############
Obi-Wan noticed when his master first came in that he seemed very quiet. He did not want to interrupt his master's privacy so he did not ask how it went. Jinn was thankful for that. He thought about what Xanatos said and he knew that although he would give up the Jedi for Obi-Wan it would be the hardest thing he would ever do. The only problem with that was when he thought of being without Obi-Wan in his life, that far outweighed the painful thought of abandoning the Jedi.
Qui-Gon never offered a description of how the knighting ceremony went and Obi-Wan did not ask. It was now over!!!!!!
#################
The next day turned out to be a very important one for Obi-Wan. His master removed the force bracelet from his wrist. The rush of the force pulsing through him again was almost overpowering for the little apprentice. He had to bow his head to keep the dizziness under control. His master told him it was normal to feel a little dizzy and even sick. The sick part he did not have but the dizziness lasted the good part of the day.
Obi-Wan had the force now and knew he did, but using it was another thing. That evening and every evening after, his master would give him little tasks to do using the force. They were exercises that the babies in the crèche would use as they developed their force abilities.
Qui-Gon planned to go meet Mace for awhile that evening. He gave Obi-Wan instructions to work on his force manipulations by placing one block on top of another.
Obi-Wan sat on the floor and started to complain to his master that he was giving him baby things to do with his force. A stern look and a speech on how Obi had to start out slow and work his way up stopped the padawan in mid-sentence.
Obi-Wan had his fifth block stacked up with the use of the force when someone knocked at the door. He just yelled for the caller to come in, because the door was unlocked. The padawan looked up to see Xani as he loomed over Obi-Wan with a broad smile on his face.
"Hey "Squirt" is your master home? No, of course he isn't or he would be down on his hands and knees playing blocks with you now wouldn't he?"
Jinn's padawan knew Xanatos wanted to goad him into an argument and he was not going to fall it. However he could not resist one little comment.
"Well I guess you don't have to act your age to be a knight. Otherwise you wouldn't be one would you?"
Just then the com link interrupted the two. Obi-Wan tried to get up but was not successful. He was so nervous because Xanatos was there that he fumbled and slipped back down to the floor.
"Would you mind getting that for me Xani? Just hand me the base I don't need the view screen."
Xanatos laughed out loud because Obi-Wan had fallen, but he did what he was asked. However he didn't before he corrected Obi-Wan for using his first name now that he was a knight and Obi-Wan was a lowly padawan..
"Learn some respect padawan. It is now Knight Crion to you and I can have you reprimanded for not using my proper name."
Obi-Wan only rolled his eyes and held his hand up while he waited on the comm link.
"This is Mr.Careene, Deputy of the Crime Unit on Naboo. I wish to speak with Master Qui-Gon Jinn."
"He is not here at the moment. May I take a message or help you some way."
Obi-Wan did not know what this man wanted, but Xani shuffled his feet nervously back and forth for he had an idea.
"Are you his assitant?"
Kenobi did not know if a padawan to a master constituted as being a assistant or not.
"Well in away I guess I am. I am Master Jinn's padawan."
"Very well please relay this to your master. It concerns Xanatos Crion."
Obi-Wan glanced over at Xanatos and he could tell then that he was visually nervous.
"Tell him we here are quite satisfied with the report on the men the Jedi captured and their deaths. You might say that Master Jinn's friend and companion did us a favor. The three were suspects in a couple of major robberies and even a death. While we are officially closing the case we know how the Jedi are so straight laced and proper and we felt obligated to let Master Jinn know of one little detail that the temple council might be interested in."
"Yes, I am writing this down, go ahead. What was the one little detail?"
Obi-Wan was excited. This sounded like a mystery and what teen didn't love a good mystery.
"Well Padawan Crion stated he had to kill the men in defense of his own life, but when the autopsies where performed, the forensic doctor found that two of the men where shot in the back. Why someone would have to shoot another if he was running away is beyond my understanding, but because the Jedi have always been so helpful to us and the men were as evil as they get, we plan just to quietly close the files. We hope the Jedi remember the favor we have done for one of theirs when we need help from the them again. We will not bring any charges against Padawan Crion from the temple."
Obi-Wan held his breath. What news to get just when Xani stood right there to here what was said. The men were not killed in self defense as Xanatos claimed.
"Thank You Mr. Careene. I am sure my master will get back with you. Thank you also for being so lenient where the Jedi Crion is concerned."
Obi-Wan held Xanatos in his view as he spoke again. The knight returned his gaze as sweat literally poured off his face.
"I am sure my master will be anxious to receive this news."…………………
.The click of the comm link signaled that Obi-Wan's conversation was over.
Obi never let his eyes loose contact of Knight Crion. The apprentice was afraid of this man who evidently he did not know just as his master must have no inkling that Xanatos was truly capable of out and out murder.
Xanatos eyed the padawan suspiciously and looked at the front door. He hoped Jinn would not come in before he finished. He had a choice of two things. First he would try to reason with Obi-Wan. Then if that didn't work Obi-Wan would have to be done away with permanently.
"Well what is your plan now "little" Obi?"
The apprentice tried to hide his fear but the squeak in his voice kinda gave him away.
"I would not think you would be in a position to be so rude to me Xani."
Xanatos was furious over Obi-Wan using his nickname, especially after he had just given Obi-Wan a reprimand for using it. He had no choice though but to ignore it. He wanted to know what Obi-Wan planned to do with the information he had just received.
"Well kid what are you going to do, run to the council to have me expelled?"
"I don't have to go to the council, I will tell my master. I mean it is not like I am lying. He can verify what I say by Mr. Careene, if he wishes too."
"Think you are smart don't ya kid. Think you have out and out won my master over. If Qui-Gon finds out the truth about me, it will kill him. You will have to kiss your Jedi training goodbye. He will leave the order without you and then no other master will take you. Where you think you will be then. You will be lucky if you get to pull weeds from a garden."
Obi-Wan did not know if Xani was trying to scare him or not, but he did think that the hurt Jinn would feel would be awful for his master to go through.
"Xanatos even if I felt my master should not be told this because of the harm it would do to him, we could not keep this from the council."
Xanatos thought he might be getting somewhere going this route to convince Obi-Wan to keep his secret. At least it would buy him some time to figure out what to do with the boy.
"That Careene fellow won't be calling Master Jinn or the council any more. As far as he is concerned the matter is closed, finished unless you see fit to continue it. It will kill your master you know. If you feel nothing for me, think of Qui-Gon."
Obi-Wan let his anger take over.
"Don't call him that. Use master before his name. You are not even worthy to speak his name let alone be worthy of another chance that the council gave you. Just how many people did you really kill? Were there others? Of course there was and then the prisoners. For sith's sake Xani you've killed an army of men. Those prisoners didn't come up missing did they? That Gilroy man that Master Plo Koon killed knew the truth. He even spoke it and you had the council and my master fooled."
Obi-Wan could not imagine a supposed Jedi could have committed so many murders.
//This will kill my master when he finds out. He will leave the order and in a sense it will be my fault. The damage is already done. How can I do that to Master Jinn after all he has done for me?//
"Just what would I have to do Xanatos. I mean for my master not to find out."
"Quite simple Obi-Wan. You have to keep this a secret. If Jinn finds out there is no telling what will happen to him. I mean he could go into a state of depression, leave the order, or maybe…maybe even think of sucide. He will think he has failed in my apprenticeship. He will put all the blame on himself. You know how he is."
Yes Obi-Wan did know how his master was about Xani. He had just started to get over the guilt of his former padawan's wayward actions and this had to happen.
//Master could not stand this. If he harmed himself because I told on Xanatos then I could only blame myself.//
Obi-Wan had his force but did not know to use it well enough to reach for it and ask the force to give him guidance in his decision.
Now it was Obi-Wan's turn to sweat. He wrung his hands as he tried to think of the right thing to do. Just then footsteps could be heard on the outside of the door.
"He is here Obi-Wan. What are you going to do? I have to know and know now boy. What is it going to be? Do we an agreement or are you going to kill Jinn with your news?"
Obi-wan bit his lip until he drew blood.
He whispered his next words.
"Very well for now Xanatos, for I can't think clearly. The only thing I will promise you is that if I decide to tell my master I will tell you first so you can talk with him. One thing more Xanatos. Make sure you understand I do not do this for you. I would do anything to protect my master and that is the only reason I am doing it."
"Sure right kid that will work. Well before you telll him you better think it over for several days , because your and his life depends on it. Maybe more than mine does. I have had no charges pressed against me so I am home free."
Just as Xani whispered his last words to Obi-Wan the door swung opened to a very surprised Master Jinn.
"Xanatos, I mean Knight Crion, what brings you here?"
Xanatos tried to shake off his fear and sound normal.
"First Master Jinn, don't be so formal. I am still Xanatos to you. I came hear to make peace with Obi-Wan. He just showed me how well he is doing with his force back, weren't you Obi-Wan?"
"What? Yea sure. That is what I was doing master."
Obi-Wan could not believe he had just agreed with Master Jinn's former padawan to hide the truth from his master. He had to have time to think all this through. It still would not be too late to tell Qui-Gon in the morning after Obi-Wan thought things through tonight.
"Well Xanatos I think Obi has more work to do. Our time is almost at hand for the council to reassess him."
"That's another reason I am here. I came to offer Obi-Wan any assistance I can in helping him recover more fully. If you need me as long as I am at the temple, just give me a call."
"Thank You Xani. That is very thoughtful of you. I will keep your offer in mind."
Jinn thought his offer was nice if in fact it was sincere, but he was not sure of that sincerity. Xanatos always seemed to surprise his master even now.
"Then I will leave you and Obi to your work. Later Master."
Xanatos walked out just a nonchalantly as he walked in; confident in himself that Obi-Wan would be unwilling to tell Master Jinn for fear of the hurt it would cause him. It had bought the knight some time to figure out what he should do with the "brat".
Jinn looked down at his padawan on the floor and the first thing he noticed was how very pale he looked. He also thought he could see Obi-Wan's hands tremble as he put the blocks back in their box.
"Are you alright Obi?"
"Yes I think so.I just feel well….. Master I think I need to go to the fresher. I'm afraid gulp….. I am going to be sick."
Jinn saw his padawan fight to hold back his illness until he made it to the fresher. Without another thought he scooped Obi-Wan up in his powerful arms and carried him to the fresher. After he sat him down, Obi-Wan sunk to the floor because of his weak legs.They were not just weak because of the paralysis, they were weak with fear for what he had just done. He emptied quite possibly everything he had eaten that day and maybe more from his stomach.
Qui-Gon stayed with the boy and wiped his forehead with a damp cloth. He left the cool cloth on Obi's head holding it gently with his oversized hand. Obi-Wan leaned into his master's touch and rested his forehead in the palm of Qui-Gon's hand as he waited to finish his unpleasant task of vomiting.
//I hope Obi-Wan is not coming down with the flu. Timing is everything to us right now. Hopefully it is just something he ate that did not settle on his stomach//.
No, Obi-Wan did not have the flu, he had a case of guilt. Guilt that would have to be thought through and then a decision made about it. Obi-Wan knew he couldn't go through feeling this way very long.…………
/Two days left before we go before the council and still very little progress in both Obi-Wan's use of the force and his walking abilities.//
In fact if anything Obi-Wan had regressed. The boy seemed listless not as enthused with his lessons in the force. Qui-Gon mistakenly thought it was because Obi was given such little tasks in the force. He gave him more advanced usage for it and still nothing.
