"Master Jinn I think it would be for the best for all concerned, if you had your little clique up there get off the table and surrender your sabers peacefully. Jedi are not noted for their desire to spill blood. We wouldn't want anything to happen to those you care about around you, now would we?"
Jinn knew well who Pernile meant. He planned to use Obi-Wan as his protection, but Jinn would have none of that.
"Do you think I would fall for that ploy Master Healer? I know we Jedi are dead anyway. You can take our midichlorians and we will die even quicker and without our Jedi dignity intact. Even Obi-Wan over there. I don't see you willing to care for him as he should be with the obstacles you have decisively placed in front of him by diminishing his force potential."
"So you plan to make this capture of you and your group difficult and messy are you Master Jinn? "Cap" I suppose you are going to have to tell your men Master Jinn would rather forfeit the lives of those who are under him than to do this peacefully."
It only took a few minutes for the pirates to collectively make a human fighting chain around the table.
Jabba moved his heavy cumbersome "living" carcass out of the way. He personally never took part in the violence. He let his men do it for him and reaped the rewards of watching blood spew from his opponents.. This time he would have to watch the pirates overtake the Jedi. However it would be no less entertaining than had it been those under his command doing the butchering. He wanted Jinn taken care of by anyone capable of doing it.
Qui-Gon decided to start the battle and get it over with. He did a double front flip over the ring of pirates so he now could launch an attack from their rear. They had a choice of remaining there and facing Gayron and Xanatos or of watching their backs, where Jinn now stood. The pirates did not possess much intelligence where battle strategy was concerned. They hesitated a moment too soon. That proved to be the setting for their down fall.
Knight Gayron and Xanatos almost simultaneously started their assault from the front, brandishing their sabers knocking down pirates, yet theyalso used the light sabers as a shield from the barrage of blaster shots and swords that the pirates were armed with.
Jinn made one parry forward and started his attack of the pirates, who seemed too engrossed with the Jedi in front of them to worry about Jinn, until he was right up on them. Thrusting his saber forward, taking out as many as two men at a time, Jinn twisted and turned to meet the pirates onslaught, one at a time or in bunches in twos or threes. It made no difference to Jinn how many met their death. He was hell-bent on getting all three Jedi, himself included and Obi out alive and well. His saber made short thrusting motions with such speed that all that could be seen was the streaking blur of flashing green light being swung through the air as pirates fell one by one.
None of the Jedi were careful not to make a death blow as was the norm for them usually in any battle. This was a serious battle and the pirates would face the deadly serious consequences for attacking the three Jedi warriors.
That was the only way to describe the normal tranquil peaceful Jedi now, [b]"warriors of good"[/b] versus the evil of three factions; Pernile, Jabba, and the slaver pirate captain.
Pernile looked around him nervously. Even the few sentry guards of the Hutt had been disposed up, cut down at the hand of the normally peaceful laid back Jedi.
A more impressive display of battling techniques had not been witnessed before by those in charge, who stood and watched the slaughtering of the men under their command.
Pernile, "Cap", and Jabba began to get nervous over the fact that now between them and the Jedi, were only be a handful of men protecting them. Not a good thing for the three who only ordered the blood shed and had made no plans to actually involve themselves personally in hand to hand combat battle with their nemeses.
Jabba the Hutt had two guards that never left his side. Now that the battle seemed to have taken a turn to defeat for the slavers, Jabba knew it was time to make a hasty and unnoticed retreat.
//If Pernile survives this then I will look him up and discuss this force collecting idea of his. However now is not the time to wait around and talk business.//
Jabba thought is was more wise of him to abandon his plan with Pernile at least temporarily. He motioned for his guards to wheel his overly large body, which remained on a platform on wheels, away from the battle and they slipped out unnoticed. The Jedi were to busy working their way to the captain and Pernile, who by then were protected by only three of the captain's men.
The pirates left seemed more than willing to give up if one of the Jedi just stomped their foot or lunged at them quickly.
Jinn was a blaze with anger for the men before him. He had no desire to kill people innocent or criminal. It was just not the Jedi nature, more importantly, it was his nature to wantonly kill another being. He resented the cowards that stood before him, that let the ones mastered by them, fight their battle and lose their lives for the ungrateful overseers..
Jinn looked at the three pirates and felt sympathy for the despicable men who would willingly do harm just by an order placed on them by an even more despicable and heartless soul, their captain.
Jinn held his sword up as if in warning.
"There are three of us and three of you gentlemen. You have seen what we are capable of. Do you really want to put us to the test again to see if we can take the three of you? We have fought our way through twenty or more of your friends and comrades"
Each other looked to the other for guidance. They did not wait for Captain to give them an order to stay and fight to their deaths. They immediately dropped their weapons. Jinn stood aside and waved them off. They would been given a reprieve and would not even be held in custody. Qui-Gon thought of it as a gift for their so willing surrender. Now nothing stood in the way of the anger charged Master Qui-Gon Jinn as he finally faced the two who had brought his Obi-Wan so much pain and mental duress.
.
Each one, Pernile and "Cap" thought they had one wild card to keep them from being killed or taken in custody by the Jedi.
Pernile stood ready to throw the bag in the water. "Cap" still had his grip on the chain that tethered Obi-Wan too him. He had the chain in his hand and not hooked to his body.
Obi-Wan took all the happenings in. He seemed not to understand that Jinn had defeated all but the two before him. Then Obi-Wan would be back in the care of the Jedi, Master Jinn in particular.
It was the first time since the battle started that Qui-Gon had been able to look for any amount of time at the child. He had glanced over to make sure Obi-Wan was alright but that as all the time allotted him during their intense confrontation.
"I think it is your turn Pernile to consider giving up. You have no one that you can have us attacked by now. Surely you are not willing to bloody your own hands with our death."
"If I thought I could kill the three of you Master Jinn I would not hesitate in the least to do it. I know how formable you are with you battle techniques and the saber. I have just witnessed a magnificent and impressive display of combat ever executed by any Jedi, I imagine. Nevertheless I am not the one to take you on. No I will settle for you allowing me to leave here peacefully and not throw this bag in the water or better yet puncture it with this little pin knife. Amazing how a small of weapon could do so much damage to your child Master Jinn."
Pernile referred to what would happen to Obi if the knife he held cut the bag and spilled its contents.
Jinn waited. He had no desire to see what Obi-Wan needed the most to recover his midichlorians thrown out to sea, but he had no desire to be killed or worse yet have Obi-Wan taken again or killed. He weighed his options and realized what he must do.
He would have to get Obi-Wan free of his captors at all or any cost. That meant he would have to take the chance of Pernile destroying Obi's midichlorians to keep the boy alive.
The captain waited until they were finished before he spoke.
"Master Jinn just what plans do you have for me? Can I be set free as the other three were?"
"That would depend. I want the boy over here and quickly if not this saber will land in your heart when I spear you with it."
Jinn's wrath had reached abnormal proportions for any Jedi. He meant every word he said.
Captain pulled a large gun from out of the waist of his pants.
"Jinn, you will not go for me with the boy here blocking your strikes with your saber. I on the other hand have a clear shot right through your heart as well. Think a shot in the chest that makes a hole the size of a cannon shell would down a Jedi. Do Jedi die as we?"
"We die and bleed just as you "Cap". We just do it for a worthy cause. Although today will not be my day or my friends', "day to die."
The pirate captain raised his gun and aimed at Master Jinn. Jinn threw his right hand forward.
Before Qui-Gon could execute a force hold on the captain, hoping to halt the gun shot, Obi-Wan had crept around in circles under the captain's feet and jerked hard on the chain that held him. The captain fell with a hard thud to the floor.
Once down he tried to get to his gun as he attempted to right himself into a standing position. Master Jinn then executed the force hold on him. Qui-Gon bound the captain as if contained by rope around his arms and legs.
Pernile stood along the edge of the ship. The bag of Obi-Wan's precious blood and midichlorains dangled over the side.
"I am not a fighter Jinn and I never claimed to be. No, I will do my battling this way. If I am not given a free pass to walk out of here I will just drop this little bag."
Qui-Gon looked from the boy to the healer who held what was most precious to Obi-Wan Kenobi. He could very well decide Obi-Wan's fate, whether he would live his life with a confused half working mind or end up once again laying claim to the person to possess the most midichlorians to date.
Gayron had already unhooked the collar from Obi-Wan's neck. The boy seemed hesitant to even let the Jedi knight touch him. And why not, he had been betrayed by one Jedi already beside the numerous other adults since being taken from his family and Home world.
The only thing Obi knew for sure was the big master in front of him, Qui-Gon Jinn held his heart, his mind and his soul. He ran for the comfort that only in Jinn's embrace could he get..
Jinn's right hand held his saber and his left nestled the little confused boy as he aggressively argued his planned surrender for Pernile to him.
"Pernile if I were to get that bag, then I would be tempted to let you go."
The other two Jedi said not a word. They knew that was the only thing that Jinn could do faced with only a few options and only that one would partially insure Obi-Wan's recovery.
Pernile still leaned over the edge of the boat.
He allowed Qui-Gon to take a few steps forward.
The storm that Jinn had mentioned earlier had overtaken the harbor and the ship rocked furiously as they waited to see what Pernile would do. Obi-Wan cringed with each thunderous clap heard of thunder and the streaking flashes of lightening.
Pernile stood up straighter and started to pull the bag back from over the rail.
Just then from a large wall of water from out in the sea descended on the ship as it cascaded down on the pirate ship. The huge wave rocked the boat violently, sending Pernile, Xani, and Gayron crashing to the ship's floor.
When Pernile started to fall he tried to grab the edge of the ship and his hand accidentally released the bag. Jinn ran to where he watched the midichlorians-filled bag fall.. He had to pick Obi-Wan off his feet to take the little one with him.
Qui-Gon Jinn watched as Obi-Wan's midichlorians hit the hull of the ship, where hooks that secured ropes stuck out. The bag did not reach the water which would have been better. It would have at least remained intact.
