Title: Past, Present, Future
Author: Kadi-Wan Kenobi
Rating: PG
Archive: Please ask first.
Warnings: None.
Disclaimer: Star Wars belongs to GL and his companies. No money is being made off of this. I'm just borrowing them for fun.
Qui-Gon walked down the Temple halls towards his quarters. Several Padawans moved to the other side of the hall as he passed, watching him go with large eyes with whispers of 'Master Jinn' coming from their lips. He didn't even notice them, his mind on other things.
Once again, he was to watch Initiates hoping to be chosen as Padawans. Or more specifically, his Padawan.
Why did Yoda always insist that he come? What would it take to make the green troll see that it was just a waste of his time? Never again would he take an apprentice. His heart couldn't take it.
Nodding stiffly in greeting to another Master, he continued on his way. Maybe he should go talk to Yoda.
Yes, that's what he would do. He would tell his former Master that he would not watch another group of hopeful Initiates and tell him to send him on another mission.
'Tell Yoda what to do?' A small voice in the back of his head chuckled.
Finally, Qui-Gon came to his quarters. The voice, as annoying as it was, was right. If he did argue with Yoda, he would probably end up having to take the Initiates on a field trip with a bruised shin.
Taking a deep breath, Qui-Gon released his frustration into the Force. He would humor Yoda and watch the Initiates, then be free for another year. Free from Yoda and his persistence.
And free from the memories.
*****
Qui-Gon headed towards the quarters of Initiate Obi-Wan Kenobi. Earlier, he had seen the boy spar. His fighting style had reminded him of another young man. A young man that had held that same look of determination....
No, he would not think of Xanatos. He was in the past. He was gone forever.
Qui-Gon shook his head. Yoda would give him a whack on the knee when he found out the reason Qui-Gon had asked for the number to the boy's quarters. His former master was probably sitting in his room gleefully, thinking he had won the battle and his stubborn Padawan was finally going to take another apprentice.
"Qui-Gon!" Someone shouted behind him. He spun around to see Mace Windu jogging over to him.
"Hello Mace."
"So, Yoda finally dragged you back here." His friend smiled.
"Why else would I come back?"
Mace's smile faded a notch. "Well, since you're in town, I was wondering-"
"No."
"I haven't even finished my question yet."
"Last time you asked me for a favor, I ended up teaching 100 6th graders about the Jedi by myself."
"Hey, its not my fault that a Council meeting was called that day."
Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow skeptically.
"Look. I just wanted to know if you want to join us for Winter's Thanks dinner tomorrow?"
"Winter's Thanks?"
"You know, the holidays. Most wonderful time of year. Exchanging gifts, lots of food, getting together with friends-"
"I know what it is Mace, I just did not know it was tomorrow."
"Then, you don't have plans?"
"No."
"So you'll come?"
"Thank you, but I don't think so. I'll be leaving the next day and would like to rest. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must be going." Nodding to his friend, he started down the hall once again.
Mace watched his friend retreating, shaking his head sadly. "What have you done to yourself, old friend?"
*****
Obi-Wan looked down at the present in his hands with a smile. It was a small, crystal glurp fish from Mon Calamari. He had seen it at a small shop during the last field trip the Creche Masters had dared to take them on and had known it was perfect for Bant.
She was going to love it.
Tomorrow, the Creche Masters were holding a big party for all the initiates. He was going with his friends: Bant, Garen, and Reeft. Just then, there was a loud knock on his door.
Obi-Wan frowned. He wasn't expecting anyone. Opening the door, he jumped back in surprise.
There stood Master Qui-Gon Jinn, one of the best known Masters in the Temple. He was like a super hero to the Initiates.
And here he was standing at his door.
"Um...come in, Master Jinn." He stuttered, standing back. The Master walked in, immediately turning to him. Obi-Wan watched him, slightly nervous as the Master studied him for a moment.
Could it be? Was the great Master Jinn going to ask him to be his Padawan Learner?
His heart seemed to be in his throat, pounding loudly.
The seconds ticked away, each seemeing to take an eternity.
"Where did you learn to fight like that?" Master Jinn suddenly asked.
Obi-Wan frowned. "From our sparring master."
Qui-Gon's eyes seemed to bore into him. "Initiates don't usually fight so aggressively." Obi-Wan winced inwardly. Once again, he had made a mistake. Why couldn't he ever do anything right?
"I...I thought it would be best if the fight ended quickly." He said, sort of telling the truth. There was no way he would tell the Master that he had been showing off a tiny bit for him.
