Title: Jedi Warrior
Rating: R
Category: AU
Summery:The true Emperor of Naboo ends up fighting in the arena where he meets the most famous of the Jedi Warriors.
Note: This is a Star Wars TPM story based on an idea after watching Gladiator. The story follows a similer plot up until chapter 2.
Disclaimer SW: Not mine. George Lucus owns them (lucky him) I make no money from them
Feedback: Please tell me what you think.
Thanks to: Mady for betaing
Part One
Chapter 1 - General
The battle lines were drawn, the fight inevitable. General Qui-Gon Jinn strolled down the centre line of his men, returning salutes and smiles; his thoughts were elsewhere though, to what lay ahead. This would be the final battle of the war, his last fight. He had spent his life at war with the conquered lands of the Naboo Empire. He fought for the Empire, its people and for his Emperor. Finally the resistance to their rule was fading and Qui-Gon was glad. A life of war had made him a hard man, but made his longing for someone to love stronger. The only thing that had changed was that he could hide the longing from others and sometimes forget.
The Nabooan soldiers were gathered on a slight incline, with mud, stone and pikes creating a barrier between them and the enemy. Archers stood ready to let flamed arrows fly free, catapults pushed back were poised to throw a hail of fire. The enemy was not yet in sight, nevertheless they were coming.
Qui-Gon gathered his company of men and set off at a canter to circle around the barbarian attackers. Caught between two sides, they would fall quickly. The Nabooan soldiers formed a line ready to charge when their general gave the word.
"This is it, lads, our final push. After it is over we can finally go home." His words were met with a cheer and the general smiled before nodding to his lieutenant, who raised his bow and set free a flaming arrow. It rose above the tree line and was the sign to those on the hillside that the general was ready and was about to push forward. It was also a sign to those at his side that it was time to begin. As one the horses leaped forward, charging towards the enemy that was already engaged in battle at the hill.
Emperor Yoda watched from behind the front line, safely surrounded by his guard. A soft snow began to fall and the sadness in the old emperor's eyes seemed to grow. He knew General Jinn would win, he always did; it was a sound plan with talented warriors to back it up yet it was still a fight, a battlefield that would end as a river of blood scattered with bodies lying face down in the mud.
The general burst from the trees surprising the enemy, and the tide of battle changed not in direction but intensity. They would still win, except now it would be a slaughter. The barbarians never surrender; they would rather die than bow to the Emperor of Naboo, and today that would happen.
Fires raged and the ground became slick with blood and then the world was silent, holding its breath as the victory was won and the victors looked about them to see what they had accomplished. The soldiers did not cheer their victory because they knew in war, no one wins you, either live or die. Many lived many did not and those who had not survived must be remembered. Slowly the world began to break through again. The wounded were taken to a place to be cared for, the dead were burnt, as was tradition, with even the enemy were granted this. They had died bravely and Qui-Gon Jinn would not have them punished any more for what had happened that day.
The war was over and it was time to go home.
The tent was dark and smoky, as Qui-Gon knelt before a bowl of hot, soapy water his servant Panaka had prepared. It was a relief to wash off the tell tale signs of war. Blood, sweat and mud were splashed on his body, his skin seemed ivory white beneath their rich colours. He was born in Naboo but he had spent too many years in the northern lands fighting, so that the warm glow of sunshine that had soaked into his skin had bled away. The sun here was cold and its light white.
Qui-Gon Jinn, General of the Nabooan army, Emperor Yoda's nephew, a nobleman and the third in line for the throne. His parents had died when he was young and he had no siblings, so Yoda had become like a father to him and his sons, Maul and Xanatos, his brothers.
He had lived his life in luxury until he had chosen to join the army at eighteen. He quickly became an accomplished soldier and with no assistance from the Emperor, had risen through the ranks quickly. He had the respect of the poor and the rich, his soldiers and other officers. Something was still lacking though and whatever it was remained elusive to the General.
Maul married a beautiful Dantooine woman with plenty of money in the hope of producing legitimate heirs. Maul had not married for love but because he wanted power and above all else, he wanted to be the next emperor.
Xanatos was to marry a young noblewoman named Amidala Naberrie when she became of age in a years time and in contrast to Maul, they were marrying for love. Xanatos had a poet's heart and Amidala had a compassionate soul. They would be happy together.
"Sir?"
"Yes, Panaka?"
"The Emperor is asking for you."
"Help me get dressed." Qui-Gon's voice was tired and his movements slow, however his Emperor called and nothing on earth could stop him from going to him. Panaka had been with Qui-Gon for many years; he was loyal, a confidant and a friend. He took great care in helping his master to dress in clean tunics and to don a heavy winter cloak. Before leaving, the General squeezed his servant's hand in thanks and went to his Emperor.
Panaka sat with his master's armour and boots and began to clean them. He wished he could clean his master of the blood but all he could do was remove all signs of it so that's what he did, taking time and patiences in his work.
The officers of the Nabooan army engaged themselves in a feast, drinking, talking and laughing. A few pleaded for the General to stay, others greeted him warmly, although they did not interrupt his course. Beyond lay the entrance to the Emperor's tent and the elderly man himself.
"My Emperor." Qui-Gon knelt before his ruler and bowed his head showing his respect for the other man's position and accomplishments.
"Stand, Qui-Gon, I wish us to talk as equals now." The first time Yoda had said these words to the General he had protested, however the Emperor had insisted, as over the years, General Jinn had performed such feats to justify Yoda's words. "My son, Maul is coming. He will arrive tomorrow. He expects me to appoint him my heir but I have decided not to do what he all but demands of me."
Yoda seemed to shrink before Qui-Gon's eyes; he seemed suddenly very tired and old.
"I love my son, nevertheless he can not be allowed to rule."
"Xan then? I would serve him as loyally as I have served you."
