Stars in the Darkness - Chapter Twelve
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_HoloNet News: The Information Source for the Galactic Republic - Afternoon Edition Broadcast Feed_
_VIRGILLIAN NODE_ - Although reports are scattered due to a communications blackout, civil war has broken out in the Virgillian system between the Virgillian Free Alignment and the Aristocracy. As this is a developing story, updates will be broadcast as they are received.
_KANA CITY, KANA_ - Noted author Marc Ti died peacefully in his sleep in his mountain estate on Kana at the age of 141. He was famous for his book, _Handbook to a Successful Marriage_, which has sold over 1 trillion copies galaxy-wide and been translated into 5,000 languages and sub-languages since it was published a hundred years ago. Admired for his ability to address all types of marriages involving all kinds of species Ti, though never married himself, decided to write the handbook after observing the failure of the marriages of many of his friends.
_CLOUD CITY, BESPIN_ - An explosion in a Tibanna gas mine killed two workers and injured dozens of others. Authorities were quick to assure the populace this was not the work of terrorists. For the past several weeks, a group known as the People's United Front has demanded that the managers of Cloud City provide adequate medical protection for its workers. Citing the rising cost of such protection, the managers refused. Jeree Ya-Teel, leader of PUF, blamed the explosion on cutbacks in the Republic's Health and Safety Inspection Department. "They're supposed to keep an eye on things. We used to have two inspectors come out every three months. Now, it's one every six months. Keep this up and, trust me, more people are going to die."
_RAXUS PRIME_ - Count Dooku of Serenno, formerly a member of the Jedi Order, in a speech broadcasted on a pirated channel of the HoloNet, blasted both the Republic and the Jedi Order, accusing them of being hopelessly corrupt and out of touch with the people they're supposed to protect. Calling upon all who still believed in justice and freedom to rally around his cause, Dooku promised he would not rest until a new day dawned in the galaxy, where all beings, no matter their species, gender or non-gender, religious affiliation or socio-economic status, reaped the full benefits of citizenship.
_SPECIAL EDITION OF SIGHTINGS BY TAWNG_
_IMAGE OF BLUE-SKIINED TWI'LEK FEMALE_
Greetings, gentle beings. I'm Zenna Efeyni. We're bringing you a special edition of _Sightings by Twang_ to make two announcements. First, Dyslogia Twang is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the HolotNet News. He will be returning to his homeworld of Gira and has no plans in the immediate future to return to broadcasting. Second, before he left Coruscant, Twang recorded the following message:
_IMAGE OF TWANG IN PALE GRAY ROBE GAZING SOMBERLY AT CAMERA_
I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to Senator Onara Lenor and Master Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi for statements I made regarding them. I also offer my apology to the Galactic Senate and the Jedi Order, and I hereby retract any statements made involving all concerned. My statements were not based on fact, but on conjecture and speculation, and any harm or injury I might have caused Senator Lenor, Master Kenobi or anyone associated with them, I now offer my apology.
_IMAGE OF ZENNA EFEYNI SMILING WIDELY_
Thank you, Twang. Let's all wish him much happiness in his new life and our hopes he'll be returning soon. An announcement will be made shortly as to what will replace _Sightings by Twang_. Ta ta and much happiness!
_Broadcast Feed Terminated_
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Obi-Wan walked slowly alongside Yoda who was seated in a floating chair. This allowed the Jedi Master to converse with the younger Jedi at face level, which Obi-Wan much appreciated since it helped to prevent cricks in his neck from having to look down at the diminutive Jedi. The two were walking in the spacious corridor located near the entrance to the Jedi Temple.
Other Jedi--masters, knights, initiates, padawans, and couriers--and the occasional droid, went about their business, but neither Yoda or Obi-Wan took note of them or of their surroundings. Deep in conversation, they also did not notice the sidelong glances they received when others walked pass.
"Punishment it is not."
"If you say so, Master."
"Preventive measure you should think of it as."
Obi-Wan's expression twisted. "Preventive?" He laughed sharply. "It sounds more like banishment since the Council's decision was that I'm to leave Coruscant immediately and return to the field."
"Banishment it is not. But, yes, preventive it is."
"In what way, Master?"
"Afraid the Council is."
"Afraid? Afraid of what?"
Yoda stopped the movement of his chair, forcing Obi-Wan to stop also. The Jedi Master looked over, his leaf-green eyes somber.
"Of losing you, that is what they fear."
Obi-Wan shook his head. "I thought I made it quite clear I will not leave the Jedi Order. That I will remain true to the commitment I've made. Doesn't the Council believe me?"
"Believe you they do, but..." Yoda stopped, tilting his head, his long pointed ears twitching.
Obi-Wan took in and released a deep breath. He had to admit it irritated him to no end when Yoda got into these moods whereby he would draw out the conversation by only offering information piece-meal.
"But what, Master?" he pressed, pitching his voice to let Yoda know he wasn't in the mood to play this particular game today.
"Of the members of the Council, how many are human?" Yoda suddenly asked.
Startled by the question, Obi-Wan stared at him for a moment. "Three," he answered. "Masters Billaba, Gallia and Windu."
Yoda nodded. "Agree do you the concept of taking a mate and raising children is nearly universal in all sentient species?"
"It would appear so," Obi-Wan said cautiously, not sure where Yoda was taking the conversation.
"And yet, out all of the species in the galaxy only a few, humans in particular, so much of their energy devote to it."
