Master Plo Koon insisted they walk to the city. //He loves the outdoors too much//, thought Xanatos, but he did not object.
They were in the city and about to go down to the lower levels of the city when around the corner came none other that Xanatos main nemesis, Norton Gilroy. He wore a very big robe with a hood that covered his face, but there was no mistaking his walk. He had a slight but distinctive limp.
"Well what a coincidence. We meet on a street corner Xani. Now how's that for luck?"
"My name is Xanatos, Padawan Xanatos Crion, not "Xani" and I have nothing to say to you Mr. Gilroy."
"Oh but I have a lot to say, but of course I have been silenced in a sense. It seems that I have been banned from entering the temple. Do you know anything about that Padawan Xanatos Crion?"
"I am a lowly padawan in the Jedi order. Surely you don't presume to think I can make such decisions for the council do you?"
"Maybe it was that master of yours that did it, but whoever. Someone has stopped me from telling the truth about you."
Xanatos was getting more and more nervous as the conversation continued. He did not want Gilroy to tell Master Plo Koon what happened on Telos. He knew Gilroy had already gone over what he thought happened, he just didn't want it retold.
Master Plo Koon decided to step into the conversation.
"You would presume too much if you thought that Master Qui-Gon Jinn carries so much authority inside of the Jedi temple. The only Jedi that could have had you banned from the temple is a council member. I would be that council member that saw to it you would not be allowed to return to the temple."
Xanatos was as surprised as Norton Gilroy to here who had Gilroy banned.
"Oh and I suppose you want the truth squashed as badly as Padawan Crion does? What purpose does it do you for me to be barred from the temple? You are not his master now are you?"
"No I am not his master as you well know and it also serves me no purpose whatsoever. I don't want a pack of lies reiterated before the council again. We have heard your side and the council is just about to make the decision on Padawan Crion's guilt or innocence. The council does not need to hear more. I am inclined to believe your own personal gain enticed you to come before the council in the first place. I think there is no truth in what you say."
Xanatos was exceedingly glad that Master Plo Koon defended him, but he was concerned that Gilroy would convince the master to listen to his side on again; going over every sorted and gory detail.
"Well it would seem that Xanatos has even gotten a Jedi council master on his side. How convenient. Is that how the Jedi do things now? They protect murderers behind the confines of the Jedi temple walls."
"We have found that Padawan Crion has done no wrong. All of our investigations have turned up nothing of significance. You sir may step out of our way. We have a mission to attend too."
"Oh does it involve murder. It must, if you have Xani here with you. You are quite good at that are you not, Xani?"
"You Norton Gilroy infer a lie and I will not listen to you again. Master Plo Koon and I have somewhere to be so you may step aside."
Xanatos had become even more agitated with Gilroy and he wanted their conversation to cease immediately.
Gilroy knew he had not gotten anywhere with the conversation. The council master did not believe a word he said. He became enraged with the thought of Xanatos going free. Not that he cared, about the murdered prisoners, he hated Xanatos for what he had and what he was so much, Gilroy craved his downfall.
Now when Gilroy spoke there was heightened agitation in his voice.
"I really did want to do this the right way. I wanted to see you knocked from your pedestal Xanatos and I was willing to let the Jedi do it for me. But it seems you have blinded them just as you managed to blind your father to your evil and corrupt way. I am going to have to take matters in my own hands."
Gilroy pulled a blaster gun out from underneath his robe. He took aim and started to shoot Xanatos. Master Plo Koon used the force to knock the gun out of his hand. Gilroy swiftly dropped to the ground, rolled over two times, and reached his blaster. Plo Koon, not up to par with his Jedi powers, made a mistake and hesitated as Gilroy pulled the trigger on the blaster gun. The shot hit nicked Xanatos in the leg. Before Gilroy had enough time to get off a second and hopefully more deadly shot, Plo Koon pulled his saber and buried it deeply in the man's back.
Xanatos laid injured on the ground and not ten feet lay his accuser; the only one with enough knowledge if proven that could have kept him from his knighthood. Even though shot, Xani let out an unnoticed shy of relief.
"Well young man, I think I will have some explaining to do to your master about you getting shot. I don't imagine he will be too pleased."
"It is not your fault Master Plo Koon. If anything my master should thank you for saving my life."
Master Plo Koon had not been in any kind of battle in many years. He was pleased and flattered by Xanatos' compliments. That only endeared him more to the future young knight who laid wounded.
Master Plo Koon called for a med unit to be sent and sat down by Xanatos to help with the wound in any way he could.
Xanatos wanted to get a feel for what Master Plo Koon thought of what Gilroy had said about him so he tried to fish information from him.
"I guess it is too bad that he had to be killed Master Plo Koon. Now I will never be able to prove my innocence."
"You have nothing to prove Xanatos, certainly not to me. I would think the council will be more than satisfied that your master found nothing to incriminate you of any wrongdoing. We have lost nothing by this man's death. Trouble maker that's all he was, a jealous trouble maker who I feel got his just rewards. Now think no more of it. We have to get you healthy again."
Xanatos was indeed pleased with what he heard from Master Plo Koon.
"It is only a nick. A little bacta and a bandage and it will be fine by tomorrow after a little healing trance tonight."
"Well I am sure it will be fine, still let's let the med unit put you on a stretcher and don't walk on it till the healers see it."
Master Plo Koon acted more like Xani's master than just a master on a mission with "someone else's" padawan.
############back at the temple############
Qui-Gon sat in the common room of his apartment going over in his mind what he and Obi-Wan had said to each other. He wished he could just demand the boy come out and talk with him but he knew that would not be the way to go with Obi-Wan. He would just become resentful at being told what to do by a master he did not even want to see right now. .
The only talking he and Obi-Wan had done was when he served him break-fast. After that Obi-Wan went back into his room just to sit in the hover chair. He refused again to go to therapy. He could not have said more than two or three words to his master that morning.
Qui-Gon told him he would be in the common room and that he hoped Ob-Wan would reconsider and come and discuss this matter of leaving the Jedi with his master, before it was too late.
The buzz of the comm link jarred the master out of his thoughts. He answered to find Master Darue on the other end.