Qui-Gon watched in horror as Obi's blood seeped from the torn-opened plastic bag. It painted the side of the ship a crimson red, leaving ruby lines streaking down and into the storm-churned waters of the ocean.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's chance for a future splattered on the ship and then washed out to sea..............
It only took seconds for Xani and Gayron to right themselves from stumbling when the wave hit. It took them even less time to reach Pernile and safely secure him. Gayron took the pen knife from his hand as Xanatos unclipped the dead Jedi's knight saber Pernile had taken as a souvenir.
Qui-Gon Jinn stood and remained at the side of the ship as he watched the last drips of blood drain away.
//We have won the battle but lost the war. We came here to seek Obi-Wan's midichlorians so he could get his force signature back. We will leave here with the horrific knowledge that we did not succeed this mission's directive.//
Jinn could not have been happier to have gotten the boy back safely. However their mission was two-fold. The original mission to be completed was to safely secure Obi's midichlorians. Yes they caught Pernile and the slavers so today was good, but Obi-Wan was left without his force abilities.
Now it would be a long hard struggle for the child to overcome his obstacles and Jinn did not think for a second that the council would allow Obi-Wan to stay at the temple in the condition he was in.
Qui-Gon came back from his thoughts when he felt Obi-Wan's shivering body next to him. He left the De'Crion home without his robe and the wave that rocked the ship that totally soaked him. He was freezing with the ocean's breeze turning his water soaked body into a ice cube.
Jinn put Obi under his own robe as they headed to the authorities to turn the "Cap in. He told them of the people on the ship that were held captive and the police were forced to go and take care of getting them home.
Pernile would travel home with the Jedi on their ship and face the Jedi council for his punishment.
No one said a word about the former slave, Obi-Wan's lost powers. They feared the wrath of Jinn if they spoke a word about what would become of the child. Gayron worried that Qui-Gon would not allow Xanatos come with him. All in their own way had their misery.
Obi-Wan held the most in his mind and heart. Though he was not even aware of what might have been the worst damage done to him; the loss of his powers with possibly no chance of getting them back. He only knew now that people, even some of the Jedi could not be trusted. He feared all people now. It made no difference. He did not want Xani to be close to him.
Jinn tried to have Obi lay down on the ship and rest but when Gayron came in the little cabin where he tried to rest, Obi-Wan ran to Jinn. He knelt at his feet in a submissive pose, clinging again to the only person he was willing to have touch him, his master. ####
Late into the night Jinn had finally found a way for Obi-Wan to sleep. After he had put his own Jedi clothing back on he fed Obi and then laid his large warm robe by his feet where he sat in the pilot's chair. Obi-Wan laid on it and wrapped his too-small arm around the ankle of the master and fell asleep.
Qui-Gon felt the boy was more open now and could feel the waves of comfort he sent him. Xanatos had gone to the little cot in the back to sleep and Gayron flopped down in the chair next to Jinn and attempted sleep but it did not come.
Jinn looked over to see the worn-out knight who had done his share in the battle to regain Obi-Wan. Jinn was grateful and would not forget the man's help.
"I plan to go along with you and Xanatos in front of the council if you decide to ask for him to become your apprentice."
Gayron looked shocked.
"Thank you Master Jinn. You know I never planned this willingly. I mean I did not intend to steal Xanatos from you."
"I know Gayron. I have had a lot of time to think about it. You could not steal what I did not have. I did not have a full working viable bond with Xanatos. I never did. He himself can tell you that. Maybe he already has."
Gayron only nodded his agreement to let Qui-Gon know that he and Xani had discussed the wavering bond between master and apprentice. Jinn continued.
"Then when Obi-Wan came and tried to assert his bond, the bond with Xani just splintered into little pieces leaving nothing big enough to put back together. I am not sure though what will happen to Obi. The bond between us lays there weak but unfailing totally. I suppose the council will have it broken by the healers."
"You mean you don't think the council might change their mind and let you take Kenobi as your apprentice, though they have stated he was too old to train? If Xanatos and I do complete our bond that would leave you alone Master Jinn."
Qui-Gon winced at the thought. In the darkened cabin, Gayron could not see the pain etched deeply in the tired drawn face of Master Jinn.
The older the master got, the less he liked his solitude. Training a young apprentice brought the needed companionship and more fullness to his life. Even though their bond was weak, he would miss the camaraderie Xani and he shared. Aside from the weak bond Xani, had been a good partner and even an amusing and comfortable fixture in his life for quite awhile. He would be missed.
Jinn then turned to Gayron and smiled.
"I will survive Knight Gayron. It will not be the first time I have been alone and I don't think it will be the last. I don't think the council can possibly let Obi-Wan stay. Yes he could have been powerful and now I would willingly fight for his station as my apprentice, however without the midchlorians he can not even think of becoming an apprentice. It would take a long time even for his mind to become unscrambled. He has said only a few words since Pernile damaged his mind. The bond we have goes in and out like a bad comm connection. NO Obi-Wan's fate may just be the Agricrorps . I can only hope it won't be the one on Bandomeer. I think the life there would be to rough for him as he is now."
Jinn wandered back into his thoughts and listened to the quiet of the ship with only the hum of the engine. Well that was all the noise heard until he smiled again at the light snoring that let him know Gayron had finally sunken into a hopefully peaceful sleep."
################
Master Windu with two knights, awaited the arrival of Jinn's ship. They stood in the long corridor and watched as Xanatos and Gayron led Master Pernile out to the knights, who took him to a force shielded cell to await a trial by the Jedi. This was Jedi business and would be held by the Jedi tribunal made up of council members and two or three other senior masters.
Mace noted with a little bit of disgust that Jinn could not help in delivering Pernile to the waiting knights because his hands were full of Obi-Wan Kenobi. The situation was not good for his friend Qui-Gon.
//I only did what I did in front of the council for Qui-Gon's best interest. He will see what I recommended to the council was truly the best thing for him. He just has to get away from the little homeless boy, Obi-Wan to know that.//
Just as the knights led Pernile away, Jinn could not help but notice three healers advance toward them.
"Mace tell the healers to go back we are in no need of medical care."
Jinn waited for he knew the healers had not come to assist the Jedi, they had come to drag Obi-Wan back to the healers' ward."
"Qui-Gon you know very well they are not here for you. They are here to take the boy back to the healers where he belongs."
Obi-Wan must have understood the tall dark good-looking master, for he stepped behind Master Jinn as if to be shielded from the healers and get added protection from the big master. Jinn reached back with his left hand and tried to calm the boy by patting his arm.
"Master Windu I was unwillingly made Obi-Wan's guardian and now I plan to see it through until arrangements can be made, or something decided what to do with him."
"Then my old friend you can relinquish your obligations of him, for the council, along with Master Yoda has decided what should be done with him. Now let the healers take him."
Mace waited minute and still Jinn made no move to hand over the boy.
Xanatos and Gayron looked on and Mace noticed it.
"I think the two of you can find something to eat and clean up. We will debrief you in about three hours. Now GO!"
That last two words, "NOW GO" came out a little harsher and much louder than the council master had intended, but he knew he had a very difficult and delicate situation between his friend and himself.
The two masters waited until the others had left. Mace waved the healers off and they moved back toward the other end of the corridor, but they had no intention of going without the Kenobi child.
"Look Qui, do not make this harder than it has to be."
Jinn still stung from being told his old master went along with taking Obi-Wan away from him. Always before, in a way, Yoda had pushed the child on him.
//My old master told me to listen to the force. I have and it tells me to keep this child. Why did he turn against me? //
Jinn clearly felt betrayed by his former master, Yoda.
"Are you telling me Mace, that Master Yoda went along with this, I mean to have the boy removed from my custody? And you say the council has decided what to do with him, then what? Do you plan to tell me?"
" Just because you are the most favored Jedi at the temple or anywhere in the galaxy in Master Yoda's opinion, does not mean he would not vote against you if he felt he was doing the right thing and listening to the force. He always has your best interest in mind so you know what we plan for the child is the "right thing to do?"
"Then why aren't you telling me what is planned? Where is Master Yoda? It is not because I am favored by him that we agree so much, we think alike and follow the force as well."
"DO Not imply I don't follow the force. Don't get me wrong Jinn I do not begrudge your favoritism in Yoda's eyes. I know it does not just derive from being his most beloved padawan, but also from your expert Jedi abilities. However even he has gone along with the council and you will have too also. He will not champion your cause on this my old friend."
Jinn raised and eyebrow and cocked his head to meet Mace's glaring stare. Qui-Gon had been talking to Mace but his gaze had rested on Obi-Wan the entire time.
"Is that flattery I here in those words Mace? If it is, it still will not curb my temper or change my mind. Obi-Wan is coming back home where he belongs."
Mace was clearly getting upset with his friend and big master, Qui-Gon.
"Listen Master Jinn, you do not run this temple, no one does on their own. Not you or Master Yoda. The boy's fate has been sealed and not your anger or your words can change it. Now let him go with the healers."
Mace was still unwilling to tell Jinn what the council had planned for the boy and Qui-Gon knew he would not like their decision or Mace would have told him of Obi's fate.
Qui-Gon now turned head to head and eye to eye with his friend. He was not going to let them take Obi-Wan to the healers. The boy had offered no words in his defense, but Jinn could feel the little skeletal-like frame of Obi-Wan tremble as the two big masters battled his fate back and forth.
Mace motioned for the healers come forward.
"Don't do this Mace. We have been friends for a long time to end it now, like this."
"Yes we have Qui but we have been Jedi longer and always first in our lives. Do not take that away by defending one little child that no one will miss once he has been gone a few weeks, even you."
Mace knew that sounded extremely cruel but he had to get through to his friend someway. Qui-Gon had let the little boy take over his rational thinking and most of all, his heart, Mace realized. Once he thought more clearly Mace reasoned to himself, Jinn would see this was for the best, although he had not yet told the master what the council had planned for Obi-Wan. Now that in its self would create another battle between Jinn and even all the council members.
