Yoda left Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon to see what the guards had come up with. Some of them had gone out with a couple of the masters to see if Pernile might have hitched a ride with one of the local transports on Coruscant owned by a private citizen. He could not successfully access the transports belonging to the Jedi.
Jinn stood by Obi-Wan's bedside as he contemplated what he should do..
"Listen Obi-Wan if you are able to understand me. I have to ready some things at my apartment and talk with Xanatos. I will return after the healer, Master Yoda has arranged to see you has come in. I can't promise you can stay with me all the time, but until I decide where to search for Healer Pernile you are welcome back to your old home at least temporarily. That should make you feel better."
With the name Pernile voiced by Jinn, he thought he saw a grimace flash quickly a crossed Obi-Wan's face but just as quickly his features returned to the blank unknowing look he had since Qui-Gon entered his room.
Qui-Gon turned to go out and then with the same little tweaking to his mind as before on the ship, but very clearly he heard Obi-Wan's mental command.
//Please Master Qui-Gon take me with you.//
This time the sentence was a little longer but no less heartbreaking than the one Jinn heard begging the master to help him while on the ship, but Jinn had not gotten there in time.
His hand was on the door knob and a part of him wanted to just turn it, step out, and walk away, but the other half of his soul wanted never to do anything that would not comfort and bring the boy a bit of solace.
The compassion he felt for this child overwhelmed him and he could do nothing but return to his bedside and set down in the chair.
//I will just have to wait until the healer checks him over then he'll have to come with me. I can only hope Xanatos understands this for, "by the force", I do not. //
As Jinn adjusted his robe he looked up to to see what he might have imagined was a tiny smile try to appear on Obi-Wan. He was not sure for it happened so quickly before the stone faced gaze reappeared on the boy and he turned to look out the window; his only touch with reality and the outside world now.
######
Qui-Gon was finally able to get the child back to the safety of his apartment and settled on the common room sofa. It had not been done without problems trying to navigate through the halls with Obi-Wan not one step from his side and holding on to Jinn's Jedi robe with a death grip.
Once in the little flat, Qui-Gon was unsuccessful in getting Obi-Wan in his room. The child did follow Master Jinn to his bedroom, but when he turned to leave Obi-Wan, he got up and latched onto the Jedi robe again and refused to release his hold on the master.
Qui-Gon had hoped to deposit Obi-Wan, hidden in the bedroom until he could at least explain this to Xani, without the presence of the child. //It might make it easier to discuss Obi alone with Xani.// That would not happen though. He was forced to take Obi-Wan back into the common room with him.
Obi-Wan sat as if on display in the common room. He had made one curious movement. He went over to the large bay window in the common room and settled himself on a giant floor cushion. It was the place he normally watched the world pass by. He became engrossed again looking out. He seemed almost content with being at his usual spot.
Jinn went to make tea but once in the kitchen opted for flavored tea for Obi-Wan and a very strong "enough to stand up and walk" cup of cha. He needed the added stimulant, he suspected to deal with his occasionally hot headed padawan.
Qui-Gon was in the middle of trying to coax the child to hold the cup and drink his tea. He would drink small sips if Jinn held it up for him. It was as if the boy forgot how to do the most basic of things, holding and drinking his own tea was probably only one of many things he could not perform on his own. Qui-Gon thought with retraining he would be able to more assist himself with his everyday living. However the quandary of it was what would Jinn do until then, especially if he wanted to go in search of Pernile?
When Master Jinn went to set Obi-Wan's tea down and pick his steaming hot drink up he almost ran into his rightful padawan, Xanatos Crion. He had not felt his presence in the room. Nothing of his force signature availed itself to the big master, quite unusual for master and apprentice. However nothing of late had been normal about the bond if they indeed had a bond thought Qui-Gon.
Xanatos stood unmoving in the center of the room. Jinn could not get a feel for what his apprentice thought. Was it anger or disgust that reared itself in Xanatos? Jinn felt rolling emotional turmoil in the room. It had always been there, possibly because Obi-Wan felt the same way but now the aura through the force eluding to distress from one or more of the force sensitives present, had grown to mammoth proportions.
"Xanatos I had hoped to explain this to you in private."
"Why didn't you master? Did he tell you not to spend anytime with me a lone. Does he fear that just maybe our bond will reconnect itself. I doubt it."
[Xani shouts to Obi-Wan.] Do you here that Obi-Wan Kenobi?? I think you have been successful in completely annihilating the already pathetic bond that Master and I once shared."
Xanatos then turned back to his Master to continue speaking with him.
" Do you feel any of our bond master? Is there even glint of what we once shared still battling to stay claim on it's rightful place within you mind?. You were well aware our link was not as strong as a normal training bond between master and apprentice from the beginning then this.."little Obi" had to come into our lives."
"Listen Xanatos I would like to explain something to you concerning Obi. He .. Well he .."