"Master Jinn I thought you would want to know, Padawan Crion received a nick in his leg from a blaster shot. The mobile med unit will have him here in about ten minutes."
"Xani injured how and by who?"
"I am not sure who but he was nicked not hit full force by a blaster shot in the lower leg. There is no real concern. I have already spoken with the mobile med unit and they said bata and a light healing trance would do the trick for his recovery."
"You are sure. He is alright?
"Yes, it is quite a minor wound, just thought I should let you know."
"I will be right there to wait on his arrival. I want to see how he is for myself."
Qui-Gon got up and went for his robe. Just then the door opened up to Obi-Wan's room and the boy wheeled himself out.
"You said you wanted to talk, then let's talk."
Obi-Wan had rethought his idea and realized if he could, he very much he wanted to remain a Jedi. In his mind he hoped desperately that his master could give him a reason to stay. Maybe his master could convince him he was wanted. At least that was what Obi-Wan secretly hoped for.
Qui-Gon has sat in the common room alone for two solid hours as he hoped Obi-Wan would come out and talk things over with him. Now the child that done just that and he could not stay to hear what he said. He thought that once Obi-Wan heard of Xani's injury he would understand.
"Oh Obi-Wan I do so much want to talk with you. However I just got word that Xani was injured."
Obi interrupted him.
"Is it serious?"
"No the healer assures me that it is just a flesh wound nothing more than a nick. Still I want to be there at the healers ward when he comes in. Of course you understand."
Maybe it was childish of Obi-Wan, but he became jealous of Qui's attention being directed to Xani over him. After all, the healers had assured him it was nothing. Master said so himself.
Qui-Gon could feel the overpowering emotion of anger in Obi-Wan while he waited for the boy to say something. The strength of Obi's hatred came through their shared bond and actually hurt his master physically to feel it. It was like feeling an evil force as it surrounded master and apprentice.
"Oh yes my master I understand perfectly. I understand that you should be by your padawan's side when he needs you. Isn't that what a master does when an apprentice is in need of his help. So please go be with your padawan. I suppose I am in need of nothing from you now."…………………………................................
Jinn hesitated as he tried to decide which padawan needed him most. He finally decided he must see with his own eyes that Xanatos was all right. He left although he knew Obi-Wan was in a rage of jealously and anger.
//It is nothing more than a teenager's temper tantrum. Had Obi-Wan been able to think clearly he would know I did not choose Xani over him. Xani is hurt. I would have done no less for Obi-Wan.//
Still there was a nagging thought that Obi-Wan's rage was more than a mere tantrum. He had never witnessed a Jedi become so wrapped in anger than what Obi-Wan was when he left him. He promised himself he would see to Xanatos and if indeed he was all right he could come straight back to Obi-Wan.
Xanatos was already in the healer's ward when his master came in. The wound was exposed after it had just been cleaned up.
A smile crept over the master's face as he let out a sigh of relief.
"That is a minor scratch Xani. In your younger day you would not have even come here, we would have treated it at home."
"Yes Master Jinn, but since he was in my care, I wanted to be assured that he was alright, before I handed him back too you."
Jinn had forgotten about Plo Koon and he startled him for a moment when he walked up to Jinn. Qui-Gon assumed he was alone with his apprentice.
"Well thank you Master Plo Koon. I take it you two ran into trouble. Did you find the murderer?"
"No it had nothing to do with the man we were looking for. In fact we did not even reach our destination down in the lower levels. We were confronted with Norton Gilroy before we got there."
"Norton Gilroy. He did this? Where is he now?"
"I would suppose at the city morgue. Now before you get so upset, your padawan did not kill him, I did. I had no choice. He had already shot your apprentice once and I am sure he would not have stopped till he saw Xani dead. I kept him from killing your padawan."
Jinn was a little perplexed that Plo Koon used Xanatos' nickname, the one Jinn gave him, but he said nothing. He was glad that Plo Koon kept Xanatos from being killed."
"Then all my gratitude is yours Master Plo Koon. I would have done just as you, I am sure, if I was put in same situation."
"Yes well I will still have to answer to the council about a death of a citizen, however I do not expect a problem. Had it been Xanatos, they might have accused him of getting rid of Gilroy for his own purposes, but I assure you as I will the council that was not the case. Xanatos tried to be more than amicable with the man. He just lost all control. Jealousy is a nasty thing,"
Qui-Gon could only nod his agreement as he watched the healer wrap Xanatos' leg.Master Jinn knew all about jealousy for he left Obi-Wan in a fit of rage anger and jealously to come and be with Xani. He wanted desperately for Xani to finish so he could see Obi-Wan, but he still was not willing to leave his apprentice, even though he knew very well the young man was more than all right. The wound was little more than a scratch for a Jedi.
Mace came into see how Xanatos was and find out what happened. After they had finished talking back and forth between the three masters, Qui looked at the time to see that over an hour had passed.
Xani I think you should go and rest for the remainder of the afternoon; stay off your leg at any rate."
"Fine with me. Master Plo Koon got me up so early anyway."
Xanatos looked at Master Plo Koon and smiled. The normally grumpy master returned the smile. He knew that Xani was joking with him.
"Listen master I would like to ask Master Plo Koon to last-meal, would that be all right?"
Qui-Gon was trapped. He was thankful that Master Plo Koon had assisted his padawan but he had no real desire to have last-meal with him.. They just never seemed to get along. Another reason he did not want him there was Obi-Wan. Nevertheless he could not deny Xanatos his request. He had almost lost the young man. His first inclination was to give him what ever he wanted. He was just happy to have Xanatos alive so he could handle being with Plo Koon for one evening.
Master Plo Koon could sense Qui-Gon's hesitancy.
"I don't think you should pressure your master Xani. He might have other plans tonight."
"No we would welcome your company with us at last-meal. Is seven all right with you?"
"Well thank you and seven is the time I normally eat at home. It will be more than fine."
Mace could not believe he heard what he did. He planned to tease his friend about having Master Plo Koon over for last-meal. He thought he should wait though, until the master had things more under control with Obi-Wan.
##########
By the time Xanatos and his master reached the apartment, it had been well over two hours that Qui-Gon was away after he promised himself he would return to Obi-Wan as quickly as he could after he saw to Xanatos..
