Chapter Twelve: Getting in Stride
Heart Residence Los Angeles, California June 24, 2000 0600 hours (The Wandererverse)

Qui Gon walked up to the bedroom door and knocked softly. A thud sounded from within the room, followed by muffled curses. The Jedi master winced as he recognized some of the language. He thought, I must have a word with Detective Heart about the language she is teaching him. Taking a deep breath, he yelled. "Anthony, Katie has fixed breakfast and everybody is waiting for you to come downstairs."

Saint moaned, "I'm coming, I'm coming."

Satisfied that his young charge was on his way. Qui Gon rejoined the family in the dining room and waited for Saint to show up.

Katie had just finished setting the table when Saint walked in. Here comes dead man walking, thought the young lady. Saint began stumbling towards the table when suddenly, he began sniffing the air. His eyes became focussed as he rushed into the kitchen murmuring,"coffee."

It took but one gulp of that magical brew to wake up the Jedi in training and he proceeded to fill his plate to the brim. Sitting down, he turned to Katie and asked her. "Now about last night. Is there something you want to tell me about a certain familiar reptile?"

Katie finished off her sausage and innocently replied with another question. "What do you mean?"

"When I crashed the bloodsucker get together back there, I noticed a very large Kommodo Dragon guarding the stairway, surrounded by several piles of dust. The creature had a similar pattern to Godzilla and you were not even phased when you walked within two feet of him."

"Very well, I was gonna spring on you later. But now is as good a time as any. Godzilla is actually a Guardian Spirit. He watches my back and keeps in contact with me telepathically."

Both Qui Gon and Obi Wan listened in on the conversation in interest. Finally the older Jedi rubbed his chin and commented, "Hmm, that would explain how you knew what was happening in the house before you even got there." He closed his eyes for a moment in quiet contemplation as he silently went over the events from the previous night. Suddenly, he opened his eyes. "Katie, would any other member of Section 7 also have one of these Guardian Spirits? When we got back to Sir Steven's house, I noticed that Buffy appeared to be having a silent conversation with what you call. a dog."

Katie nodded her head, "You are right. The Guardian Spirits become linked with their owners and have comparable intelligence."

Saint had been listening and an evil thought went through his head. Ohh, I know I'm gonna get killed but I cannot let this opportunity for a smartass comment slip past. Putting on an innocent look that immediately had everyone on guard, he commented. "Well since most reptiles have a brain, the size of a pea. That would explain some of the things you have done since I met you."

A loud hiss could be heard from the living room as Katie slowly turned her head around. Obi Wan and Qui Gon shared a look that clearly said. Anthony has gone too far with this one. Without a word, the young lady got up, picked up a pitcher of ice water, and poured it down Saint's pants. Then, she slapped him upside the head, hissing, "You had better apologize buddy or what you went through yesterday will seem like a cakewalk. Got that buster?"

Saint, took a towel from Jessica who had been watching the exchange with visible amusement. After taking a few minutes to dry himself off, he offered his heartfelt apology to Katie and Godzilla. The angry hiss in the other room drifted off as if the Guardian Spirit accepted the apology and went off to do other things.

Qui Gon only shook his head at the spectacle. I had to take on another pupil. He allowed his student to dry off before getting up and directing him to come to the back yard for that days lesson in cleansing the dark side from his inner being. Obi Wan and Anakin began moving towards the indoor gym for their lesson.

+++

St. Wolf Residence Same timeframe

Tara and Amy were talking about the Jedi when the doorbell rang again. Both girls got up to answer the door to reveal young men and a young lady.

"Lord Dharinel, Welcome. Would you like something to drink?"

Dharinel raised his hand, "That is unnecessary, we are not thirsty but thank you anyway Amy. Allow me to introduce my companions." Gesturing to the couple beside him, he introduced. "To my right is my cousin Lord Ringeristion and his wife Lady Vinyaernilwen. Tobabaird called me up last night and mentioned something about a young child who would like to be fostered by the elves."

"That is correct, her father was a soldier, killed in action while on a rescue mission to Africa. Her mother was murdered last night by a boyfriend turned vampire. She has no living relatives and nowhere to turn."

