Star Wars:
Adventures of Aiden Sule
Young Jedi Knights
Book 2
"Phantom Assassins "
By Obi's Girl
Prologue:
An old Kyren Tamus, grandfather of Aiden Sule, secretly programmed a message cube, directing its descent to the Heart of the New Republic, the doorstep of the Jedi Council. In the message he wrote of his ailing health and his eldest grand daughter, Aiden Sule, a Jedi women with a heart torn between good and evil. He asked that two Jedi come his planet, Ceruse 7, village of Kalika to reteach Aiden the ways of the Jedi. Tamus feared if she doesn't learn the proper lessons, her heart will grow deeper with the Darkness and a great protector will be lost forever. He sealed the cube with an encrypted message to only be opened by Adi Gallia...
**
Adi Gallia stood patiently in the training hall of the Jedi temple. In her hand, was a small message cube that could be read only by her. The sender was Kyren Tamus, a Jedi Master on Ceruse 7. She couldn't find out the meaning of the message since Tamus was highly respected Jedi throughout the galaxy. Why would he need her dyer help? She closed her hand again and placed the cube on the table. Adi looked to the wooden door entrance, expecting company. As she predicted, Master Qui-Gon Jinn and Apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi responded to her call. The two bowed before her and faced Adi.
"What is your request, Master?" Qui-Gon asked.
Adi picked up the cube again and showed it to the two Jedi. "I received this three days ago. It seems to be a message cube from Kyren Tamus of Ceruse 7. He needs help." Adi began.
"What seems to be problem?" Obi-Wan asked.
"Kyren Tamus is a highly respected Jedi Master in that system. Ceruse has been known to have trouble time to time, but I sense there's more to this. I want you two to go there and find out what it is. I have already briefed the Council on this previous engagement, so you have no need to deal with them." Adi paused, "I will traveling myself, but not with you. There is a Peace Talk on Dylithia Prime. I will be going there." Adi said.
"Master Gallia, how come it reached you in specific?" Kenobi wondered.
"Aiden is my god daughter. Now, by the time I get back I expect this matter to be solved." Adi concluded.
**
Early afternoon, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi were at the traffic platform. The Deck Officer was talking to a fellow officer, when Jinn and Kenobi approached him. He nodded the officer to leave. "I expect you two are a Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi to Ceruse 7?" the officer asked.
"Yes. We already have clearance to leave our journey was ordered by Adi Gallia of the Jedi Council." Jinn replied.
"I know about that stuff. Just get on board. I'll signal when traffic control has clarified your data and it is safe." the Deck Officer replied.
Jinn and Kenobi boarded the ship, as the officer pulled a COM link, connecting him to Traffic Control. "Traffic Control, this is Officer Onaka on Platform 26A, West View requesting permission for a shuttle to leave. It's under Adi Gallia of the Jedi Council, her orders to Ceruse 7." Onaka said.
"Processing data. Wait momentarily." the controller replied. "Data clarified. Tell our guests to have a wonderful and peaceful journey."
Onaka smiled, put the link away and signaled an okay to the shuttle. Kenobi waved back. He had already fired up the ship and was ready to leave. Obi-Wan pulled back the control lever, maneuvering the shuttle into space.
*
Qui-Gon Jinn examined the computer records carefully. He was studying the profile of Aiden Sule, Tamus' granddaughter. According to the picture, Aiden looked like she was about twenty to twenty-five years old, though her birth date told a different story. Born on Ceruse 7 two and a half years after her parents were married. It was thirty cycles later. Kenobi turned to Jinn. "Is that Aiden Sule?" he asked.
"Yes. Don't you think she looks a bit young?" Jinn added.
"I'd guess about twenty to twenty-three years old." Kenobi hypothesized.
"She's thirty-two." Jinn clarified, gazing to his apprentice. He was shocked. It seemed almost impossible a women like that wouldn't look her age. She was very young.
"Maybe she works out." Kenobi added, causing his Master to smile.
**
A week later, the shuttle craft arrived in the Cerusian System. Ceruse 7 consisted of seven continents, as hinted by its name. Three of the main continents laid on the West Side of the planet and the other four were located in the east. It was a class M planet, habitable for humans. Ceruse had hot forests many rivers, but fewer oceans. A beautiful planet, it's color looked like a clear blue marble.
Obi-Wan Kenobi scanned the continents, searching for Kalika. The village of Kalika was home to many-settled Jedi, most of which were starting families. It was like a paradise made specifically for Jedi relaxation.
Kenobi turned to his master. "It's there." he said, pointing to a continent lying between the first two continents.
"Take us down," Jinn instructed.
**
Aiden Sule lay quietly against a tree, cited before a river. The forest was calm, the river was calm, the Force was calm and she was calm. It was perfect serenity. Suddenly, she heard a loud buzzing noise in the distance. Aiden jumped up and raced towards the noise.
Kenobi achieved a somewhat perfect landing, but a landing. Jinn and Kenobi stood outside of the shuttle, gazing about. Qui-Gon glanced to his transmitter. The village was a great distance away, further than they expected. "The village is far but I think we can make it." Jinn analyzed.
Jinn turned to his apprentice, who seemed to be staring at a moving object in the distance. As the object came closer, it was identified to be a woman. Kenobi started to reach for his saber, but his Master stopped him. The women stopped, once she was close enough. Jinn and Kenobi stared at her as she stared back at them. It was like charades. Finally she talked. "I am Aiden Sule, who are you?"
Kenobi looked to his Master in shock. "What luck is that." he joked.
Jinn stepped forward a bit. Aiden reached for her sabre. She recognized he was a Jedi Master, but still took the offensive. "I am Jedi Master Qui-Gon of the Republic. This is my Apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Aiden Sule, your grand father sent a message cube to the Republic a week ago. It was addressed to Master Adi Gallia. She sent us to talk." Jinn explained.
Aiden lowered her guard. "Adi Gallia. She's my god mother." she said.
She looked to the shuttle briefly, and then back at Jinn and Kenobi. "Come with me."
**
The dark haired woman led the two Jedi Knights into the village. The Jedi Master, Jinn removed his hood followed by Kenobi. Aiden kept walking; she didn't want to face them. If she did, they'd know her past. Aiden stopped and faced the two. Qui-Gon Jinn was in his early thirties. Kenobi was no more than a young adult. He almost looked like Aiden's father, Berik Sule with the intelligence of her grandfather. "Aiden, your grandfather summoned us here to help you. He said you needed proper training." Jinn began.
"I've lived her my entire life. I'm not about to leave for personal reasons. I'll take you both to see him." Aiden interrupted. The woman turned and walked forward again.
Kenobi turned to his Master and commented. "Well, I think our representative is very, shall we, unsociable."
"She'll lighten up. Aiden is only looking out for her people. She has to be strong to protect the village from dark Jedi. The grand daughter of Kyren Tamus will turn around." Jinn analyzed.
"Kyren Tamus. That name sounds familiar." Kenobi added.
"It should. Tamus was one of the original Jedi Council Members on this planet. Tamus stepped down from position once his grand daughter was born. He vowed to teach her of her heritage. Tamus is a very wise man. It would be an honor to meet him." Jinn replied.
Kenobi smirked and turned to Aiden. An old man approached Aiden, followed by a younger girl. "Grand father, we need to talk in private." Aiden said, walking to a smaller hut.
Tamus turned to the two. "I'm terribly sorry. I didn't tell Aiden you were coming. She doesn't accept outlanders in our village even if they are Jedi knights." Tamus replied.
"It's all right. It was worth the journey to come here." Jinn said.
Tamus turned to the younger girl. "Denai, keep them company while I talk with Aiden."
Denai nodded okay as the old man left. She faced the two Jedi knights. Denai smiled. "Have you ever played Bakrock?" she asked.
"What's that?" Kenobi wondered. Denai smiled and ran off. Jinn looked at Kenobi as he mumbled, "Kids."
**
Kenobi and Jinn waited outside patiently for Aiden and Tamus. Kenobi was more concerned where the girl ran off too. "I sensed the conflicting emotion in Aiden before. I believe there was a reason we were summoned here besides the apparent reason." Jinn analyzed.
Kenobi nodded yes as he scanned the terrain again. "Where's that girl?"
Suddenly the girl appeared again with a small bag. Kenobi looked at the bag. "Bakrock I presume."
The girl smiled yes. "I'll teach you how to play."
**
Aiden paced about the room. Much of her emotions lay deep in the dark side. Tamus, the old man leaned against a table for support. He knew Aiden wouldn't approve, but he needed help desperately. Aiden stopped pacing and faced her grandfather. "Why are they here?" Aiden roared.
"I sent for them. Aiden, your mind still lays on the dark side even though your heart is good. This village needs total security. One woman can't provide that. They can help you. The duty of a Keeper is to take precautions to protect your neighbors and family. Is that not true?" Tamus explained.