"What is it master? Has he taken over the household? Does he literally own your mind now? He does not own mine. I tell you what, I am going to Knight Gayron's apartment. He invited me anytime things got too difficult. See Master people are starting to notice I have been cast aside for this one. You and Obi-Wan enjoy your tea or whatever. Call me when you decide what you wanted to tell me and then say it. Personally I don't want to come home…back here… until the boy has found another place to live. Let's see if you even have the courage and outright guts to send him away."
Jinn could not explain and he did not want to make a scene in front of Obi-Wan. Xanatos walked out the door slamming it behind him. He had not given his mentor and master a chance to go over all that had happened to the child.
//He begrudges me caring for a child that could not possibly replace him as my apprentice, unless he can make very long strides in his recovery. Then I would have to be willing for Obi-Wan to be apprenticed to me. Xanatos has jumped to too many conclusions. I'll let him cool off before I attempt to speak with him again. Maybe being with the young Knight is good for him right now. He can vent his anger somewhere other than on me or Obi-Wan.//
Jinn glanced back to see the former slave fast asleep on the body pillow laying in front of the window. He took his robe from where it hung and covered the boy up. He welcomed time to himself without either boy to think things through and to later find out what Yoda had come up with concerning Pernile's whereabouts.
//Maybe I should meditate and see if I can get a handle on my life which seems to have taken a downward turn when it comes to Xanatos and Obi-Wan.//
Yoda realized that Master Jinn might have difficulty coming to his office to discuss Pernile. Once he had pertinent information for the favored Qui-Gon, Master Yoda rushed to his place.
"Have news I do Master Jinn."
Jinn placed his forefinger to his lips to signal Master Yoda to lower his voice. He pointed to the window and Yoda saw the boy sleeping comfortably on the big pillow. Jinn ushered the master to the kitchen and quietly closed the door.
" You have news of Pernile? Do you know where he is?"
Jinn did not think Master Yoda could have possibly come up with his whereabouts this quickly and without putting a signal knight or master out to track him down.
"Just so happens, stroke of luck we have had. Knight Diener returning from mission he was on public transport. While waiting at the landing port on Telos, he saw Master Healer Pernile disembark from a public ship and hail a hover taxi. He knew of the lockdown and the alert. He followed him he did. There now he is. Told him I have not to attempt anything. Make things worse he could."
"But master if he waits and Pernile transfuses Obi-Wan's blood then all will be lost to us."
"Listen Jinn you will. Knight, young he is. First solo mission he returns from. Not experienced enough. Need help he does. Botch this job I would not want him to do. To go important to you and the boy it is."
"I can see how it is of the utmost importance to Obi-Wan but except for the avenging of Obi-Wan's predicament, I don't see how it is important to my actual welfare to have the boy's blood back.
Jinn was very concerned for the child and he did want him to recover, but the way Master Yoda stated it "important to both," left a chill in Jinn. He felt the Master Yoda meant something very precise when he said it was important to Qui-Gon.
"In touch with the force you have not stayed lately Master Jinn. Hone in on the force you should and know you will your life changes as we speak. Another mysterious bond at this temple forming . Only this one is not unwanted and quite possible of mutual consent it is."
" Xani and Gayron."
It was just a mere whisper from Jinn. Had Master Yoda not been looking directly at the tall master's face, he would not have known what he said. The words might not have been actually spoken out loud. Yoda himself was not certain, the words could have been just mouthed and he read his former padwan's lips.
Once Qui-Gon reached for the force for guidance, he felt the fledgling bond forming between his padawan and Knight Gayron, but he did not feel any objections from either apprentice or the young knight to the bond.
"What is this master some kind of betrayal on Xani's part?"
"No more betrayal on his part than it is on yours, Qui-Gon. Provincial you are my padawan. Outgrow it you should. "
"If I have an ounce of provinciality in me, it is your doing."
"Narrow minded or "set in in my ways" I have never been accused of, Qui-Gon and you will not do it now. Reach further to the force you will and see nothing sinister or betraying about the bond that Knight Gayron and Xani seemed to have started. Through the force it was given and honor it the Jedi council will be forced to do if it forms completely it does. To stop their bond is to do away with the boy, Kenobi. Before I send you to help Knight Dierner in his quest for Pernile's capture, think you should what you want. Keep the boy then possibly lose your apprentice you will."
"How could you or the force ask me to do such a thing? I mean I want to keep my apprentice, yet I want no more harm to befall Obi-Wan. Why would the force dictate to me I must choose one over the other?"
"Force knows your heart I think more than you do. Seek within the force and you will find the truth about yourself Master Jinn for I will not point it out though know it also I do."
"No, I disagree. I think I know what you want me to do and I am not all that sure the force wants me to do what you think is right. Master Yoda, it would not be masterly-like to throw my padawan away, just give up on him. I am not sure there will not be some kind of censure or sanction placed on my head by the council if I cast Xanatos away in favor of this boy even if he recovers fully and I could take him as my padawan. Then of course you forget that he is too old to train. You have stated as much yourself."