"I can't say one way or the other having never done research on the matter."
Yoda grunted, adjusting his robe about him as he started up the floating chair, Obi-Wan once again walking alongside him.
"Research I have done on it."
Obi-Wan arched an eyebrow. "Really?"
"The devotion of humans to their mates and their offspring," Yoda stated, ignoring the pointed look Obi-Wan gave him, "and the amount of time and resources they devote to their protection and care that of most species outstrips."
"Master Yoda, this is all very fascinating, but I don't see---"
"Did not your own words in the Council Chamber hear, Master Obi-Wan?"
Now it was Obi-Wan's turn to stop and Yoda's to wait for him. "My words?"
Yoda moved his floating chair closer until he was just in front of Obi-Wan.
"If universe," he said quietly and slowly, "cold, dark and lifeless were to around you become, and Onara and your child were all that remained, joy you would still know unbounded." The corner of Yoda's wide mouth quirked up. "No mention of Jedi Order was there in your statement."
Obi-Wan stared open-mouthed at Yoda. Then he quickly recovered himself.
"But...surely the Council knew what I meant. Right after I said that I assured them my loyalties still lie and always would with the Order."
Yoda shook his head, as if he were listening to a young child trying to convince him he had not told a lie.
"Master Obi-Wan," he chided gently. He pointed to Obi-Wan's forehead. "Those words from your head you spoke." He moved his knobby finger down to Obi-Wan's chest. "The others from your heart came. And it was those words of the heart, with such passion and such conviction spoken, that made the Council afraid. Especially Master Oppo. Believe it or not, much admires you he does."
Obi-Wan did not respond, finding that hard to believe. Yoda, noting his expression, laughed.
"True it is. Need you the Order does. Now more than ever. Of this Master Oppo is much aware. Therefore, afraid he is that leave the Order you will to be with your child and the woman who bore him. And this fear his words sharpen."
A sudden, jagged pain twisted through Obi-Wan's heart. Blasted, he thought, how many times did he have to say it and, therefore, relive it. Onara and Ben were not his to be with and never would be. Then he was shocked by Yoda's next words.
"So certain are you?" the Jedi Master asked as if he'd been reading Obi- Wan's mind.
"Master Yoda," Obi-Wan said firmly, ignoring Yoda's question. "I don't know what more I can say to you or to the Council. I will not abandon the Order. I will finish Anakin's training as I promised my master, and I will remain completely loyal and, if need be, give my life to the Jedi and to the Republic."
Yoda folded his hands neatly in his lap as he floated in front of Obi-Wan.
"This I believe, Obi-Wan. This the Council believes, too."
"But they're still sending me away from Coruscant," he said, a tinge of bitterness in his voice.
"Yes," Yoda said simply.
"Even in light of Twang's apology and retraction of his statements regarding myself and Onara?"
Yoda nodded.
Obi-Wan straightened his shoulders, his chin lifted. "Then I shall do as the Council orders. But, I don't see why Anakin has to share in this," and his voice twisted around the word, "_preventive_ measure. He's been longing to return to Coruscant. I would like for him to remain here."
"If remain here he wishes, stay he can. Much he can learn here too."
"Thank you, Master," Obi-Wan said. "When must I leave?"
"In two days. Assignment we have for you."
Obi-Wan bowed deeply but, as he turned to leave, Yoda called after him.
"Ben, how does he?"
Obi-Wan stopped, both pain and delight bursting in his heart.
"He does well, Master. Sinja-Bau is training him, and Onara says he's the brightest two-year old..."
Obi-Wan stopped, surprised his throat seemed to have closed up. He cleared it quickly, folding his arms into the sleeves of his robe and holding them tight against his chest.
"Onara has told him about me," he went on, willing his voice to remain steady. "Not as his father, of course. Just stories. He...he drew a picture of me as a gift. He much admires the Jedi."
Yoda nodded. "One day this picture I would like to see. The mind of a child is always a wondrous place to visit."
Obi-Wan smiled. "Yes, it is."
"Come to Coruscant will he?"
"Yes. When Senator Lenor has settled in a bit more."
"When come he does, visit to the Temple I will arrange for him. Like it will he?"
Obi-Wan smiled widely. "Oh, yes, very much so, Master."
"Then arrange it I will."
"Thank you, Master," Obi-Wan said, bowing deeply.
Yoda inclined his head, dismissing him. As he watched the young Jedi stride away, his dark brown robe sweeping behind him, his boots ringing on the floor, he thought of the day, nearly three years ago, when Obi-Wan had contacted him from Ahjane, seeking guidance on the blessing ceremony Dynast K'lia, Onara's father, had asked him to participate in with the young bride. Obi-Wan had not wanted to, seeking, Yoda knew, his countenance in not having to go through with it.
But Yoda had admonished Obi-Wan and told he must respect the customs of the Ahjane and see the request for the great honor it was and, reluctantly, Obi- Wan had agreed to do so. Not only did he go through with the blessing ceremony, he fell in love with Onara as a result and she, through no fault of her own, gave him a son.
Yoda sighed and, as he steered his chair through the corridors of the Temple, acknowledging, with only a half a mind, the bows from those he passed, he wondered what would have happened if he'd done as Obi-Wan had wanted and ordered him not to participate in the Ahjane blessing ceremony.