The healers watched the confrontation as it seemed to escalate between Qui and Mace.. Concern for the two masters was evident in the alarmed stare of the three healers.. They had never seen the two old friends confront each other with so much harshness in their voices.
Just then from down the hall came a tapping sound. Both masters looked up to see Yoda bounding down the corridor in a high rate of speed, at least for him. As he walked toward the two, Qui and Mace, he continually tapped his gimer stick to get their attention, so maybe the arguing would stop.
"Not a person in the temple gifted with the force did not hear you, have they not? Stop this in front of the boy you should, Both of you."
When Yoda spoke last, he directed his stare at his old padawan.
"Good Master Yoda. I am glad you are here . Now you can talk some sense into you former apprentice. I think he lets the boy there rule him now."
Yoda raised his gimer stick to silence Master Windu.
"Enough I said. Should have gotten me Master Windu before built to a blown out argument, it did. Friends you are and friends you should stay.. Not let the boy change that you should not."
"That's what I told him master. Qui has let his emotions guide his mind.."
"Said that I did not Mace. The boy another matter, friends you should stay always." Now Master Jinn, allow the boy to go with the Healers you should for now. Explain personally I will."
Master Jinn looked down at his old master in astonishment. He had always told him to listen to the force he and now Yoda wanted him to ignore it. He could not though, find it in his heart to be angry with Yoda or not heed his command. Besides Jinn thought for just a split second he saw his former master wink.
Yoda directed the healers with a hand motion to come and take Obi-Wan away . Once in the arms of one healer, of a speices Jinn could not think of right then, the boy started screaming at the top of his lungs. All three masters were alarmed and concerned for the little one, as the healer started to drag Obi-Wan down the corridor. Jinn only looked at Master Yoda with pathelically sad blue eyes.
Then suddenly Jinn heard Obi-Wan speak.
"MASTER PLEASE!! I WANT TO STAY WITH YOU."
Jinn was not sure if it was a mental scream or did Obi-Wan speak out loud. He did not wonder for long before he found out the answer to his question.
Yoda immediately halted the healers and Obi-wan ran to Master Jinn.
Yoda nodded to Jinn.
"Heard it I did. Good sign this is Master Jinn but the boy must go to the healers. Discuss this in private you and I will."
Jinn watched as Master Yoda walked up and very gently, without being felt by Obi-Wan laid his hand on the boy's back. Yoda pushed a force suggestion of sleep on the boy. Qui-Gon caught Obi-Wan as his legs buckled and peaceful slumber overtook him. The large healer of unknown species, came and carried the boy away."
Mace satisfied with what happened but disappointed that he had to argue its sucess, turned and walked away. Now was not a good time to make his apology to his friend, although apologize he knew he must later.
Jinn stood in the middle of the corridor with only Yoda left by his side. Mace gone, Obi-Wan, carried away, and Yoda stood very close to Qui-Gon and sent peace and calm to his padawan. Jinn gladly accepted it for the man was clearly at wits end as he watched Obi-Wan being taken away with no knowledge of what was planned for the boy. Hopefully Yoda would tell him.
Qui-Gon immediately fell to his knees in front of his former master.
"Master Yoda you have always taught me to listen to the force. I do, then what I seek what the force demands, it is overruled by the council, you yourself included. It is you and not the force that has taken Obi-Wan away from me."
Yoda let his hand rest on Qui-Gon's arm.
"Do you think capable I am of wavering in my fate in you or the force my padawan? No, what I have planned, if a success it is, will give you Obi-Wan Kenobi as your apprentice. But be done in secret it must. No one to know they should not. Obi at the healers he is for a test by an old friend of mine. Retrieve him tonight I will see you can. Council will believe you have accepted fate and wait for his departure. Stay with you he will, once council thinks you have accepted all things they say."
"We are to deceive the council in what we do to keep Obi-Wan?"
Jinn never would have thought Master Yoda would have done anything like the deceit of the other council members to attain what he wanted.
"Deceive all and everyone we should if succeed in this we do. Know what you seek Qui-Gon. Seek the boy as your apprentice you do. Done correctly this is, Obi-Wan Kenobi, your apprentice he will be.……….."
"Time it is Padawan to go home, clean up, and then meet me at my flat you will. Eat together and to the council meeting we will go. Much to discuss this day before the council you have."
Jinn started to agree to Yoda's commands but waited.
"Master Yoda shouldn't I see to Xani. I mean he needs to eat as well as I?"
"Know you do as well as I, see to Xani no longer up to you it is. Gayron knows his job in principle, I think he does. Make a fine master he will. Nothing meant by this padawan but stronger their bond as master and apprentice than the one you had with Xani ."
"I know that all too well of what you speak and it brings me a certain sadness for myself but hope for my former padawan, Xanatos."
Master Qui-Gon Jinn had finally made the last transition of breaking the bond with Xani. He admitted the boy was not his padawan but his "former" apprentice now.
"Good! Heart you have Master Jinn. Sometimes too big for own good. Still settle what Xanatos did on Telos we must. Think he did not plan to betray the Jedi. Thoughts of improving his relationship with you he did if more power he had. See to it, defend him you do before the council."
"I know he did not plan to betray me, but sometimes I think hints of darkness lies in Xani. I can't help it Master Yoda I sometimes feel that way."
"Why the bond could not be completed lack of trust it was. Lack in total trust you had not for him bond destined to fail bond was. Not your fault it is.. Now hope, trust you have in this little one of yours for need it Obi-Wan will to survive his apprenticeship if apprentice he becomes. Much scrutiny he will be under the council's watchful eyes. Harder for him it will be. Always waiting for him to fail some of the council will be."
"I will see we both survive master. I only hope I won't fail him as I did Xanatos."
Yoda hit the other master lightly on his chins with his gimer stick.
"See that you never say that again Qui-Gon Jinn. Failed no one you have. Much courage it takes today to give an apprentice up when your future not clear if another there is ready for you. Hope I do we succeed and Obi-Wan Kenobi fills that void he does."
########Back at the healers ward.###########
In a closed off room, a new and most curious Master healer was going over the vitals of Obi-Wan Kenobi. This healer that had just come for a visit and supposedly observation of other healers at other Jedi temples insisted he needed no assistance with the little boy in a deep sleep, put there by a force suggestion of his brother, Master Yoda.
Yes, this strange and mysterious master healer was Master Yeri, twin brother to Master Yoda. He seldom ventured from his home temple on Vorhies. His medical techniques and discoveries were renown amongst the Jedi. He was sought out for many difficult medical cases of the Jedi. He would mostly study from his temple and did not leave, but this was a special case.
Master Yeri was asked by a special person to intercede and come up with a cure for Obi-Wan. Master Yeri required the assistance of a little step stool to successfully reach his patient in bed.
As soon as Yoda had heard of what happened on Telos and knew that his former padawan was safe and headed back to the temple he planted himself down in the library of the temple surrounded by dusty ledgers that held the Jedi past.
In the back of his mind Yoda recalled similar happening down thorugh the history of the Jedi. Not where the midchlorians were harvested as Pernile had done but a few Jedi down through history had for various reasons, including mysterious midichlorian eating viruses, lost their force abilities. Yoda also seemed to have remembered an unusual and possibly deadly cure.
If successful the Jedi would start to regenerate his midichlorians. If it didn't work, death was almost assured. Blood from one securely bonded to the other was transfused into the blood stream of the afflicted person. If bonded securely it would succeed and blood match not necessary their blood. It must always occur between Master and apprentice with a verystrong bond, or death of the blood recipient would occur.
Qui-Gon Jinn would not be in any danger, but the procedure could have a dangerous outcome for the little former slave. If not a success, then death would be the outcome for him.
########In Yoda's apartment###########
"Eat this you should. Need your strength you will for what must be done."
Jinn looked down at the hearty stew of meat and vegetables and had to agree it did look sumptuous.
"Master Yoda I have listened to how you have explained this medical procedure and I have to tell you it sounds very dangerous for the boy."
"Promised you I did not that certain amount of risks would not accompany the possible cure."
"Risk," do you call the death of Obi-Wan a risk? Then you tell me as his guardian while he does not think clearly I will be responsible for making the decision whether to let him take that "risk" and have the procedure done? Maybe you ask too much of me my old master."
"Maybe."
Yod sat a crossed from Jinn and ate his stew. He watched his former padawan with great interest, taking in all his little movements and mannerisms he knew so well from Jinn being his padawan. He was not sure Jinn had it in him to make the call which might end Obi-Wan's life instantly.
"Padawan of mind I know ask much of you I do. Only thing you truly need to know is if the force sent you this boy. If indeed it did and you know the bond has potential to be strong then when your blood is injected into Obi-Wan he will receive your midichlorians and they will over the next year multiply."
"If though there is no bond and it is just the need of a child powerful with the force to have someone to love him, then he will die for your blood and his matched they are not. Your midchlorians will slowly clog the child's vital organs one by one until is death is assured.. Nothing left to lose for the boy I see it that way. Recover to normal mental capacity he never will without the help of my brother Master Healer Yeri."
"Much risk we all take If discovered we are that deceit we attempt and go against the council wishes might be in deep trouble, but if done then the council will have to see it was the will of the force . Well if lives the child does.
"What happens if he doesn't live Master Yoda?"
"Then more than likely put of the Jedi order you, Yeri, and I will be, for nothing less than murder is what we will have committed. Risk for all of us. Brother and I willing to take that risk. So sure I am Obi bonds with you by the force its self directing him. Now you must decide if ready to take the chance of losing your Jedi master status to help the boy."
"How will it take to know with any certainty that my midichlorians have effectively establish their multiplying within Obi-Wan's blood stream?"
"Two weeks at the most, my twin brother informs me. Until then stall we will ,the council's persistent desire to ship the boy to Agricorps. Survive Bandomeer in his state he will not. To me guilty of murder the council will be for sending him there. Council though does not see what I see for the boy's future if there he goes."
