Don't let anyone writer tell you they don't like feed back. They do and I am no different.
Remember // denotes minds speech or mind thought. This one is long and depending on how it is received is how much incentive I will have to finish the next post. Ewen
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The two Jedi, master and apprentice trudged up the steep hill to meet Qui-Gon's old friend, Kerchuk, leader of the Movine tribe.
When their planet started to break up the Jedi were kind enough to find them a home here on this planet. They were and are cave dwellers with primitive living style. The steep hills of this planet suited them.
Jinn looked forward to their visit with them. He wanted to learn if there was any truth to what the inn keeper said about fighting between the young leader and the old one, Kerchuk.
"Master you have been terribly quiet today. Is there something wrong. I mean do you feel well?"
"Yes, I am more than well. The brisk walk is making me feel vibrant, more in touch with the living force."
"Well it does nothing for me but tires me out. I wish we would get there soon."
"We will soon enough Padawan. Soon enough."
Jinn was right of course the trek was almost over. Xanatos would have preferred it ended long ago. His feet hurt. He told his master his boots grew smaller for him but Jinn being the thrifty one urged his padawan to wear them for a little longer to get more use out of them.
Jinn was pleased to find a a spread of food set out for he and his padawan, fit for a king.
Jinn discussed what the innkeeper said and Kerchuk assured him that although there were squabbles that would break out occasionally, things went well with his people.
"Be leery of the man Master Jedi. He is not what he appears to be. Of course you need not know about it I suppose. You don't plan to have any more communication with him do you?"
"Well we might stay the night there on our return trip to our ship. We could find no place close to land. We landed, then walked out way here."
"Well we do thank you for you and the Jedi's concern. Send Master Yoda our regards. Now as for the inn keeper. It has been said he deals with pirates off the ocean a few miles away. There are rumors he is the main co-conspirator with the pirates to find homes for children that have been taken from their true homes. Slave trade, nasty business Master Jedi. I think if you stumble into his nest of wrongdoing he just might have the pirate friends of his do away with you. We see a lot up here Master Jedi. See a lot from these cliffs but say very little or nothing when it concerns the business of the pirates. Here let me show you."
Kerchuk led Master Jinn and Xani to the edge of one of the cliffs, where if you looked out over it, you could see the shoreline of the ocean as it grazed the edge of the land.
"There, right there is where they land. We see many people or other species being brought to the Inn. Some of them young, some very old and almost feeble. We however never see them in the city unless they work for someone. Indentured servants they are called but you and me, we know what they are. That's why we keep quiet up here being the outsiders and not from this world. We know our place. It's none of our business how many slaves are bought and sold out of the inn. Some buyers come from other planets when there are a big shipment of slaves. Like the time the boy came. The one you speak of."
It was not that Qui-Gon was not listening, he was. He hoped to relay the information to the temple and possibly get permission to investigate it once they took it up in front of the Senate on Coruscant, but the mention of Obi-Wan peaked his interest even more.
"You know when they brought Obi-Wan to the Inn."
"Yes about six months ago. Not long after we settled here. He was in rough shape he was too. No telling what "kind" of "abuse" he suffered from the pirates before he got here. I know the innkeeper to be cruel, but there are other things than painful cruelty that can suck a life out of those slaves. He was a good looking lad when he came. Last time I saw him I couldn't say that about him. The weight he has dropped and the overhaul condition of him,I wouldn't have recognized him had I not heard his name called. I was even there when they put the collar on him. Seemed to hurt him it did at first. He got sick and had some kind of seizure. They say he's a bit better now though."
"Who says?"
"We have friends on this planet who come up here and visit. Some of them have stayed that that very inn where the boy's lives, if you can call it that. Any way I have heard talk that he is not sick so much now. Does what he is told and if he doesn't he's beaten into unconsciousness sometimes. You helped us. Too bad the Jedi can't help that poor little one and the others brought here and sold. Shame it is indeed."
"The inn keeper told me that the Jedi missed Obi-Wan because we did not check this planet."
"Well if he came from this planet he is not from around here. I saw him get off the ship."
"To tell you the truth, I hope to be able to do something."
"Oh master not again. You always have such a way with these type of people.:"
"What type are they Xani? Sometimes you almost disappoint me with you lack of touch with the living force. Some are not as fortunate as you. Do you not want to help those too?"
"Well yes master, but the boy could probably never get a job. Maybe he is better off with food in his belly and a roof over his head."
"Not much food as I could tell padawan. We will stay the night here. We will survey the camp to insure everything is as it should be. In the morning we will head down the cliffs. I want to contact Yoda later tonight"
Jinn tried to keep his mind focused on the job at hand, helping these people start over again. He was successful at times and then he would let his mind wonder back to the waif of a boy who had suffered at the hands of the cruel inn keeper. Jinn hoped he could be able to expose the innkeeper for what he was, a slaver and find a place where Obi-Wan could live if he could not be sent back home.
//He should be able to return home. I am sure his family wonders where is or if he is alright.//
The drenching rain started again that evening. Jinn and Xanatos sat in their tent after a large last meal and watched the rain. There was little else to do. Most of the people had turned in for the night.
Jinn waited on a call from Master Yoda, and was relieved to finally get it. He had an idea and he wanted to share it with his former master.
"Master I have been anxious to speak to you. You have called later than normal."
"Problems here there had been. That took first priority ."
"Is everything alright?"
Jinn noticed the stress in the diminutive master's voice.
"Alright they are not. Need you back here right away I do."
Qui-Gon knew he would go if the temple was in trouble but he had very much wanted to stay because of the Kenobi child and the slavery ring.
"What has happened? Was the Temple attacked?"
"No, could have handled that better I think. Two of our padawans out in the city, kidnapped they were. Snatched right of the docks of Coruscant as they watched the fish harvested off the boats."
"Master I am sorry to interrupt you but this is important. Do you think the children could have been taken by slavers?"
"Think that exactly I do. A ship unknown the others on the dock landed there. Took the children they did to be sold into slavery."
"I may have found the missing padawans and the reason why the Kenobi child and I have such a close connection. Kenobi's fate was the same as our padawans. He was brought here by pirate slavers and now if I had to guess, I would say that the Jedi padawans will arrive here within a few days. "
"Think all this you do, how?"
I found out from Kerchuk, who by the way is doing well, that the innkeeper that has the force sensitive slave has connections with the pirates. The captured ones are brought here and I suppose auctioned off to highest bidder. Maybe this is why the force brought Obi-Wan and I together. I mean I think we can get the padawans back."
"Good idea you have Jinn. Afraid though you may be wrong about the boy. Force does not push a bond on two unless plans there are. I think this boy has more of link with you than you yourself realize. I can feel his mental aura in your mind, while Xanatos' bond grows weaker I think."
Qui-Gon knew the master was right about Xanatos. Since he left the inn, it had been hard to connect with his padawan.
"Are you saying the Kenobi's bond with me if indeed that is what it is, is strangling the training bond I have with my padawan. I can not have that Master Yoda."
"Know not what to do. Have never seen it before I have not, but true it is. This boy bonds with you as we speak and it grows stronger. Know this I do, two training bonds you have. One grows weaker as the other feeds from it.."
Yoda gave Qui-Gon some time for this to sink in. Although Jinn knew something was happening with he and Xani's bond and he felt the other bond forming, he tried to ignore it.. Now that Master Yoda was aware of it he could not ignore it any longer.
