Part II
"Someone's approaching," Qui-Gon said quietly to Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan's reaction was completely not what Qui-Gon had expected. In the time it took to blink, Obi-Wan was on his feet, lightsaber in hand. "Who?" he asked, his eyes narrowing.
"Not an enemy yet," Qui-Gon said, a hidden message in his voice. Don't spring to conclusions, Obi-Wan. It is not like a Jedi to do so. "Sit down, Obi-Wan."
With a moments hesitation, Obi-Wan sat, placing his lightsaber back onto his belt. "Your orders?" he asked.
Qui-Gon sighed, glancing at the speeder. The person stepping out had to be a boy - a fairly tall young man roughly 15, Qui-Gon noted. Force blast, the kid looked like Obi-Wan had when he had been younger. Speaking of the Force . . .
Obi-Wan followed his gaze. "Let it go, Qui-Gon," he said.
Amused, Qui-Gon shook his head. "The Force is strong in that boy," he said gently.
"You refer to the prophecy..." Obi-Wan's voice trailed off. "No way," he said. "It's impossible."
Just then, the boy circled around them, his gaze on of bewilderment, but he was suspicious. Not willing to come closer. "Hey who are you," Padmé called.
The boy doubled back, running his hand through his short hair. It resembled a Padawan haircut, but was longer and was spiked with some gel. "My name is Anakin Skywalker," he said, coming cautiously closer.
"I'm Qui-Gon Jinn, this is Obi-Wan, and this is Padmé," Qui-Gon responded. "What are you doing way out here?"
"Chores," Anakin said with a shrug. He shot a sly grin at Padmé. "And what's a girl like you doing out here?"
Padmé suppressed grinned. She was used to fawning young men. In her lifetime, she had been approached by boys and men of all ages. Not that she loved the attention, but she didn't hate it. "A girl like me is resting out here," she said. "Do you have a pillow?"
"I'll go find one," Anakin offered. "The Tusken Raiders are right over that mountain. I bet they have some. I'd fight any number of them for you." He blushed then took in Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan's tattered tunics. "You saw them?"
"We got closer than comfortable," Qui-Gon put in.
"Awesome!" Anakin said, staring at Qui-Gon. "You're a Jedi Knight, aren't you?"
"Why'd you think that?" Obi-Wan interjected quickly.
Anakin shrugged. "This weirdest feeling." He watched as Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan exchanged quick looks. He didn't like the feeling. It was almost as if they were discussing about him. "So, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan right? And, of course, Padmé?"
He grinned at her again, brushing his short spiky hair forward. Flattened down across his head, even Amidala had to admit he looked rather - handsome. She quickly regained her composure, drawing on the "look" she had acquired over the years. To her surprise, Anakin only grinned more, blushing.
Wrong message, Padmé thought. Obi-Wan, help!
Although Padmé was not a Jedi, Obi-Wan knew her enough to decipher her plea. "Anakin, right?" he asked. "We're moisture farmers - mostly. Do you know where Mos Espa is?"
"Sure," Anakin said casually, shifting his gaze reluctantly to Obi-Wan. "Where I'm headed, matters of fact."
Qui-Gon frowned, glancing past Anakin at the boy's speeder. "How far is it from here?"
Anakin frowned, screwing up his face as he ran through the familiar routes. "By speeder it will take the rest of tonight and until dawn tomorrow," he said. "If you're a fast walker, you can make it there in three or four days. If you're slow . . . "
"Can you drive us there?" Padmé asked, noticing Anakin's speeder.
"Ah..." Anakin hesitated, "I can take one person at a time."
"Good enough," Qui-Gon said quickly. He hesitated, his glance flying between Padmé and Obi-Wan. He didn't want to leave Padmé and Obi-Wan out here alone, but neither could he send Padmé off by herself in a strange city. That only left Obi-Wan to go.
The younger man was already one step ahead of him, already moving towards the speeder. When I get into the settlement, I'll try to find a larger landspeeder," he said, "Maybe I can bring both of you instead of just one."
Anakin glanced at Padmé. "You agree with this?" he asked.
Padmé nodded. Anakin swung around, sliding back into the pilot's seat. "So what's it like being a Jedi?" he asked.
"I'm not really a Jedi," Obi-Wan admitted, "I used to be."
Anakin gave him a confused look, but Obi-Wan's own glance showed clearly that he wouldn't answer any more questions.
***
"The Jedi are disturbed, my Master." In the shadows of the Sith Temple, Darth Maul could not see his Master's face, but he could sense the other man's pleasure.
"Very good, Maul," Sidious purred. "But before you can begin to hunt them down, I have the greatest challenge yet for you." Maul automatically sharpened his senses, noting that Sidious was smiling. But there was someone else out there - someone Force-sensitive . . .
Nonsense, Maul reminded himself severely. If he could sense this other thing, then surely his Master could too. "What challenge would that be, Master?"
Suddenly, he was aware that Sidious was talking. "Are you ready, my apprentice?"
"Master?" Maul asked, just as another voice, oily sweet replied, "Yes, Master."
Maul sprang for his lightsaber, the red light flickering on just as another red blade flashed into existence. Sidious laughed. "I have broken an ancient custom, I'm ashamed to say," he said, gloating. "Over the years, I've trained not one, but two apprentices. But now, only one can succeed."
Maul reached out for the Force. He could sense the other man. Cutting his lightsaber, he moved forward without sound. The red blade was suddenly raised and crashed down, as Maul barely parried with his own. The blades crossed as smoke rose in the air.
"Darth Maul," Sidious said, "Meet Xanatos."
***
Maul sneered at the unseen enemy, baring his teeth. He didn't ignite the other blade on his double-bladed lightsaber yet. Better to use that to surprise this enemy later. The man – Lord Xanatos? – charged forward, red blade swinging. Maul stepped into the stroke, parrying and twisting his 'saber around to strike at Xanatos' left.
Xanatos easily parried, surging forward, the Dark Side swirling in angry waves around him. "You don't have a chance, Maul," Xanatos sneered. "I was trained by the best teachers on both sides of the Force."
Hatred roared in Maul. "You are part Jedi then," he rasped. "You will be the first Jedi I kill." He flipped backwards, striking left, right, and thrusting with his deadly blade. The Dark Side surged again, and Maul held out a hand, gathering the immense strength to him.