"I do not doubt it, Qui-Gon, but Xan has no wish to be Emperor, too in love he is."
"Then who?" Qui-Gon was genuinely puzzled for he could think of no one else.
"You, Qui-Gon. No one would argue my decision for after my sons you are next in line, blood wise. You are a respected man and you know the value of peace." Yoda shuffled over to the large bed, which was covered in animal furs and woollen blankets in an effort to keep the dying man warm. "Maul can not be ruler. He is a born warrior but he has not seen war as we have. He sees my victories over others as a sign of Naboo's strength, when all I see is the blood."
A sigh escaped the dry cracked lips and turned into a wheezing cough.
"I did all that I've done to keep my people safe and now it is over, though for Maul it will never be over. He would find someone else to fight even if they came from within. That is why I must betray my son now, to continue to uphold the promise I made to Naboo. I vowed to keep them safe, Qui-Gon and despite by son's desires, I will hurt him for them. You are a good man and you would make a splendid Emperor."
Qui-Gon could not speak, he did not wish to be ruler and he didn't want Maul to be bitter towards, him yet in his heart he knew what Yoda said was true. Naboo needed someone strong and that someone was not Maul.
"Do not protest now, think on it first, I implore you, and whatever you decide I will accept."
"Yes, Lord," was all Qui-Gon could say.
"Xan will be coming with his brother. He's been looking forward to seeing you."
"The feeling is mutual."
"I'm glad that you found a family with us. Go now and let me rest before I must greet my young sons." The Emperor smiled as he talked of his family with General Jinn smiling in return, glad his leader had some joy in his life.
"Goodnight, My Emperor." He left, once more among the feasting officers, and this time he did allow them to draw him in, taking his own pleasure in the food, drink and women who had arrived while he'd been with Yoda.
"Father," Prince Xanatos called out, happy to see his father again. When the Emperor had left on the campaign it wasn't known if he would come home alive. He was ill and was fading fast. Yoda held his son in a loose embrace, yet holding him close. Maul watched from a few paces back, reserved as always. When Yoda finally turned to him, he did not embrace him but bowed, saying,
"My Lord."
"Xanatos, go find Qui-Gon, he has been looking forward to seeing you. I must have a word with your brother."
"Of course, father." The younger prince did bow then, continuing to smile as he did so. "I shall see you later." He left the tent with a bounce in his step in search of his adopted brother.
"Sit, Maul. It makes me tired watching you."
"As you wish." Maul had dark hair like his brother but instead of allowing it to grow long like Xanatos, he cut it off short. He voice was low and gravelly and was a voice that put fear into his enemies. It never held any emotion, just like his eyes that were so brown and so dark they appeared black. The only glimmer occasionally seen within them was contempt. Maul's face was a mask; who knew what lay behind it?
"You have won, My Lord. You must be very proud."
"Yes, I suppose I must." Yoda shrugged. "But it is the future of the Empire I wish to disgust with you not my victory. I grow old and weak and this war has taken its toll on me also. I know my reign will soon end which has made me think long and hard about who shall rule my people after I am gone." Yoda watched Maul. The man who was his son gave nothing away of his own feelings, but the Emperor fancied he saw Maul's interest and attention peak. "I love you, my son. Despite the abhorrence you hold for me I will not, however allow you to rule Naboo."
"What?" The mask cracked and anger showed beneath it. "Who then, if not me?"
"Your brother."
"Xan?"
"Qui-Gon. I don't do this to hurt you, Maul. It is time for peace and I know Qui-Gon will see it done."
"No, you can't."
"It is already done." Yoda leaned back and close his eyes. "I am tired now, we can discuss this more later if you wish." They never did though. As silently as a phantom, Maul moved over to his father, and taking a cushion from one of the chairs, he held it down over his father's face until the struggling ceased and the old man's breathing stopped.
"Hello General." Qui-Gon turned to find a tall slender man in the doorway to his tent. The young man had raven hair and although he was silhouetted, Qui-Gon knew steel blue eyes were gazing at him.
"Lord Xanatos." The General bowed low to the son of the Emperor of Naboo. "Greetings."
"To you, also." Xanatos began to smile, no longer able to keep up the act. In the past this game could go on some while with neither breaking out into laughter. Today was different however, for they had not seen each other for a long time and each was relieved to see the other. "Come here, Brother and welcome me properly."
The General of the most powerful army the world had ever seen, chuckled.
"You never were much of an actor, Xan." He gave the younger man an affectionate squeeze and patted him on the back.
"I am a poet, not an actor."
"How was your journey?" Qui-Gon deliberately avoided the poet/actor comment, knowing if he entered into that conversation now he'd never get to hear of his brother's life since he'd last seen him.
"Fine, fine but Maul is not much of a conversationalist as you well know. It was more or less a one sided conversation the whole way from Theed."
"Xan, you can talk enough for six people and you enjoy talking." Qui-Gon turned to the jug of wine on his papers as he spoke, wishing he could see Xan's face when he made the comment but knowing if he did he'd be unable to keep a straight face.
"Are you saying I like the sound of my own voice?" the prince asked suspiciously as he took the glass of wine Qui-Gon offered him.
"Of course not. You are a poet and your gift is words."
"Nice recovery."
"Thank you." General Jinn gestured to one of the chairs and Xan sat down with his drink. "Have you seen your father yet?"
"Only briefly. He wanted to talk to Maul."
"Ah."
"He's already asked you then?"
"Excuse me?" Qui-Gon almost chocked on his wine, he'd not been expecting that.
"About being our next Emperor." A smile tugged at Qui-Gon's lips threatening to spill out. With an effort not to appear accusing, he asked,
"How do you know?"
"I may not want any power, but that doesn't mean I am stupid and don't understand what is happening around me."
