again at Kailin's room. He was asleep now, collapsed on his bed and tired from meditating. Dray turned, heading down the hallway and back towards the kitchen. He noticed the door was open and went to shut it. As he shut it closed, a sweet voice purred from the wind.
"Is he here?" she asked.
Dray didn't have to face her to know who she was. "Leave us alone. He doesn't need to see you to mend his broken heart."
She smiled, walking toward him. Her arms slithered around his back and stomach, "What about you Dray? Do you need me?"
He nodded, "Sorry. I stopped hanging out with hookers a long time ago. I was naive and young. I didn't know any better,"
She snarled, backing away. "Neither did he and he left once he learned who he was. He never even gave me a kiss good bye. He just left and didn't look back. He shut us out of his life a long time ago, spatting on us like ants."
"I said my goodbye." Dray returned angrily.
She licked her lips, "But I never got to and now he's back I may just have that chance," and vanished.
Dray turned around, looking for the girl. She was gone. "Except his heart doesn't belong to you, Veniqua."
**
Ana Solo rushed everywhere in the Temple, looking for Astra Sule. She had a vision the princess hurt herself, using what looked like astral projection. Astra was trying to move objects while in her astral state something that was very dangerous if not mastered. It didn't make any sense to Ana until she realized Astra had an active power. A smile crossed her face but quickly faded into a frown. She stopped, smelling whiffs of smoke coming from the auditorium. Ana rushed into the room to find a disappointed Astra, holding her arm. No one else was with her. Stupid girl! Ana thought.
Astra was trying to see if she could wield her lightsabre while projecting. Ana nodded her head no, then helped her walk to the door...
**
"You shouldn't have been working by yourself, you know." Ana scolded her as the princess sat on the med. Bed. A droid ran a scanner over her arm, healing the burn. Astra winced a bit.
"I know. But I wanted to try so badly." The girl admitted.
Ana gasped, trying to let go. Astra knew she made a mistake and that was enough. But the princess had a responsibility to herself to maintain such a complicated power. "Who else have you told about your new power?"
"Owen. You of course, but no one else - except maybe Kailin and Kyp. They saw me project when I intervened to stop them..."
Ana frowned, trying not to think of Kailin. Kailin Sun hurt her more than Kyp ever could. They almost killed each other if it hadn't been for Astra. The princess tried to mediate between the two and because of the confrontation Ana was left with a broken heart. She looked again at Astra.
"Just be careful, Astra. If you're going to enhance your power you should take it slow and have someone with you at all times. We're not risking anybody over toying with what we can do," Ana concluded, leaving her.
Astra shrugged, seeing to her healed wound.
**
Outside the healers' Solo could hear someone call her name from behind.
Ana cringed, recognizing whom it was. Kyp Durron. He was the down part of not having Kailin around. Everytime Kyp would catch her in the hall or in class, he'd act like the "comforting friend" which disgusted her. She just wanted him to leave her alone, but unfortunately Kyp Durron wasn't going to disappear anytime soon. She reluctantly turned around, facing her former lover.
"Kyp, how nice to see you," Ana replied with false enthusiasm.
He walked closer to Ana, smiling. "Ana Solo, you just get lovelier and lovelier everytime I see you,"
Solo rolled her eyes, not impressed. "Kyp, I'm not really in the mood to talk to you and hear your nauseating flattery comments. I have to meet my Master," she retorted, brushing past him.
"Master Qui-Gon Jinn. I know him. You're lucky to have an excellent teacher,"
She froze and turned back to him, "How do you know my Master?" Ana asked icily, glaring at him.
"He was the Orders' best marksman and the most stubborn, which I regretfully, I think you've inherited."
Ana smiled sarcastically, "You know Kyp, don't think I don't what you're doing. I know why you're sucking up to me. I'm not dumb. Now that Kailin isn't around, your male ego probably figures you can move in on me and make me yours again," she paused, "I'm not that desperate either," and continued down the corridor.
**
Dray leaned back on the kitchen chair as Kailin ran down the stairs. He didn't seem worried just anxious to leave. "Anything wrong, little bro?" he asked.
Kailin turned to him, smiling. "I'm fine. I just need to get some air. I've been inside all day." And left the Hovel.
The older boy frowned, knowing Veniqua would follow him.
