Star Wars:
Adventures of Aiden Sule
Young Jedi Knights
"Troubled Times"
By Obi's Girl
Synopsis: It has been only weeks since Qui-Gon has died. Obi-Wan Kenobi is summoned by the Council to serve as Ambassador to a Peace Summit, taking Adi Gallia's place, to Dylithia Prime. Accompanied by Aiden Sule, the Jedi must put aside their feelings of regret, concerning their former Master and referee the talks. However, an assassin attempt on the Ambassador of Dylithia, lead Obi-Wan and Aiden to believe the Dylithian people don't want the bloody Dylithia Civil war to end.
Prologue:
Naboo
Aiden Sule stared down at the street below. From what she heard, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi were called to mediate Trade Federation negotiations, only the Federation would not have it. It was later found out after escaping the Federation, that a Sith Lord was dispatched to track the Jedi. One of them survived. The other did not. The Jedi that did survive the attack was Kenobi and sadly the one that did not, was Master Qui-Gon Jinn. The Jedi frowned, turning away from window.
She stared at the door. Aiden wasn't summoned; she simply knew to come Naboo because of her premonition. In her vision, she saw the Sith Lord battling Jinn on what looked like a desert planet. That was her first vision. The one that came later was more detailed than the first. Qui-Gon Jinn, Kenobi and a small blonde little boy were standing before the Jedi Council. Qui-Gon opted to take the boy as his Padawan, making Kenobi feel jealous.
Staring down at the streets below, the Jedi realized she didn't see Qui-Gon anywhere near Kenobi. There was a boy, a young queen, some senators and members of the Jedi Council, but no Qui-Gon Jinn. A couple ideas of what happened to Jinn passed through Aiden's mind, some of which she didn't want to think about.
As she started for the door, a handmaiden met the woman. She was shorter than Aiden and from her appearance, she looked very young. She bowed before the Jedi. "What is it I can do for you?"
Aiden glanced again at the window. "Who's the boy?" she asked.
"The boy?"
"The boy with blonde hair, standing next to Kenobi." Aiden added, gesturing her head towards the window.
The handmaiden walked over to the window, scanning the platform below for the boy the Jedi described. She smiled once she realized who the boy was. The girl turned back to the Jedi. "That is Anakin Skywalker, now Padawan of Obi-Wan Kenobi. Because of him, the viceroy's control over the droid army was diminished. He's a very good pilot." She paused. "Is there anything else you need? Do you need to talk to one of the Council members?"
Aiden nodded no. "Thank you. You are dismissed." She paused and head out. At all costs, she needed to get to Coruscant before Kenobi. There was much work to be done.
**
Hours after the celebration in the square was finished, gradually, some of the Jedi Council members left. As Obi-Wan walked down from the stage, he met Queen Amidala. He smiled at her. It had been a long, tiresome week. "Obi-Wan, thank you for coming to the celebration. I know it has been a less than happy occasion, because of Qui-Gon's death." She said.
"I'll manage." He replied, glancing at Anakin. The boy was talking with Jar Jar, Threepio, and R2. "It was honor to have served you, your highness. I hope we see you again, sometime." Obi-Wan bowed before the Queen, then walked towards Anakin.
"Master, sir, are we heading for home now?" Anakin asked, straightening up.
"In awhile." Obi-Wan replied. "I'm going to take a walk." He managed a smile, then walked on across the square. Yoda and Mace Windu was last the Jedi Masters on the planet. The others had already left for Coruscant. He smiled at the two. "This is going to take time." Obi-Wan said.
"Time, it will. Qui-Gon was a great fighter and an excellent teacher. If we're lucky, maybe there is a little bit of him in you to train Anakin." Mace added.
He nodded no. "Luck, doesn't have anything do with it. I only wish that..." Obi-Wan trailed off, remembering another Padawan he respected. "I take it, you haven't heard anything from Aiden?"
Yoda nodded no. "A great Jedi she is. Close to Qui-Gon, she was. Hard on her, it will be." He paused. "When the time comes, comfort her, you will."
"We will be heading back to Coruscant. We'll see you there?" Mace added.
As Obi-Wan nodded yes, the two Jedi Masters walked towards a craft in the center of the square
**
Days later, Aiden Sule arrived over Coruscant. It had been several months since she first visited the planet. The Jedi maneuvered the craft into the planet's atmosphere. For the most part, the planet was an entire city. She landed on a small dock. Once Aiden stepped out of the shuttle, she requested that she see the Jedi Council immediately.
Mace Windu was alarmed when he heard Aiden Sule, former apprentice of Qui-Gon Jinn had arrived. He knew she must have heard of what happened to Qui-Gon and the only reason she requested to see the Council was for confirmation that Jinn was really dead.
It was the also the first time, the Council members saw Aiden wearing a traditional Jedi garb. She stood tall, head high, determined to know the truth. In truth, Jinn's superiority and authority illuminated through the woman, making it impossible to dismiss his influence.
"Aiden, we weren't expecting you back so soon." Mundi said.
"Neither did I." She paused. "You know why I'm here. I need to know what happened to Master Qui-Gon."
It would have been easier to simply say he was "one with the Force," but it would have dissuaded Aiden from staying. The Council didn't need to reply. She already knew, judging from her expression. "I see." Aiden replied. "I guess I'll be on my way. I have to return to Ceruse."
"Aiden Sule, how is your family? Tamus and Denai?" Gallia asked.
"They're fine." She paused. "I should really get going."
As the Jedi turned to leave, Yoda called her back. "Sad you are, Qui-Gon is dead. Grieve you must, but not alone, you shall."
"What do you expect me to do?" she retorted, turning back to them. Anger and sorrow filled her voice.
"We have a mission planned for Master Kenobi and his new apprentice when they return. Master Gallia was supposed to accompany them, but we could say she fell rather ill and could not go. You could take her place." Windu said.
"I don't think so. Kenobi has more hormones than a male Drall. When I lived with them, he hit on every other minute. I don't even like him." she paused. "I'm not going."
"Aiden, you two need each other more than ever. The two of you have lost a Master, both of you respected. He had time for closure, you didn't." Depa added.
"I'm not going. Coming here was closure enough for me. Seeing Kenobi will only make me angry. I can't stand being around him."
"Then go and May the Force be with you on your journey back to Ceruse." Windu concluded.
"Thanks." She said, heading out.
"Know she'll change her mind, do you?" Yoda asked his friend.
"Of course, she will. She's Qui-Gon's Apprentice." Windu replied.