"Sorry," Qui-Gon's smile grew though. "I wasn't suggesting you were stupid. You are, however, deliriously in love and we know how that can effect the brain."
"Will you do it?" Prince Xanatos refused to be distracted from the conversation.
"I don't know, Xan." The General's shoulders sagged as if carrying the burden of his choice physically. "Could I be a good leader?"
"You already are, Qui-Gon."
"No, Xan. I'm a good officer, meaning I can lead soldiers and that is not the same."
"You are a fair man, Qui-Gon Jinn and that is all the people ask. You have compassion and are still able to deliver just punishment without being harsh. You are a good choice."
"You are all of these things, too, so why can't you do it?" It wasn't really a serious question, Xanatos had always made it clear he wanted nothing to do with government, but today Qui-Gon needed an argument.
"I don't want to," Xanatos said. It was the same answer he always gave when asked.
"Neither do I."
"You are considering it though, at least more than I would."
"Did he send you to talk me into it?" Qui-Gon looked at his brother, a lingering sadness creped into his blue eyes.
"No, he does not even know that I know. Neither does Maul and I'd rather you didn't mention it, either."
"Don't want to be caught snooping, huh?" Humour had returned to the General a little.
"No, and I wasn't snooping anyway."
"Yes, you were."
"No, I wasn't."
Yes, you were."
"No, I wasn't and I am the Emperor's son." Qui-Gon felt sure there should be a rule on the number of times you can win an argument with 'I am the Emperor's son'. He didn't say that though, instead he decided to try and neutralise Xanatos' trump card.
"Sorry Xan, I've seen you fall face first into the mud after drinking too much too many times to revere you. The image of the powerful emperor's son is totally lost on me. Lord Xanatos."
"General Jinn?" Both the seated men turned in surprise to the sudden appearance of Bruck, one of the foot soldiers in the camped army.
"Yes, Bruck?" Qui-Gon asked.
"Your presence is required in the Emperor's tent. Immediately." Bruck didn't leave after delivering his message, instead he waited for the two older men to stand, put their cloaks on and then escort them across the camp to the large canvas structure, which stood on slightly higher ground.
The feast from the night before had left its mark. The ground had become a muddy maze of footprints; the air was filled with the smell faintly of spilled wine and dropped food. The tables were gone and the fires extinguished. The air was cold and bitter and still, perhaps in muted testament to what awaited the brothers in their Emperor's and father's sleeping chamber. Their pace slowed as if to postpone the inevitable, to try and undo what their hearts told them had happened.
They entered the tent and stopped. The only movement was their breathing and the tears that began to trickle down Xanatos' cheeks. The Prince was still, but compared to Qui-Gon, Xanatos was radiant with life.
The Nabooan General's face had drained of its normal colour and seemed almost grey, his eyes stared unseeing, his lips were slightly parted, only letting through the tiniest draft of air as he breathed.
"Yoda, ruler of Naboo, leader of the greatest army seen and Emperor of lands beyond Naboo's borders, lay dead, his pale eyes lifeless and half closed. Kneeling by his bedside was Maul, son to a lost father and brother to the two men who had just entered.
"Brothers, come in, kneel with me, pray with me, morurn with me." Without another word the three brothers knelt and wept for the great man who had left them for a place unknown.
A day passed after the Emperor's death before Maul called Qui-Gon to him.
"Qui-Gon, before my father died he appointed me Emperor, for he knew his time was coming and wanted his people in strong hands. You are not my brother by blood, but I think of you as such. Kneel before your Emperor, Qui-Gon and I will show you favour as my father did before me." Xanatos watched his brothers and could not believe the words Maul said.
"But..." Xanatos was interrupted by Qui-Gon. The General could afford to make and enemy of Maul, Prince Xanatos could not.
"I will not bow to you Maul, for I wish to find a home, not simply survive in an army doing your bidding. Yoda did not want the wars to continue, which is why he hesitated in naming you. I will not stay and I will not fight battles he did not want." General Jinn had to be careful; he did not want Maul to know that Xanatos and himself already knew of the Emperor's real wishes. He did need to show that he did not trust the self appointed Emperor, nor would he support him politically or with his blade.
"You will not serve me?" It wasn't really a question, it was a chance for Qui-Gon to back down, and it was a chance the General would not take.
"No, I will not."
"Then you are dismissed." Qui-Gon bowed slightly and left the tent.
"Qui-Gon?" He heard Xanatos calling after him. "Wait!" But he did not wait, he did not stop until he was once again in his own tent.
"Where are you going?" Xanatos had followed him in but Qui-Gon did not answer. "Why did you not tell him we knew what my father really wanted?"
"Because he would have killed me."
"Then I shall tell him."
"He would not hesitate to kill you also, Xan. I can look after myself, but you have Dala to consider and if you are still at his side, then I know someone is talking to him with a cool head."
"You are meant to be Emperor."
"That is treason, Xan." A sad smile crossed the older man's lips.
"It's what the Emperor wanted."
"Go, be at your brother's side, I have lost favour with the royal house." Xanatos looked long and hard at the man he considered his brother just as much as Maul. When he spoke it was to once again object.
"Qui-Gon..." He didn't get to finish because the General cut him off.
"At least I'm alive, Xan." It was true and difficult to argue with.
"I love you, my brother and I would have followed you freely if you were our Emperor." Xanatos embraced Qui-Gon and left, not daring to say any more or to look back.
"Panaka, you should go, too, you need not be connected to all this." The General had not taken his eyes of the retreating back off the prince but he knew his servant was there, he had known he was there the whole time.
Captain Panaka stepped out from the shadows.
"He may still kill you, General."
"Yes, I know."
"I will see you again, General."
"Yes, I know that, too. You have always been loyal and a true friend and it is because of that friendship that I ask you to go. I need you to keep your eye on Maul and make sure his brother and Lady Amidala are safe."
