This is part three of Jealousy!!! I've added some new content to this
chapter, and although it is just a small bit I think that it is a huge
difference! Remember to review and let me know what you think at the end,
maybe you can give me some ideas to where this story is going.
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The picture was horrifying. She didn't know where it had come from, or what the meaning of it was, but it was terrifying. She struggled but she couldn't get it off her mind. And the weird thing was she couldn't understand it, she just knew that it was something evil. Soon the image was drilled deep into her memory, buried in a place that was hard to reach. * * *
"You do realize that he said 7:00 sharp Anakin Skywalker!" Raina was growing impatient and by now, she had lost count of the numerous times she had raised her voice to Anakin. He was just an impossible person to get along with! She had tried to be the voice of reason, but there was no convincing this boy. Immediately after the meeting, she had gone and packed her things, which wasn't much at all. Then she had gone to find Anakin to no avail, and was about to give up when he appeared out of nowhere. Why did she even bother? That was a question she seemed to be asking herself more and more.
"And you do realize that the time is 6:59! It won't take long to get to the dinner hall, it's just around the corner." Anakin stated, but then Raina noticed a subtle change of pace in his steps. She shook her head and remained silent. She had nothing more to say because they were going to be late, and it would be all because of Anakin. It made Raina wonder if he always acted this way: like he was in control of everything.
The earlier meeting with the council had not left her mind, especially the behaviour of Master Obi-wan. She had never seen him so anxious and worried about anything, he had always been calm and collected. But today he was different. She had seen a side of Obi-wan that she didn't enjoy. Raina had always viewed her masters and mentors as if they were invincible, but it was not reality. Try as she might, she could not brush it off of her mind as simply as she would have liked.
Anakin's actions during the meeting had also struck her as odd. He had acted serious and mature, a way he had never acted before. Raina had also felt Anakin comforting her.she just didn't know why, and she didn't know what to make of it. Lately he had been acting strange around her, and it bothered her.
Her tolerance for Anakin had increased over the past few weeks, which to Raina was a great surprise. Usually she shuddered at the sound of his name. But lately, she was starting to care less about her hate towards him, but it was still there.
The little things about Anakin had always annoyed her. Like that stupefied grin he got whenever Raina made a quick comment about him. And the fact that he never got the hint when she wanted him to go away. He was like a bug, always buzzing around your ear at the right moment that will annoy you the most. Raina hated bugs.
Once again, whenever the thought of hate popped into her head, she immediately felt guilty. After all she was a Jedi, and feelings of hate weren't supposed to be there.but they were.
By now, she knew it was past 7:00 sharp. Raina knew that she couldn't trust Anakin to be on time, or anything for that matter. He was just an undependable guy, another character flaw that bothered her.
"You do realize what Master Obi-wan is going to say." Raina muttered as they walked through the entrance to the dining hall. Anakin began to protest, but was interrupted.
"You are late." It was a statement that did not sound good. The look on Obi- wan's face explained that easily enough. "What might be your reason this time Anakin? You lost track of time again? You got lost?" by his sarcastic tone, Raina could tell that Anakin had a habit of being tardy.
Her mouth opened before she realized what she was doing, "Sorry, Master. I had taken a nap, and had failed to wake up in time to prepare for tomorrow's trip." she was sticking up for Anakin. "Luckily Anakin had stopped by to accompany me to the dining hall." what was she doing? "He woke me up and we rushed here."
Raina received a bewildered glance from Anakin. Never before had she stuck up for him. She always stood in silence as Anakin was lectured, taking pleasure in the sight. "It's ok now." Obi-wan said in a calmer tone. "Don't let this happen again." with that he turned and walked away. Anakin stared at Raina in shock
"What was that about? You never defend me!" Raina shrugged and started walking. "You better watch it Raina, you're turning into a softy!" he teased. Maybe Anakin wasn't as dumb as he acted after all.
~
The three of them had eaten barely anything during supper. Maybe they were nervous, no they were very nervous...their appetite explained that well enough. What had they gotten themselves into?
After sitting in an uncomfortable silence for several minutes, Obi-wan finally spoke. "The mission we have accepted to take is more dangerous than you two might deem possible. We have gotten ourselves into a very complicated mess." Raina started to fidget, as she usually did when she was worried. "You two must understand that when we leave this temple you are my responsibility. You cannot disobey my orders. You have to do as I ask, when I ask. You must trust my judgment, and listen carefully to what I say. You must think before you act, and when you do you must act carefully." Obi-wan was serious beyond belief. "If you do not follow my instructions, you may lose your life." he stated it simply. That was the only way to say it.