"I see." The Master murmured. "Good evening." Master Jinn started to walk out of the room.
"Master Jinn!" Obi-Wan called before he could think twice.
The Master stopped, turning to look at him.
"Please. I beg you to accept me as your Padawan Learner." He said, then began to lose his nerve. "My..my birthday is next month."
"There is no shame in working for the Agri-Corps." The Master said, then disappeared out into the hall.
Obi-Wan flopped down on his bed in despair.
So, that was that.
No more Masters were scheduled to come looking for a Padawan. He would be a farmer.
Well, if that was the case, he would enjoy himself tomorrow at Winter Thanks.
One last time.
*****
Qui-Gon settled down into his favorite chair. In his hands he held a cup of Alderranian Tea and an old book. He knew he could get the same story on a datapad, but he liked the feeling of a real book in his hands. The feel of the paper, the weight of the book, the frayed edges...everything. It helped him relax more easily.
Taking a sip of his tea, he turned to where he had left off.
Suddenly, a warning tingled in the back of his mind. He looked up, stretching out with his senses.
Nothing.
He was the only one in the quarters. Shrugging, he focused back on his book.
The warning came back. This time, Qui-Gon placed his cup and book on the small table by his chair and stood up. Holding his lightsaber, he searched every part of his quarters.
Once again, nothing.
Qui-Gon shook his head as he once again sat down. He must be imagining it. He was just being foolish. What could possibly be a danger to him here, in the temple?
But it wouldn't go away. Wouldn't leave him alone.
Finally, he gave up. He couldn't concentrate on the story any longer with that light tingling in the back of his mind. Turning off the lights, he headed for bed.
Still, the feeling that something was going to happen stayed with him.
*****
Qui-Gon was awakened by the chiming of the old chrono sitting on his nightstand.
He frowned sleepily. Who had set it for midnight?
The warning suddenly screamed to him, causing him to sit up. A bright light flashed through the room, blinding him temporarily. He was instantly standing, lightsaber ignited, waiting for an attack.
None came.
The light dimmed to a faint glow. Finally, his vision cleared.
Qui-Gon stared in shock at the figure standing in front of his window. He couldn't believe his eyes.
Standing, well, more like floating, there was a ghost.
He had never really believed in force ghosts, but here one was, standing in his bedroom. Even Mace could pull a prank like this.
It appeared to be a little girl. By her clothes, he guessed she had once been an initiate. She couldn't be more than 5.
"Who...who are you?" He managed to ask, still staring at the glowing figure.
"I am the ghost of Winter past." She said in a small voice.
"What do you want with me?"
"I am here for your welfare and salvation." She replied calmly, with a seriousness that no five year old ever had, or should had.
"Welfare? Salvation?" Qui-Gon asked in surprise. "What do you care of my Welfare and Salvation?"
"I am here for reasons I cannot tell."
"I don't need any help." He said stubbornly.
"True or untrue, that may be. Decided, it will be. Up to you, it is." The child said simply.
Qui-Gon frowned. What was that supposed to mean?
"Come, take my hand." She held it out to him.
He found himself reaching out to take her small, delicate hand between his fingers before he realized what was happening. Deciding that this must be a dream, he didn't pull back.
It was best to let it just run its course.
*****
Qui-Gon suddenly found himself in a completely different place.
Now, instead of his dark bedroom, he was on a path that wound through a lovely forest. Sun peeped through the branches of the trees, warming whatever it could touch with it's light. As a light breeze playfully danced around the ground, blowing fallen leaves around his feet. He could just make out a house through the grove. Somewhere in nearby, he could hear the sound of a river.
Qui-Gon froze.
The fragrence of the Muja blossoms surrounded him. Above, he could hear the twittering of the Davasl birds.
How was it possible?
"You recognize this place?" The young girl asked. He looked down at her, surprised to find her still there.
"Yes. Of course. This is my...my home." He said quietly, sounding like if he said it aloud, it would all disappear. He was beginning to have his doubts about the dream theory.
Qui-Gon looked around, spotting the sparkling river a few meters away. "That there is the River of Light." He found himself getting excited, feeling more like the young Padawan he once was. Looking the other way, he pointed at another familiar sight. "And over there is a large, old oark tree. I used to climb it during visits home."
Just then, the faint sound of laughter reached his ears.
Qui-Gon took off at a run towards the house. Running up the stone steps, he reached to open the door.