"Be that as it may. Usually, such children are placed with the local childcare agencies. What makes this case any different?"

"Susan, that's her name, has problems with being around humans of any sort at this time. Shaw needed to fully reveal her elven heritage before the girl calmed down. She's been through a lot, with her father being killed. And, now her mother is drained by a vamp in front of her very eyes. The girl's a big fan of Tolkien. In fact her bedroom was covered in Middle Earth memorabilia, particularly anything dealing with elves. We thought it would be better if she could stay with you guys."

Lady Vinyaernilwen, a blond haired, green eye, tall elf, coughed to get the others attention. "My Lord, perhaps it would be better to continue this conversation with the others present." She returned her attention to the two young ladies. "When Lord Dharinel told us about this child's situation. Well, nothing could keep us from coming. You see, my husband and I are unable to have children and were thinking about adoption."

Amy nodded, "Then let's get this show on the road."

+++

The three elves followed Amy and Tara into the training room. There they found Susan talking with Dawn, Debbie, Brian, Kait, Angelique, Carson, Anna, Lizzie, and Shaw, while petting a dire wolf and a saber tooth tiger laying next to her and enjoying the attention.

While the others stood up, the half-eleven priestess walked up and greeted the visitors. Following the greeting she turned to introduce the elves to the others.

"Beside me is Lord Dharinel, lord of Elfhame Misthold. The gentleman to his right is his cousin Lord Ringeristion. Finally, the lady standing next to Lord Ringeristion is his wife Lady Vinyaernilwen. They have answered my request for aid in deciding on how best to handle Susan's situation."

Vinyaernilwen smiled and walked over to Susan and knelt beside her. As the child looked on, the elf ended her glamour and smiled, "You must be Susan." The little girl nodded her head as the elf pointed toward Dharinel and Ringeristion. "We've heard a lot about you. In fact, when Lady Shaw told us about your interest in all things elvish, we had to come see you."

Ringeristion smiled and turned around and asked the others. "Would it be possible to interview the child alone?""

Amy nodded, "Susan, why don't you take Duke, Kait, Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen up to your room and tell them what you told the rest of us."

Dharinel smiled and said "That is a good idea and meanwhile we can talk about a few other things."

Amy agreed and suggested that they wait in the living room for the interview to finish.

+++

The group filled into the living room, and Tara, Amy and Shaw got some refreshments. Brian had held back as the others sat down. The elf lord noticed the young man looking at him.

"Is there something you wanted to know?" asked Dharinel.

"As a matter of fact there is. What is going on up there?"

"Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen are examining the child to see if bringing her into the elven community is the best for young Susan. Young man, we are all after the same goal, to see that Susan is taken care of. Why are you so concerned with the child?"

Brian took a deep breath and explained, "I've lost my parents to Vampires two years ago. Susan's father died in the line of duty two weeks ago in this reality. She lost her mother yesterday to her abusive stepfather turned vampire I've still had my older sister, and Steve was there for us from the beginning. Some of us were not so fortunate, and were alone, like Susan is now. One of our friends, her fathers CO, promised to take care of Susan on his deathbed. We simply want to be sure that there'll be some place for her."

Dharinel gave the young man a reassuring smile and said "You have already done that by contacting us. My cousin and his wife have been longing to have a child in their home for many years. I promise you this. Should it be decided to bring Susan into the community, love and guidance will surround her. But you understand that she has to deal with her problems. Ignoring and suppressing the problems won't help her."

Brian nodded, but Kait answered, "We know that. That's why we were talking about it with Susan. But for the moment she isn't comfortable around humans without visible supernatural beings around. It would be impossible for her to function in a human society for some time to come."

"And if we wouldn't take her?"

"Mom would take her in," Dawn replied.

+++ "Susan, slow down. Children shouldn't run in the house. Especially in someone else's." Chided Vinyaernilwen.