Yoda continued.
"Stay where you are, you will. Let me know if ship of captured beings arrives there. In the meantime, send a few masters to your aid I will. Procure a couple of rooms at the Inn. Make no mention of slavery. Also do nothing to tip your hand Jinn. The child for now is a slave and no matter what happens the Inn keeper and the Kenobi child must think everything is the same. If confrontation there is between the two, stand aside and ignore it. Imperative to your mission it is. Want Padawan Bant and Garen back I do, alive and well………………….."
Jinn discussed his plans with Kerchuk. He had to because he needed them to verify if anyone should ask that the Jedi are there to help his people set up an irrigation system for their crops. That was the reason he would give the inn keeper for their extended stay. Jinn only hoped the inn keeper would allow the Jedi to stay and not have any suspicion of him. He got the impression that the man was not all that intelligent and would not figure out what was going on. Once the pirates arrived it would be too late to have the Jedi leave. That would only increase any suspicion the Jedi had if they were indeed asked to leave after paying for their extended stay.
"Master I understand that we have to try to get our padawans back to the temple but what will you do with the others that are aboard ship."
"Quite simple Padawan, we will see that they reach their respective homes safely and speedily."
Qui-Gon studied his padawan a moment. It had always been hard to bond with this apprentice. As hard as he tried, the bond never strengthened over time as one would expect it too. Now with the new boy, Obi-Wan in the picture, the bond with Xanatos seem to evaporate hour by hour, leaving Qui-Gon to wonder of his current apprentice's sincerity and commitment to the Jedi order. That itself brought pain to the big master. Had he failed this apprentice in some way?
"What about the little vagabond boy at the inn?"
"Why should he be any different. I mean he must have a home; a family that wants him back."
"Well you do seem to have a preoccupation with him and he is a force sensitive. I thought maybe you planned to take him back to the temple with us."
"Whatever for Xanatos? You know very well he is too old to train. Even Master Yoda voiced the same sentiments."
"Master, even I can feel his immense power through the force and he has a force collar on. Can you imagine the level of midiclorians in his blood stream? I bet they might be equal to yours or Master Yoda's."
Jinn noted a touch of envy in the young man's voice. He hoped it was not jealousy for that was unbecoming to a Jedi. Had he begun to question everything about his padawan without rightful reason? This was not like the gentle giant of a master. Normally his loyalty to his padawan would be fierce and never ending. Now the opposite seemed true.
"Yes, well we might check his level just out of curiosity, but I assure you he can not be trained now, no matter how high his level is and how powerful he is. He will remain a private citizen not welcomed into the folds of the Jedi. Too bad we missed such a strong one."
"Well I am sure you and Master Yoda are right. He is too old to train and probably is lucky to be able to read a young child's book if it were placed in front of him. I have never heard of an illiterate Jedi."
Xanatos laughed with his remark. Jinn raised eyebrow and gave his padawan a perplexing look.
//The boy can think of the most non- essential things. Does he think our instructors at the temple could not take someone like Obi-Wan, so gifted in the force and teach him his book lessons in no time flat? //
Nothing more was said as they traveled to the inn.
Qui-Gon did however continue to try to think through why he felt so disconnected from his apprentice. What was even worse, the master did not feel badly about it, nor was he concerned enough to let it create worry in him.
Jinn felt a certain calm come over him when he first stepped on the property of the Inn. He could see Delbe, the inn keeper standing just outside the barn, pumping water for the farm animals. He looked again toward the barn to see the little Kenobi slave peak around the barn door. Jinn thought he saw a smile don the little one's face. If it was, it was the first time the boy expressed any hint of happiness. Just then the inn keeper saw the boy and went to where he was. Not long after, he closed the barn door. The big Jedi master thought he heard a stifled cry and then something fell or was knocked down..
Qui-Gon Jinn felt an overwhelming feeling of despair and pain. He had no doubt it came from Obi-Wan, although he was still unsure how.
Delbe, the inn keeper returned from the barn replacing the belt that held his trousers on. He smiled at the Jedi.
"Is this just a visit or do you wish a room for the night?"
"Well we would like to stay but for longer than a night. We need to stay and help the Movine people set up an irrigation line. There will be a couple of other Jedi joining us. Do you have a room for us for a week or two."
"Well I run an Inn Jinn and I don't turn money away."
Delbe remembered the pirates were due to arrive soon with another shipment of slaves. Nevertheless, he did not want the money from the Jedi to slip away even though the pirates paid well for a room and food.
"Look I will be having some..well business associates coming in a few days. We can handle our affairs out in the little office I have in the barn and I have more than enough room for you and them."
"You are a man with your hands in many dealings no doubt."
Delbe thought Jinn had just complimented him.
"Well I don't like to brag but I do have a mind for money. These friends of mine help people who want to relocate here. We how you say it find them jobs."
"Well besides being a good business man you do work for the charity of it. How commending."
"Yes, well like I said I do have my hands in a lot of projects. My wife is just about to put last-meal out. I only have a couple of other guests. How about we go in, you can wash up, and we can visit with the other guests while we share a quiet last-meal. Maybe I can coax my wife to join us."
"Sounds excellent. I can not wait to see what kind of culinary surprise she has for us tonight."
"UHN." The inn keeper was not as educated as he thought. The words Jinn spoke threw him for a moment..
He laughed when it finally occurred to him what Qui-Gon said.
"Oh you mean the food. Well I am not sure what she prepared, but you can bet it will good. Main reason I married her."
Xanatos spoke under his breath.
"No doubt."
Jinn shot his padawan a stern look. They had seemed to have lost their ability to mind speak. Well it had not been used and Jinn was worried about that. He did not want to try to explain this second bond issue with Xani, especially here with the Kenobi child so close. He did not want Xani to make a scene, which at times he was good for.
There were a total of six at the table for last meal. A minister, his wife, Jinn, Xani, and the inn keeper with his wife.
The food was placed on the table. All Obi-Wan had to do was pour drinks for them. He had washed up and stood off the side until he was needed. The minister was the first one to mention it. Jinn could not however question anything the innkeeper did with the boy.
"Will your son not being joining us sir?"
"My son? Don't curse me with such a title as his "father". He is not my son. He is… my... well he pays for a debt owed. I'll let him have some of the leftovers after he cleans the dining hall and the kitchen, not before. The boy gets lazy on me if you feed him before he does all his chores."
The minister's wife asked curiously about a debt by one so young.
"A child so young owes a debt. Of what kind?"
They didn't know this was a touchy situation with Delbe.
"Well it was a debt owed by his father. The boy "be" paying if off because his father is sick. Isn't that right boy?"
//Was this the same story he told me about Obi-Wan? What does he feed Obi-Wan if there is nothing left over?//
Jinn tried hard not to stare at the boy as he spoke. However Jinn found Obi-Wan to be a magnet for him. Jinn hung to every word and watched every movement, why the Jedi master was not sure.
Obi-Wan had his head hung down and his eyes fixed to the wooden floor. He knew better than to attempt a look at anyone at the table..
"Yes sir. I pay my father's debt."
"That's enough boy. I said that's enough. Now do you plan to settle in our community Reverend?"
The inn keeper shut Obi-Wan up very quickly.
"Oh we have a little longer on our trek and then we will be home."