**
Mara Jade felt her stomach. Though she was only pregnant for 10.5 months, she was lucky enough not to suffer through extreme cravings. Whenever she felt a strong craving approaching, Mara would meditate telling herself it was trick to make her fatter than she should be. It was also because she didn't want to work-off the extra fat after the pregnancy. Working a diet and exercising day after day, in her opinion would be Hell.
And Luke. The Jedi Master vowed to stay by her side day in and day out which was sweet at first but now it was getting on her nerves. She knew Luke loved her but to wait on her hand and foot - be there every second she'd turn around was driving her crazy. However, when Mara told him she needed to be alone, alone by herself without being watched over Luke was relieved. He left her to herself and wandered off somewhere.
Mara sighed to herself, "Peace and quiet, finally,"
A golden head popped out from the living room, startling her. The droid walked forward next to Mara's bed. She grunted to herself, finally looking at Threepio. "Let me guess. Luke sent you to take care of me?"
"Oh yes, Lady Skywalker! Master Luke wants to make sure you have all your needs attended to while you carry," Threepio bolstered.
Mara smiled to herself, I swear I'm going to kill that husband of mine,
**
"So kid, how's Mara doing?" Han asked, sitting down across from his brother-in-law. When Luke told him Mara relieved him, the Corellian immediately took the Jedi to the UnderGround to "relax" which meant drinking liquor and coaxing Luke into a Sabbac game.
Luke smiled, slouching back, "Relieved and guilty. I left Threepio to attend to Mara's needs. I know my wife. She'll either lock him up in the closet, comply to my wishes or chew my head off," he paused, "but not in the order,"
Han laughed. He knew Threepio could be an annoyance even if the droid didn't mean to be but he was helpful when he meant to be. "You probably should have sent R2 instead. At least all you hear from that little guy is a series of whistles and beeps,"
Luke shrugged, "Probably. But I need R2 to assist me. Besides, Mara has a medium-tolerance,"
Han rolled his eyes, "Yeah, medium-tolerance my ass!" taking another drink.
**
"Sorry Master Qui-Gon. I had to go," Ana cried, entering the old gym.
The Jedi Master smiled, assuring her it was okay. Is Astra all right?
She nodded, feeling somewhat doubtful. Astra was a headstrong girl. Ana knew the princess would keep trying to develop her powers without guidance. The young girl was stubborn like that. Ana had to admit to herself, if she received an active power she'd probably act the same way. But Ana realized, if no one watched Astra, maintaining an active power would prove to be very dangerous.
Ana smiled, "She'll be fine. Astra's an adult, a responsible adult. I know she'll be reckless but there's nothing I can do about it,"
Qui-Gon frowned, Astra's not what's bothering you. What's wrong?
The girl relented, dropping onto the map sitting Indian style. "You know me almost too well, Qui-Gon Jinn." She smiled, "I miss Kailin. Not having him around I feel alone. And Kyp! I can't deal with his ego. He's so determined to get me back,"
He looked down, Then I can't teach you anymore if you are unfocused. You need to be focused in order to control your visions,
"But I need to train to use telepathy,"
Qui-Gon nodded no, You have to. Telepathy also takes focus, another important trait a Jedi must learn and master, he paused, But I understand your concern. You love Kailin. I can't stop you from loving him. We're finished for today. You can rest,
Ana didn't move, feeling guilty for dragging her problems on her Master. He was weary; they both were. She smiled at him, "No. I'm not leaving. You've gone out of your way to train me and we've come a long way. It wouldn't be fair to waste your time because I feel depressed." She paused, "You're not getting rid of me that easily, Master Jinn. Not by a long shot,"
He smiled, Begin the exercise again. Slow breaths. You need to be calm. Only when calm, can you feel the energy of the Force surrounding you and guiding you,
Ana closed her eyes, doing as he Master instructed. He smiled. "Master Jinn, I won't fail you. I promise," she whispered through meditation.
I know you won't.
**
Kailin Sun covered his face from the blazing sun as he walked the streets of Corellia's famed marketplace. When he was boy, he would go with mother whenever she shopped for food or bartered for clothing. He missed her. Being in the market place reminded him of that lost time. She was so special to him, as Ana was - still was.
No, don't think about her. You caused her great pain, he told himself.
The boy stopped, gazing back down the street. To his dismay, there weren't many shoppers going around to each stand arguing with venders. Corellia was alive at one time but he was young then. It seemed alive to him then because he was a child. Now he was adult. Nothing seemed alive to him anymore. As he turned back, he noticed a shadowy figure following him. Kailin paid no attention to the stranger and kept walking.