Jinn knew his answer would have to be yes to this possible procedure that could result in killing the boy he so much now wanted to keep as his apprentice. Jinn agreed with Master Yoda completely. Obi- Wan could not survive the rigors of the demands that would be placed on him on Bandomeer.
Qui-Gon was familiar with the "Crops" of Bandomeer. Horror stories of its rough and rugged life for the initiates sent there that did not succeed in being taken an a master's apprentice, was known to all those in the Jedi order. Difficult for those who still possessed the force and were strong and healthy young people but Jinn thought impossible for anyone without some protection from the force..
Obi-Wan Kenobi could not and would not survive any lengthy stay in the Agricorps on Bandomeer………………………………...
The council was already assembled and Xanatos and Gayron stood waiting for Master Jinn too join them.
//Master Yoda was certainly right. We will have a great deal to discuss in front the of the council today. Hope I am able to be as deceitful as Yoda seems to think he can be.//
Jinn has to shake is head in wonder of the last words he just spoke. To have said them about Yoda was comical, yet unimaginable.
Xani and Gayron turned their heads to the main door when they heard the clicking of Jinn's boots on the worn-out and overly waxed floors of the council chambers.
What they, along with the council masters saw was a hulk of a master with the decorum of serene stoicism projected by Qui-Gon Jinn. His walk and air of confidence; just his overall look epitomized a Jedi Master, a perfect Jedi Master. This Master Qui-Gon Jinn had it together. Not one master on the council doubted his worth to them or his loyalty to the Jedi order.
That was not what the man himself felt about his entrance to the council chambers.
//I feel like an eleven-year initiate here to get their "hands slapped" for not listening to their master instructor in class. //
Jinn felt small this day. He did not know if it was because he was deceiving the council masters or that this time he was more than likely there for a reprimand of how he dealt with Obi-Wan and not why he usually was there; for some kind of praise for a job well done on a mission.
"Know of why you are here you three do?"
Yoda with eyes lids drooped to where there were nothing more than two thin slits for him to see from and his finely pointed ears seem to twitch in sympathy nervousness for the three Jedi before him. If they had not known better, the look he gave the three who waited to know their future, would have brought fear. However there was not one being at the temple that did not know, love, and respect the little green troll of the master. All knew they had nothing to fear from their High Master Yoda, central figure of the Jedi council.
Yoda did not need an answer to his question and they gave none. They just waited for him to begin.
"First the council wishes to commend you for your retrieving of Master Pernile and the capture of another slavery ship. Many out there are, but two have been eliminated because of you three Jedi."
Yoda referred to the first ship also which had originally taken Obi-Wan.
Jinn bowed as acceptation of the thank you from Yoda for all of them. He waited with anticipation for the meeting here that would deal with Xani and then with Obi-Wan.
"Now get to matters not comfortable we are with I think. Deal with the bonding of Xanatos Crion to Knight Gayron we do. What say you on this situation Master Jinn?"
Jinn's face grew a bit pink.
How Qui-Gon dreaded to get stand before his piers and admit he was unable to form a bond strong enough to teach this padawan, Xanatos. He felt like a failure even though Yoda had assured him he was not.
"I am deeply saddened to say I and Xani could not form a strong bond. The force put Knight Gayron in the right position at the right time and a bond formed spontaneously between my padawan and Knight Gayron. I wish to stand before the council this day and give them my blessing to completely form a training bond together. The bond with Xanatos that I once shared is now broken, quite easily I might add."
Whispers of condemnation and astonishment rang through the echo-carrying chamber. Usually when a bond was broken both master and apprentice felt at least some discomfort and pain. They most always required a trip to the healers, both physical and mental, but not from the breaking of this bond. Most council masters knew that the bond must have been as fragile and weak and finely spun glass by the break of the bond coming with such ease..
There was one on the council who refused to accept the explanation of Jinn's failed bond with his apprentice.. He still felt what he was doing was for the good of his best friend Qui. Master Windu spoke up.
"You must understand Master Jinn that we, the council have to be a little confused. You tell us of a very weak bond yet all along you two have worked well on your missions with no complaint from you, Padawan Xanatos, or us on how your missions were conducted. Why now is Xanatos such a burden? So much so that you are wiling to sacrifice him for another? Could it be your lame attempt to get the other boy, Obi-Wan as your apprentice and know that two padawans you can not have?"
Xanatos was livid. For his master's best friend to make such an accusation against a man as noble as his master, well former master, was unthinkable and he would not let it pass with his "two cents" being heard. He stepped forward.
Qui-Gon and Gayron tried to stop him, but to Jinn's surprise Master Yoda waved them both off. He seemed to have a little smile on his face as if he knew Xani planned to blast Master Windu for his cruel remarks about Xani's Master and Yoda would be delighted and amused to here every word of it.
"Master Windu forgive me but you know your best friend better than I and you know that is not the way it happened. Many times my master and I discussed the weakness of our bond. We mediated and struggled with the problem all through my apprenticeship. Yes, it weakened more by Obi-Wan's bond trying to assert its self in my master's mind. However even then, Master Jinn tried very hard to stop Kenobi's bond and strengthen ours. That would not happen though. Then when Knight Gayron and I met something just clicked. I know that may sound too simple for you council masters to comprehend, but that is what happened. It was as if we were meant to be joined as master an apprentice. You can prevent us from being so. However, it will not take away or diminish the bond we already have. We wish only to make it official and establish a strong training bond. I only want to become a Jedi knight one day and now that I know of the bond with Knight Gayron I truly believe I can be successful. The force has deemed it so. Will the council masters resend the order by the force its self?"
Master Yoda tapped his gimer stick on the wooden step that encircled his chair. All the council masters heard the tap but none but one looked up. They all knew it was to draw Master Windu's attention and that more than likely it was a subtle reprimand to the tall bald Master by Yoda.
Master Windu looked to Master Yoda and knew that the master was not happy with his remarks. Why would he thought Windu.
//They were directed at his padawan, Qui-Gon//
Words spoken by this young man could not have brought home the point better if they came from a seasoned master, trained in diplomacy and speech.
"Eloquent and to the point I would say Master Windu. What say you? Deny the force what it wills you would? Think to ignore the force's bidding you do?
Windu let his anger show.
"You think I am not so faithful to the living force, that I would not heed its will Master Yoda? If the bond demands forming with Xanatos and Gayron so be it. Nevertheless there is the issue of Jinn and Kenobi. I know Jinn wants that boy for his apprentice. All of these council members should be aware of it. I know he sent that little memorandum to us before this hearing started; stating he was willing to give the boy up, but also willing to keep him until that time arrangements can be made to ship him to Bandomeer. I tell you who sit here today in judgment of my old friend, he has something up his sleeve. I guarantee his thinking has not changed when it comes to the boy."
There were more whispers and gasps. All the council members were shocked that Master Windu would level such horrible accusations on his once best friend. Even going to the extreme of saying he lied and was deceiving the council for his own gain to get Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Master Eeth Koth was particularily outraged by the accusations and he wasn't even a close friend of Qui-Gon's. Certainly not as close as everyone had assumed Windu and Jinn were.
"Master Windu your statements about Master Jinn are not only uncalled for without proof, they could even be considered libelous on your part; worthy of a censure from we the other council members. Care to share the proof of these accusations?"
Windu kept silent and looked to his old friend Qui. Jinn had reached his boiling point for what Windu said. Not that he wasn't in part speaking the truth, but that he chose not to side with Qui-Gon . He had opted instead to make Qui-Gon and Master Yoda's little project harder. It would have in fact been easier had they another on their side that they could tell and trust, but Windu would not be the one, Qui-Gon supposed.
Qui-Gon abruptly decided it was his turn to be heard. He took the two steps required when wanting to address the council. Windu stared on as Master Yoda nodded his agreement for Qui-Gon to speak. Now it was the big master's turn to throw venom back in his friends face and so he began his own brutal attack.
"You my old friend have overstepped your boundaries as a council master and as my dearest friend."
Several masters nodded their agreement until they saw Yoda flash them a look of warning.
"This is twice now you have taken an intrusive interest with my private most intimate life. Now and once when I got off the ship when you had Obi-Wan removed from my care. I have listened to your spewing of garbage to my face much more than is required of me to take from a council member, let alone my friend. You my old friend know me well enough not to push your opinions on me. Have you lost all trust in me as a person, a master, and most of all a friend to sit here and try to convince the council members I would do something not worthy of a Jedi, of my station as a Jedi master? Has our friendship and mutual respect dwindled so much while I never even knew it faltered in your eyes. Let me assure you Mace it has not diminished in my view."
FIRE AND ICE, Jinn however did try to soften his words at the end of his speech.
Windu dropped his head in shame. He had said a lot about this master his friend. Now he thought he had overstepped the bounds not just of a council master but more importantly as a comrade to Qui-Gon. Guilt now weighed heavily on the master's shoulders and he would speak against this man his former "crèche partner in crime", no more.
"Enough said in these chambers there has been. Maybe too much to correct I fear. Unless a master hear can speak against Xanatos Crion and Knight Gayron then I decree it so, bond to form between them. Same goes for Master Jinn if no council master can voice an objection and give its reason, then Obi-Wan Kenobi to remain in his care until arrangements made for his transfer to the Agricorps. No reason for the child to suffer until he has too ."
Yoda's last statement was in a way condemning the council for even agreeing to Obi-Wan's move to the Argricorps.
Jinn held his breath. He hoped for the friendship that he wanted to one day again share with Mace that he would not voice any more objections. If he had, it might have been enough to finalize their friendship entirely. However the master who had been so vocal, Master Windu, held his tongue and things were as Yoda said they would be.
Jinn bowed to the council masters, congratulated the new master and apprentice, and left immediately to retrieve his ward, Obi-Wan from the healers.……………………
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Please don't think I am trying to pressure you into posting. I plan to finish this story anyway. It is just that sometimes when you work hard on a story, I really *enjoy* someone telling you they *enjoyed* reading it.
