RosyRedFingured Dawn - Well, I'm glad I could be of service. Although, I
don't know if the next one will. But I can assure you Obi will not turn to
the darkside. ;) Just read, and you'll see what I mean.
Selina - The funny thing is, that I don't like AU's much either. But I've gotten used to them now, and am enjoying them a bit more. Thank you so very much for taking a chance and reading this one. I greatly appreciate it, as well as the review. Thanks again. :D
Athena Leigh - Sorry that classes have been annoying. In some ways, I'm glad to be out of school and in others I'm not. Life can sometimes be just as annoying. Thanks for your patience. Hope you like it. ;)
ALS - *blush* Aww, thanks. I appreciate that. :D I'll give you a little hint, Qui won't die, but that's all I'm gonna say for the moment. You'll have to read on to understand what I mean. ]:) I hope the ending does the rest of the story justice. Thanks again. :D
Sorry EVERYONE, for not posting yesterday. Work was crazy and I had to take my daughter to the doctor's really quick last night so that through off the rest of my schedule. (Don't worry, she's fine. Just a little virus. ;) ) Anyway, here's the second to last chap. Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowing the Force to guide him, Anakin dove and dodged his way through the hanger bay of the Federation Control Ship. When he noticed the wall coming speedily closer, he responded by slamming on the breaks. Skidding to a halt, he glanced down at his control panel. Every overheating light indicator was flashing at him. He knew he was pushing the meek little vessel too hard, but he could not shake the urgency that drove him.
Movement caught his eye and he looked up to find a group of Battle Droids approaching hesitantly. They were obviously bewildered by the appearance of a Naboo Starfighter in the depths of the hanger. Carefully, they surrounded the craft with blasters drawn.
Anakin did his best to remain calm. Softly he called back to his Astromech Droid, "R2, get those systems back up ASAP." He gave an awkward smile to his spectators. He knew how pointless the effort was, but he could not stop himself.
They were almost on top of him, when he heard the small droid beep and whistle. Taking in his panel again, he watched as all the warning lights disappeared and blinked their readiness. Calling upon the Force again, he yanked on the control stick. He activated his guns and ion canon. For a moment, there was a lapse in restraint, and Anakin allowed his boyish excitement to take over, "Take that. And this," as he fired away.
Suddenly he could see an explosion beyond. One that seemed larger than it should have been for the craft huddled in the area. That's when he realized why the Force led him into the bowels of the ship. He quickly powered up his sleek fighter and high-tailed it out of the Federation Vessel. He could hear the chatter of some of the other pilots.
"Look, it's blowing up from the inside." A female pilot announced.
Ric Olé watched in awe as a chain reaction started well inside Federation Craft. Completely vexed by the cause, he blurted out, "We didn't hit it."
From another vantagepoint, another pilot called, "Look, one of ours out of the hold!"
Anakin had not tramped down his enjoyment yet, as he raced the blast out. As soon as he exited, he let out a shout of excitement. But it was soon dispersed to the wind, when he felt the Force crying out. Pain beckoned him, from many sources. The closest sensations coming from the Neimoidiens inside the Control Ship he just destroyed. But he could also sense it coming from the planet below. But the distance diluted the strength behind it, refusing his ability to pinpoint the cause. Immediately, he navigated the vessel back through the atmosphere and towards the Palace. Whatever it was, he hoped it was not too late.
*
Hoping that he could find a way out, Tarpals looked at his fellow captives. He refused to accept this. He was a warrior to the core, and he would die fighting. He was about to revolt against his captors when they suddenly went dead. Staring at them for a long moment stunned, he realized they were all powered down.
Another Gungan next to him was too baffled by the change, he asked aloud, "What desa doing?"
It hit him instantly, and he replied, "The Control Ship has been destroyed. Look." And he knocked over the nearest BattleDroid. At his light touch, the machine fell over. Others watched this with growing enthusiasm and soon they were all rejoicing in their victory.