Like many an excited child before her, Susan didn't hear the command to slow down. Instead, she raced down the stairs, into the living room and up to the couch where Brian, Kait and Dawn were sitting. Without a pause, she began telling the good news to everyone in the room. While the elven visitors had no chance in catching the talk, the others had enough experience with Willow-babble to get most of what was said. "Lady Vinyaernilwen said I can come live with them after all. I'm gonna live with the elves!" Dharinel's cousins walked in as the others let Susan know they were happy for her. Ringeristion and his wife stood behind Susan, confirming that they considered Susan to already be a member of their family and would formally adopt her in a fostering ceremony, to be held in two days. Dharinel leaned over to his cousin and whispered something. Ringeristion did the same to his wife who looked him in the eyes and nodded.

"If you want, Susan can stay here until final preparations are made. Steve'd tell you himself, if he'd finally get up, but he gave his okay yesterday," Amy told the visitors

Vinyaernilwen thanked her, and turned the others, "Lord Dharinel has informed us of the promise to Susan's birth parent and your concerns. To set your mind at ease and at the request of our daughter to be, I would like to invite you and your companions to the fostering ceremony."

Amy thanked her and made it clear that she and many of their friends would be there.

Susan asked. "What does this ceremony entail?"

"Elf children are few and the introduction of a child into our society by birth or adoption is a call for great celebration. Upon the birth or as in this case, adoption, the entire village turns out to celebrate with the children's parents. These are joyous occasions for all and typically last several days and conclude with the naming of the child. In the case of fostering from outside the community, a new name is bestowed on the child."

Vinyaernilwen picked up "Children are given a private name by their parents and then a public name. The secret name is known only to the elf, his or her parents, and the priest presiding over the ceremony." Dharinel continued the explanation of the ceremony " Gifts and wishes are often bestowed upon the child by family and close friends. Such presents have a lasting impression, for favors given to a child are far from ordinary. . "

Amy nodded, "We'll be happy to attend this ceremony. Is there anything else we should know about?"

"Only that you should dress semi casual. No need to turn up in full plate armor." Added Ringeristion.

Susan suddenly remembered her other rescuers from the night before and added. "Don't forget Mister Christopher and Miss Heart."

"That would be the same Lieutenant Christopher, who commanded Susan's father?" asked Vinyaernilwen.

"Yes and Katie was with him last night. Then there is Mister Quigby and his two sons. They were also with Sgt. McCoy when he was killed." Supplied Shaw.

"Very well, they too shall be invited." Decided Ringeristion. "As the person closest to Susan's family, Lieutenant Christopher has an important part to play in the ceremony. The ceremony will be held in two weeks. Lady Shawukay, would you contact the Lieutenant and the others and help them be ready for their roles in the ceremony?"

"I would be honored to do so." Replied Shaw.

Vinyaernilwen knelt beside Susan, giving her a part embrace. "We need to go and get ready for the ceremony. We look forward to welcoming you into our home."

+++

Outside the Galactic Senate Planet Coruscant Star Wars Universe 31 BSW (Star Wars Universe)

Night had fallen over the city-covered planet, hiding the presence of two black robed figures. They had exited the senate from one of the private exits, available to members of the government. The two figures moved slowly along the walkway, discussing their plans for taking control. Finally, they stopped as a steady stream of speeders whisked by at high speeds. The shorter one, paused and motioned for his companion to stop. In a gravelly voice, he asked. "How went your mission to Kamino?"

"Better than could be expected, my master. I used the name of the recently deceased Master Kuze to place the order. The cloners claim they will have the order ready when we need it." Replied the young man.

"Good, good. However, we have to be careful. The Jedi Council suspect something is about to happen and are keeping my public persona under close scrutiny. Blast, that arrogant whelp from Earth. Thanks to Christopher's meddling, I've had to move back my plans to take over the galaxy." Cursed Darth Siddious.

Darth Agonius looked at his master in surprise and countered, "But master, Christopher is back in that alternate universe where he came from along with one of our most dangerous enemies, Qui Gon Jinn. They cannot have any effect on our future plans from where they are."

The dark lord held up a hand to stop his subordinate's protest, "Normally, I would agree. However, I have been getting visions in the Force. In one version, we are victorious and my glorious empire replaces this rotten shell of a Republic. The other variation has this 'Saint' returning with a large army just as our plans are coming to fruition and defeating us once and for all. No, I will not allow the second vision to come true. 'Saint' will have to be destroyed before he becomes a bigger threat."

