Chapter Forty Nine:
The first thing she was aware of was that the darkness had turned to gray, and she could hear a steady beeping sound. On and on it went, uninterrupted, until she could focus on nothing else. It nearly drove her subconscious mind insane.
After the gray and sounds came the tingling, heavy feeling of her entire back half. She could feel that she lay on something pliable, but it wasn't soft anymore to her numbed nerves. No; after however long she'd been there, she might as well have been lying on a metal slab.
A deep breath refreshed her lungs, and she stirred, feeling stiff muscles respond slowly. Sluggishly, she worked to wake fully, something that took what felt like forever. She finally did achieve some lift to her eyelids, and as soon as light hit her eyes, she hissed softly before shutting them again.
She allowed a few moments, and then tried again to open her eyes. This time, she was able to endure the stabbing lights, though her vision was indistinct. She allowed her eyes to roam, waiting for her eyesight to clear enough so that she could make out where she was. When she had seen all there was to see within her field of vision, she tried turning her head to view more.
She was in a medical room, though there was no way for her to know where that medical room was, or who had been tending to her. She didn't know if she'd set off some sensor, if she was being monitored visually, or if there was a routine the one tending to her was following. But the door opened, and with it came the fear of the unknown.
Her first thought was that Vexa had gotten her back after all, and was now going to unleash her fury on her acolyte before sending her to revisit her training.
The medic stopped in surprise when she saw that the patient was awake, and then she was rushing forward, though she did contact someone via a comlink.
"You're awake!" the nurse cried with obvious relief. "I was beginning to wonder if you ever would."
Samanda frowned. Why wouldn't she have awakened?
Seeing the teen's confusion, the nurse offered a sympathetic look. "You are lucky to be alive. That stab wound was pretty close to some vital organs."
And with that one sentence, it all came rushing back to Samanda, and she shifted in increased fear.
"Who are you?" Samanda asked, wincing to hear that her voice rough with disuse.
"I think the better question is who are you?" a new voice replied.
Samanda looked to the door as the nurse came forward to begin taking Samanda's vitals. A male Harch with snow-white fur filled the doorway, imposing in all his military grandeur. Samanda couldn't help but stare. She had never seen a Harch in person. She had read about some prominent members of the species, but this was the first time she had met one.
And the first thing she could think of was that it was good that she wasn't afraid of arachnids.
The nurse finished her work and turned to the Harch. "She is steady, Admiral, and her vitals strong."
"Thank you, Nurse Heather," the man— who was apparently an admiral— replied. He moved aside as the woman approached the door to leave; nodding politely a she passed him.
Once it was just them, the Harch approached Samanda. "My name is Admiral Giann Igeal. What is your name?"
She considered playing hard-to-get, but determined that such a response would not get her the help she needed. She would have to work with them, without allowing them to walk all over her.
"My name is Samanda Yvyyn," she replied softly.
"Samanda." The man seemed to test that name on his tongue before he accepted it. "You are in an interesting position, young lady. I would like to know how a pair of teenagers infiltrated a secret military facility. For that matter, how did you even know it was there?"
Samanda, utilizing her training, held her ground. "I am willing to talk... but only to one person."
The Harch folded his many arms. "Oh, and who would that be?"
"The man who helped me in the corridor," Samanda replied. "I don't know who he was, but I do remember that he tried to help me. I will speak with him." She hesitated. "Or if he isn't available... Luke Skywalker will do."
The man clacked his front jaws. "That is a rather tall order."
Samanda was adamant. "Those are my current terms. If you want my cooperation, that's how you will get it." She softened. "But thank you for healing me."
The admiral studied her for a long minute before he sighed. "I will see what I can arrange. In the mean time, I would ask that you at least write down what you know. You have my word that only the two you named will take it from you."
"I will... consider that," Samanda said. "But how do I know I can trust you?"
The Harch gave her a look. "You are the one who infiltrated my base. You are lucky you are not in shackles right now. I am willing to be patient, but if you prove difficult, that will change swiftly."
Samanda nodded once, used to how Vexa ran things. "I can live with that."
"Good. Get some rest. Once you are strong enough, you will go to a holding cell." He lifted a hand. "I will make sure you are comfortable as long as you cooperate."
"Alright."
"Good day for now, Samanda." Igeal dipped his head formally and departed, leaving Samanda to her thoughts.
She was nervous, especially at the prospect of meeting Luke Skywalker, the most well-known and formidable Jedi Master in the entire galaxy. But of all people he could truly help her. If he would agree to.
Oh, how she hoped he would.
00000
"Ignis, can I ask you something?" Ben said as he and the elder boy walked toward the cafeteria.
Morning classes had just finished, and all the students now had a full hour to themselves to eat and relax before afternoon lessons began. Ben had been one of the first students out of his own classroom, and he'd made it a point to find Ignis. To Ben's delight, it had been rather easy; as Ignis, Shmi and Luke had been using a classroom on the same level as Ben's final morning class.
Luke had greeted Ben warmly upon seeing him also, but had excused himself to attend a collection of annual monthly meetings at the Senate building. So, Ignis and Shmi had been given the rest of the day off, so long as they remained at the Temple.
Luke had given Ignis a stern warning not to wander out into town, and Ignis had only nodded, a small smile in place. Ben, amused by Ignis' antics, had smiled also. Luke, though he'd been firm, had also had a twinkle in his eyes as he left the two boys.
Ben and Ignis were now en-route to lunch.
"What is it Ben?" Ignis replied.
"I already asked Dad, and he okayed it, so it's up to you now." Ben began, feeling Ignis' curiosity peak. "Would you be willing to tutor me in more Force skills?"
Ignis blinked in mild surprise. "Like what?"
"Well, I'd really like to keep working on lightsaber techniques with you, but maybe other things like levitation, or some simple split-attention exercises? And I could really use a little advice on telekinesis. Emry's much better at that than I am."
Ignis considered the boy's request, wondering if this really was something he could do. Ignis didn't see how it could hurt, and yet he had the slight fear that if he agreed to this, Ben and he would grow closer... and Ignis had been trying to avoid that. He still was a little leery about having to say a lot of hard goodbyes later on. But at the same time, Ignis knew they had already grown closer, and Ignis had decided to be less... stubborn, hadn't he?. And maybe, by doing this, Ignis could better prepare Ben against the eventual clash between the Skywalkers and Vexa Wran.