Xanatos stumbled over a chair to reach the light. It was totally dark in their apartment. An on coming storm outside along with the pulled drapes made the room with no lights as dark as night.
'Well the least the little one could have done was put a lamp on for us."
"I think we survived getting in. I will go see what Obi-Wan is up too."
"Probably still sulking about his little enlightenment this morning."
Jinn knew very well Xani was taking advantage of his situation to criticize Obi-Wan.
"Don't start Xani. Obi-Wan took everything out of context today and evidently so did you."
"I don't think we did. I think you spoke honestly and it just hurt his ego to hear it. As for me my master I know you better than you know yourself. You could no more leave the Jedi to care for a handicapped child than you could use your saber on me."
"I am not sure which one of my padawans need their ears washed out more, you or Obi-Wan. I said nothing to lead either of you to believe that I am in some way not happy about the way Obi-Wan has progressed so far. I am not contemplating leaving the Jedi order just yet. Obi-Wan still might improve enough to continue his Jedi training."
Jinn wanted very much to shout out the news of Obi-Wan's condition. He wanted so badly to tell Xanatos of the steps Obi had taken and of another piece of his memory returning, but he would not betray Mace and Obi-Wan's confidence.
"Master I know you wanted to agree with me about just encouraging Obi-Wan, although you knew he might never be the way he was before when he was a Jedi apprentice."
"You want to put words and ideas in my mind and mouth that I have never considered. Because you have been injured, I have no wish too argue with you, however I must ask you too stop. I have to clear up this entire mess with Obi and now I think it might have gone so far that it can't be corrected."
Qui-Gon got up to go too his room.
"Master I just don't want you to get your hopes up. I know very well you encouraged Obi-Wan just to give him hope. You don't honestly believe he will be able to recover from all the problems he has now."
Jinn turned on Xanatos in anger.
"You are so wrong Xani. I am pleased with Obi's improvements no matter how large or small they are. I know what you think. You think I have given Obi-Wan false hope. Let me tell you something padawan, there is no such thing as false hope if the person who has that hope has someone who believes in him. Obi-Wan has that, for he has me and I believe in him with all my heart and soul…………………I'm on lunch break so hear it is
I do did feedback on this one. Yes that means all my lurking readers. Delurk on this one for me!!
#############
Qui-Gon prepared the meal they were to share with Master Plo Koon.
He had not decided how to handle Obi-Wan. He was not sure he wanted the boy at the table with them during last-meal, but yet he was not sure he wanted him not there either. His absence would evoke more questions from Master Plo Koon.
Xanatos hadn't thought of Obi-Wan since he returned from his successful mission. It was more than successful for him because the one man who wanted the investigation done on him was dead. The best part of his death was that Xanatos did not do it so there could be no queries done concerning his death, at least where he was concerned.
Master Plo Koon had proven to be more useful to Xanatos than he could have even imagined. Norton insistence of Xanatos' guilt could never be uttered from his lips again. Xani was "home free".
###That evening:########
Master Plo Koon sat in the common room with Xanatos. Qui-Gon thought it was the first time he had ever in his entire life heard the grump of a master laugh.
Jinn came from the kitchen to the common room. His eyes darted from his padawan and Plo Koon to Obi-Wan's door. He had not had time to speak to the boy since he returned that day and thought he would discuss matters with him that night after the illustrious council master left. He planned to serve Obi-Wan his food in the bedroom opting that would be the safer way to handle him. He did not want Obi-Wan out at the table with them to "spill his guts" to Master Plo Koon about his irrational desire to leave the Jedi order.
Jinn's worries did not prove to be unwarranted. Just as the three Jedi went to the table to sit down for last-meal, the creak of Obi-Wan's door left no doubt that Obi-Wan was going to make his presence known, how, Master Jinn was not sure.
Qui-Gon thought that Obi might have heard the boisterous laughing that came from Xani and Plo Koon. That could be the reason for his unusual desire to come out with his master for last-meal after he had spent the entire day locked in his room.
Qui-Gon watched in numbed silence as Obi-Wan wheeled himself out of his room with a sarcastic smirk planted on his face.
Jinn did not like the way the boy looked. He knew his apprentice well enough to know that trouble was teetering, just waiting to happen. He had the distinct feeling that Obi-Wan planned something more than just having last-meal.
"Master, you did not tell me we were being graced with a council master for last-meal. I would have been out sooner. Did it slip your mind?"
Was that a look of plan defiance on Obi-Wan's face. Jinn tried to think of what Obi-Wan had planned. He was unsuccessful. He would have to tough it out and wait till Obi-Wan made his move before he would know what his little padawan had up his sleeve.
"Yes Obi-Wan you could say that. I thought you would prefer having your meal in your room as you have been."
"No I very much want to visit with Master Plo Koon and Xanatos. I want to hear all about their mission today. Sorry about your injury "Xani"".
Another mischievous smile was flashed at his worried master, but the sound of his voice did not resonate humor.
The sound of anger swelled in Obi's voice as he heavily accented Xani's name with as much disgust as he was able to vocalize. Xani didn't notice it because he was too busy readying himself to tell his tale of glory. Jinn heard the venom in Obi-Wan's voice as clear as could be.
"Oh it was nothing. All the credit has to be given to Master Plo Koon. He beat me to the punch on defense today."
The words said before Xani realized he w was just responding to "stupid" little Obi-Wan. He loved to brag about missions, ever how uncomplicated they were. Once he realized he was talking to Obi-Wan, he also recognized the child's thick venonmous sarcasm. He was not like his master, he welcomed Obi-Wan at the table. Maybe Master Plo Koon could witness some of Obi-Wan's irrationality.
//Maybe Master Plo Koon will find out just irrational and childish Obi-Wan is,// thought Xani.
Master Plo Koon on the other hand wanted to retell the story of their confrontation with Norton Gilroy.
As he told the story, Obi-Wan became agitated by Plo Koon's lavished story and his absolute enjoyment over Norton Gilroy no longer existing. Obi-Wan knew that Gilroy's accusation against Xanatos died with him.