*
Struggling for air, the youth curled up on his side. He tried to accept the pain that was inflicted upon him, but it was hard. It wasn't that he had never felt it before, on the contrary, he was very familiar with the sensation. It was just that he had never really had someone witness his abuse before, at least one who didn't enjoy watching his anguish. He felt awkward and ashamed of his behaviour. Now, he lay on the floor gasping for breath. His attacker stopped as he prepared to engage the Jedi Knight in a life and death dance.
He could hear the instant the laser wall sizzled out and the two blades clashed in fevered blows. He managed to push himself back towards the wall of the melting pit and tried to focus on the forms fighting. They were moving so quickly, that he couldn't quite keep up with them. Pouncing, spinning and blocking the two advanced on the other. The dark figure utilized the acrobatic and wild fighting style his Master taught him, driving the older man back.
Qui-Gon knew he was getting tired. The small reprieve in the battle did little to remedy the ache in his body, but he had to press on. He once again wished Anakin had not gone off in the Starfighter, but he could not frustrate himself with such regrets now. He needed all his concentration just to keep up with the Sith Lord. He was already distracted by his need to check on Obi-Wan. Dispersing his anger to the Force, he fought not only for his life and that of a young boy's but also for a clear head.
Images of this foul beast slapping this special child around, causing the innocent youth more pain kept flashing through his mind. He could also hear the words of Tyaña, "Promise me, that you will watch over Obi-Wan. Care for him like a son. He needs guidance. He needs assurance. But most of all he needs love." And now that small child was huddled in a corner fending off the pain of his body. He was failing in his duty, and that was something he could not allow. Calling on a reserve of strength he did not know he had, he charged the dark form.
The fight became more and more intense with each blow. Qui-Gon was tiring quickly and the Sith could see it. A feral grin crossed the tattooed warrior's features taunting the aged-man with his vigor. Obi-Wan could also sense the tension building in the small room. Cautiously he used the wall to gain his footing again. His vision cleared and he was able to follow each stroke as it fell. Ever so steadily, the vicious attacks of the Sith pressed the Knight further back. There were closer to him now, and he could hear their ragged breathing. He held his breath, as the world around him seemed to slow.
Still entranced by the dance, he watched as Maul spun. With a solid kick he knocked the Knight's saber from his grasp, sending it across the room. Vulnerable now, Qui-Gon could do nothing except wait for the killing blow. Maul used his momentum to reverse his spin and prepared to run the Jedi through.
Obi-Wan was in shock, his mind screaming out in protest. Something in him snapped and before he realized what was happening he charged the vile creature. Shouting his agony, he came up behind the Sith. Maul once again reversed his trajectory and thrust the blade back toward his tiny attacker. Obi-Wan skidded to a halt, and stared up into the yellow gaze of the Sith. He was vaguely aware of the desperate cry beyond the dark lord. Half- turning, Maul discovered what he had done. For precious moments he was disturbed by what he saw. His first thought wondered how he would explain this to his Master. But he needn't have worried about it because the matter was already settled.
Qui-Gon stood shocked into stillness. He had just witnessed the valour of the youth he had fought to protect. As the child ran, attempting to prevent the Jedi's death, he in turn could very well have caused his own. Suddenly, the world came crashing down around Qui-Gon and his mind screamed. He only then realized that he was crying out his horror, denying the reality that played out before him.
In the same troubled seconds that Obi-Wan slid off the crimson blade, Qui- Gon recalled his own weapon. Igniting the saber, the familiar glow of green lighted his face. Immediately, he swung out, not caring where his blow might fall as long as the beast that stood before him perished. For just a moment, the creature looked back at the Knight, surprise fully visible in his eyes, before he toppled back into the melting pit.
He rushed to the edge to watch the dark warrior plummet to his death, to be devoured by the flames deep within the melting pit. He wanted to smile, but his training denied him. Instead, his thoughts were drawn back to the small form fading behind him. Deactivating the deadly weapon, he collapsed next to the frail boy. Tears welled in his eyes, as he looked down at the pale face. Carefully, he pulled the young child to him, rocking gently.