Suddenly Raina's mind flooded with horrible images. She shuddered, and both Anakin and Obi-wan sensed her discomfort. "Raina. If you are uncomfortable with these facts, you can back out now." he eyes shot up and met with Obi- wan's. How could she not go when Anakin was? That was impossible. "You have to make your decision now."
"I'm going." There was no way she was missing out on this.
"Very well, I want you two to go straight to your quarters and get some rest. We are leaving early and I want you to be at the hanger at 6:00." He stood, preparing to leave. "Do not be late," he reminded them.
~
Anakin had escorted Raina back to her sleeping quarters. At the moment she was staying in the girl's dormitory, in a room with three other girls. These arrangements were temporary, and fine by her. Of course, she had to be alone when she needed company the most. All of the other girls were off aiding Jedi Masters with missions, just as she was about to. She knew that these were tests, seeing if the students were ready for full-fledged apprenticeship.
"You didn't have to walk me to my door Anakin." and I'd have preferred that you not "I know my way around the temple by now." she teased. But still, it was a small comfort for what was about to come.
"I know that. The truth is I need the company too." he was quiet now, lost in his thoughts. "Raina, there is something more to this mission. I can feel it...why can't I see what they're hiding from us?" he said, referring to the Jedi Masters. "There is something more to it. I know Obi-wan, and he's been on more threatening assignments than this. I haven't seen him worried about anything as much as this. He's hiding something, I can tell." Anakin's words struck her as odd. How could he know that there was more to it? Was he really that attuned to the force? "I'm worried Raina. For everything.even you."
She looked up at Anakin in surprise. "I know you're scared. I am too." her heart started beating faster; she didn't know what to think. "Don't try to be so tough." Unexpectedly, Anakin leaned in and kissed her cheek. Raina was shocked. "I know you don't like me, and I'm not sure why. I just want you to know, if you need any help.I'm here for you. Especially on this mission, so don't worry." he smiled, and walked away slowly. "Goodnight, I'll see you in the morning."
Raina watched him as he slowly walked away. "Goodnight." she whispered. She felt her cheek, smiled and entered her room. What is going on here? She thought; this isn't me. I don't have feelings like this for Anakin. I'm a Jedi! And this is Anakin.just Anakin.
~
Raina's eyes opened immediately. The room was pitch black and was silent, except for her breathing. She yawned and rolled over in her small bed, fighting back the urge to close her eyes again.
Finally she sat up slowly, which took a lot of effort and yawned. The room was cold and she quickly grabbed her blanket and wrapped it around her. Raina got up and walked to the window, and opened the blinds. Of course it was 5:00, so the sun wasn't up. But the bright lights from the towering buildings that surrounded the temple were enough to blind her. She shook her head, this planet never sleeps.
Raina stood staring out the window for a while, taking in all the familiar scenery. Her mind began to flood with doubts and worries, this trip was no vacation and she knew that. Dangerous things were about to take place; she could feel it in her bones. A shiver went up her spine then she snapped back to the present. "Time to take a shower." she mumbled.
~
By now Raina was finished getting ready, and she was pretty hungry. It was 5:25 and she thought that she would have just enough time to eat breakfast, if she hurried.
She quickly pulled her hair back into a loose ponytail and ran out the door. As soon as she passed through the doorway, she felt a sharp pain on her temple and her hands shot up to her head. Raina doubled over, and she cried out in pain. Then everything went black.
~
Raina woke up to the comfort of her bed. Her vision was blurry, and all that was visible was a tall figure looming above her, and she couldn't quite make out what he was saying. She moaned in pain and once again she felt her temples.
"Raina!" she heard her name, but wasn't sure who had called her. "It's me, Anakin." She heard him, but she couldn't see him. Then her vision cleared, and Raina saw a concerned pair of dark blue eyes belonging to Anakin. She wanted to smile, but she couldn't. She felt frozen like ice, and she wouldn't melt.
Her eyes would not stay open. They grew heavy, and she was too tired and weak to fight it. They closed, and her name was called again, but this time she didn't hear it.
Raina laid still in a restless and tormenting sleep. Alarming pictures flashed through her mind, frightening her in a conscious oblivion. The images weren't clear, but they were horrible and threatening.