"I will do as you ask." And then he, too, was gone from the General's tent, leaving Qui-Gon alone to wait untill morning to see if he would be allowed to live in exile or to die a traitor's death.
They came for him as the world once again grew light. They entered his tent without permission and found him standing, ready to be taken away. He did not struggle and he did not fight them. A horse was brought to him and he mounted it without hesitation. The soldiers led Qui-Gon out of the camp. The world passed them by, the snow covered ground, the evergreen trees and the few birds and animals already awake. Qui-Gon took little notice of these things, instead sinking into himself, calming his mind and his heart. Preparing. They rode until the lead soldier decided they were far enough away from the camp before stopping and pulling the silent prisoner from his horse.
"Kneel," one of them ordered, which one, Qui-Gon was not sure.
A man who he had never seen before, one of Maul's men, positioned himself behind Qui-Gon, his sword ready to strike. The kneeling figure tensed waiting for the blow that never came. There was a scuffle and then a body fell beside him, with the face of Maul's soldier staring at him. A hand came into his sight, reaching out to him, helping him to stand. Bruck Chun, Garen Muln and Anakin Skywalker stood before him.
"Captain Panaka said he would watch Maul." Bruck spoke words Qui-Gon already knew but it was a sign that the three soldiers were there with their Captain's knowledge.
"Why?" Qui-Gon managed to ask.
"Because you are our General."
"What will you tell him?" Qui-Gon meant Maul when he said 'he' and the men before him knew that.
"You fought us and managed to kill one of us, however you were no match for three Nabooan soldiers." Bruck smiled and looked to Anakin Skywalker allowing him to speak.
"You wanted to be free of the army life, General, and now you are." Anakin hesitated, unsure how to ask what was on his mind. "What about Maul? Who will oppose him if you do not? There is still a way if you will stand for us. If you decide to fight him, you need to get to Theed and do it publicly, the Blood Right has almost been forgotten but is still perfectly legal. The people and the army will side with you, they just need someone to support."
"Take the horse, General and be on your way." Bruck smiled. "I have the feeling we will meet again in Theed"
"Indeed we might." Without looking back, Qui-Gon Jinn mounted his horse and rode off, heading for Naboo's capital.
"You think he'll make it?" Garen looked at Bruck and Anakin waiting for an answer. When Anakin finally spoke, he said,
"Of course, it may take some time alone, but he'll get there." And they too mounted up and rode off back to the army camp. They would report to Emperor Maul that the traitor was dead and that he had unfortunately managed to kill Sergeant Jay Binks before he was executed.
Mos Espa, Tatooine.
It was not the infamous coliseum of Theed, but the arena of Tatooine was still a great place of battle, for the legendary Jedi from the northlands of Coruscant fought there. The stands were full, as always, and as ever, they created a great din, cheering the warm up fights. They cheered the blood, they cheered the violence and they cheered the death.
There was no one on the arena floor and the crowd for once sat in almost complete silence as they waited for their favourite Jedi fighter. Below them, under the stands on which they sat, the great warrior they waited for stood, head bowed, eyes closed, preparing himself for what awaited. The gate opened and he stepped out into the sunshine. The crowd erupted into cheers at the sight of the lean fighter. To look at him, people who had never watched him fight would always bet on the opposition. He was not particularly tall or muscular, except what they couldn't see when he stood still awaiting the coming battle was that he was quick, athletic and skilful. He was also intelligent; he studied his opponents and he won.
Other Jedi owners brought their fighters to Tatooine to face the man from Coruscant, but all left defeated. He was a champion and that would only end when he died.
From across the arena, a man stepped out, dressed in battle armour; his face hidden by his helmet, he held a mace and a shield. He was bigger than the famous fighter. He moved forward immediately; the champion stood still. He covered half the distance and the Jedi from Coruscant stood still. He lifted his mace and the smaller fighter stood still. The mace flew through the air and the other Jedi finally moved. The mace missed his head by an inch but the momentum by which it was hurled carried its wielder forward. The challenger's arm was grazed by the champion's sword, however, the killing blow did not come; instead, the Jedi stood still, waiting.
The challenger attacked again, this time more wary of his opponent; he would have been dead already if not for the other man's sense of honour. He fought with all his strength against the legendary fighter. He rained blow after blow down on the other Jedi and his attacks were met time and time again by the man's shield. The crowed cheered with each attack, roared with each new tactic and as time went on they became even hungrier for blood.
The challenger became immersed in the feeling of fighting before a crowd within the arena and for a split second he dreamed of the coliseum in Theed.
One moment his opponent was in front of him and the next he moved. The challenging Jedi felt a warm wetness spread out over his chest. He looked down to see blood pouring from a gash and spilling into the sand. He looked at the other Jedi, who now stood back once again not moving. He was surprised to feel so little pain; the stroke had been quick and sure. Just before he collapsed, never to stand again, a flash of admiration past through his mind for the man who had defeated him.
That final move must have been something to watch. His final thoughts as a warrior was to wish he had witnessed the Jedi who had ended his life fight. He would have liked to have watched from the stands the Coruscantian's skill. No wonder he was the Tatooine champion.
The Jedi who remained standing did not rejoice at his kill or his win while the crowd cheered and collected their winnings. He turned and headed back to the gate. He had had a challenge with that fight, and one thing that most people did not know about the Jedi from Coruscant, was that he loved a challenge.
The champion returned to his place below the stands in the dusty, dark, musty corner of a cell. He sat once more and closed his eyes. The others had long since given up talking to him after a fight; he always returned to sit in practiced silence, however there would always be one who would try and intrude upon his meditation, someone new, some fan or sometimes his owner.
"You were amazing," the voice said. "Will you teach me?" the Jedi did not move. It did not matter who the voice belonged to, no one would rouse him until he was ready. "Ben?"