"But master, how will you eliminate him?" asked Agonius. "He is not even in the same universe."

Siddious patted his apprentice on his hand, "Do not worry yourself with that. I am already searching for a means to track down this 'boyscout'. When I find where he is hiding, I'll have you go there and take care of the threat once and for all."

The younger Sith nodded and asked, "Within the short time spent in this universe, he has shown an ability to acquire many friends. What shall I do with them when I find him?"

A beam of light from a passing speeder illuminated the wrinkled features of Sith Master, prematurly aged from his use of the Dark side of the Force. With a hissing voice, he concluded. "Wipe them out. All of them."

+++

Heart Residence Los Angeles, California June 25, 2000 0800 hours (The Wandererverse)

Katie had just finished setting the table for breakfast when Qui Gon and Obi Wan walked in from the back. The Jedi master sat down at the table and turned to the young Amazon, asking. "Where is Anthony? I noticed that he was not in his room this morning."

"He had some things to take care of at the college. Something about meeting his academic advisor and finding out what he needed to be ready when the fall semester starts." Replied Katie.

Qui Gon nodded and poured some syrup on his pancakes. He felt that the young lady wanted to ask him something so he observed, "There was something else you wanted to ask about?"

"No, yes. Well, I was wondering how long you plan on being in our little spot in the universe? I mean, Anthony has gotten hooked up with friends and kept his promise to Sgt. McCoy. He even survived his encounter with the Dark Side."

The older Jedi put down his fork and closed his eyes for a moment. Taking a few moments to collect his thoughts, he replied, "I was thinking that very thought a few days ago and decided to see what I could find out through the Force. It is my belief that the Force brought Obi Wan, Anakin, and myself here for a purpose and that purpose has yet to be fulfilled. Even though Anthony has passed that test by facing the darkside and coming back, I sense that it is but one of many that he will face. From that first meeting on Naboo, I have been certain that Anthony will play a major role in defeating the darkness that threatens both my home universe." He got up and looked out the window, "Yet, he also has a role to play here in his home planet. I have seen that he is destined to complete his Jedi training here on Earth. For that reason, Obi Wan and myself have accompanied him to this planet. It is during this period of learning, here, that Anthony will make many of the allies who will play major roles in the upcoming fight against the darkness both in the Republic, and even here."

"What Master Jinn is trying to say is that the Force intends for us to be on Earth for the foreseeable future." Added Obi Wan. "Besides, we have no intention of allowing Anthony face these trials on his own."

"That explains a lot." Agreed Katie. The sound of the doorbell caught her attention and she got up to answer the door. Alex had previously asked Katie if she would like to go to the beach with him. She had agreed and had been waiting for her boyfriend to show up. He wrapped his arms around her and planted a lingering kiss on her lips. A moment later, the two broke apart and Alex asked.

"Hey Katie, Ready to go?"

Katie smiled, "You bet. Get the car started and I'll be out in a second."

Katie returned to the dining room to pick up her beach bag while Alex was starting up the car. On her way out, she turned to face the older Jedi. "If my mom calls, tell her I'm at the beach."

Qui Gon quickly assured her that they would do as she requested and told her to have a good time at the beach.

+++

Obi Wan was busy washing the dishes when the doorbell rang yet again. Hmm, we seem to be getting our fair share of visitors today. Putting away the last plate in the dishwasher, the Jedi walked to the door. This time Katie's best friend, Jessica, was waiting on the doorstep. He immediately noticed that the teenager appeared to be somewhat nervous and had not taken off her dark glasses.

In an attempt to put her at ease, he smiled and asked, "Jessica, it's a pleasure seeing you again. What brings you over here?"

The young lady replied, "Uh, I was looking for Katie. Is she here?"

Qui Gon called out from the dining room, "Ben, why don't you invite the young lady inside?"

Using his cover, the younger Jedi replied, "Yes father." He turned back to Jessica and said "Where are my manners. Would you please come in?"