//He seems to have lost his will to become a Jedi. Even his eating habits have been affected. I have to practically shove food down his throat to get him to eat. What's going on?//
The master was in his bedroom dressing for the day. He was determined to find out what was going on. He also wanted to check with Master Darue to find out what he thought about Obi-Wan's progress.
They ate and Jinn decided he would personally take his apprentice to the healers. He had of late started allowing Obi-Wan to wheel himself to the healers, but that would not be the case today.
Obi-Wan solemnly went into the practice gym where he did everyday for his session with Master Darue.
The healer master started to turn to go in but Jinn waylaid him as he took his arm and asked him for a second of his time.
"Master Darue I have a question for you and I would rather not discuss this in front of my padawan."
"Yes what is it?"
"Does Obi-Wan seem to lack the enthusiasm he once had. I mean he has been …I don't know just listless, less focused on the chores before him."
"Well his progress with me has stalled out. I was going to mention it today if there was no advancement in his skills after our workout. I do not wish to intrude on your personal business with you and your apprentice, but has there been a fight between the two of you? Are you not getting along as well as you had been?"
"No the oppostie is true. Things have been going well with us. Well I thought they had. However something has changed. The boy will hardly take three bites of his food each meal. If it continues I will have to bring him to you for that as well."
"This is worrisome Qui-Gon. I mean I thought with the bracelet off he would feel much better as he adjusted to feeling the force. Do you think the force could have anything to do with it?"
"No I truthfully don't. He felt a little ill after he regained it then he started right in and did the practice lessons in the usage of the force."
There was one night when Xanatos came for a visit Obi-Wan became ill. He got sick once and then nothing. I thought it was just something he ate because it did not last long."
"Well I suggest you bring him in for a physical and have a talk with him. Maybe he needs to be reminded just how important his progress is. Then again maybe the stress of doing so much is getting to him."
"No I will talk with him later today. He welcomed the challenge. We agreed we would go through this together. I don't think that's it. Until the other day, a couple of days after Xanatos' knighting, the boy was all for working as hard as he could to be a Jedi.. Now he doesn't seem to care if he is one or not."
Jinn left with at least the satisfaction that he knew he had discussed the problem with Master Darue and he noticed the same thing in Obi-Wan as Qui-Gon did.
//So it is not imagination.//
Jinn wished that the council would have given him a class today. He wanted to talk to Obi-Wan after his session with Master Healer Darue, but he was anxious he knew the time would drag by.
//I would have even welcomed a class of five-year olds with a training saber than to do nothing for three hours.//
An idea came to Jinn. He had neglected his apartment since Obi-Wan had been injured.
//That's what I will do. Give the old place a thorough cleaning. It certainly needs it.//
#####Back in a training room right beside where Obi-Wan was###
Knight Xanatos Crion stood off to the side and watched a class of senior padawans practice katas and various saber moves.
Well I had a choice of this class or the little ones. Now I am not that cruel to hurt a small one. After all I am a Jedi knight now.
Xanatos smiled evilly. His personality had changed lately. More of the dark side seem to find its way to the knight. It controlled his actions and his thoughts.
A Jedi could not walk on the edge of the dark side without one day being influenced by it. That is what happened to Xanatos. He had edged himself too far on the side of the dark and it claimed him totally. Any desire he ever had to do good was non-existent now.
Xani centered his concentration on a pair of boys as they practiced their saber techniques.
The boys noticed the knight watching them and they increased tempo of their battle to impress the newly knighted Xanatos Crion. Xani in the mean time waited for just the right moment to implement his diabolical plan.
One boy saw his chance to parry forward and lunge his saber in a mock hit to the chest of the other padawan. Just as he went forward, Knight Crion gave him a force shove with all his might.
It was enough force to cause the saber to actually pierce the skin of the padwan being attacked.
A scream rang through the training hall and the boy dropped to the ground. It was not a mortal wound but it needed treated.
The instructor ran to the boy. The other padawan who had done the damage dropped his saber and stared down at what he thought he had done.
Crion saundered up slowly.
"I have to get this boy help." The instructor spoke to no one in particular. It was just a statement of fact.
Xanatos bent over the injured padawan and the instructor. The instructor yelled.
"I need a healer."
Xanatos was the next one to speak.
"Allow me Instructor Morris. I know for a fact that Master Healer Darue is in the next room working with Master Jinn's padawan. I'll get him."
"Thank You! Hurry!!!"
####Back in the Jinn apartment####
I guess I will start with the kitchen, then I will clean the common room.
Jinn took off his robe and outer tunic. He was determined to keep his mind off of Obi-Wan and their problems this morning.
####In the training room where Obi is####
Padawan Kenobi was about to try to walk again. He had just gotten himself back up from falling. The doors to the gym flew opened and slammed against the wall.
"Knight Xanatos what is the matter?"
The noise had drawn Master Darue's attention and he saw Xanatos run through the double doors.
"One of the padawans in the next training room has been injured, a wound to his chest. The instructor told me to get a healer and I started to the healers ward when I remembered you were here, right next door."
"Yes well I will go to him. Could you stay here with Obi-Wan until I can send for his master."
Xanatos plastered the smile that seemed so evil, on his face. Obi-Wan noticed the darkness in Knight Crion. Why couldn't Master Darue see it?
"I would be glad to stay with him. Now hurry. The instructor said to come quickly."
That was at least the truth but the entire thing was set up so that Xanatos could get to Obi-Wan, with no one around.
#back in the Jinn apartment#
Qui-Gon found that the kitchen was not in as much need of cleaning as he thought. He moved to the common room. Obi-Wan did keep that room a mess. He started by picking up papers that were strewn around the room.
[]Obi-Wan must use the waste basket as a basketball hoop for balled up class work.. Look how many times he missed.[/i]
Jinn smiled and bent down to pick up the paper. One piece drew his attention and so he unballed the note. It had his name on it and it was dated the day Xanatos visited the Jinn/Kenobi household.
What is this, a note from the Crime Director on Naboo.I didn't get this.
The master sat down and preceeded to read the note that Obi-Wan had taken from Mr. Careene, but Jinn never got until now.
####back with Obi-Wan and Xanatos####
Obi-wan looked at Xanatos. He saw no reason not to believe the knight but he saw something in him he did not like. He decided to tell Xani anyway what he had decided to do.
"Well now that we are together alone I might as well tell you what I have decided."
"No let me tell you. The do-good-Jedi that you are makes it imperative that you tell Master Jinn the truth. Am I right?"
Obi-Wan just stayed where he was without uttering a word.
Xanatos yelled his next statement.
"Well what is it. I am right aren't I? You think I am going to allow you to destroy my place in the Jedi order. No one needs to know this. I plan to never kill again. Well I won't if you go along with my plan."
Obi-Wan knew exactly what he meant. He would kill Obi if he did not agree to keep silent. Obi thought at first he could trick the knight.
Obi-Wan words stumbled because of his cotton-mouth that almost stuck together as he spoke.
"You want me to keep silent about what happened. I mean I will if you think that's best."
Obi tried to con Xanatos into believing he would do things his way, but now Xani knew the boy planned to tell. Just as soon as he got away from Xanatos he would run to his master.
Xanatos could not allow that.
####In the Jinn/Kenobi apartment###
Jinn dropped th paper he had just read and rested his head in both hands.
I can't believe it. What Norton Gilroy claimed of Xanatos, is the truth. He must have.He killed the others to keep them silent. HOW!! WHY!! Oh Xani how could you have done this to yourself. I have to report this to the council.
Then Jinn realized that Xanatos must have been there when Obi-Wan got the message.
Why didn't Obi give this too me? Did Xani threaten him? What is going on here?
Jinn was almost as upset to know Obi did not give him the note as he was about finding out about Xanatos.
Qui-Gon decided he would go to Obi-Wan and interrupt his session with Darue. What he found would have to be addressed immediately. He had to know exactly what both padawans, present and past, were doing by keeping this too themselves and not telling Master Jinn.
Jinn walked down the temple hall with a little more jest in his speed. He was curious as to what went on that night Xanatos was there. While Obi-Wan did not lie to him, he was not forthright with his master. Jinn should have received the message as soon as Obi-Wan got it.
It is not like Obi-Wan to blatanly deceive me.
Qui-Gon walked past the healer's ward. He looked up just in time to see a padawan being rolled into a med unit as Master Darue followed.
Darue saw Jinn at the same time.
"Oh Qui-Gon we have had a slight emergency and I got called away from Obi-Wan."
Jinn looked at the boy on the gurney.
"I hope the injury is not serious."
"Not life threatening but I felt it needed attention right away."
"No problem I wanted to talk to Obi-Wan anyway. It is kind of urgent."
"You will still find him in the training hall. Xanatos is with him."
Jinn did not know why but his stomach churned and did a flip.
"Xani? WHY?"
Darue was in a hurry to get to his patient and he talked very quickly as he followed the boy to his room.
"Luck would have it, Xanatos was in the training room when the boy got hurt. He offered to stay with Obi-Wan until I could contact you. Sorry I have to tend to him now."
Jinn was in a hurry too. In the back of his mind sheer fear and panic gripped him. He for some reason did not like the idea of Xani being with Obi-Wan, especially if Xanatos was a aware of the communiqué sent from Naboo. Jinn's fast-paced walk turned into an outright run as he rushed to get his padawan.
####In the training room with Xani and Obi####
Obi-Wan noticed that Xanatos continually kept his right hand down and hidden within his Jedi rope. The postion seemed odd.
Obi-Wan tilted his head to the side to see if Xanatos was hiding something.
"Curious are you Obi about what I plan to do?"
From out of the robe Xani drew a short metal pipe.
"Well I will just have to tell you. I am going to crack your head wide open just at the base line of the skull in the back. Don't worry your death will be instant. Then I am going to place you right there on that little step of your exercise contraption and tell Master Jinn that you lost your balance and hit the back of your head on the wood flooring. Boom you're dead and I remain a knight. How's that Obi-Wan, like my plan?"
Obi-Wan became terrified. Xani would resort to killing anyone to keep his secret intact.
"Do you think I am crazy enough just to let you hit me in the right spot without putting up a fight?"
"No not really."
Xanatos raised his left hand, the one free without the weapon and waved it in Obi-Wan's direction. The child was immediately put in a force hold.
"You really should learn how too use your force better Obi-Wan. Had you thought fast enough, you could have blocked my force hold. Now I am afraid you can do nothing but stand there and wait for the blow. Don't worry. Like I said it will instant and painless. At least I think it will. No matter I have to do it."
Just then the double doors of the training room swung open and Master Jinn entered out of breath and terrified for his padawan.
Qui-Gon yelled from a crossed the room when he saw Xanatos had a weapon in his hand while he advanced toward Obi-Wan.
"DROP IT XANATOS AND STEP AWAY FROM MY APPRENTICE!!!!!"
: ewen "AAH! Master Jinn to the rescue. Are you playing the knight in shining armor for little Obi now?"
"This is not a game. I want you to release Obi-Wan right now. You will just be in more trouble if you harm him."
Xanatos laughed out loud.
"Master, Master, I have killed at least thirty men. Do you think one more little boy is going to send me to the electric chair."
Qui-Gon winced as if in pain when Xanatos rattled off the number of people he had killed to protect himself from being found out. Master Jinn thought he would be sick. He pushed his sickness down and tried again to reason with Xani for his padawan, Obi-Wan's life.
"Look I will help you Xanatos just release the boy."