"Sure, I can do that." Ignis agreed at last. "When do you want to start?"
"How about after lunch?" Ben suggested. "I don't really eat much at lunch anyway."
"Neither do I," Ignis said, holding the door open for Ben once they'd arrived.
Ben grinned and the two boys found a place in line, waiting patiently their turn to grab food. Ben spied Emry closer to the front and saw her talking with a girl her age. Said girl spied Ben looking their way and smiled flirtatiously at him, waving brashly.
Ben blushed and looked away. Ignis, seeing the exchange, wisely kept any humor to himself.
In an attempt to distract Ben, Ignis struck up a conversation. "So how did morning classes go?"
"Good, I guess," Ben said with a shrug. "The same as always. Although, we've started a new section in history, so that's interesting."
"Oh?" Ignis pressed. "What are you doing now?"
"We are studying the time from the fall of the Republic to the end of the Empire at the moment," Ben answered, though he looked a little nervous. "A few of the kids gave me odd looks. It's like, because my family was part of much of that conflict, I am special."
Ignis understood. "Well, the Skywalker name was prominent throughout the Clone Wars, and reemerged again after the Battle of Yavin. Your Aunt was also well-known in the Rebel Alliance. So... yeah. But you know what, just focus on your studies. If others have problems, those belong to them."
"Yeah, I know," Ben muttered, taking a tray now as they arrived at the counter. "But I hate being the center of attention like that."
"You and me both," Ignis said, taking his own tray studying the available food choices. He settled for a small salad and a drink.
Ben came away with a sandwich and fruit, then realized he'd forgotten a drink, and went back to the counter for one. The boys found seats easily and began their meal. Ben, eager to start the tutoring, ate as quickly as possible without choking.
Ignis lifted a brow, but did finish soon after Ben had. The two cleaned up their places and left the table. After depositing their garbage and trays, they left the hall and Ben looked to Ignis.
"Can we do more lightsaber practice first please?"
Ignis considered. "I don't see why not."
"Great!" Ben replied, though he only then seemed to recall something, and his face fell slightly. "Oh, but the practice sabers are locked up whenever there is no instructor in the room."
"You can borrow mine." Ignis assured the boy, not yet ready to let Ben know that Ignis could access the locked sabers. "We'll talk with Luke about getting you one for after-hours."
Ben looked equal parts eager and nervous. "I don't think Dad is going to like me working with a full-strength saber just yet. Mom either for that matter."
Ignis nodded. "My blade can be adjusted to where it doesn't do more than sting."
"Okay." Ben agreed.
They found their room and Ignis pulled his lightsaber from his belt. He first turned a dial, and then handed the weapon to the younger boy. Ben took it, looking to Ignis for instruction.
"Why don't we start with you showing me what you can already do?" Ignis suggested.
"It's been a while since I last helped you, after all."
"Alright." Ben nodded, taking up a ready stance and beginning.
00000
The room was far from cozy, but that didn't mean much to the group gathered there. Besides, it was a temporary stay. The comrades chatted amongst themselves while they waited to hear why they had all been called to this place.
"I hope Kavis doesn't think we are now his lackeys just because his father said he was his successor." One Mandalorian man— Orin— whispered.
His fellow nodded his agreement. "Yes. That position must be earned. And all he has done is try to get dirt on some other teen that had nothing to do with what happened back at base."
"Well, I am willing to give him a chance," a third murmured, "for Saul's sake. May he rest in peace."
"Indeed." the second said, and the trio fell silent for a moment out of respect for their deceased leader.
Orin recalled their return to base, and finding all dead but Kavis. They had been horrified, especially when they saw what had become of Saul. It hadn't taken long for horror to become outrage, and they were now thirsty for revenge.
"Brothers," Kavis said as he appeared at the front of the room. "Thank you for coming."
"What is this about?" a Mandalorian near the front asked impatiently. "We don't work for you."
Kavis dipped his head. "I know many of you left after my father and the rest of our friends perished. They did so at the hands of Vexa Wran and her acolytes."
There were many muttered curses at that pronouncement, but no one hindered Kavis as he continued.
"I have information on one such acolyte. He is currently amongst the Skywalker family, and I believe he is there for evil purposes."
"Why do we care about the Skywalkers?" someone asked. "If they have a rat in their midst, let them deal with it."
"Do you not want revenge on Vexa?" Kavis challenged.
"Aye, but this runt you speak of is not what I had in mind." The man retorted acerbically. "I want the devil woman herself to pay!"
"The likelihood of any one of us getting close enough to Vexa Wran to even try and striking a blow is depressingly low." Kavis pointed out. "Stubborn we may be, but even you must admit that."
The man huffed indignantly, but nor did he object.
"I know we can deal this woman a blow if we take this boy out," Kavis said, eyeing the small group. "He is one of her best minions, and she has invested years into him."
Orin narrowed his eyes. "Are you sure this isn't just your personal vendetta against this boy? I know a little of your history with a certain dark-haired boy. This must be the true reason for you wanting this."
Kavis sighed. "I do want this, yes. But I also know that many of you want to deal some sort of blow to Vexa. Well, this is how we start. We can take Ignis out of the picture, help the Skywalkers, and deal a blow to Vexa."
There were murmurings around the room and finally a hand went up. "I will do this one thing with you out of respect for your father. Then I am out."
Kavis thinned his lips, but then nodded. Hardly anyone had stayed with him after the fiasco at their base. Not that there had been many left after the attack. Still, the ones who had been away at the time had not wanted to follow Kavis. He understood why, and was a little relieved. But still, he didn't quite know what to do with his life now.
One thing he knew for certain was that he could not, in good conscience, let Ignis remain with the Skywalker family to bring them harm. Kavis had no true love for them, but he was certain the more he thought about it, that Luke didn't actually know who Ignis really was. Who would want Ignis around if they really did know him? Kavis knew that Luke Skywalker was known for being compassionate and patient, but even he had to have his limits.