With a nervous look, the girl tried to refuse. Obi Wan noticed her skittishness and felt out through the Force. The girl is definitely in pain but I sense an inner turmoil. I need to act. With a soothing tone, he asked, "You appear to be in pain. Is there anything I can do?"

Jessica looked up in surprise. She took off her glasses and replied, "Oh, if you are referring to the shiner. I just had an accident. Fell down the stairs. I guess I'm still a little shaken up."

Qui Gon had walked up as she removed her sun glasses. He offered, "Why don't you come in. I just made a pot of tea. There's nothing like a soothing cup of hot tea to sooth the nerves."

"I guess, I can spare the time for a glass of tea."

Qui Gon smiled and led Jessica in, "It's always good to have a fresh face for tea."

Obi Wan shut the door and followed the two back in. While Jessica was getting settled in, the young man joined his former teacher in the kitchen to get some cups. Qui Gon was retrieving the tea bags when the younger Jedi walked over and whispered, "Master, I sense that something has happened too. It feels like she is attempting to hide the source of her pain."

Qui Gon nodded, "Your feelings do you justice. I too feel the conflict within the young lady but she wishes to keep it private. Do not fear, when she is ready, she will let us help her. We just need to make it know that is she needs someone, we will be there to help." "Oh course master. But for now, lets get some of that tea."

+++

Elfhame Fairgrove Los Angeles, California July 15, 2000 1700 hours (The Wandererverse)

"Tell me again why am I wearing this getup?"

"Because you look good in it and you fit right in with Qui Gon and Obi Wan" answered Katie.

"Now why did you talk Master Jinn and Obi Wan into wearing Jedi robes? You know how we are trying to get them inconspicuous as possible. For the last three weeks, we have been getting them to dress and act like normal Earth people or as normal Irish and Scotsmen can be. Now you make them, not to mention me, the target of every sci-fi nutcase within line of sight." Moaned Saint.

"Anthony, don't be such a worry wort. You are beginning to sound like Obi Wan with his 'I have a bad feeling about this' act." The young Amazon ignored the indigent "Hey!!" yelled out by said Jedi. "It's dark outside, which will limit the amount of attention. Then, the Elfhame is magically shielded from unwanted visitors. Finally, Lord Dharinel and his people helped out Steve during the 'Wish' incident, so they are used to the unusual being associated with the Wanderer. So don't worry." She ended with a sigh.

JD peered through the rear view mirror. "Listen to Katie. We are going to an adoption ceremony where a human child is brought into an Elvish family from Earth. Said ceremony is presided over by a half-elven priestess of Mielikki. What are a trio of Jedi knights compared to that?"

"Point" conceded Saint.

"Exactly how will this ceremony be carried out?" asked Obi Wan from the rear passenger seat.

Katie turned back to answer the Jedi's question. "When I talked to Shaw this afternoon when she came by to pick up Qui Gon, she said that it would be held in the Elfhame and will include lots of dancing and music. You can also be sure that there will be a lot of magic involved."

Obi Wan nodded. "Thank you. But I found it unusual that Lord Dharinel would want to talk to Master Jinn prior to the meeting."

Katie laughed, placing emphasis on the young Jedi's name. "Obi Wan, even the elves on this world are familiar with popular movies. Lord Dharinel probably just wanted to compare notes with our esteemed Jedi master and see how much of the movie was fact versus fiction."

"Of course, Master Jinn will also be interested in learning as much as possible about the elves in return." Responded the young Jedi.

Saint looked out the window, deep in thought for the rest of the trip. I wonder how this ceremony differs from the ones described in the Forgotten Realms sourcebook? We'll soon find out as soon as we get there. His reminiscing was interrupted by the stopping of the car and JD yelling out "we're here!"

+++

Lord Dharinel had been interested in meeting with the Jedi since learning of their arrival while meeting with St. Wolf. Since the adoption ceremony required a few hours to get everything set up, the lord of Elfhame Fairgrove had requested that Qui Gon accompany Shaw when she came by to get ready. The Jedi master and Elf lord stood off to the side as the final preparations were put in place.