Aiden exited the hut, allowing Tamus to sit awhile. A pain in his right side seared. He fell to the ground of the hut, panting. The Jedi confronted the Jedi Knights. She motioned for Denai to leave and she did. Jinn and Kenobi stood their ground. "I will come with you to Coruscant. I realize I require training. My grand father called you here for a reason and that was to help me. He feels I'm still corrupt." she turned back to the hut, then looked at the two. "Let's take a walk."
**
Aiden led the Jedi to the ancient Jedi Circle. The Circle was the dwelling of the Jedi Masters before the "holocaust". Statues of the Jedi Master stood in the hall, leading to the circle. Mira Ci, Jaden Chorus, Yareall and Ayden Sun. They were old statues, rusting away from their original appearance. Aiden stopped before the doors leading to the council chamber. She stepped forward as the door opened. Four chairs were set in the middle of the room. Aiden turned back again.
"These chambers used to house the Jedi Council. They're empty now. The holocaust brought about by one renegade Jedi who destroyed the council. They all were tortured and killed in this room." Aiden began. "They were taken out one by one. Without the council, this village would cease to exist. Everyone relied on them for help. That ended an era and began a new one. I helped them to rebuild their homes, but I couldn't fix what had happened. What I destroyed."
"I don't understand." Kenobi added.
"I helped to assassinate the council. I was Raj's right hand, his second in command. I tried to repent for years, offering my help. My cousin had to keep reminding me who I am a Jedi knight. I took the peace away."
Qui-Gon stepped forward. "Aiden, you made a mistake. This is very brave of you to admit what you did. You managed to escape the dark side alive and come back to the light. That was a big step." Jinn commented.
"I don't think that was even me. It was just an evil spirit taking control. I could never hurt anyone." Aiden cried.
"You're a good person, Aiden. You just need to find it in your heart to forgive yourself." Kenobi added. Jinn looked at his young apprentice surprised.
"I haven't done that truthfully." she paused, "I promised someone a long time ago to be a magnificent Jedi. I'm not one to break promises." as Aiden smiled.
**
Aiden knelt down to in front Denai. Denai was perhaps nineteen and a half years younger than Aiden, but she was tall for her age. She had shoulder length brown hair and brown eyes. Qui-Gon Jinn and Kenobi stood at the back watching Aiden's interaction with the girl and Tamus. "Do you really have to go?" Denai cried.
"As a Jedi knight, it's an obligation to train fully. Some of my power is still undeveloped." she said, looking at Tamus.
"I'll miss you." Denai sobbed. She grabbed the Aiden, hugging tightly and let go. Tears poured from the younger girl's eyes. Aiden stood up tall, confronting Tamus.
"Your mother would be very proud." Tamus added. "I am."
Aiden smiled back. She picked up a small duffel bag and head out, following Jinn and Kenobi. Tamus called after Jinn. "Please take care of her." Tamus cried.
Jinn turned back to face Tamus. "You have my word," half smiled and turned to leave. Aiden waved back and left, following the Jedi Knights.
**
Aiden Sule sat silently in the shuttle to Coruscant. Kenobi sat in the front piloting the craft, as Jinn took the back seat. Leaving orbit, Aiden peered out the window to take one last look at the planet below. Kenobi turned to Aiden. "Who's the small girl?" he asked.
Surprised, Aiden turned towards Kenobi. "My cousin. My grandfather and I raised her." Aiden lied.
"You two seemed closer than cousins." Kenobi admitted.
"Forget it. Just drop it." Aiden retorted.
Jinn leaned forward to Aiden. "Aiden, you better some sleep. It's going to be long trip back to Coruscant." Jinn suggested. Aiden stood up and left the cockpit, as Jinn leaned forward to Kenobi. "Obi-Wan, you shouldn't badger Aiden like that."
"She'll be with us for awhile. Mine as well get to know her." Kenobi replied.
"Be mindful, Obi-Wan." Jinn added.
"What is this? Dating tips, Master?" Kenobi joked.
"Just pilot the shuttle, Obi-Wan." Jinn retorted, as Kenobi adjusted the control panel.
**
Nine and a half days later the shuttle arrived on Coruscant. As the shuttle came about, Aiden came from the back and stood behind Kenobi. Jinn turned back to Aiden and gestured for her to take a seat. The Jedi women slid into an empty seat and buckled up. "Sleep well?" Kenobi asked. Aiden glared at him and rolled her eyes. Kenobi half smiled as the shuttle drifted to the surface.
The spire of the Jedi temple stood tall above the city. Aiden Sule stepped off the shuttle, standing tall on the platform. Qui-Gon turned to a deck officer. "I need to see the Jedi Council right away. We have a visitor." Jinn said, referring to Aiden.
"Yes sir." the officer replied, walking off the deck.
"How far to the temple?" Aiden asked.
"Not far. This way." Jinn directed.
Kenobi bowed down and smiled, "Ladies first." Aiden passed as Jinn shook his head in amazement.
**
Aiden and Kenobi watched from the back of the chamber as Master Jinn confronted the council, explaining Aiden's situation. Aiden could have stood up and speak for herself at anytime, but she remained in the back. Mace Windu, a human, black man turned to Yoda.
"Yes. Her powers were inherited from her mother's side." Jinn said.
Mace looked to the back. He gestured for Aiden to come forward. Aiden left Kenobi's side and went to stand by Jinn. "What is your name?" Windu asked.
"Aiden. Aiden Sule." she replied.
Yoda jumped up in surprise. Windu sat back comfortably and smiled. Kenobi and Jinn were puzzled by their actions towards Aiden. "Keeper of Peace, welcome to Coruscant." Windu said.
"Kyren Tamus, your Grand father is. Ceila Sule, your mother. Strong with the Force they are." Yoda analyzed.
Kenobi and Jinn looked to Aiden in surprise and dismay. Keeper of Peace. That title, by far was probably the most honorable title any Jedi master could give a Jedi knight.
"Was. My mother's deceased. She died two to three years ago." Aiden corrected them, "How do you know them?"
"Kyren Tamus basically put together the first Jedi Council on Ceruse 7. It was rumored that was when the first set of Jedi knights appeared. Once assembled..." Windu said.
"He dropped the minute I was born so I could be tested for Jedi potential." Aiden added in, surprising the two head masters. "I know the story; my mother and Tamus didn't talk about anything else."
"What of the council itself? Do they still exist?" Windu asked.
Aiden looked worriedly to Jinn and Kenobi. Jinn nodded that she explain what happened. She turned back to Yoda and Windu. "The council no longer exits. They were destroyed by a Dark Jedi, Raj and...I was his right hand for two years. I helped him." She paused, "He tortured all of them and I just stood back and watched. I had no concept I was helping to destroy the village heritage. My mother sensed something bad was about to happen. She rushed to warn me. I battled with Raj to let me go for a price. He cast a spell over Kalika, bounding the village people from touching the Force. By the time I left, my mother was left to confront Raj and lost. He murdered her." Stepping back.
She exited the room, leaving Yoda and Windu tenacious. Mace turned to Jinn and Yoda. After Aiden left, Kenobi followed. Master Jinn was left alone to confront the council. "She's strong." Windu added.
"Yes. The Dark spot in her heart is decreasing. She's learning to be passionate and loving she is." Yoda said.
"Strong and determined." Windu added.
"She is to be tested then?" Jinn asked.
"No need. Passed, she has. The greatest test, she did. " Yoda replied.
"What test?" Jinn asked.
"Admitting to her past. Atone for her sins." Windu replied.
"She is to be a Jedi?"
"Jedi? Yes. No need testing, trained she will." Yoda concluded. Jinn bowed and exited the chamber, as Windu and Yoda looked on.
**
Aiden leaned slightly against the temple balcony rail for support. She had never imagined the city would look so extraordinary from a top view. Then again, Aiden had never been in a city before. Everything was so new. The City of Coruscant, the Capital of the Republic had been the center of the universe for so long. Now it would be her home temporarily. Obi-Wan Kenobi, Jinn's young apprentice came from the hall to meet Aiden on the balcony. He smiled when he saw her. Kenobi came near, standing by Aiden.
"The city is so beautiful from up here." Aiden admitted.
"The Jedi Masters don't come up here to admire the view simply to discuss important matters." Obi-Wan
said.
"Things like this should not be taken for granted. This could be the last view you'll ever have of the city." she added.
As Aiden grasped the rail again, serge of energy struck her body. The vision lasted only five minutes. She had a glimpse of a tall dark man standing above the city in black robes, accompanied by a woman. Then it turned to black. Kenobi looked to Aiden concerned. She simply smiled back in return, ungrasping the rail. "I was shocked by the height. I didn't realize the spire rose far above the city." she lied.
"It is remarkable." Kenobi smiled, as did Aiden.
Master Qui-Gon Jinn stepped onto the balcony with ease. Jinn scanned the area for Kenobi and Aiden. He spotted them on the right side of the balcony and walked over. "Enjoying the view?" Jinn called.
"What's the verdict?" Kenobi added, jokingly.
"There's no need for Aiden to be tested." he turned to Aiden, "You'll begin your training early afternoon tomorrow."