His hand went right through the knob.
Not having anything hard in the way to catch him, Qui-Gon flew through the door, landing with a crash onto the floor of the old house.
On instinct, he sprang to his feet instantly.
How had that happened?
Turning, he started to inspect the door. Reaching out, he stuck his hand through the door, then pulled back. It just felt like walking through a cold mist, nothing more.
Laughter once again caught his attention.
He headed down the short hall to the living room.
It was exactly like he remembered. The whole house had a rustic, antique smell to it. A rug his mother had made when she was a girl lay in the middle of the floor. A large fireplace crackled warmly, sending rays of light and warmth throughout the room, even though heating units were installed in the walls and would have been more convenient to use them. Several old, cushioned chairs and an old couch were placed in front of the fire in various places. Several cushions had large indentations in them, showing where the preferred seats were. Right above it, a chrono ticked down the minutes, giving out a large clang on the hour. He had always loved to help his father wind it up each morning after breakfast.
His father.
Looking over, he saw his father sitting in the largest of the chairs, pipe in his mouth. He never lit the pipe, said he would never smoke because it was bad for the heart but he liked the feel of it resting in his mouth.
Qui-Gon had always suspected it was because his mother would kick him out if he smoked inside the house.
Looking at the chair right across from his father, was his mother.
She had a cup of tea in her hands. Dried Muja blossoms floated on the top. Qui-Gon could remember the first time he had been brave enough to try it. That was the first and last time he had a sip for about 10 years. It has been too strong for him at the time. Now he had a jar of it back in his quarters, which he used to make a cup of tea almost every night.
Both his parents were smiling down at someone on the floor. Qui-Gon stared at the small boy.
It was him.
A 11 year old him, but him just the same. He was lying on his stomache on the floor, watching Master Yoda tell one of his many tales about when he was a Padawan, as he twirled the newly made Padawan braid with one of his fingers.
None of them even noticed him.
"This is only a memory from your past." The ghost said.
"Yes. I remember this day clearly." Qui-Gon found himself smiling. "Yoda had just taken me as his Padawan Learner. I felt so awkward at first around him, being so much taller than he. It was a great jest for the other Padawans. But then he brought me home for Winter Thanks, and got to know my family. Every night he would tell us stories of different missions he had been on. He soon became part of our family. We spent ever Winter's Thanks with them after that. From then on, he was more of a father to me than a teacher. Even if he was just a little green troll."
The child smiled softly. "Come, there is more we must see."
Slowly, the world began to fade once again.
*****
Qui-Gon looked around at the town the spirit had now taken him to. He instantly recognized it. How could he not?
Telos.
Around them a soft snow fell. Dusk was just descending. The windows of the houses let out a soft glow from inside. He could hear the sounds of several parties being held for Winters Thanks.
Just then, a lone figure caught his attention. He watched as it walked silently towards one of the larger and quieter houses. The figure knocked on the door, which opened a few minutes later. The man instantly motioned for the lone figure to enter, shutting the door behind him.
Qui-Gon looked through the window, avoiding touching the wall. There was something very disquieting about being able to walk through objects. Inside, the figure was just lowering his hood.
"I am Qui-Gon Jinn. You contacted the Temple about a child who might be strong in the Force?" He asked.
Yes. It was him. A much younger him, but not as young as before. He had been recently knighted. His hair was still just growing out of the Padawan haircut.
"Yes. My son." The man, Crion, said, motioning for the younger Qui-Gon to follow him into another room. Qui-Gon sighed, before quickly walking through the wall and quickly walked after them.
Inside was a cradle. A young child, no more that 6 months, slept peacefully in it, oblivious to the changes about to be brought upon him. The knight walked over to him and looked down at the boy. Expertly, he took a blood sample from the sleeping child in seconds. The boy let out a small yawn, then opened his eyes, staring up at him.
Qui-Gon felt his heart beating faster, even though it wasn't happening to him. Just his younger self. Still, it seemed like it was he who was standing there, staring into the child's dark blue eyes. The memory stood out clearly in his mind. He had felt something click inside of him then. There had been something about the boy. So trusting and calm. But also strong in a way he had never been able to place a finger on. Qui-Gon watched as the memory played out. His younger self ending over the child, gently caressing the soft cheek as he whispered a small greeting.
"There is another Winters Thanks that was spent with this young man." The spirit spoke up behind him. Qui-Gon spun around, facing the spirit. There had been many Winters Thanks spent with this young man, but in his heart, he knew of only one she could be referring to.