Qui-Gon could feel the emotional turmoil boiling up in Obi-Wan like a cauldron of hot liquid.
"How convenient for you Xani. The one man that could keep you from knighthood is now dead and will carry all his secrets to the grave with him."
Even Master Plo Koon could tell what the boy inferred and he did not care for it.
"I think you, Padawan Kenobi, would be wise to watch your mouth. I hear accusations in the statements you make that I do not care for. I do hope you remember I am a member of the council and my word carries weight there when decisions are made.
He really wasn't one of the more important masters on the council, he liked to overstate his authority.
Qui-Gon did not like the way things were going.
"I only state facts Master Plo Koon. If one is not guilty of anything then surely one would not care what a mere child said. I mean I have no memory, no Jedi powers, and actually no place in the Jedi order at all right now. Surely what I say should not matter."
"Quite truthfully child it should not. But I do know how favored you are in the eyes of a select few on the council. I would not want them to let your jealous lies carry any weight in their decision of Padawan Crion's knighthood. The matter of innocence or guilt of Xani has all but been settled where your master's padawan is concerned. I would think you would mind your manners and keep your mouth shut."
Two times in one day Plo Koon had told Jinn's padawan what to do and Qui-Gon did not care for it. He had to bite his tongue to keep from saying anything.
Of course Obi-Wan's master did not care for Obi-Wan's words any more than he did for Plo Koon's. So far, the only one who had acted civil at the table other than himself had been Xani. However that was about to change.
"It's all right Master Plo Koon. It is just as my master told me, we have to allot for Obi-Wan's confused state. Just as I am sure the council will take in consideration his almost demented condition if he decides to voice those ridiculous accusations to the council masters.. He just doesn't think clearly and of course he suffers from jealousy over my continued training by our shared master."
//Where did Xani get that from, pluck it out of thin air? I never said Obi-Wan was demented or that we had to allow for his diminished mental capacity. He is portraying Obi-Wan as little more than an embecile. Now he has made matters worse.//
Still Master Jinn was hesitant about starting an outright confrontation with both of his padawans in the presence of the one council master who would very much like to see Master Jinn stumble and fall from his state of grace within the Jedi order. Except in Plo Koon's eyes, Qui-Gon was considered the top master in all things at the Jedi temple.
Qui-Gon could tell by the way his "little one" was literally seething that he was about to make a grave error by starting an argument in front of a council master.
Jinn abruptly got up, jerked the fork from Obi-Wan's hand, and actually slammed his padawan's napkin down on the table, after he tore it from Obi-Wan's lap.
"That's about it for the evening fellas. I don't think an all out war between my two padawans is something Master Plo Koon came here to see."
"On the contrary, I had heard of Obi-Wan's incessant and uncontrollable outbursts. Now I can recant them personally to the council when he comes before us."
Jinn was not aware that Mace had notified the council of Obi-Wan's request.
Plo Koon's chilling words in Master Jinn's ears faded away as he said nothing in defense of his apprentice.. He continued to take Obi-Wan to his room. The boy was so shocked at having been pulled from the table that luckily he hadn't regained enough clear thought to say anything nasty in reply to Plo Koon's smart remarks or to Xani proclaiming his idiocy.
Qui-Gon knew it might have seemed rude to leave their guest, but he had no choice. Once in Obi's room Qui-Gon spun his hover chair around with such force it made the teenager dizzy.
"Just what was that little bit of theatrics about Obi-Wan? You want to be assured that you are dismissed from the Jedi. No wait, that is what you want isn't it? Well careflul young man you just may get your wish, acting like that in front of a council member, especially one that has no love for me whasoever. Until or unless the council relinquishes my right as your master you will listen and do everything I tell you. Is that understood?"
"I don't have to do anything, but be the dumb little padawan to Qui-Gon Jinn."
Jinn gritted his teeth and balled his fists up. He had never had such an urge to strike someone as much as he wanted to slap some sense in his padawan right now.
" You may drown in your self pity all you want, but make no mistake Obi-Wan Kenobi, you will do just as I say when I say it. Now I have to go out there and correct some of the mess you have made. What could you have been thinking by accusing Xani of something less than honorable in the death of Gilroy? How dare you. Maybe I won't fight you in front of the council when you ask to be given your freedom from the Jedi. Maybe Xanatos is right. You are a lost cause and I am just beating my head against a stone wall trying to help you with anything."
The words spoken by his master stung Obi-Wan back to reality. When he heard his master say he was a "lost cause" it was like sticking a knife into him and turning it. Obi-Wan did not take into consideration that it was his master now who was not thinking as clearly as he should. Qui-Gon was worried about what Plo Koon would say to the council about Obi-Wan's lack of respect. He let his worry for Obi-Wan blind his thoughts before he spoke.
Jinn left a bewildered and hurt boy alone in his room to think over the shameful things he had just done to totally embarrass his master in front of the most high council Master Plo Koon.
Jinn walked out of Obi-Wan's room to find an even angrier padawan in the common room.
" Master Plo Koon thought it best to take his leave earlier than he had planned. I wonder why?!?! Well Obi-Wan certainly showed himself this night did he not master?"
"I myself was not pleased with Plo Koon telling him to shut up."
"Why master? It was something you should have said to Obi-Wan. He was out of line; you knew it and so did Master Plo Koon The only difference is, Master Plo Koon defended me when Obi-Wan made those accusations. Your only concern evidently was that the child might get into trouble."
"Xani you do not need me to defend you from a fifteen year-old distraught child. You are acting Obi-Wan's age now."
"Is that how you see it? Well master I am sorry you feel that way. Look I am going out for a while."
Jinn normally did not nose in his older padawan's privacy but this was not normal circumstances.
"May I ask where you are going? Is your leg all right?"
"For all your concern and I will take it you are concerned for me, I am going to Master Plo Koon's. We will just be talking and he wants to tell me about his homeworld. I will not be using my leg except to walk to the elavator."
There it was again that pang of jealousy Qui-Gon would feel when Xani exhibited a desire to be around Master Plo Koon instead of him.
The slam of the door echoed through the apartment. Jinn was left with one angry padawan in the bedroom and an even angrier padawan being entertained by his most dangerous adversary at the temple….….Plo Koon!………………….