**
Week's later, Obi-Wan Kenobi walked into the familiar Jedi Temple on Coruscant, followed by young Anakin Skywalker. They had recently returned from Naboo. The Jedi spent several days on the planet after the celebration of winning it back from the Trade Federation. He gazed down at his young Padawan. Anakin smiled at him. He had light blonde hair and blue eyes. Over all, he was a very cute little boy. Obi-Wan's former Master, Qui-Gon Jinn believed Skywalker would bring balance to the Force. The Council believed if he were trained, his training would bring great danger.
The minute they entered, a messenger came to greet them and said that the Council needed to see them right away. Obi-Wan hoped they weren't going to lecture him why Anakin should not be trained. Lectures were the last thing he needed. The Jedi followed the messenger into the grand Jedi Chamber. Windu and Yoda looked up once they entered. Master Mace Windu was conferring with Yoda and ceased, once Kenobi entered the room. He could only imagine what they were discussing.
"Master Kenobi, I hope you enjoyed your short break on Naboo." Gallia said.
Kenobi smiled at her and frowned quickly, once he sensed what they were going to tell him was bad news. "There's a Peace Summit on Dylithia. Master Gallia was scheduled to go. However, there's a problem. It seems she's become rather sick. She opted that you and your young Apprentice go in her place, accompanied by a representative she's already chosen." Windu replied. He looked to the Jedi woman. She seemed rather week and very pale. He wondered whom the representative Gallia asked for. "The representative will meet you on Dock 17B." Windu added.
"May the Force be with you both." Gallia managed to say.
Obi-Wan wished to he could add some words, but they had already dismissed him.
**
The Jedi Master and Anakin walked to Dock 17B, to meet Gallia's representative. He couldn't believe he had to leave Coruscant so soon. Kenobi thought he'd have more time to relax and train Skywalker.
A woman with black hair, wearing a traditional Jedi robe, was standing beside a small supply craft. She turned to greet the two Jedi. It was Aiden Sule. Kenobi smiled and hugged the woman, thankful to see her. Aiden pushed him away, disgusted by a sudden hug she wasn't prepared for.
Kenobi gazed down at Anakin, who was lost completely on whom the woman was. Aiden smiled at the small boy. "Anakin Skywalker, this is Aiden Sule. We used to work together as Apprentices, under Master Jinn." Obi-Wan enthusiastically explained as he was nearly out of breath.
Aiden knelt to face the boy on his eye level. "It's nice to meet you, Aiden Sule. It's funny, I thought I was the Qui-Gon's first, second apprentice." Anakin said.
She laughed. "It wasn't my idea. My grandfather pushed for me to be trained properly. He sent me here to train in the temple. I left only after ten and a half 1/2months." Aiden stood up, looking at Kenobi. Her face was solemn. "I'm sorry about Qui-Gon. I would have come earlier, but I didn't have a vision that such a tragedy would occur." Aiden apologized.
**
Aiden Sule was piloting the craft towards Dylithia, when Kenobi sat beside her. Anakin was in the back, settled into a corner for rest. There was uneasiness between them, because she had been gone so long. He wished she'd come back someday and they'd have a normal relationship, of Apprentice and new Apprentice. That wasn't going to happen. Obi-Wan wanted her to be by his side at Qui-Gon's funeral, but she wasn't.
"I'm sorry I couldn't come to the funeral." She said, breaking the silence. "Qui-Gon was an excellent teacher."
Kenobi remained quiet a minute. "Why didn't you?"
"I was busy." Aiden retorted.
"Too busy to come by for a visit? It would've at least helped, if you had to say something. I hated that you left. You could've stayed and continue to learn what you could." Obi-Wan cried.
She turned to face the new Jedi Master. "In case you've forgotten, my home world was threatened by a deadly disease. If I hadn't gone, half the people inhabiting Kalika would be dead, including Denai and Tamus." Aiden paused, remembering Qui-Gon. "He was a wonderful teacher, Obi-Wan. I respected him as much as I respected Tamus. If you think because I'm not crying on the outside that I'm not hurt, doesn't mean I'm not crying on the inside."
The COM beeped. Aiden quickly saw to it. As they arrived over Dylithia Prime, Aiden carefully maneuvered the craft into the planet's atmosphere. Once they cleared the atmosphere, the flight controller signaled them to land on dock 13A, close to the summit.
**
Kenobi and Aiden head inside the Conference Center as Anakin came running down the ramp, carrying a small backpack, joined his Master. He could tell from his expression that his Master wasn't happy. They walked inside the Conference Center, passing the main hall and entered the Congress. Aiden was already talking with some emissaries, which were filling her in on what was to be expected. As Kenobi stared at the woman, his frown quickly turned into a smile. True, Aiden could be stubborn and hard to deal with sometimes, but her appearance always lit up Kenobi's face. Obi-Wan walked to Aiden. She turned to him and glanced back at the emissaries. The Jedi finally introduced Kenobi and Skywalker to them.
One of the emissaries, the Dylithian Ambassador, a slender man in his early thirties with black hair introduced himself to the Jedi. "I am Jorus Kialyn, the Dylithian Ambassador. Welcome Jedi, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Aiden Sule. I didn't know Jedi were invited. It was my impression no one from the Republic would come. Excuse me, I have to meet some more important people." He said, scouting off.
Obi-Wan frowned and glanced at Aiden. She knew he was rude and did not have the right to put Kenobi down. Aiden also felt jealous, because she was the only one who had that privilege. The envoys also disappeared to attend to the other representatives. "Now I remember why I hate politics. All the politicians have no manners and are arrogant." Aiden retorted.
He smiled and turned to her. She quickly walked off to sit down. Anakin, Kenobi's Apprentice was already seated. The boy had saved two other seats for the Jedi.
Jorus Kialyn stood up at the podium, ready to perform the beginning ceremony of the talks. He slammed a small ball like gavel on the podium to grab everyone's attention. "Welcome honored guests to the Dylithian Peace Summit. I am Jorus Kialyn, the Dylithian Ambassador. In the past, these negotiations never worked. Some fanaticals wanted the war to continue. Others believed it should be stopped and so, the planet was divided. Today, we will finally put an end to the debate."
Aiden glanced at Kenobi, and then drew her attention back to Kialyn. She scanned the room. In the past, there were fanaticals that wanted the war to continue and sometimes threatened the talks with acts of terrorism. No one was posted above them, aiming at Kialyn, but she was sure someone was aiming to kill him. Kenobi saw Aiden was disturbed, but focused on the speech. Finally, she drew her attention back to the speech.
"I only hope, that these talks will continue with fairness on everyone's part. Dylithia has been at war for several years. It is time to finally bring peace back home." He concluded.