"No. Please, don't show me that." Qui-Gon found himself begging the small girl.
But it was too late. They were already there.
Once again, they were standing in the town on Telos. It had completely changed. What had once been a peaceful, happy place where people had been celebrating Winter's Thanks was now completely silent and war-torn. No sounds of parties could be heard. The shutters on the windows were tightly shut. If any light was on inside, it couldn't be seen. Houses that had held joyous celebrations were now only ruins.
Qui-Gon slowly walked through the town, down the main street, past misery he had seen too often during his lifetime. He knew where he must go.
Soon, he was on a large, open plain. Snow was swirling about him, covering everything in white. He didn't feel it biting at his face or even notice it for that matter. Qui-Gon was too busy watching his worse memory play out before him.
Several meters in front of him were two figures. One stood staring at the other, who was kneeling next to a dead body sadly.
"I hate you." The kneeling figure whisperred, his voice raw with emotion.
"Padawan, listen."The older man said. The older him said, looking like a mirror image of him.
"No."
"Padawan, he was slaughtering innocent people. He had to be stopped." The other him gently lay a hand on his Padawan's shoulder. "I am so sorry."
"Why?" The Padawan asked, angry tears welling up in his eyes as he hugged the dead man to him.
"I wish I could explain why things happen like they do. Only the Force knows."
The younger man turned away. He gently slid the ring off of the dead man's finger. Staring angrily at his master, he pressed the hot ring against his cheek. The smell of burning flesh filled the air.
Xanatos removed the ring, dropping it to the ground, revealing a bloody, burnt mark in the shape of a broken circle on his cheek.
He stood up, igniting his lightsaber.
"I hate you." Xanatos said louder this time.
"Padawan, don't let your anger control you." Qui-Gon, the other Qui-Gon, pleaded, hands held out in a sign of peace. "You don't want to do this."
"Yes I do. You killed my father. My father!" Xanatos suddenly lunged at him.
The other Qui-Gon parried the attack, still pleading with his Padawan. "Xanatos. No. Don't do this."
"I won't rest until I see you dead!" The younger man yelled. "Until your blood covers the ground as my father's does."
Slowly, the battle began to fade away.
*****
Qui-Gon quietly wept as he knelt on the floor of his bedroom.
"Why do you enjoy torturing me so?" He cried, staring at the spirit who was still with him.
His heart felt like it was being ripped in two all over again. He had tried to forget that day. Since then, Winter's Thanks had never been the same. No longer was it a day of thanks and happiness, it was a day of hatred and rememberance of betrayl.
"Only shadows of the past, these images are. I do not have any control over what they are."
"Leave me." He shouted. "Leave me be! I don't want to see anymore. No more."
The young girl nodded, disappearing out of sight, leaving him alone with his grief.
*********
Qui-Gon had just laid back down, his emotions somewhat in control. Inside, his heart was once again in pieces. The scars which had covered his heart had been ripped apart. What the spirit had wanted to accomplish showing him the past, was beyond him. All she had done was remind him exactly why Winter's Thanks was his least favorite holiday.
His eyes began to drift shut.
Every light in the room turned on to it's brightest intensity.
Qui-Gon sat straight up. Just as suddenly, the lights turned off, leaving the room inc omplete darkness except for a faint glow coming from under the door.
The light was coming from the common room.
Pulling his robe on, he headed out, lightsaber ready. And stopped short.
The room had completely changed. It was filled with a warm glow that lit up every corner of the room, but he couldn't find its source. A delicious smelling dinner was laid out on the table, steaming hot. Taking a step towards it, he frowned in confusion. What was the spirit up to now?
"Welcome, Qui-Gon!" A loud, booming voice said happily. He spun around, crouching down into a fighting stance. Sitting on his chair was a large, jolly man. He had a curly, red beard and hair that reached below his shoulders, and he was dressed in the robes of a Jedi Master.
"Do I know you?" Qui-Gon asked, lowering his lightsaber. Maybe it wasn't the spirit's doing after all. If this was Mace's doing...
"No, but you've known 48 of my brothers." The man said cheerfully, pushing himself up from the chair.
"I don't recall ever meeting them." Qui-Gon studied him closer. "Who are you?"
"I am the ghost of Winter present." The man said, laughing like he had just told the most entertaining joke in all the galaxy.
Qui-Gon sighed in exasperation. Another ghost.
"Present? As in the here and now?"