Xanatos went flying backwards by the sheer power of the Force shove. A moment later he retaliated, with such strength that Maul's 'saber was wrenched from his hand. Then Xanatos stood over him, lightsaber pulsing. "Die, Lord Maul," he laughed.
With a grunt, Maul kicked both of his legs forward, hitting Xanatos in an area no male – Sith or not – likes to be kicked. Xanatos stumbled backwards as Maul seized the Dark Side of the Force again, drawing his lightsaber to him and igniting it in less than a second.
He thrust again, leaping high in the air and coming down hard on Xanatos' chest. "You die, you Jedi scum," he snarled, cracking the hilt of his 'saber against Xanatos' temples. The other man went limp as Maul grinned and ignited the other blade of his 'saber.
***
"Do you know where I can find a landspeeder around here?" Obi-Wan commented as Anakin pulled the tiny craft into the main streets.
"I dunno. Steal one, I guess," Anakin said, half-jokingly.
"Anyplace good to steal them?" Obi-Wan asked seriously. Startled, Anakin nearly missed a turn, narrowly avoiding slamming both of them into a wall.
"Are you serious? Jedi don't - " he sputtered.
"I'm not a Jedi," Obi-Wan reminded coolly. "Stop here for a second." He hopped out, approaching a landspeeder as he did so. Anakin watched, eye's wide as Obi-Wan deftly slid past the simple lock and hopped in.
"Let's go, fast," Obi-Wan ordered, hightailing it out of there.
Too late, Anakin responded, following. But by then, the original owner ran out, pulling out a blaster as he did so. Anxiously, Anakin glanced over his shoulder, beginning defensive maneuvers immediately. Obi-Wan saw the blaster too, reaching one hand for his lightsaber hilt as he drove.
In one fluid motion, Obi-Wan stood on the seat of the landspeeder, whipping an arc with his lightsaber in time to catch two blaster bolts and send them spinning back towards the man. Then he lowered himself back down, jerking the speeder roughly the left, following Anakin as the boy dodged and wove, using the buildings as covers.
At last, Obi-Wan felt his adrenaline levels begin to lower once more as the danger ebbed. "I think we're okay," he told Anakin.
Anakin's eyes strayed towards Obi-Wan's lightsaber hilt. "I thought you weren't a Jedi," he said flatly.
"In extreme cases, I'll resort to Jedi skills," Obi-Wan said, avoiding the subject. "Is there any way we can get back to Qui-Gon and Padmé without going through the way we just came?"
Hesitating, Anakin took a look around, studying the buildings. "Yeah, there's a shortcut."
"Lead the way," Obi-Wan said.
***
Maul raised his lightsaber, savoring the moment. The Dark Side roared in his ears and all he could hear was the pounding of his own heart – and through the Force, he could hear the slow, methodical pounding of the half/Jedi Xanatos's heart as well. It would be so easy to reach out and –
Too easy. Maul drew his arm back further, pinning the other man down. "Die," he sneered, swinging forward.
In a swift motion, Xanatos lurched backwards, his own lightsaber flying through the air. Maul's blade met empty air even as he whirled around to counter Xanatos's thrust. Maul slid under a ferocious parry and jammed his double-bladed end across to where Xanatos's head would have been milliseconds earlier. Quickly, Maul swerved backwards, dodging a deadly blow.
The Force swirled again in dark clusters.
The sharp smell of ozone filled the air as the two Sith Lords brought their 'sabers swiftly together again. The crackling of the two weapons grew more intense as Maul pushed his attack – only to be counted yet again by Xanatos's blocks.
With his freehand, Xanatos' shoved Maul away. "I could kill you right now," he snarled.
"At least I managed to knock you out for awhile," Maul grated back, swinging wildly from the left before twisted his body and slicing cleanly with the other end of the lightsaber.
Xanatos ignored the feint and parried. "Won't – you – just – surrender and admit – I'm better – than you?" He was losing ground rapidly as he took a few more quick steps backward.
Maul ignored him and drove forward, the balance of his leap perfect.
Xanatos stumbled backwards, bringing his lightsaber up to parry once more.
***
"I don't see why he insisted to ride with her," Obi-Wan grumbled, his eyes never leaving the speeder in front of them, where Anakin and Amidala rode.
Qui-Gon hid a smile, placing one hand gently on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "Please do not tell me you can't see his infatuation with her."
"She's a Queen," Obi-Wan complained, "He's a slave." He halted suddenly, giving Qui-Gon an anxious look. "Please tell me you already knew Padmé's true identity." At Qui-Gon's nod, he let out a relieved sigh. "Thank the Force. She would kill me if I ever told anyone." He settled back, keeping a gaze trained on Anakin's speeder again before sighing.
"Something up?" Qui-Gon inquired.
"Yes, actually," Obi-Wan said. Uneasily, he quickly crossed gazes with Qui-Gon. "What will...become of me after this is all over?"
Qui-Gon drew out a breath, closing his eyes at the difficult question. "After we get the parts for the craft, we'll all go the Coruscant. From there, you'll follow wherever Amidala goes." He hesitated. "You will keep your weapon."
"What?" Obi-Wan asked, startled.
Qui-Gon nodded at him, "You will keep your lightsaber. It is your honor."
"I gave up that honor," Obi-Wan said, his voice faltering. "Besides, I couldn't possibly bring it any honor. Not if I use it like I use the Force on occasion."
"Obi-Wan, you were never not a Jedi," Qui-Gon insisted. "You will always be a Jedi. Perhaps not a Jedi Knight, or a Jedi Padawan, or any of those titles, but as long as you were at the Temple, as long as you use the Force with good intentions at heart, you will be a Jedi."
"As long as I use the Force with good intentions at heart," Obi-Wan quoted. "Tell me, Qui-Gon, what have I done that has allowed you to make such a...declaration?"
Stretching his legs in the cramped space, Qui-Gon took his time before answering, "When have you ever done something with bad intentions at heart?" He held up one hand before Obi-Wan could respond. "Bad intentions, Obi-Wan. Not anger."
"Master Yoda believes evil and anger are the same," Obi-Wan noted.
"You were thirteen. That's over a decade ago."
"If you excuse the Tusken Raider incident."
Softly, Qui-Gon said, "You were trying to save me. Everything wrong you believe you have done, you have always done so because you believed it was right. And as long as you follow your instincts Obi-Wan, you can never do no wrong in my eyes."