As Kialyn turned to pick up some papers, a fire was shot directly at the ambassador. Aiden pushed the man down, as Obi-Wan made everyone lay on the floor, including Anakin. She was right to suspect there would be an attack. The Jedi scanned the room for anything that seemed out of place or different. There was no one. Kenobi left Anakin's side and joined the Jedi woman.
After the hall was cleared, Kenobi and Aiden went into a small room to talk. She sensed danger to Kialyn, the minute he revealed that the talks were disrupted in the past. He glared angrily at the woman. "You knew that shot was coming, didn't you?' he asked.
She nodded yes. "Obi-Wan, we were sent here to make sure there were no terrorist attempts." Aiden explained.
The stress of losing his Master and dealing with a Jedi woman, who didn't even love him the way he loved her, was getting to him. He gazed to Aiden. "What do we do? Postpone the talks? Aiden, these talks were supposed to go on as planned. If we stop them, people will believe that the war will never end." Obi-Wan said.
"We won't. The talks will go on as planned. We'll be looking for whoever tried to assassinate Ambassador Kialyn. There are people at these talks that aren't showing us their true face and are masking their feelings. We just have to find out whose behind it."
The Jedi, Obi-Wan and Aiden exited the small room, leading back to the chambers, to confront Kialyn. He was outraged by the attempt on his life, but thankful he wasn't dead. "Ambassador, we're not going to postpone the talks. They will go as planned." Kenobi said.
"What about the assassins? There was man or woman, a minute ago that almost killed me." He roared.
"We will look into it. Don't worry ambassador. Your precious talks won't be disrupted again." Aiden retorted, walking off.
Kenobi ran after the woman, as Anakin caught up with his Master. "Aiden, your attitude is totally uncalled for." Kenobi said.
She stopped and gazed at him. "What did you want me to do? Act happy. He's a rude, arrogant politician that represents everything that is evil about the Dylithian people. We have a search to do and I don't intend to debate my attitude when I could be using precious time to get started."
**
Aiden Sule and Obi-Wan Kenobi stood in front of a video transmitter, to notify the Council of the attempt on Kialyn's life. Windu answered. "Master Kenobi, Aiden Sule, what news do you have?" he asked.
Before Kenobi could speak, Aiden replied to the Masters' question. "There has been an attempt on Ambassador Kialyn, he's Dylithia's ambassador. Kenobi and I are going to investigate who the attacker was. In the meantime, the talks will continue as scheduled."
"How is Master Gallia's health fairing?" Kenobi asked.
Aiden wasn't surprised to hear about her godmother's health. She had heard news of her condition through connections. "I'm afraid, she's not doing well. Doctors here are trying to pin point the cause, but nothing seems to be coming up. We'll keep you both posted on how she's doing, you, especially Aiden. May the Force be with you." Windu said, terminating the transmission.
By Kialyn's orders, the talks were postponed for another week, until it seemed safe to continue. Aiden and Kenobi advised the talks to continue, but the Ambassador was stubborn and scared to try. In the meantime, the Jedi were settled into a small apartment, close to the summit, for headquarters and leisure. Anakin was more than happy to have some more rest time during the stay. Aiden sat on the couch, checking her miscellaneous weapons. Besides her purple-violet lightsaber, she had a rifle and small gun. Most Jedi carried only a lightsaber, but the women never trusted to have only one weapon at her side. Kenobi sat down opposite of her. "You never pack light, do you?" he asked, referring to the gun and rifle.
"They're for emergencies only. This is an emergency." She said and added, "It's a good thing Anakin came along. We're going to need someone to hack into the computer systems."
"Anakin hack into the computer systems? I don't think so." Kenobi retorted.
She put down the small gun and glared at him. "The boy is good with machinery and fixing things, is he not?"
He nodded yes. "He'll do. We need to look through the invite list of everyone that's attending the talks. We can evaluate from reviewing the list, who our potential suspects will be." Aiden explained.
Kenobi stood up pacing about. "Now I remember, why we never got along. You're pushy and commanding. That's why Qui-Gon always admired you so much."
"I thought he admired me because my grandfather was a legend." Aiden retorted, as she rose and walked to the computer system.
He turned to her. "Aiden, we'll find another way to see whose attending and who's not."
"Like what? Ask everybody whose here and not? That will take forever; besides, we don't have that much time. We need answers now." Aiden retorted, then faced the computer. There was a reason behind her bad attitude and it wasn't the peace talks. She was feeling the same guilt and pain of losing Qui-Gon.
"Aiden, I know this can't be easy for you. He was your Master as well." Obi-Wan begun.
The woman gasped and finally let herself cry without embarrassment. She loved Qui-Gon for who he was and she admired him for the strength and skill he possessed. "I could kill myself for not seeing what was going to happen. How could I not? He was more than my Master and yours, he was my friend."
Obi-Wan touched her cheek and hugged the woman, as she wept. "I know. I loved him too. It feels strange to walk through the temple and not see him, watching me train."
"It wasn't fair. I can't stand the fact that he's gone. So many people in my life, people that I love, are dead. My parents and now this! It isn't fair. It isn't." she cried, backing away.
Kenobi stroked her cheek, brushing away the tears. "It isn't, which is why we have to cope. We can't allow our emotions to get in the way of what needs to be done."
He paused and gazed at the screen. The lists of the emissaries' names were posted. Aiden turned to the screen. She wiped her face and began to scroll down the list, as Obi-Wan looked on.
**
The Jedi worked all night, reviewing the list and analyzing each emissary and the reason, he or she was there or weren't there, as planned. They took turns working the computer, while the other relaxed. It was Kenobi's turn. Aiden lie on the couch, as the Jedi dictated the diplomats' profile. "This is ambassador fifty-eight. Name: Xanos Piomara, from the planet Corellia." Obi-Wan stated.
"Corellia. That isn't a political scene. It's basically a smuggling ground." Aiden commented, sitting up. "Why would the Corellian's be interested in a political debate?" She came over and stood beside Obi-Wan, placing her hand on his shoulder.
"I don't know. Xanos conned his way into the high levels of politics. He was always an excellent speaker and quick to prove he was always right, no matter the cost. What should we label him?"
"Possible candidate. What else do you have?" she asked.
Obi-Wan scrolled down Xanos' profile. "It seems he got in trouble with Corellian law when he was eighteen. He was prosecuted for murder. But, it could never be proven. It turned out there were no witnesses around that saw the crime. Close friends claimed he had to reason for such an act. At that time, his father was highly respected politician."
Aiden smiled. "It wouldn't look good if he was pinned for murder. Daddy needs a clean slate son. Next one."