Jinn turned to view the balcony as Aiden smiled and said, "Denai, she's my sister. My grandfather told me to keep her identity secret so Raj or any of his spies wouldn't find out. She's my sister, not my cousin." she paused, "I'm sorry I lied."
"You did what was necessary." Jinn said.
"Then why doesn't it feel enough?" Aiden added. She glimpsed at the balcony view one last time and head out into the hall, as Jinn and Kenobi followed.
**
Elsewhere, the same dark lord and women circle around a balcony. The woman was perhaps in her early twenties and thirties, with long black hair, distinct piercing blue eyes and light brown skin. She was very beautiful humanoid, but dangerous. A variety of weapons hung from her belt, including a lightsaber. The Dark Lord was dressed in a black robe, with a traditional Jedi gown. A black hood covered his face, hidden from the light. A type of breath mask covered his mouth. The Lord's forehead looked like burnt reptilian skin; his eyes were fiery reds. His center pupil was bright yellow. He himself carried a lightsaber. The Lord turned to the women. "You know your mission. At all costs, destroy the remaining Jedi from Ceruse 7. You have your orders, Darth Syren." the Lord commanded in a snake like voice.
"Aiden Sule won't know what hit her before its too late. I'll play with her first and make her suffer slowly." Syren replied.
"Don't be overconfident, Syren. First comes suffering, then fear, a slow death and then the kill." he slithered.
She women bowed her head and exited the balcony. The Lord remained on the walkway viewing the city.
Below, the women walked to a narrow craft engraved Headhunter. Syren boarded the ship's ramp. She situated herself in to the pilot seat, flipping on the graphing chart. Syren typed in CERUSE 7 and the planet's coordinates appeared on the screen. The women memorized the coordinates and flipped the computer grid off. Syren called in a DL-12 droid. A pudgy banged up droid appeared from the back.
"Yes mistress." the droid replied.
"How far is the Jedi Temple from here?" the women asked.
"12.5 kilometers to the north west center of the city." DL answered.
"Keep the ship here. Remove ship markings. The Hunter should look like it's a normal smuggling craft. That will be all." she concluded.
The DL bowed and backed into the engineering section. The women switched on the grid again and examined the coordinates.
**
By the time Kenobi awoke, Aiden seemed to be gone. He stood up from the couch and found her beginning a Yoga type exercise. Aiden wore black pants, a white T-shirt and sleek brown pants. A small light saber sat on a table. Kenobi guessed it was hers. Aiden brought her hand up, palm facing Kenobi as she barely saw him at an angle.
"Your up?" Aiden said.
Kenobi nodded yes.
"Come on. We're late for training." she retorted, grabbing her lightsaber. On the way out, she pulled a black vest jacket from the closet as Kenobi followed.
**
Qui-Gon Jinn stood calmly in the local gym, waiting for Aiden and Kenobi. He was patient. Jinn turned when he heard footsteps come down the hallway. The bay door swung open and Aiden and Kenobi walked in.
"Sorry master for the delay. I overslept." Kenobi apologized.
Jinn simply smiled back, relieving Kenobi of worry. He turned to Aiden and noticed a lone lightsaber on her belt. "You have a lightsaber."
"Yes. Is that a problem?" Aiden asked.
"No." Jinn suddenly answered back distracted.
Aiden obviously recognized his actions and replied, "My mother gave it to me. Come on, we better get started."
**
Kenobi and Aiden faced off, as Jinn looked on. Jinn gave the signal to begin, as Aiden was the first to draw her sabre. Kenobi followed. He struck Aiden purple blade first. She counter attacked him by switching hands. A smile sprung across his face in amusement. Aiden doubled back. The two sabers interlocked as Aiden faced off against Kenobi. Sweat covered Kenobi's forehead. They were so close; Kenobi could have kissed her on the spot. She pushed him away, flinging him to the floor. Jinn stood on the sideline, watching intently.
Suddenly as Aiden drew back a premonition struck her. The same women she saw earlier struck down another unseen Jedi. It lasted only seconds. Aiden looked up for a minute, unprepared for the next attack. She rolled to the side and gestured time. Kenobi lowered his lightsaber and helped Aiden. Jinn ran over to assist him.
"I'm sorry. I thought you were prepared for the next attack." Obi-Wan apologized.
Jinn already read Aiden's expression and knew what was wrong. "It was a vision, wasn't it?" Jinn asked.
Aiden nodded yes, as Kenobi sat confused and lost.
**
Aiden pulled back her long black hair into a ponytail. She didn't need anything obstructing her view. Obi-Wan handed her a glass of water. Receiving the cup, she half-smiled. Qui-Gon faced Aiden with great concern. "What happened? What did you see?" Jinn inquired.
Aiden looked to Kenobi, then returned to Jinn. Her expression was more worried than calm and Qui-Gon saw right through it. "The first premonition I had was on the balcony with Kenobi." she said suddenly turning to him, "A dark lord was accompanied by a women assassin, somewhere else in the city."
"Could you identify who the lord was?" Obi-Wan asked.
"No. Not at first. My second premonition I had more detail. I can picture him, but I can't fit the face." Aiden regretted.
"What kind of Dark Lord uses a female assassin?" Kenobi wondered.
Jinn stood tall before Aiden and Kenobi. "We should contact the council immediately. Let them know there might be trouble."
"You go do that. I'm going to do some research." Aiden replied, then walked out adding, "By the way I'm left handed." and left.
Kenobi stood in shock, looking to Jinn in surprise. Instead of opening another conversation, Jinn simply left as Kenobi shortly followed.
**
Qui-Gon Jinn stood strong before the council. Kenobi nervously stood in the back worried about Aiden. Aiden's premonition. A Jedi was to be struck down by a lone Master. The two questions were: Who was the Jedi Master and who the enemy was?
"Do you know who this Dark Lord is?" Windu asked.
"No, but according to Aiden's vision he was capable of slaying a Jedi Knight himself." Jinn replied.
"What of the assassin? Know her identity, do you?" Yoda injected.
Jinn nodded no to the Masters. Before another word was spoken, Aiden entered the room. "Lord Xizner." she said, coming forward, suddenly halting next to Jinn. "His name's Xizner."
"How did you find out the information so quickly?" Kenobi asked.
"I called my grandfather. He remembered a rival Jedi assassin he put to death." she paused, "The assassin was Xizner."
"Of course." Kenobi added, "Because he was dead and incapable of carrying his duties by himself, he'd need the help of an expert assassin to..." he stopped before answering.
"How was he resurrected?" Windu wondered.
"A Magic of some sort. Probably by another Dark Jedi or a unknowing civilian." Aiden hypothesized.
"The target. Do you know who it is, yes?" Yoda chuckled, suddenly sending an echo of silence through the chamber.
Aiden stepped forward again. "I believe since my grandfather isn't here, I Am." adding, "It's only logical."
Windu looked to Yoda again. The master turned to Aiden and Jinn. "Trust your instinct, you do. Believe in them?" Yoda asked.
Aiden nodded yes. "A decoy. We will send a decoy, we will. Necessary it is." Yoda concluded.
"If Aiden's life is in danger, we will use necessary precautions." Jinn responded.
Aiden nodded her head and started out of the chamber. She passed Kenobi, glared at him and left. For one moment, Kenobi felt her disappointment. She wanted to confront the Master and fight him. Confronting a Dark Master was the ticket to becoming a full-blown Jedi.
Kenobi walked forward, injecting, "Why can't Aiden face him?"
"She is not yet ready. Aiden must be properly trained first. A Jedi with no training is incapable of such a fight." Windu analyzed.
"She can fight this Lord. Her grandfather probably told her every detail about him. His weaknesses, skills and behavior." Jinn added, backing Kenobi up.
Qui-Gon looked to Yoda. The small green alien sat still. His gaze switched to Windu. "Come Obi-Wan. Our business is finished here." Qui-Gon instructed. Obi-Wan hesitated a minute, then turned to leave.
**
Aiden leaned against the wall, outside the council chamber. She probably was the target, which meant she could face Xizner but she was denied that chance. Walking out seemed like the only solution. She stood straight again to greet Jinn and Kenobi. Kenobi flashed Aiden a quick smile, and then died down to a frown. Qui-Gon turned to Aiden. "I'm sorry. I can't fight against the council. They're sending a decoy." Jinn somberly replied.
Aiden nodded her head. "They don't understand. Xizner is after me. Which means I should be the one fighting him."
"I know, believe me. But the council is partially right," Jinn paused, "If you fight Xizner, you might be tempted to cross over to the Dark side."
"I've been to the dark side. I don't want to go back there." she cried, then calmed herself down, "I'm more careful now. I've learned from my mistakes. I should be the one fighting. I can't allow anyone else to get hurt because of me."
Aiden looked to Kenobi. Obi-Wan turned to Jinn. "Master, perhaps Aiden is ready." Obi-Wan added.