Speechless, Obi-Wan took his eyes off Anakin, staring at Qui-Gon.
"I reacted badly to Melida/Daan," Qui-Gon said flatly, "I never should have left you there in the first place. Melida/Daan was more my fault then mine because I didn't see how attached you were to the Young. I was too determined to get Tahl to safety. Personal reasons. You had the whole planet's future at heart."
Seeing Obi-Wan open his mouth to argue the point, Qui-Gon quickly interrupted him again, "I am not excusing Bruck or even the Tusken Raider episode. But I do believe you earn the honor to wield a lightsaber and to claim the title Jedi."
"I'm not a Jedi," Obi-Wan muttered instinctually.
"Obi-Wan." Qui-Gon laid one hand reassuringly on Obi-Wan's. Glancing deep into those blue eyes, he fought to see a glimmer of the thirteen-year-old boy. "I trust you," he whispered softly before settling back down onto his seat.
Stunned, Obi-Wan worked his jaw a few times before managing out the words. "You don't know...how much...I mean..." he cleared his throat, attempting to start over. "I've always hoped I could hear those words from you, Qui-Gon."
***
"Where are you from?" Anakin asked curiously, sparing a glance over his shoulder to see Amidala.
"Naboo," Amidala answered. She started to say she was handmaiden to the Queen, but stopped short. Something deep within her said not to lie to him. "Are you from Mos Espa?" she asked, recalling the name from Qui-Gon's briefing on Tatooine.
"Yeah. My mom and I were owned by Gradulla the Hutt, but she lost us betting on podraces."
"Podraces?" Amidala asked.
Anakin grinned, "It's the greatest competition in the world. You go over 900 miles per hour, speeding over the dunes...it's great. I'm the only human who can do it."
"We have something like that on Naboo," Amidala said, "By the lakes. There's always a speedboat race down waterfalls and across rapids. Fascinating to watch."
"I'd like to compete there," Anakin bragged, "I can fly anything."
"It's not really flying...more like, driving."
"Same thing. I've been flying all my life." Anakin's face shadowed. "Of course I've never won any podraces yet, but I will. The next big one...I'll win it."
Curiously, Amidala asked, "Why have you never won?"
A mischievous look flitted over Anakin's face as he allowed the craft to swerve alarmingly. "Oh, you know, I've crashed every single pod." Alarm flew over Amidala's face.
"Should I be worried now?" she asked.
"It was never my fault. Sebulba cheats. One time, he brought a razor to the race and sliced my cables. I'm lucky that I got out of that one. Watto wasn't too happy though, even when I showed him there was no way I could have crashed and then sliced my cables."
"Watto?" Amidala asked blankly. "The person you work for?"
"Uh-huh," Anakin said. His face twisted in a grimace. "I asked him if he could free my mother in exchange for me serving him the rest of his life, but he refused. The guy wouldn't last long anyway if it weren't for me. He can't fix a thing."
"What do you wish you could be one day, Anakin?" Amidala asked, attempting to drive him away from the obviously delicate subject.
Anakin furrowed his brow, "I've never told anyone, but I really want to be someone with power," he confided quietly, "Being ruled all my life...just gives you that yearning to...have some of that power yourself."
"You want to be a slave master?" Amidala asked, astonished.
"No!" Anakin said hastily. "Maybe a politician. A ruler. I don't really know the right terms."
"A Senator?" Amidala asked, "That's what I want to be too."
"Maybe I'll see you one day," Anakin said, "Because one day, I'm going to fly away from this place." He gestured Mos Espa up ahead. "Tatooine is no place to live, trust me."
"I can see that," Amidala said softly.
Anakin paused before his next question. "Why are you guys here on Tatooine anyway? I mean, two Jedi and a...girl like you?"
"We're stranded here, actually. We need a new engine for our ship. But we're on an important mission for the Republic." Amidala sighed. "My whole world is suffering every second that we dawdle."
Anakin frowned. "I'm sure you'll get one," he comforted.
***
"Peedunkal!" Watto roared the moment Anakin stepped inside the shop. "Where have you been?" he snarled in Basic before catching sight of Amidala, Obi-Wan, and Qui-Gon.
Obi-Wan exchanged a guilty look with Qui-Gon. Clearly they had not been aware that Anakin had wasted too much time ferrying them back to Mos Espa. And now he was in trouble. Qui-Gon stepped forward. "We need parts. Anakin kindly directed us here. The journey took a bit longer than you may have liked..."
"Parts?" Watto swung away from Anakin immediately.
"I need a new engine," Qui-Gon said.
Watto gave a derisive snort. "Why not just buy a new ship, then?" he sneered, "What do you have to pay?"
Qui-Gon leaned forward, fixing Watto with a stern gaze. "You have one, suited for a J-type Nubian, do you not?"
"What will you pay?" Watto pressed.
"I have 20,000 Republic – "
"Crystals," Anakin interjected. "He has 20,000 crystals."
Qui-Gon gave Anakin a hard look, but Anakin made a small slashing gesture with one hand. "Why don't I go out back and get the engine and then Qui-Gon can make his payment?" he asked Watto. "Obi-Wan, come with me."
At Qui-Gon's nod, Obi-Wan followed Anakin. The moment they were out of earshot, Obi-Wan drew Anakin aside and hissed, "What are you doing?"
"Dataries don't work," Anakin insisted, "Watto needs something more real."
"We don't have 20,000 crystals," Obi-Wan reminded sharply.
Anakin squirmed under Obi-Wan's disapproving tone. "Okay, want to hear my plan?" he defended.
Obi-Wan folded his arms across his chest. "Try it," he said.
"I'll put the engine out front, then you, Qui-Gon, and Amidala leave." Seeing Obi-Wan's astonished look, he quickly finished, "Look, it's more my engine that Watto's. I found it; I fixed it. But he took it away from me. Therefore, he wouldn't even have it if it weren't for me. So take it."
"Qui-Gon won't approve," Obi-Wan said.
"Well that's okay. As long as Amidala is happy."
Obi-Wan studied the young man curiously. "You're doing this for Amidala?" he questioned, seeing Anakin blush.
"I don't like seeing her unhappy and feeling useless," Anakin said, "She told me so in the speeder ride, that she felt so useless just sitting here while her people died. I have to help her, someway."