Kavis refocused on the small group. "That is all I ask of each of you. Please help me with this one mission and I will not ask anything else of you. You have my word."
Everyone contemplated, and Orin sighed, lifting his hand. "I will help."
It took a few moments, but eventually all hands were up and Kavis nodded once. "Thank you. Now; let me share with you my initial plan..."
00000
Shmi, feeling on edge, wandered through the Jedi Temple. She, Ignis and Luke had completed another round of lessons, these ones only lightly physical. This was in part due to the fact that Ignis' bandage had been removed. Shmi knew Ignis was happy about that, though she hadn't once heard the young man complain about the bandaging. No, Ignis had taken everything in stride, and she was glad for that.
Both she and Ignis were getting restless, however, and were eager to do more than just sit around. Luke and Mara were both amused with this, and yet were insistent that the teens still try to take it easy.
Anya, Shmi had been glad to hear, had gone to the Skywalker home for her first lesson with Mara. Naturally, the girl had also taken Bo, so Shmi couldn't visit with her friend or her animal companion. Shmi was slightly saddened by this, though she didn't begrudge Anya anything.
Shmi was troubled, however, her thoughts going back to yet another conversation that had taken place between she and her parents. It had been a discussion about why Shmi still hesitated to become a Jedi Knight.
The truth was, the more her parents asked her, the less certain Shmi became of her reasoning. She was now at the point that she truly didn't know, at least consciously, what was holding her back. It was frustrating, to say the least, and Shmi couldn't help but feel like, in hesitating, she was letting her parents down.
Shmi sighed heavily and took stock of her surroundings. To her surprise, she found that she had wandered to the level of the Great Hall. The sight only reminded the young woman of her issues, and she allowed a sour expression to twist her features. Shmi could just see the rows of benches filled with students and family, all there to witness Shmi graduate from apprentice to Jedi Knight.
Shmi blew out a breath, tempted to leave. And yet, she also felt drawn to the space, so Shmi calmed, entered and took a seat three rows from the front. Shmi's gaze went to the stained glass window behind the pulpit, something she had always loved to look at. She wasn't much of an artist herself, but she could appreciate the obvious skill that had gone into the creation of the large window.
The craftsmanship was remarkable, and today it soothed her. Sighing again, Shmi simply sat where she was, allowing her mind to wander.
00000
Ignis saw Ben to his next class with a promise that they would continue to find time to work together. Ben had improved greatly since Ignis' first tips to the child, and Ignis had not made a secret of that in front of Ben.
Now Ignis was alone, and he wandered the hall, wondering what he should do with himself in his downtime. He spied the door to the classroom Luke, Shmi and Ignis had used earlier and poked his head inside long enough to see that it was empty.
Ignis was about to leave when he spied something on the ground within the space. Coming forward, Ignis found that it was the small snow globe he had given Shmi after Bespin. Ignis smiled upon remembering that moment, and then figured he should return the item to her.
Ignis held it in his grasp and stood in the hallway, opening himself to the Force so he could search out Shmi's presence. He knew she would not leave the Temple without her parents' permission, so that limited his search area greatly. To his surprise, he felt her above himself, and Ignis moved to the stairs.
Each level he came to did not feel correct, so Ignis kept ascending until he couldn't any longer. He saw where he was and also felt that this was the right place, so Ignis proceeded. Upon reaching the large doors to the Great Hall, he found that one was still propped open enough to admit him without his having to move the door at all.
He paused just inside the portal, seeing Shmi easily since she was the only occupant. He studied her posture, and then sensed her state in the Force and felt a touch of concern for his friend. Ignis approached quietly, though Shmi did turn at some point, no doubt feeling his presence.
She saw him and offered a weak attempt at a smile before resuming her previous position.
Ignis paused at her side and eyed her a bit more, trying to discern what was going on. Clearly she was troubled, but about what? Ignis took a seat on her left, maintaining a respectful distance between them on the bench. He said nothing, merely offering his silent companionship. He too looked to the window he had once stared at for a lengthy time.
Ignis found it intriguing that some art could lull and soothe the one looking at it. Had that been part of the intention in the stained-glass mural before them? Ignis at one point grew aware of the gentle weight in his hand and remembered why he had come to Shmi in the first place. Wordlessly, he set the globe on the bench before Shmi.
She blinked, startled, and placed a hand to a pouch on her belt. "Did it fall out?"
She took the item up and held it as if it held great worth to her. "Thank you Ignis. I didn't realize I had lost it."
Ignis tilted his head. "It's just a trinket," he said cautiously.
Shmi looked to him. "Maybe to you. But to me, it's a reminder of my first actual battle with Dad. Besides, it came from you."
Ignis shifted. "Me? Why does that matter?"
"Because you have become a dear friend, Ignis," Shmi answered. "I am not a material girl; I really don't see the need to possess a lot of stuff. But I do keep a rare few things— even if they seem insignificant to others— that represent something important in my life. Or those that hold a special place in my heart, due to the circumstances in which they were given to me." She held up the globe. "Such as this."
Ignis nodded his understanding, glancing to his shirt and deciding it would be alright to share what was around his neck. He gently fished out the crystal necklace Anya had given him and showed it to Shmi.
"I have very little to my name, and I rarely wear anything that could identify either myself or another. But this item... I can wear it for now." Ignis smiled gently. "Anya and Bo placed a few of their hairs in this crystal. It's a reminder of them, tangible proof that they exist... and that they are dear to me."
Shmi looked to the crystal and retuned her friend's light grin. "That's really beautiful. So that's what you were holding on Cloud City when we thought we were going to die." She paused and then tugged the japor snippet from under her own blouse. "Dad made this for me, and gave it to me before my mission to escort Senator Woxholt. It's a reminder of where we used to live, before Aunt Beru and Uncle Owen were... murdered."
Ignis straightened. "I'm sorry to hear about them."
Shmi's expression warmed. "They were such kind people. Uncle Owen was never super open about his love, but we all knew he cared deeply about us. And Aunt Beru... you would never have met a gentler soul. And yet, she was tough as could be. You had to be in order to survive as long as they had on Tatooine."
Ignis nodded. "I'll bet."