PEACE ewen
.
They were in the city and about to go down to the lower levels of the city when around the corner came none other that Xanatos main nemesis, Norton Gilroy. He wore a very big robe with a hood that covered his face, but there was no mistaking his walk. He had a slight but distinctive limp.
"Well what a coincidence. We meet on a street corner Xani. Now how's that for luck?"
"My name is Xanatos, Padawan Xanatos Crion, not "Xani" and I have nothing to say to you Mr. Gilroy."
"Oh but I have a lot to say, but of course I have been silenced in a sense. It seems that I have been banned from entering the temple. Do you know anything about that Padawan Xanatos Crion?"
"I am a lowly padawan in the Jedi order. Surely you don't presume to think I can make such decisions for the council do you?"
"Maybe it was that master of yours that did it, but whoever. Someone has stopped me from telling the truth about you."
Xanatos was getting more and more nervous as the conversation continued. He did not want Gilroy to tell Master Plo Koon what happened on Telos. He knew Gilroy had already gone over what he thought happened, he just didn't want it retold.
Master Plo Koon decided to step into the conversation.
"You would presume too much if you thought that Master Qui-Gon Jinn carries so much authority inside of the Jedi temple. The only Jedi that could have had you banned from the temple is a council member. I would be that council member that saw to it you would not be allowed to return to the temple."
Xanatos was as surprised as Norton Gilroy to here who had Gilroy banned.
"Oh and I suppose you want the truth squashed as badly as Padawan Crion does? What purpose does it do you for me to be barred from the temple? You are not his master now are you?"
"No I am not his master as you well know and it also serves me no purpose whatsoever. I don't want a pack of lies reiterated before the council again. We have heard your side and the council is just about to make the decision on Padawan Crion's guilt or innocence. The council does not need to hear more. I am inclined to believe your own personal gain enticed you to come before the council in the first place. I think there is no truth in what you say."
Xanatos was exceedingly glad that Master Plo Koon defended him, but he was concerned that Gilroy would convince the master to listen to his side on again; going over every sorted and gory detail.
"Well it would seem that Xanatos has even gotten a Jedi council master on his side. How convenient. Is that how the Jedi do things now? They protect murderers behind the confines of the Jedi temple walls."
"We have found that Padawan Crion has done no wrong. All of our investigations have turned up nothing of significance. You sir may step out of our way. We have a mission to attend too."
"Oh does it involve murder. It must, if you have Xani here with you. You are quite good at that are you not, Xani?"
"You Norton Gilroy infer a lie and I will not listen to you again. Master Plo Koon and I have somewhere to be so you may step aside."
Xanatos had become even more agitated with Gilroy and he wanted their conversation to cease immediately.
Gilroy knew he had not gotten anywhere with the conversation. The council master did not believe a word he said. He became enraged with the thought of Xanatos going free. Not that he cared, about the murdered prisoners, he hated Xanatos for what he had and what he was so much, Gilroy craved his downfall.
Now when Gilroy spoke there was heightened agitation in his voice.
"I really did want to do this the right way. I wanted to see you knocked from your pedestal Xanatos and I was willing to let the Jedi do it for me. But it seems you have blinded them just as you managed to blind your father to your evil and corrupt way. I am going to have to take matters in my own hands."
Gilroy pulled a blaster gun out from underneath his robe. He took aim and started to shoot Xanatos. Master Plo Koon used the force to knock the gun out of his hand. Gilroy swiftly dropped to the ground, rolled over two times, and reached his blaster. Plo Koon, not up to par with his Jedi powers, made a mistake and hesitated as Gilroy pulled the trigger on the blaster gun. The shot hit nicked Xanatos in the leg. Before Gilroy had enough time to get off a second and hopefully more deadly shot, Plo Koon pulled his saber and buried it deeply in the man's back.
Xanatos laid injured on the ground and not ten feet lay his accuser; the only one with enough knowledge if proven that could have kept him from his knighthood. Even though shot, Xani let out an unnoticed shy of relief.
"Well young man, I think I will have some explaining to do to your master about you getting shot. I don't imagine he will be too pleased."
"It is not your fault Master Plo Koon. If anything my master should thank you for saving my life."
Master Plo Koon had not been in any kind of battle in many years. He was pleased and flattered by Xanatos' compliments. That only endeared him more to the future young knight who laid wounded.
Master Plo Koon called for a med unit to be sent and sat down by Xanatos to help with the wound in any way he could.
Xanatos wanted to get a feel for what Master Plo Koon thought of what Gilroy had said about him so he tried to fish information from him.
"I guess it is too bad that he had to be killed Master Plo Koon. Now I will never be able to prove my innocence."
"You have nothing to prove Xanatos, certainly not to me. I would think the council will be more than satisfied that your master found nothing to incriminate you of any wrongdoing. We have lost nothing by this man's death. Trouble maker that's all he was, a jealous trouble maker who I feel got his just rewards. Now think no more of it. We have to get you healthy again."
Xanatos was indeed pleased with what he heard from Master Plo Koon.
"It is only a nick. A little bacta and a bandage and it will be fine by tomorrow after a little healing trance tonight."
"Well I am sure it will be fine, still let's let the med unit put you on a stretcher and don't walk on it till the healers see it."
Master Plo Koon acted more like Xani's master than just a master on a mission with "someone else's" padawan.
############back at the temple############
Qui-Gon sat in the common room of his apartment going over in his mind what he and Obi-Wan had said to each other. He wished he could just demand the boy come out and talk with him but he knew that would not be the way to go with Obi-Wan. He would just become resentful at being told what to do by a master he did not even want to see right now. .
The only talking he and Obi-Wan had done was when he served him break-fast. After that Obi-Wan went back into his room just to sit in the hover chair. He refused again to go to therapy. He could not have said more than two or three words to his master that morning.
Qui-Gon told him he would be in the common room and that he hoped Ob-Wan would reconsider and come and discuss this matter of leaving the Jedi with his master, before it was too late.
The buzz of the comm link jarred the master out of his thoughts. He answered to find Master Darue on the other end.