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Anakin, who was trying his best not to fidget, gazed down at the great rotunda of the main Senate Chamber. Over a thousand platforms, used by senators, diplomats and other representatives, lined the huge rounded walls. He and Obi-Wan were standing on one of the visitor's galleries overlooking the chamber.
It was the official opening day of the Senate and Obi-Wan had wanted to stop by before leaving Coruscant. Anakin knew why. On this day new members of the Senate were introduced, and there were, according to the Senate Calendar, 75 to be presented, Onara among them. However, Mas Amedda, the Vice-Chair of the Galactic Senate, had been reading the introductions alphabetically by last name. He had finally gotten to Onara's.
Noting Obi-Wan had moved closer to the edge of the gallery, Anakin followed. As there were no railing, it was a little dizzying. He looked around the vast hall. He had no idea where Onara's platform was located, but he knew once her name was announced it would float away from its mooring and out to the center of the rotunda. Anakin saw the tiny figure of Chancellor Palpatine, who had stood throughout all the introductions and warmly greeted every one of the new members. Looking at him, Anakin recalled the invitation he had received this morning to meet with the Chancellor later in the week.
In the years Anakin had been Obi-Wan's apprentice, he had spent some time with Palpatine. Not a lot, but enough that Anakin knew the Chancellor seemed to have a great interest in him. Their meetings, however, had occurred infrequently, as Anakin was often away with Obi-Wan, but they had been pleasantly spent, with the Chancellor mostly inquiring about his training and how it was going. Today, however, Anakin had had to send his regrets to the Chancellor, informing him he would be unable to meet with him as he was leaving Coruscant with his master.
Although he knew he did not have to accompany Obi-Wan upon what Anakin thought of as the Council's banishment of his master from Coruscant, he had let Obi-Wan know in no uncertain terms that if he was trying to get rid of Anakin by telling him he did not have to come, he was going to have try harder. Wherever his master went, so would he. Pure and simple. Obi-Wan had laughed and Anakin had been greatly touched by the warmth and gratitude he saw in those clear, blue-gray eyes.
However, truth be told, it did gall him a bit having to leave. He had hoped that now that he'd seen Padmé again, he would get to spend more time in her company, but if Obi-Wan could stand being parted from Onara, he could stand a few months away from Padmé. And Sith, he reminded himself, the first time the two of them had been together in nearly ten years, Padmé had spent it talking mostly about politics. Hardly an auspicious beginning for a relationship of a romantic nature.
Anakin sighed, focusing his attention back on the rotunda where Mas Amedda was pompously lifting his huge, horned head.
"From the sovereign system of Ahjane," he intoned, "I present to the Supreme Chancellor and the Senate of the Galactic Republic, Senator Onara Lenor."
Anakin suddenly picked up waves of tension from Obi-Wan. This was why his master had come. It was no secret that Anakin and Onara had paid a visit to Dyslogia Twang, try as the two had to keep it that way. And when Twang, hours later, gave his unprecedented apology and retraction and, on top of that, shocked everyone by taking an indefinite leave of absence, the rumor mills on Coruscant started turning. Speculation ran rampant as to what had happened, with that Sith-cursed group known as the Jedi Watch accusing Anakin of having put some sort of Jedi spell on Twang, an accusation which had made Anakin quite nervous since, in a manner of speaking, he had.
When Obi-Wan had inquired as to what had happened at Twang's office, Anakin, recalling his promise to Onara, had only said the two of them had engaged in a reasonable and levelheaded conversation with the gossip columnist, appealing to his innate sense of decency, and soberly requesting that he apologize for his slander and retract his statements.
Obi-Wan had said nothing after Anakin's explanation, his eyes boring deeply into his apprentice's. But, surprisingly, he had left it at that. Anakin suspected his master had some inkling of what had happened with Twang but, knowing he wouldn't approve of what Anakin had done and yet, at the same time, not disapproving of it either, decided to leave well enough alone.
Which was just as well. After an editorial appeared the next day on the HoloNet News accusing the Jedi Order and the Senate of having coerced the apology and retraction from Twang and demanding an inquest into the situation, Twang had immediately relayed a message from the ship taking him to his homeworld, declaring that he had given the apology and retraction willingly after having discussed it with Senator Lenor.
Anakin suspected, however, that the last thing Twang wanted was for that holotape Onara had of him blubbering like an overgrown baby turning up in the inquest. Twang's declaration of his total complicity in the matter had seemed to quell the controversy but Obi-Wan, Anakin knew, had still been concerned as to how Onara would be received by the Senate after all the hullabaloo.
Now he watched as Onara's platform detached from the wall and glided towards the Chancellor's stately column located in the center of the rotunda where he, Mas Amedda and that creepy-looking Sly Moore waited. The Umbaran had never failed to give Anakin the willies each time he'd visited with the Chancellor. She always seemed to be around. Never speaking, hardly moving, so that sometimes you forgot she was even there.
Anakin shuddered and drew his attention away from her and over to Onara's platform. He recognized Keria by her bright blonde hair as she sat next to Onara. Probably scared out of her skull, Anakin thought smiling. He didn't recognize the Bith sitting with them. Probably one of Onara's aides.
At first there was only silence as Onara's platform floated, then stopped in front of the Chancellor's column. Obi-Wan, who had moved so close to the edge of the gallery Anakin feared he would fall off, frowned at the continuing silence. The Chancellor gazed down at Onara, then smiled.