Giving Anakin a calculating look, Obi-Wan nodded. Anakin sounded sincere. "Let's bring the engine out front then. I'll try to explain to Qui-Gon."
***
Maul grunted, flipping himself backwards. His muscles ached as he forced them to push onwards. They had been fighting for hours now, slashing and parrying in fluid movements. The only good mark was that he could sense Xanato's exhaustion too, as both their movements became slower and their blows declined in strength.
"Good, good," Sidious chuckled, seeing the two of their struggle. "Let hatred flow through you."
Maul halted a blow centimeters from his face, forcing it to the left. "Jedi, why don't you make this easy and give up?"
"I'm stronger than you," Xanatos sneered back, sweat plastering his face and scar. "When will you admit it?" With a backwards leap, he gave distance between the two, assuming a new offensive posture.
Approaching carefully, Maul parried a flurry of wild slashes, keeping his head cool as he lunged forward, slicing downwards before reversing and bringing his stroke soaring above Xanatos's feeble parry. The blow landed on flesh.
Xanatos screamed, twisting underneath before the blade could continue cutting through his shoulder. Switching hands, he came at Maul again, more furiously, the pain driving his movements. Maul took steps backwards, quickly losing the ground he had gained. Reaching out for the Force, he shoved Xanatos with all the strength he could muster, but Xanatos barely slid backwards.
Hastily, Maul worked his arms, slicing his lightsaber in parallel motions across his body to deflect Xanatos' attack. His reserves of strength wore out as he sliced, struggling again to open up space between the two.
Bringing his lightsaber high over his head, Xanatos thrust downwards in one last desperate attack. Maul turned it aside easily, ready to go on the defensive again - when the Force surged like a flame in Xanatos and he felt himself be hurled backwards until he slammed against the wall.
Bright flashes of light exploded across his vision as he slumped downwards. A bright flash of heat swept across his chest before he knew nothing more. Panting, Xanatos deactivated his lightsaber as he studied his downed opponent.
***
"This is a bad idea," Qui-Gon stated immediately the second Obi-Wan explained.
Obi-Wan shifted uncomfortably. "So will you accept Anakin's proposal?"
Qui-Gon sighed, "The Jedi Council will not be happy...but there is no other way to get those parts that we need."
A relieved sigh graced Obi-Wan's features. "Good...because we already have it on the speeder. All we need to do now is slip gracefully away."
"What about Anakin?"
"What about him?" Obi-Wan asked, confused.
"He has helped us out. We owe him something."
Obi-Wan drew up short. "Slaves have transmitters in their bodies that prevents them from running away. They don't even know where the transmitter is located."
"Perhaps the Force could neutralize it," Qui-Gon mused, even as Obi-Wan shook his head.
"Qui-Gon, I worked with such transmitters earlier on. It's impossible to locate them, let alone neutralize them." Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon anxiously. "We owe him a thank-you and I have already delivered one."
Sighing, Qui-Gon nodded. "Amidala is in the shop, talking with him, I believe."
"I'll go get her," Obi-Wan offered, heading back inside.
***
"Thank you," Amidala whispered softly, brushing a kiss across Anakin's cheek. He blushed, unable to form words as he stared at Amidala.
"I'm going to marry you one day," he said, his expression one of certainty.
Amidala formed a sad smile. "I hope you'll be able to fly away from this place, one day," she said, "The Naboo owe you everything. I'm sure I'll be able to pull a few strings, get the money to buy your freedom."
The young man shook his head. "Save your money," he insisted, "And even if you get enough to free a slave, free my mother." He gestured back towards the back of the shop, where Amidala assumed his mother worked. "She deserves better than this. She is nothing but goodness."
"You are nothing but good too, Anakin Skywalker," Amidala said before Obi-Wan suddenly cleared his throat from behind her.
"We're leaving," Obi-Wan said. He turned towards Anakin and gave a short bow. "Thank you, Anakin Skywalker. We'll do everything within our power to assist you once our primary mission is over."
"You saved my life," Anakin said casually, "Least I could do."
Amidala crossed the room over to where Obi-Wan stood. "Thank you, Anakin. It was nice talking to you," she added quietly.
"It was nice talking to you too!" Anakin called over her shoulder as she turned and left. Discouraged, Anakin picked up a spare tool, playing with it in his hands. I guess part of my dream was wrong, after all. That angel won't be carrying me to freedom.
***
Anxiously, Obi-Wan paced the halls of the Jedi Temple, unable to control himself. At last, Qui-Gon rose from his seat, placing one hand reassuringly on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "It's just the Council," he said softly.
Throwing his hands in the air, Obi-Wan protested, "Just?"
Qui-Gon squeezed his shoulder more firmly. "You'll be fine. They'll just want to hear your report of the mission."
With the Council's usual perfect timing, the doors slid open at his words. Taking a deep breath, Obi-Wan ducked his head appropriately, following Qui-Gon in.
"Master Jinn, Obi-Wan," Mace began, "The news of Naboo is getting quite alarming."
Obi-Wan's head shot up at those words. "What's happening?" he demanded impetuously, ignoring Qui-Gon's look of warning.
Mace gave Obi-Wan a hard look before continuing, "Even with the Queen gone, and Governor Sio Bibble dead, the people refuse to give in. The Neimodians are not noted for their patience. They have begun executions of the people."
Obi-Wan drew in a sharp breath.
"The best course of action we can take is to order Queen Amidala to remain here for her own safety. Master Qui-Gon, you will continue to defend her, with the help of her security chief if you need." He gestured towards Obi-Wan.
"What about the people?" Obi-Wan pressed tightly.
"We will send five Jedi teams to fend off the Trade Federation and force negotiations with the Neimodians. Ten Jedi should be sufficient for such a task. Hopefully peace shall be attained. In the meantime, we recommend Amidala and Senator Palpatine argue this case before the Senate." Mace laced his fingers together. "Do you accept this, Qui-Gon?"
Giving Mace a hard look, Qui-Gon said, "I will accept if Obi-Wan does."
Breathing out a long-suffering sigh, Mace Windu acknowledged Obi-Wan. "Obi-Wan Kenobi," he said formally, "Do you accept?"
"That is not the best course of action," Obi-Wan argued immediately. "The Queen will never agree and frankly, neither will the people. If you want to avoid a direct confrontation, we must address this issue with the Trade Federation immediately."