Her mind wondered a moment who the decoy was? Maybe she could switch places with the decoy. Although Jinn, Kenobi and the Council would probably find out. Kenobi was about to open his mouth on the subject when Aiden cut him off. "I am the Keeper of Peace. It's my responsibility to take care of the matter. Not only that, if Xizner finds out the truth, he'll come here and destroy everything. I can't lay that responsibility on the two of you and the council." Aiden declared.
"Aiden, your title doesn't matter here. In truth, Yoda and Master Windu normally have a higher authority than a Keeper of Peace. Keepers are just pawns for Jedi Masters." Kenobi admitted.
"Pawns? Wouldn't that mean you two are just `pawns'?" Aiden said. Her question made the two Jedi knights think about who they were as individuals and protectors of Justice.
**
Aiden strolled through the Botanical Gardens. Who was she? A pawn for the Jedi Masters to use? The Keeper of Peace. That title was bestowed upon her by the Tribal Council. Only now, the Council no longer existed because of her. Perhaps her title only meant she wasn't truly a Jedi, simply a pawn in some game. It didn't seem right that she was the only one holding the title, when other Jedi were as courageous as she was. She focused her eyes at the afternoon sky. She covered her eyes from the sun. The Jedi women could barely make out a lone man coming towards her. It took awhile to realize who her visitor was. Kenobi. No doubt, Master Jinn probably sent him to talk to her. Aiden was being baby-sat by two Jedi Knights. She squinted her eyes again.
"Aiden, I came to talk to you. Let's take a walk." Kenobi said.
She rolled her eyes and followed the Jedi Knight.
**
"I can fight him. I know I don't exactly fit the profile of a normal Jedi, but my grand father told me everything I need to defeat him. If someone else's faces him and loses, that guilt will be on my conscious for eternity." Aiden admitted.
Kenobi turned to Aiden. The sunlight glistened off his shaved brown hair, giving him more of complexion. "I understand how you feel. But the councils' decision stays. You can't do anything." he rebutted.
Aiden turned around, feeling her head. She looked straight at the sun with determination. "I was destined to do so much, not just being a Jedi but a Keeper of Peace. I didn't think the title was such a big deal at first, but I have the power to stop Xizner." she turned back to Kenobi, "Is there any way I can take the decoy's place? If I do, I can fight Xizner, while the two of you hunt the assassin. It's a simple plan and I know it can work."
Kenobi remained silent.
**
Syren silently knelt on one of Coruscant's balcony roof, watching Aiden and Kenobi secret meeting. She switched on the microphone, abling her to hear everything. While monitoring the conversation, Syren opened a small briefcase and removed an assassin's rifle. Already loaded, Syren focused on Aiden. She slightly pressed the trigger and fired.
Kenobi looked up towards the building. He saw the assassin. He pushed Aiden aside, as the laser hit the gardens ground. Aiden peered up again, as Kenobi knelt over her. The assassin aimed again for another shot. The Jedi slowly removed her lightsaber. Aiden pressed the on button and the saber ignited in a silver purple blade. She held the weapon in front of Kenobi, as the blast was deflected off and hit the assassin. Wounded, the women escaped off the roof, taking her rifle and equipment.
Aiden sat patiently as Qui-Gon treated her wounds. Kenobi wasn't hurt badly, just a bruise. Jinn sat back as Aiden moved her arm several times to feel the flow of blood. By moving her arm, Aiden reduced the pain in her shoulder. She looked to Jinn and Kenobi.
"Well, I think it's obvious now who the target is." Aiden said.
"Yes, the assassination attempt proves it. Did you get a good look at the assassin?" Jinn asked.
She looked to Kenobi, and then switched her gaze to Jinn. "Not enough to give a description, but I think I hurt her pretty badly. The last fire, I deflected with my saber. It may have hit her shooting arm."
"That would be a reason to retreat." Jinn analyzed.
"Master, I don't think we're dealing with a normal Jedi Assassin. There's more to the plot." Kenobi added.
Aiden froze a moment, thinking over what Kenobi said. There was more to the plot. Probably something close to home. Aiden rose to her feet. Kenobi held her gently from falling. Jinn rose himself, recognizing the emotion and fear in Aiden. "I have to return to Ceruse. My grandfather and sister might be in danger," she cried.
Kenobi blocked her from leaving.
"This assassin attempt might just be a distraction from what's really going on. If that's true, Xizner could be on Ceruse right now. I have to be there. Kalika has no defenses. They wouldn't have a chance."
Kenobi looked to Jinn. Jinn nodded his head okay. "Okay, but we'll come with you. You might need some back up."
**
Late in the afternoon, Jinn and Kenobi accompanied a disguised Aiden to the departure platform. Aiden was dressed in a normal Jedi robe, hood covering her face. She only hoped the plan would work. The Jedi slightly looked up to see the deck officer from before. Aiden quickly dropped her eyes to the floor. Jinn and Kenobi faced the officer in command. "We have orders from the council to bring this decoy to Ceruse 7." Jinn waved his hand, suddenly sending a subliminal message to the officer. "You will allow us to pass. You have no need for identification."
"I will allow you to pass. I have no need for identification." the officer repeated, allowing them to pass.
Jinn turned to Obi-Wan and looked away, as he escorted Aiden to the ship, watching her back. Once they boarded and the ramp was closed, Aiden removed her hood and dropped the robe on a lounge chair. Kenobi and Jinn were already in the cockpit, preparing for take off. She looked worriedly to the two. "Don't worry, Aiden. The worst is over. All we have to do now is make our leaving look like a regular departure." Jinn said.
"I'm not worried about that. It's Denai and Tamus. They're all the family I have. I can't lose them." Aiden replied somberly, and then sat down.
**
From a distance, Syren sat on the roof of another building focusing her micro binoculars. The ship, Kenobi, Jinn and Aiden took was beginning to lift off. Its repulsors lift flared and the frigate jettisoned into space. She lowered the binoculars, gut up and walked to the center. Syren pulled out a small locator pushed a red button and the ship manifested out of air. A cloaking device. She walked on board the craft. It took awhile to start up. Two blasters were extended from the craft, as air pushed the frigate up into the air. The blaster closed inside the ship and blasted off after the Jedi.
Obi-Wan hands' flied over the shuttle's control panel. Jinn sat back quietly observing his padawan's tactics.
Aiden remained in the back, sitting at the lounge table. She examined a small locket she kept around her neck. Aiden flipped the clasp and the locket flipped open to reveal Aiden's father and mother. For a moment, Aiden closed her eyes, focusing on her deep thoughts of family.
A young Aiden Sule was running around the background of a small hut, playing hide and seek with her father. Ceila was inside cooking dinner for the three. Aiden's mind flashed forward several years to remember her father's burial and mother's murder. Aiden opened her eyes, tears rolling down her cheek. She was pushing to hard to remember what her life was like. Aiden wiped away the tears then placed the locket around her neck. Jinn quietly looked to the lounge. Although Aiden didn't see him, he knew she was distressed. Qui-Gon moved back into position. Kenobi gazed to his master.
"How's our passenger?" Obi-Wan finally said.
It had been hours since someone actually said something. Jinn turned to Kenobi. "More worried than before. All of Aiden's world has just been shattered, wounded by the arrival of this Jedi Assassin." Jinn analyzed.
Kenobi looked worried. Jinn noticed his the worry in his young student and motioned he could go back. Obi-Wan left the controls to see how Aiden was doing, as Jinn took command. He laid a hand on Aiden. She gazed up. Aiden looked like a lost soul seeking protection. Kenobi sat down next to Aiden.
"I remember how much I loved my father and mother. We went on this picnic one time. Dad and I played hide-and-seek. Later in my teens, my father grew sick. The doctors in my village couldn't figure out what was wrong, neither could I. I had no idea he was in so much pain." Aiden paused, "The day he died, I didn't feel right to wear my Jedi cloak at his burial. My mother and grandfather did, but I didn't. Yet somehow, I became the Keeper of Peace and I wore the cloak more and more."
"Then you'll wear it once again and this time, you'll be able to save the two most important people in your life. Death won't claim them again." Kenobi said. His words seemed somewhat comforting, but it didn't vaporize her feeling of worry.
**
Shortly behind the craft, Syren's shuttle, The Assassin's Fire, monitored the Jedi presence. In the small of the cockpit, Syren sat quietly, moving her hands over the controls. For many years, Syren was a hired gun, now, she was to exterminate the first of the New Jedi order. Aiden Sule. Her lord, Xizner, commanded she be dead. Syren didn't bother to ask why, simply take the orders and carry them out. Syren's mind was like a machine. She never questioned given orders, used all means to finish her task and never frowned on a dead body. If she were captured, it would be better to be killed, rather than divulge any information to the enemy.
She checked the life signs of the craft. The computer picked up two other beings in the craft. Syren knew it was Jinn and Kenobi, protecting Aiden. She knew better. Aiden wanted to take the place of the decoy sent by the council. Jinn and Kenobi came along as insurance. She could read the emotions of the Jedi, know what they were thinking. Syren lowered the cloaking device and maintained normal speed.
From the back, Xizner rose from the galley. Syren didn't turn around to face her master, simply remain seated.