"Welcome, Senator Lenor. I hope you will find your tenure in the Senate rewarding. You certainly have started it off in a most, may I say, propitious manner. Anyone capable of finally silencing Dyslogia Twang will do quite well here."
Anakin's mouth dropped open and he saw Obi-Wan was just as surprised. Silence followed Palpatine's words then, suddenly, the entire rotunda burst into applause and cheers. Senators and their aides rose from their seats and gave Onara a standing ovation. Anakin nodded in understanding. Of course. If any one group had been the primary recipient of Twang's barbs, insults and innuendoes, it had been the members of the Senate. Although, he mused dryly, most of them had more than likely deserved it.
But, whether they did or not, what Onara had done, at least for the moment, had endeared her to them. He couldn't tell what her reaction was to all this, but Obi-Wan was evidently pleased, for he was smiling and clapping. Anakin joined him.
Once the applause had died down, Onara gave a short speech, thanking the Chancellor and the Senate for having granted Ahjane's admission into the Republic, and a lot of other boring stuff Anakin had learned over time politicians felt duty bound to say. He noted, however, Obi-Wan hanging on her every word, and the way he gazed at her, small and distant on her floating platform, he resembled a man taking a last, lingering look at something precious that was about to disappear forever from his sight.
Onara finished her speech and, to more applause, moved her platform back to its assigned spot against the wall. Mas Amedda continued down his list of names, but Obi-Wan had already moved away from the gallery and out into the hall. Anakin followed him. He had thought his master was going to the area where Onara's platform was located, so he was surprised when, instead, Obi- Wan kept walking towards the entrance.
"Master."
Obi-Wan stopped and turned. "What is it, Anakin? We shouldn't delay. Our transport for Triffis is leaving soon."
"Aren't you going to say goodbye to Onara?"
Obi-Wan stopped, a fleeting look of sadness crossing his face. "I think it best if I not see her now, Anakin, wouldn't you agree? I only wanted to assure myself she would not suffer unduly as a result of what happened with Twang. And, it appears, she will be all right."
Anakin wondered about that. The Senate Chamber was nothing but a rancor pit, and he certainly didn't relish leaving either Onara or Padmé in the midst of it but, he assured himself, neither women were pushovers, by no means. Certainly not Onara, who had surprised him with what she'd done to Twang, and his lovely Padmé had taken on the entire Trade Federation when she was only fourteen. No, he needn't worry. Both women were strong and capable. They would be fine.
"And, well," Obi-Wan said softly, breaking into Anakin's thoughts, but seeming to be speaking only to himself, "I've already said my goodbye to her."
He gazed past Anakin for a moment, then refocused on him, giving him a wide smile.
"Let's be on our way, my young apprentice. We have much work to do."
Anakin nodded, smiling in return and, striding confidently at the side of his master, looked forward to whatever new adventures awaited them.
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Later that evening, as Onara sat in her apartment, sipping a hot cup of Ahjane tea, she let herself slowly unwind from the day's events. Much had happened. After her introduction to the Senate, her office had been deluged with invitations to meetings, dinners, luncheons and soirées. Completely overwhelmed by it all, she had left it to her assistants to sort through.
But one request she had received she responded to promptly. It had come from Bail Organa, at the request of Chancellor Palpatine. She had been offered a seat on the Ethics Committee, one never before offered to a freshman senator. Onara had quickly accepted. It was not one of the most powerful committees in the Senate, but it was one she had a keen interest in serving on. Like Padmé, she believed strongly in the Republic, and she was highly motivated to see that it was restored to the glory and prestige it had once possessed, for she was determined to help make the Senate an entity that Obi-Wan could once again proudly serve.
She knew how much the current level of corruption in the Senate distressed him, and she wanted to do something about it so he would no longer be so cynical about government. Sipping her tea, she recalled the standing ovation the senators had given her, but she wryly speculated as to how much longer their goodwill would last once she got to work on the committee.
As she finished the last of her tea, the door chimed. Since Keria was sleeping, having been totally exhausted by all that had happened on this most eventful day, Onara got up and answered it. A tall, thin, mournful- looking alien stood in the doorway, dressed in a plain gray jumpsuit, a blazon on his chest signifying he worked for something called _Bulbon's Delivery Service_.
"Senator Onara Lenor?" he queried in a low, slow voice.
"Yes, I'm Senator Lenor."
He handed her a white box, wrapped with a gold and silver ribbon. He then passed over a small datapad to which Onara affixed her thumbprint. He bowed and stepped back into the lift, the doors closing behind him.
Onara took the box into the sitting area and sat on the couch with it. She undid the ribbon and opened it. Inside, wrapped in saffron-colored tissue paper, was an Ahjane matron's shawl, the kind worn by the highest ladies of her homeworld. It was green and blue with a long gold fringe. On top of it lay a small white envelope. Onara picked it up, her fingers trembling as she opened it. She drew out a thick ivory card upon which a note was written in neat, but bold black handwriting.
_Wrap this about you, my love, at night or whenever you feel a chill. Wrap it about you and our son when you tell him your stories, knowing that, although I am not there with you, nor can I ever be, my arms are about you both, protecting and loving you. Always and forever. And remember, if ever you or Ben have need of me, call for me, and I will come._
The card was unsigned. Onara pressed it to her heart, closing her eyes, but tears slipped beneath the lids anyway. She lowered the card, placing it on the couch. Taking the shawl out of the box, she wrapped it around her shoulders. It was warm and soft and smelled faintly of incense. And of him.