"Well it's a good thing you stopped in and didn't try to travel. There is a big snow storm coming in tonight. And you, Master Jinn, how do you plan to lay pipes up there in the frozen ground?"
"We'll we are doing it a new way. We put the pipes above the ground."
"I'd like to see that when its done. Never seen it laid that way."
"Well you will have to come up with us once it completed."
The minister spoke again, he seemed fascinated by the Jedi's new way of doing things.
"I will have to remember that Master Jinn. I too have never seen pipes laid above the ground. But if you think of it, it makes sense doesn't it.?"
Jinn laughed, but it was fake.
"Well let's say it is easier on our backs if we don't have to dig ditches."
Everyone at the table laughed. Delbe noticed Master Jinn was out of tea.
"Kenobi, you have let the Jedi Master run out of tea. Bring him more now or I'll tie you to the bed post tonight and give you a tanning. Understand?"
Obi-Wan mumbled a "yes sir" and went to pour the Jedi master his tea.
The minister looked at the innkeeper.
"Is the boy that difficult that it actually requires physical descipline to keep him under control?"
"Can be, yes. Of course I manage to keep him in line. I more or less threaten more than I do."
He wanted to tone the fact that he abused Obi-Wan a great deal of the time and got a certain satisfaction doing it.
The minister's wife spoke again.
"Well I have two children at home and I find I am like you, I threaten more than I do."
//If you only knew how I suffer at his hands.//
Obi-Wan thought that as he listened to the conversation. Jinn jerked his head up to look at the boy. It was so obvious a movement on Qui-Gon's part that Delbe made a comment about it..
"Master Jinn is there something wrong with your tea? Did Kenobi not bring it hot enough for you?"
Delbe was not aware of what had transpired between the two. He thought Jinn's tea might be cold, certainly not the overwhelming fact that the Jedi master could here what his slave thought.
"No it's fine. Just the way I like it."
"Well the way you jerked your head up to glare at him, I thought for sure Kenobi done something wrong as usual. Can't have that now can we, Obi-Wan?"
//Does he know that belittling the child continually is mental abuse; just as bad sometimes as physical abuse?//
"No Master, we can't."
Jinn cringed with the word "master" spoken by the boy, as he addressed another. This was twice now the slave referred to Keeper Delbe as his master and it brought a feeling of unwarranted and unbecoming jealousy both times. However the fact that Qui-Gon had been able to hear Obi-Wan's comment through their fledgling link astounded him even further…….………. Qui-Gon and Xanatos said their good-byes to the minister and his wife. Qui-Gon looked forward to the tour of the farm and the barn. He wanted to know how much work Obi-Wan did and how he did it. He was aware he had a mission but he had to wait on the other Jedi and more importantly the pirate ship which was to arrive as soon as maybe tomorrow.
"Master Jinn are you sure I will not bore you with a tour of my farm? I mean we can forego that and go to the town and meet with the men you need to get your supplies from."
"If I may interrupt, my master is very in touch with the living force."
"Excuse me what does that mean in laymen's terms?"
"Sorry, that is a Jedi's way of saying he loves life and all things living, from plants to animals. He even holds a certain empathy for your servant, the Kenobi child."
//Now why did Xanatos bring Obi-Wan into this? He knows we are not to draw attention to our mission. To insinuate I am curious about the boy will not help us.//
"Is what the boy says true Master Jinn? I would not think and indentured servant would hold any kind of curiosity about him. Why the Kenobi boy? Of course you would hold a certain wonder about him since he is a force sensitive such as yourselves. I had almost forgotten. I guess because he has and never will be given the opportunity to use it.."
"Well as my apprentice pointed out I am in touch with all living things. Let's say the boy interests me. He's force sensitive yet does without it. I just wondered how that felt."
"Oh I thought you were worried that he was a literal slave. I assure you he is not. That is even against the law here. Now he is just paying back a debt and the collar was absolutely necessary. The boy was quite unruly when he was first brought here. But I assure you he has tamed his aggressive ways with the help of that collar and my strict regime I insist he follow or else. Have you ever worn a force collar?"
"No I can't say that I have. I just wondered if it bought pain or illness to one when he had to wear it."
Jinn knew that it did. He had lied.
What was worse, Xanatos knew very well his master lied. He could only gaze at his master in disbelief. It was the first time he had known Master Jinn to ever utter a lie. He knew perfectly well that they both had a force collar on them before. Xani do not give away his master's lie as he assumed it had some purpose. It would be interesting, he thought to find out just what Qui-Gon was fishing for. After all their mission was to free the padawans, not worry about some forgotten force sensitive kid that had nothing going for him.
"Let me assure you it does the boy no harm. Does it Kenobi?
Jinn looked up to see Obi-Wan just walk in the barn door.
Because Obi had not heard the question he could not answer so he just stood there. Evidently Delbe thought he took too long to answer the question, not knowing that he couldn't.
The boy's owner cupped his right hand and swung it around with all his force, catching Obi-Wan on the side of the head. Obi-Wan fell to the ground and seemed ashamed to rise. He did not offer to get up until Delbe yelled the order to do so or face the consequences.
Qui-Gon knew enough about the relationship to know that the consequences meant another beating of some kind. He fisted his hands and tucked them in the underside of his robe. It was a natural reaction to quell the anger for this man before him and not to inflame it.
The Inn keeper had to reach down and jerk the boy up on his feet.
Obi-Wan turned his face up for only the second time in the two visits of the Jedi. He let his ocean blue/green eyes, glistened with tears, cast a brief look at the Jedi master. Jinn seemed to know that the only thing that held Kenobi's tears in, was the fear of reprisal if he allowed to them to fall.
"I'm sorry I did not hear the question."
"Master Jinn wanted to know if the collar harmed you in anyway. I told him no, but I think he wanted to ask you."
Obi-Wan seemed to know what the answer was that he should give.
"No Master Jinn I am fine. It brings me no harm or illness "
He looked at Delbe to see if he answered right. The inn keeper nodded his head lightly.
Master Jinn experienced so much inner turmoil, yet at the same time, elation from Obi-Wan's spoken "Master Jinn". It seemed profoundly natural and very normal for this young one to call him "Master".
"Well the boy has got to feed my horses. He will be lucky to finish his work by nightfall, the way he has been slacking on his work this morning. Get on with you Obi and do as you are told.
"Obi?"
"That's a nickname he first used when he first came here. Was there anything else you wanted to ask him?"
//Obi, that name suits him.//
Delbe knew if Jinn was curious about other things then he wanted the boy beside him when he answered the questions.
"No I don't think so. Well there is one more thing. It has to do with the force he was blessed with."
"Go ahead and ask, then he does have to start his work."
"How long have you known you possessed the force Obi-Wan?"
"I think I have always known Master Jinn. But it was not until my mother lay dieing that she confirmed it. My father as well when he met his…"
Delbe grabbed the boy by the arm to stop him from carrying the conversation further.
"Master Jinn did not ask you about your parents. He asked about the force.. Now get on with ya boy get to your chores."
"Yes, your master is right, I have no further need of you boy. You should do what he says and not be derelict in you duty and obligations to him. Dlebe seems to provide all that you need and you in return should do what is expected of you."
Jinn wanted to wash his mouth after the lies he just spoke. Calling Delbe "Obi's" master left a bitter taste in his mouth. They were words better left unspoken by Master Jinn, for he held not truth in them whatsoever.. It was only a ruse so he could stay undercover.