She could feel the beads of sweat drip down her face. Her mind was racing and her head was pounding. Then everything was still once again.
~ This time when Raina awoke, she was fully conscious, and very aware of her surroundings. Her memory was blurred, but she was pretty sure that she had been in her room before. Now she was lying on a bed in the Medical Wing. She looked around, and noticed that the sun was up. She closed her eyes and sighed. It was way past 6:00 now! What happened with the mission? Did they leave without her?
"Oh, you're up now!" Raina turned her head to see a grinning Anakin, "I was really worried about you." he came quickly to her side and wrapped his arms around her. Her eyes closed, and then memories of the night before filled her mind. She sighed, and Anakin noticed. He let go of her quickly and smiled sheepishly. "Sorry about that. But I really was worried about you."
"So was I." Obi-wan's presence wasn't a comforting one. Scared of being blamed for the missed departure, she faced Obi-wan slowly.
"Hello. I'm feeling much better." which was true. "I'm not sure what was wrong with me. I just know that it was." something flashed in her mind, causing a slight ache. "Not normal." she finished.
Anakin was staring at Raina intently, and she had a feeling he felt it too. "At about 5:45 Anakin found you lying at the foot of your door. You were squirming in pain, and clearly unconscious." dark brown eyes met dark blue. "He moved you to your room, and then he called me. You did regain consciousness once."
"Yes. I remember that. I just couldn't stay awake," she added shaking her head.
"Then we moved you to the Medical Wing. That was about half an hour ago." Anakin told her quickly. He really had been worried, and it was a small comfort. He deserves a smile she thought playfully.
"What about the mission Master?" it popped out of her mouth quite suddenly. But it was pretty important! Raina just felt horrible about this whole mess, but really what could she do about it?
"It has been delayed for the time being." The answer she was dreading. "Until you are well enough to travel, which we are hoping will be soon." That was her cue.
"I am feeling much better, and I think that I have regained my strength." To prove her point she sat up in her bed. "I can't explain what happened, but I will try." That statement attracted both Anakin and Obi-wan's attention. She closed her eyes, expecting the flashes to return - but they did not. "It was.almost 5:30. I was ready and wanted to eat breakfast before we departed, so I ran out the door. Then as soon as I passed through the doorway.my head just started pounding horribly. I remember grabbing my head, and falling over, but not much after that."
The room was dead silent. All three of the Jedi were thinking over the events Raina had explained. But Obi-wan and Anakin could not be fooled. There was something more to her story than she would tell.
"Are you sure that's it?" the inquiry startled Raina. There had been more to it, but how do you explain such things? "It feels like there is something you're not telling me." He had said me.not us as he should have. Anakin was only thinking of himself at the moment, anyone could tell he really cared for Raina.
"We-ell." she sighed, and closed her eyes fearing anything to happen. "Maybe they were visions, I'm not sure. Whatever they were, it was not good." She looked at Obi-wan and he appeared deep in thought. "They were flashes of alarming pictures, but pictures of what, I'm not sure. They scared me, I know that. I just couldn't wake up and they wouldn't stop." A sob escaped her mouth, and her hand shot up to stifle the surprising noise. Never before had she shown such feelings towards anyone. And the first time she did, it just had to be in front of Anakin. Now what is he going to think?
What could possibly make her cry, when she didn't know what she was crying about? The visions had some hold on her, maybe threatening something dear to her. But what could it be?
Shaking her head in disgust, she looked at Obi-wan. "I don't know what's got into me! I can't control myself, and I don't know why." For the first time in a couple minutes Raina realized that Anakin was staring at her. "What are you looking at?" she snapped a little too defensively. Immediately she felt sorry for saying it, but she couldn't break the habit.
"Nothing," He was hurt. "Nothing at all." His cool blue eyes, turned icy and the look on his face didn't look good at all. "Excuse me." Anakin turned and left the room, leaving Raina alone with Obi-wan. ~
She had been discharged from the Medical Wing, and was expected to attend an emergency meeting concerning her apparent 'visions'. Of course, she wasn't sure if it was that important that they need such a meeting, but they were the council and they knew what they were doing. Raina trudged to the Council room, this time alone. Anakin had stormed out of the room because of her, and she felt bad.
After all, she had snapped at him over nothing, but lately, it did seem like something. He had kissed her last night, and she often caught him staring at her when he thought she wasn't aware. But Raina sensed everything. She felt his presence whenever he was near, and always knew when he was looking at her.