"Censure you will not be if the force demands this joining. The council will see that, but still your decision it is. Also if the force deems Obi-Wan Kenobi be trained then who am I or you to countermand the force itself?"
"If it is my decision, then let me handle it in the way I wish too and decide what I also wish."
"Running out of time Obi-Wan Kenobi is. Find Pernile first you will, then must know in your mind and heart which boy you want for apprentice you do. Now I leave you to pack. Go too Knight Dierner you will."
"Master what will I do with Obi-Wan and I need to talk with Xanatos before I leave?"
"The boy must go with you he will. Need someone to watch him, send someone I will with you. Xanatos still your padawan he is and by your side he shall be. Knight Gayron needs most field experience he does. Now pack and ready Obi-Wan. Leave in half an hour you will. Notify Xanatos and Knight Gayron I will."
Yoda walked out with the pompous all-knowing attitude he walked into the Jinn's home with.
Jinn thought this idea of him forming a training bond and taking Obi as his apprentice if he recovered was ludicrous. He also thought it was incredibly bad idea to take Xani and Obi-Wan together on a mission along with the knight who had managed to steal his apprentice by forming a bond with Xani. Jinn was not sure he could be trusted and even worse he feared the outcome of putting both boys together on a transport ship.
############
A twenty-four hour trip and the Jedi would be on Telos, Xani's home planet.
Back in Xani's mind he had a desire to visit with his father once there. He knew Jedi should not crave the comfort of their families, but on occasion they were allowed to visit their home world and their family members.
Gayron knew of the desire of Xanatos but since the bond between master and apprentice lay dormant for now Qui-Gon had not knowledge of it.
Jinn had been busy getting Obi-Wan aboard and then settled on the ship. Not an easy task when Obi-Wan would refuse to loosen the hold he had on Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan seemed to fear everyone now.
//No wonder!!,// thought the big master. //So many strangers have abused him in so many different ways. Once, he even thought me capable of harming him.//
Qui-Gon thought back to when Obi-Wan was terrified he intended to used the belt on him. What the pirates did to him tore down any self-confidence he had and then Master Healer Pernile, a Jedi to be trusted, had betrayed what trust the JedI had managed to build up and took away Obi-Wan's comprehension of anything.
Qui-Gon noticed Xani walk up to him on the ship.
"Master, I mean Qui-Gon, Knight Gayron has us in orbit now. Is there anything else you wish of us?"
"Xanatos I hate to ask this of you but I would like to know if your father would be willing to house us while we are on Telos. I need a safe place to leave Obi-Wan and I don't think a run-down hotel would be that place."
Xani was delighted. Master Jinn had finally said something that the padawan did not object too. He very much wanted to visit his father to get some insight on what he thought about what Xanatos contemplated doing.
I// want to renounce Master Jinn as my master and ask if Knight Gayron can take over my apprenticeship. Even if Obi-Wan does not return to normal, I don't think Qui-Gon and I can recapture what has been lost between us and our bond.//
Xanatos could not help but realize he became more and more hesitant to call the Jedi master "his master". It just didn't feel right anymore…….
Qui-Gon sat on a long padded bench that lined one side of the pilot's section of the ship. In front of him sat Xani and Knight Gayron in the pilot and co-pilot's seat. Obi-Wan laid stretched out with his head nestled in the Jedi's lap sound asleep. It was not a welcome sleep for Obi-Wan and Jinn did not know how the child would react when he awoke from the force induced sleep Jinn put him in. Obi-Wan had let his objections be known by his flailing arms and kicking legs, but never a word uttered. There had a few grunts loud sighs, but no words from the little former slave. He had become too difficult and demandingly possessive for Master Jinn to deal with, not even allowing the master to check on the status of their trip. Jinn had no choice but to induce a force sleep on the former slave.
While allowing Obi-Wan to settle in a deeper sleep Master Jinn had time to observe Xani and the young knight at least from the back of them. He could not help but feel a little jealously and anger toward the man who tried to steal his padawan right out form under his nose.
//Face it Jinn you have not been a very good master to Xani, or you would have found a way to reconnect with him instead of allowing this little one come between you. What are you doing. The council will ask you that one old man and you had better have an answer for it. //
Jinn batted a conversation between him and his subconscious as he watched the knight and Xanatos while they cheerily held a conversation between each other, something the master had not been able to successfully do and with such harmony as Gayron had managed in a long time. Jinn did not know who to blame, himself, Xanatos, or the knight Gayron himself for allowing the bond to form. Jinn knew had he and Xanatos shared a strong bond this could not have happened to either of them. Now that it had Jinn thought there had to be a way to counteract the failing bond they had and then literally rip apart the fledgling bonds of Obi-Wan to him and Gayron to Xani.