Rating: R
Category: AU
Summery:The true Emperor of Naboo ends up fighting in the arena where he meets the most famous of the Jedi Warriors.
Note: This is a Star Wars TPM story based on an idea after watching Gladiator. The story follows a similer plot up until chapter 2.
Disclaimer SW: Not mine. George Lucus owns them (lucky him) I make no money from them
Feedback: Please tell me what you think.
Thanks to: Mady for betaing
Part One
Chapter 1 - General
The battle lines were drawn, the fight inevitable. General Qui-Gon Jinn strolled down the centre line of his men, returning salutes and smiles; his thoughts were elsewhere though, to what lay ahead. This would be the final battle of the war, his last fight. He had spent his life at war with the conquered lands of the Naboo Empire. He fought for the Empire, its people and for his Emperor. Finally the resistance to their rule was fading and Qui-Gon was glad. A life of war had made him a hard man, but made his longing for someone to love stronger. The only thing that had changed was that he could hide the longing from others and sometimes forget.
The Nabooan soldiers were gathered on a slight incline, with mud, stone and pikes creating a barrier between them and the enemy. Archers stood ready to let flamed arrows fly free, catapults pushed back were poised to throw a hail of fire. The enemy was not yet in sight, nevertheless they were coming.
Qui-Gon gathered his company of men and set off at a canter to circle around the barbarian attackers. Caught between two sides, they would fall quickly. The Nabooan soldiers formed a line ready to charge when their general gave the word.
"This is it, lads, our final push. After it is over we can finally go home." His words were met with a cheer and the general smiled before nodding to his lieutenant, who raised his bow and set free a flaming arrow. It rose above the tree line and was the sign to those on the hillside that the general was ready and was about to push forward. It was also a sign to those at his side that it was time to begin. As one the horses leaped forward, charging towards the enemy that was already engaged in battle at the hill.
Emperor Yoda watched from behind the front line, safely surrounded by his guard. A soft snow began to fall and the sadness in the old emperor's eyes seemed to grow. He knew General Jinn would win, he always did; it was a sound plan with talented warriors to back it up yet it was still a fight, a battlefield that would end as a river of blood scattered with bodies lying face down in the mud.
The general burst from the trees surprising the enemy, and the tide of battle changed not in direction but intensity. They would still win, except now it would be a slaughter. The barbarians never surrender; they would rather die than bow to the Emperor of Naboo, and today that would happen.
Fires raged and the ground became slick with blood and then the world was silent, holding its breath as the victory was won and the victors looked about them to see what they had accomplished. The soldiers did not cheer their victory because they knew in war, no one wins you, either live or die. Many lived many did not and those who had not survived must be remembered. Slowly the world began to break through again. The wounded were taken to a place to be cared for, the dead were burnt, as was tradition, with even the enemy were granted this. They had died bravely and Qui-Gon Jinn would not have them punished any more for what had happened that day.
The war was over and it was time to go home.
The tent was dark and smoky, as Qui-Gon knelt before a bowl of hot, soapy water his servant Panaka had prepared. It was a relief to wash off the tell tale signs of war. Blood, sweat and mud were splashed on his body, his skin seemed ivory white beneath their rich colours. He was born in Naboo but he had spent too many years in the northern lands fighting, so that the warm glow of sunshine that had soaked into his skin had bled away. The sun here was cold and its light white.
Qui-Gon Jinn, General of the Nabooan army, Emperor Yoda's nephew, a nobleman and the third in line for the throne. His parents had died when he was young and he had no siblings, so Yoda had become like a father to him and his sons, Maul and Xanatos, his brothers.
He had lived his life in luxury until he had chosen to join the army at eighteen. He quickly became an accomplished soldier and with no assistance from the Emperor, had risen through the ranks quickly. He had the respect of the poor and the rich, his soldiers and other officers. Something was still lacking though and whatever it was remained elusive to the General.
Maul married a beautiful Dantooine woman with plenty of money in the hope of producing legitimate heirs. Maul had not married for love but because he wanted power and above all else, he wanted to be the next emperor.
Xanatos was to marry a young noblewoman named Amidala Naberrie when she became of age in a years time and in contrast to Maul, they were marrying for love. Xanatos had a poet's heart and Amidala had a compassionate soul. They would be happy together.
"Sir?"
"Yes, Panaka?"
"The Emperor is asking for you."
"Help me get dressed." Qui-Gon's voice was tired and his movements slow, however his Emperor called and nothing on earth could stop him from going to him. Panaka had been with Qui-Gon for many years; he was loyal, a confidant and a friend. He took great care in helping his master to dress in clean tunics and to don a heavy winter cloak. Before leaving, the General squeezed his servant's hand in thanks and went to his Emperor.
Panaka sat with his master's armour and boots and began to clean them. He wished he could clean his master of the blood but all he could do was remove all signs of it so that's what he did, taking time and patiences in his work.
The officers of the Nabooan army engaged themselves in a feast, drinking, talking and laughing. A few pleaded for the General to stay, others greeted him warmly, although they did not interrupt his course. Beyond lay the entrance to the Emperor's tent and the elderly man himself.
"My Emperor." Qui-Gon knelt before his ruler and bowed his head showing his respect for the other man's position and accomplishments.
"Stand, Qui-Gon, I wish us to talk as equals now." The first time Yoda had said these words to the General he had protested, however the Emperor had insisted, as over the years, General Jinn had performed such feats to justify Yoda's words. "My son, Maul is coming. He will arrive tomorrow. He expects me to appoint him my heir but I have decided not to do what he all but demands of me."
Yoda seemed to shrink before Qui-Gon's eyes; he seemed suddenly very tired and old.
"I love my son, nevertheless he can not be allowed to rule."
"Xan then? I would serve him as loyally as I have served you."