It's not that she needed to know exactly what Anakin was up to, actually far from it. She just always sensed him because she couldn't stand him.
Whenever he was near, she felt a shiver on her spine. Not because she was excited, but because he annoyed her. Anakin annoyed her a lot.
Since the first time she laid eyes on Anakin, she disliked him. It was jealousy and the hate she had for him deep down in her heart. Of course she had tried to trick herself into liking Anakin, at least just a bit, but no matter how hard she tried it didn't work. Nothing did, and she wasn't sure if anything would.
Once again, the council headquarters loomed ahead, and once again she wasn't sure what to expect of this visit.
Lately Raina wasn't sure of anything. She had always been in control of everything possible. And since this mission had been assigned to her, she felt useless. She couldn't control her emotions, and had embarrassed herself in front of her master and her enemy.
She had been attacked mentally by an unknown force. Raina had no control over these attacks, and she didn't know when to expect them. She wouldn't close her eyes, for fear of it happening again. And come to think of it, what would happen when she passed through that door to the Council room?
"Raina!" she heard her name, and turned to see Obi-wan. It was a good sign that she wasn't late. "Have you seen Anakin since this morning? I cannot find him, and I don't want him to be late." Uh-oh, now what did Anakin go and do?
"Well, I'm right here." Anakin's voice startled her. He sounded different, there was an edge to his voice, and it wasn't pleasant. "I was meditating Master, but now I am here."
"Good, we wouldn't want you to be late, especially for a meeting such as this." Then, as if on cue Corrine appeared from behind the large doors. "Time for answers," that comment surprised Raina. Now she knew that the Council wasn't telling them everything. If the council was telling everything, the three of them wouldn't be looking for answers.
Raina needed answers; to everything happening that was unexplainable. And at the moment almost everything was mysterious. It was like an unsolved mystery that could only end up bad if they didn't get answers soon.
"The Council is ready for you now." Corrine supplied. She beckoned for them to enter the room, and they accepted the 'offer'.
This visit was much different. The air was filled with concern and confusion; even a youngling could detect that. "How are you feeling Raina?" the question startled her, but it was imperative. For that attack was what this meeting was about, so everybody needed as well of an explanation she could provide. Nobody had said anything, but she knew that in order for the flashes to be explained, she would have to do some explaining herself.
"I'm fine now, but earlier I was in poor health. If it wasn't for Anakin, I'm not sure what could have happened." She had to give him some credit, he did save her, even if the attacks weren't life threatening. Then it hit her. What would have happened if Anakin didn't find her lying there? What then? "There were flashes of pictures, but I cannot remember what they were of. She closed her eyes, trying to remember the feeling, without it actually happening again. "I had spasms of pain on my temples. I remember reaching for my head, trying to make it stop, and then I doubled over in pain." Her eyes snapped open; she was doing a good job remembering, she almost relived the experience. "Then I woke up in my room, unaware of my surroundings. I tried to fight the sleepiness, but I couldn't. It started all over again. I woke up a second time, but this time I was in the Medical Wing."
"Interesting, we are all glad that you are well." She nodded her head in agreement. "Raina, did you ever think that this case is not the only one we've seen?" Mace asked carefully, "There have been a couple I believe, and they did not happen in the best of circumstances either." What was he trying to tell them? That she wasn't the only weird one after all? He sighed, and began "When an attack like this happens it can only mean that something bad is about to come. The person that has these visions has a huge part to play during the.event. And these visions aren't the best pictures either."
"So you're saying that something horrible is about to happen, and it has to do with me?" she couldn't wait for the full explanation, this news was quite frightening.
"Yes." She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "I'm sorry, but there is no way to avoid this now." Her faced dropped, and so did her spirit. "Now, about the mission; there is still the matter of the disappearances on Abhor. Of course we will have to take greater precautions with it, and this just cannot be ignored."
"When will we be departing, Master?" Anakin questioned without warning, it was the first time he had spoken since the meeting had begun.
"As soon as possible, if you are well enough, Raina." It seemed as if everything was revolving around her. She nodded her head in approval. "Then you will leave as soon as you are prepared, we will meet you in the hanger bay." It was settled then.
Obi-wan nodded his head, and they were dismissed. They exited silently, feeling as confused as ever, and without the answers they had come for.