"I did not ask your opinion!" Mace thundered, "I asked if you accept."
Obi-Wan stared at Mace flatly. "That was my way of informing you I do not accept and neither will the people."
"Mace, consider what he has to say," Qui-Gon pleaded. "Obi-Wan has spent the past twelve years with the Naboo. He knows them."
Sighing, Mace made a small motion to a Jedi initiate standing at attention, who promptly went off. "Then we'll inform those five Jedi teams to request audience immediately with the Neimodians," he said.
"I need to go back with Amidala," Obi-Wan said. "A meeting before the Senate will do no good. They'll take their time debating the issue until nothing is left of Naboo."
"Wait, you shall," Master Yoda finally spoke up. Obi-Wan diverted his attention to the diminutive Jedi Master. "Speak with the Senate, your reason for leaving Naboo, was. Allow Amidala one chance, you should. Set into motion further things, it will."
Obi-Wan's expression remained a mask.
"Go where Amidala goes, you shall, Obi-Wan Kenobi," Yoda said, thumping his gimer stick on the floor for extra emphasis.
At last, Obi-Wan nodded.
"Then may the Force be with you," Yoda said as both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan bowed and turned to leave the room. "Remain you shall, Master Qui-Gon Jinn."
Without hesitating, Qui-Gon returned to the center of the room, even as the Council doors swung closed behind Obi-Wan's hasty retreat. Immediately, he turned on Mace. "Did you have to make it so obvious you did not want to address him?" he demanded.
Cool eyes stared back at him. "Did you believe things could ever go back to the way they were before Melida/Daan, Qui-Gon? That we can laugh and excuse the past twelve years?"
"I don't expect you to laugh."
Mace sighed, staring hard at Qui-Gon. "We didn't ask you to remain so you could argue the fate of Obi-Wan," he said. "You must make it clear to Obi-Wan that he may never go back to the Jedi Order."
"He is a Jedi," Qui-Gon stated flatly. "I gave him back his weapon. He will keep it. It is his right to wield it."
"Haven't we heard those words from someone before?" Mace asked harshly. "Xanatos maybe? He is not a Jedi and he cannot keep his lightsaber. He gave that up, twelve years ago."
Qui-Gon opened his mouth to protest, but Mace interrupted him. "You will continue to protect Queen Amidala until the threats against her life cease. You will then report immediately back to the Temple. Obi-Wan will continue to remain with Amidala, being the Naboo ambassador as well as her bodyguard." He glared at Qui-Gon. "He will never be a Jedi again."
"One should not use absolutes," Qui-Gon said tersely before bowing and leaving the room.
***
"Good job, my young apprentice," Sidious said, crossing over to the exhausted Xanatos. "Powerful you have become." He eyed Maul's body with disgust. "You must heal, now, before your ultimate test."
"Ultimate test?" Xanatos asked doubtfully.
Sidious's eyes shadowed. "The Neimodians are idiots," he growled out, "When they start hurting innocent people, the Jedi will place it in their priority. Soon we will have more meddling Jedi on our hands."
Xanatos rested one hand on his lightsaber. "Qui-Gon is among them," he read from Sidious's eyes.
"And that fool Obi-Wan Kenobi," Sidious said flatly. "Kill them all."
***
Obi-Wan strode down the Temple halls, subconsciously moving at a Force-enhanced speed. The cool air brushed against his heated face, allowing himself to gradually drive all frustration and irritation from his mind. Recalling even as an official Padawan, sessions with the Council had left him feeling this way helped.
A salmon-colored blur suddenly sped around the corner, halting before Obi-Wan. The next second, the blur was hugging him tightly. "Bant!" Obi-Wan choked out, struggling for air.
She pulled away from him, her eyes wet with tears. "When they said you were back at the Temple, I couldn't believe it!" She took in his strong stance, the blaster and lightsaber on his belt. "What's been happening?" she asked softly.
"You have changed so much," Obi-Wan avoided.
She placed her arms on her hips, in a posture Obi-Wan keenly recalled from his apprenticeship days. "Obi-Wan Kenobi," she said severely, "That will not work with me."
He sighed. "All right. Qui-Gon and I have...healed our ways, I guess. But Mace Windu hates me. Master Yoda seems neutral and the rest of the Council regards me as a traitor of sorts."
"Did you have a good life out there?" Bant asked. "Last I heard you were on Naboo, ambassador, and chief guard of Queen Amidala."
Obi-Wan shook his head dolefully. "Everybody thinks I'm her guard, but that's really Captain Panaka's job. I just back up his forces. And I'm in charge of all investigations." He forced a smile. "See, some of those Temple classes will do you good one day."
She hugged him again. "I've missed you so much. Everybody has."
"Doubtful," Obi-Wan stated flatly, remembering the cold look he had seen in Garen's eyes. "I've missed you too, Bant," he said softly. Yeah, that's an understatement, Kenobi. "You couldn't possibly imagine how much."
"Reeft has been missing you too." She made a face. "Kept complaining how his shooting partner was gone. Apparently I wasn't accurate enough or sensitive enough to his timing. We lost every single sim for quite awhile."
Obi-Wan sighed wistfully. "Looking back, I see there were so many better ways I could have handled that. All I thank now are that I've had a chance to see you again...and maybe this time we could stay in contact." He offered her a smile.
"You know my holonet address," Bant said, "What's yours?" The two quickly swapped addresses before Obi-Wan sighed, glancing again at his watch.
"Bant, I'm really sorry – " he was cut off as Bant gave him another hug, fresh tears running down her face. Cautiously, he placed both arms around her shoulders, returning the fierce hug.
"Don't speak of leaving."
Obi-Wan gave a glance around the Temple, mesmerizing taking in all the sights. He had yet forgotten what the Temple looked like in the past twelve years. Had he once truly felt as if he belonged here, that he wasn't a stranger? "I don't know if our paths will ever cross again," he said hesitantly.
Bant nodded, knowing the desperate truth in his words. "I love you like a brother, Obi-Wan," she said tearfully, "If we never see each other again...just know that."
He nodded grimly.
***
"Obi-Wan!"
Stiffly, Obi-Wan turned at the call, his shoulders tensing automatically when he saw Garen running over. Time had changed Garen's looks. His hair was still grown out and gathered in a loose ponytail, but something different was in his posture. It was as if a thousand point weight had been dropped on Garen's shoulders and he had to walk bearing it.