Delbe seemed pleased that the boy was put in his place and cast aside by Master Jinn. It seemed Jinn had not true interest in the boy after all, thought Delbe.
//Did the boy intend to say "when his father met his "death"? Delbe insinuated the child's father was alive but ill and Obi-Wan worked for him for a debt owed by the father, interesting.//
Jinn wanted to appear that he lost interest in the boy so he wouldn't seem too curious about him. He waved his hand as if to dismiss the waif of a boy. When he did he felt a wave of shame and hurt from the connection with Obi-Wan, at being abruptly turned away. The slave Kenobi seemed to need Jinn's contact as much as Qui-Gon craved comfort from Obi-Wan's presence……………………..
Nothing of any eventful nature happened for two days. Then everything became a buzz of excitement. First of all the Jedi arrived, Master Tahl and Master Weis. The were masters to Bant and Garen respectively. They asked for and received the assignment because of their concern for their kidnapped apprentices. Qui-Gon suspected they would be the masters to come and help him with regaining possession of the children.
The four Jedi went up to the mountains to see their friend on the pretext they would survey and measure the land for the piping to be laid. Once up their they spent the night and left the next day, but not before they saw the pirate ship arrive. Five men dressed in regular street clothes descended from the ship and headed for the Inn. Or at least Jinn thought that is where they would find them once they trekked back to the inn themselves.
Sure enough once they returned, Jinn could see the men where in the bar section of the dining area having a gay old time with abundance of drink in front of them. They were eager to meet the Jedi. They had not realized yet that the children were Jedi, because the padawans were smart enough to keep it secret. The pirates thought they could fool the Jedi and that the dumb masters would assume they were just business men.
After the meeting between all of them and the head of the slaver's ring decided that the Jedi held no threat, Jinn and his group went to the dining area for mid-day meal. The others were content on drinking their nourishment.
Qui-Gon watched without being noticed as Obi-Wan ran from the bar to the dining area. He had been given the large task of serving both sides by himself. More than once he was cursed and yelled at for what the pirates saw as his slowness. In actuality the boy was quite speedy considering how many people he had to wait on. The Jedi waited patiently for their food. Unlike the pirates, they did not complain about the slow service. Nevertheless, that did not keep Delbe from reprimanding the boy for what he thought was his inability to keep up with his work.
Master Tahl had to grip Master Jinn's hand and hold him to keep him in place when one of the pirates tripped Kenobi as he carried a pitcher of beer. The room broke out in a thunderous roar of laughter at the boy who fell.
"Qui-Gon you know you can't interfere. Master Yoda orders remember. Bant and Garen's lives are at stake here. I know you hate to see the child abused in such a way, but think for a moment what will happen to the two apprentices held by those cut throat pirates if you interfere and our cover is blown."
Jinn pulled his hand away. He understood he could not say anything, but he did not like it.
What infuriated the master more than the child being tripped was the inn keeper's accusation that it was the boy's fault for being clumsy.
He watched as Delbe picked the boy up by his ear and threw him in the kitchen.
Jinn calmed down when he saw the child quickly return to clean the mess and continue serving.
Qui-Gon could see Obi-Wan pass Jinn an apologetic look.
//What would he have to be sorry for?//
//Because I am a clutch Master. I deserve to be punished.//
//You know that we can communicate back and forth telepathically?//
//Yes since the first you day you arrived. I just didn't know why or how? Do you know?//
//I am not sure, but we will have to find out won't we?//
//I don't guess it matters Master Jinn, I am here for a long time. //
//How long is that little one?//
//I think forever Master.//
Master Weiss drew Master Jinn's attention and Qui-Gon had to break his mental link with the little slave. However he was exhilarated after speaking to him. It was wrong. He should not have to let anyone intrude on he and Xanatos' bond. Jinn felt drawn to the boy; the magnetism he thought of it as before, seemed to multiply. He could not stop the desire to link with him.
Xanatos shot Master Jinn an almost knowing glare. He immediately got up and left the table but not before he shot daggers with his look to Obi-Wan. Kenobi saw it and seemed to understand it was because he had linked with the other boy's master and it did not set well with Xanatos.
Qui-Gon went up to he and his padawan's shared room not long after the boy left abruptly in anger. Jinn knew why he was angry and he dreaded the confrontation they would have once with Xanatos. It was necessary. He had decided to tell Xanatos of Obi-Wan but he suspected Xani already knew a great deal.
Xanatos lay in his bed with his back to the door. He heard his master enter but he didn't bother to say a word or even acknowledge the Jedi master's presence.
Jinn finally finished his shower and came out into the room.
"Did you plan to tell me Master?"
"What is it you think I should have told you Xani?"
"Qui-Gon I know you were holding a mental conversation with that little slave, Do you think me stupid master. I am not you know. I know something is happening to our bond and that you have formed some kind of bond with the boy. Do you deny it?"
"What you said, yes. I did not form a bond with him it just happened. I mean his intrusion was at first not wanted."
"Are you saying it is wanted now? How did it happen if you did not will it. Usually a bond is formed only with mutual consent and agreement. The boy may have wanted to bond because he wants out of his fate here, but you. You would break our bond for him? Have I done something to warrant being replaced?"
"No Xani. That's not it. I did not will it.I talked with Yoda and he has agreed. The boy can't be trained and I do not want another padawan. I had no hand in lessening our bond. It is the boy who bonds with me that is sucking the very life from our bond?"
"Are you saying even with a force collar on he can initiate his bond and destroy the bond you and I share?"
"That is exactly what I am saying. Even Master Yoda is not aware of anything like this happening and you know how long he has been a Jedi. I mean I will admit I am drawn to this boy but only because of the bond that forms without my permission or help. You have to believe me."
Xanatos knew that his master spoke the truth and that worried the padawan.
"Master you may think me jealous but I am not. Had you truly wanted him as your apprentice I would have stepped aside. I am aware that we are not as connected as we should be. I can not do anything to correct that. What concerns me is the child. Have you ever thought he is not from the side of the force that we are? Maybe there is dark in him. Maybe it was not by accident that the padawans were captured. Just maybe they know they have Jedi children and they have set their sights higher, for the most famous Master in the Jedi order, you."
Jinn dropped the data pad he held. Yes, he thought that had to be why this boy could overtake his mind and bond with him even though Jinn did nothing to encourage it. Xanatos had indeed stumbled onto the truth.
"Xanatos you are a genius. I will have to be careful. I also plan to talk to Master Yoda about this. You just may be right. Our bond is weak right now but I am sure we will find a way to break this boy's bond and ours will strengthen again, Until then I will shield from him. There is not telling what kind of knowledge he tries to reap from my mind. He could have been put up to this by the inn keeper or the pirates. I doubt Delbe has the mind to do it, but someone may have put him up to it. We will be weary of all of them now. Obi-Wan Kenobi must be of the dark side or he would not have pushed his way into my mind with me objecting to his intrusion every step of the way."