~
What will happen to them as they travel to Abhor, not knowing what to expect? Remember to review so I know where this is going!!!
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The picture was horrifying. She didn't know where it had come from, or what the meaning of it was, but it was terrifying. She struggled but she couldn't get it off her mind. And the weird thing was she couldn't understand it, she just knew that it was something evil. Soon the image was drilled deep into her memory, buried in a place that was hard to reach. * * *
"You do realize that he said 7:00 sharp Anakin Skywalker!" Raina was growing impatient and by now, she had lost count of the numerous times she had raised her voice to Anakin. He was just an impossible person to get along with! She had tried to be the voice of reason, but there was no convincing this boy. Immediately after the meeting, she had gone and packed her things, which wasn't much at all. Then she had gone to find Anakin to no avail, and was about to give up when he appeared out of nowhere. Why did she even bother? That was a question she seemed to be asking herself more and more.
"And you do realize that the time is 6:59! It won't take long to get to the dinner hall, it's just around the corner." Anakin stated, but then Raina noticed a subtle change of pace in his steps. She shook her head and remained silent. She had nothing more to say because they were going to be late, and it would be all because of Anakin. It made Raina wonder if he always acted this way: like he was in control of everything.
The earlier meeting with the council had not left her mind, especially the behaviour of Master Obi-wan. She had never seen him so anxious and worried about anything, he had always been calm and collected. But today he was different. She had seen a side of Obi-wan that she didn't enjoy. Raina had always viewed her masters and mentors as if they were invincible, but it was not reality. Try as she might, she could not brush it off of her mind as simply as she would have liked.
Anakin's actions during the meeting had also struck her as odd. He had acted serious and mature, a way he had never acted before. Raina had also felt Anakin comforting her.she just didn't know why, and she didn't know what to make of it. Lately he had been acting strange around her, and it bothered her.
Her tolerance for Anakin had increased over the past few weeks, which to Raina was a great surprise. Usually she shuddered at the sound of his name. But lately, she was starting to care less about her hate towards him, but it was still there.
The little things about Anakin had always annoyed her. Like that stupefied grin he got whenever Raina made a quick comment about him. And the fact that he never got the hint when she wanted him to go away. He was like a bug, always buzzing around your ear at the right moment that will annoy you the most. Raina hated bugs.
Once again, whenever the thought of hate popped into her head, she immediately felt guilty. After all she was a Jedi, and feelings of hate weren't supposed to be there.but they were.
By now, she knew it was past 7:00 sharp. Raina knew that she couldn't trust Anakin to be on time, or anything for that matter. He was just an undependable guy, another character flaw that bothered her.
"You do realize what Master Obi-wan is going to say." Raina muttered as they walked through the entrance to the dining hall. Anakin began to protest, but was interrupted.
"You are late." It was a statement that did not sound good. The look on Obi- wan's face explained that easily enough. "What might be your reason this time Anakin? You lost track of time again? You got lost?" by his sarcastic tone, Raina could tell that Anakin had a habit of being tardy.
Her mouth opened before she realized what she was doing, "Sorry, Master. I had taken a nap, and had failed to wake up in time to prepare for tomorrow's trip." she was sticking up for Anakin. "Luckily Anakin had stopped by to accompany me to the dining hall." what was she doing? "He woke me up and we rushed here."
Raina received a bewildered glance from Anakin. Never before had she stuck up for him. She always stood in silence as Anakin was lectured, taking pleasure in the sight. "It's ok now." Obi-wan said in a calmer tone. "Don't let this happen again." with that he turned and walked away. Anakin stared at Raina in shock
"What was that about? You never defend me!" Raina shrugged and started walking. "You better watch it Raina, you're turning into a softy!" he teased. Maybe Anakin wasn't as dumb as he acted after all.
~
The three of them had eaten barely anything during supper. Maybe they were nervous, no they were very nervous...their appetite explained that well enough. What had they gotten themselves into?
After sitting in an uncomfortable silence for several minutes, Obi-wan finally spoke. "The mission we have accepted to take is more dangerous than you two might deem possible. We have gotten ourselves into a very complicated mess." Raina started to fidget, as she usually did when she was worried. "You two must understand that when we leave this temple you are my responsibility. You cannot disobey my orders. You have to do as I ask, when I ask. You must trust my judgment, and listen carefully to what I say. You must think before you act, and when you do you must act carefully." Obi-wan was serious beyond belief. "If you do not follow my instructions, you may lose your life." he stated it simply. That was the only way to say it.