"Garen," he greeted coolly, uncertain how to play this.
"I just wanted to say – " Garen hesitated. "Are you heading back to the Senate quarters?" he asked softly.
"Yes."
"Could I have the honor of ferrying you there?" Garen requested, pointing towards a sleek ship in the hanger. "The Jedi had a starfighter program for a bit," he explained.
Obi-Wan swallowed hard, seeing nothing but sincerity in Garen's eyes. "Thank you," he said, "I need to meet Queen Amidala for a Senate meeting in an hour. Chancellor Valorum has called for a special hearing."
He followed Garen's strides into the ship, settling himself in the copilot's chair automatically, recalling flight sims the two had taken when they had been younger. Immediately realizing Garen might not want him in the cockpit, he half rose, but sat when Garen gestured. "It's your right," he said, staring steadily at the controls and avoiding Obi-Wan's questioning looks.
Gracefully, Garen lead the ship out of the hanger, dipping gently into the main lanes of traffic. At last, he cleared his throat, breaking the tense silence. "I'm sorry about – the incident twelve years ago, Obi-Wan. I'm not sure – Sith, there is no excuse," Garen admitted. "I was so wrong."
Obi-Wan felt a huge burden come off his shoulders, staring at Garen in surprise. "I feel the same way," he said at last, placing one hand over his chest. "It felt like a part of me was missing. Then again, leaving the Temple ripped a big hole out of my heart."
Garen looked at him out of the corner of one eye. "I couldn't stop thinking about it. When you left, all I could think about was the last words I had said to you. I don't mean anything, Obi – Obi-Wan."
"You can call me Obi," Obi-Wan reassured. "Gar." It felt so right to say those words; Obi-Wan let a relieved smile cross his face. The burden on Garen also lightened as he sat up straighter.
"So how have you been?" Garen asked.
"You know," Obi-Wan replied, falling back on an old tradition they had established ever since initiate years.
Garen's eyes widened as he recognized it before replying, "No, I don't. In full detail, you will tell me."
"Mock Master Yoda, you should not," Obi-Wan said, exchanging a quick laugh with Garen before the subject turned to the old times. Before Obi-Wan was fully aware of it, the ship had reached its destination at the Senate docking bay.
"Damn, I hate this part," Garen whispered. He stood up, clapping Obi-Wan over the back. "No goodbyes," he said seriously.
Obi-Wan tipped his head forward, remembering whenever he or his friends had left for missions, they had insisted on 'no goodbyes.' It was a promise, then, that they would return. "No goodbyes," he echoed before exiting the ship. Reaching the main gate, he turned back, seeing Garen still staring at him intently from the ship window. Unclipping his lightsaber from his belt, Obi-Wan raised the hilt to his forehead before tipping it down in a quick salute.
***
"Obi-Wan!" Panaka hissed. "Where have you been?"
Obi-Wan bowed contritely. "Sorry, Captain. I was...visiting old friends after the Council meeting." Panaka's expression softened immediately at Obi-Wan's words. He was amongst the few who knew of Obi-Wan's past.
"I'm glad you were, Obi-Wan," he said sincerely. "But Amidala has been requesting your presence. She would like if it you sat in the podium with her when she pleads our case to the Senate."
Startled, Obi-Wan's blue eyes flew open. "She would?" he stammered.
"Frankly, I'd be scared if she didn't," Panaka confided. "The hearing is scheduled in fifteen minutes, so if I were you, I'd clean up to present a good face to the Chancellor and Senator Palpatine."
"Right away," Obi-Wan said.
***
"Delegates of the Senate," Amidala began, "I come to under the gravest of circumstances. The Trade Federation has invaded our planet, begun killings of our civilians – "
"I object!" the Trade Federation delegate protested immediately. "There is no proof!"
Proof? Obi-Wan thought incredulously. A planet is being invaded and you refuse to do anything because you have no tangible evidence? He half-rose when Panaka gave him a quick warning glance.
Amidala glared coldly at the delegate. "You need proof?" she asked incredulously. "Perhaps you should ask Nute Gunray what he's been up to these past few weeks! Unless the Trade Federation has declined to such a point where you're not even aware what your viceroy is up to."
Working his jaw, he replied, "Or perhaps it's not even happening at all. You are young and naïve. How do you know it was not your aggressive actions against the Trade Federation that caused what you believe is an invasion?"
That did it. Obi-Wan leapt up. "Well then what do you suggest, Delegate?" he asked coolly. "It's still a matter of our word against yours."
"Obi-Wan," Amidala hissed softly.
"Who is that?" Chancellor Valorum asked. "Your Highness?"
Amidala cleared her throat. "This is Obi-Wan Kenobi – " whispers grew at those words as Obi-Wan uncomfortably recalled his leaving had caused a commotion in the Senate. "Ambassador Kenobi," she said.
Senator Palpatine who had been sitting calmly turned a startled look towards Obi-Wan. Sitting down carefully, Obi-Wan met the Senator's gaze, feeling the slightest stirring of the Force circulating around the man. He shook his head. When he reached out again, the Force was gone and a stoic expression was on Palpatine's face.
The Trade Federation delegate slammed his hand against the podium. "I have had enough of these accusations. She lies." He faced Valorum. "Chancellor, surely you see the – outrageous tale she spins." The Chancellor nodded faintly.
"I do not lie," Amidala said clearly, "If this body is not capable of action – " her eyes drifted towards Valorum, "Then I suggest new leadership is needed."
What? Obi-Wan balked immediately. Chancellor Valorum was their last hope! He had supported them so many times before. "Amidala," he tried.
"I move for a vote of no confidence, in Chancellor Valorum's leadership," Amidala said, letting out the words with a heavy sigh. A look of regret flitted across her face as the Chancellor sat back, stunned.
All around the building, chants of "Vote now!" echoed the air. Palpatine allowed a ghost of a smile to flicker across his lips.
***
"The Senate is dealing with things admirably," Qui-Gon said quietly, striding down the long hallway with Obi-Wan.
"I'm surprised as well," the younger man noted. "Palpatine has been nominated for Supreme Chancellor. He assures us the Federation will immediately have the full weight of the Republic forces upon them if they refuse to retreat from Naboo."
"That is good news," Qui-Gon said, surprised.