To be continued....
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_HoloNet News: The Information Source for the Galactic Republic - Afternoon Edition Broadcast Feed_
_VIRGILLIAN NODE_ - Although reports are scattered due to a communications blackout, civil war has broken out in the Virgillian system between the Virgillian Free Alignment and the Aristocracy. As this is a developing story, updates will be broadcast as they are received.
_KANA CITY, KANA_ - Noted author Marc Ti died peacefully in his sleep in his mountain estate on Kana at the age of 141. He was famous for his book, _Handbook to a Successful Marriage_, which has sold over 1 trillion copies galaxy-wide and been translated into 5,000 languages and sub-languages since it was published a hundred years ago. Admired for his ability to address all types of marriages involving all kinds of species Ti, though never married himself, decided to write the handbook after observing the failure of the marriages of many of his friends.
_CLOUD CITY, BESPIN_ - An explosion in a Tibanna gas mine killed two workers and injured dozens of others. Authorities were quick to assure the populace this was not the work of terrorists. For the past several weeks, a group known as the People's United Front has demanded that the managers of Cloud City provide adequate medical protection for its workers. Citing the rising cost of such protection, the managers refused. Jeree Ya-Teel, leader of PUF, blamed the explosion on cutbacks in the Republic's Health and Safety Inspection Department. "They're supposed to keep an eye on things. We used to have two inspectors come out every three months. Now, it's one every six months. Keep this up and, trust me, more people are going to die."
_RAXUS PRIME_ - Count Dooku of Serenno, formerly a member of the Jedi Order, in a speech broadcasted on a pirated channel of the HoloNet, blasted both the Republic and the Jedi Order, accusing them of being hopelessly corrupt and out of touch with the people they're supposed to protect. Calling upon all who still believed in justice and freedom to rally around his cause, Dooku promised he would not rest until a new day dawned in the galaxy, where all beings, no matter their species, gender or non-gender, religious affiliation or socio-economic status, reaped the full benefits of citizenship.
_SPECIAL EDITION OF SIGHTINGS BY TAWNG_
_IMAGE OF BLUE-SKIINED TWI'LEK FEMALE_
Greetings, gentle beings. I'm Zenna Efeyni. We're bringing you a special edition of _Sightings by Twang_ to make two announcements. First, Dyslogia Twang is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the HolotNet News. He will be returning to his homeworld of Gira and has no plans in the immediate future to return to broadcasting. Second, before he left Coruscant, Twang recorded the following message:
_IMAGE OF TWANG IN PALE GRAY ROBE GAZING SOMBERLY AT CAMERA_
I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to Senator Onara Lenor and Master Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi for statements I made regarding them. I also offer my apology to the Galactic Senate and the Jedi Order, and I hereby retract any statements made involving all concerned. My statements were not based on fact, but on conjecture and speculation, and any harm or injury I might have caused Senator Lenor, Master Kenobi or anyone associated with them, I now offer my apology.
_IMAGE OF ZENNA EFEYNI SMILING WIDELY_
Thank you, Twang. Let's all wish him much happiness in his new life and our hopes he'll be returning soon. An announcement will be made shortly as to what will replace _Sightings by Twang_. Ta ta and much happiness!
_Broadcast Feed Terminated_
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Obi-Wan walked slowly alongside Yoda who was seated in a floating chair. This allowed the Jedi Master to converse with the younger Jedi at face level, which Obi-Wan much appreciated since it helped to prevent cricks in his neck from having to look down at the diminutive Jedi. The two were walking in the spacious corridor located near the entrance to the Jedi Temple.
Other Jedi--masters, knights, initiates, padawans, and couriers--and the occasional droid, went about their business, but neither Yoda or Obi-Wan took note of them or of their surroundings. Deep in conversation, they also did not notice the sidelong glances they received when others walked pass.
"Punishment it is not."
"If you say so, Master."
"Preventive measure you should think of it as."
Obi-Wan's expression twisted. "Preventive?" He laughed sharply. "It sounds more like banishment since the Council's decision was that I'm to leave Coruscant immediately and return to the field."
"Banishment it is not. But, yes, preventive it is."
"In what way, Master?"
"Afraid the Council is."
"Afraid? Afraid of what?"
Yoda stopped the movement of his chair, forcing Obi-Wan to stop also. The Jedi Master looked over, his leaf-green eyes somber.
"Of losing you, that is what they fear."
Obi-Wan shook his head. "I thought I made it quite clear I will not leave the Jedi Order. That I will remain true to the commitment I've made. Doesn't the Council believe me?"
"Believe you they do, but..." Yoda stopped, tilting his head, his long pointed ears twitching.
Obi-Wan took in and released a deep breath. He had to admit it irritated him to no end when Yoda got into these moods whereby he would draw out the conversation by only offering information piece-meal.
"But what, Master?" he pressed, pitching his voice to let Yoda know he wasn't in the mood to play this particular game today.
"Of the members of the Council, how many are human?" Yoda suddenly asked.
Startled by the question, Obi-Wan stared at him for a moment. "Three," he answered. "Masters Billaba, Gallia and Windu."
Yoda nodded. "Agree do you the concept of taking a mate and raising children is nearly universal in all sentient species?"
"It would appear so," Obi-Wan said cautiously, not sure where Yoda was taking the conversation.
"And yet, out all of the species in the galaxy only a few, humans in particular, so much of their energy devote to it."