Suddenly Raina's mind flooded with horrible images. She shuddered, and both Anakin and Obi-wan sensed her discomfort. "Raina. If you are uncomfortable with these facts, you can back out now." he eyes shot up and met with Obi- wan's. How could she not go when Anakin was? That was impossible. "You have to make your decision now."
"I'm going." There was no way she was missing out on this.
"Very well, I want you two to go straight to your quarters and get some rest. We are leaving early and I want you to be at the hanger at 6:00." He stood, preparing to leave. "Do not be late," he reminded them.
~
Anakin had escorted Raina back to her sleeping quarters. At the moment she was staying in the girl's dormitory, in a room with three other girls. These arrangements were temporary, and fine by her. Of course, she had to be alone when she needed company the most. All of the other girls were off aiding Jedi Masters with missions, just as she was about to. She knew that these were tests, seeing if the students were ready for full-fledged apprenticeship.
"You didn't have to walk me to my door Anakin." and I'd have preferred that you not "I know my way around the temple by now." she teased. But still, it was a small comfort for what was about to come.
"I know that. The truth is I need the company too." he was quiet now, lost in his thoughts. "Raina, there is something more to this mission. I can feel it...why can't I see what they're hiding from us?" he said, referring to the Jedi Masters. "There is something more to it. I know Obi-wan, and he's been on more threatening assignments than this. I haven't seen him worried about anything as much as this. He's hiding something, I can tell." Anakin's words struck her as odd. How could he know that there was more to it? Was he really that attuned to the force? "I'm worried Raina. For everything.even you."
She looked up at Anakin in surprise. "I know you're scared. I am too." her heart started beating faster; she didn't know what to think. "Don't try to be so tough." Unexpectedly, Anakin leaned in and kissed her cheek. Raina was shocked. "I know you don't like me, and I'm not sure why. I just want you to know, if you need any help.I'm here for you. Especially on this mission, so don't worry." he smiled, and walked away slowly. "Goodnight, I'll see you in the morning."
Raina watched him as he slowly walked away. "Goodnight." she whispered. She felt her cheek, smiled and entered her room. What is going on here? She thought; this isn't me. I don't have feelings like this for Anakin. I'm a Jedi! And this is Anakin.just Anakin.
~
Raina's eyes opened immediately. The room was pitch black and was silent, except for her breathing. She yawned and rolled over in her small bed, fighting back the urge to close her eyes again.
Finally she sat up slowly, which took a lot of effort and yawned. The room was cold and she quickly grabbed her blanket and wrapped it around her. Raina got up and walked to the window, and opened the blinds. Of course it was 5:00, so the sun wasn't up. But the bright lights from the towering buildings that surrounded the temple were enough to blind her. She shook her head, this planet never sleeps.
Raina stood staring out the window for a while, taking in all the familiar scenery. Her mind began to flood with doubts and worries, this trip was no vacation and she knew that. Dangerous things were about to take place; she could feel it in her bones. A shiver went up her spine then she snapped back to the present. "Time to take a shower." she mumbled.
~
By now Raina was finished getting ready, and she was pretty hungry. It was 5:25 and she thought that she would have just enough time to eat breakfast, if she hurried.
She quickly pulled her hair back into a loose ponytail and ran out the door. As soon as she passed through the doorway, she felt a sharp pain on her temple and her hands shot up to her head. Raina doubled over, and she cried out in pain. Then everything went black.
~
Raina woke up to the comfort of her bed. Her vision was blurry, and all that was visible was a tall figure looming above her, and she couldn't quite make out what he was saying. She moaned in pain and once again she felt her temples.
"Raina!" she heard her name, but wasn't sure who had called her. "It's me, Anakin." She heard him, but she couldn't see him. Then her vision cleared, and Raina saw a concerned pair of dark blue eyes belonging to Anakin. She wanted to smile, but she couldn't. She felt frozen like ice, and she wouldn't melt.
Her eyes would not stay open. They grew heavy, and she was too tired and weak to fight it. They closed, and her name was called again, but this time she didn't hear it.
Raina laid still in a restless and tormenting sleep. Alarming pictures flashed through her mind, frightening her in a conscious oblivion. The images weren't clear, but they were horrible and threatening.
She could feel the beads of sweat drip down her face. Her mind was racing and her head was pounding. Then everything was still once again.