Shmi sobered and replaced her necklace, Ignis doing the same. Shmi then placed her globe in the pouch on her belt and looked to Ignis again. "I haven't put it in my display case yet, because I wanted to keep it close for now."
Her sense had dimmed again, though it wasn't quite as pronounced as before. The quiet only lasted a short moment this time, however. Shmi turned to Ignis, looking a little nervous.
"May I ask why you are so averse to becoming a Jedi?" Shmi inquired gingerly, recalling how he'd reacted the last time someone had called him a Jedi. "I mean, you have the training and experience to be one, but you get so... upset whenever someone mistakes you for a Jedi. I mean, you could do so much, Ignis, with your abilities."
Ignis gave her a look she couldn't quite discern, though there were clear notes of sadness. "Must I bear the title of Jedi to make a difference in someone's life?"
Shmi blinked, taken aback by the simple, yet profound statement.
"Well... no." She admitted softly. "I guess I've never thought of it that way."
"So why are you so disinclined to it?" Ignis asked sagely.
Shmi frowned at him. "Pardon?"
Ignis lifted a brow. "How many years have you spent training to be a Knight?"
"Since the end of the Emperor."
"Right, so then why, once the position is offered to you, do you refuse to accept it?"
Shmi looked down again, and Ignis softened. "I'm not necessarily looking for an immediate answer," he murmured, "but you should do some serious reflection, for your own sake."
He watched her, sensing that their conversation had stirred something in Shmi. She frowned at nothing and then straightened, looking to her companion.
"You might not be looking for an answer right now, but I wish I had one to give you." She thinned her lips in annoyance. "I keep getting asked why I won't take the position, and in truth... I don't know. Especially anymore! The more I get pressed about it, the less I know why!"
Shmi stood and wrung her hands agitatedly. "It's so frustrating! And the worst part is that I feel like..." She paused, her throat closing.
Ignis remained calm. "Like what?"
Shmi looked at the floor. "I feel like I have let my parents down. I'm at the point where I can and should be doing more... but I'm not. Why is this so hard?"
"It doesn't have to be." Ignis informed her mildly.
Shmi leveled a hard stare at him. "Oh really?"
"Yeah," Ignis replied, deciding that it was time to press her. "You are the only one holding yourself back, Shmi. You keep comparing yourself to others, and it's unfair to you."
"Well how am I supposed to measure myself?" Shmi shot back.
"Try with your successes, rather than your failures." Ignis stated with finality.
"It's pretty hard to not compare myself to you," Shmi said, "when you're always around, and so much better than me!"
Ignis straightened. "How am I better than you?"
"Look at all that you can do, Ignis!" Shmi all but shouted, exasperated. "You can do things I've never seen anyone our age even come close to achieving! You are so much more qualified to be a Knight!"
"Shmi, that knowledge and experience came at a very steep price!" Ignis informed her passionately. "Surely you realize that after what you've seen?"
Shmi sobered, recalling the vision she'd shared with her parents in regards to Ignis' past. "Yeah, I do remember." She sighed heavily. "I'm sorry Ignis; I didn't mean to push you like that. I'm just upset. I feel lost, and I can't break from the rut I've gotten myself in to. I don't know what to do."
Ignis studied Shmi, and an idea formed in his mind. Rising, Ignis gestured. "Come with me."
Shmi looked to him as he stepped over the bench and made his way to the main aisle. As he walked toward the door, Shmi considered. Finally she did follow him. Ignis led her back to the rooms designed for rigorous activity. Most were taken, but one was currently empty, and Ignis indicated that Shmi should enter.
She frowned but, trusting him, did go inside. She didn't bother with the lights, figuring that Ignis would turn them on. The door closed behind them, and Shmi heard it lock, and she frowned, turning to face him.
"What's going..."
"Defend yourself." Ignis instructed. Without giving her a chance to respond, the young man had his lightsaber ignited, and he was leaping for her.
Shmi gasped in shock and instinctively went for her own weapon, getting the teal blade up in time to block Ignis' blue one. He came in at her with several blows that had Shmi retreating. She blocked each one, falling to her training, and also allowing the Force to guide her.
"What are you doing?" Shmi demanded, wondering why Ignis had come at her.
Instead of answering, Ignis continued to press his attack, driving Shmi to protect herself. It didn't seem like he was pushing her too hard, and Shmi thought that maybe he just wanted to spar. But the manner in which he had instigated this battle said otherwise.
Shmi blocked one blow of Ignis' and thrust his blade far out, trying to disengage from the fight. They were technically not supposed to be doing this yet, as they had not been given clearance to by her parents. They were still recovering, after all. "Alright, that's enough."
But Ignis swiftly recovered, spinning in a half-circle to get behind her. Shmi sensed the warning in the Force, and she maneuvered her blade to block his next attack. Still a little wary of what he was trying to do, Shmi leapt backwards with the Force, hoping that putting distance between them would help. But once more Ignis wouldn't stop.
Instead of letting her end the scuffle, Ignis leapt also to stay with her, his blade descending on her from above as he came down from his high jump. Shmi defended herself and gave up trying to end their battle.
Besides, she did admit that it felt good to spar, to let loose with someone her own age that could give her a true challenge. Giving herself over to the fight, Shmi stopped retreating, and committed herself fully to the sparring session.
Ignis nodded once at her, and Shmi realized this was what he wanted from her. For now, at least.
Ignis sent a series of strikes at her, and Shmi blocked each. She blocked high right, low left, center and then high left again. Ignis continued to come at her steadily, though when Shmi got comfortable with their pace, he surprised her by escalating his attack. He began to strike a little harder and faster.
Shmi, up for the challenge, took this change in stride. She backed away from him with every two blows. When she sensed the wall behind her, Shmi leapt up and over Ignis' head, coming at him from behind. Ignis ducked her first swing and also rolled away from the wall, leaping to his feet at the crest of the move.
Shmi pressed her advantage and attacked him before he had fully stood upright. Ignis parried her blade, sending it out and away from himself. Shmi, taking a page from Mara's book, let go of her blade with the outside hand and made to punch Ignis in the gut. Sensing the threat, Ignis caught her wrist in his hand.
Then their eyes met, and something passed between them.