//One minute I think I have to always be with this child here and then the next I have anger for him for stifling my bond with Xanatos. I am not sure I am willing to just give up on Xani and our bond. It is not nature to just give in without some kind of battle defending what is mind. //
The possession of Xani was not physical like a slave, it was parental feelings he had for the boy or once thought he and Xani both mutually shared.
Jinn was indeed going back and forth for now he was convinced he and Xani should stay together.
That made Obi-Wan and Gayron not needed or wanted on this trip Jinn crept back into the old feeling of betrayal and of being tricked by the boy who juts moments ago, he couldn't harbor a bad thought about.
Jinn left Obi-Wan on the bench asleep, while he went forward and had Xani comm his father to notify them of their arrival. He heard Xanatos talking to his father and he explained that a young Knight returning from his first mission was fortunate enough to bag the runaway Jedi.
.
Xanatos did not realize how false his words would be. Knight Diener's "fortunate" spotting of Pernile would very soon turn "unfortunate". Standing watch over Healer Pernile would be the last official service the young knight would ever do for the Jedi. He would be one with the force before Jinn could arrive.
All the arrangements were made. They would stay at the De' Crion home and be the guest of Xanatos' father. While not a mansion, the home was exceedingly comfortable. Xanatos' father had been quite successful when the diamond mines were first discovered. He got in quick and out just as quickly making his livelihood now from the riches that befell him on just one mine. Xanatos had grown up quite differently than Obi-Wan had.
The former slave had a hard life before enslavement then harder still when his parents were killed and he was enslaved.
Now Jinn did not know if the boy would even have a life to better himself if this damage to him could not be corrected. He tapped his fingers on the console to show his impatience. He also grew weary of watching Xani interact so willingly and trouble free with Gayron. He waited until his apprentice went to the back to fetch them drinks to say anything to the knight.
"Do you think just to snatch my apprentice from out from under my nose with me standing by and saying nothing about it too me? Did you think I would not find out?"
"Master Jinn I did not initiate this bond and I believe neither did Xani. If he did, what of it? It has been clear to everyone at the temple since Obi-Wan arrived that Xanatos has been cast aside in favor of the little slave. Now I try not to past judgment on you. Because you are a master to my knighthood I have to honor your station within the Jedi order, but what I don't have to honor is the way you have treated Xanatos Crion in favor of this little homeless one back there. He can't be trained. Even Master Yoda said it, yet you hold to him as if he is already your apprentice. So you see Master Jinn I don't see where it is Xanatos or I that are in the wrong here.. Please don't take this as disrespect to a Jedi master, however I feel you are the one who has wronged Xanatos not the other way around. Oh! by the way, it did take you a very long time to "know" about our bond too long for a bonded master and apprentice if they were truly bonded."
Obi-Wan woke up and seemed angry with Master Jinn for the force induced nap the master put him. Nevertheless the child still continued to cling to the master not willing to let go of the robe even as they disembarked from the ship and headed for Xanatos' family home.
"Please don't take this personally Master Jinn, but I truly don't see how you plan to go help Knight Dierner when you have Obi-Wan literally on you coat tail. I mean you can not go into any kind of battle with the boy."
"The "boy" as you call him will have to stay at the De' Crion home. Xanatos, if necessary will stay with him."
"Master I think I should go help."
Xanatos clearly did not like the prospect of being left behind to baby-sit or for any reason.
"Do you think that is fair Master Jinn to make your padawan stay and baby-sit the boy you would replace him with in a heartbeat if given a chance. If you valued his apprenticeship to you, you would not leave him behind, he would be right by your side as is his rightful place."
"Need I remain you Knight Gayron who you are addressing. I am a senior master, well above your knighthood status. To question my authority over my own padawan would not be wise if you expect to keep your knighthood within the Jedi. For I can assure you I can see to it, you are swiftly terminated if you question my actions again."
Jinn lowered his voice which was almost boisterous during his conversation, practically to a point of shouting. He could feel Kenobi tremble with fear over the two having a confrontation. Jinn did not know if he feared it because it was about him or that the child just could not stand the arguing in front of him.
Either way, Jinn tried to send comfort to the child but as of late, he was not sure if Obi-Wan's mind had the capabilities of always hearing or feeling him through the mental link with him.. He was sure though he made a mental connectiom when the boy knew what he said in the med unit about leaving him and about his condition.
"Now if you are finished Gayron, we will continue to the De'Crion home. I want to drop off Xani and Obi-Wan there and go directly to where Knight Dierner is."
Knight Diener bowed slightly to the head master of the mission.
"Forgive me for overstepping my boundary and you are right, we do need to proceed immediately to the knight's aid. Xani you will have to a stay at your home with Obi-Wan, understood?"
Jinn didn't want to carry the argument further like some jealous woman, but Gayron spoke to his apprentice as if he were Xanatos' master and not Jinn. Jinn got a very uncomfortable feeling and thought that if Gayron did not voice the command to stay there then Xani would have been unwilling too. It seemed as if Xanatos now took his guidance and direction from Gayron instead of Jinn………………………
Jinn stood by Obi-Wan's bedside as he contemplated what he should do..