//Is that true? Did I reject it or willingly embrace his entry into my mind. Or was it the dark in Obi-Wan that caused me to so speedily welcome his unnatural mental link with me? //
Yes Padawan, we will keep an eye on the "little one", Obi-Wan Kenobi, who quite likely harbors the dark within him……."" TBC
PEACE ewen
Remember // denotes minds speech or mind thought. This one is long and depending on how it is received is how much incentive I will have to finish the next post. Ewen
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The two Jedi, master and apprentice trudged up the steep hill to meet Qui-Gon's old friend, Kerchuk, leader of the Movine tribe.
When their planet started to break up the Jedi were kind enough to find them a home here on this planet. They were and are cave dwellers with primitive living style. The steep hills of this planet suited them.
Jinn looked forward to their visit with them. He wanted to learn if there was any truth to what the inn keeper said about fighting between the young leader and the old one, Kerchuk.
"Master you have been terribly quiet today. Is there something wrong. I mean do you feel well?"
"Yes, I am more than well. The brisk walk is making me feel vibrant, more in touch with the living force."
"Well it does nothing for me but tires me out. I wish we would get there soon."
"We will soon enough Padawan. Soon enough."
Jinn was right of course the trek was almost over. Xanatos would have preferred it ended long ago. His feet hurt. He told his master his boots grew smaller for him but Jinn being the thrifty one urged his padawan to wear them for a little longer to get more use out of them.
Jinn was pleased to find a a spread of food set out for he and his padawan, fit for a king.
Jinn discussed what the innkeeper said and Kerchuk assured him that although there were squabbles that would break out occasionally, things went well with his people.
"Be leery of the man Master Jedi. He is not what he appears to be. Of course you need not know about it I suppose. You don't plan to have any more communication with him do you?"
"Well we might stay the night there on our return trip to our ship. We could find no place close to land. We landed, then walked out way here."
"Well we do thank you for you and the Jedi's concern. Send Master Yoda our regards. Now as for the inn keeper. It has been said he deals with pirates off the ocean a few miles away. There are rumors he is the main co-conspirator with the pirates to find homes for children that have been taken from their true homes. Slave trade, nasty business Master Jedi. I think if you stumble into his nest of wrongdoing he just might have the pirate friends of his do away with you. We see a lot up here Master Jedi. See a lot from these cliffs but say very little or nothing when it concerns the business of the pirates. Here let me show you."
Kerchuk led Master Jinn and Xani to the edge of one of the cliffs, where if you looked out over it, you could see the shoreline of the ocean as it grazed the edge of the land.
"There, right there is where they land. We see many people or other species being brought to the Inn. Some of them young, some very old and almost feeble. We however never see them in the city unless they work for someone. Indentured servants they are called but you and me, we know what they are. That's why we keep quiet up here being the outsiders and not from this world. We know our place. It's none of our business how many slaves are bought and sold out of the inn. Some buyers come from other planets when there are a big shipment of slaves. Like the time the boy came. The one you speak of."
It was not that Qui-Gon was not listening, he was. He hoped to relay the information to the temple and possibly get permission to investigate it once they took it up in front of the Senate on Coruscant, but the mention of Obi-Wan peaked his interest even more.
"You know when they brought Obi-Wan to the Inn."
"Yes about six months ago. Not long after we settled here. He was in rough shape he was too. No telling what "kind" of "abuse" he suffered from the pirates before he got here. I know the innkeeper to be cruel, but there are other things than painful cruelty that can suck a life out of those slaves. He was a good looking lad when he came. Last time I saw him I couldn't say that about him. The weight he has dropped and the overhaul condition of him,I wouldn't have recognized him had I not heard his name called. I was even there when they put the collar on him. Seemed to hurt him it did at first. He got sick and had some kind of seizure. They say he's a bit better now though."
"Who says?"
"We have friends on this planet who come up here and visit. Some of them have stayed that that very inn where the boy's lives, if you can call it that. Any way I have heard talk that he is not sick so much now. Does what he is told and if he doesn't he's beaten into unconsciousness sometimes. You helped us. Too bad the Jedi can't help that poor little one and the others brought here and sold. Shame it is indeed."
"The inn keeper told me that the Jedi missed Obi-Wan because we did not check this planet."
"Well if he came from this planet he is not from around here. I saw him get off the ship."
"To tell you the truth, I hope to be able to do something."
"Oh master not again. You always have such a way with these type of people.:"
"What type are they Xani? Sometimes you almost disappoint me with you lack of touch with the living force. Some are not as fortunate as you. Do you not want to help those too?"
"Well yes master, but the boy could probably never get a job. Maybe he is better off with food in his belly and a roof over his head."
"Not much food as I could tell padawan. We will stay the night here. We will survey the camp to insure everything is as it should be. In the morning we will head down the cliffs. I want to contact Yoda later tonight"
Jinn tried to keep his mind focused on the job at hand, helping these people start over again. He was successful at times and then he would let his mind wonder back to the waif of a boy who had suffered at the hands of the cruel inn keeper. Jinn hoped he could be able to expose the innkeeper for what he was, a slaver and find a place where Obi-Wan could live if he could not be sent back home.
//He should be able to return home. I am sure his family wonders where is or if he is alright.//
The drenching rain started again that evening. Jinn and Xanatos sat in their tent after a large last meal and watched the rain. There was little else to do. Most of the people had turned in for the night.
Jinn waited on a call from Master Yoda, and was relieved to finally get it. He had an idea and he wanted to share it with his former master.
"Master I have been anxious to speak to you. You have called later than normal."
"Problems here there had been. That took first priority ."
"Is everything alright?"
Jinn noticed the stress in the diminutive master's voice.
"Alright they are not. Need you back here right away I do."
Qui-Gon knew he would go if the temple was in trouble but he had very much wanted to stay because of the Kenobi child and the slavery ring.
"What has happened? Was the Temple attacked?"
"No, could have handled that better I think. Two of our padawans out in the city, kidnapped they were. Snatched right of the docks of Coruscant as they watched the fish harvested off the boats."
"Master I am sorry to interrupt you but this is important. Do you think the children could have been taken by slavers?"
"Think that exactly I do. A ship unknown the others on the dock landed there. Took the children they did to be sold into slavery."
"I may have found the missing padawans and the reason why the Kenobi child and I have such a close connection. Kenobi's fate was the same as our padawans. He was brought here by pirate slavers and now if I had to guess, I would say that the Jedi padawans will arrive here within a few days. "
"Think all this you do, how?"
I found out from Kerchuk, who by the way is doing well, that the innkeeper that has the force sensitive slave has connections with the pirates. The captured ones are brought here and I suppose auctioned off to highest bidder. Maybe this is why the force brought Obi-Wan and I together. I mean I think we can get the padawans back."
"Good idea you have Jinn. Afraid though you may be wrong about the boy. Force does not push a bond on two unless plans there are. I think this boy has more of link with you than you yourself realize. I can feel his mental aura in your mind, while Xanatos' bond grows weaker I think."
Qui-Gon knew the master was right about Xanatos. Since he left the inn, it had been hard to connect with his padawan.
"Are you saying the Kenobi's bond with me if indeed that is what it is, is strangling the training bond I have with my padawan. I can not have that Master Yoda."
"Know not what to do. Have never seen it before I have not, but true it is. This boy bonds with you as we speak and it grows stronger. Know this I do, two training bonds you have. One grows weaker as the other feeds from it.."
Yoda gave Qui-Gon some time for this to sink in. Although Jinn knew something was happening with he and Xani's bond and he felt the other bond forming, he tried to ignore it.. Now that Master Yoda was aware of it he could not ignore it any longer.