"Why aren't you a Jedi yet?" Ignis spoke for the first time since they'd started the battle.
Shmi blinked, thrown off-kilter. "Excuse me?"
Ignis moved faster than Shmi could follow, twisting the arm he held at the wrist and whipping Shmi around. Suddenly her back was against his front, and he spoke at her ear.
"Why are you holding back Shmi?" he asked again.
Shmi used Mara's training to break from Ignis' hold on her, stomping on his foot and using her lightsaber to get him to release her further. He did so, and Shmi turned to face Ignis, who had an odd look in his eyes.
But he did not allow her to rest, coming in again with his blade. This time, it was again faster and more intense. Shmi felt some of his blows all the way up to her elbows, and she struggled to keep up now that her attention was split between his questions and the battle.
Ignis pressed her, forcing Shmi to retreat to the wall once more. She evaded his follow up blow, and stumbled when he hounded her as she tried to get clear. Shmi opened herself to the Force more and used it to keep ahead of his strikes. Ignis came in at her still, not letting up even as Shmi stumbled backwards. Her blade met his every time, but her mind wasn't entirely there anymore.
Why was she holding back? Why wasn't she a Jedi now? Why was she disappointing her parents? And why couldn't she figure herself out?
Frustration began to simmer beneath her control, even as Ignis relentlessly pursued her about the room, raining blow upon blow on her. Shmi stumbled again, wondering why Ignis wouldn't let her think! How was she supposed to give him a real answer if he was constantly attacking her? Not that she could have given him one even if he wasn't coming at her with deadly precision.
"Why won't you accept Knighthood, Shmi?" Ignis demanded around a blow that brought their faces closer together.
Shmi glared at him. "How am I supposed to give an answer, when you won't let me think?!"
In response, Ignis lifted a brow and gestured with the Force. The blinds shut and the lights went out completely, bathing them in almost total darkness. All Shmi could see now was Ignis' face, awash as it was in the light from their two blades.
Ignis broke from their stalemate and thrust at her again, pushing Shmi even harder now. She grimaced at the sheer power behind his attack, and she began to fear that she would not be able to keep up for much longer. That, of course, was when her doubts really began to surface, hindering her concentration further.
She wasn't strong enough... good enough... Ignis had far more experience than she did...
"Then maybe you should just quit." Ignis challenged, and in the heat of the moment, neither teen stopped to wonder how he had known what she was thinking.
Stung, Shmi glared at him, and yet he still did not let up. He pushed Shmi to her very limits, and her arms began to tremble, as did her control.
"Why not stop now?" Ignis remarked around his blows. "It's not like you haven't put your heart and soul into being a Jedi."
"I have!" Shmi snapped back.
"Then why are you hesitating?" Ignis pressed.
"I don't know..."
"Why?" Ignis was relentless, both in his questioning and his attacks.
"I don't know!" Shmi's voice raised a few notches, her emotions beginning to leak from her barriers.
"Why Shmi?!" Ignis all but hollered, and that did it.
"I don't know!" Shmi screeched back, suddenly taking the offensive. She let out a cry, and unleashed her considerable frustration on her friend. Ignis was suddenly the one protecting himself; the one retreating.
Shmi let go completely and allowed her full potential to surge forth, instinctively knowing that Ignis could handle it.
She was the biological daughter of Luke Skywalker! Granddaughter to Anakin Skywalker! Shmi knew that she was powerful, that she had great potential... and that she had the training to back it all up.
She was capable, confident... and yet she was frightened.
"I am holding back because I am scared, alright?!" Shmi shouted, lunging at Ignis with a slice that would have cut him open from hip to chest had he not spun clear. "I know I am ready... but I don't want to be an adult yet!"
Abruptly she stopped, an epiphany hitting her like a brick to the head. Suddenly her hands trembled, and Shmi's breathing became shallow. She was in such shock that she didn't realize that Ignis was no longer fighting her. He had stopped also, his blade now held in a relaxed position at his side.
"I don't want to be counted on as an adult yet!" Shmi's voice was uneven, but audible. "I've been in the security of my parent's protection for as long as I can remember." She was staring at her blade with almost blank eyes. "And now that it's almost time for me to leave that shadow... I don't want to."
Ignis nodded once, even though she didn't see, and deactivated his lightsaber, clipping it back to his belt. He stepped forward, gently took hold of Shmi's wrist, and disarmed her so that she didn't hurt either one of them. He left her blade activated though, and set it upon the floor so they would have a small amount of light.
Shmi finally blinked from her shocked state and looked to him with wide eyes.
"That's my problem, Ignis," Shmi whispered. "I'm afraid to strike out on my own. I don't want to leave the safety of my parents. It's all I've ever known, really, save for my time with Vader and Palpatine."
Ignis blew out a gentle breath of relief. "And there you have it. You've broken free of the rut."
Shmi gazed at him in a new light, realization dawning. "That is what this was all about?"
Ignis inclined his head wordlessly, and Shmi only stared, her mind at work. Finally she stepped forward and embraced him before Ignis could retreat. He recovered though, and embraced her in return; though his was lighter... and a little hesitant.
"Thank you Ignis," Shmi murmured, realizing that she felt secure in his arms. That realization brought her a new bout of wonder. What drew her to Ignis? And... did he feel drawn to her also?
"Yes," Ignis whispered, and the two of them startled at the same time.
Shmi pulled back, frowning at him. "Yes what?"
Ignis opened his mouth, but nothing came out.
Shmi had another thought then. "Hey... during our match just now... did you answer my thoughts? I mean when I was battling my doubts, and you told me to give up."
Ignis shifted uncomfortably. "Ah... maybe?"
Shmi thought it over. "You must have, because I certainly didn't say those things aloud!"
Ignis was starting to look a little frightened, and Shmi understood how he felt.
"How did you do it?" She wanted to know.
"I have no idea," Ignis whispered. "Maybe it was just in the heat of the moment?"
But no, this wasn't the first time he had heard Shmi's thoughts, Ignis knew.
Shmi wasn't so certain that his assumption was correct, and she pursed her lips thoughtfully. Moving closer, Shmi gazed deeply into Ignis' eyes. In those blue depths, Shmi thought she saw something familiar, and, intrigued for some reason, she held out a hand.