As he began to round another corner into an alley, the stranger met him. He started to reach for his lightsabre, but sensed he knew who the stranger was. Kailin's face-hardened as he pulled back the ghost's hood. Her hand grabbed his. He struggled to let go. She laughed. That laugh. It sounded familiar. She finally let go, causing him to drop onto the dirty ground.
She knelt down, licking his face - a gesture he surely recognized. No. It couldn't be her. She disappeared. It couldn't be, he thought to himself. He reached up, careful not to alarm her. She didn't grab his wrist. He pulled back the hood, revealing her dark main and green eyes. "Veniqua,"
She straddled his chest, "I'm not dead, Kailin. You can touch me if you want I won't mind,"
He pushed her off him, growling fiercely. Her hair rolled over her neck. Her eyes were lustful, the same lust he felt for her many years ago before he was a Jedi. "What's the matter Kailin? Think you're seeing a ghost?"
The boy nodded, "You disappeared..."
She stood up, brushing off the sand from her black body suit and gloves. "I thought I died. When you left, I felt my entire being die."
"Probably should have," he retorted, starting off.
Veniqua slithered her way, grasping his back, "You came back for a reason, Kailin. You came back because this is your only home. You can't deny what you once were. I made you,"
He smiled, flipping her over himself. She fell onto the ground, laughing. "I don't think so, Veniqua. I made my own destiny. I made who I am, not you,"
"Yeah, but who gave the nickname Ladies Man?" she shouted back, "I did. You can't walk away from me. I'm a part of you."
He smiled again, "Not in this lifetime,"
She shrugged, "That's all right. I'll find some other way to get to you. It shouldn't be too hard. I know who you are,"
Before he could rebut, she disappeared.
**
Kailin rushed into the Hovel, startling his older brother. Dray stood up, noticing his foul mood. His eyes were piercing and added his chin sharp from not shaving. "Why didn't you tell me she was here?"
"Veniqua? You saw her?" he asked, astonished.
The Jedi nodded his head, "Don't play dumb with me, big brother. I know you knew she was here. Why didn't you tell me?"
"Kailin, I didn't know she was still on Corellia. I thought she left, like you did. She must have been staying in the UnderGround."
He nodded no, shoving him against the wall, "I don't need to revisit my past. I just came here to find peace. I don't need to deal with her."
"Except she'd both of your pasts, Kailin. We were young once. There's no question there." He continued, "You just forgot who you are. You've been staying with the Jedi far too long. You don't know who you are and to tell you the truth, I don't know who you are either,"
Kailin let him go, realizing it was the truth. He had forgotten who he was. Where he came from, who his real family was the darkest time in his life. He had forgotten it all. The Jedi replaced all he knew and loved. Dray straightened up.
"I stayed because I never wanted to forget who I was." He stated, brushing himself.
He frowned, turning to him, "Then who am I, Dray? I don't remember the face of my father. I hardly remember seeing mom smile. She was always sad and you shielded me from an unseen enemy I don't know. Who am I?"
Dray gestured he sit down. He paced himself, "A long time ago, on our mother's death bed - she told me a secret I still keep today."
Kailin fell silent.
"It's no coincidence you have remarkable powers as a Jedi, little bro. It's no surprise because our father was a Jedi,"
Kailin sat down, willing and yet unwilling to hear the rest of the story.
**
Coryn Wylie brushed her blonde hair over to her right shoulder as she reviewed today's lesson plan. After some effort and courage, she called Master Skywalker asking to have her own class, specifically teaching beyond the Jedi boundary. He agreed.
She ran her fingertips along the computer pad. Coryn never planned on being a T.A. much less having her own class. It was a dream come true. Though she had to admit, she missed the face of a particular student - Ana Solo. She knew her former teacher would be proud of her but she missed having the older girl around.
Coryn looked up to Ana for many reasons - one of them bringing to light her innate talent in the Force. It was Ana who recognized she was special from their first encounter. Slash that. Ana didn't know right away but after waking up in an entirely different setting and time, Ana realized she was special. It was also Ana that prompted her to continue her training though she had doubts about her future as a Jedi.
She glanced up again, noticing Astra and Owen entering the room. She smiled at them, but her gaze particularly fixated on Owen. Owen smiled at Coryn.