Yoda continued.
"Stay where you are, you will. Let me know if ship of captured beings arrives there. In the meantime, send a few masters to your aid I will. Procure a couple of rooms at the Inn. Make no mention of slavery. Also do nothing to tip your hand Jinn. The child for now is a slave and no matter what happens the Inn keeper and the Kenobi child must think everything is the same. If confrontation there is between the two, stand aside and ignore it. Imperative to your mission it is. Want Padawan Bant and Garen back I do, alive and well………………….."
Jinn discussed his plans with Kerchuk. He had to because he needed them to verify if anyone should ask that the Jedi are there to help his people set up an irrigation system for their crops. That was the reason he would give the inn keeper for their extended stay. Jinn only hoped the inn keeper would allow the Jedi to stay and not have any suspicion of him. He got the impression that the man was not all that intelligent and would not figure out what was going on. Once the pirates arrived it would be too late to have the Jedi leave. That would only increase any suspicion the Jedi had if they were indeed asked to leave after paying for their extended stay.
"Master I understand that we have to try to get our padawans back to the temple but what will you do with the others that are aboard ship."
"Quite simple Padawan, we will see that they reach their respective homes safely and speedily."
Qui-Gon studied his padawan a moment. It had always been hard to bond with this apprentice. As hard as he tried, the bond never strengthened over time as one would expect it too. Now with the new boy, Obi-Wan in the picture, the bond with Xanatos seem to evaporate hour by hour, leaving Qui-Gon to wonder of his current apprentice's sincerity and commitment to the Jedi order. That itself brought pain to the big master. Had he failed this apprentice in some way?
"What about the little vagabond boy at the inn?"
"Why should he be any different. I mean he must have a home; a family that wants him back."
"Well you do seem to have a preoccupation with him and he is a force sensitive. I thought maybe you planned to take him back to the temple with us."
"Whatever for Xanatos? You know very well he is too old to train. Even Master Yoda voiced the same sentiments."
"Master, even I can feel his immense power through the force and he has a force collar on. Can you imagine the level of midiclorians in his blood stream? I bet they might be equal to yours or Master Yoda's."
Jinn noted a touch of envy in the young man's voice. He hoped it was not jealousy for that was unbecoming to a Jedi. Had he begun to question everything about his padawan without rightful reason? This was not like the gentle giant of a master. Normally his loyalty to his padawan would be fierce and never ending. Now the opposite seemed true.
"Yes, well we might check his level just out of curiosity, but I assure you he can not be trained now, no matter how high his level is and how powerful he is. He will remain a private citizen not welcomed into the folds of the Jedi. Too bad we missed such a strong one."
"Well I am sure you and Master Yoda are right. He is too old to train and probably is lucky to be able to read a young child's book if it were placed in front of him. I have never heard of an illiterate Jedi."
Xanatos laughed with his remark. Jinn raised eyebrow and gave his padawan a perplexing look.
//The boy can think of the most non- essential things. Does he think our instructors at the temple could not take someone like Obi-Wan, so gifted in the force and teach him his book lessons in no time flat? //
Nothing more was said as they traveled to the inn.
Qui-Gon did however continue to try to think through why he felt so disconnected from his apprentice. What was even worse, the master did not feel badly about it, nor was he concerned enough to let it create worry in him.
Jinn felt a certain calm come over him when he first stepped on the property of the Inn. He could see Delbe, the inn keeper standing just outside the barn, pumping water for the farm animals. He looked again toward the barn to see the little Kenobi slave peak around the barn door. Jinn thought he saw a smile don the little one's face. If it was, it was the first time the boy expressed any hint of happiness. Just then the inn keeper saw the boy and went to where he was. Not long after, he closed the barn door. The big Jedi master thought he heard a stifled cry and then something fell or was knocked down..
Qui-Gon Jinn felt an overwhelming feeling of despair and pain. He had no doubt it came from Obi-Wan, although he was still unsure how.
Delbe, the inn keeper returned from the barn replacing the belt that held his trousers on. He smiled at the Jedi.
"Is this just a visit or do you wish a room for the night?"
"Well we would like to stay but for longer than a night. We need to stay and help the Movine people set up an irrigation line. There will be a couple of other Jedi joining us. Do you have a room for us for a week or two."
"Well I run an Inn Jinn and I don't turn money away."
Delbe remembered the pirates were due to arrive soon with another shipment of slaves. Nevertheless, he did not want the money from the Jedi to slip away even though the pirates paid well for a room and food.
"Look I will be having some..well business associates coming in a few days. We can handle our affairs out in the little office I have in the barn and I have more than enough room for you and them."
"You are a man with your hands in many dealings no doubt."
Delbe thought Jinn had just complimented him.
"Well I don't like to brag but I do have a mind for money. These friends of mine help people who want to relocate here. We how you say it find them jobs."
"Well besides being a good business man you do work for the charity of it. How commending."
"Yes, well like I said I do have my hands in a lot of projects. My wife is just about to put last-meal out. I only have a couple of other guests. How about we go in, you can wash up, and we can visit with the other guests while we share a quiet last-meal. Maybe I can coax my wife to join us."
"Sounds excellent. I can not wait to see what kind of culinary surprise she has for us tonight."
"UHN." The inn keeper was not as educated as he thought. The words Jinn spoke threw him for a moment..
He laughed when it finally occurred to him what Qui-Gon said.
"Oh you mean the food. Well I am not sure what she prepared, but you can bet it will good. Main reason I married her."
Xanatos spoke under his breath.
"No doubt."
Jinn shot his padawan a stern look. They had seemed to have lost their ability to mind speak. Well it had not been used and Jinn was worried about that. He did not want to try to explain this second bond issue with Xani, especially here with the Kenobi child so close. He did not want Xani to make a scene, which at times he was good for.
There were a total of six at the table for last meal. A minister, his wife, Jinn, Xani, and the inn keeper with his wife.
The food was placed on the table. All Obi-Wan had to do was pour drinks for them. He had washed up and stood off the side until he was needed. The minister was the first one to mention it. Jinn could not however question anything the innkeeper did with the boy.
"Will your son not being joining us sir?"
"My son? Don't curse me with such a title as his "father". He is not my son. He is… my... well he pays for a debt owed. I'll let him have some of the leftovers after he cleans the dining hall and the kitchen, not before. The boy gets lazy on me if you feed him before he does all his chores."
The minister's wife asked curiously about a debt by one so young.
"A child so young owes a debt. Of what kind?"
They didn't know this was a touchy situation with Delbe.
"Well it was a debt owed by his father. The boy "be" paying if off because his father is sick. Isn't that right boy?"
//Was this the same story he told me about Obi-Wan? What does he feed Obi-Wan if there is nothing left over?//
Jinn tried hard not to stare at the boy as he spoke. However Jinn found Obi-Wan to be a magnet for him. Jinn hung to every word and watched every movement, why the Jedi master was not sure.
Obi-Wan had his head hung down and his eyes fixed to the wooden floor. He knew better than to attempt a look at anyone at the table..
"Yes sir. I pay my father's debt."
"That's enough boy. I said that's enough. Now do you plan to settle in our community Reverend?"
The inn keeper shut Obi-Wan up very quickly.
"Oh we have a little longer on our trek and then we will be home."