Ignis eyed the palm as it neared his face, but to her gratitude, he held still for her, though he remained tense. When Shmi made contact with his face, she felt him stiffen as if in remembrance of something unpleasant. Then, when his eyes closed, Shmi gently placed her other hand upon his face as well, so that she held his head between both palms.
"Look at me, Ignis." Shmi pled softly.
Ignis hesitated, but then slowly opened his eyes. When their gazes met, something seemed to zing between them, and both gasped... a shared vision coming to them.
A dark, warm place and all was secure, with things as they should be. But then something changed, and the surroundings became colder... more lonely. It was as though something had been taken, and could not be returned. And they wept without tears, knowing only on the basest of levels what had happened without really knowing what had occurred.
Ignis gasped, his heart clenching painfully and without warning as an immense sense of loss overcame him. And not just loss, he realized. But an utter loneliness above anything else he had ever felt— and that was saying a lot, considering his past.
He collapsed to his knees, a hand going to his chest as the vision ended. He bent forward, catching himself on the other hand. Shmi was also on her knees, breathing strangely, but she was far more concerned about Ignis.
"Are... are you alright?" Shmi asked, placing a hand to his shoulder.
Ignis shuddered when her touch only heightened his sense of abandonment. "Why... do you make me feel this way?" he asked tremulously, meeting her gaze with searching eyes.
Shmi, knowing what he was asking, because she was thinking the same thing, didn't take offense. "Why do you make me feel these things?"
The two continued to look at each other, and as they calmed, a sense of peace filled them. However, to Shmi's dismay, Ignis seemed to come to a realization, and looked truly scared now.
"No..." he murmured, shaking his head. "I can't feel this way about you... She will use it against me... will hurt you!"
Shmi frowned, befuddled at his sudden shift in thought. "I don't follow. What are you concerned about?"
Ignis bent his head to the ground. "My master... I can't get close to you Shmi... I don't want her to use you against me... or me against you..." He suddenly seized her hands, looking to Shmi as if her life depended on what he had to say.
"If V..." Suddenly he yelped, jerking as if something had physically shocked him. Shmi, alarmed, opened her mouth to speak, but Ignis tried again to do so in her place. "Shmi... I can't let V..."
He cried out again, and since their hands were clasping, Shmi actually felt his heart rate jump. He dropped fully to the floor, breathing heavily as he rubbed at his head. Tears squeezed from his eyes, and he opened his mouth once again, but nothing came out, even as he moved his lips.
A different emotion crossed his face, and Shmi reached for him. Ignis didn't realize she was reaching for him until she touched him, and at the contact, Ignis jumped in alarm. Then he shook his head and turned away from her.
Shmi didn't know what was happening to Ignis, and she was deeply concerned about him.
But before she could do much else, Ignis struggled to his feet. His head was pounding now, and his eyes ached. Ignis pushed past this and made his way to the door. When it opened, he had to squint against the bright lights from the hallway.
"Ignis, where are you going?" Shmi asked, trying to follow him. But he shook his head, gave her a look that she knew meant he was asking her not to follow—how did she know that?— and he stumbled from the doorway.
Shmi watched him go, seeing that he went up the stairs and disappeared. She was left to wonder what had just happened, and why Ignis wouldn't talk to her anymore. Her initial thought was to call her father; but Luke would be in his meetings now, and she knew better than to disturb him for anything less than an emergency.
Her mother would have been her next choice, but she too was busy with Anya. So what was Shmi to do?
Uncertain, she shut the door behind her and went to the gardens, feeling highly stressed. Once in her normal place, Shmi decided to try meditation, and settled into it.
00000
Across the stars, as she sat in a meeting with Furch and her other military advisors, Vexa frowned to herself when she yet again sensed something going on with Ignis. Frustration bubbled to the surface and Vexa felt that, despite her earlier plan to wait, it was time to remind Ignis who was in charge.
As soon as she was finished with her meeting, she would do just that. Vexa had already called Kida home, and the young woman was on her way here.
"We should hit Tanaab next." An advisor was suggesting. "We need to take away their food supply."
"We do not have the manpower to maintain Tanaab even if we take it." Furch retorted. "Right now our goal is to take Coruscant... eventually."
"How do we do that?" someone wanted to know. "What are we really doing out there aside from terrorizing the galaxy? People fear us, yes, but aside from Bespin, what have we accomplished?"
"After our victory, more aid has come our way from our allies. Also, others who wish to cash in have pledged their support," Furch replied patiently. "So while in know it may seem pointless now to continue, I assure you that we will achieve our goal of galactic domination."
The same man, by the name of Ezem, considered this. "But, how will we get to Coruscant. If we took it now, you said yourself we don't have the manpower to maintain it, and we would be at the center of everyone else's sights. They would all rally against us to take Coruscant back, and through sheer numbers they would succeed."
"What about an alternative strategy?" a Rodian suggested.
Furch turned to him. "Go on."
"Why not try a tactic not unlike what the Separatists did in the Clone Wars? Take control of the banks on Scipio."
Vexa lifted a brow. "That idea has merit."
The others looked to her, and the Rodian looked pleased that she had sided with him.
"I want you all to sit on that idea, and any others that would truly help us, and bring then to the next meeting." Vexa stood. "In the meantime, do what you can to keep moral up. We are not backing down. Bespin was a success, one we should be proud of." Vexa looked to the others. "Furch and I will let you know what we decide to hit next."
Everyone stood with her and bowed as she left. Vexa made her way to her personal quarters and once there she prepared her pendant with a drop of Ignis' blood and then she delved deeply into the Force.
She reached across space and touched his mind. Ignis.
She felt him pause, but then he answered her. Yes Master?
You seem to be having a lot going on over there, Vexa said, feeling him tense. I do hope you have not become distracted from your true purpose there.
I have not, Master, Ignis replied warily.
Are you sure? Vexa purred dangerously, savoring how he seemed to swallow heavily. Because if Anya is too much of a distraction for you, I could always have her removed from the picture. Her mental voice hardened suddenly with anger. You know, like you were supposed to do years ago?!