"It's as if the whole Senate agrees on this one issue." Obi-Wan nodded. "I was startled when Amidala gave that declaration." He made a face. "I'm almost certain Palpatine urged her to say it."
Qui-Gon eyed Obi-Wan. "You still don't trust politicians."
"Most politicians," Obi-Wan corrected. "My experiences with them have not been...pleasant." He drew his cloak tighter around his shoulders. "If the vote goes well, the Trade Federation will be ordered to leave by tomorrow."
"Things are rarely so simple."
A surprised look was sent his way. "You don't think Palpatine will win? This current situation will generate a strong sympathy vote for Naboo. He will be Chancellor."
"Will he be able to control the bureaucrats?" Qui-Gon asked quietly. "Will he help the Republic or will corruption take over him and twist his good intentions to evil?"
Obi-Wan could not provide an answer.
***
Xanatos took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself. He wore a simple, lightly armored jumpsuit as well as heavy boots. His lightsaber was clenched in one hand. Sixteen years he had waited for this moment, this moment when he would meet up again with Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi.
He barely remembered that thirteen-year-old boy, whom he had fought briefly with in the mine of Bandomeer. Obi-Wan had been so...promising. Even then, he had vowed to turn Kenobi over to him, to fill his mind with lies about Qui-Gon, but he had failed.
His hand tightened around the hilt of his lightsaber.
He would not fail again.
***
Obi-Wan paused outside his quarters. It was late. He wasn't even sure if it was tomorrow yet or if it was still today. The Senate building too had settled for the night, although his senses told him there was still some activity around.
Qui-Gon stood next to him, staring questionably at
him. What's he waiting for? Oh...the door. Obi-Wan inserted in his codes, startled when they blinked red
back at him. "What the -
he asked incredulously.
Behind him, he heard Qui-Gon take in a sharp breath. "Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said quietly, his voice tense.
Feeling his skin prickle, Obi-Wan turned, his hand automatically going to his lightsaber. He stared at Qui-Gon, seeing the master Jedi looking tense, scanning the hallways around them. "He's here," Qui-Gon said softly.
Reaching out for the Force, Obi-Wan too sensed the obvious disturbance. Xanatos. Anxiously, he pulled the 'saber from his belt, holding the hilt in one hand, thumb on the activation switch.
Xanatos's mocking voice came at them. "Very good, my Jedi."
"Xanatos, where are you?" Qui-Gon demanded, his voice steady.
"Patience, my old master." Xanatos gloated.
Touching out with every sense he could, Obi-Wan did his own scan of the hallway, even taking a peek above and below them. He could see nothing. Was this a trick? he wondered fleetingly. Had Xanatos left a tape recorder somewhere?
He barely had time to leap away just as a red blade slashed from behind him.
***
Whirling, Qui-Gon had his lightsaber activated in time to parry the violent slash. He immediately leapt between Xanatos and Obi-Wan, seeing Xanatos's first blow had left a burnt mark on Obi-Wan's cloak. The younger man had already shed the useless material aside and was moving to flank Xanatos in the limited room of the hallway.
Lightsabers grated together as Qui-Gon caught a close look at Xanatos's pale face. A red gleam highlighted it as Xanatos reluctantly retreated, losing ground to Qui-Gon despite himself. Whirling quickly, he parried Obi-Wan's slash, kicking out with one foot. Obi-Wan spun away, somersaulting through the air.
He could hear the sounds of footsteps. Guards. Innocent people. Quickly, he whirled, seeing three Senate guards run towards them. "Back away!" he shouted at them, whirling around just in time to parry another attack. Gracefully slicing through the air with his lightsaber, he worked hard, coming at Xanatos with stabbing movements.
"Foolish boy," Xanatos growled. "You think you can save them?" With a sharp movement of one hand, he sent all three guards flying backwards. "You're not strong enough, boy."
Qui-Gon came at Xanatos from the other side, slicing downwards in perfect tandem with Obi-Wan's sky-to-earth stroke. Easily, Xanatos dodged both, swinging between the two. "You're no match for me," he gloated.
Slipping quickly on his footing, Obi-Wan recovered his balance barely in time to leap backwards from the red blade. Thrusting, he attempted another attack, again breaking it off to defend himself.
Seeing the weaker factor in the battle, Xanatos turned his attention on Obi-Wan, shoving him roughly with the Force. Obi-Wan stumbled, reaching out one hand to steady himself. Quickly throwing his 'saber to the other hand, he fended off Xanatos's strikes, but when Xanatos threw his whole weight into it, his lightsaber went flying out of his grip.
Immediately, Qui-Gon was on him, forcing himself between the two. He swung brutally, hammering away at Xanatos even as a thin sheet of sweat broke out over his whole body. Leaping, he avoided Xanatos's fiery attack, coming back at him with steady strokes.
Obi-Wan went into a roll, coming up a few feet from the battling pair. He stretched out one hand, summoning the blade back to his hand. But there was no way he could get back into the battle. There simply wasn't the room for him to reach Xanatos's other side. Whirling, he quickly sliced through the wall into his quarters.
Catching onto Obi-Wan's plan, Xanatos aborted his attack of Qui-Gon, coming at Obi-Wan fiercely. Distracted, Obi-Wan couldn't spin his lightsaber around in time, the red blade catching him cleanly on the shoulder.
***
A wave of pain swept over Obi-Wan, accompanied by dizziness, but he couldn't stop now. Grimly, he fought off the pain, throwing his lightsaber to the other hand as Qui-Gon covered for him again, raining blows on Xanatos, again forcing the Sith to back away.
Weaving, Obi-Wan managed it into his quarters, slicing another hole through the wall on Xanatos's other side. Kicking the wall aside, he wavered, leaning briefly on the wall for help. Taking deep breaths, Obi-Wan found the strength to push himself away, making it completely through to slash at Xanatos's unprotected back.
Startlingly fast, Xanatos spun and parried, but the confident look in his eyes was dimming. Qui-Gon set him up for another trap, expecting Obi-Wan to come up to pin Xanatos against the wall, but Obi-Wan's reflexes had slowed. He was barely able to defend himself from Xanatos's vicious strikes.
The blades clashed again. Green on red. Red on blue. The sharp smell of sulfur rose in the air as the duel continued, Obi-Wan's movements slowing further and further as his injured shoulder protested every strike, every parry, every step.
He couldn't keep this up for long.