"Your elfsteeds are fascinating creatures. I have never met anything that could change from a living creature to a machine in all my travels." Observed Qui Gon.

Dharinel accepted the complement. "Thank you Master Jinn, they are indeed fascinating creatures. So how did your ride with Lady Shawukay compare to those of your home?"

Qui Gon pursed his lips, "It reminded me of the times I rode on a speeder bike. Her steed in automobile form is almost as fast as a speeder. It was certainly faster than your lower tech automobiles."

Dharinel was about to respond when a car drove up. "It appears that the rest of our guests have arrived. So we shall begin shortly."

+++

The ceremony was held in a large clearing surrounded by ancient trees that had been carefully shielded from mankind by elven magic. For the ceremony, a large bonfire was lit in the middle of the clearing. Magical balls of light bathed the clearing with soft light.

The adoption ceremony proceeded in stages. The first part of the ceremony involved the person representing the child's natural family would bring the child to the priestess. Then the adopting family would come up. Following a series of prayers, the child would be presented to her new family upon which she is given her elven name and is considered part of her new family. This is then followed by the showering of gifts from the new family and close friends. Finally, three days of celebration follows.

Showtime. thought the half-elven priestess of Melikki. She looked over the gathered crowd and raised both hands. Musicians, who had been playing a variety of Elven tunes, stopped and put down their instruments.

With a strong voice, Shaw began the ceremony. "Greetings elves and elf- friends. We gather here tonight to celebrate the arrival of a new addition to the family of Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen. A child is precious no matter how that child comes into the family whether by birth or adoption. Either way, this is a cause for joy. In the cases where the child comes into the family through adoption, it is customary for a representative of the birth family to lead the child to the new family." She turned to her left where Saint, Qui Gon, Obi Wan, JD, Steve, and Katie stood beside Susan. Even though, Dharinel said casual dress was appropriate, I must say that Jedi robes are right for Anthony, Qui Gon, and Obi Wan. "Who escorts this child into her new family?"

Saint had been standing next to Susan with his hand on her shoulder. Katie stood to her other side. Saint gave Susan a warm smile and looked back to Shaw saying, "I, Anthony Christopher, son of William and Mary, student of JD Heart and Qui Gon Jinn, and friend of Jack do so."

Shaw returned the smile, replying, "Then come forth, Anthony son of William and Mary with Susan."

She waited for Saint to bring Susan in front of her before she turned to her right. "Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen come forth and accept the child from her old life." The two elves joined Saint, Susan, and Shaw at the alter. Taking on a solemn look, the priestess asked, "Do you, Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen take this child into your home to love and cherish. To teach her to walk in the light and be part of Fairgrove?"

Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen shared smiles and turned to Shaw, "We do, with all our heart."

"Then Susan, daughter of Jack McCoy, go stand with your new mother and father."

His part done, Saint watched as Susan approached and was embraced by her new family. I've kept my promise old friend. I only wish you were here to see it in person. thought the young man.

Shaw waited a moment before continuing, "As it is customary to give the child a new name to go with her new life. Lord Ringeristion, what name have you for this child, new to Elfhame Fairgrove?"

With his left arm wrapped protectively around his new daughter, he responded. "My wife and myself have chosen Galadriël Arcamenel for our new daughter."

Shaw looked at Susan with a big smile, "Then, I bid you welcome Galadriël Arcamenel, daughter of Lord Ringeristion and Lady Vinyaernilwen into your new home. And this concludes the adoption please enjoy the reception following the ceremony." With this, the Elfhame gained a new daughter and the party began.

While the other guests danced and ate, the new family and close friends turned to give gifts to Susan, now named Galadriël. Katie and the Jedi followed the party into an area that had been shielded from the rest of the party by a wall of illusions.

Once everybody had assembled, Lord Ringeristion announced, "As the father, it is my duty, but mostly pleasure, to start the gift giving." He gave his daughter a fatherly smile and cast a spell over her. "My dear daughter, I give you ability to talk to dragons. It won't be long before you will have many more wonderful friends."