She felt Ignis' shock, mingled as it was with the sense that he had already suspected she might know. That reminded her of the anooba. Oh, and I know about Bo also. Clever, Ignis... but not clever enough.
He trembled. You know about Anya?
I do. And I will not hesitate to kill her should you fail me. I will kill her slowly and painfully with you watching... and then I will take you under my full control with the squid.
Ignis' sense became clouded, and Vexa pushed him on. The time is getting closer for you to make your move. Their brat will soon be old enough to survive without Mara. Do not disappoint me, Ignis...
Vexa made certain to emphasize her warning with images of Anya in various stages of pain and mutilations. Then she showed a grave with Anya's name upon it.
Ignis grew fearful, and sorrowful, but as always, he bowed to her iron will. Yes Master.
Good. I will allow Anya and Bo to live so long as you do what you are told. Do not waste my generosity, Ignis... it will not happen again.
I understand, Ignis replied ruefully.
Vexa left him then, smirking to herself and once more relishing in his redoubled fear. Only this time... it wasn't just fear for himself.
"Oh Vexa, you are evil!" She chuckled to herself.
00000
Ignis sat in the darkness of Anya's room, tears rolling down his face from more than just Vexa's warning. She in fact did know of Anya... and now Anya was more leverage against Ignis. The young man now had no choice but to bend to Vexa's commands. Anya's life was on the line if he didn't.
Ignis found his heart aching at the thought of what he was being ordered to do. He would have to betray the people who had been so good to him. Ignis had known, of course, that he would have to. But still: on this end of things, and after having spent so much time with the Skywalkers, Ignis was finding it more difficult to focus on his true mission.
To top it all off, he couldn't speak right now because of the squid, which had Ben activated by the sensor that also resided within Ignis. One meant to trigger the squid to stop Ignis from speaking and such should he try to reveal Vexa at all.
Plus... Ignis had a massive headache.
So Ignis had to now deal with pain, temporary loss of speech, and the knowledge that if he failed, Anya would die.
The final straw was whatever had just happened with Shmi. What in space had that been all about? Why would he feel such things around her, and why would they share a vision in such a way?
What was going on?
...And why did it frighten Ignis more than anything else?
Feeling every bit utterly alone as he had moments ago around Shmi, Ignis climbed into Anya's bed and stared at the wall, trying and failing to let his mind go blank. This was how he stayed for a long time, not caring how long it was.
00000
Anya sat beside Kodai in the speeder, the babe in his speederseat with Bo on his other side. She was smiling and playing with the baby, who had a happy grin in place, something that melted Anya's heart. She had never known what a joy a baby could be, and she wondered if she would ever get the experience of being a mother.
Her first lesson with Mara had gone rather well, though most of what they'd done had been Mara testing Anya to see what she already knew how to d, and how well she could perform each task.
That had given Mara more of a starting point, Anya knew. Anya herself had been rather surprised to learn that he had apparently picked up on a lot more than she'd realized. Still, Anya had a ways to go before she was on the same level as either Shmi or Ignis.
Their day of lessons had ended early, and Anya had requested that she be allowed to return to her room at the Jedi Temple. Mara had agreed since, with Luke at meetings, it fell to Mara to bring her children home.
Anya was brought back to the present when the speeder slowed to a stop, and Mara exited. As she came around to collect her youngest son, Anya and Bo made their exit also.
"Thanks again for bringing me back early," Anya said.
"It's fine." Mara assured the teen. "Besides, I have been gone for a while after giving birth, so this will give me a chance to catch up on a few things."
Anya merely nodded, leading Bo to the turbolifts and waving to Mara with the promise to be ready for more tomorrow. Anya made it to her room without trouble, and was intrigued when Bo perked up at the portal. He sniffed at the ground and then turned eager eyes on it.
Curious, Anya opened the door, and watched as he pushed his way inside before the door had fully opened. She spied him swiftly entering the bedroom once she herself was inside the small apartment.
Anya deposited her satchel on a nearby chair and followed Bo into the bedroom, though she came up short upon seeing a form in her bed. A stab of instinctual fear touched her heart, but it swiftly subsided when she took in Bo trying to greet the form as if they were his best friend.
Anya turned on the lights and saw a familiar shank of black hair. "Ignis?"
He didn't move at first, but eventually turned his head to view her. She only then saw that his eyes were red. Concerned, Anya approached.
"What's the matter?"
Ignis hesitated, and Anya sat on the edge of the bed near his waist. When he did not speak, Anya frowned lightly.
"Well, if you don't want to speak, I understand," Anya said cautiously. "But you know I am here for you no matter what."
Ignis looked away, and then sighed softly, sitting up and turning to face her. He did give Bo a moment's attention, and his troubled spirit was clear to her now. He did finally look at her, but for some reason he did not speak. He simply took her hand and held it, looking to her as if what he needed was just for her to be with him.
Anya did not fight him, relaxing into his hand and gaze with all the trust she had. However, when his sorrow and fear wafted to the forefront of his sense, Anya needed to press for more.
"Ignis, please talk to me," Anya pled. "Please don't push me away, no matter the reasoning."
Ignis closed his eyes and took a few deliberate breaths. Then he opened his mouth, and though his lips moved, nothing came out, at least at first.
Anya tilted her head, befuddled. Seeing this, Ignis tapped his throat with his fingers, giving Anya a significant look. Anya knew he wanted to tell her something, but she wasn't certain what.
"Your throat hurts?" She guessed.
Ignis shook his head, and she tried again.
"You... aren't feeling well?"
Ignis sighed gently once more and took her fingers, placed them to his throat now, and put his own hand on his head. The entire time, he continued to give her that intense look. Anya looked from his head to his throat, and for some reason a stray memory flitted to mind, one from many years ago.
She recalled when Ignis had managed to tell her something just before he had fallen ominously silent.
Suddenly Anya knew.
"The squid!" She gasped.
Ignis breathed a sigh of relief, and nodded in acknowledgement. He tried again to speak, and though he managed it, his voice was faint and quite rough.
"Yes."
Anya took that in with a grain of salt.
"Ignis, why don't you ever say anything about the squid?" Anya asked, the thought having never occurred to her before. Why? It was because never before had the two of them been near anyone who could actually help them. Thus, it had just been easier to pretend that she didn't know.