~ This time when Raina awoke, she was fully conscious, and very aware of her surroundings. Her memory was blurred, but she was pretty sure that she had been in her room before. Now she was lying on a bed in the Medical Wing. She looked around, and noticed that the sun was up. She closed her eyes and sighed. It was way past 6:00 now! What happened with the mission? Did they leave without her?
"Oh, you're up now!" Raina turned her head to see a grinning Anakin, "I was really worried about you." he came quickly to her side and wrapped his arms around her. Her eyes closed, and then memories of the night before filled her mind. She sighed, and Anakin noticed. He let go of her quickly and smiled sheepishly. "Sorry about that. But I really was worried about you."
"So was I." Obi-wan's presence wasn't a comforting one. Scared of being blamed for the missed departure, she faced Obi-wan slowly.
"Hello. I'm feeling much better." which was true. "I'm not sure what was wrong with me. I just know that it was." something flashed in her mind, causing a slight ache. "Not normal." she finished.
Anakin was staring at Raina intently, and she had a feeling he felt it too. "At about 5:45 Anakin found you lying at the foot of your door. You were squirming in pain, and clearly unconscious." dark brown eyes met dark blue. "He moved you to your room, and then he called me. You did regain consciousness once."
"Yes. I remember that. I just couldn't stay awake," she added shaking her head.
"Then we moved you to the Medical Wing. That was about half an hour ago." Anakin told her quickly. He really had been worried, and it was a small comfort. He deserves a smile she thought playfully.
"What about the mission Master?" it popped out of her mouth quite suddenly. But it was pretty important! Raina just felt horrible about this whole mess, but really what could she do about it?
"It has been delayed for the time being." The answer she was dreading. "Until you are well enough to travel, which we are hoping will be soon." That was her cue.
"I am feeling much better, and I think that I have regained my strength." To prove her point she sat up in her bed. "I can't explain what happened, but I will try." That statement attracted both Anakin and Obi-wan's attention. She closed her eyes, expecting the flashes to return - but they did not. "It was.almost 5:30. I was ready and wanted to eat breakfast before we departed, so I ran out the door. Then as soon as I passed through the doorway.my head just started pounding horribly. I remember grabbing my head, and falling over, but not much after that."
The room was dead silent. All three of the Jedi were thinking over the events Raina had explained. But Obi-wan and Anakin could not be fooled. There was something more to her story than she would tell.
"Are you sure that's it?" the inquiry startled Raina. There had been more to it, but how do you explain such things? "It feels like there is something you're not telling me." He had said me.not us as he should have. Anakin was only thinking of himself at the moment, anyone could tell he really cared for Raina.
"We-ell." she sighed, and closed her eyes fearing anything to happen. "Maybe they were visions, I'm not sure. Whatever they were, it was not good." She looked at Obi-wan and he appeared deep in thought. "They were flashes of alarming pictures, but pictures of what, I'm not sure. They scared me, I know that. I just couldn't wake up and they wouldn't stop." A sob escaped her mouth, and her hand shot up to stifle the surprising noise. Never before had she shown such feelings towards anyone. And the first time she did, it just had to be in front of Anakin. Now what is he going to think?
What could possibly make her cry, when she didn't know what she was crying about? The visions had some hold on her, maybe threatening something dear to her. But what could it be?
Shaking her head in disgust, she looked at Obi-wan. "I don't know what's got into me! I can't control myself, and I don't know why." For the first time in a couple minutes Raina realized that Anakin was staring at her. "What are you looking at?" she snapped a little too defensively. Immediately she felt sorry for saying it, but she couldn't break the habit.
"Nothing," He was hurt. "Nothing at all." His cool blue eyes, turned icy and the look on his face didn't look good at all. "Excuse me." Anakin turned and left the room, leaving Raina alone with Obi-wan. ~
She had been discharged from the Medical Wing, and was expected to attend an emergency meeting concerning her apparent 'visions'. Of course, she wasn't sure if it was that important that they need such a meeting, but they were the council and they knew what they were doing. Raina trudged to the Council room, this time alone. Anakin had stormed out of the room because of her, and she felt bad.
After all, she had snapped at him over nothing, but lately, it did seem like something. He had kissed her last night, and she often caught him staring at her when he thought she wasn't aware. But Raina sensed everything. She felt his presence whenever he was near, and always knew when he was looking at her.