PEACE ewen
Jinn knew well who Pernile meant. He planned to use Obi-Wan as his protection, but Jinn would have none of that.
"Do you think I would fall for that ploy Master Healer? I know we Jedi are dead anyway. You can take our midichlorians and we will die even quicker and without our Jedi dignity intact. Even Obi-Wan over there. I don't see you willing to care for him as he should be with the obstacles you have decisively placed in front of him by diminishing his force potential."
"So you plan to make this capture of you and your group difficult and messy are you Master Jinn? "Cap" I suppose you are going to have to tell your men Master Jinn would rather forfeit the lives of those who are under him than to do this peacefully."
It only took a few minutes for the pirates to collectively make a human fighting chain around the table.
Jabba moved his heavy cumbersome "living" carcass out of the way. He personally never took part in the violence. He let his men do it for him and reaped the rewards of watching blood spew from his opponents.. This time he would have to watch the pirates overtake the Jedi. However it would be no less entertaining than had it been those under his command doing the butchering. He wanted Jinn taken care of by anyone capable of doing it.
Qui-Gon decided to start the battle and get it over with. He did a double front flip over the ring of pirates so he now could launch an attack from their rear. They had a choice of remaining there and facing Gayron and Xanatos or of watching their backs, where Jinn now stood. The pirates did not possess much intelligence where battle strategy was concerned. They hesitated a moment too soon. That proved to be the setting for their down fall.
Knight Gayron and Xanatos almost simultaneously started their assault from the front, brandishing their sabers knocking down pirates, yet theyalso used the light sabers as a shield from the barrage of blaster shots and swords that the pirates were armed with.
Jinn made one parry forward and started his attack of the pirates, who seemed too engrossed with the Jedi in front of them to worry about Jinn, until he was right up on them. Thrusting his saber forward, taking out as many as two men at a time, Jinn twisted and turned to meet the pirates onslaught, one at a time or in bunches in twos or threes. It made no difference to Jinn how many met their death. He was hell-bent on getting all three Jedi, himself included and Obi out alive and well. His saber made short thrusting motions with such speed that all that could be seen was the streaking blur of flashing green light being swung through the air as pirates fell one by one.
None of the Jedi were careful not to make a death blow as was the norm for them usually in any battle. This was a serious battle and the pirates would face the deadly serious consequences for attacking the three Jedi warriors.
That was the only way to describe the normal tranquil peaceful Jedi now, [b]"warriors of good"[/b] versus the evil of three factions; Pernile, Jabba, and the slaver pirate captain.
Pernile looked around him nervously. Even the few sentry guards of the Hutt had been disposed up, cut down at the hand of the normally peaceful laid back Jedi.
A more impressive display of battling techniques had not been witnessed before by those in charge, who stood and watched the slaughtering of the men under their command.
Pernile, "Cap", and Jabba began to get nervous over the fact that now between them and the Jedi, were only be a handful of men protecting them. Not a good thing for the three who only ordered the blood shed and had made no plans to actually involve themselves personally in hand to hand combat battle with their nemeses.
Jabba the Hutt had two guards that never left his side. Now that the battle seemed to have taken a turn to defeat for the slavers, Jabba knew it was time to make a hasty and unnoticed retreat.
//If Pernile survives this then I will look him up and discuss this force collecting idea of his. However now is not the time to wait around and talk business.//
Jabba thought is was more wise of him to abandon his plan with Pernile at least temporarily. He motioned for his guards to wheel his overly large body, which remained on a platform on wheels, away from the battle and they slipped out unnoticed. The Jedi were to busy working their way to the captain and Pernile, who by then were protected by only three of the captain's men.
The pirates left seemed more than willing to give up if one of the Jedi just stomped their foot or lunged at them quickly.
Jinn was a blaze with anger for the men before him. He had no desire to kill people innocent or criminal. It was just not the Jedi nature, more importantly, it was his nature to wantonly kill another being. He resented the cowards that stood before him, that let the ones mastered by them, fight their battle and lose their lives for the ungrateful overseers..
Jinn looked at the three pirates and felt sympathy for the despicable men who would willingly do harm just by an order placed on them by an even more despicable and heartless soul, their captain.
Jinn held his sword up as if in warning.
"There are three of us and three of you gentlemen. You have seen what we are capable of. Do you really want to put us to the test again to see if we can take the three of you? We have fought our way through twenty or more of your friends and comrades"
Each other looked to the other for guidance. They did not wait for Captain to give them an order to stay and fight to their deaths. They immediately dropped their weapons. Jinn stood aside and waved them off. They would been given a reprieve and would not even be held in custody. Qui-Gon thought of it as a gift for their so willing surrender. Now nothing stood in the way of the anger charged Master Qui-Gon Jinn as he finally faced the two who had brought his Obi-Wan so much pain and mental duress.
.
Each one, Pernile and "Cap" thought they had one wild card to keep them from being killed or taken in custody by the Jedi.
Pernile stood ready to throw the bag in the water. "Cap" still had his grip on the chain that tethered Obi-Wan too him. He had the chain in his hand and not hooked to his body.
Obi-Wan took all the happenings in. He seemed not to understand that Jinn had defeated all but the two before him. Then Obi-Wan would be back in the care of the Jedi, Master Jinn in particular.
It was the first time since the battle started that Qui-Gon had been able to look for any amount of time at the child. He had glanced over to make sure Obi-Wan was alright but that as all the time allotted him during their intense confrontation.
"I think it is your turn Pernile to consider giving up. You have no one that you can have us attacked by now. Surely you are not willing to bloody your own hands with our death."
"If I thought I could kill the three of you Master Jinn I would not hesitate in the least to do it. I know how formable you are with you battle techniques and the saber. I have just witnessed a magnificent and impressive display of combat ever executed by any Jedi, I imagine. Nevertheless I am not the one to take you on. No I will settle for you allowing me to leave here peacefully and not throw this bag in the water or better yet puncture it with this little pin knife. Amazing how a small of weapon could do so much damage to your child Master Jinn."
Pernile referred to what would happen to Obi if the knife he held cut the bag and spilled its contents.
Jinn waited. He had no desire to see what Obi-Wan needed the most to recover his midichlorians thrown out to sea, but he had no desire to be killed or worse yet have Obi-Wan taken again or killed. He weighed his options and realized what he must do.
He would have to get Obi-Wan free of his captors at all or any cost. That meant he would have to take the chance of Pernile destroying Obi's midichlorians to keep the boy alive.
The captain waited until they were finished before he spoke.
"Master Jinn just what plans do you have for me? Can I be set free as the other three were?"
"That would depend. I want the boy over here and quickly if not this saber will land in your heart when I spear you with it."
Jinn's wrath had reached abnormal proportions for any Jedi. He meant every word he said.
Captain pulled a large gun from out of the waist of his pants.
"Jinn, you will not go for me with the boy here blocking your strikes with your saber. I on the other hand have a clear shot right through your heart as well. Think a shot in the chest that makes a hole the size of a cannon shell would down a Jedi. Do Jedi die as we?"
"We die and bleed just as you "Cap". We just do it for a worthy cause. Although today will not be my day or my friends', "day to die."
The pirate captain raised his gun and aimed at Master Jinn. Jinn threw his right hand forward.
Before Qui-Gon could execute a force hold on the captain, hoping to halt the gun shot, Obi-Wan had crept around in circles under the captain's feet and jerked hard on the chain that held him. The captain fell with a hard thud to the floor.
Once down he tried to get to his gun as he attempted to right himself into a standing position. Master Jinn then executed the force hold on him. Qui-Gon bound the captain as if contained by rope around his arms and legs.
Pernile stood along the edge of the ship. The bag of Obi-Wan's precious blood and midichlorains dangled over the side.
"I am not a fighter Jinn and I never claimed to be. No, I will do my battling this way. If I am not given a free pass to walk out of here I will just drop this little bag."
Qui-Gon looked from the boy to the healer who held what was most precious to Obi-Wan Kenobi. He could very well decide Obi-Wan's fate, whether he would live his life with a confused half working mind or end up once again laying claim to the person to possess the most midichlorians to date.
Gayron had already unhooked the collar from Obi-Wan's neck. The boy seemed hesitant to even let the Jedi knight touch him. And why not, he had been betrayed by one Jedi already beside the numerous other adults since being taken from his family and Home world.
The only thing Obi knew for sure was the big master in front of him, Qui-Gon Jinn held his heart, his mind and his soul. He ran for the comfort that only in Jinn's embrace could he get..
Jinn's right hand held his saber and his left nestled the little confused boy as he aggressively argued his planned surrender for Pernile to him.
"Pernile if I were to get that bag, then I would be tempted to let you go."
The other two Jedi said not a word. They knew that was the only thing that Jinn could do faced with only a few options and only that one would partially insure Obi-Wan's recovery.
Pernile still leaned over the edge of the boat.
He allowed Qui-Gon to take a few steps forward.
The storm that Jinn had mentioned earlier had overtaken the harbor and the ship rocked furiously as they waited to see what Pernile would do. Obi-Wan cringed with each thunderous clap heard of thunder and the streaking flashes of lightening.
Pernile stood up straighter and started to pull the bag back from over the rail.
Just then from a large wall of water from out in the sea descended on the ship as it cascaded down on the pirate ship. The huge wave rocked the boat violently, sending Pernile, Xani, and Gayron crashing to the ship's floor.
When Pernile started to fall he tried to grab the edge of the ship and his hand accidentally released the bag. Jinn ran to where he watched the midichlorians-filled bag fall.. He had to pick Obi-Wan off his feet to take the little one with him.
Qui-Gon Jinn watched as Obi-Wan's midichlorians hit the hull of the ship, where hooks that secured ropes stuck out. The bag did not reach the water which would have been better. It would have at least remained intact.