"Well it's a good thing you stopped in and didn't try to travel. There is a big snow storm coming in tonight. And you, Master Jinn, how do you plan to lay pipes up there in the frozen ground?"
"We'll we are doing it a new way. We put the pipes above the ground."
"I'd like to see that when its done. Never seen it laid that way."
"Well you will have to come up with us once it completed."
The minister spoke again, he seemed fascinated by the Jedi's new way of doing things.
"I will have to remember that Master Jinn. I too have never seen pipes laid above the ground. But if you think of it, it makes sense doesn't it.?"
Jinn laughed, but it was fake.
"Well let's say it is easier on our backs if we don't have to dig ditches."
Everyone at the table laughed. Delbe noticed Master Jinn was out of tea.
"Kenobi, you have let the Jedi Master run out of tea. Bring him more now or I'll tie you to the bed post tonight and give you a tanning. Understand?"
Obi-Wan mumbled a "yes sir" and went to pour the Jedi master his tea.
The minister looked at the innkeeper.
"Is the boy that difficult that it actually requires physical descipline to keep him under control?"
"Can be, yes. Of course I manage to keep him in line. I more or less threaten more than I do."
He wanted to tone the fact that he abused Obi-Wan a great deal of the time and got a certain satisfaction doing it.
The minister's wife spoke again.
"Well I have two children at home and I find I am like you, I threaten more than I do."
//If you only knew how I suffer at his hands.//
Obi-Wan thought that as he listened to the conversation. Jinn jerked his head up to look at the boy. It was so obvious a movement on Qui-Gon's part that Delbe made a comment about it..
"Master Jinn is there something wrong with your tea? Did Kenobi not bring it hot enough for you?"
Delbe was not aware of what had transpired between the two. He thought Jinn's tea might be cold, certainly not the overwhelming fact that the Jedi master could here what his slave thought.
"No it's fine. Just the way I like it."
"Well the way you jerked your head up to glare at him, I thought for sure Kenobi done something wrong as usual. Can't have that now can we, Obi-Wan?"
//Does he know that belittling the child continually is mental abuse; just as bad sometimes as physical abuse?//
"No Master, we can't."
Jinn cringed with the word "master" spoken by the boy, as he addressed another. This was twice now the slave referred to Keeper Delbe as his master and it brought a feeling of unwarranted and unbecoming jealousy both times. However the fact that Qui-Gon had been able to hear Obi-Wan's comment through their fledgling link astounded him even further…….………. Qui-Gon and Xanatos said their good-byes to the minister and his wife. Qui-Gon looked forward to the tour of the farm and the barn. He wanted to know how much work Obi-Wan did and how he did it. He was aware he had a mission but he had to wait on the other Jedi and more importantly the pirate ship which was to arrive as soon as maybe tomorrow.
"Master Jinn are you sure I will not bore you with a tour of my farm? I mean we can forego that and go to the town and meet with the men you need to get your supplies from."
"If I may interrupt, my master is very in touch with the living force."
"Excuse me what does that mean in laymen's terms?"
"Sorry, that is a Jedi's way of saying he loves life and all things living, from plants to animals. He even holds a certain empathy for your servant, the Kenobi child."
//Now why did Xanatos bring Obi-Wan into this? He knows we are not to draw attention to our mission. To insinuate I am curious about the boy will not help us.//
"Is what the boy says true Master Jinn? I would not think and indentured servant would hold any kind of curiosity about him. Why the Kenobi boy? Of course you would hold a certain wonder about him since he is a force sensitive such as yourselves. I had almost forgotten. I guess because he has and never will be given the opportunity to use it.."
"Well as my apprentice pointed out I am in touch with all living things. Let's say the boy interests me. He's force sensitive yet does without it. I just wondered how that felt."
"Oh I thought you were worried that he was a literal slave. I assure you he is not. That is even against the law here. Now he is just paying back a debt and the collar was absolutely necessary. The boy was quite unruly when he was first brought here. But I assure you he has tamed his aggressive ways with the help of that collar and my strict regime I insist he follow or else. Have you ever worn a force collar?"
"No I can't say that I have. I just wondered if it bought pain or illness to one when he had to wear it."
Jinn knew that it did. He had lied.
What was worse, Xanatos knew very well his master lied. He could only gaze at his master in disbelief. It was the first time he had known Master Jinn to ever utter a lie. He knew perfectly well that they both had a force collar on them before. Xani do not give away his master's lie as he assumed it had some purpose. It would be interesting, he thought to find out just what Qui-Gon was fishing for. After all their mission was to free the padawans, not worry about some forgotten force sensitive kid that had nothing going for him.
"Let me assure you it does the boy no harm. Does it Kenobi?
Jinn looked up to see Obi-Wan just walk in the barn door.
Because Obi had not heard the question he could not answer so he just stood there. Evidently Delbe thought he took too long to answer the question, not knowing that he couldn't.
The boy's owner cupped his right hand and swung it around with all his force, catching Obi-Wan on the side of the head. Obi-Wan fell to the ground and seemed ashamed to rise. He did not offer to get up until Delbe yelled the order to do so or face the consequences.
Qui-Gon knew enough about the relationship to know that the consequences meant another beating of some kind. He fisted his hands and tucked them in the underside of his robe. It was a natural reaction to quell the anger for this man before him and not to inflame it.
The Inn keeper had to reach down and jerk the boy up on his feet.
Obi-Wan turned his face up for only the second time in the two visits of the Jedi. He let his ocean blue/green eyes, glistened with tears, cast a brief look at the Jedi master. Jinn seemed to know that the only thing that held Kenobi's tears in, was the fear of reprisal if he allowed to them to fall.
"I'm sorry I did not hear the question."
"Master Jinn wanted to know if the collar harmed you in anyway. I told him no, but I think he wanted to ask you."
Obi-Wan seemed to know what the answer was that he should give.
"No Master Jinn I am fine. It brings me no harm or illness "
He looked at Delbe to see if he answered right. The inn keeper nodded his head lightly.
Master Jinn experienced so much inner turmoil, yet at the same time, elation from Obi-Wan's spoken "Master Jinn". It seemed profoundly natural and very normal for this young one to call him "Master".
"Well the boy has got to feed my horses. He will be lucky to finish his work by nightfall, the way he has been slacking on his work this morning. Get on with you Obi and do as you are told.
"Obi?"
"That's a nickname he first used when he first came here. Was there anything else you wanted to ask him?"
//Obi, that name suits him.//
Delbe knew if Jinn was curious about other things then he wanted the boy beside him when he answered the questions.
"No I don't think so. Well there is one more thing. It has to do with the force he was blessed with."
"Go ahead and ask, then he does have to start his work."
"How long have you known you possessed the force Obi-Wan?"
"I think I have always known Master Jinn. But it was not until my mother lay dieing that she confirmed it. My father as well when he met his…"
Delbe grabbed the boy by the arm to stop him from carrying the conversation further.
"Master Jinn did not ask you about your parents. He asked about the force.. Now get on with ya boy get to your chores."
"Yes, your master is right, I have no further need of you boy. You should do what he says and not be derelict in you duty and obligations to him. Dlebe seems to provide all that you need and you in return should do what is expected of you."
Jinn wanted to wash his mouth after the lies he just spoke. Calling Delbe "Obi's" master left a bitter taste in his mouth. They were words better left unspoken by Master Jinn, for he held not truth in them whatsoever.. It was only a ruse so he could stay undercover.