"I do not doubt it, Qui-Gon, but Xan has no wish to be Emperor, too in love he is."
"Then who?" Qui-Gon was genuinely puzzled for he could think of no one else.
"You, Qui-Gon. No one would argue my decision for after my sons you are next in line, blood wise. You are a respected man and you know the value of peace." Yoda shuffled over to the large bed, which was covered in animal furs and woollen blankets in an effort to keep the dying man warm. "Maul can not be ruler. He is a born warrior but he has not seen war as we have. He sees my victories over others as a sign of Naboo's strength, when all I see is the blood."
A sigh escaped the dry cracked lips and turned into a wheezing cough.
"I did all that I've done to keep my people safe and now it is over, though for Maul it will never be over. He would find someone else to fight even if they came from within. That is why I must betray my son now, to continue to uphold the promise I made to Naboo. I vowed to keep them safe, Qui-Gon and despite by son's desires, I will hurt him for them. You are a good man and you would make a splendid Emperor."
Qui-Gon could not speak, he did not wish to be ruler and he didn't want Maul to be bitter towards, him yet in his heart he knew what Yoda said was true. Naboo needed someone strong and that someone was not Maul.
"Do not protest now, think on it first, I implore you, and whatever you decide I will accept."
"Yes, Lord," was all Qui-Gon could say.
"Xan will be coming with his brother. He's been looking forward to seeing you."
"The feeling is mutual."
"I'm glad that you found a family with us. Go now and let me rest before I must greet my young sons." The Emperor smiled as he talked of his family with General Jinn smiling in return, glad his leader had some joy in his life.
"Goodnight, My Emperor." He left, once more among the feasting officers, and this time he did allow them to draw him in, taking his own pleasure in the food, drink and women who had arrived while he'd been with Yoda.
"Father," Prince Xanatos called out, happy to see his father again. When the Emperor had left on the campaign it wasn't known if he would come home alive. He was ill and was fading fast. Yoda held his son in a loose embrace, yet holding him close. Maul watched from a few paces back, reserved as always. When Yoda finally turned to him, he did not embrace him but bowed, saying,
"My Lord."
"Xanatos, go find Qui-Gon, he has been looking forward to seeing you. I must have a word with your brother."
"Of course, father." The younger prince did bow then, continuing to smile as he did so. "I shall see you later." He left the tent with a bounce in his step in search of his adopted brother.
"Sit, Maul. It makes me tired watching you."
"As you wish." Maul had dark hair like his brother but instead of allowing it to grow long like Xanatos, he cut it off short. He voice was low and gravelly and was a voice that put fear into his enemies. It never held any emotion, just like his eyes that were so brown and so dark they appeared black. The only glimmer occasionally seen within them was contempt. Maul's face was a mask; who knew what lay behind it?
"You have won, My Lord. You must be very proud."
"Yes, I suppose I must." Yoda shrugged. "But it is the future of the Empire I wish to disgust with you not my victory. I grow old and weak and this war has taken its toll on me also. I know my reign will soon end which has made me think long and hard about who shall rule my people after I am gone." Yoda watched Maul. The man who was his son gave nothing away of his own feelings, but the Emperor fancied he saw Maul's interest and attention peak. "I love you, my son. Despite the abhorrence you hold for me I will not, however allow you to rule Naboo."
"What?" The mask cracked and anger showed beneath it. "Who then, if not me?"
"Your brother."
"Xan?"
"Qui-Gon. I don't do this to hurt you, Maul. It is time for peace and I know Qui-Gon will see it done."
"No, you can't."
"It is already done." Yoda leaned back and close his eyes. "I am tired now, we can discuss this more later if you wish." They never did though. As silently as a phantom, Maul moved over to his father, and taking a cushion from one of the chairs, he held it down over his father's face until the struggling ceased and the old man's breathing stopped.
"Hello General." Qui-Gon turned to find a tall slender man in the doorway to his tent. The young man had raven hair and although he was silhouetted, Qui-Gon knew steel blue eyes were gazing at him.
"Lord Xanatos." The General bowed low to the son of the Emperor of Naboo. "Greetings."
"To you, also." Xanatos began to smile, no longer able to keep up the act. In the past this game could go on some while with neither breaking out into laughter. Today was different however, for they had not seen each other for a long time and each was relieved to see the other. "Come here, Brother and welcome me properly."
The General of the most powerful army the world had ever seen, chuckled.
"You never were much of an actor, Xan." He gave the younger man an affectionate squeeze and patted him on the back.
"I am a poet, not an actor."
"How was your journey?" Qui-Gon deliberately avoided the poet/actor comment, knowing if he entered into that conversation now he'd never get to hear of his brother's life since he'd last seen him.
"Fine, fine but Maul is not much of a conversationalist as you well know. It was more or less a one sided conversation the whole way from Theed."
"Xan, you can talk enough for six people and you enjoy talking." Qui-Gon turned to the jug of wine on his papers as he spoke, wishing he could see Xan's face when he made the comment but knowing if he did he'd be unable to keep a straight face.
"Are you saying I like the sound of my own voice?" the prince asked suspiciously as he took the glass of wine Qui-Gon offered him.
"Of course not. You are a poet and your gift is words."
"Nice recovery."
"Thank you." General Jinn gestured to one of the chairs and Xan sat down with his drink. "Have you seen your father yet?"
"Only briefly. He wanted to talk to Maul."
"Ah."
"He's already asked you then?"
"Excuse me?" Qui-Gon almost chocked on his wine, he'd not been expecting that.
"About being our next Emperor." A smile tugged at Qui-Gon's lips threatening to spill out. With an effort not to appear accusing, he asked,
"How do you know?"
"I may not want any power, but that doesn't mean I am stupid and don't understand what is happening around me."