"Master Jinn I thought you would want to know, Padawan Crion received a nick in his leg from a blaster shot. The mobile med unit will have him here in about ten minutes."
"Xani injured how and by who?"
"I am not sure who but he was nicked not hit full force by a blaster shot in the lower leg. There is no real concern. I have already spoken with the mobile med unit and they said bata and a light healing trance would do the trick for his recovery."
"You are sure. He is alright?
"Yes, it is quite a minor wound, just thought I should let you know."
"I will be right there to wait on his arrival. I want to see how he is for myself."
Qui-Gon got up and went for his robe. Just then the door opened up to Obi-Wan's room and the boy wheeled himself out.
"You said you wanted to talk, then let's talk."
Obi-Wan had rethought his idea and realized if he could, he very much he wanted to remain a Jedi. In his mind he hoped desperately that his master could give him a reason to stay. Maybe his master could convince him he was wanted. At least that was what Obi-Wan secretly hoped for.
Qui-Gon has sat in the common room alone for two solid hours as he hoped Obi-Wan would come out and talk things over with him. Now the child that done just that and he could not stay to hear what he said. He thought that once Obi-Wan heard of Xani's injury he would understand.
"Oh Obi-Wan I do so much want to talk with you. However I just got word that Xani was injured."
Obi interrupted him.
"Is it serious?"
"No the healer assures me that it is just a flesh wound nothing more than a nick. Still I want to be there at the healers ward when he comes in. Of course you understand."
Maybe it was childish of Obi-Wan, but he became jealous of Qui's attention being directed to Xani over him. After all, the healers had assured him it was nothing. Master said so himself.
Qui-Gon could feel the overpowering emotion of anger in Obi-Wan while he waited for the boy to say something. The strength of Obi's hatred came through their shared bond and actually hurt his master physically to feel it. It was like feeling an evil force as it surrounded master and apprentice.
"Oh yes my master I understand perfectly. I understand that you should be by your padawan's side when he needs you. Isn't that what a master does when an apprentice is in need of his help. So please go be with your padawan. I suppose I am in need of nothing from you now."…………………………................................
Jinn hesitated as he tried to decide which padawan needed him most. He finally decided he must see with his own eyes that Xanatos was all right. He left although he knew Obi-Wan was in a rage of jealously and anger.
//It is nothing more than a teenager's temper tantrum. Had Obi-Wan been able to think clearly he would know I did not choose Xani over him. Xani is hurt. I would have done no less for Obi-Wan.//
Still there was a nagging thought that Obi-Wan's rage was more than a mere tantrum. He had never witnessed a Jedi become so wrapped in anger than what Obi-Wan was when he left him. He promised himself he would see to Xanatos and if indeed he was all right he could come straight back to Obi-Wan.
Xanatos was already in the healer's ward when his master came in. The wound was exposed after it had just been cleaned up.
A smile crept over the master's face as he let out a sigh of relief.
"That is a minor scratch Xani. In your younger day you would not have even come here, we would have treated it at home."
"Yes Master Jinn, but since he was in my care, I wanted to be assured that he was alright, before I handed him back too you."
Jinn had forgotten about Plo Koon and he startled him for a moment when he walked up to Jinn. Qui-Gon assumed he was alone with his apprentice.
"Well thank you Master Plo Koon. I take it you two ran into trouble. Did you find the murderer?"
"No it had nothing to do with the man we were looking for. In fact we did not even reach our destination down in the lower levels. We were confronted with Norton Gilroy before we got there."
"Norton Gilroy. He did this? Where is he now?"
"I would suppose at the city morgue. Now before you get so upset, your padawan did not kill him, I did. I had no choice. He had already shot your apprentice once and I am sure he would not have stopped till he saw Xani dead. I kept him from killing your padawan."
Jinn was a little perplexed that Plo Koon used Xanatos' nickname, the one Jinn gave him, but he said nothing. He was glad that Plo Koon kept Xanatos from being killed."
"Then all my gratitude is yours Master Plo Koon. I would have done just as you, I am sure, if I was put in same situation."
"Yes well I will still have to answer to the council about a death of a citizen, however I do not expect a problem. Had it been Xanatos, they might have accused him of getting rid of Gilroy for his own purposes, but I assure you as I will the council that was not the case. Xanatos tried to be more than amicable with the man. He just lost all control. Jealousy is a nasty thing,"
Qui-Gon could only nod his agreement as he watched the healer wrap Xanatos' leg.Master Jinn knew all about jealousy for he left Obi-Wan in a fit of rage anger and jealously to come and be with Xani. He wanted desperately for Xani to finish so he could see Obi-Wan, but he still was not willing to leave his apprentice, even though he knew very well the young man was more than all right. The wound was little more than a scratch for a Jedi.
Mace came into see how Xanatos was and find out what happened. After they had finished talking back and forth between the three masters, Qui looked at the time to see that over an hour had passed.
Xani I think you should go and rest for the remainder of the afternoon; stay off your leg at any rate."
"Fine with me. Master Plo Koon got me up so early anyway."
Xanatos looked at Master Plo Koon and smiled. The normally grumpy master returned the smile. He knew that Xani was joking with him.
"Listen master I would like to ask Master Plo Koon to last-meal, would that be all right?"
Qui-Gon was trapped. He was thankful that Master Plo Koon had assisted his padawan but he had no real desire to have last-meal with him.. They just never seemed to get along. Another reason he did not want him there was Obi-Wan. Nevertheless he could not deny Xanatos his request. He had almost lost the young man. His first inclination was to give him what ever he wanted. He was just happy to have Xanatos alive so he could handle being with Plo Koon for one evening.
Master Plo Koon could sense Qui-Gon's hesitancy.
"I don't think you should pressure your master Xani. He might have other plans tonight."
"No we would welcome your company with us at last-meal. Is seven all right with you?"
"Well thank you and seven is the time I normally eat at home. It will be more than fine."
Mace could not believe he heard what he did. He planned to tease his friend about having Master Plo Koon over for last-meal. He thought he should wait though, until the master had things more under control with Obi-Wan.
##########
By the time Xanatos and his master reached the apartment, it had been well over two hours that Qui-Gon was away after he promised himself he would return to Obi-Wan as quickly as he could after he saw to Xanatos..