Ignis looked away. "Because I can't."
Anya frowned. "Why not?"
Ignis bit his lip, and then touched his head for emphasis. "I barely got out to you the first time that this..." Ignis jerked when, just as he was about to tell Anya about the squid, it zapped him. He panted briefly, and she observed how his eyes went unfocused briefly.
Anya, seeing his reaction, blinked, and then narrowed suspicious eyes. "Go on..."
Ignis managed to meet her gaze, though he shook his head again. Once more, he tapped both his cranium and throat for emphasis, pleading with her via his eyes to understand.
Anya stared at him, her mind at work. At long last she leaned forward.
"You cannot talk about the squid because it won't let you... right?" she almost whispered.
Ignis inclined his head, briefly closing his eyes in obvious relief that she had figured it out. Anya was still studying him openly when his eyelids lifted once more.
"If you do, then this," she gesture to indicate his current state, "happens?"
Ignis nodded. "And more... or worse depending on how treasonous I get. It's also why I can't speak of... her."
Anya processed all that she'd just learned and then snapped to her feet with a curse. Ignis, taken aback, called after her.
"Where are you going?"
"I am done being silent, Ignis." Anya declared fervently.
"Anya..." Ignis tried to speak, his fear increasing for some reason. But Anya carried on over him.
"We finally have a way to get real help Ignis! I am not going to waste that opportunity." Anya growled angrily, turning to face him at the door to the bedroom. "I am done sitting by and watching as Vexa treats you like she does!"
"Anya..." Ignis spoke again, and Anya, fearing that he thought she was mad at him, came forward.
"I am not angry with you, Ignis." She assured him. "But I am done being weak, and I will not just let this one go! I am going to help you, Ignis. I am going to talk with the Skywalkers."
"And what good will that do?" Ignis countered, shifting uncomfortably. "Anya, I don't even know if this blasted..." Ignis cringed again when the squid once more prodded him, "thing... can be taken out! And if so, then how? No one knows! Nobody even realizes this thing exists!"
Anya, reading between the lines, touched his face. "Ignis, I am frightened too..."
She paused as something occurred to her then. Ignis wasn't usually so... glum in the face of an opportunity to get away from his master. Yes, he usually felt like he'd never escape, but he had always been willing to at least try. So what had changed?
"There's something you aren't telling me, isn't there?" Anya murmured, seeing him flinch at that pronouncement. And that was all the confirmation she needed. Pursing her lips, Anya decided to push him. "I am coming forward. The Skywalker family has been so good to me... and to you. I am tired of misleading them."
Ignis frowned. "You aren't."
"Maybe I don't know your actual mission objective," Anya countered quietly, looking down in shame, "but I know enough that my silence is just as bad as your mission."
She shook her head and pulled away again. "I have to say something."
She felt Ignis' fear increase yet again, and he reached for her as she got away, but Anya remained just out of reach. She walked with purpose to the front door. "We can change this, Ignis, we can..."
"She knows about you!" Ignis burst out desperately, his voice cracking heavily.
Anya froze, her heart hammering in her chest so hard it hurt, and her blood suddenly ran as though it was now ice water. The hand that was held out to open the door now trembled, and Anya took several unsteady breaths.
Finally she turned back around. "Wh-what?"
Ignis wrung his hands. "My master knows you are alive, Anya. She knows... and she is aware of your location!"
Anya's quivering became more pronounced as terror seized her, and then she stilled as a realization came to her. "So all these years in isolation have been for nothing?"
Ignis reacted as if she'd sucker-punched him, and he collapsed back onto the bed. "I am so sorry Anya! So sorry!"
Anya could do nothing but stand there for long minutes as Ignis continued to apologize.
"I am sorry you've been so... alone! So cut off from everything and everyone... unable to make friends or return home to your family..." Ignis buried his face in his hands.
Unable to see her best friend in such a state, Anya went to him and pulled him upright again. "I do not blame you Ignis. I place full blame on Vexa. She is responsible for all of this."
Ignis took her hand once more. "I hate that you've suffered! And yet... I do not want to see you suffer any more. Which is why I absolutely must not fail my master! Your safety depends on it."
Anya truly did not want to know what he meant, and yet a morbid part of her still caused her to ask. "What does that mean?"
Ignis grimaced. "Let's just say that a swift death would be a mercy. I will not let her get to you, Anya. Not if I can help it!"
Anya swallowed, and then tried to find her courage again. "I really think we need to take this to the Skywalkers."
Ignis shook his head irregularly. "If they found out, surely they'd kill me." He looked down. "But if they did... then at least I would finally be free of my cruel master."
Anya sucked in a breath, jerking back.
"Don't talk like that!" She snapped irately, though in truth she was petrified to hear him talking so freely about his own death.
Ignis winced, but nor did he rescind his statement. Anya grabbed his chin fervently and turned it so he had to look at her. She was nearly in tears now.
"Please don't talk like that, Ignis! There is always hope!"
Ignis shook his head forlornly, gently breaking from her grasp. "Not for me, there isn't."
Anya hated how defeated he sounded. "Ignis..."
"Tell them if you wish," Ignis spoke over her. "I will not be upset with you. But I... I don't know if I am ready to risk disobeying my master..." he swallowed with difficulty, "again."
Anya saw the fear deepen in his eyes, and thought that he was remembering something wretched. Anya wished that she could say she understood, but she truly didn't. She did not know what it was like to have a living creature attached to her brain; one that could take over her mind to transform her into a living, breathing puppet.
"And she activated... me... briefly at Bespin," Ignis croaked, wrapping his arms about himself. "I tried to resist it, but I couldn't. The more I struggled against it, the more my head hurt until I thought I would pass out."
Anya sucked in a breath. "So her threats weren't idle after all. This squid really can control you."
Ignis nodded, his despair clear to her.
Desperate to cling to some shred of hope, Anya tried again to convince him. However, she herself lacked her earlier confidence. "Maybe... if we talk with Luke and Mara, they would be willing and able to help."
Ignis shook his head. "I will leave that up to you to decide."
Anya blanched, feeling stuck between a rock and a hard place. "Why doesn't that make me feel better?"