"S-sorry. I'm - sor-ry." The shallow breaths were cutting his words. Pain obvious in the quiver of the soft voice.
Qui-Gon quickly tried to still him, "Shh. You have nothing to be sorry for. Save your strength."
Feeling like time was slowly coming to an end, he hastily tried to convey his thoughts. "Wish - I could - have been a - Jedi."
"You will be a Jedi, I promise you." Hurriedly, he assured the youth in his arms but he found it hard to keep his voice steady.
"Like - you?" A sparkle lit the rolling oceans, clear blue-green seas darkening to murky waters. A small hope drifted on the words, causing the serene man's breath to hitch. How he wished he was able to train the boy. A child who had wormed his way into the Jedi's heart, quickly taking root where he previously thought nothing would ever grow again.
Desperation filled Qui-Gon. He could not loose this treasure so soon. Their journey had only just begun. Curtly, he nodded as he sought to keep his tone sure. "Yes, like me." A gentle smile graced the smooth features before turning back into a grimace. A soft moan escaped the boy as he fought the pain. Almost frantic, the Knight urged, "Hold on, Obi-Wan. You don't want me to break my promise to Tyaña."
Once he managed to control the agony that burned through his abdomen, he let out a deep breath. "Cold. Tired." His strength was fading, he could sense that these would be his last few moments.
Qui-Gon could sense it as well. But he was not one to give up so easily. "Stay with me, Obi-Wan. It is not your time." His tone was husky from penned up emotions. His grip tightened as he willed the child to heed his command.
There was no remorse in Obi-Wan. Despite his wish to become a Jedi, he was content with his life. He had found the one thing he desired most of all, his freedom. He had one last thing to say before he drew his last breath. Gathering the faint remnants of his life, he whispered, "Thank you - for saving - me."
-------------------------------------------------------------
"Hello, you've reached the end of the post. The author has left for the moment to avoid the lynch mob. If you would please leave a review, she will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you. *Beep*"
:D
Selina - The funny thing is, that I don't like AU's much either. But I've gotten used to them now, and am enjoying them a bit more. Thank you so very much for taking a chance and reading this one. I greatly appreciate it, as well as the review. Thanks again. :D
Athena Leigh - Sorry that classes have been annoying. In some ways, I'm glad to be out of school and in others I'm not. Life can sometimes be just as annoying. Thanks for your patience. Hope you like it. ;)
ALS - *blush* Aww, thanks. I appreciate that. :D I'll give you a little hint, Qui won't die, but that's all I'm gonna say for the moment. You'll have to read on to understand what I mean. ]:) I hope the ending does the rest of the story justice. Thanks again. :D
Sorry EVERYONE, for not posting yesterday. Work was crazy and I had to take my daughter to the doctor's really quick last night so that through off the rest of my schedule. (Don't worry, she's fine. Just a little virus. ;) ) Anyway, here's the second to last chap. Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowing the Force to guide him, Anakin dove and dodged his way through the hanger bay of the Federation Control Ship. When he noticed the wall coming speedily closer, he responded by slamming on the breaks. Skidding to a halt, he glanced down at his control panel. Every overheating light indicator was flashing at him. He knew he was pushing the meek little vessel too hard, but he could not shake the urgency that drove him.
Movement caught his eye and he looked up to find a group of Battle Droids approaching hesitantly. They were obviously bewildered by the appearance of a Naboo Starfighter in the depths of the hanger. Carefully, they surrounded the craft with blasters drawn.
Anakin did his best to remain calm. Softly he called back to his Astromech Droid, "R2, get those systems back up ASAP." He gave an awkward smile to his spectators. He knew how pointless the effort was, but he could not stop himself.