As Obi-Wan began to scroll down, the list disappeared. All the envoys' names and profiles were erased from the screen. He stared at Aiden. She knew something was wrong. Someone didn't want them to see the rest of the lists. After the list disappeared, Aiden turned off the computer and head to bed. Obi-Wan stared back at the woman shocked she'd give up so quickly. She removed the Jedi robe, to reveal her usual black shirt and pants.
"You're giving up?" he asked.
She stopped and gazed at Kenobi. "I'm going to bed. It's late and I need sleep. So do you. We'll finish the search in the morning." Aiden head towards the bedroom, as Kenobi took the couch.
He gazed to his young apprentice. Anakin was sleeping soundly. Kenobi put another blanket on the boy and began to undress. Obi-Wan laid himself down on the couch, staring at the ceiling.
**
Aiden couldn't sleep. It wasn't the talks that were bothering the Jedi; it was Qui-Gon's death. She really did love and admire Qui-Gon for who he was. He was the first Master she respected more than herself. It hurt even more that she wasn't able to say good-bye, unlike Kenobi who had the chance. The Jedi rose from the bed and began to massage her temples. For years, Aiden always expected Qui-Gon and Kenobi to visit Ceruse. They never came. She waited for days and week. They never arrived. Aiden thought they were busy with other assignments, only the days and weeks became months and years. The Jedi became to wonder why they never came and believed it was because she left before she could complete her training. Aiden knew that wasn't the case. If Qui-Gon and Kenobi ever visited, the hello and good bye would be painful, not only on them, but for Aiden as well. She was disturbed and frustrated and because of the peace talks, stress was added. Aiden wished Qui-Gon was alive and with her.
Aiden, a voice called.
The woman peered around the room, thinking Kenobi came in to tell her something. She was alone. The Jedi turned back, to face the spirit of Qui-Gon Jinn. "Master Qui-Gon." She gasped.
The man walked about in great authority, with wisdom in his eyes. Aiden, I'm glad you took this mission with Obi-Wan. You two needed time to talk and work through your feelings.
She smiled. "Talking was one thing I avoided doing the years I served beside him."
Why did you?
"Because I was afraid of being hurt. There is a reason for my harsh impenetrable exterior. As a Dark Jedi, I worked closely with Raj. We weren't romantically involved, but he was interested in me. After I left and my mother died, I had developed this hard exterior to prevent my feelings from being hurt again."
And?
"You broke all the barriers. I allowed myself to care about you. When you died, I was hurt." Aiden said.
So is Obi-Wan. You think he wasn't hurt either by my death? We worked side by side for years. You've only known me for ten and a half months. He paused. Aiden, you might not realize this now, but Obi-Wan is a big part of your life. I knew he'd watch after you after I died and probably, even when he's dead. Use this time to form an understanding relationship. During the years, you and I had a relationship that was nothing compared to how you treated him.
Aiden looked down. "I did treat him pretty badly. Putting him down and teasing him. I never meant to make him jealous of our relationship."
You might not have anyone else in your life that cares that much about you, the way he does. He loves you and has always loved you. You never returned the gesture because of your harsh barriers. Qui-Gon stood up. Remember, he'll always be there for you when you need him. Right now, you need him more than ever. He paused. May the Force be with you, Aiden Sule and disappeared.
**
Xanos Piomara and Jorus Kialyn, the Dylithian Emissary, sat across from Yttehud Aminobenzoic, the Chief of State. Kialyn called the meeting between the two officials so they could find a way to exterminate the Jedi, Kenobi and Aiden Sule. They were on the invite list, but Kialyn felt the involvement of the Jedi would only mean fast negotiations. Kialyn didn't like the idea and he especially didn't like Jedi.
Kialyn stared to the two. A cruel smile crossed his face. "Personally, I don't like having the Republic but their head into our affairs. Dylithia isn't any of their concern. It's one of the Outer Rim territories." He said, walking around. "I know the assassination this afternoon wasn't unexpected. I hired a sniper to come and target me, so the talks would be postponed. If the Jedi stay here, it will only ruin everything."
Xanos glimpsed at Aminobenzoic. "What do you we propose we do? If we try to dispose of them out in the open, an investigation will only bring in more of these Jedi. We can not afford that." Xanos stated.
"That is why it won't be done in the public eyes. It will be done behind closed doors. I have stationed several guards over the apartment. Many of them are professional hit men and will get the job done. They are to kidnap them, place them in a secluded cell and if they don't cooperate, kill them."
**
After Aiden Sule was visited by Qui-Gon's spirit, the Jedi couldn't return to sleep. She knew what he said was right. The Jedi needed Obi-Wan more than ever, if they were going to get through the crisis of losing Qui-Gon. The Jedi stood up, left and entered the main room, where Kenobi was sleeping on the couch. Aiden retrieved a glass from the washer and filled it with water. As she turned, Aiden noticed that Kenobi's chest was bare and at an angle, looked very handsome. She shook her head and returned to her room.
**
The lead hit man crawled through the ventilation shaft over the apartment, followed by several other team members. The Dylithian Ambassador ordered them, to dispose of the Jedi. The assassin gestured to his other men to slow down and remain quiet. The sniper sat up, positioning his feet over the vent shaft. Two other men on the opposite side were positioned the same way. On a silent count, the men slammed the shaft open, raiding the apartment.
**
Aiden heard the disturbance and leapt from her bed, grabbing her lightsaber on the nightstand. She ran out of the room, to find three hit men in the living room. The Jedi glanced at the couch. Kenobi was gone.
The lead assassin walked towards Aiden, as Kenobi leapt on top of the man. Aiden smiled and punched him. Kenobi dropped to the floor, igniting his saber.
Two against six. They weren't bad odds, considering the strength of two Jedi. Aiden sprung forward to attack the first sniper. To be fair, she disengaged her lightsaber and fought hand-to-hand. Kenobi stepped forward to attack the other three, but they saw how strong the woman was and retreated. The first three assassins were bent out of shape, after Aiden had beaten them and decided to retreat. She gazed at Kenobi.
"That was too easy." She said.
He nodded yes in agreement. As they turned, the Jedi were faced with a second, more powerful retrieval team.
**
Obi-Wan Kenobi sat unconscious as Aiden grabbed a small towel from her belt and drenched it in water to clean the man's wounds. They were positioned in a dark underground cell. She wasn't sure where, but it was deep. The air was stale, dirty and the living conditions weren't sanitary.
Kenobi had taken a serious beating. After second team confronted them, he stupidly tried to runaway. They captured him and beat his ribs. The team dragged Aiden and Kenobi to the cell, blindfolded. They didn't want them to know how to escape. He began to stir. The Jedi felt his head, which was throbbing with pain. Kenobi had a couple of bruises but they weren't serious.