He kept his light sabre close to his side, opposite a rifle. "You missed to exterminate Sule before. I will give you two more chances; a third to redeem yourself. Remember, Syren you must make the shot count." Xizner said, and then stepped back into the shadows.
Alone, Syren said, "I make all my shots count."
Syren was so close to her prey. If she failed the last three times, Xizner would take her place and destroy Aiden himself. It would probably be a fair fight, but in the end, Aiden would die and Xizner would go down in history for killing the granddaughter of Kyren Tamus. Syren wanted that title for herself. No one could take it from her. She would lose her reputation as a galaxy headhunter. She couldn't let that happen.
**
Five and a half days later, the Jedi shuttle came out of Hyperspace, four point five kilometers near Ceruse 7. Kenobi pulled back the last lever on the cruise control, switching from autopilot to manual pilot. Aiden sat next to Kenobi. Qui-Gon Jinn walked behind Aiden, standing between the two. "So what's our first stop? Do we go straight to the village?" Jinn asked Aiden.
"No. There's someone I need to see first. A quote unquote old friend. She lives near Crystal Pond, in the White Mountain Range." Aiden said. She carefully examined the planet for disturbances. Aiden felt nothing. Everything was calm. That was either good or bad, she didn't know. Aiden pointed to her home continent and
Kenobi flew the shuttle in that direction.
**
Aiden led Master Jinn and Kenobi to the White Mountain Range. As she went, Aiden still felt no disturbance in the forest. All the sounds were normal. But she didn't trust her senses. The friend she was visiting would know if something were wrong. Though to be blunt, they weren't exactly friends. They weren't enemies either. Kenobi walked beside Aiden. She paused before a small man-made rock house on the side of the mountain. Qui-Gon carefully felt the aura around the house. He was sure Aiden felt it too. Nothing evil. Aiden knocked on the door three times, rhythmically. She waited a few minutes, and then a younger woman opened the door. Kenobi and Jinn stood silently.
"Aiden, come in." the girl said, inviting the other Jedi too.
The house was indeed man-made. Every wall, shelf was made from mud. It wasn't tiny like the two of them expected. There was a small wooden couch in the center. It could fit maybe two people. Three, if the third person was small. A marble table sat between the couch and the chair, the girl was sitting on. During storms, the mud-house would be invincible. Not one leak would seek through. Aiden and Kenobi took the couch, while Jinn just stood in the back. The girl looked like she was about in her early twenties. She had light brown hair, gray eyes and the face of an innocent angel.
"So why have you come?" she asked.
"Before I answer that, this is Master Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is Jaya, she's a Jedi witch." Aiden said.
"Former Sith Witch. You left that out." Jaya added, modestly.
"That was a long time ago. You were sort of supporting your sister." Aiden corrected her, half-smiling. "Have you felt or seen anything different lately?"
"No. Why? Did you sense Kalika was in trouble?" Jaya questioned.
"A couple days ago, I had this vision on Coruscant. A Jedi assassin, rose from the dead. A women headhunter accompanied him. I assumed, since I was the target, she'd come here to start with my family and work her way back to me." Aiden explained.
"No one's come, Aiden. I patrol around the village every once in awhile and I haven't seen anyone. But to be on the safe side, you could stay two days and see if anything happens." Jaya paused, "I'll back you up, of course."
"Thanks Jaya." Aiden said.
Jaya turned to Kenobi. She obviously felt he had a question about her. "Ask me?"
"What?" Kenobi said, alarmed.
"You want to know how old I am, since I'm a witch." Jaya replied.
Kenobi smiled foolishly. Jaya had the ability to read thoughts and emotions. "Since, we brought it up, how old are you?" Kenobi jokingly asked.
"Hundred and thirty-five standard years." Jaya replied, shocking Kenobi.
Jaya smiled, and then stood up. Aiden and Kenobi followed. "It was good to see you Jaya. I'll talk to my grandfather, as a favor to you. So he'll trust you again." Aiden replied.
"That would be great. It's hard to patrol when your only great distance away." Jaya added, showing them to the door.
**
As Aiden led the Jedi back to her village, she listened carefully to the sounds of the forest. In her youth, she learned to listen for differences in sound, signaling danger. Yet, something wasn't quite right. Something else was going on, besides the mission at hand. Aiden wondered if that something was...
She didn't know.
Kenobi walked silently beside Aiden, as Jinn followed. Both were unaware of the attack when it happened. Aiden stopped the two, scanned the woods. The same assassin Kenobi encountered on Coruscant was hidden behind some tree branches, at an angle. Kenobi looked to Aiden in dismay. The assassin fired striking Aiden's shoulder. It was only hurt, not broken. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon quickly removed their lightsaber and ignited them. Aiden grabbed hers. The assassin fired again, only this time, Aiden was able to deflect the fire. She looked to Kenobi and Jinn. "Stay here. Keep her occupied." Aiden said as she snuck through the bushes to find the assassin.
Syren fired again and again at the Jedi; unaware the main target had left the area. The Jedi woman had damaged her main shooting arm on Coruscant so she switched hands. Syren fired again. Aiden silently climbed the trees, snatching a gun from her belt. She placed the sabre back on her belt. Jinn and Kenobi distracted the attacker. She climbed one more branch, reached the top and crept behind the attacker. Aiden set the gun to stun and pointed it at her neck.
"Don't move. I have my gun set on STUN. If you move, I'll sever your spinal cord and legs." Aiden said.
On the ground, Kenobi and Jinn waited patiently for Aiden's arrival. They assumed after the firing ceased, Aiden captured the assassin. They were right. Aiden came down the path with the assassin. Jinn noticed she was pointing a gun at her back. "Come on. Let's get to the village." Aiden added, pushing the women assassin further.
Denai Sule walked to the center well, carrying two buckets and some cloths. Tamus' condition was worsening and again, she didn't have the abilities to ease his pain. She drove the first bucket into the well, placed it on the ground and did the same with the second. Denai rubbed her head, suddenly looking up to see her old sister, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan with her sister. It could have been a mirage, but she could feel her sister's thoughts.
Instead of running over, she stayed there and waited for them. Denai managed a smile to lighten the mood. Aiden, Jinn and Kenobi approached Denai. Aiden hugged her younger sibling.
"It's great to see you." Denai lied, holding back the pain.
Aiden released Denai from the hug. She felt depression inside of her. There was that something. "What's wrong?" Aiden asked.
Denai's smile turned to a frown. She looked down to the well. Denai picked up the buckets and nodded that they follow her back to the hut.
Denai laid the buckets on the floor, picked up the towel and dipped it into the water. She laid it on Tamus' head. Denai got up again and confronted Aiden. In some way, Aiden knew what her sister was going to tell her but said nothing.
"What's wrong with him?" Aiden finally asked.
"He's sick, Aiden. The village doctors think it's the same illness that killed father. Although, they don't know why it's spreading since it's not hereditary." Denai replied softly.
Before Denai could say one more word, Aiden knelt down and faced her grandfather. This man had raised her for years since her parent's death. She kissed his cheek and the old man opened his eyes. Aiden managed to smile. Tamus smiled back. "Aiden, my grand daughter, what are doing here?" he whispered. "Certainly not see me. Denai didn't call you, did she?"
Aiden peered to Denai, then back at Tamus. "No. She didn't. I'm here for another reason." Aiden sadly admitted.
"What is it?" Tamus asked.
"Lord Xizner. He's here. I'm going to stop him. We stopped here first to see if he had come and caused trouble." Aiden explained.
"Xizner. He's alive. Then the worst has happened. If he is alive, then we're all in danger." Tamus added.
Denai touched Aiden's shoulder. "Aiden, we should let him rest." then went outside.
Aiden kissed the old man's forehead, then head outside to talk with her sister. Jinn obviously knew this wasn't a happy visit.
**
Denai leaned over the well. She was angry. Not just at herself, but at Aiden. She probably should have called to let her know what was going on. Now, Aiden had brought danger to their people again. Denai had heard the stories of her sister's past. Now this was going to be another chapter added to the book.
"Denai, you have to understand. I never meant to bring danger to the village. It just happened." Aiden admitted.
Denai turned to Aiden.
"Aiden, I'm sick of this. I'm tired of handling things by myself. An assassin, who is by the way, supposed to be dead. How are you even sure, you can defeat him. If you can't, he'll wipe us all out." Denai cried.
"I understand how you feel. I'm done allot to harm this village, but now I'm saving it. Kalika won't be wiped out." Aiden said.
Suddenly Denai frowned. Tears rolled down her cheek. "Aiden, you don't understand. If the assassin kills you and grandfather dies, I won't have anyone. No one can take care of me."
Aiden walked over and hugged her sister gingerly. "That won't happen, I promise. You won't be alone."
**
Darth Syren failed. Before, she struggled hard to escape from her bonds. Now it was useless. The Jedi woman, Aiden, was going to be triumphant. Since she wouldn't be around to protect him, Aiden would strike Xizner down with one blow. Last time they met, Xizner was still recovering from being dead for so many years. He had yet to rediscover his deadly power. Even if she had managed to escape, the Jedi women would take her down without a thought. Jedi.