***
Amidala bolted awake immediately. "Something's wrong," she whispered softly. Reaching for a small blaster she kept on her nightstand table, Amidala rose, exiting her sleeping quarters. Rounding a corner to where Obi-Wan slept, she was stunned to see three unconscious guards slumped over the floor.
Daring herself to peek, Amidala saw the bright flashes of lightsabers. Qui-Gon was moving faster than her eye could track, diverting most of Xanatos's attacks towards himself and away from Obi-Wan. From here, she could barely see Obi-Wan's reassuring blue blade, but she saw enough to see Obi-Wan was moving much slower than he was capable of.
He was hurt. Badly.
***
Spinning again, his lightsaber a flash of red against the hallway, Xanatos smirked. "I've gotten stronger, haven't I, Master?" he mocked. "You never expected this. You didn't expect to see me alive again."
"I had been wondering where you had gotten to," Qui-Gon replied coolly. He had to keep Xanatos talking. Growing concern about Obi-Wan battled with the need to bring justice. Quickly, he ducked under a stroke, feeling the heat as he came back up to deflect a blow to the left.
Xanatos grunted, cleaving his blade high to block Obi-Wan's strike. He kicked, sending the lightsaber flying from Obi-Wan's shaky grip. Immediately, he whirled around, lightsaber gleaming, ready to finish Obi-Wan off once and for all.
Disarmed, Obi-Wan had no way to stop him.
And stuck on Xanatos's other side, Qui-Gon had no way of reaching him.
The red lightsaber rose and came down – just as the shot of a blaster rang out and Xanatos fell to the ground, his lightsaber deactivated and coming to a halt at Obi-Wan's feet. Startled, Qui-Gon whirled, seeing Padmé standing there, blaster drawn and smoking.
***
"His confidence overcame him in the end," Qui-Gon announced to the Council. "He is dead. I have seen to it that he is given a proper funeral, despite the crimes he has done. However there is no doubt that he had touched the Sith teachings. He was a Sith Lord."
Yoda tapped his gimer stick on the ground thoughtfully. Mace's eyebrows rose at his announcement, but he said nothing. And through the rest of the Council, Qui-Gon could sense their disbelief, but they too, didn't want to force an argument of the point.
"Then the Sith have truly returned," Plo Koon said at last, breaking the silence. "We must be on full alert now."
"And what of the situation on Naboo?" Mace asked, looking directly at Obi-Wan.
"The Trade Federation refused to leave Naboo after the Supreme Chancellor's warning. A Republic fleet has already killed them all." Obi-Wan spoke the last part unflinchingly. "Queen Amidala is returning home tomorrow."
Qui-Gon turned a gaze onto Obi-Wan, seeing steadiness in his former apprentice's eyes. The younger man had his shoulder bandaged nicely and he had changed into the only spare clothes the Jedi Temple had: Jedi robes. If it weren't for the blaster hanging at his belt instead of a lightsaber, he would appear the every image of a Jedi.
Mace heaved a sigh. "I would like to congratulate both of you on your success," he said.
"What happens now?" Qui-Gon dared to ask.
"Obi-Wan – " Mace trailed off. "Jedi Knight Kenobi will accompany Queen Amidala back to Naboo. There he will follow the path he wishes to make of his life. He will be welcome back at the Temple anytime, as a Jedi, and as a friend."
A surprised look graced both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan's expressions. At last, Obi-Wan spoke, "I'm honored by this."
"Then may the Force be with you, young Kenobi," Mace said gravely before allowing a slight smile to appear on his stern countenance. "Thank you, Obi-Wan," he said sincerely.
Qui-Gon hesitated before leaving, turning to Master Yoda and Windu. "What brought about this – change?" he inquired.
Mace sighed. "According to your report, he was willing to die for you. He showed undeniable courage and determination to protect everybody he could. He was able to push aside any anger and fear. Such are the qualities of a Jedi Knight."
"Will he truly be a Jedi Knight?" Qui-Gon asked.
"He will follow his own path."
Qui-Gon gave Mace a calculating look. "Will he?" he requested softly.
"If he wishes it, then yes," Mace said.
Qui-Gon nodded, satisfied.
***
Obi-Wan placed one hand on Amidala's shoulder. "I cannot wait to go back to Naboo," he said sincerely. "It will be good for all of us to rebuild and heal from the experience."
Startled, Amidala said, "You sound so wise, Obi."
"It rubs off on you," Obi-Wan said quietly. He picked up Amidala's bags, about to carry them to the freighter when the doorbell chimed insistently. The Force told him it was Qui-Gon.
Sure enough, the tall Jedi Master stepped inside, "Knight Kenobi," he said seriously.
Amidala overhead and identified the subtext of Qui-Gon's greeting. "You're a Jedi again!" she said eagerly to Obi-Wan. At his nod, she hugged him. "It's what you've always wanted," she said. "I'm so glad for you, Obi."
Obi-Wan gave her a smile before turning his attention to Qui-Gon. Unsure whether the meeting was formal or informal, he settled for a slight bow. "What did the Council say?" he asked.
"You are a full Jedi Knight," Qui-Gon said quietly. "You are free to go where you wish. Anytime you want to go to the Temple and request typical Jedi missions, you are free too. Likewise, if you wish to spend your life on Naboo, you can do so. The path is yours alone."
Swallowing a lump in his throat, Obi-Wan said, "And what of you, Qui-Gon?"
"I will be going to Tatooine." Qui-Gon resisted a smile as both of Obi-Wan's eyebrows rose. "I will not leave that boy there, not while the Sith seeks a new apprentice."
"So this is goodbye then."
Qui-Gon nodded at him. "Obi-Wan...you've grown into someone I'm so proud of," he said quietly, unable to phrase his words. "Despite everything we've been through, I don't remember much of that. I only remember the bright teenager you were, the amazing potential you showed. And now, all I'm grateful for is that the galaxy can now see how truly talented you are. You're a Jedi Knight now."
Obi-Wan blinked back tears. "I know we've barely had a week together, but you've taught me more on this one mission than any Master could teach in a lifetime. Everything I have, I owe to you."
Qui-Gon laid a large hand on his shoulder. "Whatever comes to us, our paths will cross again."
"I look forward to it...Master," Obi-Wan tried. The words sounded right. As if every piece of the puzzle had suddenly fallen into place.
"As do I, Padawan."
The End