"Listen Obi-Wan if you are able to understand me. I have to ready some things at my apartment and talk with Xanatos. I will return after the healer, Master Yoda has arranged to see you has come in. I can't promise you can stay with me all the time, but until I decide where to search for Healer Pernile you are welcome back to your old home at least temporarily. That should make you feel better."
With the name Pernile voiced by Jinn, he thought he saw a grimace flash quickly a crossed Obi-Wan's face but just as quickly his features returned to the blank unknowing look he had since Qui-Gon entered his room.
Qui-Gon turned to go out and then with the same little tweaking to his mind as before on the ship, but very clearly he heard Obi-Wan's mental command.
//Please Master Qui-Gon take me with you.//
This time the sentence was a little longer but no less heartbreaking than the one Jinn heard begging the master to help him while on the ship, but Jinn had not gotten there in time.
His hand was on the door knob and a part of him wanted to just turn it, step out, and walk away, but the other half of his soul wanted never to do anything that would not comfort and bring the boy a bit of solace.
The compassion he felt for this child overwhelmed him and he could do nothing but return to his bedside and set down in the chair.
//I will just have to wait until the healer checks him over then he'll have to come with me. I can only hope Xanatos understands this for, "by the force", I do not. //
As Jinn adjusted his robe he looked up to to see what he might have imagined was a tiny smile try to appear on Obi-Wan. He was not sure for it happened so quickly before the stone faced gaze reappeared on the boy and he turned to look out the window; his only touch with reality and the outside world now.
######
Qui-Gon was finally able to get the child back to the safety of his apartment and settled on the common room sofa. It had not been done without problems trying to navigate through the halls with Obi-Wan not one step from his side and holding on to Jinn's Jedi robe with a death grip.
Once in the little flat, Qui-Gon was unsuccessful in getting Obi-Wan in his room. The child did follow Master Jinn to his bedroom, but when he turned to leave Obi-Wan, he got up and latched onto the Jedi robe again and refused to release his hold on the master.
Qui-Gon had hoped to deposit Obi-Wan, hidden in the bedroom until he could at least explain this to Xani, without the presence of the child. //It might make it easier to discuss Obi alone with Xani.// That would not happen though. He was forced to take Obi-Wan back into the common room with him.
Obi-Wan sat as if on display in the common room. He had made one curious movement. He went over to the large bay window in the common room and settled himself on a giant floor cushion. It was the place he normally watched the world pass by. He became engrossed again looking out. He seemed almost content with being at his usual spot.
Jinn went to make tea but once in the kitchen opted for flavored tea for Obi-Wan and a very strong "enough to stand up and walk" cup of cha. He needed the added stimulant, he suspected to deal with his occasionally hot headed padawan.
Qui-Gon was in the middle of trying to coax the child to hold the cup and drink his tea. He would drink small sips if Jinn held it up for him. It was as if the boy forgot how to do the most basic of things, holding and drinking his own tea was probably only one of many things he could not perform on his own. Qui-Gon thought with retraining he would be able to more assist himself with his everyday living. However the quandary of it was what would Jinn do until then, especially if he wanted to go in search of Pernile?
When Master Jinn went to set Obi-Wan's tea down and pick his steaming hot drink up he almost ran into his rightful padawan, Xanatos Crion. He had not felt his presence in the room. Nothing of his force signature availed itself to the big master, quite unusual for master and apprentice. However nothing of late had been normal about the bond if they indeed had a bond thought Qui-Gon.
Xanatos stood unmoving in the center of the room. Jinn could not get a feel for what his apprentice thought. Was it anger or disgust that reared itself in Xanatos? Jinn felt rolling emotional turmoil in the room. It had always been there, possibly because Obi-Wan felt the same way but now the aura through the force eluding to distress from one or more of the force sensitives present, had grown to mammoth proportions.
"Xanatos I had hoped to explain this to you in private."
"Why didn't you master? Did he tell you not to spend anytime with me a lone. Does he fear that just maybe our bond will reconnect itself. I doubt it."
[Xani shouts to Obi-Wan.] Do you here that Obi-Wan Kenobi?? I think you have been successful in completely annihilating the already pathetic bond that Master and I once shared."
Xanatos then turned back to his Master to continue speaking with him.
" Do you feel any of our bond master? Is there even glint of what we once shared still battling to stay claim on it's rightful place within you mind?. You were well aware our link was not as strong as a normal training bond between master and apprentice from the beginning then this.."little Obi" had to come into our lives."
"Listen Xanatos I would like to explain something to you concerning Obi. He .. Well he .."