They were barbarians, nomads who roamed the galaxy recruiting more nomads to join the vicious cult known as the Jedi. Aiden's grandfather was one of the first nomads to have killed in cold blood (Xizner to be exact). Syren moved to the side, leaning against the rough wood of the hut. Thinking of the Jedi gave her a migraine the size of a comet. She huffed. Syren winced her head, twitching an eye cord. She was beginning to feel...feel like human. Her micro processes were failing. Human nerves were replacing them. Syren's eye cord twitched again, placing her micro processes back into service. Of course, the chip in her neck spine would have to be replaced. She started to slouch and hunch over. Syren closed her eyes, calmed her systems and sent a message to her neural brain processes to stop slouching. Immediately, her back went straight again, facing the door.
There would be no more malfunctions.
As she faced the door, the Jedi women, Aiden, and the other two male Jedi appeared. Aiden approached her first, as the other two stayed back. She examined Syren closely, squinting her eyes. The Jedi woman was trying to probe her mind, find out what she knew. Each time, she was blocked and pushed away. Aiden stood up again.
"Something is peculiar. I was blocked. But no Jedi assassin can block a mind probe." Aiden said.
"A cyborg can." she finally retorted, shocking the three. Syren slithered her head towards them. "I'm a cyborg. My name Syren stands for the class of prototype cyborg used as assassins."
Aiden turned to Kenobi and Jinn. "It fits. A Jedi probe wouldn't be penetrated by a cyborg, because cyborg don't have thoughts." Kenobi added.
"I have thoughts. I was programmed to think for myself, view matters in my own way and take necessary actions." she said, suddenly cutting off.
Sparks flew from Syren's head, short-circuiting. Aiden knelt down again and faced Syren. It was probably a bad move to make. Syren abruptly opened her eyes again, reached for her neck, choking Aiden. Kenobi rushed to Aiden's side, trying to free her while Qui-Gon looked for the off switch. Aiden's face began to turn pink, face swollen. Before Aiden gave out, Qui-Gon pulled Syren's switch, releasing Aiden from her deadly grip. Aiden fell onto the floor gasping for air, while Kenobi lightly held her.
Aiden was more determined than ever to stop Xizner. A few minutes ago, Xizner's cyborg assassin could have killed her. But she survived. Sitting on the center well, Aiden modified her blaster gun. She examined her light sabre and tampered with an electric tracking device. Aiden needed every advantage and support to stop Xizner. The Jedi women placed the tracer in a small pants pocket. Her lightsaber hung opposite the blaster gun. She pulled her hair back into a bun. Aiden wore a tight sleeveless black blouse, regular black-pocketed pants and black rubber boots. She didn't even resemble a normal Jedi. Aiden jumped to her feet, standing tall. She was ready.
The Jedi turned to face the Jinn and Kenobi with Denai. Denai stepped forward and hugged her sister for good luck. "Be careful, Aiden. I never told you that I am proud to be your sister. I feel it right now." Denai cried.
She let got of Denai, "Denai. Listen to me. Grandfather. It's your job to protect and help him get better." Aiden said.
Denai frowned. "I don't know what to do?" she cried again.
"Growing up, grand father taught you about medicine. Maybe its time you put that knowledge to use." Aiden smiled, facing Jinn and Kenobi, "I guess its time for me to do the same thing."
**
The ruins of the ancient Sith Temple had an eerie feeling. It seemed weird for Aiden to be re-entering the temple that simultaneously changed her life. It was like the temple started her life before she had the chance to live it. Aiden turned to Jinn and Kenobi.
"So this is the legendary Sith Witch Temple," Kenobi said, gazing about, "It doesn't look to scary."
Jinn looked to Aiden and asked, "Aiden, why are we here?"
"This place is a sanctuary for Sith lords and witches. If Xizner needs to recuperate he'll come here and do it. The powers of the temple can rejuvenate a Sith Master," Aiden explained.
Kenobi gazed at the altar in center of the chambers. Jinn and Aiden turned to Kenobi. "Master, the alter." he said.
Aiden stepped forward and examined the altar carefully. There was an empty space. "The book has been taken." she whispered.
The three of them gathered around the altar, as a lone figure entered the room. A cold breeze brushed Aiden and it whispered, "Aiden Ssssss ---Sule."
**
Denai paced about the sick house. Tamus felt his grand daughter's frustration and fear. She was also making him dizzy. Denai stopped pacing, ran to the table and began to flip through the medicine book. The youth stopped at a certain page and began to read. She peered up at the old man. "I need an assistant." Denai realized.
Tamus plopped his head onto the pillow. Denai knelt on the ground floor, closed her eyes and summoned Jaya. The former Sith Witch was her only hope. She could not use a light sabre or manipulate the Force, but Denai had a sense of long-range telepathy. Jaya, I need your help. Come to me. Denai cried.
Jaya leaned over the stove and smelled the scented aroma of her baked stew. She began to taste the wooden spoon, when she heard Denai's call. "Denai." Jaya cried.
She dropped the spoon and blew out the fire. Before heading out the door, she grabbed her sabre and a black cloak.
Denai faced her grandfather again. She sat down on chair, waiting.
~~
"Aiden Ssss-Sule." the voice whispered again.
Aiden, Jinn, and Kenobi turned around and ignited their sabers. The Jedi stood ready to fight. A dark silhouette appeared in the doorway. They felt his aura. It was as dark as a frozen stone. Lord Xizner.
Xizner held out a double Sith lightsaber. Aiden turned to her side, Kenobi nodded good luck. The Lord stepped forward and thrusted at Aiden. She blocked him. While Xizner used his right to fight Aiden, Kenobi took the left.
Jinn yelled to the others, "I'm going to look for the book." and ran off.
Qui-Gon Jinn wandered through the Sith Temple for possible trap doors. He left Aiden and Kenobi to fight Xizner, while he searched for the Sith Book. Jinn knew his apprentice would protect Aiden from harm. Qui-Gon spotted the shadow of a young man. The mysterious man must have felt he was near, because he started to run. Jinn raced after the young man, hoping he had the Sith book.
Denai waited patiently for Jaya to arrive. In her youth, she learned medicine from her grand father's schooling. That knowledge was buried now. She needed some experienced to talk her through. Jaya was that person.
The girl looked to the bed. Tamus was getting weaker by the minute. She stared back at the door, hoping Jaya would arrive soon.
Master Jinn continued his pursuit after the mysterious shadow. Somehow, he felt the shadow was making him run in circles to distract him. Qui-Gon kept up the pace and started to run harder.
Jaya rushed into the medical hut. She stood at the door and stared at Denai. Jaya looked at the book, then at Tamus. The old man was helpless, as was Denai. "He's getting weaker. What do you want me to do?" she asked.
Sweat streamed down Aiden's forehead. She never flinched for a minute, for fear that something terrible would happen. As she battled Xizner, Kenobi peered at her. She didn't return the gesture. He turned back to Xizner. The lord punched Kenobi in the face, which flung him to the floor. He was out cold. Aiden knew she couldn't help Kenobi. She only hoped Jinn made it back to him in time.
Time. It can be a valuable ally, but it can also be our enemy. Time wasn't on Denai's side. Tamus' condition was deteriorating at a tremendous rate.
Jaya, the former Sith witch, tried everything she could think of that would increase's Tamus' health. Nothing worked.
"What are we going to do? We have no options and Tamus is slipping through our fingers." Denai cried.
The witch slammed the medical book closed. Denai thought she had given up, but she had another plan. Jaya knelt by Tamus' bed, placed her hands on opposite sides of his head, palms facing in. As she was going to perform a telepathic connection to Tamus' unconscious mind, Denai stood back and watched.
~~
Aiden still managed to with out Kenobi. Xizner had driven her from Kenobi to some other part of the temple and Master Jinn was looking for the Sith Book. No one else could help her it was all up to Aiden. She was alone now.
Xizner fought with immense force. He was of reptilian origin. His eyes were a piercing yellow and his skin was a dark blue-gray with a rough texture. A silver-breathing mask was snugly placed over his nose and mouth.
The mask. It was vital for his life processes. It supplied the amount of tinted oxygen, which traveled to his brain. Aiden know how to defeat him. If she managed to tear off the mask, he'd die within a minute's breath of suffocation. The air was intoxicating to his systems.
~~
Jaya reopened her eyes, as she found her spirit was inside Tamus' unconscious mind. The witch gazed around. Somehow, she was transported back several years before Aiden and Denai were born. Kyren Tamus was a young man of twenty. He wore the robe of a Jedi, but she felt he was more than that. A Jedi Master. Tamus was approaching the Jedi Inner Circle for help, help to capture a Jedi gone bad. The Jedi was Xizner.