"Help me. Master I wanted your help before and you shunned me in favor of this one. No he will die. My knighthood pales in comparsion to doing away with this boy who has ruined my life.He just keeps ruining it. Had he agreed to keep quiet about this mess, I was prepared to let him live. But no. He had to be the good little Jedi. Had I let him go he would have run straight to you."
"Look Xanatos I didn't need for Obi-Wan to tell me. I found the note he wrote when the Deputy called. I know what you did. There is no reason to harm Obi-Wan now. The truth is out but not by him."
"No reason. I have every reason. He has been a thorn in my side since I returned to the temple. He has to pay master. He will too with his life. Then I will have done you a favor too. I will have set you free from this stone around your neck. You don't need this invalid to care for."
Jinn sent waves of assurance to Obi-Wan and the boy could get it now because he had the force back. He could not however get loose from the force hold that Xanatos had put him in. He could only stare at his master and hope that Qui-Gon could get him out of this.
Jinn started to edge closer to Xanatos as he kept talking to him. He tried to reason some more with Xanatos but he was getting no where. He inched closer to his former apprentice in hopes of launching an attack on the man that held Obi-Wan captive.
Xanatos anticipated the chance that his master would try to jump him. Just as he started to draw his saber, Obi-Wan let out a blood-curdling scream to warn his master. The scream startled Xani and he released his hold on Obi. The boy fell to the ground because of his useless legs. Jinn dodged the strike of the saber Xanatos threw at him.
"Don't make me fight you master. I really don't want too but I have no choice if you do not agree to side with me. I can even let Obi-Wan live if you can convince him to keep quiet."
"Obi-Wan and I are both Jedi, Xanatos. We can't do that and live our lives with any as semblance of peace. You have to be punished for what you have done. Even if it is only being put out of the Jedi order, it has to be done."
Jinn dodged another strike of the saber.
Obi-Wan could see the training sabers on the other wall. Jinn backed the other way and he did not notice the sabers hanging there.
The two, master and former apprentice ended up on the ground fighting hand to hand. They were behind some gym equipment and Obi could not tell what was going on.
He knew he needed to get to the sabers. They would not land a death blow, but they were strong enough to stun someone if powered as high as the training saber would go.
Padawan Kenobi pulled himself up to a standing position by using his hover chair. If he was to walk half way across the room to get the sabers then he would do it without the help of something to hold onto. It was something he had never really done. He needed balance, or he thought he did.
Obi-Wan gathered all the force he had in his body and made the first step. He did not fall. It was extremely difficult for him to balance himself and pull the stiff legs along but he did. He made another step, then another.
Obi-Wan did not think of what he had accomplished by walking. His concern was for his master who was still on the floor battling Xanatos.
Obi-Wan had been successful in traveling at least ten steps, about half the distant he needed to go. He watched as Xanatos got off his master and picked up his saber. Jinn got off the floor and waited. Xanatos had him literally trapped in a corner, his saber leveled directly at the master.
Xanatos almost had tears in his eyes as he pleaded with his master.
"I beg you Qui-Gon, side with me. I have no wish to kill you but I will. Then after that I will do away with your padawan. How's that? Is that what you want, your death and his? "
"I am sorry Xani but you ask too much of me. I will not turn to the dark side with you."
Obi looked from his master to the sabers. His master needed a weapon but the boy had worn himself walking only half the distant. Then Obi-Wan thought of an idea, the force. If Xanatos could put a force hold on him and Obi-Wan could move blocks through mid-air, why couldn't he summons the force to help him float the saber to his master.
Kenobi closed his eyes and focused on the force within him. Nothing, The saber did not move. He tried again and still nothing.
Xanatos stood and waited for his master. He hoped Qui-Gon would change his mind before he would be forced to kill him.
Obi-wan tried one more time. He gritted his teeth, balled his hands in fists, and thought he would blow his head off because he concentrated so hard on moving that saber to send it too his master.
Just then the training saber popped off the wall and floated to his master. Xanatos' back was turned to Obi-Wan and he did not see it. His master did though and he talked to Xanatos to bide his time until the saber floated to him.
Just then the master reached out and grabbed the saber, powering it up as he took it in his hands.
"Our battle is not so lop-sided now is it master. I won't feel as guilty when I land the death blow." You sure you won't change your mind?"
"I am sure Xani and don't worry about being lop-sided I plan to beat your butt all over this gym and then turn you for to the council so they can do with you what they will."
"That only fueled Xanatos' anger for his master.
They both started almost instantaneously using their sabers to deflect the blows of the other.
The battle went back and forth. One would make a hit then the other. Qui-Gon grew weary of this game with Xanatos. He landed a blow to Xanatos' upper arm and then ran past him. His momentum caused Jinn hit the wall with his feet, twisted his body sideways and vaulted over Xanatos. He landed behind Xanatos. Before Xani had a chance to turn around and fight his master. The master judo chopped him in the back of the neck. That did Xanatos in. He fell to the ground, passed out from the blow he sustained at the hand of his master, Qui-Gon Jinn…………….
Jinn rushed over to where Obi-Wan's had fallen when his legs finally gave out on him.
He pulled his padawan up in his arms and continued to secure him in such a bear hug Obi thought he would loose his breath, but right now he didn't care. He was glad his master was alright. He still did not realize he could walk..
"You did it Obi-Wan. You not only walked you used the force to send me that saber. That's how I defeated Xanatos. I knew you would be alright."
"Hey I guess I did walk to the sabers. Well walked half of the way."
Master what will we do now?"
Jinn placed Obi-Wan back in his chair and his padawan followed him over to where Xanatos was just starting to regain consciousness. Jinn hurriedly put a force hold on him as Xanatos had done Obi-Wan earlier. He called for temple guards and looked down at Xanatos.
" We will go tell the council the truth, nothing more. Tell me Obi-Wan how did you think to use the force when everything was so hectic around you?"
"Well I guess we should thank Xanatos for that master."
Xani looked up at Obi-Wan to see what he meant. He was still dizzy from the lick Jinn gave him, but he wanted to find out just what Obi was talking about.
"How's that padawan?"
"When he put me in the force hold, he said I should have thought ahead and used my force to stop him. Well I didn't use the force wisely then but I remembered what he said about using the force and I did, use it I mean. I used it to float the saber to you. I guess I should thank you Xani."
Obi-Wan didn't care. He called Xanatos by his nickname only too upset him. He had no cares now. His master was there and everything else had started to come together.
Xanatos was led away.
####
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were called to an emergency meeting of the temple council. Word had traveld fast about Xanatos and the council wanted the facts from Qui and Obi and not the idle gossip being circulated throughout the temple.
Of course master and padawan were given the opportunity to freshen up before going before the council. They still would have to go before them in two days for Obi-Wan's reassessment.
Obi-Wan was concerned for his master. He knew it must have hurt him a lot to realize Xani had killed so many people and had finally turned to the dark side. Obi-Wan wondered what Master Plo Koon would have to say about the turn of events in he and Xanatos' life.
I guess Master Plo Koon won't have a hot shot knight to conquer the galaxies with.
Obi-Wan knew it was not polite but he giggled over the thought of Plo Koon and his missions he had planned for he and his Xani.
Qui-Gon and his padawan waited in the hall just outside the council chambers. They would be called in to recant what went on between the three of them in the training room.
Obi-Wan seemed more nervous than usual.
"Do I look alright master?"
He had fussed with his hair, adjusted his braid back and over his shoulders, and double wiped his mouth to make sure no food particles was left there inadverntly from mid-meal.
Jinn smiled at his padawan and ruffled his head. That brought a grunt and complaint from Obi-Wan who had spent the last ten minutes styling the spiked head of hair.
"You look fine Obi-Wan. It is not in the Jedi mantra to be vain. I don't think the council has called us here to go over your appearance."
"You never know master. One little thing could be out of place and Master Plo Koon might file some kind of grievance against it. I mean I don't think he likes me very much."
"Doesn't really matter what he thinks of you Obi-Wan. The entire council is in there and they will assess what happened today. Of course I plan to tell them you saved my life."
Obi-Wan blushed, but this time it was not of embarrassment of a bad kind but a pleasant embarrassment of sorts. To have his master boast of what he did made the padawan even happier. He just hoped he would be as happy when he left the temple chambers.
This had become common practice for Obi-Wan to be before the council with his master. He hoped one day it would change if he was blessed enough to be permitted to continue training under his master.
That was not why they were there now though. It was to explain the circumstances of the fight his master and former padawan got into.
Padawan Kenobi sat silently in his chair as Master Jinn went over every little detail, up and including the part where Obi-Wan withheld information that should have been given to Master immediately. Qui-Gon was a bit worried about that part but he had no choice. It had to be done the correct way. Now more lies, not from Xanatos, Obi-Wan or him. He also told of how Obi-Wan came to his rescue when he needed it the most.
When finished with his statement, Qui-Gon bowed and stepped back to his place along side his apprentice.
All the council masters were in too much shock to say anything right away except for one, Master Plo Koon.
"My question Master Jinn. How is it that the master that all Jedi hold in such high esteem and with his supposedly immense connection with the living force, was hoodwinked by a mere padawan?"
Jinn looked at Plo Koon almost daring the master to say anything else. In fact he held his hand up as if to silence Master Plo Koon.
"I turn the question right back to you Master Plo Koon. Have you now stopped the idol worship of my former padawan that you had just had yesterday and previous days before?"
"Enough it is Master Jinn. Here to attack Master Plo Koon we are not. But Master Plo Koon should remember here we are not to attack Master Jinn also. The truth we seek that is all. Seems we have it. Anything to say have you Padawan Kenobi?"
Obi-Wan looked deep into his grandmaster's eyes. He wanted to know what Master Yoda needed from him but he just could not judge by Yoda's reaction to all this.
"I have nothing to say Master Yoda, but to verify all that my master has said is true."
Plo Koon spoke up again.
"We should not judge one padawan without judging the other before us. After all Master Jinn has been in some way bonded with Obi-Wan since he came here when he was two years old,.. Maybe that bond interrupted his bond with Xanatos. That is why he turned to the dark."
Mace immediately spoke in defense of his friend.
"That is bull and you know it Plo Koon. Master Jinn kept the bond with Obi-Wan practically dormant until he could take Obi-Wan as his padawan.. He has always been more than fair to Xani. Maybe too fair. I think he may have let emotions guide him at times with Xani. But you yourself did not see the dark in Knight Crion. You wanted to train Xanatos. Do not accuse Qui-Gon of being anything other than a loyal master to both boys. One is of the light and one was of the dark, only the dark one hid it quite well."
"I wash my hands of all this. Do what you will to Xanatos Crion, but remember you have to judge Master Jinn's other apprentice in two days. Be just as hard on him as you have been on Xanatos this day."
"Matter of Padawan Kenobi to be settled today it is."
"Who decided that, Master Jinn or worse yet are you letting Obi-Wan tell the temple council when he wants to be assessed?"
Plo Koon was a difficult person to deal with when he wanted to be.
"Decided I did Master Plo Koon. Objections you have the council will take note of them. Anyone to object also speak or continue I will with Obi-Wan Kenobi"
The other masters around the table seemed to nod their agreement to Yoda continuing and waited to see if Plo Koon had more objections to voice. No one said a word. Plo Koon was livid with anger but he seemed to know he had pushed Master Yoda to a certain point and it was not wise to push him further..