"I can't say one way or the other having never done research on the matter."
Yoda grunted, adjusting his robe about him as he started up the floating chair, Obi-Wan once again walking alongside him.
"Research I have done on it."
Obi-Wan arched an eyebrow. "Really?"
"The devotion of humans to their mates and their offspring," Yoda stated, ignoring the pointed look Obi-Wan gave him, "and the amount of time and resources they devote to their protection and care that of most species outstrips."
"Master Yoda, this is all very fascinating, but I don't see---"
"Did not your own words in the Council Chamber hear, Master Obi-Wan?"
Now it was Obi-Wan's turn to stop and Yoda's to wait for him. "My words?"
Yoda moved his floating chair closer until he was just in front of Obi-Wan.
"If universe," he said quietly and slowly, "cold, dark and lifeless were to around you become, and Onara and your child were all that remained, joy you would still know unbounded." The corner of Yoda's wide mouth quirked up. "No mention of Jedi Order was there in your statement."
Obi-Wan stared open-mouthed at Yoda. Then he quickly recovered himself.
"But...surely the Council knew what I meant. Right after I said that I assured them my loyalties still lie and always would with the Order."
Yoda shook his head, as if he were listening to a young child trying to convince him he had not told a lie.
"Master Obi-Wan," he chided gently. He pointed to Obi-Wan's forehead. "Those words from your head you spoke." He moved his knobby finger down to Obi-Wan's chest. "The others from your heart came. And it was those words of the heart, with such passion and such conviction spoken, that made the Council afraid. Especially Master Oppo. Believe it or not, much admires you he does."
Obi-Wan did not respond, finding that hard to believe. Yoda, noting his expression, laughed.
"True it is. Need you the Order does. Now more than ever. Of this Master Oppo is much aware. Therefore, afraid he is that leave the Order you will to be with your child and the woman who bore him. And this fear his words sharpen."
A sudden, jagged pain twisted through Obi-Wan's heart. Blasted, he thought, how many times did he have to say it and, therefore, relive it. Onara and Ben were not his to be with and never would be. Then he was shocked by Yoda's next words.
"So certain are you?" the Jedi Master asked as if he'd been reading Obi- Wan's mind.
"Master Yoda," Obi-Wan said firmly, ignoring Yoda's question. "I don't know what more I can say to you or to the Council. I will not abandon the Order. I will finish Anakin's training as I promised my master, and I will remain completely loyal and, if need be, give my life to the Jedi and to the Republic."
Yoda folded his hands neatly in his lap as he floated in front of Obi-Wan.
"This I believe, Obi-Wan. This the Council believes, too."
"But they're still sending me away from Coruscant," he said, a tinge of bitterness in his voice.
"Yes," Yoda said simply.
"Even in light of Twang's apology and retraction of his statements regarding myself and Onara?"
Yoda nodded.
Obi-Wan straightened his shoulders, his chin lifted. "Then I shall do as the Council orders. But, I don't see why Anakin has to share in this," and his voice twisted around the word, "_preventive_ measure. He's been longing to return to Coruscant. I would like for him to remain here."
"If remain here he wishes, stay he can. Much he can learn here too."
"Thank you, Master," Obi-Wan said. "When must I leave?"
"In two days. Assignment we have for you."
Obi-Wan bowed deeply but, as he turned to leave, Yoda called after him.
"Ben, how does he?"
Obi-Wan stopped, both pain and delight bursting in his heart.
"He does well, Master. Sinja-Bau is training him, and Onara says he's the brightest two-year old..."
Obi-Wan stopped, surprised his throat seemed to have closed up. He cleared it quickly, folding his arms into the sleeves of his robe and holding them tight against his chest.
"Onara has told him about me," he went on, willing his voice to remain steady. "Not as his father, of course. Just stories. He...he drew a picture of me as a gift. He much admires the Jedi."
Yoda nodded. "One day this picture I would like to see. The mind of a child is always a wondrous place to visit."
Obi-Wan smiled. "Yes, it is."
"Come to Coruscant will he?"
"Yes. When Senator Lenor has settled in a bit more."
"When come he does, visit to the Temple I will arrange for him. Like it will he?"
Obi-Wan smiled widely. "Oh, yes, very much so, Master."
"Then arrange it I will."
"Thank you, Master," Obi-Wan said, bowing deeply.
Yoda inclined his head, dismissing him. As he watched the young Jedi stride away, his dark brown robe sweeping behind him, his boots ringing on the floor, he thought of the day, nearly three years ago, when Obi-Wan had contacted him from Ahjane, seeking guidance on the blessing ceremony Dynast K'lia, Onara's father, had asked him to participate in with the young bride. Obi-Wan had not wanted to, seeking, Yoda knew, his countenance in not having to go through with it.
But Yoda had admonished Obi-Wan and told he must respect the customs of the Ahjane and see the request for the great honor it was and, reluctantly, Obi- Wan had agreed to do so. Not only did he go through with the blessing ceremony, he fell in love with Onara as a result and she, through no fault of her own, gave him a son.
Yoda sighed and, as he steered his chair through the corridors of the Temple, acknowledging, with only a half a mind, the bows from those he passed, he wondered what would have happened if he'd done as Obi-Wan had wanted and ordered him not to participate in the Ahjane blessing ceremony.
-------------
Anakin, who was trying his best not to fidget, gazed down at the great rotunda of the main Senate Chamber. Over a thousand platforms, used by senators, diplomats and other representatives, lined the huge rounded walls. He and Obi-Wan were standing on one of the visitor's galleries overlooking the chamber.