Owen Solo was also another positive aspect of her life. At first, she wanted to focus on her training and only her training but Owen and his big heart brushed her aside, overwhelming her. He whispered something to Astra then walked over casually, leaning on the desk.
"So, you finally got your own class. Congratulations," he smiled, adding a slight bow, "Master Wylie."
Coryn waved her hand, "I'm not a Jedi Master, Owen. Just a T.A that got lucky," she gasped, taking a peek at the door.
Owen frowned. "I'm sure she'd be proud of you, Coryn. Don't worry about her," he said, referring to his elder sister.
She nodded, "I know. I just feel on my own here and it's scary. I've never been without Ana before. I mean, I know we agreed to focus on our individual training but I still feel I need her approval on some things, like being a full time teacher,"
The boy reached up, placing his hand on her right shoulder, where a chunk of her blonde hair fell down to her waist. "You'll do great as you always do. Besides, you have me here." Kissing her cheek.
Things would have gone farther but the class starting "Ooo" ing at them. Owen backed away, taking his seat next to Astra. Coryn blushed, noticing a wink from him as he sat down.
Astra nudged him, "Nice performance, Solo,"
He flashed a glare at the princess before turning his attention onto a particularly beautiful blonde woman. Coryn blushed but pushed it aside, standing up behind the desk. She didn't quite know what to wear so she grabbed a white blouse, light brown vest, dark brown padded pants and boots and the extra of her lightsabre hung from her belt. Owen nodded, urging her to begin. Coryn smiled at him.
Before she could even open her mouth however, Kyp walked in. He smiled curtly at the students, leaving scowls on Coryn, Owen and Astra's faces. He turned to Coryn. Her arms were crossed and her eyes narrowed.
"I'm sorry if I interrupted. I was held up." He apologized, standing off to the stand.
Coryn rolled her eyes, grabbing the data pad, "I'm sure you were," she mumbled.
Kyp heard the comment but didn't retort, allowing her to continue the lesson. She smiled more graciously at the students. "Now, as I was about to say. I talked with Master Skywalker and he has agreed, I can expand your education and teach material beyond the usual requirements," She paused a moment, waiting for rebut from Kyp. She received none abling her to continue. "Before his grand niece found me I studied Science-Geography, Universal Geography and Geology. Currently, what you have been learning are basic Jedi exercises to enhance your power but you should enhance your mind as well," she concluded, tapping her head for emphasis.
Owen raised his hand, smiling at Coryn, "What about you Master Durron? Do you agree with Miss Wylie and Master Skywalker?"
He stood up, straightening his tunic, quickly glancing at Coryn. She stood firm. "Expanding ones' horizons is important. The Jedi shouldn't be limited to using only the Force and our Lightsabres. It is especially helpful to know the history about different races as we encounter them." He paused, smiling at Coryn though she didn't face him, "I applaud your tactics Miss Wylie. You are yet to become a wonderful and no doubt an excellent Jedi Master in the making,"
She turned to him, smiling a bit, "Thank you, Kyp," Coryn faced the students again, this time gesturing for Owen and Astra to hand out the data pads she compiled. The boy stood up after Astra, grabbing a few data pads and giving her wink. They distributed what they could then sat down. "Now, let's begin today's lesson: Science-Geography."
**
To Luke's dismay, his brother-in-law had gotten himself really drunk, really fast. They had been in the UnderWorld for more than 10 hours, either gambling or drinking. Han did both. Luke tried to suppress a laugh as he tried to get up from his chair. The Jedi chose to be sober, a choice Han labeled as a "typical Jedi Master reaction" and it was. Ever since Ana decided to train, he had been taken being a Jedi Master more seriously. And going out with Han to a bar to gamble and get drunk was unfitting of a Jedi, even a Master.
He thought about calling Leia to pick up her husband but knowing his sister's temper, she'd not only flip out but give Han and maybe himself, an entire lecture. And he didn't want to call Mara. She was already in a bad mood because he stuck her with Threepio who was probably already in the closet. The Jedi looked again at Han.
He waved his hand, grudgingly keeping himself from not throwing up, "Don't worry about me, Luke. I'll be fine. You just go on and to home to your wife. I'll be fine," falling onto the ground.