"Come forward you will Padawan Kenobi. Fear no one at this table you should. We here serve the goodness of the force. There is no dark amongst us NOW……………………"
Obi-Wan rolled himself forward and waited for the masters to start their interrogation. How is how Obi saw it anyway. This meeting right now would decide his fate. It was not planned and it took the apprentice by complete surprise. In a way though, he welcomed it. It would be decided very shortly what his fate would be. Just for a moment as he waited for Yoda to start, Padawan Kenobi wondered if his master would truly leave the Jedi order for him. He was torn between wanting his master to leave with him or to allow his master to remain where he really did belong with the Jedi order.
"Before us your fate is be decided. Have anything to say in you defense do you?"
"No master These last two weeks have been very trying not just for me but for my master. Then of course it ws complicated by Xanatos' corruption and my misdeeds of covering it up."
Plo Kon waited like a tiger to jump the boy. He saw his chance with the lie he told his master about the message.
"Would you care to explain Padawan Kenobi how you can jusity yourself when it comes to telling your master a lie?" Jedi do not lie."
"I did not tell my master a lie, I just kept the truth from him for awhile. I did it because I feared the news of Xanatos' failings would break his heart."
Master Yoda spoke very gently to Obi-Wan.
"Avoid the truth, keep it hidden, then lie it was child. However Master Plo Koon stated wrongly he did. Not many of us here lie we have not. Reason for it good then sometimes an unspoken truth necessary it is to protect others. Do not condone I do but condemn your situation I will not."
Obi-Wan let out a little sigh of relief. At least his grand master tried to help him a little.
" I know Master Yoda. I will remember that. I still have a lot to remember about my past and the Jedi. It is coming back though, as is my walking ability. I know I won't be totally healed when it is time for the masters to take new apprentices in two days, however I truly believe I am on my way to a speedy recovery with both of my obstacles. I ask to be allowed to remain a Jedi apprentice under Master Qui-Gon Jinn's teaching. We make a good team."
Obi-Wan couldn't help but notice his last sentence brought a smile to a couple of the masters, including Master Mace and Master Gallia. He thought that had to be good for him.
Yoda got up out of his chair and came around to the front of the large circular desk that the council sat behind.
There before the table was a raised podium stand with steps. Yoda always used this podium to talk on because it increased his height.
He started to say something when he was abruptly interrupted by Master Yaddle.
"Master Yoda, beg your pardon I do. I have one question I do for Padawan Kenobi if allowed it is."
It was rare for Master Yaddle spoke up in one of these proceedings.
"Speak you will master. Welcome your foresight and guidance we always do."
Master Yoda was very polite to Master Yaddle because he truly did honor her opinion and if the truth was known he had a little crush on his fellow species.
"Remember you do the speech you gave last time before us you were?"
Obi-Wan turned to face Master Yaddle. He did remember very well the speech he gave on compassion, courage and love.
"Yes Master Yadldle I remember it very well."
"Still stand by what you said then Padawan?"
"I am sorry Master Yaddle, what do you mean stand by it?."
"Stand by your words do you still? Or perhaps they were just that, "words". Please believe me Padawan, question your beliefs I do not. What you did for your master should make you more than worthy to be a padawan. Still even with your recovery not final, wonder I do, speak truth of the Jedi you did."
All things seem to fall together for Obi-Wan. It was just such as easy question but he had made it hard. All he had to do was speak from his heart and that is exactly what he did.
Obi-Wan's cheeks, still graced with baby fat on them, pinked up.
"AAH!!! I got ya now Master Yaddle, I think I can answer that question without hesitation now. What I said before the council last time here was what I believed. Master Jinn gave me the courage to help in his battle. The compassion that a JedIi needs was always there for that is why I witheld the truth; the compassion I had for my master.
Love, I did say love was important didn't I? Well that goes without answering you. My love for my master gave me the courage to battle Xani and compassion for my master, to see that he is never hurt physically or mentally again."
Obi-Wan waited a minute before he spoke again.
"I guess the best way to sum all this up is this. I have enough compassion for my master to know his place will always be with the Jedi. I love my master enough not to hold him to his statement that he would leave the order if I had too. And finally Master Yaddle, I have the courage to walk away from here alone knowing my master would stay to do good in a world of evil. I can do all that now where I could not do it before. Do not however give credit to the force I have just been given back. I credit all that I am to my master."
This little padawan did have a gift for gap, when it came to impressing the masters' before him. Yoda did not see it a trickery with words. Obi-Wan had spoken from the heart and every master including one who would never admit it, knew of Obi's sincerity. A person with so much good in his heart could not be cut from the Jedi order. He was a perfact example of what the Jedi built their existence on, with or without the force.
Master Yaddle nodded her satisfaction to Obi-Wan's answer.
"If question one of the masters did before of your worthiness for the Jedi then now they should not child. I will vote for you to stay within the Jedi order under the care of Master Jinn."
The little master sat back down.
Yoda solemnly nodded his head with his agreement as did several other masters.
"One more task I have for you grand padawan if allow me you will."
"If I can do it I will try to do what you want."
Obi-Wan looked at his grandmaster who stood before him."
"Walk to me you will."
Obi-Wan was shocked, He had already told the masters that he was not fully healed. He was worn out just from what he had done earlier. He was not sure he could do what Master Yoda asked.
Master Jinn spoke up.
"Mster Yoda I mean no respect but I think Obi-Wan is too tired to do what you want."
Yoda only shooed Master Jinn away with a wave of his little snarled hand..
"Ask you if too tired he is I did not. Ask the boy I did. Padawan Kenobi you have been around me enough you have, since a wee babe you were. Know better you do to say try. There is no try only do. Willing are you to do what I request.?"
Jinn started to protest again until he felt the small hand of his apprentice on his arm.
Obi-Wan looked at his master while he spoke to Master Yoda.
"Yes Master Yoda I will do what you ask."
Obi-Wan raised himself up on his wobbly legs. The shakiness in them was increased because of his tiredness. Obi-Wan waited a moment and balanced himself with the arms of his hover chair.
In his mind he called to the force again. He was not surprised, as he thought to himself, he felt his master's gentle entrance into his mind and the gentle prodding forward that he encouraged his padawan with.
I can do this.
//I have no doubt Obi-Wan. Remember I am here behind you now just reach for the force and it will not fail you if you are true to its calling//.
Obi-Wan did just as his master said. One step then another then another. Finally he reached the podium that his grand master stood on. He saw the familiar loving arms of Master Yoda's that held him when he was small. It had been Master Yoda who cuddled him at night when Jinn was on missions, when the boy was no more than four years old. Obi-Wan just then remembered how much love Yoda had for him.
As Yoda's arms stretched out Obi-Wan stretched his also. He fell into the arms of the person who loved him the most next to his master. Yoda was there to whisper praise to the little padawan.
"Shown you have more than worthy you are. Padawan to Master Qui-Gon Jinn I deem you to remain. Anyone on the council to object then do it now or so be it."
The room remained silent. Jinn looked a little ridculous with the smile that pressed all over his face. He went up and took an exhausted Obi-Wan from Master Yoda's arms and placed him back in his chair. Even though Obi tried to protest his master would here none of it; he pressed a kiss on the boy's forehead.
"Ah master I'm too old for that."
"You, padawan will never be too old to be loved my me, my son………………"
#######
A lot of things can change in two weeks. Obi-Wan gladly found that out. He was now able to walk unaided. Even though his steps was slow and jerky and he tired easily, he was up and out of the hover chair. His memory returned a little more each day. Obi-Wan had nothing but good thoughts in his mind as he waited in the common room for his master to come out of his bedroom.
In Jinn's bedroom the master stood by an open bureau chest. He had in his hand the little gold ornate box Xani had given him all those years ago so he could store Crion's braid in it when it was cut.
//Some dreams are not meant to be. I see that now.//
The master stuck the gold box insde his robe and went to join Obi-Wan.
Just as he came out of the bedroom a knock at the door caused him to waylay his route to go open the door.
There in front of him was a disgruntled Master Plo Koon.
"Ah Master Jinn I heard you would be going to see Xanatos before he is shipped off Coruscant."
"Yes I am about to go down to the holding cells of the temple now. How can I help you?"
Plo Koon held out a plain little brown paperbag.
"Well I thought you could give this to Xanatos. I mean if you didn't want it."
Jinn took the bag, looked down at it, and then back to Master Plo Koon.
"Well it's.. you know it's Xani's….I mean Xanatos' braid. I have no use for it now."
"Are you not going to see him before he is forced out of the Jedi and the temple, even banished from Coruscant?"
"No there is no need, Any thing we had together is over. He is not and never will be a Jedi. Shame though, good man. I suppose we should be glad there is no proof that he killed the prisoners on Telos. The proof has gone to the grave with the dead."
Jinn got angry.
"Yes the dead that Xanatos saw got that way. No there has been no criminal charges against him. Not enough proof. I am told he will go to Telos and help his father rule that planet. One can only imagine how the planet will be run."
"Well nevertheless, I just wanted to pass this along to you."
Plo Koon turned and left. Jinn knew his contact with Plo Koon would become less and less now that Xanatos would be gone. That was a thought that was not unpleasant."
Jinn went to where Obi-Wan sat.
"You ready to go to Master Yoda's for a visit?"
"Yes but you know master I can go with you. I mean if you want me too. I don't want you upset today. You know having to tell Xani good bye and all."
"It's alright Obi. I have come to grips with reality. I can accept that Xanatos turned from the Jedi to do his evil deeds. I can not change that but neither was it my fault. It happened. No I am at peace with all this. Now get your robe. Master Yoda will be waiting with a pot of tea and probably a lot of stories to tell. He figures if your memory is gone or part of it still is, then he can retell his stories of the past and they will be new to you."
######In the holding cell where Xanatos is#####
"Master Jinn you came to see me off how nice."
"Well I don't know how nice it is Xanatos but I am hear. I do hope you change your ways. I am hear to wish you luck though in doing just that."
"Come off it master. You wish they had more on me and I could have been put away the rest of my life. But it couldn't happen that way. No I will go home and jointly rule along side of my father. I am not your little waif of a boy like Obi is, who came from nothing. I am almost a prince on my home world and in my father's eyes. So you keep you little bedraggled Obi-Wan and do with him what you will."
"I have no regrets Xanatos. You are pathetic. Obi-Wan is ten times the person you are, even if he was born of poor parents. A title does not make who you are. Just as putting a knight in front of your name did not make you a Jedi, putting a prince before it will not make you a great ruler."
Xanatos had a frown on his face but none of his other emotions was revealed. He would not allow himself to tell his master how much he truly would miss him and that he cared more for him than he did his father. Maybe they would meet one day and he would tell his master these truths but not today.
"Very well master if you have finished your speech you may go now. I know they will be coming for me soon. Maybe our paths will cross again some day."
Jinn only nodded his head in agreement.
"Oh I forgot one thing Xanatos."
Jinn reached down in one of his many pockets of his robe. He pulled out the little ornate gold box.
"I won't be needing this and thought you might want it."
He handed the box to a curious Xanatos.
Xani opened the box that he recognized as the one he gave his master. There in the box his master had placed Xanatos Crion's padawan braid.
The one thing that once meant so much to Master Jinn and Xanatos, now held no meaning at all for either………THE END
If you like my young Obi Qui-Gon and Xanatos' stories please give me feedback so I will know whether to bother to post another one….
I want to say THANX to all of those who did take the time to email me even if it was for grammar and spelling mistakes. I do appreciate even the correction for how else will I learn to improve my writing?