"What is it master? Has he taken over the household? Does he literally own your mind now? He does not own mine. I tell you what, I am going to Knight Gayron's apartment. He invited me anytime things got too difficult. See Master people are starting to notice I have been cast aside for this one. You and Obi-Wan enjoy your tea or whatever. Call me when you decide what you wanted to tell me and then say it. Personally I don't want to come home…back here… until the boy has found another place to live. Let's see if you even have the courage and outright guts to send him away."
Jinn could not explain and he did not want to make a scene in front of Obi-Wan. Xanatos walked out the door slamming it behind him. He had not given his mentor and master a chance to go over all that had happened to the child.
//He begrudges me caring for a child that could not possibly replace him as my apprentice, unless he can make very long strides in his recovery. Then I would have to be willing for Obi-Wan to be apprenticed to me. Xanatos has jumped to too many conclusions. I'll let him cool off before I attempt to speak with him again. Maybe being with the young Knight is good for him right now. He can vent his anger somewhere other than on me or Obi-Wan.//
Jinn glanced back to see the former slave fast asleep on the body pillow laying in front of the window. He took his robe from where it hung and covered the boy up. He welcomed time to himself without either boy to think things through and to later find out what Yoda had come up with concerning Pernile's whereabouts.
//Maybe I should meditate and see if I can get a handle on my life which seems to have taken a downward turn when it comes to Xanatos and Obi-Wan.//
Yoda realized that Master Jinn might have difficulty coming to his office to discuss Pernile. Once he had pertinent information for the favored Qui-Gon, Master Yoda rushed to his place.
"Have news I do Master Jinn."
Jinn placed his forefinger to his lips to signal Master Yoda to lower his voice. He pointed to the window and Yoda saw the boy sleeping comfortably on the big pillow. Jinn ushered the master to the kitchen and quietly closed the door.
" You have news of Pernile? Do you know where he is?"
Jinn did not think Master Yoda could have possibly come up with his whereabouts this quickly and without putting a signal knight or master out to track him down.
"Just so happens, stroke of luck we have had. Knight Diener returning from mission he was on public transport. While waiting at the landing port on Telos, he saw Master Healer Pernile disembark from a public ship and hail a hover taxi. He knew of the lockdown and the alert. He followed him he did. There now he is. Told him I have not to attempt anything. Make things worse he could."
"But master if he waits and Pernile transfuses Obi-Wan's blood then all will be lost to us."
"Listen Jinn you will. Knight, young he is. First solo mission he returns from. Not experienced enough. Need help he does. Botch this job I would not want him to do. To go important to you and the boy it is."
"I can see how it is of the utmost importance to Obi-Wan but except for the avenging of Obi-Wan's predicament, I don't see how it is important to my actual welfare to have the boy's blood back.
Jinn was very concerned for the child and he did want him to recover, but the way Master Yoda stated it "important to both," left a chill in Jinn. He felt the Master Yoda meant something very precise when he said it was important to Qui-Gon.
"In touch with the force you have not stayed lately Master Jinn. Hone in on the force you should and know you will your life changes as we speak. Another mysterious bond at this temple forming . Only this one is not unwanted and quite possible of mutual consent it is."
" Xani and Gayron."
It was just a mere whisper from Jinn. Had Master Yoda not been looking directly at the tall master's face, he would not have known what he said. The words might not have been actually spoken out loud. Yoda himself was not certain, the words could have been just mouthed and he read his former padwan's lips.
Once Qui-Gon reached for the force for guidance, he felt the fledgling bond forming between his padawan and Knight Gayron, but he did not feel any objections from either apprentice or the young knight to the bond.
"What is this master some kind of betrayal on Xani's part?"
"No more betrayal on his part than it is on yours, Qui-Gon. Provincial you are my padawan. Outgrow it you should. "
"If I have an ounce of provinciality in me, it is your doing."
"Narrow minded or "set in in my ways" I have never been accused of, Qui-Gon and you will not do it now. Reach further to the force you will and see nothing sinister or betraying about the bond that Knight Gayron and Xani seemed to have started. Through the force it was given and honor it the Jedi council will be forced to do if it forms completely it does. To stop their bond is to do away with the boy, Kenobi. Before I send you to help Knight Dierner in his quest for Pernile's capture, think you should what you want. Keep the boy then possibly lose your apprentice you will."
"How could you or the force ask me to do such a thing? I mean I want to keep my apprentice, yet I want no more harm to befall Obi-Wan. Why would the force dictate to me I must choose one over the other?"
"Force knows your heart I think more than you do. Seek within the force and you will find the truth about yourself Master Jinn for I will not point it out though know it also I do."
"No, I disagree. I think I know what you want me to do and I am not all that sure the force wants me to do what you think is right. Master Yoda, it would not be masterly-like to throw my padawan away, just give up on him. I am not sure there will not be some kind of censure or sanction placed on my head by the council if I cast Xanatos away in favor of this boy even if he recovers fully and I could take him as my padawan. Then of course you forget that he is too old to train. You have stated as much yourself."