Luke nodded no. That was it. He wasn't going to leave Han alone in the UnderWorld drunk. "No Han. I'm not leaving you alone to get even more drunk," he stated, helping him to his feet. "Come on, buddy,"
"Okay mom. Okay. I won't stay up late on a school night. Just don't yell at me and point a gun in my face!" he murmured, causing Luke to laugh a bit.
As they turned to leave, Luke heard a familiar set of footsteps behind him. "Luke Skywalker, I'm going to kill you," the woman snarled.
Luke turned around, swinging Han's arm over to his other side. His wife stood before him and Mara didn't look happy. "Mara, what's wrong?"
"You left me with Threepio. I spent 10 hours having to listen to your droid go on and on, and being by my side every second, minute and hour. And you know what, I've had it," she paused, "You're going to die Skywalker! You got me like this and now you're gonna to pay," she snarled back, unclipping her lightsabre.
The Jedi dropped Han to the floor as he sudennly realized Mara wasn't kidding. She held her lightsabre, igniting its blade and ready to strike. "Mara, I'm sorry I left you with Threepio. It was a bad decision. I know that."
By that point, everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at the spectacle. Mara continued, "I've been carrying for 10.5 months and I'm sick of it," she swung at 10:00 and it was a dangerous one. Luke ducked, rolling himself farther away from his wife's wrath. She laughed crazily.
"Mara, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I got you pregnant and stuck you with C3P0 instead of R2."
She shrugged, disengaging her lightsabre and hooked it again on her belt, "Just as long as you learned your lesson," Mara paused, smiling, "And I'll take R2." The woman turned on her heel and abruptly left the hall, glaring dangerously at curious onlookers. One person didn't catch the gaze. Mara reached down, taking the man by the shirt and shoving him onto a table creating a loud crash.
Luke breathed more steadily, smiling like an idiot, "Yeah Honey, it was nice of being some service," grabbing Han's arm once again and dragging him to his feet.
**
Kailin Sun slammed another piece of clothing into his sack. He now knew he had to return to Yavin. The Jedi couldn't stay, after the story - the story of his family. His father, a man he hardly even knew, was a Padawan or Knight or some rank of the Jedi and he had an affair with his mother, impregnating her. So to him, he was the nasty result of that adulteress affair. Because of that, he decided to return to Yavin to make his disappearance more complete. He was going to say good bye to his love Ana Solo. The Jedi refused to hurt her more than she deserved. He refused to make the same mistake his father did. He stopped at half-pace, trying to slow his mind.
"Kailin?" a voice asked.
"Go away Dray!" he retorted, shoving some more clothes into the sack, "I know what I have to do,"
The elder man stepped forward, "And what would that be? Breaking Ana's heart the same our father broke our mothers?" He paused, turning his brother to face him, "You are not him, Kay. You have a chance, a chance to not repeat his mistakes. But instead you're running away from it."
Kailin glared up at him, "I took a vow when I became a Jedi. I would never dishonor what they stood for. But I have and now it's time..."
"To what? Take the blame for what he did?" Dray retorted, "You aren't him. You and Ana - you two have a chance to make things work but you're retreating away because your too scared to make them work,"
He shoved his hand off his shoulder, "Don't presume to understand me, Dray! We don't even understand each other. But I do understand I can't hurt Ana anymore. I won't,"
Dray dropped his shoulders, "Then let me come with me. Someone needs to keep an eye on you while you pilot and you're not exactly in condition,"
Kailin laughed, "Not in condition? I have my shuttle on automatic pilot, direct flight to Yavin non-stop." He paused, grinding his teeth, "I don't need you along,"
"I'm not asking you take me with you. I'm going!" he retorted, exiting the room in a roar.
Veniqua smiled, hearing the exchange. She heard Dray rush off and immediately did the same...
**
Jacen Solo tried to hide his grin as he entered the UnderWorld. He knew his aunt's attitude could be lethal but the mess she created in her wake, looked like a Bantha could have done it. Luke called him to assist him with Han. The boy spotted them at a booth.
Luke waved him over. Jacen smiled at him then frowned as he realized how drunk his father was. "Sorry to bother you Jacen..." Luke began.
He nodded no, "It's all right. Actually I needed to talk to you about something,"
The Jedi nodded, "But first help me with Han,"
**
By some miracle, Leia wasn't in. Luke surmised she must either be in the Senate building doing some work or out somewhere else. The Jedi dragged the Corellian into the apartment dropping him or lightly putting him on the bed. Luke huffed, rejoining Jacen in the main room. He gazed at the boy as he looked around the familiar family apartment where he grew up. Actually, he didn't. He moved all over the place because of talent for the Force as a Jedi. No place for him could really be called home because he'd known so many.