PEACE ewen
Obi-Wan noticed when his master first came in that he seemed very quiet. He did not want to interrupt his master's privacy so he did not ask how it went. Jinn was thankful for that. He thought about what Xanatos said and he knew that although he would give up the Jedi for Obi-Wan it would be the hardest thing he would ever do. The only problem with that was when he thought of being without Obi-Wan in his life, that far outweighed the painful thought of abandoning the Jedi.
Qui-Gon never offered a description of how the knighting ceremony went and Obi-Wan did not ask. It was now over!!!!!!
#################
The next day turned out to be a very important one for Obi-Wan. His master removed the force bracelet from his wrist. The rush of the force pulsing through him again was almost overpowering for the little apprentice. He had to bow his head to keep the dizziness under control. His master told him it was normal to feel a little dizzy and even sick. The sick part he did not have but the dizziness lasted the good part of the day.
Obi-Wan had the force now and knew he did, but using it was another thing. That evening and every evening after, his master would give him little tasks to do using the force. They were exercises that the babies in the crèche would use as they developed their force abilities.
Qui-Gon planned to go meet Mace for awhile that evening. He gave Obi-Wan instructions to work on his force manipulations by placing one block on top of another.
Obi-Wan sat on the floor and started to complain to his master that he was giving him baby things to do with his force. A stern look and a speech on how Obi had to start out slow and work his way up stopped the padawan in mid-sentence.
Obi-Wan had his fifth block stacked up with the use of the force when someone knocked at the door. He just yelled for the caller to come in, because the door was unlocked. The padawan looked up to see Xani as he loomed over Obi-Wan with a broad smile on his face.
"Hey "Squirt" is your master home? No, of course he isn't or he would be down on his hands and knees playing blocks with you now wouldn't he?"
Jinn's padawan knew Xanatos wanted to goad him into an argument and he was not going to fall it. However he could not resist one little comment.
"Well I guess you don't have to act your age to be a knight. Otherwise you wouldn't be one would you?"
Just then the com link interrupted the two. Obi-Wan tried to get up but was not successful. He was so nervous because Xanatos was there that he fumbled and slipped back down to the floor.
"Would you mind getting that for me Xani? Just hand me the base I don't need the view screen."
Xanatos laughed out loud because Obi-Wan had fallen, but he did what he was asked. However he didn't before he corrected Obi-Wan for using his first name now that he was a knight and Obi-Wan was a lowly padawan..
"Learn some respect padawan. It is now Knight Crion to you and I can have you reprimanded for not using my proper name."
Obi-Wan only rolled his eyes and held his hand up while he waited on the comm link.
"This is Mr.Careene, Deputy of the Crime Unit on Naboo. I wish to speak with Master Qui-Gon Jinn."
"He is not here at the moment. May I take a message or help you some way."
Obi-Wan did not know what this man wanted, but Xani shuffled his feet nervously back and forth for he had an idea.
"Are you his assitant?"
Kenobi did not know if a padawan to a master constituted as being a assistant or not.
"Well in away I guess I am. I am Master Jinn's padawan."
"Very well please relay this to your master. It concerns Xanatos Crion."
Obi-Wan glanced over at Xanatos and he could tell then that he was visually nervous.
"Tell him we here are quite satisfied with the report on the men the Jedi captured and their deaths. You might say that Master Jinn's friend and companion did us a favor. The three were suspects in a couple of major robberies and even a death. While we are officially closing the case we know how the Jedi are so straight laced and proper and we felt obligated to let Master Jinn know of one little detail that the temple council might be interested in."
"Yes, I am writing this down, go ahead. What was the one little detail?"
Obi-Wan was excited. This sounded like a mystery and what teen didn't love a good mystery.
"Well Padawan Crion stated he had to kill the men in defense of his own life, but when the autopsies where performed, the forensic doctor found that two of the men where shot in the back. Why someone would have to shoot another if he was running away is beyond my understanding, but because the Jedi have always been so helpful to us and the men were as evil as they get, we plan just to quietly close the files. We hope the Jedi remember the favor we have done for one of theirs when we need help from the them again. We will not bring any charges against Padawan Crion from the temple."
Obi-Wan held his breath. What news to get just when Xani stood right there to here what was said. The men were not killed in self defense as Xanatos claimed.
"Thank You Mr. Careene. I am sure my master will get back with you. Thank you also for being so lenient where the Jedi Crion is concerned."
Obi-Wan held Xanatos in his view as he spoke again. The knight returned his gaze as sweat literally poured off his face.
"I am sure my master will be anxious to receive this news."…………………
.The click of the comm link signaled that Obi-Wan's conversation was over.
Obi never let his eyes loose contact of Knight Crion. The apprentice was afraid of this man who evidently he did not know just as his master must have no inkling that Xanatos was truly capable of out and out murder.
Xanatos eyed the padawan suspiciously and looked at the front door. He hoped Jinn would not come in before he finished. He had a choice of two things. First he would try to reason with Obi-Wan. Then if that didn't work Obi-Wan would have to be done away with permanently.
"Well what is your plan now "little" Obi?"
The apprentice tried to hide his fear but the squeak in his voice kinda gave him away.
"I would not think you would be in a position to be so rude to me Xani."
Xanatos was furious over Obi-Wan using his nickname, especially after he had just given Obi-Wan a reprimand for using it. He had no choice though but to ignore it. He wanted to know what Obi-Wan planned to do with the information he had just received.
"Well kid what are you going to do, run to the council to have me expelled?"
"I don't have to go to the council, I will tell my master. I mean it is not like I am lying. He can verify what I say by Mr. Careene, if he wishes too."
"Think you are smart don't ya kid. Think you have out and out won my master over. If Qui-Gon finds out the truth about me, it will kill him. You will have to kiss your Jedi training goodbye. He will leave the order without you and then no other master will take you. Where you think you will be then. You will be lucky if you get to pull weeds from a garden."
Obi-Wan did not know if Xani was trying to scare him or not, but he did think that the hurt Jinn would feel would be awful for his master to go through.
"Xanatos even if I felt my master should not be told this because of the harm it would do to him, we could not keep this from the council."
Xanatos thought he might be getting somewhere going this route to convince Obi-Wan to keep his secret. At least it would buy him some time to figure out what to do with the boy.
"That Careene fellow won't be calling Master Jinn or the council any more. As far as he is concerned the matter is closed, finished unless you see fit to continue it. It will kill your master you know. If you feel nothing for me, think of Qui-Gon."
Obi-Wan let his anger take over.
"Don't call him that. Use master before his name. You are not even worthy to speak his name let alone be worthy of another chance that the council gave you. Just how many people did you really kill? Were there others? Of course there was and then the prisoners. For sith's sake Xani you've killed an army of men. Those prisoners didn't come up missing did they? That Gilroy man that Master Plo Koon killed knew the truth. He even spoke it and you had the council and my master fooled."
Obi-Wan could not imagine a supposed Jedi could have committed so many murders.
//This will kill my master when he finds out. He will leave the order and in a sense it will be my fault. The damage is already done. How can I do that to Master Jinn after all he has done for me?//
"Just what would I have to do Xanatos. I mean for my master not to find out."
"Quite simple Obi-Wan. You have to keep this a secret. If Jinn finds out there is no telling what will happen to him. I mean he could go into a state of depression, leave the order, or maybe…maybe even think of sucide. He will think he has failed in my apprenticeship. He will put all the blame on himself. You know how he is."
Yes Obi-Wan did know how his master was about Xani. He had just started to get over the guilt of his former padawan's wayward actions and this had to happen.
//Master could not stand this. If he harmed himself because I told on Xanatos then I could only blame myself.//
Obi-Wan had his force but did not know to use it well enough to reach for it and ask the force to give him guidance in his decision.
Now it was Obi-Wan's turn to sweat. He wrung his hands as he tried to think of the right thing to do. Just then footsteps could be heard on the outside of the door.
"He is here Obi-Wan. What are you going to do? I have to know and know now boy. What is it going to be? Do we an agreement or are you going to kill Jinn with your news?"
Obi-wan bit his lip until he drew blood.
He whispered his next words.
"Very well for now Xanatos, for I can't think clearly. The only thing I will promise you is that if I decide to tell my master I will tell you first so you can talk with him. One thing more Xanatos. Make sure you understand I do not do this for you. I would do anything to protect my master and that is the only reason I am doing it."
"Sure right kid that will work. Well before you telll him you better think it over for several days , because your and his life depends on it. Maybe more than mine does. I have had no charges pressed against me so I am home free."
Just as Xani whispered his last words to Obi-Wan the door swung opened to a very surprised Master Jinn.
"Xanatos, I mean Knight Crion, what brings you here?"
Xanatos tried to shake off his fear and sound normal.
"First Master Jinn, don't be so formal. I am still Xanatos to you. I came hear to make peace with Obi-Wan. He just showed me how well he is doing with his force back, weren't you Obi-Wan?"
"What? Yea sure. That is what I was doing master."
Obi-Wan could not believe he had just agreed with Master Jinn's former padawan to hide the truth from his master. He had to have time to think all this through. It still would not be too late to tell Qui-Gon in the morning after Obi-Wan thought things through tonight.
"Well Xanatos I think Obi has more work to do. Our time is almost at hand for the council to reassess him."
"That's another reason I am here. I came to offer Obi-Wan any assistance I can in helping him recover more fully. If you need me as long as I am at the temple, just give me a call."
"Thank You Xani. That is very thoughtful of you. I will keep your offer in mind."
Jinn thought his offer was nice if in fact it was sincere, but he was not sure of that sincerity. Xanatos always seemed to surprise his master even now.
"Then I will leave you and Obi to your work. Later Master."
Xanatos walked out just a nonchalantly as he walked in; confident in himself that Obi-Wan would be unwilling to tell Master Jinn for fear of the hurt it would cause him. It had bought the knight some time to figure out what he should do with the "brat".
Jinn looked down at his padawan on the floor and the first thing he noticed was how very pale he looked. He also thought he could see Obi-Wan's hands tremble as he put the blocks back in their box.
"Are you alright Obi?"
"Yes I think so.I just feel well….. Master I think I need to go to the fresher. I'm afraid gulp….. I am going to be sick."
Jinn saw his padawan fight to hold back his illness until he made it to the fresher. Without another thought he scooped Obi-Wan up in his powerful arms and carried him to the fresher. After he sat him down, Obi-Wan sunk to the floor because of his weak legs.They were not just weak because of the paralysis, they were weak with fear for what he had just done. He emptied quite possibly everything he had eaten that day and maybe more from his stomach.
Qui-Gon stayed with the boy and wiped his forehead with a damp cloth. He left the cool cloth on Obi's head holding it gently with his oversized hand. Obi-Wan leaned into his master's touch and rested his forehead in the palm of Qui-Gon's hand as he waited to finish his unpleasant task of vomiting.
//I hope Obi-Wan is not coming down with the flu. Timing is everything to us right now. Hopefully it is just something he ate that did not settle on his stomach//.
No, Obi-Wan did not have the flu, he had a case of guilt. Guilt that would have to be thought through and then a decision made about it. Obi-Wan knew he couldn't go through feeling this way very long.…………
/Two days left before we go before the council and still very little progress in both Obi-Wan's use of the force and his walking abilities.//
In fact if anything Obi-Wan had regressed. The boy seemed listless not as enthused with his lessons in the force. Qui-Gon mistakenly thought it was because Obi was given such little tasks in the force. He gave him more advanced usage for it and still nothing.