Qui-Gon watched in horror as Obi's blood seeped from the torn-opened plastic bag. It painted the side of the ship a crimson red, leaving ruby lines streaking down and into the storm-churned waters of the ocean.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's chance for a future splattered on the ship and then washed out to sea..............
It only took seconds for Xani and Gayron to right themselves from stumbling when the wave hit. It took them even less time to reach Pernile and safely secure him. Gayron took the pen knife from his hand as Xanatos unclipped the dead Jedi's knight saber Pernile had taken as a souvenir.
Qui-Gon Jinn stood and remained at the side of the ship as he watched the last drips of blood drain away.
//We have won the battle but lost the war. We came here to seek Obi-Wan's midichlorians so he could get his force signature back. We will leave here with the horrific knowledge that we did not succeed this mission's directive.//
Jinn could not have been happier to have gotten the boy back safely. However their mission was two-fold. The original mission to be completed was to safely secure Obi's midichlorians. Yes they caught Pernile and the slavers so today was good, but Obi-Wan was left without his force abilities.
Now it would be a long hard struggle for the child to overcome his obstacles and Jinn did not think for a second that the council would allow Obi-Wan to stay at the temple in the condition he was in.
Qui-Gon came back from his thoughts when he felt Obi-Wan's shivering body next to him. He left the De'Crion home without his robe and the wave that rocked the ship that totally soaked him. He was freezing with the ocean's breeze turning his water soaked body into a ice cube.
Jinn put Obi under his own robe as they headed to the authorities to turn the "Cap in. He told them of the people on the ship that were held captive and the police were forced to go and take care of getting them home.
Pernile would travel home with the Jedi on their ship and face the Jedi council for his punishment.
No one said a word about the former slave, Obi-Wan's lost powers. They feared the wrath of Jinn if they spoke a word about what would become of the child. Gayron worried that Qui-Gon would not allow Xanatos come with him. All in their own way had their misery.
Obi-Wan held the most in his mind and heart. Though he was not even aware of what might have been the worst damage done to him; the loss of his powers with possibly no chance of getting them back. He only knew now that people, even some of the Jedi could not be trusted. He feared all people now. It made no difference. He did not want Xani to be close to him.
Jinn tried to have Obi lay down on the ship and rest but when Gayron came in the little cabin where he tried to rest, Obi-Wan ran to Jinn. He knelt at his feet in a submissive pose, clinging again to the only person he was willing to have touch him, his master. ####
Late into the night Jinn had finally found a way for Obi-Wan to sleep. After he had put his own Jedi clothing back on he fed Obi and then laid his large warm robe by his feet where he sat in the pilot's chair. Obi-Wan laid on it and wrapped his too-small arm around the ankle of the master and fell asleep.
Qui-Gon felt the boy was more open now and could feel the waves of comfort he sent him. Xanatos had gone to the little cot in the back to sleep and Gayron flopped down in the chair next to Jinn and attempted sleep but it did not come.
Jinn looked over to see the worn-out knight who had done his share in the battle to regain Obi-Wan. Jinn was grateful and would not forget the man's help.
"I plan to go along with you and Xanatos in front of the council if you decide to ask for him to become your apprentice."
Gayron looked shocked.
"Thank you Master Jinn. You know I never planned this willingly. I mean I did not intend to steal Xanatos from you."
"I know Gayron. I have had a lot of time to think about it. You could not steal what I did not have. I did not have a full working viable bond with Xanatos. I never did. He himself can tell you that. Maybe he already has."
Gayron only nodded his agreement to let Qui-Gon know that he and Xani had discussed the wavering bond between master and apprentice. Jinn continued.
"Then when Obi-Wan came and tried to assert his bond, the bond with Xani just splintered into little pieces leaving nothing big enough to put back together. I am not sure though what will happen to Obi. The bond between us lays there weak but unfailing totally. I suppose the council will have it broken by the healers."
"You mean you don't think the council might change their mind and let you take Kenobi as your apprentice, though they have stated he was too old to train? If Xanatos and I do complete our bond that would leave you alone Master Jinn."
Qui-Gon winced at the thought. In the darkened cabin, Gayron could not see the pain etched deeply in the tired drawn face of Master Jinn.
The older the master got, the less he liked his solitude. Training a young apprentice brought the needed companionship and more fullness to his life. Even though their bond was weak, he would miss the camaraderie Xani and he shared. Aside from the weak bond Xani, had been a good partner and even an amusing and comfortable fixture in his life for quite awhile. He would be missed.
Jinn then turned to Gayron and smiled.
"I will survive Knight Gayron. It will not be the first time I have been alone and I don't think it will be the last. I don't think the council can possibly let Obi-Wan stay. Yes he could have been powerful and now I would willingly fight for his station as my apprentice, however without the midchlorians he can not even think of becoming an apprentice. It would take a long time even for his mind to become unscrambled. He has said only a few words since Pernile damaged his mind. The bond we have goes in and out like a bad comm connection. NO Obi-Wan's fate may just be the Agricrorps . I can only hope it won't be the one on Bandomeer. I think the life there would be to rough for him as he is now."
Jinn wandered back into his thoughts and listened to the quiet of the ship with only the hum of the engine. Well that was all the noise heard until he smiled again at the light snoring that let him know Gayron had finally sunken into a hopefully peaceful sleep."
################
Master Windu with two knights, awaited the arrival of Jinn's ship. They stood in the long corridor and watched as Xanatos and Gayron led Master Pernile out to the knights, who took him to a force shielded cell to await a trial by the Jedi. This was Jedi business and would be held by the Jedi tribunal made up of council members and two or three other senior masters.
Mace noted with a little bit of disgust that Jinn could not help in delivering Pernile to the waiting knights because his hands were full of Obi-Wan Kenobi. The situation was not good for his friend Qui-Gon.
//I only did what I did in front of the council for Qui-Gon's best interest. He will see what I recommended to the council was truly the best thing for him. He just has to get away from the little homeless boy, Obi-Wan to know that.//
Just as the knights led Pernile away, Jinn could not help but notice three healers advance toward them.
"Mace tell the healers to go back we are in no need of medical care."
Jinn waited for he knew the healers had not come to assist the Jedi, they had come to drag Obi-Wan back to the healers' ward."
"Qui-Gon you know very well they are not here for you. They are here to take the boy back to the healers where he belongs."
Obi-Wan must have understood the tall dark good-looking master, for he stepped behind Master Jinn as if to be shielded from the healers and get added protection from the big master. Jinn reached back with his left hand and tried to calm the boy by patting his arm.
"Master Windu I was unwillingly made Obi-Wan's guardian and now I plan to see it through until arrangements can be made, or something decided what to do with him."
"Then my old friend you can relinquish your obligations of him, for the council, along with Master Yoda has decided what should be done with him. Now let the healers take him."
Mace waited minute and still Jinn made no move to hand over the boy.
Xanatos and Gayron looked on and Mace noticed it.
"I think the two of you can find something to eat and clean up. We will debrief you in about three hours. Now GO!"
That last two words, "NOW GO" came out a little harsher and much louder than the council master had intended, but he knew he had a very difficult and delicate situation between his friend and himself.
The two masters waited until the others had left. Mace waved the healers off and they moved back toward the other end of the corridor, but they had no intention of going without the Kenobi child.
"Look Qui, do not make this harder than it has to be."
Jinn still stung from being told his old master went along with taking Obi-Wan away from him. Always before, in a way, Yoda had pushed the child on him.
//My old master told me to listen to the force. I have and it tells me to keep this child. Why did he turn against me? //
Jinn clearly felt betrayed by his former master, Yoda.
"Are you telling me Mace, that Master Yoda went along with this, I mean to have the boy removed from my custody? And you say the council has decided what to do with him, then what? Do you plan to tell me?"
" Just because you are the most favored Jedi at the temple or anywhere in the galaxy in Master Yoda's opinion, does not mean he would not vote against you if he felt he was doing the right thing and listening to the force. He always has your best interest in mind so you know what we plan for the child is the "right thing to do?"
"Then why aren't you telling me what is planned? Where is Master Yoda? It is not because I am favored by him that we agree so much, we think alike and follow the force as well."
"DO Not imply I don't follow the force. Don't get me wrong Jinn I do not begrudge your favoritism in Yoda's eyes. I know it does not just derive from being his most beloved padawan, but also from your expert Jedi abilities. However even he has gone along with the council and you will have too also. He will not champion your cause on this my old friend."
Jinn raised and eyebrow and cocked his head to meet Mace's glaring stare. Qui-Gon had been talking to Mace but his gaze had rested on Obi-Wan the entire time.
"Is that flattery I here in those words Mace? If it is, it still will not curb my temper or change my mind. Obi-Wan is coming back home where he belongs."
Mace was clearly getting upset with his friend and big master, Qui-Gon.
"Listen Master Jinn, you do not run this temple, no one does on their own. Not you or Master Yoda. The boy's fate has been sealed and not your anger or your words can change it. Now let him go with the healers."
Mace was still unwilling to tell Jinn what the council had planned for the boy and Qui-Gon knew he would not like their decision or Mace would have told him of Obi's fate.
Qui-Gon now turned head to head and eye to eye with his friend. He was not going to let them take Obi-Wan to the healers. The boy had offered no words in his defense, but Jinn could feel the little skeletal-like frame of Obi-Wan tremble as the two big masters battled his fate back and forth.
Mace motioned for the healers come forward.
"Don't do this Mace. We have been friends for a long time to end it now, like this."
"Yes we have Qui but we have been Jedi longer and always first in our lives. Do not take that away by defending one little child that no one will miss once he has been gone a few weeks, even you."
Mace knew that sounded extremely cruel but he had to get through to his friend someway. Qui-Gon had let the little boy take over his rational thinking and most of all, his heart, Mace realized. Once he thought more clearly Mace reasoned to himself, Jinn would see this was for the best, although he had not yet told the master what the council had planned for Obi-Wan. Now that in its self would create another battle between Jinn and even all the council members.