"What did you need to talk to me about?" the Jedi asked, interrupting the boy's thoughts.
Jacen smiled, turning at a 90° angle. "Astra called me earlier regarding Ana. She's been focusing more of her time on training, but she's concerned."
Luke didn't reply, allowing his nephew to continue. "At first I thought it was great Ana was taking her training more seriously..."
"But?"
The boy frowned, "But unfortunately, the reason for her sudden interest is personal and hurtful," he paused, lowering his head, "Kailin is gone. He's been gone for several months now."
Luke frowned. He had learned Ana returned to Yavin after Aiden showed up again before returning directly to Astrus. The Queen was honest as she always was but convinced him she'd be fine. He believed her. Aiden was his trusted friend and a former Apprentice. He stroked his chin, thinking what could have driven Kailin way and one name sprung to his mind: Kyp Durron. It was the only logical reason for Kailin's departure.
"What did he do?" he asked.
Jacen shrugged, "I don't know but he drove Kailin away from Ana and now she's miserable."
"She's trying to hide her grief by training more and focusing on the now and not the past. This can be dangerous." Luke examined, "You must go to Yavin and talk to her and Kyp. I know she can't be happy, having to deal with Durron every day."
Jacen frowned a bit, "And the last thing anybody needs letting this consume her and drag her into an even deeper depression." He shrugged off the memory of the nightmare, facing Luke directly, "I'm ready. I already have my things packed."
"Good." He concluded, "And thank you Jacen for helping me,"
The boy smiled, nodding his gratitude. Luke smiled, disappearing from the door.
**
Though the shuttle was on autopilot, Kailin's hands ran over the console, almost making his brother dizzy. Dray smiled watching the boy. Since they left Corellia, no words were spoken between them. It was funny. Kailin came to Corellia to find "peace" as he called it and be with his family, and now he did, he wanted to get away from it. Some family. Kailin wasn't exactly sure why Dray dragged himself along on his little trip, but he knew it had something to do with doing the right thing. Big brothers were like that. Finally, after running his hands over the console for no reason, he turned and faced Dray. He smiled at him but quickly turned the smile into a frown. He was still angry with him.
"Look Kay, like I said before..." Dray began.
He waved his hand, "I don't want to talk about it, Dray. Past is past. There's nothing either of us can do about it."
Dray looked down, "Except you did." He paused, sitting forward, haunched over on his thighs, "You became a Jedi, something greater than what we were brought up in."
Kailin nodded, "I didn't know I was a Jedi until it was too late. I trained old." He shrugged, "It's no wander why I hurt Ana. I wasn't experienced."
"Kailin, our father was a Jedi. Though his power was great, he couldn't save our mother from dying from a broken heart. But maybe you can save Ana. You're his redemption, his chance to start over and not make the same mistakes he did."
He smiled, "I thought you said I wasn't him,"
Dray smiled back, "That's what I am saying, little bro. You're not him," he paused, "I've always been proud of you, Kailin. You became something I didn't want to be because of Sean. Now, you're going to leave that life because you hurt Ana? It's selfish and stupid. You can be something and you're throwing it away!"
Kailin stood up abruptly, glaring down at Dray, "That's just the thing. I'm not anything. Where I came from and who I am now, it doesn't make sense." He shrugged, "I mean, why did mom fall for him, why did Sean fall for her? She was nothing."
He nodded, smiling a bit, "Because it was the Will of the Force, Kailin. If Sean hadn't appeared on Corellia, you and I wouldn't be here having this conversation and Ana, she would live the rest of her life not really realizing if she could ever love again," Dray paused, "I know I'm not versed in the Jedi way, Kay. I haven't been much of a big brother either, but just take this advice: You have something precious - Ana. You can't loose her. She makes you whole. If you lose her, you'll lose that light inside of you that's struggling to survive," He paused, "and if you lose her, you'll lose that light and I don't think you want that."
The boy didn't reply except sit back down on the pilot's chair. Dray nodded, looking out the dorsal window of the craft.