"Censure you will not be if the force demands this joining. The council will see that, but still your decision it is. Also if the force deems Obi-Wan Kenobi be trained then who am I or you to countermand the force itself?"
"If it is my decision, then let me handle it in the way I wish too and decide what I also wish."
"Running out of time Obi-Wan Kenobi is. Find Pernile first you will, then must know in your mind and heart which boy you want for apprentice you do. Now I leave you to pack. Go too Knight Dierner you will."
"Master what will I do with Obi-Wan and I need to talk with Xanatos before I leave?"
"The boy must go with you he will. Need someone to watch him, send someone I will with you. Xanatos still your padawan he is and by your side he shall be. Knight Gayron needs most field experience he does. Now pack and ready Obi-Wan. Leave in half an hour you will. Notify Xanatos and Knight Gayron I will."
Yoda walked out with the pompous all-knowing attitude he walked into the Jinn's home with.
Jinn thought this idea of him forming a training bond and taking Obi as his apprentice if he recovered was ludicrous. He also thought it was incredibly bad idea to take Xani and Obi-Wan together on a mission along with the knight who had managed to steal his apprentice by forming a bond with Xani. Jinn was not sure he could be trusted and even worse he feared the outcome of putting both boys together on a transport ship.
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A twenty-four hour trip and the Jedi would be on Telos, Xani's home planet.
Back in Xani's mind he had a desire to visit with his father once there. He knew Jedi should not crave the comfort of their families, but on occasion they were allowed to visit their home world and their family members.
Gayron knew of the desire of Xanatos but since the bond between master and apprentice lay dormant for now Qui-Gon had not knowledge of it.
Jinn had been busy getting Obi-Wan aboard and then settled on the ship. Not an easy task when Obi-Wan would refuse to loosen the hold he had on Qui-Gon. Obi-Wan seemed to fear everyone now.
//No wonder!!,// thought the big master. //So many strangers have abused him in so many different ways. Once, he even thought me capable of harming him.//
Qui-Gon thought back to when Obi-Wan was terrified he intended to used the belt on him. What the pirates did to him tore down any self-confidence he had and then Master Healer Pernile, a Jedi to be trusted, had betrayed what trust the JedI had managed to build up and took away Obi-Wan's comprehension of anything.
Qui-Gon noticed Xani walk up to him on the ship.
"Master, I mean Qui-Gon, Knight Gayron has us in orbit now. Is there anything else you wish of us?"
"Xanatos I hate to ask this of you but I would like to know if your father would be willing to house us while we are on Telos. I need a safe place to leave Obi-Wan and I don't think a run-down hotel would be that place."
Xani was delighted. Master Jinn had finally said something that the padawan did not object too. He very much wanted to visit his father to get some insight on what he thought about what Xanatos contemplated doing.
I// want to renounce Master Jinn as my master and ask if Knight Gayron can take over my apprenticeship. Even if Obi-Wan does not return to normal, I don't think Qui-Gon and I can recapture what has been lost between us and our bond.//
Xanatos could not help but realize he became more and more hesitant to call the Jedi master "his master". It just didn't feel right anymore…….
Qui-Gon sat on a long padded bench that lined one side of the pilot's section of the ship. In front of him sat Xani and Knight Gayron in the pilot and co-pilot's seat. Obi-Wan laid stretched out with his head nestled in the Jedi's lap sound asleep. It was not a welcome sleep for Obi-Wan and Jinn did not know how the child would react when he awoke from the force induced sleep Jinn put him in. Obi-Wan had let his objections be known by his flailing arms and kicking legs, but never a word uttered. There had a few grunts loud sighs, but no words from the little former slave. He had become too difficult and demandingly possessive for Master Jinn to deal with, not even allowing the master to check on the status of their trip. Jinn had no choice but to induce a force sleep on the former slave.
While allowing Obi-Wan to settle in a deeper sleep Master Jinn had time to observe Xani and the young knight at least from the back of them. He could not help but feel a little jealously and anger toward the man who tried to steal his padawan right out form under his nose.
//Face it Jinn you have not been a very good master to Xani, or you would have found a way to reconnect with him instead of allowing this little one come between you. What are you doing. The council will ask you that one old man and you had better have an answer for it. //
Jinn batted a conversation between him and his subconscious as he watched the knight and Xanatos while they cheerily held a conversation between each other, something the master had not been able to successfully do and with such harmony as Gayron had managed in a long time. Jinn did not know who to blame, himself, Xanatos, or the knight Gayron himself for allowing the bond to form. Jinn knew had he and Xanatos shared a strong bond this could not have happened to either of them. Now that it had Jinn thought there had to be a way to counteract the failing bond they had and then literally rip apart the fledgling bonds of Obi-Wan to him and Gayron to Xani.
//One minute I think I have to always be with this child here and then the next I have anger for him for stifling my bond with Xanatos. I am not sure I am willing to just give up on Xani and our bond. It is not nature to just give in without some kind of battle defending what is mind. //
The possession of Xani was not physical like a slave, it was parental feelings he had for the boy or once thought he and Xani both mutually shared.