Like most travels to the past, she couldn't intervene only watch and listen. She watched as the legendary the Jedi Inner Circle council members: Ayden Sun, Mira Ci, Jaden Chorus and Yareall listened to his case. It was exciting, yet sad. They were only images. Jaya frowned as she remembered the terrors of the Jedi holocaust that brought about their deaths. She shook her head. Her main focus was finding the cause for Tamus' illness.
"We shall use all our resources to locate Xizner's where about. Until then, I suggest you stay out of sight. If Xizner ever found out that you're still alive, he'd be furious."
Jaya stared at Tamus and wondered why his presence would infuriate Xizner. She listened some more.
"Master Sun, I am strong. If I must, I'll confront Xizner. But I will not hide. I'm not afraid." Tamus replied.
"Ahh, but you fear your daughter's life, you do. She is the only lifeline left in your family. If Xizner nears Ceila and kill hers, it will be only a matter of time before he kills you and us." Yareall pointed out.
"Once again, I'm not afraid to face Xizner. I know it to be my destiny. I trained him. It is only appropriate that I be the one to destroy him." Tamus said.
"Trained him? Tamus trained him. That's why he's sick. Xizner must have somehow implanted a virus to kill him the only way he knows." Jaya realized.
~~
Kenobi carefully sat up and felt his head. The last thing he remembered was fighting along side fellow Padawan, Aiden Sule when Xizner punched him in the face and flung his body to the floor. Obi-Wan took a severe hit to the head. He stood up slowly. At that moment, he realized he was alone. Aiden and Xizner were gone. He assumed Xizner lured her to a different part of the temple and Master Jinn; he was searching for the book.
Jinn were still searching for the book. He stopped a minute, tired and unwilling to go on. What was he doing? Chasing a ghost wasn't achieving anything, except waste time. Qui-Gon's instincts told him to go on but what good would that do? Nothing. He probably wasn't even chasing anything to begin with. Jinn stood up and walked back to the center.
Aiden breathed more heavily now. She knew what she had to do. The Jedi swung her saber with great force. Finally, Aiden struck Xizner's mask and flung it to the floor. For a minute, he stood tall then collapsed. Her instincts were right. The air killed his lungs. Purple veins began to sear on his reptilian neck. Some of them burst. Even though he was down, Xizner still held his dead light sabre. His reptilian body gave out and the saber tumbled out of his hand.
The Jedi began to walk towards him, to make sure it wasn't a trick. As she came near, the reptilian body disintegrated into dust. She nodded her head in approval. It was over.
Jaya followed Tamus' spirit, when everything around her went blank. She didn't know if it was a good or bad. The witch looked down. Her hands and lower body was disappearing. Jaya didn't fight it. She felt everything was okay.
Denai watched Jaya's motionless body. It was probably too late for Tamus. She was wrong. The old man opened his eyes and began to sit up. Denai was shocked. The girl leapt from her chair and hugged her grand father.
At that moment, Jaya's spirit re-entered her body. Her eyes opened. She flexed her muscles to get adjusted to her solid form. The witch looked to Denai, who was hugging her live grand father and crying.
Qui-Gon knelt beside his apprentice, as he surveyed his wounds. Xizner had knocked him down badly. Kenobi nodded to Jinn when he saw a silhouette in the doorway. Both of them felt no danger. The figure outlined small hips, long hair and a black blouse and dark pants. Aiden. She stepped forward, confronting the two. The Jedi woman didn't know what to say. Her face was solemn and almost expressionless.
Suddenly, Aiden stood tall and managed to say, "Did you find the book?" The question was directed towards Master Jinn.
He nodded no. Kenobi and Jinn stared at Aiden in dismay. Finally, she cracked a smile and said, "I did it. Xizner's gone." she paused and breathed, "Let's go home."
By the time they arrived at the village, Denai was crying frantically on Jaya's shoulder. Aiden feared the worst. Was Tamus dead? Jaya motioned that Aiden and the Jedi knights had returned. Denai faced her sister and hugged her tightly. Was Tamus really dead?
Denai smiled and screamed, "He's alive. He's alive!"
Kenobi and Jinn smiled, as they watched Aiden hug her sister. At that moment, Tamus emerged from the hut. Aiden let Denai go and ran to hug the old man. Denai took Aiden's hand and grasped it tightly.
Jaya stood back among Jinn and Kenobi. She was almost a shadow herself. The witch knew Tamus' secret, regarding Xizner. He was his apprentice, Padawan. Somehow, Xizner was turned to the dark side and eventually, Tamus killed him. His return was not only to fight Aiden, but also take revenge on his former master. That was something Jaya could never tell Aiden or Denai.
Qui-Gon leaned to Jaya and asked, "What happened? When we left, Denai had no idea what to do?"
"I performed a telepathic link with Tamus to discover the cause of his illness. I wasn't even close." Jaya said, realizing it didn't affect Tamus at all.
"Maybe you didn't have to do anything after all except wait." Kenobi said.
Jaya looked at Aiden, Tamus and Denai then gazed at Qui-Gon and Kenobi. She smiled at them and left.
~~
Raj opened his eyes, as he jerked back to reality. Xizner, the Jedi Assassin, he had sent, failed. Aiden Sule and her village were unharmed. Most of all, the old man didn't die. The old man's death would have ultimately returned Aiden back to the Dark side. Jaya, Wedo's sister didn't help either.
The Sith Master rubbed his rough face, then looked down to a brown book. It was covered in dust. He blew off the dust, felt the cover and examined its bonding. The Dark lord held in his hands, the most powerful weapon in the universe, a weapon that could eliminate the protectors of the light. Jedi. Raj smiled and laughed harshly, a laughter that echoed into the day.
~~
Aiden leaned against the village well, as Jinn and Kenobi sat beside her. She let her black hair down and dressed more casually in a tunic type dress. It was bright, unlike most of the clothes she'd worn and comfortable. For the past few weeks, Aiden had a solemn heart and dark appearance to a woman whose just beginning to live. Going and returning from Coruscant had changed her.
The Jedi turned to face them.
"You did a good job, Aiden." Jinn said.
She nodded her head in agreement and added, "There's still something I have to do."
Kenobi stared into her eyes in wonder, though she didn't seem to notice. "What is it? Can we come with you?" he asked.
"No, you can't." she said, referring to both of them, "Where I'm going I need to be alone." Aiden stood up and left.
Kenobi and Jinn stood up to see her off, when Denai and Tamus met them. Denai was unaware of what had happened, but Tamus knew. He smiled at the idea.
"Where's Aiden going?" Jinn curiously asked.
Tamus didn't reply, except pat Jinn's shoulder and smiled. Denai was the first to break the silence. "I think I'm going to be a doctor."
They all looked at the young girl, confused. Kenobi and Jinn knew it wasn't Denai or Jaya who cured Tamus. "I'll practice Jedi medical history. It's interesting. Besides, at least I can use some power to help people around here. I'd be the first medical doctor not to use instruments." Denai explained.
Kenobi lightly laughed, "I think you'd be perfect for the job."
Aiden Sule walked to Crystal Pond, the burial ground of her parents. She hadn't been there in years, since they died. It was miracle Aiden even remembered the way. The Jedi stopped when she reached the site. Aiden closed her eyes and pictured her younger self-playing among those trees, as her father chased after. Ceila Sule, Aiden's mother, lay on a blanket wearing a soft dress. Ceila watched her husband and daughter play and then it went blank. She could still feel the echo of laughter.
The Jedi knelt before two stones, shaded by a tree. It was about the same spot, her mother was sitting in her vision. She smiled at that thought. Two flowers were laid on each stone, with the names engraved: Ceila Sule and Barik Sule. Aiden reached out for her mother's stone and held a tight on it.
"It's me mother, Aiden. You're eldest. I know I've caused you grief turning to the dark side. Anger for not being with you when father died." Aiden paused. A tear streamed down her cheek.
"You told me once, I should never give into anger, hatred and fear. You can't live a life without making some mistakes, mistakes that you create who you are."
"Unless you've been watching, I saved the village from Xizner and Denai helped cure grand father. But I still felt something was missing. That's why I came here. I promised you a long time ago to become a magnificent Jedi. I guess now I'm well on my way. But I need to know it's the right decision."
A bright light manifested behind Aiden. She felt the warmth of the light and slowly turned around and gasped. The spirit of her mother, Ceila Sule was standing before her. Ceila was just as beautiful, as she remembered.
"Mother!" she cried.
Ceila held up a finger. Aiden, I am very proud of you. You were right. You can't live a life without making some mistakes, mistakes create whom you are. You, yourself, believed for a while, you didn't deserve to wear the Jedi cloak. Mainly because you weren't there for your father and I. But the trials you've been through, proves you are ready.
She lightly walked to a stone and sat down. Even after you had turned to the Dark side, I was still proud to be your mother. I was proud, because I believed you still had good in your heart. I was right.
~~
Kenobi stared at Aiden's hut. He was anxious to know the outcome of their venture. It wouldn't go over well with the council. "What would happen when we return to Coruscant?" Kenobi asked. More importantly, what would happen to Aiden. Would she be assigned to another Jedi Master because of her disobedience?