Xanatos stumbled over a chair to reach the light. It was totally dark in their apartment. An on coming storm outside along with the pulled drapes made the room with no lights as dark as night.
'Well the least the little one could have done was put a lamp on for us."
"I think we survived getting in. I will go see what Obi-Wan is up too."
"Probably still sulking about his little enlightenment this morning."
Jinn knew very well Xani was taking advantage of his situation to criticize Obi-Wan.
"Don't start Xani. Obi-Wan took everything out of context today and evidently so did you."
"I don't think we did. I think you spoke honestly and it just hurt his ego to hear it. As for me my master I know you better than you know yourself. You could no more leave the Jedi to care for a handicapped child than you could use your saber on me."
"I am not sure which one of my padawans need their ears washed out more, you or Obi-Wan. I said nothing to lead either of you to believe that I am in some way not happy about the way Obi-Wan has progressed so far. I am not contemplating leaving the Jedi order just yet. Obi-Wan still might improve enough to continue his Jedi training."
Jinn wanted very much to shout out the news of Obi-Wan's condition. He wanted so badly to tell Xanatos of the steps Obi had taken and of another piece of his memory returning, but he would not betray Mace and Obi-Wan's confidence.
"Master I know you wanted to agree with me about just encouraging Obi-Wan, although you knew he might never be the way he was before when he was a Jedi apprentice."
"You want to put words and ideas in my mind and mouth that I have never considered. Because you have been injured, I have no wish too argue with you, however I must ask you too stop. I have to clear up this entire mess with Obi and now I think it might have gone so far that it can't be corrected."
Qui-Gon got up to go too his room.
"Master I just don't want you to get your hopes up. I know very well you encouraged Obi-Wan just to give him hope. You don't honestly believe he will be able to recover from all the problems he has now."
Jinn turned on Xanatos in anger.
"You are so wrong Xani. I am pleased with Obi's improvements no matter how large or small they are. I know what you think. You think I have given Obi-Wan false hope. Let me tell you something padawan, there is no such thing as false hope if the person who has that hope has someone who believes in him. Obi-Wan has that, for he has me and I believe in him with all my heart and soul…………………I'm on lunch break so hear it is
I do did feedback on this one. Yes that means all my lurking readers. Delurk on this one for me!!
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Qui-Gon prepared the meal they were to share with Master Plo Koon.
He had not decided how to handle Obi-Wan. He was not sure he wanted the boy at the table with them during last-meal, but yet he was not sure he wanted him not there either. His absence would evoke more questions from Master Plo Koon.
Xanatos hadn't thought of Obi-Wan since he returned from his successful mission. It was more than successful for him because the one man who wanted the investigation done on him was dead. The best part of his death was that Xanatos did not do it so there could be no queries done concerning his death, at least where he was concerned.
Master Plo Koon had proven to be more useful to Xanatos than he could have even imagined. Norton insistence of Xanatos' guilt could never be uttered from his lips again. Xani was "home free".
###That evening:########
Master Plo Koon sat in the common room with Xanatos. Qui-Gon thought it was the first time he had ever in his entire life heard the grump of a master laugh.
Jinn came from the kitchen to the common room. His eyes darted from his padawan and Plo Koon to Obi-Wan's door. He had not had time to speak to the boy since he returned that day and thought he would discuss matters with him that night after the illustrious council master left. He planned to serve Obi-Wan his food in the bedroom opting that would be the safer way to handle him. He did not want Obi-Wan out at the table with them to "spill his guts" to Master Plo Koon about his irrational desire to leave the Jedi order.
Jinn's worries did not prove to be unwarranted. Just as the three Jedi went to the table to sit down for last-meal, the creak of Obi-Wan's door left no doubt that Obi-Wan was going to make his presence known, how, Master Jinn was not sure.
Qui-Gon thought that Obi might have heard the boisterous laughing that came from Xani and Plo Koon. That could be the reason for his unusual desire to come out with his master for last-meal after he had spent the entire day locked in his room.
Qui-Gon watched in numbed silence as Obi-Wan wheeled himself out of his room with a sarcastic smirk planted on his face.
Jinn did not like the way the boy looked. He knew his apprentice well enough to know that trouble was teetering, just waiting to happen. He had the distinct feeling that Obi-Wan planned something more than just having last-meal.
"Master, you did not tell me we were being graced with a council master for last-meal. I would have been out sooner. Did it slip your mind?"
Was that a look of plan defiance on Obi-Wan's face. Jinn tried to think of what Obi-Wan had planned. He was unsuccessful. He would have to tough it out and wait till Obi-Wan made his move before he would know what his little padawan had up his sleeve.
"Yes Obi-Wan you could say that. I thought you would prefer having your meal in your room as you have been."
"No I very much want to visit with Master Plo Koon and Xanatos. I want to hear all about their mission today. Sorry about your injury "Xani"".
Another mischievous smile was flashed at his worried master, but the sound of his voice did not resonate humor.
The sound of anger swelled in Obi's voice as he heavily accented Xani's name with as much disgust as he was able to vocalize. Xani didn't notice it because he was too busy readying himself to tell his tale of glory. Jinn heard the venom in Obi-Wan's voice as clear as could be.
"Oh it was nothing. All the credit has to be given to Master Plo Koon. He beat me to the punch on defense today."
The words said before Xani realized he w was just responding to "stupid" little Obi-Wan. He loved to brag about missions, ever how uncomplicated they were. Once he realized he was talking to Obi-Wan, he also recognized the child's thick venonmous sarcasm. He was not like his master, he welcomed Obi-Wan at the table. Maybe Master Plo Koon could witness some of Obi-Wan's irrationality.
//Maybe Master Plo Koon will find out just irrational and childish Obi-Wan is,// thought Xani.
Master Plo Koon on the other hand wanted to retell the story of their confrontation with Norton Gilroy.
As he told the story, Obi-Wan became agitated by Plo Koon's lavished story and his absolute enjoyment over Norton Gilroy no longer existing. Obi-Wan knew that Gilroy's accusation against Xanatos died with him.
Qui-Gon could feel the emotional turmoil boiling up in Obi-Wan like a cauldron of hot liquid.