Delbe seemed pleased that the boy was put in his place and cast aside by Master Jinn. It seemed Jinn had not true interest in the boy after all, thought Delbe.
//Did the boy intend to say "when his father met his "death"? Delbe insinuated the child's father was alive but ill and Obi-Wan worked for him for a debt owed by the father, interesting.//
Jinn wanted to appear that he lost interest in the boy so he wouldn't seem too curious about him. He waved his hand as if to dismiss the waif of a boy. When he did he felt a wave of shame and hurt from the connection with Obi-Wan, at being abruptly turned away. The slave Kenobi seemed to need Jinn's contact as much as Qui-Gon craved comfort from Obi-Wan's presence……………………..
Nothing of any eventful nature happened for two days. Then everything became a buzz of excitement. First of all the Jedi arrived, Master Tahl and Master Weis. The were masters to Bant and Garen respectively. They asked for and received the assignment because of their concern for their kidnapped apprentices. Qui-Gon suspected they would be the masters to come and help him with regaining possession of the children.
The four Jedi went up to the mountains to see their friend on the pretext they would survey and measure the land for the piping to be laid. Once up their they spent the night and left the next day, but not before they saw the pirate ship arrive. Five men dressed in regular street clothes descended from the ship and headed for the Inn. Or at least Jinn thought that is where they would find them once they trekked back to the inn themselves.
Sure enough once they returned, Jinn could see the men where in the bar section of the dining area having a gay old time with abundance of drink in front of them. They were eager to meet the Jedi. They had not realized yet that the children were Jedi, because the padawans were smart enough to keep it secret. The pirates thought they could fool the Jedi and that the dumb masters would assume they were just business men.
After the meeting between all of them and the head of the slaver's ring decided that the Jedi held no threat, Jinn and his group went to the dining area for mid-day meal. The others were content on drinking their nourishment.
Qui-Gon watched without being noticed as Obi-Wan ran from the bar to the dining area. He had been given the large task of serving both sides by himself. More than once he was cursed and yelled at for what the pirates saw as his slowness. In actuality the boy was quite speedy considering how many people he had to wait on. The Jedi waited patiently for their food. Unlike the pirates, they did not complain about the slow service. Nevertheless, that did not keep Delbe from reprimanding the boy for what he thought was his inability to keep up with his work.
Master Tahl had to grip Master Jinn's hand and hold him to keep him in place when one of the pirates tripped Kenobi as he carried a pitcher of beer. The room broke out in a thunderous roar of laughter at the boy who fell.
"Qui-Gon you know you can't interfere. Master Yoda orders remember. Bant and Garen's lives are at stake here. I know you hate to see the child abused in such a way, but think for a moment what will happen to the two apprentices held by those cut throat pirates if you interfere and our cover is blown."
Jinn pulled his hand away. He understood he could not say anything, but he did not like it.
What infuriated the master more than the child being tripped was the inn keeper's accusation that it was the boy's fault for being clumsy.
He watched as Delbe picked the boy up by his ear and threw him in the kitchen.
Jinn calmed down when he saw the child quickly return to clean the mess and continue serving.
Qui-Gon could see Obi-Wan pass Jinn an apologetic look.
//What would he have to be sorry for?//
//Because I am a clutch Master. I deserve to be punished.//
//You know that we can communicate back and forth telepathically?//
//Yes since the first you day you arrived. I just didn't know why or how? Do you know?//
//I am not sure, but we will have to find out won't we?//
//I don't guess it matters Master Jinn, I am here for a long time. //
//How long is that little one?//
//I think forever Master.//
Master Weiss drew Master Jinn's attention and Qui-Gon had to break his mental link with the little slave. However he was exhilarated after speaking to him. It was wrong. He should not have to let anyone intrude on he and Xanatos' bond. Jinn felt drawn to the boy; the magnetism he thought of it as before, seemed to multiply. He could not stop the desire to link with him.
Xanatos shot Master Jinn an almost knowing glare. He immediately got up and left the table but not before he shot daggers with his look to Obi-Wan. Kenobi saw it and seemed to understand it was because he had linked with the other boy's master and it did not set well with Xanatos.
Qui-Gon went up to he and his padawan's shared room not long after the boy left abruptly in anger. Jinn knew why he was angry and he dreaded the confrontation they would have once with Xanatos. It was necessary. He had decided to tell Xanatos of Obi-Wan but he suspected Xani already knew a great deal.
Xanatos lay in his bed with his back to the door. He heard his master enter but he didn't bother to say a word or even acknowledge the Jedi master's presence.
Jinn finally finished his shower and came out into the room.
"Did you plan to tell me Master?"
"What is it you think I should have told you Xani?"
"Qui-Gon I know you were holding a mental conversation with that little slave, Do you think me stupid master. I am not you know. I know something is happening to our bond and that you have formed some kind of bond with the boy. Do you deny it?"
"What you said, yes. I did not form a bond with him it just happened. I mean his intrusion was at first not wanted."
"Are you saying it is wanted now? How did it happen if you did not will it. Usually a bond is formed only with mutual consent and agreement. The boy may have wanted to bond because he wants out of his fate here, but you. You would break our bond for him? Have I done something to warrant being replaced?"
"No Xani. That's not it. I did not will it.I talked with Yoda and he has agreed. The boy can't be trained and I do not want another padawan. I had no hand in lessening our bond. It is the boy who bonds with me that is sucking the very life from our bond?"
"Are you saying even with a force collar on he can initiate his bond and destroy the bond you and I share?"
"That is exactly what I am saying. Even Master Yoda is not aware of anything like this happening and you know how long he has been a Jedi. I mean I will admit I am drawn to this boy but only because of the bond that forms without my permission or help. You have to believe me."
Xanatos knew that his master spoke the truth and that worried the padawan.
"Master you may think me jealous but I am not. Had you truly wanted him as your apprentice I would have stepped aside. I am aware that we are not as connected as we should be. I can not do anything to correct that. What concerns me is the child. Have you ever thought he is not from the side of the force that we are? Maybe there is dark in him. Maybe it was not by accident that the padawans were captured. Just maybe they know they have Jedi children and they have set their sights higher, for the most famous Master in the Jedi order, you."
Jinn dropped the data pad he held. Yes, he thought that had to be why this boy could overtake his mind and bond with him even though Jinn did nothing to encourage it. Xanatos had indeed stumbled onto the truth.
"Xanatos you are a genius. I will have to be careful. I also plan to talk to Master Yoda about this. You just may be right. Our bond is weak right now but I am sure we will find a way to break this boy's bond and ours will strengthen again, Until then I will shield from him. There is not telling what kind of knowledge he tries to reap from my mind. He could have been put up to this by the inn keeper or the pirates. I doubt Delbe has the mind to do it, but someone may have put him up to it. We will be weary of all of them now. Obi-Wan Kenobi must be of the dark side or he would not have pushed his way into my mind with me objecting to his intrusion every step of the way."
//Is that true? Did I reject it or willingly embrace his entry into my mind. Or was it the dark in Obi-Wan that caused me to so speedily welcome his unnatural mental link with me? //
Yes Padawan, we will keep an eye on the "little one", Obi-Wan Kenobi, who quite likely harbors the dark within him……."" TBC
PEACE ewen