Galadriël's eyes began to tear up and she wrapped her arms around Ringerstion. "Thank you father. I will always treasure this gift."

Lady Vinyaernilwe was next. She knelt down to look Galadriël in the eyes. "You do not know how long I have yearned for a daughter. So this gift also comes from my heart. To my flower, my beloved daughter, I give you the ability to ride as an elf."

Katie turned to her mother and both nodded, it was time. She reached into her backpack and pulled out what appeared to be a lizard similar to her guardian spirit, which immediately jumped into Galadriël's arms. "I was trying to find the perfect gift when I remembered how much you cared for Godzilla. This little fellow needed a home and I knew you would be perfect for each other. He is a guardian spirit just like Godzilla and will watch over you the rest of your days." She pulled out a sheet of parchment. "On this paper, is the spell which will link you and her. Just give the word."

Galadriël looked to her new mother and father who both nodded yes. Once the spell was completed, she felt a presence in her mind. Hello Galadriël. We are going to be such good friends.

The young girl blinked and "You are just like Godzilla." To which the guardian spirit nodded. "But we need a name for you as well." She looked to her mother and asked, "Mother what is the elvish form of Tyrannosaur?"

Vinyaernilwe smiled and shook her head. "That, my young one would be "

Galadriël turned back and asked the lizard. "What do you think about ?" To which the guardian spirit snuggled in her arms.

Finally, it was Anthony's turn. He looked first to the new parents then back at Galadriël. "When I was on my last combat mission, I promised your father I would see that you were taken care of. I do not have the ability to cast spells or can give guardian spirits so this gift I give you comes from my heart. You will always be under my protection no matter what. At the time of your greatest need, just give me a call and I will move heaven and Earth to save you. As far as you future is concerned, I give you this money in a sealed account to be accessed when you turn twenty-one or start college." The girl gave him a brief hug in thanks.

Once the gifts had been handed out, Ringeristion called for everyone's attention and said. "It is late and Galadriël needs to get some sleep. But feel free to enjoy the festivities in our absence."

Saint turned and looked at Katie before replying "I'm sure we will. I'm sure we will."

+++

Katie was standing near the refreshment table, talking to Shaw. They were deep in a discussion going over that night's events when Saint joined them. They shared a look and offered the young man a drink.

Saint was sitting back, enjoying the music when he noticed Shaw and Katie huddled together and looking his way every so often. Okay, now what are those two up to? I know I'm going to regret this but I had better go over and find out. While walking over to the refreshment area, he spotted Obi Wan, JD, and Steve Sloan were also looking his way and wearing sly grins. His sense of apprehension increased accordingly, Now, I know I'm being set up. The question is how and when. I'd better keep on my toes if I hope to some out of this in one piece. Katie, picked up her drink and moved up to Anthony.

"Anthony, it's nice of you to join us. Shaw and I were talking about the quality of the illusions used to disguise the ceremony."

Shaw smiled and commented, "You look like a man with a thirst." She handed the Jedi in training a glass filled with a bright red liquid. "Here, try this."

Saint accepted the drink and looked first to the soul sister and then to the Amazon. This drink is definitely spiked. This is a good time to put my latest lesson to good use. He asked Shaw, "And just what is in this drink?"

"Oh nothing special, just berries, flowers, all combined with sun+moonlight. It is a drink unique to Elvish culture, called Elverquisst and has a refreshing taste."

Saint's danger sense went up a notch as he watched Katie's reaction to the explanation. I am definitely using that new Jedi trick. With my luck, this is one of the most potent drinks ever distilled. He quickly passed his hand over the drink and used the Force to eliminate any alcohol content. With a single drink, the glass was emptied. Taking a napkin to wipe off his mouth, the young man commented, "You were right. That is one of the most refreshing drinks I have had in a long time."

Katie gave him a questioning stare, "Anthony, don't you feel any different?"

Her question was answered with a shrug. "Not really. Then again, one of my more recent lessons with Master Jinn involved using the Force to eliminate poisons from food or drink." Explained Saint.

Shaw immediately caught the implication and observed, "Since alcohol is often considered a poison."