Jinn was indeed going back and forth for now he was convinced he and Xani should stay together.
That made Obi-Wan and Gayron not needed or wanted on this trip Jinn crept back into the old feeling of betrayal and of being tricked by the boy who juts moments ago, he couldn't harbor a bad thought about.
Jinn left Obi-Wan on the bench asleep, while he went forward and had Xani comm his father to notify them of their arrival. He heard Xanatos talking to his father and he explained that a young Knight returning from his first mission was fortunate enough to bag the runaway Jedi.
.
Xanatos did not realize how false his words would be. Knight Diener's "fortunate" spotting of Pernile would very soon turn "unfortunate". Standing watch over Healer Pernile would be the last official service the young knight would ever do for the Jedi. He would be one with the force before Jinn could arrive.
All the arrangements were made. They would stay at the De' Crion home and be the guest of Xanatos' father. While not a mansion, the home was exceedingly comfortable. Xanatos' father had been quite successful when the diamond mines were first discovered. He got in quick and out just as quickly making his livelihood now from the riches that befell him on just one mine. Xanatos had grown up quite differently than Obi-Wan had.
The former slave had a hard life before enslavement then harder still when his parents were killed and he was enslaved.
Now Jinn did not know if the boy would even have a life to better himself if this damage to him could not be corrected. He tapped his fingers on the console to show his impatience. He also grew weary of watching Xani interact so willingly and trouble free with Gayron. He waited until his apprentice went to the back to fetch them drinks to say anything to the knight.
"Do you think just to snatch my apprentice from out from under my nose with me standing by and saying nothing about it too me? Did you think I would not find out?"
"Master Jinn I did not initiate this bond and I believe neither did Xani. If he did, what of it? It has been clear to everyone at the temple since Obi-Wan arrived that Xanatos has been cast aside in favor of the little slave. Now I try not to past judgment on you. Because you are a master to my knighthood I have to honor your station within the Jedi order, but what I don't have to honor is the way you have treated Xanatos Crion in favor of this little homeless one back there. He can't be trained. Even Master Yoda said it, yet you hold to him as if he is already your apprentice. So you see Master Jinn I don't see where it is Xanatos or I that are in the wrong here.. Please don't take this as disrespect to a Jedi master, however I feel you are the one who has wronged Xanatos not the other way around. Oh! by the way, it did take you a very long time to "know" about our bond too long for a bonded master and apprentice if they were truly bonded."
Obi-Wan woke up and seemed angry with Master Jinn for the force induced nap the master put him. Nevertheless the child still continued to cling to the master not willing to let go of the robe even as they disembarked from the ship and headed for Xanatos' family home.
"Please don't take this personally Master Jinn, but I truly don't see how you plan to go help Knight Dierner when you have Obi-Wan literally on you coat tail. I mean you can not go into any kind of battle with the boy."
"The "boy" as you call him will have to stay at the De' Crion home. Xanatos, if necessary will stay with him."
"Master I think I should go help."
Xanatos clearly did not like the prospect of being left behind to baby-sit or for any reason.
"Do you think that is fair Master Jinn to make your padawan stay and baby-sit the boy you would replace him with in a heartbeat if given a chance. If you valued his apprenticeship to you, you would not leave him behind, he would be right by your side as is his rightful place."
"Need I remain you Knight Gayron who you are addressing. I am a senior master, well above your knighthood status. To question my authority over my own padawan would not be wise if you expect to keep your knighthood within the Jedi. For I can assure you I can see to it, you are swiftly terminated if you question my actions again."
Jinn lowered his voice which was almost boisterous during his conversation, practically to a point of shouting. He could feel Kenobi tremble with fear over the two having a confrontation. Jinn did not know if he feared it because it was about him or that the child just could not stand the arguing in front of him.
Either way, Jinn tried to send comfort to the child but as of late, he was not sure if Obi-Wan's mind had the capabilities of always hearing or feeling him through the mental link with him.. He was sure though he made a mental connectiom when the boy knew what he said in the med unit about leaving him and about his condition.
"Now if you are finished Gayron, we will continue to the De'Crion home. I want to drop off Xani and Obi-Wan there and go directly to where Knight Dierner is."
Knight Diener bowed slightly to the head master of the mission.
"Forgive me for overstepping my boundary and you are right, we do need to proceed immediately to the knight's aid. Xani you will have to a stay at your home with Obi-Wan, understood?"
Jinn didn't want to carry the argument further like some jealous woman, but Gayron spoke to his apprentice as if he were Xanatos' master and not Jinn. Jinn got a very uncomfortable feeling and thought that if Gayron did not voice the command to stay there then Xani would have been unwilling too. It seemed as if Xanatos now took his guidance and direction from Gayron instead of Jinn………………………