It was the official opening day of the Senate and Obi-Wan had wanted to stop by before leaving Coruscant. Anakin knew why. On this day new members of the Senate were introduced, and there were, according to the Senate Calendar, 75 to be presented, Onara among them. However, Mas Amedda, the Vice-Chair of the Galactic Senate, had been reading the introductions alphabetically by last name. He had finally gotten to Onara's.
Noting Obi-Wan had moved closer to the edge of the gallery, Anakin followed. As there were no railing, it was a little dizzying. He looked around the vast hall. He had no idea where Onara's platform was located, but he knew once her name was announced it would float away from its mooring and out to the center of the rotunda. Anakin saw the tiny figure of Chancellor Palpatine, who had stood throughout all the introductions and warmly greeted every one of the new members. Looking at him, Anakin recalled the invitation he had received this morning to meet with the Chancellor later in the week.
In the years Anakin had been Obi-Wan's apprentice, he had spent some time with Palpatine. Not a lot, but enough that Anakin knew the Chancellor seemed to have a great interest in him. Their meetings, however, had occurred infrequently, as Anakin was often away with Obi-Wan, but they had been pleasantly spent, with the Chancellor mostly inquiring about his training and how it was going. Today, however, Anakin had had to send his regrets to the Chancellor, informing him he would be unable to meet with him as he was leaving Coruscant with his master.
Although he knew he did not have to accompany Obi-Wan upon what Anakin thought of as the Council's banishment of his master from Coruscant, he had let Obi-Wan know in no uncertain terms that if he was trying to get rid of Anakin by telling him he did not have to come, he was going to have try harder. Wherever his master went, so would he. Pure and simple. Obi-Wan had laughed and Anakin had been greatly touched by the warmth and gratitude he saw in those clear, blue-gray eyes.
However, truth be told, it did gall him a bit having to leave. He had hoped that now that he'd seen Padmé again, he would get to spend more time in her company, but if Obi-Wan could stand being parted from Onara, he could stand a few months away from Padmé. And Sith, he reminded himself, the first time the two of them had been together in nearly ten years, Padmé had spent it talking mostly about politics. Hardly an auspicious beginning for a relationship of a romantic nature.
Anakin sighed, focusing his attention back on the rotunda where Mas Amedda was pompously lifting his huge, horned head.
"From the sovereign system of Ahjane," he intoned, "I present to the Supreme Chancellor and the Senate of the Galactic Republic, Senator Onara Lenor."
Anakin suddenly picked up waves of tension from Obi-Wan. This was why his master had come. It was no secret that Anakin and Onara had paid a visit to Dyslogia Twang, try as the two had to keep it that way. And when Twang, hours later, gave his unprecedented apology and retraction and, on top of that, shocked everyone by taking an indefinite leave of absence, the rumor mills on Coruscant started turning. Speculation ran rampant as to what had happened, with that Sith-cursed group known as the Jedi Watch accusing Anakin of having put some sort of Jedi spell on Twang, an accusation which had made Anakin quite nervous since, in a manner of speaking, he had.
When Obi-Wan had inquired as to what had happened at Twang's office, Anakin, recalling his promise to Onara, had only said the two of them had engaged in a reasonable and levelheaded conversation with the gossip columnist, appealing to his innate sense of decency, and soberly requesting that he apologize for his slander and retract his statements.
Obi-Wan had said nothing after Anakin's explanation, his eyes boring deeply into his apprentice's. But, surprisingly, he had left it at that. Anakin suspected his master had some inkling of what had happened with Twang but, knowing he wouldn't approve of what Anakin had done and yet, at the same time, not disapproving of it either, decided to leave well enough alone.
Which was just as well. After an editorial appeared the next day on the HoloNet News accusing the Jedi Order and the Senate of having coerced the apology and retraction from Twang and demanding an inquest into the situation, Twang had immediately relayed a message from the ship taking him to his homeworld, declaring that he had given the apology and retraction willingly after having discussed it with Senator Lenor.
Anakin suspected, however, that the last thing Twang wanted was for that holotape Onara had of him blubbering like an overgrown baby turning up in the inquest. Twang's declaration of his total complicity in the matter had seemed to quell the controversy but Obi-Wan, Anakin knew, had still been concerned as to how Onara would be received by the Senate after all the hullabaloo.
Now he watched as Onara's platform detached from the wall and glided towards the Chancellor's stately column located in the center of the rotunda where he, Mas Amedda and that creepy-looking Sly Moore waited. The Umbaran had never failed to give Anakin the willies each time he'd visited with the Chancellor. She always seemed to be around. Never speaking, hardly moving, so that sometimes you forgot she was even there.
Anakin shuddered and drew his attention away from her and over to Onara's platform. He recognized Keria by her bright blonde hair as she sat next to Onara. Probably scared out of her skull, Anakin thought smiling. He didn't recognize the Bith sitting with them. Probably one of Onara's aides.
At first there was only silence as Onara's platform floated, then stopped in front of the Chancellor's column. Obi-Wan, who had moved so close to the edge of the gallery Anakin feared he would fall off, frowned at the continuing silence. The Chancellor gazed down at Onara, then smiled.
"Welcome, Senator Lenor. I hope you will find your tenure in the Senate rewarding. You certainly have started it off in a most, may I say, propitious manner. Anyone capable of finally silencing Dyslogia Twang will do quite well here."