"Welcome back." Aiden retorted. "What you did was probably the dumbest stunt you've ever pulled, Kenobi."
Obi-Wan could tell she was mad. The fact that she called him by his last name proved it. He felt for his lightsaber. It was gone as well as Aiden's. "Where are our lightsabers?" he asked.
"They took it of course."
The Jedi sat up, focusing his eyes on the prison cell. He knew something was missing. "Where's Anakin?"
"As far as I know, he heard what was happening and took off. My guess is he's probably halfway to Coruscant by now. He's a smart boy."
As she cleaned his wounds, Kenobi noticed a small bruise on her cheek, close to her left eye. He reached out and touched it, gently rubbing his fingers on her face. "What happened to you?"
"It's not a big deal. I got it when we were fighting. It's not as bad as the beating you took, though." Aiden replied, standing up.
Aiden began to knock on the rock wall of the cell. Kenobi wasn't sure what she was doing, but he was certain what she was doing was to find a way out. "What are you doing?" he asked.
She turned to him and half-smiled sarcastically. "Looking for a way out." Aiden knocked on another wall. "My parents taught me, if I was ever trapped to look for a hallow wall. The wall would reveal a secret passage for an escape."
He smiled. "Your parents were very wise."
The Jedi paused, felt the curves of the rock and replied, "Yes, they were!"
Kenobi stood up and Aiden walked to Aiden, standing opposite of the woman. He grabbed the rock. The two pulled the rock back to reveal a stone door. She nodded her head and mumbled, "Dumb assassins."
**
Jorus Kialyn stood before the video cam, talking to the lead hit man. He ordered a team to dispose of the Jedi, so that they wouldn't interfere with his plans for Dylithia. Long ago, the Jedi were hated enemies of the planet. It all began when the Jedi started to spread the message of peace and serenity, if those willing enough, wished to train. The proclamation brought many men and women to abandon their homes and work to train in the ways of the Jedi. So many people left that there was nearly no one to work and provide and aside from that, the government began to grow bankrupt and weak. Even the Prime Minister of the time, felt like resigning because of the powerless democracy.
In truth, it was all about the way politics worked.
The downfall of the old government happened more than fifteen years ago. During that time, Kialyn was a young man thirsting for power and strict obedience in the new government.
Kialyn's face hardened as the gun told him that the Jedi escaped. Escaped. Those mystical renegades escaped? If they were gone, it only meant that the Republic would intervene, leading an investigation. Kialyn couldn't afford that. "Find them and if you have to, eliminate them!" he roared, cutting off the transmission.
**
Aiden Sule and Obi-Wan Kenobi raced down the dark underground tunnels, unaware of where it'd lead. They managed to escape the assassins, but what happened wasn't far from over. Aiden glanced at Kenobi and gestured that they stop. "How are you holding up?" she asked.
"I've had better days." Kenobi joked.
They waited for a couple of minutes, and then continued down the tunnels until the Jedi found a shaft leading to the surface. A ladder was built into the wall, which made it easier to climb. It was perfect. Aiden went up first, pushing the sewer entrance open and shoved it to the side. She poked her head through, scanning the area. It was approximately ten miles from the Congress, due east. The Jedi sprung up, sitting on the edge. Kenobi climbed up next, as she pulled him out. They glanced at each other for a moment, and then walked back to the Congress.
**
Young Anakin Skywalker stood in the lobby of the grand Congress. The boy heard the disturbance in the apartment last night and abruptly left by way of the vent. The assassins came to seize his Master and Aiden Sule. Why? He didn't know. Anakin didn't know a whole lot about politics, except that they always feuded over the smallest problems.
The boy turned, facing the entrance. It was nearly noon. His master and Aiden were yet to return from their capture. He knew, eventually, they'd have a fast escape. Anakin had been waiting in the hall since early morning. The young Jedi managed to make it to the second floor and took the lift back to the main lobby, where he was now waiting.
Finally, Kenobi and Aiden came running through the main doors. He smiled once he saw his young apprentice was all right. Anakin jumped up and hugged his Master and Aiden. "Anakin, you have to return to Coruscant." The Jedi Master instructed. While he and Aiden walked, they discussed the situation and decided it would be safer for the boy to return to the Capital.
"Return? I want to stay here with you guys." Anakin cried.
Aiden knelt down to face the boy. "Annie, it's not safe here. What happened to us today only proves the situation here has gotten more dangerous. You can inform the Council of what's happened, tell them to send reinforcements or something." She paused. "We have to know that you're safe. That's all that matters."
Obi-Wan was impressed. He had never known what a calming influence Aiden had and how much she cared for others safety, besides her own. Anakin gazed to his Master and nodded okay. Suddenly Kenobi dropped to the floor. The pain in his side was getting worse. Aiden held his shoulders, examining the wound. It was deeper than she thought. The Jedi woman helped him to his feet, dragging him upstairs to their room, as Anakin followed.
**
The pain was unbearable. Aiden now knew their captures did a lot more than beat him up. They did something to him. She laid Kenobi's body on the couch and removed his robe to reveal a cut that had grown to a large fatal injury. Anakin was still by her side. "I thought you had left already. Don't you follow your Masters' orders?" she growled.
"He's hurt. I can't leave when he's hurt. Something might happen."
Aiden stopped and faced the boy. "Go home. Your master was right. We're going to need all the help we can get. Leave!" she roared, as Anakin ran out of the room.
Kenobi stirred, focusing his blue eyes on Aiden. She had ripped his shirt to repair the gash in his chest. He peered down. To him, the blood seemed to grow at an overwhelming rate, but it could have very been delirium. Obi-Wan reached to touch Aiden's cheek.
She forced herself to stop and look at the man. His hand was still on her cheek. It felt so gentle and loving. Aiden didn't move, as Kenobi leaned forward to kiss her. It would have succeeded if he hadn't felt the pain in his side began to sear and dropped back down on the couch. "Aiden, how come you loved Qui-Gon more than me?" he cried.
Aiden placed a bandage over the wound, wrapping it around his muscular waist. She couldn't bring herself to face him. "I respect and admire you both. And love you both."
Obi-Wan perked up, staring at the woman's blue-gray eyes. "Love? You love us both?"
She finished the wrap and tucked the last bandage under another. "I loved Qui-Gon, as I loved my father and grandfather. I love you as I love..." she trailed off, feeling the tears surface. There was great pain behind her eyes for a simple reason: The fear of being loved by someone who could hurt her.