"How convenient for you Xani. The one man that could keep you from knighthood is now dead and will carry all his secrets to the grave with him."
Even Master Plo Koon could tell what the boy inferred and he did not care for it.
"I think you, Padawan Kenobi, would be wise to watch your mouth. I hear accusations in the statements you make that I do not care for. I do hope you remember I am a member of the council and my word carries weight there when decisions are made.
He really wasn't one of the more important masters on the council, he liked to overstate his authority.
Qui-Gon did not like the way things were going.
"I only state facts Master Plo Koon. If one is not guilty of anything then surely one would not care what a mere child said. I mean I have no memory, no Jedi powers, and actually no place in the Jedi order at all right now. Surely what I say should not matter."
"Quite truthfully child it should not. But I do know how favored you are in the eyes of a select few on the council. I would not want them to let your jealous lies carry any weight in their decision of Padawan Crion's knighthood. The matter of innocence or guilt of Xani has all but been settled where your master's padawan is concerned. I would think you would mind your manners and keep your mouth shut."
Two times in one day Plo Koon had told Jinn's padawan what to do and Qui-Gon did not care for it. He had to bite his tongue to keep from saying anything.
Of course Obi-Wan's master did not care for Obi-Wan's words any more than he did for Plo Koon's. So far, the only one who had acted civil at the table other than himself had been Xani. However that was about to change.
"It's all right Master Plo Koon. It is just as my master told me, we have to allot for Obi-Wan's confused state. Just as I am sure the council will take in consideration his almost demented condition if he decides to voice those ridiculous accusations to the council masters.. He just doesn't think clearly and of course he suffers from jealousy over my continued training by our shared master."
//Where did Xani get that from, pluck it out of thin air? I never said Obi-Wan was demented or that we had to allow for his diminished mental capacity. He is portraying Obi-Wan as little more than an embecile. Now he has made matters worse.//
Still Master Jinn was hesitant about starting an outright confrontation with both of his padawans in the presence of the one council master who would very much like to see Master Jinn stumble and fall from his state of grace within the Jedi order. Except in Plo Koon's eyes, Qui-Gon was considered the top master in all things at the Jedi temple.
Qui-Gon could tell by the way his "little one" was literally seething that he was about to make a grave error by starting an argument in front of a council master.
Jinn abruptly got up, jerked the fork from Obi-Wan's hand, and actually slammed his padawan's napkin down on the table, after he tore it from Obi-Wan's lap.
"That's about it for the evening fellas. I don't think an all out war between my two padawans is something Master Plo Koon came here to see."
"On the contrary, I had heard of Obi-Wan's incessant and uncontrollable outbursts. Now I can recant them personally to the council when he comes before us."
Jinn was not aware that Mace had notified the council of Obi-Wan's request.
Plo Koon's chilling words in Master Jinn's ears faded away as he said nothing in defense of his apprentice.. He continued to take Obi-Wan to his room. The boy was so shocked at having been pulled from the table that luckily he hadn't regained enough clear thought to say anything nasty in reply to Plo Koon's smart remarks or to Xani proclaiming his idiocy.
Qui-Gon knew it might have seemed rude to leave their guest, but he had no choice. Once in Obi's room Qui-Gon spun his hover chair around with such force it made the teenager dizzy.
"Just what was that little bit of theatrics about Obi-Wan? You want to be assured that you are dismissed from the Jedi. No wait, that is what you want isn't it? Well careflul young man you just may get your wish, acting like that in front of a council member, especially one that has no love for me whasoever. Until or unless the council relinquishes my right as your master you will listen and do everything I tell you. Is that understood?"
"I don't have to do anything, but be the dumb little padawan to Qui-Gon Jinn."
Jinn gritted his teeth and balled his fists up. He had never had such an urge to strike someone as much as he wanted to slap some sense in his padawan right now.
" You may drown in your self pity all you want, but make no mistake Obi-Wan Kenobi, you will do just as I say when I say it. Now I have to go out there and correct some of the mess you have made. What could you have been thinking by accusing Xani of something less than honorable in the death of Gilroy? How dare you. Maybe I won't fight you in front of the council when you ask to be given your freedom from the Jedi. Maybe Xanatos is right. You are a lost cause and I am just beating my head against a stone wall trying to help you with anything."
The words spoken by his master stung Obi-Wan back to reality. When he heard his master say he was a "lost cause" it was like sticking a knife into him and turning it. Obi-Wan did not take into consideration that it was his master now who was not thinking as clearly as he should. Qui-Gon was worried about what Plo Koon would say to the council about Obi-Wan's lack of respect. He let his worry for Obi-Wan blind his thoughts before he spoke.
Jinn left a bewildered and hurt boy alone in his room to think over the shameful things he had just done to totally embarrass his master in front of the most high council Master Plo Koon.
Jinn walked out of Obi-Wan's room to find an even angrier padawan in the common room.
" Master Plo Koon thought it best to take his leave earlier than he had planned. I wonder why?!?! Well Obi-Wan certainly showed himself this night did he not master?"
"I myself was not pleased with Plo Koon telling him to shut up."
"Why master? It was something you should have said to Obi-Wan. He was out of line; you knew it and so did Master Plo Koon The only difference is, Master Plo Koon defended me when Obi-Wan made those accusations. Your only concern evidently was that the child might get into trouble."
"Xani you do not need me to defend you from a fifteen year-old distraught child. You are acting Obi-Wan's age now."
"Is that how you see it? Well master I am sorry you feel that way. Look I am going out for a while."
Jinn normally did not nose in his older padawan's privacy but this was not normal circumstances.
"May I ask where you are going? Is your leg all right?"
"For all your concern and I will take it you are concerned for me, I am going to Master Plo Koon's. We will just be talking and he wants to tell me about his homeworld. I will not be using my leg except to walk to the elavator."
There it was again that pang of jealousy Qui-Gon would feel when Xani exhibited a desire to be around Master Plo Koon instead of him.
The slam of the door echoed through the apartment. Jinn was left with one angry padawan in the bedroom and an even angrier padawan being entertained by his most dangerous adversary at the temple….….Plo Koon!………………….
PEACE ewen
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