//He seems to have lost his will to become a Jedi. Even his eating habits have been affected. I have to practically shove food down his throat to get him to eat. What's going on?//
The master was in his bedroom dressing for the day. He was determined to find out what was going on. He also wanted to check with Master Darue to find out what he thought about Obi-Wan's progress.
They ate and Jinn decided he would personally take his apprentice to the healers. He had of late started allowing Obi-Wan to wheel himself to the healers, but that would not be the case today.
Obi-Wan solemnly went into the practice gym where he did everyday for his session with Master Darue.
The healer master started to turn to go in but Jinn waylaid him as he took his arm and asked him for a second of his time.
"Master Darue I have a question for you and I would rather not discuss this in front of my padawan."
"Yes what is it?"
"Does Obi-Wan seem to lack the enthusiasm he once had. I mean he has been …I don't know just listless, less focused on the chores before him."
"Well his progress with me has stalled out. I was going to mention it today if there was no advancement in his skills after our workout. I do not wish to intrude on your personal business with you and your apprentice, but has there been a fight between the two of you? Are you not getting along as well as you had been?"
"No the oppostie is true. Things have been going well with us. Well I thought they had. However something has changed. The boy will hardly take three bites of his food each meal. If it continues I will have to bring him to you for that as well."
"This is worrisome Qui-Gon. I mean I thought with the bracelet off he would feel much better as he adjusted to feeling the force. Do you think the force could have anything to do with it?"
"No I truthfully don't. He felt a little ill after he regained it then he started right in and did the practice lessons in the usage of the force."
There was one night when Xanatos came for a visit Obi-Wan became ill. He got sick once and then nothing. I thought it was just something he ate because it did not last long."
"Well I suggest you bring him in for a physical and have a talk with him. Maybe he needs to be reminded just how important his progress is. Then again maybe the stress of doing so much is getting to him."
"No I will talk with him later today. He welcomed the challenge. We agreed we would go through this together. I don't think that's it. Until the other day, a couple of days after Xanatos' knighting, the boy was all for working as hard as he could to be a Jedi.. Now he doesn't seem to care if he is one or not."
Jinn left with at least the satisfaction that he knew he had discussed the problem with Master Darue and he noticed the same thing in Obi-Wan as Qui-Gon did.
//So it is not imagination.//
Jinn wished that the council would have given him a class today. He wanted to talk to Obi-Wan after his session with Master Healer Darue, but he was anxious he knew the time would drag by.
//I would have even welcomed a class of five-year olds with a training saber than to do nothing for three hours.//
An idea came to Jinn. He had neglected his apartment since Obi-Wan had been injured.
//That's what I will do. Give the old place a thorough cleaning. It certainly needs it.//
#####Back in a training room right beside where Obi-Wan was###
Knight Xanatos Crion stood off to the side and watched a class of senior padawans practice katas and various saber moves.
Well I had a choice of this class or the little ones. Now I am not that cruel to hurt a small one. After all I am a Jedi knight now.
Xanatos smiled evilly. His personality had changed lately. More of the dark side seem to find its way to the knight. It controlled his actions and his thoughts.
A Jedi could not walk on the edge of the dark side without one day being influenced by it. That is what happened to Xanatos. He had edged himself too far on the side of the dark and it claimed him totally. Any desire he ever had to do good was non-existent now.
Xani centered his concentration on a pair of boys as they practiced their saber techniques.
The boys noticed the knight watching them and they increased tempo of their battle to impress the newly knighted Xanatos Crion. Xani in the mean time waited for just the right moment to implement his diabolical plan.
One boy saw his chance to parry forward and lunge his saber in a mock hit to the chest of the other padawan. Just as he went forward, Knight Crion gave him a force shove with all his might.
It was enough force to cause the saber to actually pierce the skin of the padwan being attacked.
A scream rang through the training hall and the boy dropped to the ground. It was not a mortal wound but it needed treated.
The instructor ran to the boy. The other padawan who had done the damage dropped his saber and stared down at what he thought he had done.
Crion saundered up slowly.
"I have to get this boy help." The instructor spoke to no one in particular. It was just a statement of fact.
Xanatos bent over the injured padawan and the instructor. The instructor yelled.
"I need a healer."
Xanatos was the next one to speak.
"Allow me Instructor Morris. I know for a fact that Master Healer Darue is in the next room working with Master Jinn's padawan. I'll get him."
"Thank You! Hurry!!!"
####Back in the Jinn apartment####
I guess I will start with the kitchen, then I will clean the common room.
Jinn took off his robe and outer tunic. He was determined to keep his mind off of Obi-Wan and their problems this morning.
####In the training room where Obi is####
Padawan Kenobi was about to try to walk again. He had just gotten himself back up from falling. The doors to the gym flew opened and slammed against the wall.
"Knight Xanatos what is the matter?"
The noise had drawn Master Darue's attention and he saw Xanatos run through the double doors.
"One of the padawans in the next training room has been injured, a wound to his chest. The instructor told me to get a healer and I started to the healers ward when I remembered you were here, right next door."
"Yes well I will go to him. Could you stay here with Obi-Wan until I can send for his master."
Xanatos plastered the smile that seemed so evil, on his face. Obi-Wan noticed the darkness in Knight Crion. Why couldn't Master Darue see it?
"I would be glad to stay with him. Now hurry. The instructor said to come quickly."
That was at least the truth but the entire thing was set up so that Xanatos could get to Obi-Wan, with no one around.
#back in the Jinn apartment#
Qui-Gon found that the kitchen was not in as much need of cleaning as he thought. He moved to the common room. Obi-Wan did keep that room a mess. He started by picking up papers that were strewn around the room.
[]Obi-Wan must use the waste basket as a basketball hoop for balled up class work.. Look how many times he missed.[/i]
Jinn smiled and bent down to pick up the paper. One piece drew his attention and so he unballed the note. It had his name on it and it was dated the day Xanatos visited the Jinn/Kenobi household.
What is this, a note from the Crime Director on Naboo.I didn't get this.
The master sat down and preceeded to read the note that Obi-Wan had taken from Mr. Careene, but Jinn never got until now.
####back with Obi-Wan and Xanatos####
Obi-wan looked at Xanatos. He saw no reason not to believe the knight but he saw something in him he did not like. He decided to tell Xani anyway what he had decided to do.
"Well now that we are together alone I might as well tell you what I have decided."
"No let me tell you. The do-good-Jedi that you are makes it imperative that you tell Master Jinn the truth. Am I right?"
Obi-Wan just stayed where he was without uttering a word.
Xanatos yelled his next statement.
"Well what is it. I am right aren't I? You think I am going to allow you to destroy my place in the Jedi order. No one needs to know this. I plan to never kill again. Well I won't if you go along with my plan."
Obi-Wan knew exactly what he meant. He would kill Obi if he did not agree to keep silent. Obi thought at first he could trick the knight.
Obi-Wan words stumbled because of his cotton-mouth that almost stuck together as he spoke.
"You want me to keep silent about what happened. I mean I will if you think that's best."
Obi tried to con Xanatos into believing he would do things his way, but now Xani knew the boy planned to tell. Just as soon as he got away from Xanatos he would run to his master.
Xanatos could not allow that.
####In the Jinn/Kenobi apartment###
Jinn dropped th paper he had just read and rested his head in both hands.
I can't believe it. What Norton Gilroy claimed of Xanatos, is the truth. He must have.He killed the others to keep them silent. HOW!! WHY!! Oh Xani how could you have done this to yourself. I have to report this to the council.
Then Jinn realized that Xanatos must have been there when Obi-Wan got the message.
Why didn't Obi give this too me? Did Xani threaten him? What is going on here?
Jinn was almost as upset to know Obi did not give him the note as he was about finding out about Xanatos.
Qui-Gon decided he would go to Obi-Wan and interrupt his session with Darue. What he found would have to be addressed immediately. He had to know exactly what both padawans, present and past, were doing by keeping this too themselves and not telling Master Jinn.
Jinn walked down the temple hall with a little more jest in his speed. He was curious as to what went on that night Xanatos was there. While Obi-Wan did not lie to him, he was not forthright with his master. Jinn should have received the message as soon as Obi-Wan got it.
It is not like Obi-Wan to blatanly deceive me.
Qui-Gon walked past the healer's ward. He looked up just in time to see a padawan being rolled into a med unit as Master Darue followed.
Darue saw Jinn at the same time.
"Oh Qui-Gon we have had a slight emergency and I got called away from Obi-Wan."
Jinn looked at the boy on the gurney.
"I hope the injury is not serious."
"Not life threatening but I felt it needed attention right away."
"No problem I wanted to talk to Obi-Wan anyway. It is kind of urgent."
"You will still find him in the training hall. Xanatos is with him."
Jinn did not know why but his stomach churned and did a flip.
"Xani? WHY?"
Darue was in a hurry to get to his patient and he talked very quickly as he followed the boy to his room.
"Luck would have it, Xanatos was in the training room when the boy got hurt. He offered to stay with Obi-Wan until I could contact you. Sorry I have to tend to him now."
Jinn was in a hurry too. In the back of his mind sheer fear and panic gripped him. He for some reason did not like the idea of Xani being with Obi-Wan, especially if Xanatos was a aware of the communiqué sent from Naboo. Jinn's fast-paced walk turned into an outright run as he rushed to get his padawan.
####In the training room with Xani and Obi####
Obi-Wan noticed that Xanatos continually kept his right hand down and hidden within his Jedi rope. The postion seemed odd.
Obi-Wan tilted his head to the side to see if Xanatos was hiding something.
"Curious are you Obi about what I plan to do?"
From out of the robe Xani drew a short metal pipe.
"Well I will just have to tell you. I am going to crack your head wide open just at the base line of the skull in the back. Don't worry your death will be instant. Then I am going to place you right there on that little step of your exercise contraption and tell Master Jinn that you lost your balance and hit the back of your head on the wood flooring. Boom you're dead and I remain a knight. How's that Obi-Wan, like my plan?"
Obi-Wan became terrified. Xani would resort to killing anyone to keep his secret intact.
"Do you think I am crazy enough just to let you hit me in the right spot without putting up a fight?"
"No not really."
Xanatos raised his left hand, the one free without the weapon and waved it in Obi-Wan's direction. The child was immediately put in a force hold.
"You really should learn how too use your force better Obi-Wan. Had you thought fast enough, you could have blocked my force hold. Now I am afraid you can do nothing but stand there and wait for the blow. Don't worry. Like I said it will instant and painless. At least I think it will. No matter I have to do it."
Just then the double doors of the training room swung open and Master Jinn entered out of breath and terrified for his padawan.
Qui-Gon yelled from a crossed the room when he saw Xanatos had a weapon in his hand while he advanced toward Obi-Wan.
"DROP IT XANATOS AND STEP AWAY FROM MY APPRENTICE!!!!!"
: ewen "AAH! Master Jinn to the rescue. Are you playing the knight in shining armor for little Obi now?"
"This is not a game. I want you to release Obi-Wan right now. You will just be in more trouble if you harm him."
Xanatos laughed out loud.
"Master, Master, I have killed at least thirty men. Do you think one more little boy is going to send me to the electric chair."
Qui-Gon winced as if in pain when Xanatos rattled off the number of people he had killed to protect himself from being found out. Master Jinn thought he would be sick. He pushed his sickness down and tried again to reason with Xani for his padawan, Obi-Wan's life.
"Look I will help you Xanatos just release the boy."