Once again, Kenobi stroked her cheek, wiping away the tears. He had trained with Aiden for many months and never once, had she ever broken down in such sorrow over a simple question. He hated seeing sorrow in her eyes and sat up to kiss the tears away. He lowered his head, lips sweeping her face and finally, hesitantly, kissed the woman's lips. Aiden returned the kiss with great force. Her hands crept down his back, feeling his bare skin. Never in a million years, did she ever think that the body of Obi-Wan Kenobi could make her tremble so.
Obi-Wan backed away a minute, holding Aiden in his arms. "Aiden, there's something I need to tell you..." he began.
Aiden kissed him before he could continue. She minded his wounds, trying not to cause him pain. Obi-Wan stroked her cheek, feeling down to her breast and arm. It was a gentle touch. Aiden backed away a moment, flustered. Her hair was out of place. Kenobi kissed her again more gently. She removed her vest, shirt, and threw away her guns. Aiden swept his chest, kissing his temples.
The Jedi nearly melted. He had loved Aiden for so long. Her touch seemed like a dream come true. She gazed up at him. Her eyes suddenly seemed to turn copper and her breasts heaved. Aiden kissed his mouth again, exploring more boundaries than before. Obi-Wan revenged his hands through her black hair, tickling her neck. Kenobi swept his hands down her bare back, kissing her neck and breast. In his mind, it seemed almost like a dream that she'd allow him to touch her in such a way. Obi-Wan's heart hammered, as he smelled the tenderness and felt the beauty of Aiden Sule. He didn't want to stop, but live in the moment. The Jedi Master stared into Aiden's gray brown eyes and felt about the woman's face. Obi-Wan felt around the curves of her slim thighs and stomach, kissing all bare skin he got his hands on. She grabbed his hand, holding it to her breast. Aiden closed her eyes as her mind connected with the Jedi Master. She felt what he felt. The woman turned her body towards the couch, as he kissed and felt her entire back. He hesitated a moment to kiss her naked back.
"Don't stop. Never stop touching me." Aiden whispered.
"I don't want to." He replied.
The taste of her body energized his senses. Aiden turned back to him, still holding his hand. She brought it towards her mouth and began to suck each finger individually. Finally, the Jedi woman made her way towards his right hand and continued the same act. He stared into her eyes, feeling a sense of peace.
Aiden stopped on his middle finger and gazed into the eyes of Obi-Wan Kenobi. She seemed almost puzzled. He smiled. Aiden smiled and pushed herself on him, feeling his embrace and tender kiss. His kiss seemed to last for an eternity. Kenobi backed off, covered his robes around her bare shoulders and decided to carry Aiden into the bedroom. He laid her delicately on the bed and sat down, his back opposite to her. Aiden kissed his flesh, feeling a desire to never stop.
They were together. That was all that mattered. She turned him around. Aiden kissed his belly button and nipples, savoring the taste of his skin. His ears, Aiden thought. She began to suck his ears, feeling the intensity of his every move.
Obi-Wan circled his head along her neck, kissing everything he touched. The ecstasy was overwhelming. He kissed her side and breast, breathing heavily and sweating. Aiden resisted his embrace for a moment, and then let him explore her bosom and body.
The images of Kenobi's naked body making love to her melted into Aiden's mind. Kenobi gazed up into the woman's eyes. Her lips were sore. He rose up and began to kiss her soft lips, renewing them. Obi-Wan didn't want to stop. The feeling of her kiss mixed with his tender lips and embrace were intoxicating. Their bodies moved in coordination.
"More." Aiden cried.
It was his turn to grab her arm and make love to her hand, knuckles and fingers. Kenobi seemed to memorize every curve and joint, as he kissed each finger. She planted her head on his left shoulder, kissing his every whim. Kenobi sucked Aiden's last finger and made his way towards her brow and eyes. Obi-Wan kissed her face intensely, never missing a spot. As his chest pasted over her face, she sucked his left nipple.
The Jedi backed off and picked up her left leg, massaging her ankle. Aiden closed her eyes, feeling totally relaxed. He bent down and sucked her big toe, then rose and crawled over her body. Aiden closed her eyes and moaned. Obi-Wan massaged her thighs waist and breast. The heating passion was extremely past the boiling point of desire. Aiden rolled her eyes, as he kissed her breast. His loose hand touched her neck. The Jedi Master warmed her cold body. She touched his chin, directing his attention to her bare mouth. He smiled, climbed up her body and kissed her dry lips.
This has to stop. I don't love him, but his touch, his body, and his embrace... He's young and yet he knows how to please me. Aiden's thought paused. I'll teach him. Aiden brought his hands to her back. Obi-Wan's hands roamed her naked back, feeling the intensity of her skin. She backed off, stared at him and began to kiss his chest and temples. The Jedi possessed great energy and wasn't about to waste it for feeble kisses. The woman grasped a picture of his upper muscular body in her mind. Obi-Wan was strong. Her mouth examined his skin, while her hands explored his thighs.
Time seemed to stop and in both of their minds, nothing seemed to matter. There was only the moment of being together. Finally, Aiden rested in his arms, exhausted from making love. He was good with his hands. Kenobi probed his hands over her arms and thighs. They weren't rushed, simply slow and coordinated. The moment they shared was perfect serenity, perfect balance.
Finally, Obi-Wan rested his head in her breast. Using his free hand, he tickled her skin. Aiden laughed lightly. It gave him great pleasure to be with her. He thought it would never happen, but it did and was grateful. The Jedi always wondered how he could please her and now he knew how. He was a bit inexperienced, but it didn't matter. What happened seemed natural. The feeling of her skin was natural. Obi-Wan smelled her black hair. He loved the way she smelled. How could he ever stop?
Aiden held his hand and began to kiss his fingers. Kenobi laughed lightly. The woman turned her head slightly to examine his wound. The Jedi gazed up unwillingly at Kenobi. She saw the yearning in his eyes and knew he felt the same yearning. Aiden began to kiss him again; only she accidentally hurt his side and backed off.
"I'm sorry." Aiden cried.
Kenobi looked down at the bandage and glanced back at Aiden. "It's all right."
She smiled and simply laid her head on Kenobi's chest, falling asleep in his arms. Obi-Wan pulled up the blanket and covered Aiden's bare, soft back. He kissed her forehead and laid his head on hers.
**
As Obi-Wan stared at the woman lying beside him, he brushed her left shoulder, and thought Aiden was the most beautiful woman in the galaxy, no universe and there was no one else he could ever make love to. It seemed like only minutes ago they shared a deep passion for one another and never wanted to let go. He craved from her kisses and touch, kisses and touches that spoke volumes of how she felt towards him. Aiden slept facing him, her breast exposed and the blanket only covered the woman from the waist down. As he stroked her shoulder again, he could have sworn she felt his touch, because she shivered.