They were almost on top of him, when he heard the small droid beep and whistle. Taking in his panel again, he watched as all the warning lights disappeared and blinked their readiness. Calling upon the Force again, he yanked on the control stick. He activated his guns and ion canon. For a moment, there was a lapse in restraint, and Anakin allowed his boyish excitement to take over, "Take that. And this," as he fired away.
Suddenly he could see an explosion beyond. One that seemed larger than it should have been for the craft huddled in the area. That's when he realized why the Force led him into the bowels of the ship. He quickly powered up his sleek fighter and high-tailed it out of the Federation Vessel. He could hear the chatter of some of the other pilots.
"Look, it's blowing up from the inside." A female pilot announced.
Ric Olé watched in awe as a chain reaction started well inside Federation Craft. Completely vexed by the cause, he blurted out, "We didn't hit it."
From another vantagepoint, another pilot called, "Look, one of ours out of the hold!"
Anakin had not tramped down his enjoyment yet, as he raced the blast out. As soon as he exited, he let out a shout of excitement. But it was soon dispersed to the wind, when he felt the Force crying out. Pain beckoned him, from many sources. The closest sensations coming from the Neimoidiens inside the Control Ship he just destroyed. But he could also sense it coming from the planet below. But the distance diluted the strength behind it, refusing his ability to pinpoint the cause. Immediately, he navigated the vessel back through the atmosphere and towards the Palace. Whatever it was, he hoped it was not too late.
*
Hoping that he could find a way out, Tarpals looked at his fellow captives. He refused to accept this. He was a warrior to the core, and he would die fighting. He was about to revolt against his captors when they suddenly went dead. Staring at them for a long moment stunned, he realized they were all powered down.
Another Gungan next to him was too baffled by the change, he asked aloud, "What desa doing?"
It hit him instantly, and he replied, "The Control Ship has been destroyed. Look." And he knocked over the nearest BattleDroid. At his light touch, the machine fell over. Others watched this with growing enthusiasm and soon they were all rejoicing in their victory.
*
Struggling for air, the youth curled up on his side. He tried to accept the pain that was inflicted upon him, but it was hard. It wasn't that he had never felt it before, on the contrary, he was very familiar with the sensation. It was just that he had never really had someone witness his abuse before, at least one who didn't enjoy watching his anguish. He felt awkward and ashamed of his behaviour. Now, he lay on the floor gasping for breath. His attacker stopped as he prepared to engage the Jedi Knight in a life and death dance.
He could hear the instant the laser wall sizzled out and the two blades clashed in fevered blows. He managed to push himself back towards the wall of the melting pit and tried to focus on the forms fighting. They were moving so quickly, that he couldn't quite keep up with them. Pouncing, spinning and blocking the two advanced on the other. The dark figure utilized the acrobatic and wild fighting style his Master taught him, driving the older man back.
Qui-Gon knew he was getting tired. The small reprieve in the battle did little to remedy the ache in his body, but he had to press on. He once again wished Anakin had not gone off in the Starfighter, but he could not frustrate himself with such regrets now. He needed all his concentration just to keep up with the Sith Lord. He was already distracted by his need to check on Obi-Wan. Dispersing his anger to the Force, he fought not only for his life and that of a young boy's but also for a clear head.
Images of this foul beast slapping this special child around, causing the innocent youth more pain kept flashing through his mind. He could also hear the words of Tyaña, "Promise me, that you will watch over Obi-Wan. Care for him like a son. He needs guidance. He needs assurance. But most of all he needs love." And now that small child was huddled in a corner fending off the pain of his body. He was failing in his duty, and that was something he could not allow. Calling on a reserve of strength he did not know he had, he charged the dark form.
The fight became more and more intense with each blow. Qui-Gon was tiring quickly and the Sith could see it. A feral grin crossed the tattooed warrior's features taunting the aged-man with his vigor. Obi-Wan could also sense the tension building in the small room. Cautiously he used the wall to gain his footing again. His vision cleared and he was able to follow each stroke as it fell. Ever so steadily, the vicious attacks of the Sith pressed the Knight further back. There were closer to him now, and he could hear their ragged breathing. He held his breath, as the world around him seemed to slow.