**
Ana Solo winced out of meditation feeling a grave disturbance in the Force. It was a sharp instinct, not even a premonition but it was clear. Qui-Gon noticed her. His expression read "What now?" Ana shook her head, unsure what to make of the feeling. It seemed familiar to her. She turned towards the doorway, noticing a silhouette standing in the hallway. He walked forward with great ease, nodding to Ana and Qui-Gon. The Jedi removed his hood. Ana smiled recognizing who it was.
"Uncle Jacen!" she cried, hugging him.
Qui-Gon nodded to the boy, but was unsure why he made the trip to Yavin. He let go of Ana, gazing at the Jedi Master then back at Ana. It wasn't very often she'd get the chance to see one of her family (Owen and Astra she knew) but Jacen was one of her favorites.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, sitting down. Jacen followed, hesitating a moment to answer. Ana frowned, "You came because you heard about what happened to Kailin, didn't you?"
He nodded yes, "What happened? What did Kyp do?"
She shrugged, "Kyp's arrogant. He let his ego in the way, something that isn't much of a surprise," she paused, "I miss Kailin. He's been gone far too long, too long I'm starting to think he may not come back,"
Jacen gazed again at Qui-Gon. He smiled down at his niece, "He will come back, Ana. You mean so much to him."
Ana looked down, "Jacen, he left because of me. He left because he didn't want to hurt me, because he thought I brought out the dark side in him,"
Qui-Gon nodded, getting up. Ana noticed him. She had forgotten he was even in the room. "Um, Jacen, meet Master Qui-Gon Jinn. He was...the Master of Kenobi,"
The boy smiled, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Master Jinn." He paused, touching Ana's hand, "Has my niece been an obedient student?"
He laughed, She's stubborn sometimes, but I expect that. Not everybody is forthcoming when it comes to training. But I expect nothing else, since she is a second generation Skywalker,
"Her mother is equally as stubborn. She loved being a pilot more than being a Jedi. Only now, since Jainy's a mother, flying and taking care of family, is bothersome. She practices. I can still beat her in a duel but it's this girl, that's more a challenge,"
Ana smirked, "Are you challenging me, Uncle?"
Jacen hesitated, wishing he hadn't said what he did. Ana stood up abruptly, towering over him. The boy laughed, standing up after him. "Ana, I didn't mean...I mean I know you're great. It's in your blood..."
She nodded, "Just ignite your lightsabre uncle and we'll see who's good," teasing him a bit.
The boy looked to the Jedi Master for referee but Qui-Gon didn't say anything, except nod good luck to Ana. Great. He's on her side. Teacher's Pet, Jacen unclasped his lightsabre, igniting it's light blue blade. His eyes narrowed on Ana. "Ana, we really don't..."
"What are you chicken?" she blurted. "I've been practicing for months. I haven't really gone up against Astra, Owen or Coryn. So you'll just have to do,"
Before the boy could reply, Ana struck at him. Jacen ducked, rolling off to the side. Ana nodded her head. Jacen smiled a bit, flipping back into a stance position. He hadn't really expected to get into a duel with his niece. He expected to talk things out. However, maybe he could use this opportunity to do just that. He smiled, "All right. If we're going to do this. We play by my rules."
Ana panted, "And what are the rules?"
"You tell me what happened between You, Kailin and Kyp. Nothing held back. Agreed,"
She thought a moment then shook her head, striking his sabre again, "Agreed!"
Qui-Gon laughed, applauding the boy's tactics at getting information out of Ana. He would have never thought to use dueling as means to ply the truth out of her.
Jacen back flipped over Ana. He hit his sabre on hers releasing several crackling sounds. Ana rolled over his back, tumbling onto the other side of the mat. "All right, enough play. What happened between Kyp and Kailin?"
She shrugged, jumping back up again, "Kyp has an ego the size of a Bantha. He over heard a private conversation between Kailin and Astra, involving me when I sick. He dismissed the rest of the class. Kailin was the last to leave but Kyp held him up, bantering him with questions about me. Kay got annoyed and things got ugly,"
The boy frowned, recklessly letting down his guard leaving an open space for Ana to kick him with the but of her sabre. Jacen caught it with his hand, eyeing her. "How did things get ugly?"
Ana shrugged again, "I didn't really ask. All I know is, after that small attack, things heated up. Kyp and Kay were bound to head into another fight with each other." She paused, "If Astra wasn't present in both locations, they probably would have killed each other,"
"Astra mediated between the two?"