The Jedi could never love any other woman more than he loved Aiden Sule. He lusted after her since the time they first met. At first, he thought it was simply a crush but it grew far beyond a regular crush. Obi-Wan started fantasizing what it would be like to have sex with Aiden. He stared at her face. He could have sworn she was sent to him to only experience what it was like to love her.
That's what he tried to tell her before, but he was stopped by the taste of her mouth. He wanted to tell Aiden that he loved her. It's how he felt and always felt. But the way she touched his body again and again said in many ways, told Kenobi that she loved him and lived only to please him.
But that didn't seem likely. In the beginning, Aiden never even looked at him the way she did when they made love. Her expression was always stern, almost angry and strong. She never even let him near her unless they dueled. The only Jedi she was really close to and respected was Qui-Gon. He was jealous at first of their friendly relationship, but soon came to think of it as only a Master/Apprentice relationship.
Whenever they touched, Obi-Wan had to think if each embrace they shared was because of love or guilt of losing Qui-Gon. In truth, they would make a better-matched couple. Qui-Gon and Aiden were about the same age, shared the same ideal authority and command and were always pictured as first Master and Apprentice. To Aiden, it probably meant nothing and she probably imagined it was Qui-Gon next to her and not him. It made sense that way.
Aiden felt nothing but guilt over what she allowed to happen. She didn't even love Kenobi and she permitted herself to feel his passion. It wasn't bad, just felt empty. The Jedi didn't love him, she simply needed to be comforted and he was there. If she ever told him why it happened, he'd be hurt, but if she didn't, they'd both hurt. It wasn't right. It wasn't right for her to toy with Obi-Wan's feelings. She'd have to tell him what happened was a mistake that happened purely out of guilt. That's all it was.
**
Anakin faced the Jedi Council. His Master ordered him back to Coruscant because the crisis on Dylithia had become dangerous and feared the boy might get hurt. Over the last couple of days, he learned to obey orders from whomever it came from and to never question them. Skywalker wasn't about to break that code.
"Kenobi and Aiden did the right thing. If you had stayed, you would've been hurt." Windu noted.
"What about them? They can't face those politicians alone." Annie said, referring to Aiden and his Master.
"Aiden can take care of herself. She can be hardheaded sometimes, but true to her feelings and instincts. Indeed, she is her mother's daughter." Master Gallia added.
"Does that mean no reinforcements will be sent?"
Adi nodded no. "Aiden's very resourceful. If Aiden and Kenobi work together, the problem will be solved in no time."
**
Aiden scanned the data banks when Kenobi woke up. She dressed herself in her regular Jedi tunic and robe. The Jedi Master covered himself in his robes and went to stand by Aiden's side. He kissed her neck and sensed something was wrong. "What did you find?" he asked.
"Remember when we first reviewed the list and encountered that man from Corellia?" Aiden said.
"Xanos Piomara?"
"He and Kialyn were in the same race for presidency. Neither won the election, but they shared the same goals. Aiden paused. "They can't live without one another." She switched off the data bank.
"Aiden, what happened?" Kenobi asked. He knew that the passion they shared was probably nothing in her eyes, seeing that they didn't always agree with one another. They were complete opposites.
"There's a connection."
"That's not what I mean. What happened? Was it because of the guilt over Qui-Gon or was it because we needed each other?" Kenobi questioned.
She didn't answer the question. Aiden turned to him and replied, "I think maybe we should pay Ambassador Kialyn a visit."
**
Ambassador Jorus Kialyn sat in his quarters, disturbed by the news of the Jedi's escape. Honestly, he didn't even want the talks to take place, but the political masses urged it. He knew that in politics, to never make the masses angry. Kialyn only hoped the Jedi were smart and departed from the planet, after their escape.
The door opened. Kialyn didn't look up, as he should have, expecting that the lead hit man had come to bring good news. "Have you found the Jedi? If those Jedi know what's good for them, they'll leave before something accidentally happens."
"What do you mean exactly? Before something accidentally happens?" the voice asked.
Kialyn stopped. The voice seemed vaguely familiar. He gazed up. The Jedi Aiden Sule and Obi-Wan Kenobi were standing before him and were not amused. " Your alive! What a pleasure it is that your both okay. I heard about the hit men foray the apartment."
"Did you? And your surprised we survived. Interesting. Why do you think that is?" Obi-Wan said, glancing at Aiden.
The man stared at the both, then bolted for the door. He ran through the hallway with the Jedi at his back. He couldn't be ruined so quickly. Aiden removed a gun from her pants and aimed at the politician. Obi-Wan knocked the pistol out of her hand. She glared at him. Kialyn got away.
"Why in Sith did you do that?" she roared.
"You would have killed him. Jedi aren't about killing people."
"We know he's involved. That's all that matters. He needs to be punished for his crimes." Aiden retorted.
"Is that you or your evil side showing your true colors?" he paused. "Aiden, I agree that Kialyn needs to be punished, but I do not agree that he should be killed."
The Jedi woman shook her head. "Then I don't understand why I even felt an attraction towards you in the first place." She retorted, walking off.
As Aiden entered the main hall, she heard some commotion. Several video COM's were on, announcing a number of disturbances in the streets, protesting the peace talks. The Jedi walked to a small video COM and listened to a reporter's view.
"Two to three days ago, the Dylithian Peace Conference was postponed. It was reported by an official at the conference, that there was an assassination attempt on Dylithia's President, Jorus Kialyn."
Aiden turned to another COM system.
"Riots are still continuing in downtown West City Plaza. Police officials claim that is impossible to control these protesters since they're not all positioned in one area."
The Jedi switched her gaze to another COM.
"Reports have come in that the capital city of Dylithia, Vector, has been put under arrest. Protesters rallied around the capital, demanding that the bloody civil not end and that The Republic is nosy to poke their business into other planetary affairs, sending religious monks, called Jedi Knights, to settle the conflict." The reporter turned to a man.
"We are only fighting for what's right for our people. The War must go on. Citizens of Dylithia know and realize the war that's going on, can not end until the rightful side, our side has won." The citizen protester roared.
"Aiden!" Kenobi cried, coming from the hallway. "Can you believe this?"
Aiden Sule turned back to the COM. "We have to get down there. People could be hurt." Aiden said.
"What about Kialyn?"
The Jedi removed a band from her pocket and pulled back her hair. "We can split up. You go to the riots while I deal with Kialyn."