Still entranced by the dance, he watched as Maul spun. With a solid kick he knocked the Knight's saber from his grasp, sending it across the room. Vulnerable now, Qui-Gon could do nothing except wait for the killing blow. Maul used his momentum to reverse his spin and prepared to run the Jedi through.
Obi-Wan was in shock, his mind screaming out in protest. Something in him snapped and before he realized what was happening he charged the vile creature. Shouting his agony, he came up behind the Sith. Maul once again reversed his trajectory and thrust the blade back toward his tiny attacker. Obi-Wan skidded to a halt, and stared up into the yellow gaze of the Sith. He was vaguely aware of the desperate cry beyond the dark lord. Half- turning, Maul discovered what he had done. For precious moments he was disturbed by what he saw. His first thought wondered how he would explain this to his Master. But he needn't have worried about it because the matter was already settled.
Qui-Gon stood shocked into stillness. He had just witnessed the valour of the youth he had fought to protect. As the child ran, attempting to prevent the Jedi's death, he in turn could very well have caused his own. Suddenly, the world came crashing down around Qui-Gon and his mind screamed. He only then realized that he was crying out his horror, denying the reality that played out before him.
In the same troubled seconds that Obi-Wan slid off the crimson blade, Qui- Gon recalled his own weapon. Igniting the saber, the familiar glow of green lighted his face. Immediately, he swung out, not caring where his blow might fall as long as the beast that stood before him perished. For just a moment, the creature looked back at the Knight, surprise fully visible in his eyes, before he toppled back into the melting pit.
He rushed to the edge to watch the dark warrior plummet to his death, to be devoured by the flames deep within the melting pit. He wanted to smile, but his training denied him. Instead, his thoughts were drawn back to the small form fading behind him. Deactivating the deadly weapon, he collapsed next to the frail boy. Tears welled in his eyes, as he looked down at the pale face. Carefully, he pulled the young child to him, rocking gently.
"S-sorry. I'm - sor-ry." The shallow breaths were cutting his words. Pain obvious in the quiver of the soft voice.
Qui-Gon quickly tried to still him, "Shh. You have nothing to be sorry for. Save your strength."
Feeling like time was slowly coming to an end, he hastily tried to convey his thoughts. "Wish - I could - have been a - Jedi."
"You will be a Jedi, I promise you." Hurriedly, he assured the youth in his arms but he found it hard to keep his voice steady.
"Like - you?" A sparkle lit the rolling oceans, clear blue-green seas darkening to murky waters. A small hope drifted on the words, causing the serene man's breath to hitch. How he wished he was able to train the boy. A child who had wormed his way into the Jedi's heart, quickly taking root where he previously thought nothing would ever grow again.
Desperation filled Qui-Gon. He could not loose this treasure so soon. Their journey had only just begun. Curtly, he nodded as he sought to keep his tone sure. "Yes, like me." A gentle smile graced the smooth features before turning back into a grimace. A soft moan escaped the boy as he fought the pain. Almost frantic, the Knight urged, "Hold on, Obi-Wan. You don't want me to break my promise to Tyaña."
Once he managed to control the agony that burned through his abdomen, he let out a deep breath. "Cold. Tired." His strength was fading, he could sense that these would be his last few moments.
Qui-Gon could sense it as well. But he was not one to give up so easily. "Stay with me, Obi-Wan. It is not your time." His tone was husky from penned up emotions. His grip tightened as he willed the child to heed his command.
There was no remorse in Obi-Wan. Despite his wish to become a Jedi, he was content with his life. He had found the one thing he desired most of all, his freedom. He had one last thing to say before he drew his last breath. Gathering the faint remnants of his life, he whispered, "Thank you - for saving - me."
-------------------------------------------------------------
"Hello, you've reached the end of the post. The author has left for the moment to avoid the lynch mob. If you would please leave a review, she will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you. *Beep*"
:D