"Sorry," Qui-Gon's smile grew though. "I wasn't suggesting you were stupid. You are, however, deliriously in love and we know how that can effect the brain."
"Will you do it?" Prince Xanatos refused to be distracted from the conversation.
"I don't know, Xan." The General's shoulders sagged as if carrying the burden of his choice physically. "Could I be a good leader?"
"You already are, Qui-Gon."
"No, Xan. I'm a good officer, meaning I can lead soldiers and that is not the same."
"You are a fair man, Qui-Gon Jinn and that is all the people ask. You have compassion and are still able to deliver just punishment without being harsh. You are a good choice."
"You are all of these things, too, so why can't you do it?" It wasn't really a serious question, Xanatos had always made it clear he wanted nothing to do with government, but today Qui-Gon needed an argument.
"I don't want to," Xanatos said. It was the same answer he always gave when asked.
"Neither do I."
"You are considering it though, at least more than I would."
"Did he send you to talk me into it?" Qui-Gon looked at his brother, a lingering sadness creped into his blue eyes.
"No, he does not even know that I know. Neither does Maul and I'd rather you didn't mention it, either."
"Don't want to be caught snooping, huh?" Humour had returned to the General a little.
"No, and I wasn't snooping anyway."
"Yes, you were."
"No, I wasn't."
Yes, you were."
"No, I wasn't and I am the Emperor's son." Qui-Gon felt sure there should be a rule on the number of times you can win an argument with 'I am the Emperor's son'. He didn't say that though, instead he decided to try and neutralise Xanatos' trump card.
"Sorry Xan, I've seen you fall face first into the mud after drinking too much too many times to revere you. The image of the powerful emperor's son is totally lost on me. Lord Xanatos."
"General Jinn?" Both the seated men turned in surprise to the sudden appearance of Bruck, one of the foot soldiers in the camped army.
"Yes, Bruck?" Qui-Gon asked.
"Your presence is required in the Emperor's tent. Immediately." Bruck didn't leave after delivering his message, instead he waited for the two older men to stand, put their cloaks on and then escort them across the camp to the large canvas structure, which stood on slightly higher ground.
The feast from the night before had left its mark. The ground had become a muddy maze of footprints; the air was filled with the smell faintly of spilled wine and dropped food. The tables were gone and the fires extinguished. The air was cold and bitter and still, perhaps in muted testament to what awaited the brothers in their Emperor's and father's sleeping chamber. Their pace slowed as if to postpone the inevitable, to try and undo what their hearts told them had happened.
They entered the tent and stopped. The only movement was their breathing and the tears that began to trickle down Xanatos' cheeks. The Prince was still, but compared to Qui-Gon, Xanatos was radiant with life.
The Nabooan General's face had drained of its normal colour and seemed almost grey, his eyes stared unseeing, his lips were slightly parted, only letting through the tiniest draft of air as he breathed.
"Yoda, ruler of Naboo, leader of the greatest army seen and Emperor of lands beyond Naboo's borders, lay dead, his pale eyes lifeless and half closed. Kneeling by his bedside was Maul, son to a lost father and brother to the two men who had just entered.
"Brothers, come in, kneel with me, pray with me, morurn with me." Without another word the three brothers knelt and wept for the great man who had left them for a place unknown.
A day passed after the Emperor's death before Maul called Qui-Gon to him.
"Qui-Gon, before my father died he appointed me Emperor, for he knew his time was coming and wanted his people in strong hands. You are not my brother by blood, but I think of you as such. Kneel before your Emperor, Qui-Gon and I will show you favour as my father did before me." Xanatos watched his brothers and could not believe the words Maul said.
"But..." Xanatos was interrupted by Qui-Gon. The General could afford to make and enemy of Maul, Prince Xanatos could not.
"I will not bow to you Maul, for I wish to find a home, not simply survive in an army doing your bidding. Yoda did not want the wars to continue, which is why he hesitated in naming you. I will not stay and I will not fight battles he did not want." General Jinn had to be careful; he did not want Maul to know that Xanatos and himself already knew of the Emperor's real wishes. He did need to show that he did not trust the self appointed Emperor, nor would he support him politically or with his blade.
"You will not serve me?" It wasn't really a question, it was a chance for Qui-Gon to back down, and it was a chance the General would not take.
"No, I will not."
"Then you are dismissed." Qui-Gon bowed slightly and left the tent.
"Qui-Gon?" He heard Xanatos calling after him. "Wait!" But he did not wait, he did not stop until he was once again in his own tent.
"Where are you going?" Xanatos had followed him in but Qui-Gon did not answer. "Why did you not tell him we knew what my father really wanted?"
"Because he would have killed me."
"Then I shall tell him."
"He would not hesitate to kill you also, Xan. I can look after myself, but you have Dala to consider and if you are still at his side, then I know someone is talking to him with a cool head."
"You are meant to be Emperor."
"That is treason, Xan." A sad smile crossed the older man's lips.
"It's what the Emperor wanted."
"Go, be at your brother's side, I have lost favour with the royal house." Xanatos looked long and hard at the man he considered his brother just as much as Maul. When he spoke it was to once again object.
"Qui-Gon..." He didn't get to finish because the General cut him off.
"At least I'm alive, Xan." It was true and difficult to argue with.
"I love you, my brother and I would have followed you freely if you were our Emperor." Xanatos embraced Qui-Gon and left, not daring to say any more or to look back.
"Panaka, you should go, too, you need not be connected to all this." The General had not taken his eyes of the retreating back off the prince but he knew his servant was there, he had known he was there the whole time.
Captain Panaka stepped out from the shadows.
"He may still kill you, General."
"Yes, I know."
"I will see you again, General."
"Yes, I know that, too. You have always been loyal and a true friend and it is because of that friendship that I ask you to go. I need you to keep your eye on Maul and make sure his brother and Lady Amidala are safe."