"Leave you here with him? I don't think so. You'll most likely hunt him down like an animal. I'll stay here." Kenobi defended.
Aiden glared at the Jedi Master. "There's only one way to settle this." She brought out her hand. "Rock, paper, scissors." They shook their fists. Aiden had scissors and Kenobi had paper. "Looks like I get to stay here and you get to settle the riots."
The Jedi woman head towards the lift, as Obi-Wan called after her. "Be careful."
"You too." She replied, disappearing.
Aiden raced down the apartment hallway, searching for Kialyn. She held a makeshift blaster rifle. Her lightsaber was still clipped to her side, opposite another smaller pistol. The Jedi passed five other doors, until she stumbled upon Yttehud Aminobenzoic, Prime Minister. He was talking with Xanos Piomara. Both men were nervous. "What is going on here?" she asked, confronting them.
Xanos stared at the woman, than gazed at Aminobenzoic. "What are you doing here, Jedi?" Xanos questioned.
"Looking for Kialyn. We have some unfinished business. I take it your Xanos Piomara, the Corellian Ambassador."
"You're a smart one, Jedi. Now I understand, why Jorus wanted you and your companion exterminated." Xanos said. He pulled a link on his collar, calling the assassins. "She's here. Jedi Aiden Sule is on this level."
"You really think you can send a team of assassins to kill me?"
"With one weapon? I can guarantee it." Xanos replied.
The hit men gathered around the woman. "That's where you're wrong. I don't have just one weapon." She replied, grabbing her purple-violet lightsaber. "Where's Kialyn?"
Obi-Wan Kenobi stood between the cross sections of downtown West City Plaza. He couldn't believe how many rioters were in the streets. Many angry citizens, most of which were either wounded or protesting, lined up the blocks. The Jedi Master pulled his COM link from his belt. He needed to notify the Council of how bad the situation was.
"This is Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, connecting to Jedi Council, Coruscant."
He waited for a while. Finally, Master Mace Windu and Yoda answered. "Master Kenobi how is the activity down there?" Windu asked.
"Not well Master. Aiden and I split up. She's back at the Congress, tracking Ambassador Kialyn. It seems he's involved in a plot to get rid of us. They're maybe more." Kenobi paused. "I'm dealing with a huge riot in the downtown West City Plaza. The Capital, Vector, is under arrest. I need back up."
"The people on the Capital must not be hurt, understand, yes?" Yoda added.
"Yes I understand. Can you send back up?"
"It might take weeks. How are the police handling the situation?" Windu asked.
Kenobi glanced at a team of policeman. It was a small team. A whole lot of them probably thought the city was crazy and couldn't deal with the terror. "They've had better days."
There was a pause. "Master Gallia has already dispatched some Jedi to aid you. They should be there shortly." Windu concluded. "May the Force be with you, young Kenobi."
"And with you."
The Jedi woman faced off against the two politicians, with the team at her back. She held both her lightsaber and gun. They knew she was dangerous. Piomara nodded that they back off. Aiden didn't lower her defenses. "I'll ask again, where's Kialyn?"
"I'm right here." A voice said.
The Dylithian ambassador was at her back. At that point, nothing seemed right. First of all, there was the other senator next to Piomara. She didn't know who he was. However, it did make perfect sense that Piomara worked with Kialyn, since they're personalities were basically the same.
"Who are you?" she asked.
"Yttehud Aminobenzoic, Prime Minister." He said.
"Mr. Prime Minister, you're working with the wrong people." Aiden snarled. She lowered her com. "Kenobi, I have them."
It didn't take long for a second team of police made it to the Congress to arrest Xanos Piomara, Jorus Kialyn and Yttehud Aminobenzoic. Dealing with politics was a nasty thing. Aiden noted to herself that she'd never get involved in such a dangerous inquisition. Kenobi came down the hall, followed by two other Jedi. They were dispatched by the council to aid them.
"Some report." Kenobi said. "This is Xandros and Shi-lyn. I called the Council and asked to see if they could send some help."
Aiden nodded her head and smiled, feeling exhausted. "Remind me to never get involved in a political mission again. It's so aggravating."
"The riots downtown are controlled. It looks like the police force knew for a while that someone inside the Congress wanted the people to take action. They just needed to know who." Kenobi said.
"I take it other Jedi are downtown, helping them out?"
"It's what we do." Kenobi joked.
Weeks later, Kenobi, Aiden, and the other Jedi Knights arrived on Coruscant. Aiden and Kenobi didn't want to report to the Council. After everything they'd been through, giving a report wasn't on their thrill list. The Master read the report, as Aiden and Kenobi stood quiet. Aiden wanted to leave and return to Ceruse. The memories of the passion they shared seemed like a horrible nightmare. The flashes increased every time she was with Obi-Wan. He glanced at the woman and smiled. She nodded her head.
"The Council is pleased everything is under control. Is the Congress going to vote on a new leader?" Windu said.
"Elections are two months from now. They still need time to recover from damages." Aiden replied.
According to the top medical doctors on Coruscant's science team, Master Gallia had contracted a mild disease that was easily curable by use of antibiotics. The antibiotics worked miracles. She was cured within a week and was able to return to the Council, even able to send to two Jedi Knights to assist Kenobi and Aiden on Dylithia.
"Aiden, are you going to be staying here?" Adi asked. The woman was hopeful that maybe her goddaughter would remain in the temple and continue her training. That prospect didn't seem likely.
"No. After this meeting, I'm heading back to Ceruse. Tamus and Denai need my help to guard the village from Raj and his dark knights."
Kenobi frowned.
"Family always comes first, doesn't it? Have a safe journey, god daughter." Adi replied. "May the Force be with you."
Aiden glanced at Kenobi and departed from the chambers. Anakin was sitting outside. Obi-Wan smiled at his apprentice, then frowned at Aiden. He couldn't believe she was leaving again. Anakin sensed the tension and left to take a walk on the balcony.
"You're not coming back, are you?" Obi-Wan asked.
"No. I won't."
The Jedi Master took her hands in his and kissed them. "What happened on Dylithia, the connection we shared, mean anything to you?"
"I won't tell you it was a mistake. But the timing was off. I can't stay here. If I do, it would be painful. I'd see you everyday in the temple and it would feel strange, for both of us. It's only best that I leave. Besides, you have enough to deal with. You have an apprentice that needs your guidance. The last thing you need is a female Jedi hovering over you." Aiden answered.
"Do you love me?"
She smiled and simply kissed his cheek. "You'll always have a special place in my heart, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, but we have different paths that we must face on our own." She paused, let his hands go. "May the Force be with you." Aiden said and left.
"And also with you." Obi-Wan cried.