Anakin's mouth dropped open and he saw Obi-Wan was just as surprised. Silence followed Palpatine's words then, suddenly, the entire rotunda burst into applause and cheers. Senators and their aides rose from their seats and gave Onara a standing ovation. Anakin nodded in understanding. Of course. If any one group had been the primary recipient of Twang's barbs, insults and innuendoes, it had been the members of the Senate. Although, he mused dryly, most of them had more than likely deserved it.
But, whether they did or not, what Onara had done, at least for the moment, had endeared her to them. He couldn't tell what her reaction was to all this, but Obi-Wan was evidently pleased, for he was smiling and clapping. Anakin joined him.
Once the applause had died down, Onara gave a short speech, thanking the Chancellor and the Senate for having granted Ahjane's admission into the Republic, and a lot of other boring stuff Anakin had learned over time politicians felt duty bound to say. He noted, however, Obi-Wan hanging on her every word, and the way he gazed at her, small and distant on her floating platform, he resembled a man taking a last, lingering look at something precious that was about to disappear forever from his sight.
Onara finished her speech and, to more applause, moved her platform back to its assigned spot against the wall. Mas Amedda continued down his list of names, but Obi-Wan had already moved away from the gallery and out into the hall. Anakin followed him. He had thought his master was going to the area where Onara's platform was located, so he was surprised when, instead, Obi- Wan kept walking towards the entrance.
"Master."
Obi-Wan stopped and turned. "What is it, Anakin? We shouldn't delay. Our transport for Triffis is leaving soon."
"Aren't you going to say goodbye to Onara?"
Obi-Wan stopped, a fleeting look of sadness crossing his face. "I think it best if I not see her now, Anakin, wouldn't you agree? I only wanted to assure myself she would not suffer unduly as a result of what happened with Twang. And, it appears, she will be all right."
Anakin wondered about that. The Senate Chamber was nothing but a rancor pit, and he certainly didn't relish leaving either Onara or Padmé in the midst of it but, he assured himself, neither women were pushovers, by no means. Certainly not Onara, who had surprised him with what she'd done to Twang, and his lovely Padmé had taken on the entire Trade Federation when she was only fourteen. No, he needn't worry. Both women were strong and capable. They would be fine.
"And, well," Obi-Wan said softly, breaking into Anakin's thoughts, but seeming to be speaking only to himself, "I've already said my goodbye to her."
He gazed past Anakin for a moment, then refocused on him, giving him a wide smile.
"Let's be on our way, my young apprentice. We have much work to do."
Anakin nodded, smiling in return and, striding confidently at the side of his master, looked forward to whatever new adventures awaited them.
--------------
Later that evening, as Onara sat in her apartment, sipping a hot cup of Ahjane tea, she let herself slowly unwind from the day's events. Much had happened. After her introduction to the Senate, her office had been deluged with invitations to meetings, dinners, luncheons and soirées. Completely overwhelmed by it all, she had left it to her assistants to sort through.
But one request she had received she responded to promptly. It had come from Bail Organa, at the request of Chancellor Palpatine. She had been offered a seat on the Ethics Committee, one never before offered to a freshman senator. Onara had quickly accepted. It was not one of the most powerful committees in the Senate, but it was one she had a keen interest in serving on. Like Padmé, she believed strongly in the Republic, and she was highly motivated to see that it was restored to the glory and prestige it had once possessed, for she was determined to help make the Senate an entity that Obi-Wan could once again proudly serve.
She knew how much the current level of corruption in the Senate distressed him, and she wanted to do something about it so he would no longer be so cynical about government. Sipping her tea, she recalled the standing ovation the senators had given her, but she wryly speculated as to how much longer their goodwill would last once she got to work on the committee.
As she finished the last of her tea, the door chimed. Since Keria was sleeping, having been totally exhausted by all that had happened on this most eventful day, Onara got up and answered it. A tall, thin, mournful- looking alien stood in the doorway, dressed in a plain gray jumpsuit, a blazon on his chest signifying he worked for something called _Bulbon's Delivery Service_.
"Senator Onara Lenor?" he queried in a low, slow voice.
"Yes, I'm Senator Lenor."
He handed her a white box, wrapped with a gold and silver ribbon. He then passed over a small datapad to which Onara affixed her thumbprint. He bowed and stepped back into the lift, the doors closing behind him.
Onara took the box into the sitting area and sat on the couch with it. She undid the ribbon and opened it. Inside, wrapped in saffron-colored tissue paper, was an Ahjane matron's shawl, the kind worn by the highest ladies of her homeworld. It was green and blue with a long gold fringe. On top of it lay a small white envelope. Onara picked it up, her fingers trembling as she opened it. She drew out a thick ivory card upon which a note was written in neat, but bold black handwriting.
_Wrap this about you, my love, at night or whenever you feel a chill. Wrap it about you and our son when you tell him your stories, knowing that, although I am not there with you, nor can I ever be, my arms are about you both, protecting and loving you. Always and forever. And remember, if ever you or Ben have need of me, call for me, and I will come._
The card was unsigned. Onara pressed it to her heart, closing her eyes, but tears slipped beneath the lids anyway. She lowered the card, placing it on the couch. Taking the shawl out of the box, she wrapped it around her shoulders. It was warm and soft and smelled faintly of incense. And of him.
To be continued....