The healers watched the confrontation as it seemed to escalate between Qui and Mace.. Concern for the two masters was evident in the alarmed stare of the three healers.. They had never seen the two old friends confront each other with so much harshness in their voices.
Just then from down the hall came a tapping sound. Both masters looked up to see Yoda bounding down the corridor in a high rate of speed, at least for him. As he walked toward the two, Qui and Mace, he continually tapped his gimer stick to get their attention, so maybe the arguing would stop.
"Not a person in the temple gifted with the force did not hear you, have they not? Stop this in front of the boy you should, Both of you."
When Yoda spoke last, he directed his stare at his old padawan.
"Good Master Yoda. I am glad you are here . Now you can talk some sense into you former apprentice. I think he lets the boy there rule him now."
Yoda raised his gimer stick to silence Master Windu.
"Enough I said. Should have gotten me Master Windu before built to a blown out argument, it did. Friends you are and friends you should stay.. Not let the boy change that you should not."
"That's what I told him master. Qui has let his emotions guide his mind.."
"Said that I did not Mace. The boy another matter, friends you should stay always." Now Master Jinn, allow the boy to go with the Healers you should for now. Explain personally I will."
Master Jinn looked down at his old master in astonishment. He had always told him to listen to the force he and now Yoda wanted him to ignore it. He could not though, find it in his heart to be angry with Yoda or not heed his command. Besides Jinn thought for just a split second he saw his former master wink.
Yoda directed the healers with a hand motion to come and take Obi-Wan away . Once in the arms of one healer, of a speices Jinn could not think of right then, the boy started screaming at the top of his lungs. All three masters were alarmed and concerned for the little one, as the healer started to drag Obi-Wan down the corridor. Jinn only looked at Master Yoda with pathelically sad blue eyes.
Then suddenly Jinn heard Obi-Wan speak.
"MASTER PLEASE!! I WANT TO STAY WITH YOU."
Jinn was not sure if it was a mental scream or did Obi-Wan speak out loud. He did not wonder for long before he found out the answer to his question.
Yoda immediately halted the healers and Obi-wan ran to Master Jinn.
Yoda nodded to Jinn.
"Heard it I did. Good sign this is Master Jinn but the boy must go to the healers. Discuss this in private you and I will."
Jinn watched as Master Yoda walked up and very gently, without being felt by Obi-Wan laid his hand on the boy's back. Yoda pushed a force suggestion of sleep on the boy. Qui-Gon caught Obi-Wan as his legs buckled and peaceful slumber overtook him. The large healer of unknown species, came and carried the boy away."
Mace satisfied with what happened but disappointed that he had to argue its sucess, turned and walked away. Now was not a good time to make his apology to his friend, although apologize he knew he must later.
Jinn stood in the middle of the corridor with only Yoda left by his side. Mace gone, Obi-Wan, carried away, and Yoda stood very close to Qui-Gon and sent peace and calm to his padawan. Jinn gladly accepted it for the man was clearly at wits end as he watched Obi-Wan being taken away with no knowledge of what was planned for the boy. Hopefully Yoda would tell him.
Qui-Gon immediately fell to his knees in front of his former master.
"Master Yoda you have always taught me to listen to the force. I do, then what I seek what the force demands, it is overruled by the council, you yourself included. It is you and not the force that has taken Obi-Wan away from me."
Yoda let his hand rest on Qui-Gon's arm.
"Do you think capable I am of wavering in my fate in you or the force my padawan? No, what I have planned, if a success it is, will give you Obi-Wan Kenobi as your apprentice. But be done in secret it must. No one to know they should not. Obi at the healers he is for a test by an old friend of mine. Retrieve him tonight I will see you can. Council will believe you have accepted fate and wait for his departure. Stay with you he will, once council thinks you have accepted all things they say."
"We are to deceive the council in what we do to keep Obi-Wan?"
Jinn never would have thought Master Yoda would have done anything like the deceit of the other council members to attain what he wanted.
"Deceive all and everyone we should if succeed in this we do. Know what you seek Qui-Gon. Seek the boy as your apprentice you do. Done correctly this is, Obi-Wan Kenobi, your apprentice he will be.……….."
"Time it is Padawan to go home, clean up, and then meet me at my flat you will. Eat together and to the council meeting we will go. Much to discuss this day before the council you have."
Jinn started to agree to Yoda's commands but waited.
"Master Yoda shouldn't I see to Xani. I mean he needs to eat as well as I?"
"Know you do as well as I, see to Xani no longer up to you it is. Gayron knows his job in principle, I think he does. Make a fine master he will. Nothing meant by this padawan but stronger their bond as master and apprentice than the one you had with Xani ."
"I know that all too well of what you speak and it brings me a certain sadness for myself but hope for my former padawan, Xanatos."
Master Qui-Gon Jinn had finally made the last transition of breaking the bond with Xani. He admitted the boy was not his padawan but his "former" apprentice now.
"Good! Heart you have Master Jinn. Sometimes too big for own good. Still settle what Xanatos did on Telos we must. Think he did not plan to betray the Jedi. Thoughts of improving his relationship with you he did if more power he had. See to it, defend him you do before the council."
"I know he did not plan to betray me, but sometimes I think hints of darkness lies in Xani. I can't help it Master Yoda I sometimes feel that way."
"Why the bond could not be completed lack of trust it was. Lack in total trust you had not for him bond destined to fail bond was. Not your fault it is.. Now hope, trust you have in this little one of yours for need it Obi-Wan will to survive his apprenticeship if apprentice he becomes. Much scrutiny he will be under the council's watchful eyes. Harder for him it will be. Always waiting for him to fail some of the council will be."
"I will see we both survive master. I only hope I won't fail him as I did Xanatos."
Yoda hit the other master lightly on his chins with his gimer stick.
"See that you never say that again Qui-Gon Jinn. Failed no one you have. Much courage it takes today to give an apprentice up when your future not clear if another there is ready for you. Hope I do we succeed and Obi-Wan Kenobi fills that void he does."
########Back at the healers ward.###########
In a closed off room, a new and most curious Master healer was going over the vitals of Obi-Wan Kenobi. This healer that had just come for a visit and supposedly observation of other healers at other Jedi temples insisted he needed no assistance with the little boy in a deep sleep, put there by a force suggestion of his brother, Master Yoda.
Yes, this strange and mysterious master healer was Master Yeri, twin brother to Master Yoda. He seldom ventured from his home temple on Vorhies. His medical techniques and discoveries were renown amongst the Jedi. He was sought out for many difficult medical cases of the Jedi. He would mostly study from his temple and did not leave, but this was a special case.
Master Yeri was asked by a special person to intercede and come up with a cure for Obi-Wan. Master Yeri required the assistance of a little step stool to successfully reach his patient in bed.
As soon as Yoda had heard of what happened on Telos and knew that his former padawan was safe and headed back to the temple he planted himself down in the library of the temple surrounded by dusty ledgers that held the Jedi past.
In the back of his mind Yoda recalled similar happening down thorugh the history of the Jedi. Not where the midchlorians were harvested as Pernile had done but a few Jedi down through history had for various reasons, including mysterious midichlorian eating viruses, lost their force abilities. Yoda also seemed to have remembered an unusual and possibly deadly cure.
If successful the Jedi would start to regenerate his midichlorians. If it didn't work, death was almost assured. Blood from one securely bonded to the other was transfused into the blood stream of the afflicted person. If bonded securely it would succeed and blood match not necessary their blood. It must always occur between Master and apprentice with a verystrong bond, or death of the blood recipient would occur.
Qui-Gon Jinn would not be in any danger, but the procedure could have a dangerous outcome for the little former slave. If not a success, then death would be the outcome for him.
########In Yoda's apartment###########
"Eat this you should. Need your strength you will for what must be done."
Jinn looked down at the hearty stew of meat and vegetables and had to agree it did look sumptuous.
"Master Yoda I have listened to how you have explained this medical procedure and I have to tell you it sounds very dangerous for the boy."
"Promised you I did not that certain amount of risks would not accompany the possible cure."
"Risk," do you call the death of Obi-Wan a risk? Then you tell me as his guardian while he does not think clearly I will be responsible for making the decision whether to let him take that "risk" and have the procedure done? Maybe you ask too much of me my old master."
"Maybe."
Yod sat a crossed from Jinn and ate his stew. He watched his former padawan with great interest, taking in all his little movements and mannerisms he knew so well from Jinn being his padawan. He was not sure Jinn had it in him to make the call which might end Obi-Wan's life instantly.
"Padawan of mind I know ask much of you I do. Only thing you truly need to know is if the force sent you this boy. If indeed it did and you know the bond has potential to be strong then when your blood is injected into Obi-Wan he will receive your midichlorians and they will over the next year multiply."
"If though there is no bond and it is just the need of a child powerful with the force to have someone to love him, then he will die for your blood and his matched they are not. Your midchlorians will slowly clog the child's vital organs one by one until is death is assured.. Nothing left to lose for the boy I see it that way. Recover to normal mental capacity he never will without the help of my brother Master Healer Yeri."
"Much risk we all take If discovered we are that deceit we attempt and go against the council wishes might be in deep trouble, but if done then the council will have to see it was the will of the force . Well if lives the child does.
"What happens if he doesn't live Master Yoda?"
"Then more than likely put of the Jedi order you, Yeri, and I will be, for nothing less than murder is what we will have committed. Risk for all of us. Brother and I willing to take that risk. So sure I am Obi bonds with you by the force its self directing him. Now you must decide if ready to take the chance of losing your Jedi master status to help the boy."
"How will it take to know with any certainty that my midichlorians have effectively establish their multiplying within Obi-Wan's blood stream?"
"Two weeks at the most, my twin brother informs me. Until then stall we will ,the council's persistent desire to ship the boy to Agricorps. Survive Bandomeer in his state he will not. To me guilty of murder the council will be for sending him there. Council though does not see what I see for the boy's future if there he goes."