"Help me. Master I wanted your help before and you shunned me in favor of this one. No he will die. My knighthood pales in comparsion to doing away with this boy who has ruined my life.He just keeps ruining it. Had he agreed to keep quiet about this mess, I was prepared to let him live. But no. He had to be the good little Jedi. Had I let him go he would have run straight to you."
"Look Xanatos I didn't need for Obi-Wan to tell me. I found the note he wrote when the Deputy called. I know what you did. There is no reason to harm Obi-Wan now. The truth is out but not by him."
"No reason. I have every reason. He has been a thorn in my side since I returned to the temple. He has to pay master. He will too with his life. Then I will have done you a favor too. I will have set you free from this stone around your neck. You don't need this invalid to care for."
Jinn sent waves of assurance to Obi-Wan and the boy could get it now because he had the force back. He could not however get loose from the force hold that Xanatos had put him in. He could only stare at his master and hope that Qui-Gon could get him out of this.
Jinn started to edge closer to Xanatos as he kept talking to him. He tried to reason some more with Xanatos but he was getting no where. He inched closer to his former apprentice in hopes of launching an attack on the man that held Obi-Wan captive.
Xanatos anticipated the chance that his master would try to jump him. Just as he started to draw his saber, Obi-Wan let out a blood-curdling scream to warn his master. The scream startled Xani and he released his hold on Obi. The boy fell to the ground because of his useless legs. Jinn dodged the strike of the saber Xanatos threw at him.
"Don't make me fight you master. I really don't want too but I have no choice if you do not agree to side with me. I can even let Obi-Wan live if you can convince him to keep quiet."
"Obi-Wan and I are both Jedi, Xanatos. We can't do that and live our lives with any as semblance of peace. You have to be punished for what you have done. Even if it is only being put out of the Jedi order, it has to be done."
Jinn dodged another strike of the saber.
Obi-Wan could see the training sabers on the other wall. Jinn backed the other way and he did not notice the sabers hanging there.
The two, master and former apprentice ended up on the ground fighting hand to hand. They were behind some gym equipment and Obi could not tell what was going on.
He knew he needed to get to the sabers. They would not land a death blow, but they were strong enough to stun someone if powered as high as the training saber would go.
Padawan Kenobi pulled himself up to a standing position by using his hover chair. If he was to walk half way across the room to get the sabers then he would do it without the help of something to hold onto. It was something he had never really done. He needed balance, or he thought he did.
Obi-Wan gathered all the force he had in his body and made the first step. He did not fall. It was extremely difficult for him to balance himself and pull the stiff legs along but he did. He made another step, then another.
Obi-Wan did not think of what he had accomplished by walking. His concern was for his master who was still on the floor battling Xanatos.
Obi-Wan had been successful in traveling at least ten steps, about half the distant he needed to go. He watched as Xanatos got off his master and picked up his saber. Jinn got off the floor and waited. Xanatos had him literally trapped in a corner, his saber leveled directly at the master.
Xanatos almost had tears in his eyes as he pleaded with his master.
"I beg you Qui-Gon, side with me. I have no wish to kill you but I will. Then after that I will do away with your padawan. How's that? Is that what you want, your death and his? "
"I am sorry Xani but you ask too much of me. I will not turn to the dark side with you."
Obi looked from his master to the sabers. His master needed a weapon but the boy had worn himself walking only half the distant. Then Obi-Wan thought of an idea, the force. If Xanatos could put a force hold on him and Obi-Wan could move blocks through mid-air, why couldn't he summons the force to help him float the saber to his master.
Kenobi closed his eyes and focused on the force within him. Nothing, The saber did not move. He tried again and still nothing.
Xanatos stood and waited for his master. He hoped Qui-Gon would change his mind before he would be forced to kill him.
Obi-wan tried one more time. He gritted his teeth, balled his hands in fists, and thought he would blow his head off because he concentrated so hard on moving that saber to send it too his master.
Just then the training saber popped off the wall and floated to his master. Xanatos' back was turned to Obi-Wan and he did not see it. His master did though and he talked to Xanatos to bide his time until the saber floated to him.
Just then the master reached out and grabbed the saber, powering it up as he took it in his hands.
"Our battle is not so lop-sided now is it master. I won't feel as guilty when I land the death blow." You sure you won't change your mind?"
"I am sure Xani and don't worry about being lop-sided I plan to beat your butt all over this gym and then turn you for to the council so they can do with you what they will."
"That only fueled Xanatos' anger for his master.
They both started almost instantaneously using their sabers to deflect the blows of the other.
The battle went back and forth. One would make a hit then the other. Qui-Gon grew weary of this game with Xanatos. He landed a blow to Xanatos' upper arm and then ran past him. His momentum caused Jinn hit the wall with his feet, twisted his body sideways and vaulted over Xanatos. He landed behind Xanatos. Before Xani had a chance to turn around and fight his master. The master judo chopped him in the back of the neck. That did Xanatos in. He fell to the ground, passed out from the blow he sustained at the hand of his master, Qui-Gon Jinn…………….
Jinn rushed over to where Obi-Wan's had fallen when his legs finally gave out on him.
He pulled his padawan up in his arms and continued to secure him in such a bear hug Obi thought he would loose his breath, but right now he didn't care. He was glad his master was alright. He still did not realize he could walk..
"You did it Obi-Wan. You not only walked you used the force to send me that saber. That's how I defeated Xanatos. I knew you would be alright."
"Hey I guess I did walk to the sabers. Well walked half of the way."
Master what will we do now?"
Jinn placed Obi-Wan back in his chair and his padawan followed him over to where Xanatos was just starting to regain consciousness. Jinn hurriedly put a force hold on him as Xanatos had done Obi-Wan earlier. He called for temple guards and looked down at Xanatos.
" We will go tell the council the truth, nothing more. Tell me Obi-Wan how did you think to use the force when everything was so hectic around you?"
"Well I guess we should thank Xanatos for that master."
Xani looked up at Obi-Wan to see what he meant. He was still dizzy from the lick Jinn gave him, but he wanted to find out just what Obi was talking about.
"How's that padawan?"
"When he put me in the force hold, he said I should have thought ahead and used my force to stop him. Well I didn't use the force wisely then but I remembered what he said about using the force and I did, use it I mean. I used it to float the saber to you. I guess I should thank you Xani."
Obi-Wan didn't care. He called Xanatos by his nickname only too upset him. He had no cares now. His master was there and everything else had started to come together.
Xanatos was led away.
####
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were called to an emergency meeting of the temple council. Word had traveld fast about Xanatos and the council wanted the facts from Qui and Obi and not the idle gossip being circulated throughout the temple.
Of course master and padawan were given the opportunity to freshen up before going before the council. They still would have to go before them in two days for Obi-Wan's reassessment.
Obi-Wan was concerned for his master. He knew it must have hurt him a lot to realize Xani had killed so many people and had finally turned to the dark side. Obi-Wan wondered what Master Plo Koon would have to say about the turn of events in he and Xanatos' life.
I guess Master Plo Koon won't have a hot shot knight to conquer the galaxies with.
Obi-Wan knew it was not polite but he giggled over the thought of Plo Koon and his missions he had planned for he and his Xani.
Qui-Gon and his padawan waited in the hall just outside the council chambers. They would be called in to recant what went on between the three of them in the training room.
Obi-Wan seemed more nervous than usual.
"Do I look alright master?"
He had fussed with his hair, adjusted his braid back and over his shoulders, and double wiped his mouth to make sure no food particles was left there inadverntly from mid-meal.
Jinn smiled at his padawan and ruffled his head. That brought a grunt and complaint from Obi-Wan who had spent the last ten minutes styling the spiked head of hair.
"You look fine Obi-Wan. It is not in the Jedi mantra to be vain. I don't think the council has called us here to go over your appearance."
"You never know master. One little thing could be out of place and Master Plo Koon might file some kind of grievance against it. I mean I don't think he likes me very much."
"Doesn't really matter what he thinks of you Obi-Wan. The entire council is in there and they will assess what happened today. Of course I plan to tell them you saved my life."
Obi-Wan blushed, but this time it was not of embarrassment of a bad kind but a pleasant embarrassment of sorts. To have his master boast of what he did made the padawan even happier. He just hoped he would be as happy when he left the temple chambers.
This had become common practice for Obi-Wan to be before the council with his master. He hoped one day it would change if he was blessed enough to be permitted to continue training under his master.
That was not why they were there now though. It was to explain the circumstances of the fight his master and former padawan got into.
Padawan Kenobi sat silently in his chair as Master Jinn went over every little detail, up and including the part where Obi-Wan withheld information that should have been given to Master immediately. Qui-Gon was a bit worried about that part but he had no choice. It had to be done the correct way. Now more lies, not from Xanatos, Obi-Wan or him. He also told of how Obi-Wan came to his rescue when he needed it the most.
When finished with his statement, Qui-Gon bowed and stepped back to his place along side his apprentice.
All the council masters were in too much shock to say anything right away except for one, Master Plo Koon.
"My question Master Jinn. How is it that the master that all Jedi hold in such high esteem and with his supposedly immense connection with the living force, was hoodwinked by a mere padawan?"
Jinn looked at Plo Koon almost daring the master to say anything else. In fact he held his hand up as if to silence Master Plo Koon.
"I turn the question right back to you Master Plo Koon. Have you now stopped the idol worship of my former padawan that you had just had yesterday and previous days before?"
"Enough it is Master Jinn. Here to attack Master Plo Koon we are not. But Master Plo Koon should remember here we are not to attack Master Jinn also. The truth we seek that is all. Seems we have it. Anything to say have you Padawan Kenobi?"
Obi-Wan looked deep into his grandmaster's eyes. He wanted to know what Master Yoda needed from him but he just could not judge by Yoda's reaction to all this.
"I have nothing to say Master Yoda, but to verify all that my master has said is true."
Plo Koon spoke up again.
"We should not judge one padawan without judging the other before us. After all Master Jinn has been in some way bonded with Obi-Wan since he came here when he was two years old,.. Maybe that bond interrupted his bond with Xanatos. That is why he turned to the dark."
Mace immediately spoke in defense of his friend.
"That is bull and you know it Plo Koon. Master Jinn kept the bond with Obi-Wan practically dormant until he could take Obi-Wan as his padawan.. He has always been more than fair to Xani. Maybe too fair. I think he may have let emotions guide him at times with Xani. But you yourself did not see the dark in Knight Crion. You wanted to train Xanatos. Do not accuse Qui-Gon of being anything other than a loyal master to both boys. One is of the light and one was of the dark, only the dark one hid it quite well."
"I wash my hands of all this. Do what you will to Xanatos Crion, but remember you have to judge Master Jinn's other apprentice in two days. Be just as hard on him as you have been on Xanatos this day."
"Matter of Padawan Kenobi to be settled today it is."
"Who decided that, Master Jinn or worse yet are you letting Obi-Wan tell the temple council when he wants to be assessed?"
Plo Koon was a difficult person to deal with when he wanted to be.
"Decided I did Master Plo Koon. Objections you have the council will take note of them. Anyone to object also speak or continue I will with Obi-Wan Kenobi"
The other masters around the table seemed to nod their agreement to Yoda continuing and waited to see if Plo Koon had more objections to voice. No one said a word. Plo Koon was livid with anger but he seemed to know he had pushed Master Yoda to a certain point and it was not wise to push him further..