"I will do as you ask." And then he, too, was gone from the General's tent, leaving Qui-Gon alone to wait untill morning to see if he would be allowed to live in exile or to die a traitor's death.
They came for him as the world once again grew light. They entered his tent without permission and found him standing, ready to be taken away. He did not struggle and he did not fight them. A horse was brought to him and he mounted it without hesitation. The soldiers led Qui-Gon out of the camp. The world passed them by, the snow covered ground, the evergreen trees and the few birds and animals already awake. Qui-Gon took little notice of these things, instead sinking into himself, calming his mind and his heart. Preparing. They rode until the lead soldier decided they were far enough away from the camp before stopping and pulling the silent prisoner from his horse.
"Kneel," one of them ordered, which one, Qui-Gon was not sure.
A man who he had never seen before, one of Maul's men, positioned himself behind Qui-Gon, his sword ready to strike. The kneeling figure tensed waiting for the blow that never came. There was a scuffle and then a body fell beside him, with the face of Maul's soldier staring at him. A hand came into his sight, reaching out to him, helping him to stand. Bruck Chun, Garen Muln and Anakin Skywalker stood before him.
"Captain Panaka said he would watch Maul." Bruck spoke words Qui-Gon already knew but it was a sign that the three soldiers were there with their Captain's knowledge.
"Why?" Qui-Gon managed to ask.
"Because you are our General."
"What will you tell him?" Qui-Gon meant Maul when he said 'he' and the men before him knew that.
"You fought us and managed to kill one of us, however you were no match for three Nabooan soldiers." Bruck smiled and looked to Anakin Skywalker allowing him to speak.
"You wanted to be free of the army life, General, and now you are." Anakin hesitated, unsure how to ask what was on his mind. "What about Maul? Who will oppose him if you do not? There is still a way if you will stand for us. If you decide to fight him, you need to get to Theed and do it publicly, the Blood Right has almost been forgotten but is still perfectly legal. The people and the army will side with you, they just need someone to support."
"Take the horse, General and be on your way." Bruck smiled. "I have the feeling we will meet again in Theed"
"Indeed we might." Without looking back, Qui-Gon Jinn mounted his horse and rode off, heading for Naboo's capital.
"You think he'll make it?" Garen looked at Bruck and Anakin waiting for an answer. When Anakin finally spoke, he said,
"Of course, it may take some time alone, but he'll get there." And they too mounted up and rode off back to the army camp. They would report to Emperor Maul that the traitor was dead and that he had unfortunately managed to kill Sergeant Jay Binks before he was executed.
Mos Espa, Tatooine.
It was not the infamous coliseum of Theed, but the arena of Tatooine was still a great place of battle, for the legendary Jedi from the northlands of Coruscant fought there. The stands were full, as always, and as ever, they created a great din, cheering the warm up fights. They cheered the blood, they cheered the violence and they cheered the death.
There was no one on the arena floor and the crowd for once sat in almost complete silence as they waited for their favourite Jedi fighter. Below them, under the stands on which they sat, the great warrior they waited for stood, head bowed, eyes closed, preparing himself for what awaited. The gate opened and he stepped out into the sunshine. The crowd erupted into cheers at the sight of the lean fighter. To look at him, people who had never watched him fight would always bet on the opposition. He was not particularly tall or muscular, except what they couldn't see when he stood still awaiting the coming battle was that he was quick, athletic and skilful. He was also intelligent; he studied his opponents and he won.
Other Jedi owners brought their fighters to Tatooine to face the man from Coruscant, but all left defeated. He was a champion and that would only end when he died.
From across the arena, a man stepped out, dressed in battle armour; his face hidden by his helmet, he held a mace and a shield. He was bigger than the famous fighter. He moved forward immediately; the champion stood still. He covered half the distance and the Jedi from Coruscant stood still. He lifted his mace and the smaller fighter stood still. The mace flew through the air and the other Jedi finally moved. The mace missed his head by an inch but the momentum by which it was hurled carried its wielder forward. The challenger's arm was grazed by the champion's sword, however, the killing blow did not come; instead, the Jedi stood still, waiting.
The challenger attacked again, this time more wary of his opponent; he would have been dead already if not for the other man's sense of honour. He fought with all his strength against the legendary fighter. He rained blow after blow down on the other Jedi and his attacks were met time and time again by the man's shield. The crowed cheered with each attack, roared with each new tactic and as time went on they became even hungrier for blood.
The challenger became immersed in the feeling of fighting before a crowd within the arena and for a split second he dreamed of the coliseum in Theed.
One moment his opponent was in front of him and the next he moved. The challenging Jedi felt a warm wetness spread out over his chest. He looked down to see blood pouring from a gash and spilling into the sand. He looked at the other Jedi, who now stood back once again not moving. He was surprised to feel so little pain; the stroke had been quick and sure. Just before he collapsed, never to stand again, a flash of admiration past through his mind for the man who had defeated him.
That final move must have been something to watch. His final thoughts as a warrior was to wish he had witnessed the Jedi who had ended his life fight. He would have liked to have watched from the stands the Coruscantian's skill. No wonder he was the Tatooine champion.
The Jedi who remained standing did not rejoice at his kill or his win while the crowd cheered and collected their winnings. He turned and headed back to the gate. He had had a challenge with that fight, and one thing that most people did not know about the Jedi from Coruscant, was that he loved a challenge.
The champion returned to his place below the stands in the dusty, dark, musty corner of a cell. He sat once more and closed his eyes. The others had long since given up talking to him after a fight; he always returned to sit in practiced silence, however there would always be one who would try and intrude upon his meditation, someone new, some fan or sometimes his owner.
"You were amazing," the voice said. "Will you teach me?" the Jedi did not move. It did not matter who the voice belonged to, no one would rouse him until he was ready. "Ben?"