"I'm not quite sure. The council didn't want Aiden or us to interfere but we did. It's hard to say what will happen." Jinn analyzed.
Aiden entered the hut and looked about the barren room. She grabbed a trunk at the foot of the bed. The Jedi felt the leather cover and flipped the lock up, opening it. A small fabric covered the material underneath. Aiden removed the fabric and held out a large brown cloak and peach undershirt. She stared at the garment in awe.
"But everything will be okay, right?" Denai cried.
Kenobi looked at the young girl. He was about to say something when Aiden suddenly arrived. She cleared her throat to draw their attention. They were all shocked. Aiden a dawned with a traditional Jedi robe with her sabre clipped to a black belt. Finally, after all these years, Aiden could wear the robe her mother felt she deserved. Now, Aiden was truly a Jedi. Three years of atonement had led her up to this moment. A tear rolled down Denai's cheek.
"Mom, would be very proud." Denai cried. "She always wanted you to wear that."
Aiden smiled.
~~
Obi-Wan argued with his master. The young Jedi wanted to pilot the craft back to Coruscant. Jinn wouldn't let him because of his condition. Aiden stepped between the two and said, "I'll pilot. You two sit down and be quiet. No argument." she firmly said.
Kenobi looked at his Master to say something, but he wouldn't dare talk against Aiden. Kenobi gave him a look and sat down beside her. He wasn't even aware Aiden knew how to pilot a craft. Amazingly, Aiden knew exactly how to man the shuttle. She moved with such ease.
"Why are you doing this?" Kenobi asked.
"Well, I don't need two chaperons following me around everywhere. It would get on my nerves." Aiden admitted.
He laughed, agreeing with her. It would grow to be an annoyance. Obi-Wan leaned back in his chair as the shuttle disembarked from the ground. Once it was at a suitable level, flying the ship into Hyperspace.
"It was my mother." she gently said, suddenly shocking them. They were bewildered by her sudden conversation. "My mother, she's the one I made the promise too."
"I did reach her, but it was only moments before she died. She made me promise to carry on the family legacy. That's why I was reluctant to leave at first. My vow also required that I stay and protect the village."
"Aiden, anyone would have done the same. I have a feeling, you are well on your way to becoming a full Jedi. One day, when the time is right, you will have reached that goal." Jinn replied.
Present:
Aiden sat relaxing in her quarters, massaging her temples. Working as the Academy's head master wasn't as easy as she thought it would be. The Jedi woman wondered how Skywalker was able to keep a grip on reality without losing his mind. It was a challenge. She stopped massaging her temples and looked over to the bed and saw her lightsaber, lying on the covers.
Loose tools were scattered on small cloth, over the covers. When Aiden fought Raj, she lost her own light sabre, so it became her duty to construct a new one. She got up from the nightstand, walking to the bed. Aiden picked up the new light sabre and examined it carefully. The woman closed her eyes as she remembered her grandfather handing her the old sabre that used to belong to her mother. Now, Aiden would have a light sabre of her own, instead of a tool passed down from her family.
You did a good job, putting that thing together. a voice called.
Aiden looked up, as if expecting the image of Kenobi to appear and it did. Ben Kenobi walked through Aiden's wall. She smiled and nodded her head. "Have you come to give me more tips?" she asked.
No. Aiden, I realize now, you must choose your own path. You've been to the Dark side and survived, but you still have to overcome your demons. Ben said.
"Why are you giving me advice? I thought you only do that for Skywalker." Aiden wondered.
Aiden, I've watched you for a very long time. You may not remember, but I was the envoy from the republic that helped your village and grandfather. Ben admitted.
"You're right. I don't remember because it's all in the past." Aiden retorted, adding, "I have some work to do. Finish my light sabre."
Ben smiled and vanished. You must choose your own path, Aiden. I hope you are ready to face your demons. His voice echoed.
~~
Aiden drifted out of unconscious sleep. She leaned over the dashboard of the shuttle. Coruscant hung lightly in space. Aiden fell back on her chair. The Jedi woman looked to her side. Kenobi had taken the pilot seat. He maneuvering the shuttle beautifully and looked to the woman.
"Your awake just in time." Kenobi said.
She felt her head. "How long have I been sleeping?"
"Eight and half hours. I guess that duel with Xizner tired you out. I would have woken you up, but I figured you needed the sleep." Kenobi replied.
She smiled back at him. At that moment, Qui-Gon popped out of the cockpit and sat down between the two.
"Home sweet home." Obi-Wan said.
The shuttle COM system beeped. Kenobi and Jinn knew what that meant. The council probably wanted to meet with them the minute they hit the ground. Obi-Wan pushed the COM system on. "This is Deck Officer Onaka. State your identification." he said.
As Obi-Wan leaned forward to answer, Aiden stopped him. "Let me handle this." Aiden pressed the com.
"Deck Officer Onaka, this is Aiden Sule. I'm here from a long trip to my home planet, Ceruse. I was home sick. Master Jinn and Apprentice Kenobi were kind enough to accompany me." A lie.
"Very well. You may proceed to landing platform 13C, deck 5." Onaka said.
She turned the volume down and stared at the two. "That's near the Jedi Temple."
"They must want to see us immediately, in reply to our trip." Jinn analyzed.
Aiden turned back to the COM and turned up the volume. "Thank you, Captain," then switched the COM off.
Onaka watched the shuttle land carefully on platform 13C, Deck 5. The Jedi Council asked that the shuttle carrying Aiden Sule, Master Jinn and Apprentice Kenobi landed close to the temple. They obviously wanted to see them right away after their arrival. Aiden and Kenobi disembarked from the ship first followed by Jinn. Aiden confronted the Deck officer.
"Why does the shuttle have be parked closely to the temple?" Aiden asked. She already knew the answer, but would rather hear it from the officer.
"The Council wishes to you right away after landing. They wished that you land near so they wouldn't have to wait." Onaka said.
Aiden glared at the officer, then turned to Kenobi and Jinn. They passed Onaka and walked off the platform. A patrol car was waiting for them to carry them to the temple.
~~
Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and Aiden waited patiently outside the Council room. It seemed unbelievable after they were sent to see the council, right away, they still had to wait. Adi Gallia came from the hall, surprised to see them. She had arrived about fifteen minutes ago and had managed to see Master Jinn, Kenobi and her goddaughter. Adi walked further to meet them.
"Aiden Sule." she said, approaching them.
Jinn and Kenobi scrambled to their feet to greet the Master. Aiden only leaned forward off the wall.
"God mother Gallia." Aiden replied, otherwise shocked to see her.
Aiden hadn't remembered the last time she saw Adi. It was some years ago, when her parents were alive. Kenobi and Jinn watched. "Welcome to Coruscant my darling." Adi said.
To Aiden, it sounded like she hadn't met her before this moment. But that couldn't be since Adi was her godmother and obviously knew her mother. Adi looked to the shut Council doors, then at Aiden. "Your waiting for the council?" she replied.
Aiden nodded yes. Qui-Gon stepped forward. "We went back to Ceruse to stop an enemy, Lord Xizner." Jinn added.
"The council didn't want us to get involved, but Aiden dragged us along anyway." Kenobi replied.
Adi looked lovingly at her goddaughter. She took her hand and literally pulled her to meet the council. Kenobi and Jinn followed.
Mace Windu and Master Yoda conferred quietly with other about the impressing situation. They were shocked when Adi Gallia dragged Aiden to meet them. Adi stood beside Jinn, while Aiden confronted the Jedi Master.
"You went back to Ceruse. Aiden..." Windu began.
"Wait. Before you say my punishment, there's something I have to say. Before I came here, I wasn't exactly proud to be a Jedi. But over the last couple of days, I learned what it was meant to be a Jedi. I accept whatever punishment you see fit. Hear me out. I have decided to relinquish my title, as Keeper of Peace." she paused.
The Jedi Master's were disappointed to hear what she just said, but Adi knew there was more.
"And dove every Jedi in the galaxy that title. I'm not the only one who deserves that title. Other Jedi, who are just as courageous, deserve it. I don't just mean Jedi Masters; I mean to also include Apprentices and padawan's. They deserve it. I want be a normal Jedi Knight, with no special recommendations or requirement. That's all I have to say."
Adi looked at the council. It was her turn to speak. "Aiden did something I always knew she'd do, as did her mother, father and grand father. It probably won't help, but I hope it will reduce her sentence."
Mace Windu leaned back and gazed at Yoda. "Aiden, you went against our orders, as did Master Jinn and Apprentice Kenobi but your statement is accepted. We knew you'd go back and defend your people. We also knew you had the power to defeat Xizner and his assassin. There will be no punishment. Aiden Sule, you truly are as intelligent as your mother, carrying the wisdom of your grandfather." Windu said.
"And the stubbornness of your father." Yoda added. "Master Jinn, I believe you will have a glorious time training your new apprentice in the Jedi ways and lore of her heritage."
Jinn, Kenobi and Aiden smiled, and then exited the room as Adi took her seat next to Yaddle and smiled.
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