"Come forward you will Padawan Kenobi. Fear no one at this table you should. We here serve the goodness of the force. There is no dark amongst us NOW……………………"
Obi-Wan rolled himself forward and waited for the masters to start their interrogation. How is how Obi saw it anyway. This meeting right now would decide his fate. It was not planned and it took the apprentice by complete surprise. In a way though, he welcomed it. It would be decided very shortly what his fate would be. Just for a moment as he waited for Yoda to start, Padawan Kenobi wondered if his master would truly leave the Jedi order for him. He was torn between wanting his master to leave with him or to allow his master to remain where he really did belong with the Jedi order.
"Before us your fate is be decided. Have anything to say in you defense do you?"
"No master These last two weeks have been very trying not just for me but for my master. Then of course it ws complicated by Xanatos' corruption and my misdeeds of covering it up."
Plo Kon waited like a tiger to jump the boy. He saw his chance with the lie he told his master about the message.
"Would you care to explain Padawan Kenobi how you can jusity yourself when it comes to telling your master a lie?" Jedi do not lie."
"I did not tell my master a lie, I just kept the truth from him for awhile. I did it because I feared the news of Xanatos' failings would break his heart."
Master Yoda spoke very gently to Obi-Wan.
"Avoid the truth, keep it hidden, then lie it was child. However Master Plo Koon stated wrongly he did. Not many of us here lie we have not. Reason for it good then sometimes an unspoken truth necessary it is to protect others. Do not condone I do but condemn your situation I will not."
Obi-Wan let out a little sigh of relief. At least his grand master tried to help him a little.
" I know Master Yoda. I will remember that. I still have a lot to remember about my past and the Jedi. It is coming back though, as is my walking ability. I know I won't be totally healed when it is time for the masters to take new apprentices in two days, however I truly believe I am on my way to a speedy recovery with both of my obstacles. I ask to be allowed to remain a Jedi apprentice under Master Qui-Gon Jinn's teaching. We make a good team."
Obi-Wan couldn't help but notice his last sentence brought a smile to a couple of the masters, including Master Mace and Master Gallia. He thought that had to be good for him.
Yoda got up out of his chair and came around to the front of the large circular desk that the council sat behind.
There before the table was a raised podium stand with steps. Yoda always used this podium to talk on because it increased his height.
He started to say something when he was abruptly interrupted by Master Yaddle.
"Master Yoda, beg your pardon I do. I have one question I do for Padawan Kenobi if allowed it is."
It was rare for Master Yaddle spoke up in one of these proceedings.
"Speak you will master. Welcome your foresight and guidance we always do."
Master Yoda was very polite to Master Yaddle because he truly did honor her opinion and if the truth was known he had a little crush on his fellow species.
"Remember you do the speech you gave last time before us you were?"
Obi-Wan turned to face Master Yaddle. He did remember very well the speech he gave on compassion, courage and love.
"Yes Master Yadldle I remember it very well."
"Still stand by what you said then Padawan?"
"I am sorry Master Yaddle, what do you mean stand by it?."
"Stand by your words do you still? Or perhaps they were just that, "words". Please believe me Padawan, question your beliefs I do not. What you did for your master should make you more than worthy to be a padawan. Still even with your recovery not final, wonder I do, speak truth of the Jedi you did."
All things seem to fall together for Obi-Wan. It was just such as easy question but he had made it hard. All he had to do was speak from his heart and that is exactly what he did.
Obi-Wan's cheeks, still graced with baby fat on them, pinked up.
"AAH!!! I got ya now Master Yaddle, I think I can answer that question without hesitation now. What I said before the council last time here was what I believed. Master Jinn gave me the courage to help in his battle. The compassion that a JedIi needs was always there for that is why I witheld the truth; the compassion I had for my master.
Love, I did say love was important didn't I? Well that goes without answering you. My love for my master gave me the courage to battle Xani and compassion for my master, to see that he is never hurt physically or mentally again."
Obi-Wan waited a minute before he spoke again.
"I guess the best way to sum all this up is this. I have enough compassion for my master to know his place will always be with the Jedi. I love my master enough not to hold him to his statement that he would leave the order if I had too. And finally Master Yaddle, I have the courage to walk away from here alone knowing my master would stay to do good in a world of evil. I can do all that now where I could not do it before. Do not however give credit to the force I have just been given back. I credit all that I am to my master."
This little padawan did have a gift for gap, when it came to impressing the masters' before him. Yoda did not see it a trickery with words. Obi-Wan had spoken from the heart and every master including one who would never admit it, knew of Obi's sincerity. A person with so much good in his heart could not be cut from the Jedi order. He was a perfact example of what the Jedi built their existence on, with or without the force.
Master Yaddle nodded her satisfaction to Obi-Wan's answer.
"If question one of the masters did before of your worthiness for the Jedi then now they should not child. I will vote for you to stay within the Jedi order under the care of Master Jinn."
The little master sat back down.
Yoda solemnly nodded his head with his agreement as did several other masters.
"One more task I have for you grand padawan if allow me you will."
"If I can do it I will try to do what you want."
Obi-Wan looked at his grandmaster who stood before him."
"Walk to me you will."
Obi-Wan was shocked, He had already told the masters that he was not fully healed. He was worn out just from what he had done earlier. He was not sure he could do what Master Yoda asked.
Master Jinn spoke up.
"Mster Yoda I mean no respect but I think Obi-Wan is too tired to do what you want."
Yoda only shooed Master Jinn away with a wave of his little snarled hand..
"Ask you if too tired he is I did not. Ask the boy I did. Padawan Kenobi you have been around me enough you have, since a wee babe you were. Know better you do to say try. There is no try only do. Willing are you to do what I request.?"
Jinn started to protest again until he felt the small hand of his apprentice on his arm.
Obi-Wan looked at his master while he spoke to Master Yoda.
"Yes Master Yoda I will do what you ask."
Obi-Wan raised himself up on his wobbly legs. The shakiness in them was increased because of his tiredness. Obi-Wan waited a moment and balanced himself with the arms of his hover chair.
In his mind he called to the force again. He was not surprised, as he thought to himself, he felt his master's gentle entrance into his mind and the gentle prodding forward that he encouraged his padawan with.
I can do this.
//I have no doubt Obi-Wan. Remember I am here behind you now just reach for the force and it will not fail you if you are true to its calling//.
Obi-Wan did just as his master said. One step then another then another. Finally he reached the podium that his grand master stood on. He saw the familiar loving arms of Master Yoda's that held him when he was small. It had been Master Yoda who cuddled him at night when Jinn was on missions, when the boy was no more than four years old. Obi-Wan just then remembered how much love Yoda had for him.
As Yoda's arms stretched out Obi-Wan stretched his also. He fell into the arms of the person who loved him the most next to his master. Yoda was there to whisper praise to the little padawan.
"Shown you have more than worthy you are. Padawan to Master Qui-Gon Jinn I deem you to remain. Anyone on the council to object then do it now or so be it."
The room remained silent. Jinn looked a little ridculous with the smile that pressed all over his face. He went up and took an exhausted Obi-Wan from Master Yoda's arms and placed him back in his chair. Even though Obi tried to protest his master would here none of it; he pressed a kiss on the boy's forehead.
"Ah master I'm too old for that."
"You, padawan will never be too old to be loved my me, my son………………"
#######
A lot of things can change in two weeks. Obi-Wan gladly found that out. He was now able to walk unaided. Even though his steps was slow and jerky and he tired easily, he was up and out of the hover chair. His memory returned a little more each day. Obi-Wan had nothing but good thoughts in his mind as he waited in the common room for his master to come out of his bedroom.
In Jinn's bedroom the master stood by an open bureau chest. He had in his hand the little gold ornate box Xani had given him all those years ago so he could store Crion's braid in it when it was cut.
//Some dreams are not meant to be. I see that now.//
The master stuck the gold box insde his robe and went to join Obi-Wan.
Just as he came out of the bedroom a knock at the door caused him to waylay his route to go open the door.
There in front of him was a disgruntled Master Plo Koon.
"Ah Master Jinn I heard you would be going to see Xanatos before he is shipped off Coruscant."
"Yes I am about to go down to the holding cells of the temple now. How can I help you?"
Plo Koon held out a plain little brown paperbag.
"Well I thought you could give this to Xanatos. I mean if you didn't want it."
Jinn took the bag, looked down at it, and then back to Master Plo Koon.
"Well it's.. you know it's Xani's….I mean Xanatos' braid. I have no use for it now."
"Are you not going to see him before he is forced out of the Jedi and the temple, even banished from Coruscant?"
"No there is no need, Any thing we had together is over. He is not and never will be a Jedi. Shame though, good man. I suppose we should be glad there is no proof that he killed the prisoners on Telos. The proof has gone to the grave with the dead."
Jinn got angry.
"Yes the dead that Xanatos saw got that way. No there has been no criminal charges against him. Not enough proof. I am told he will go to Telos and help his father rule that planet. One can only imagine how the planet will be run."
"Well nevertheless, I just wanted to pass this along to you."
Plo Koon turned and left. Jinn knew his contact with Plo Koon would become less and less now that Xanatos would be gone. That was a thought that was not unpleasant."
Jinn went to where Obi-Wan sat.
"You ready to go to Master Yoda's for a visit?"
"Yes but you know master I can go with you. I mean if you want me too. I don't want you upset today. You know having to tell Xani good bye and all."
"It's alright Obi. I have come to grips with reality. I can accept that Xanatos turned from the Jedi to do his evil deeds. I can not change that but neither was it my fault. It happened. No I am at peace with all this. Now get your robe. Master Yoda will be waiting with a pot of tea and probably a lot of stories to tell. He figures if your memory is gone or part of it still is, then he can retell his stories of the past and they will be new to you."
######In the holding cell where Xanatos is#####
"Master Jinn you came to see me off how nice."
"Well I don't know how nice it is Xanatos but I am hear. I do hope you change your ways. I am hear to wish you luck though in doing just that."
"Come off it master. You wish they had more on me and I could have been put away the rest of my life. But it couldn't happen that way. No I will go home and jointly rule along side of my father. I am not your little waif of a boy like Obi is, who came from nothing. I am almost a prince on my home world and in my father's eyes. So you keep you little bedraggled Obi-Wan and do with him what you will."
"I have no regrets Xanatos. You are pathetic. Obi-Wan is ten times the person you are, even if he was born of poor parents. A title does not make who you are. Just as putting a knight in front of your name did not make you a Jedi, putting a prince before it will not make you a great ruler."
Xanatos had a frown on his face but none of his other emotions was revealed. He would not allow himself to tell his master how much he truly would miss him and that he cared more for him than he did his father. Maybe they would meet one day and he would tell his master these truths but not today.
"Very well master if you have finished your speech you may go now. I know they will be coming for me soon. Maybe our paths will cross again some day."
Jinn only nodded his head in agreement.
"Oh I forgot one thing Xanatos."
Jinn reached down in one of his many pockets of his robe. He pulled out the little ornate gold box.
"I won't be needing this and thought you might want it."
He handed the box to a curious Xanatos.
Xani opened the box that he recognized as the one he gave his master. There in the box his master had placed Xanatos Crion's padawan braid.
The one thing that once meant so much to Master Jinn and Xanatos, now held no meaning at all for either………THE END
If you like my young Obi Qui-Gon and Xanatos' stories please give me feedback so I will know whether to bother to post another one….
I want to say THANX to all of those who did take the time to email me even if it was for grammar and spelling mistakes. I do appreciate even the correction for how else will I learn to improve my writing?
PEACE ewen