It's not that she needed to know exactly what Anakin was up to, actually far from it. She just always sensed him because she couldn't stand him.
Whenever he was near, she felt a shiver on her spine. Not because she was excited, but because he annoyed her. Anakin annoyed her a lot.
Since the first time she laid eyes on Anakin, she disliked him. It was jealousy and the hate she had for him deep down in her heart. Of course she had tried to trick herself into liking Anakin, at least just a bit, but no matter how hard she tried it didn't work. Nothing did, and she wasn't sure if anything would.
Once again, the council headquarters loomed ahead, and once again she wasn't sure what to expect of this visit.
Lately Raina wasn't sure of anything. She had always been in control of everything possible. And since this mission had been assigned to her, she felt useless. She couldn't control her emotions, and had embarrassed herself in front of her master and her enemy.
She had been attacked mentally by an unknown force. Raina had no control over these attacks, and she didn't know when to expect them. She wouldn't close her eyes, for fear of it happening again. And come to think of it, what would happen when she passed through that door to the Council room?
"Raina!" she heard her name, and turned to see Obi-wan. It was a good sign that she wasn't late. "Have you seen Anakin since this morning? I cannot find him, and I don't want him to be late." Uh-oh, now what did Anakin go and do?
"Well, I'm right here." Anakin's voice startled her. He sounded different, there was an edge to his voice, and it wasn't pleasant. "I was meditating Master, but now I am here."
"Good, we wouldn't want you to be late, especially for a meeting such as this." Then, as if on cue Corrine appeared from behind the large doors. "Time for answers," that comment surprised Raina. Now she knew that the Council wasn't telling them everything. If the council was telling everything, the three of them wouldn't be looking for answers.
Raina needed answers; to everything happening that was unexplainable. And at the moment almost everything was mysterious. It was like an unsolved mystery that could only end up bad if they didn't get answers soon.
"The Council is ready for you now." Corrine supplied. She beckoned for them to enter the room, and they accepted the 'offer'.
This visit was much different. The air was filled with concern and confusion; even a youngling could detect that. "How are you feeling Raina?" the question startled her, but it was imperative. For that attack was what this meeting was about, so everybody needed as well of an explanation she could provide. Nobody had said anything, but she knew that in order for the flashes to be explained, she would have to do some explaining herself.
"I'm fine now, but earlier I was in poor health. If it wasn't for Anakin, I'm not sure what could have happened." She had to give him some credit, he did save her, even if the attacks weren't life threatening. Then it hit her. What would have happened if Anakin didn't find her lying there? What then? "There were flashes of pictures, but I cannot remember what they were of. She closed her eyes, trying to remember the feeling, without it actually happening again. "I had spasms of pain on my temples. I remember reaching for my head, trying to make it stop, and then I doubled over in pain." Her eyes snapped open; she was doing a good job remembering, she almost relived the experience. "Then I woke up in my room, unaware of my surroundings. I tried to fight the sleepiness, but I couldn't. It started all over again. I woke up a second time, but this time I was in the Medical Wing."
"Interesting, we are all glad that you are well." She nodded her head in agreement. "Raina, did you ever think that this case is not the only one we've seen?" Mace asked carefully, "There have been a couple I believe, and they did not happen in the best of circumstances either." What was he trying to tell them? That she wasn't the only weird one after all? He sighed, and began "When an attack like this happens it can only mean that something bad is about to come. The person that has these visions has a huge part to play during the.event. And these visions aren't the best pictures either."
"So you're saying that something horrible is about to happen, and it has to do with me?" she couldn't wait for the full explanation, this news was quite frightening.
"Yes." She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "I'm sorry, but there is no way to avoid this now." Her faced dropped, and so did her spirit. "Now, about the mission; there is still the matter of the disappearances on Abhor. Of course we will have to take greater precautions with it, and this just cannot be ignored."
"When will we be departing, Master?" Anakin questioned without warning, it was the first time he had spoken since the meeting had begun.
"As soon as possible, if you are well enough, Raina." It seemed as if everything was revolving around her. She nodded her head in approval. "Then you will leave as soon as you are prepared, we will meet you in the hanger bay." It was settled then.
Obi-wan nodded his head, and they were dismissed. They exited silently, feeling as confused as ever, and without the answers they had come for.
~
What will happen to them as they travel to Abhor, not knowing what to expect? Remember to review so I know where this is going!!!