She nodded yes, "Owen didn't really help. He knew some conflict was bound to happen, he just didn't know when. Of course, he's a boy. Fighting is always the easy way to solve things. That's how you males work," There was a slight hint of frustration in her voice and Jacen understood why.
Jacen dropped to the floor as Ana swept her sabre over his back. He grabbed her foot, dropping her to the floor as well and disengaging her lightsabre. She nodded to him. "That was an unfair move,"
He waved her off, ignoring the comment, "So now you're focusing on your training to get your mind of what happened between you, Kyp and Kailin,"
"From the start, Kay promised he'd never hurt me and he did. They both did and I'm suffering the consequences because of that." She paused, "Even if Kailin came back from where ever he is, I don't know if I'd hug him or kill him,"
Jacen nodded, extending his hand to her. She took it, standing up smiling thanks. "It was a great work out, Jacen. Thanks,"
He grabbed her in a hug, "That's what uncles are for. And I'm sorry about the last move,"
Ana smiled, backing off. "I wasn't at my best."
"Neither was I," he added as Astra ran into the room.
She smiled at Jacen walking to meet Ana. Ana nearly fell over laughing seeing the princess so excited. "Astra, what is it?"
"They're here. Both of them!"
**
Ana nodded, unsure what she meant until she realized who else arrived. She walked past Astra and Jacen, running out to the auditorium. The three Jedi looked at each other then followed her. She stood frozen, shocked to see a familiar Jedi Knight sitting on the stage. He hadn't shaved. His hair was longer than when she saw him and there was something else different about him. He seemed mature than she knew him to be.
Ana smiled inwardly to herself, yet frowned at the same time. She hadn't excepted to see him back. Ana walked over. He looked up, half-smiling at her. Kailin Sun. Her first instinct was to hit him however the other was to hold him tight and kiss him. Her first instinct won out. She raised her fist, hitting him smack in the eye. Kay fell off the stage, covering his bruised eye.
"Yeah Ana, it's nice to see you too." He replied, "I take it you've been training very hard,"
She nodded, "How could you? How could you just leave me like that with no choice or say?" Ana paused, turning away, "I came back to Yavin to be with you. I didn't come back to have a broken heart,"
He nodded, "I know and I'm sorry," Kay paused, glancing at Astra, Jacen and the spirit of Qui-Gon Jinn. He waved hi to them, turning his attention back onto Ana. "It wasn't me. Kyp started it. He just wanted to get me out of the way, to move in on you." He froze, quickly adding, "Did he?"
She laughed, "He tried but I saw through him."
Kailin nodded, "That's good." Noticing another figure enter the room. It was his brother Dray. He saw Astra and smiled, causing her to blush a bit but once he saw the bruise on his brother, Dray nodded.
"Why did you come back, Kay?" Ana asked, sensing he was going to answer but beat him to it.
"I came back because I love you. And because I love you, I'm not leaving again. I'll never leave you. You mean too much to me to lose." He paused, "You don't bring out my dark side, Ana. Kyp does because he once loved you and broke your heart, the same thing I did and I don't want to do that again."
She laughed again, tensing, "He does have a way of pushing the right buttons. I know." Ana paused, turning back to him, "I'm glad you've decided to stay, Kay. But if you think I'm going to take you back because you said all that stuff, you can think again. If you want me back, you have to prove to me you're worthy and you won't hurt me again like that,"
He nodded, "That's fair."
Ana switched her gaze to the boy, eyeing Astra. She smiled, "I take it your Dray Sun,"
Dray bowed his head to her, "And you're Ana Solo. The girl my brother is crazy about."
She rubbed her nose, secretly sniffling, "Um, this is Jacen Solo, my uncle, my Master Qui-Gon Jinn and..."
The princess burst forward, extending her hand to Dray, "And I'm Astra Sule. I'm Ana's best friend. From Astrus. I'm sort of named after the planet because my mother loves it so much,"
He nodded, taking her hand and kissing it. Astra giggled, her eyes meeting his. He smiled roguishly at her, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Astra."
She hesitated, mesmerized by him, "Um well, welcome to Yavin."
Qui-Gon chuckled, as well as Ana. It came as no surprise the princess would fall for him. Ana fell for Kailin and now, things were going to get interesting. But in the dark of the auditorium, Veniqua watched the exchange. She watched Ana Solo, the love of Kailin's life. If she was going to win back Kailin, she had to deal with his woman first and that wasn't going to be easy.
To be Continued...