Jinn knew his answer would have to be yes to this possible procedure that could result in killing the boy he so much now wanted to keep as his apprentice. Jinn agreed with Master Yoda completely. Obi- Wan could not survive the rigors of the demands that would be placed on him on Bandomeer.
Qui-Gon was familiar with the "Crops" of Bandomeer. Horror stories of its rough and rugged life for the initiates sent there that did not succeed in being taken an a master's apprentice, was known to all those in the Jedi order. Difficult for those who still possessed the force and were strong and healthy young people but Jinn thought impossible for anyone without some protection from the force..
Obi-Wan Kenobi could not and would not survive any lengthy stay in the Agricorps on Bandomeer………………………………...
The council was already assembled and Xanatos and Gayron stood waiting for Master Jinn too join them.
//Master Yoda was certainly right. We will have a great deal to discuss in front the of the council today. Hope I am able to be as deceitful as Yoda seems to think he can be.//
Jinn has to shake is head in wonder of the last words he just spoke. To have said them about Yoda was comical, yet unimaginable.
Xani and Gayron turned their heads to the main door when they heard the clicking of Jinn's boots on the worn-out and overly waxed floors of the council chambers.
What they, along with the council masters saw was a hulk of a master with the decorum of serene stoicism projected by Qui-Gon Jinn. His walk and air of confidence; just his overall look epitomized a Jedi Master, a perfect Jedi Master. This Master Qui-Gon Jinn had it together. Not one master on the council doubted his worth to them or his loyalty to the Jedi order.
That was not what the man himself felt about his entrance to the council chambers.
//I feel like an eleven-year initiate here to get their "hands slapped" for not listening to their master instructor in class. //
Jinn felt small this day. He did not know if it was because he was deceiving the council masters or that this time he was more than likely there for a reprimand of how he dealt with Obi-Wan and not why he usually was there; for some kind of praise for a job well done on a mission.
"Know of why you are here you three do?"
Yoda with eyes lids drooped to where there were nothing more than two thin slits for him to see from and his finely pointed ears seem to twitch in sympathy nervousness for the three Jedi before him. If they had not known better, the look he gave the three who waited to know their future, would have brought fear. However there was not one being at the temple that did not know, love, and respect the little green troll of the master. All knew they had nothing to fear from their High Master Yoda, central figure of the Jedi council.
Yoda did not need an answer to his question and they gave none. They just waited for him to begin.
"First the council wishes to commend you for your retrieving of Master Pernile and the capture of another slavery ship. Many out there are, but two have been eliminated because of you three Jedi."
Yoda referred to the first ship also which had originally taken Obi-Wan.
Jinn bowed as acceptation of the thank you from Yoda for all of them. He waited with anticipation for the meeting here that would deal with Xani and then with Obi-Wan.
"Now get to matters not comfortable we are with I think. Deal with the bonding of Xanatos Crion to Knight Gayron we do. What say you on this situation Master Jinn?"
Jinn's face grew a bit pink.
How Qui-Gon dreaded to get stand before his piers and admit he was unable to form a bond strong enough to teach this padawan, Xanatos. He felt like a failure even though Yoda had assured him he was not.
"I am deeply saddened to say I and Xani could not form a strong bond. The force put Knight Gayron in the right position at the right time and a bond formed spontaneously between my padawan and Knight Gayron. I wish to stand before the council this day and give them my blessing to completely form a training bond together. The bond with Xanatos that I once shared is now broken, quite easily I might add."
Whispers of condemnation and astonishment rang through the echo-carrying chamber. Usually when a bond was broken both master and apprentice felt at least some discomfort and pain. They most always required a trip to the healers, both physical and mental, but not from the breaking of this bond. Most council masters knew that the bond must have been as fragile and weak and finely spun glass by the break of the bond coming with such ease..
There was one on the council who refused to accept the explanation of Jinn's failed bond with his apprentice.. He still felt what he was doing was for the good of his best friend Qui. Master Windu spoke up.
"You must understand Master Jinn that we, the council have to be a little confused. You tell us of a very weak bond yet all along you two have worked well on your missions with no complaint from you, Padawan Xanatos, or us on how your missions were conducted. Why now is Xanatos such a burden? So much so that you are wiling to sacrifice him for another? Could it be your lame attempt to get the other boy, Obi-Wan as your apprentice and know that two padawans you can not have?"
Xanatos was livid. For his master's best friend to make such an accusation against a man as noble as his master, well former master, was unthinkable and he would not let it pass with his "two cents" being heard. He stepped forward.
Qui-Gon and Gayron tried to stop him, but to Jinn's surprise Master Yoda waved them both off. He seemed to have a little smile on his face as if he knew Xani planned to blast Master Windu for his cruel remarks about Xani's Master and Yoda would be delighted and amused to here every word of it.
"Master Windu forgive me but you know your best friend better than I and you know that is not the way it happened. Many times my master and I discussed the weakness of our bond. We mediated and struggled with the problem all through my apprenticeship. Yes, it weakened more by Obi-Wan's bond trying to assert its self in my master's mind. However even then, Master Jinn tried very hard to stop Kenobi's bond and strengthen ours. That would not happen though. Then when Knight Gayron and I met something just clicked. I know that may sound too simple for you council masters to comprehend, but that is what happened. It was as if we were meant to be joined as master an apprentice. You can prevent us from being so. However, it will not take away or diminish the bond we already have. We wish only to make it official and establish a strong training bond. I only want to become a Jedi knight one day and now that I know of the bond with Knight Gayron I truly believe I can be successful. The force has deemed it so. Will the council masters resend the order by the force its self?"
Master Yoda tapped his gimer stick on the wooden step that encircled his chair. All the council masters heard the tap but none but one looked up. They all knew it was to draw Master Windu's attention and that more than likely it was a subtle reprimand to the tall bald Master by Yoda.
Master Windu looked to Master Yoda and knew that the master was not happy with his remarks. Why would he thought Windu.
//They were directed at his padawan, Qui-Gon//
Words spoken by this young man could not have brought home the point better if they came from a seasoned master, trained in diplomacy and speech.
"Eloquent and to the point I would say Master Windu. What say you? Deny the force what it wills you would? Think to ignore the force's bidding you do?
Windu let his anger show.
"You think I am not so faithful to the living force, that I would not heed its will Master Yoda? If the bond demands forming with Xanatos and Gayron so be it. Nevertheless there is the issue of Jinn and Kenobi. I know Jinn wants that boy for his apprentice. All of these council members should be aware of it. I know he sent that little memorandum to us before this hearing started; stating he was willing to give the boy up, but also willing to keep him until that time arrangements can be made to ship him to Bandomeer. I tell you who sit here today in judgment of my old friend, he has something up his sleeve. I guarantee his thinking has not changed when it comes to the boy."
There were more whispers and gasps. All the council members were shocked that Master Windu would level such horrible accusations on his once best friend. Even going to the extreme of saying he lied and was deceiving the council for his own gain to get Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Master Eeth Koth was particularily outraged by the accusations and he wasn't even a close friend of Qui-Gon's. Certainly not as close as everyone had assumed Windu and Jinn were.
"Master Windu your statements about Master Jinn are not only uncalled for without proof, they could even be considered libelous on your part; worthy of a censure from we the other council members. Care to share the proof of these accusations?"
Windu kept silent and looked to his old friend Qui. Jinn had reached his boiling point for what Windu said. Not that he wasn't in part speaking the truth, but that he chose not to side with Qui-Gon . He had opted instead to make Qui-Gon and Master Yoda's little project harder. It would have in fact been easier had they another on their side that they could tell and trust, but Windu would not be the one, Qui-Gon supposed.
Qui-Gon abruptly decided it was his turn to be heard. He took the two steps required when wanting to address the council. Windu stared on as Master Yoda nodded his agreement for Qui-Gon to speak. Now it was the big master's turn to throw venom back in his friends face and so he began his own brutal attack.
"You my old friend have overstepped your boundaries as a council master and as my dearest friend."
Several masters nodded their agreement until they saw Yoda flash them a look of warning.
"This is twice now you have taken an intrusive interest with my private most intimate life. Now and once when I got off the ship when you had Obi-Wan removed from my care. I have listened to your spewing of garbage to my face much more than is required of me to take from a council member, let alone my friend. You my old friend know me well enough not to push your opinions on me. Have you lost all trust in me as a person, a master, and most of all a friend to sit here and try to convince the council members I would do something not worthy of a Jedi, of my station as a Jedi master? Has our friendship and mutual respect dwindled so much while I never even knew it faltered in your eyes. Let me assure you Mace it has not diminished in my view."
FIRE AND ICE, Jinn however did try to soften his words at the end of his speech.
Windu dropped his head in shame. He had said a lot about this master his friend. Now he thought he had overstepped the bounds not just of a council master but more importantly as a comrade to Qui-Gon. Guilt now weighed heavily on the master's shoulders and he would speak against this man his former "crèche partner in crime", no more.
"Enough said in these chambers there has been. Maybe too much to correct I fear. Unless a master hear can speak against Xanatos Crion and Knight Gayron then I decree it so, bond to form between them. Same goes for Master Jinn if no council master can voice an objection and give its reason, then Obi-Wan Kenobi to remain in his care until arrangements made for his transfer to the Agricorps. No reason for the child to suffer until he has too ."
Yoda's last statement was in a way condemning the council for even agreeing to Obi-Wan's move to the Argricorps.
Jinn held his breath. He hoped for the friendship that he wanted to one day again share with Mace that he would not voice any more objections. If he had, it might have been enough to finalize their friendship entirely. However the master who had been so vocal, Master Windu, held his tongue and things were as Yoda said they would be.
Jinn bowed to the council masters, congratulated the new master and apprentice, and left immediately to retrieve his ward, Obi-Wan from the healers.……………………
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Please don't think I am trying to pressure you into posting. I plan to finish this story anyway. It is just that sometimes when you work hard on a story, I really *enjoy* someone telling you they *enjoyed* reading it.
PEACE ewen