"I used my newly acquired knowledge to make this drink safe and totally non- alcoholic. When I saw you two having a conversation and constantly looking back at me, I got concerned. Now, maybe Obi Wan has been rubbing off with his 'I have a bad feeling' saying, but you guys were kinda obvious about being up to no good. Besides, our spectator crowd over there also clued me in that something was up." Added Saint.

"Aww spoilsport." Chided Katie. To which Shaw responded, "As Faith would say, It appears Grasshopper is learning."

+++

Dharinel and Qui Gon observed from the shadows. Once the happening had begun to die down the two turned back to their discussion.

"Master Jinn, I have been getting a feeling that some great evil is approaching." Commented the elf lord.

Qui Gon nodded and sighed, "I agree. I have been peering into the Force and I see a great evil is on it's way and the forces of good on this planet must be prepared."

"How much time do you think we have?"

"I do not have an exact timeline. There are many currents in the Force and I see two outcomes. One has both this world and my home galaxy falling to the darkness. The other path leads to victory and the continued freedom for all. As one of the Earth philosophers once said, "We are living in interesting times."

"However, tonight is a time for celebration lets rejoin your friends and party. We can leave the oncoming darkness for tomorrow."

Qui Gon agreed and the two moved off to rejoin the party.
The End (For Now)
Author's Note: Thus concludes the second installment of Enter the Stalkers. While reading some of the emails at Karroll.com, I noticed one reader bemoaned the lack of a big villain. Hopefully, the upcoming visit of the Sith apprentice and meddling by Palpatine will fulfill that request. The next story, "Rainbow Slayer" will continue chronicling the Jedi stay on Earth and Saint's continued training to become a Jedi. Expect to see a rise of terrorists attacks throughout the world, the appearance of Rainbow, and a Sith Dark Lord joining forces with Satan Section. In any case there will be lots of action in the next story.

On a side note, I recently received a flaming email complaining that the characters of Saint and his helicopter crew were thinly disguised copies of Michael Durant and the crew of the original Super 6-4, a Blackhawk that was shot down in 1993 and ended with the capture of the pilot and the death of his crew plus the two Delta snipers who protected the injured pilot until they too were killed in the action. This was followed by a demand that the fanfic be pulled. To set the matter straight, Saint is a composite character based on a number of historical figures including Warrant Officer Wolcott (Who was killed in the same fight), and a number of Vietnam era scout pilots such as. Lt. Larry Brown (A scout pilot with the 1/9th Cavalry, 1st Air Cav Division and known as the 'Super Scout'), David Bray (He also flew Scouts with the 1/9th Cav), and other teenage pilots, thrown into flying lightly armed OH-13 and OH-6A helicopters at low altitude, flushing out any hidden NVA or Viet Cong. By the same token, Raymond Winslett, Saint's co-pilot, is loosely based on a Earl Beegle, who was with Explosive Ordinance Disposal in the Army and later trained as a naval aviator and served as a flight control officer on a frigate.

In any case, the story in no way attempts to denigrate the efforts and accomplishments of the men in uniform and for the record, The operation in Somalia was a defeat only to the camera. An outnumbered American force took 100 casualties, achieved their objective, and walked out with their comrades. Meanwhile the opposing militia took over 1000 casualties. That is an American victory in any case. If you wish to find out more about what really happened in that Operation, read "Blackhawk Down" and listen to the participants tell their story on the History Channel Special. Likewise, check out 'Headhunters' by Matthew Brennan to find out more about the men of the 9th Cavalry during Vietnam. The American soldiers involved in both Vietnam and Somalia and the upcoming conflict with Iraq are truly heroes and should never be forgotten.

That said. This story is a work of fiction. If you have problems with parts of it, let me know with suggestions on how to correct them. But to the writer of the flaming email, if you want to bring someone over to your point of view it is a lot easier to do so through a civil conversation and offering ways to address your concerns. A flaming email filled with accusations and demands will only make the target of your ire become more likely to either ignore or reply in kind. Lets keep the discussions civil, shall we?

Finally, to the former members of the armed forces who sent words of support and encouragement, I am extremely grateful and give my heartfelt thanks.