"Yes! The spirit of the day of Winter's Thanks." He said, grinning.
"You are early then. The day doesn't start for another 6 hours." Qui-Gon pointed out.
"It does?" The spirit chuckled as he stepped over to the covered window. Suddenly, the blind over his wimdow shot up, revealing the sun rising over the buildings of Coruscant.
Qui-Gon's mouth dropped open. "H-how.."
For once, he was speechless.
And he had thought he would be ready for anything after what had happened earlier.
"Come." The spirit said cheerfully, strutting through his front door.
TBC.....
Author: Kadi-Wan Kenobi
Rating: PG
Archive: Please ask first.
Warnings: None.
Disclaimer: Star Wars belongs to GL and his companies. No money is being made off of this. I'm just borrowing them for fun.
Qui-Gon walked down the Temple halls towards his quarters. Several Padawans moved to the other side of the hall as he passed, watching him go with large eyes with whispers of 'Master Jinn' coming from their lips. He didn't even notice them, his mind on other things.
Once again, he was to watch Initiates hoping to be chosen as Padawans. Or more specifically, his Padawan.
Why did Yoda always insist that he come? What would it take to make the green troll see that it was just a waste of his time? Never again would he take an apprentice. His heart couldn't take it.
Nodding stiffly in greeting to another Master, he continued on his way. Maybe he should go talk to Yoda.
Yes, that's what he would do. He would tell his former Master that he would not watch another group of hopeful Initiates and tell him to send him on another mission.
'Tell Yoda what to do?' A small voice in the back of his head chuckled.
Finally, Qui-Gon came to his quarters. The voice, as annoying as it was, was right. If he did argue with Yoda, he would probably end up having to take the Initiates on a field trip with a bruised shin.
Taking a deep breath, Qui-Gon released his frustration into the Force. He would humor Yoda and watch the Initiates, then be free for another year. Free from Yoda and his persistence.
And free from the memories.
*****
Qui-Gon headed towards the quarters of Initiate Obi-Wan Kenobi. Earlier, he had seen the boy spar. His fighting style had reminded him of another young man. A young man that had held that same look of determination....
No, he would not think of Xanatos. He was in the past. He was gone forever.
Qui-Gon shook his head. Yoda would give him a whack on the knee when he found out the reason Qui-Gon had asked for the number to the boy's quarters. His former master was probably sitting in his room gleefully, thinking he had won the battle and his stubborn Padawan was finally going to take another apprentice.
"Qui-Gon!" Someone shouted behind him. He spun around to see Mace Windu jogging over to him.
"Hello Mace."
"So, Yoda finally dragged you back here." His friend smiled.
"Why else would I come back?"
Mace's smile faded a notch. "Well, since you're in town, I was wondering-"
"No."
"I haven't even finished my question yet."
"Last time you asked me for a favor, I ended up teaching 100 6th graders about the Jedi by myself."
"Hey, its not my fault that a Council meeting was called that day."
Qui-Gon raised an eyebrow skeptically.
"Look. I just wanted to know if you want to join us for Winter's Thanks dinner tomorrow?"
"Winter's Thanks?"
"You know, the holidays. Most wonderful time of year. Exchanging gifts, lots of food, getting together with friends-"
"I know what it is Mace, I just did not know it was tomorrow."
"Then, you don't have plans?"
"No."
"So you'll come?"
"Thank you, but I don't think so. I'll be leaving the next day and would like to rest. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must be going." Nodding to his friend, he started down the hall once again.
Mace watched his friend retreating, shaking his head sadly. "What have you done to yourself, old friend?"
*****
Obi-Wan looked down at the present in his hands with a smile. It was a small, crystal glurp fish from Mon Calamari. He had seen it at a small shop during the last field trip the Creche Masters had dared to take them on and had known it was perfect for Bant.
She was going to love it.
Tomorrow, the Creche Masters were holding a big party for all the initiates. He was going with his friends: Bant, Garen, and Reeft. Just then, there was a loud knock on his door.
Obi-Wan frowned. He wasn't expecting anyone. Opening the door, he jumped back in surprise.
There stood Master Qui-Gon Jinn, one of the best known Masters in the Temple. He was like a super hero to the Initiates.
And here he was standing at his door.
"Um...come in, Master Jinn." He stuttered, standing back. The Master walked in, immediately turning to him. Obi-Wan watched him, slightly nervous as the Master studied him for a moment.
Could it be? Was the great Master Jinn going to ask him to be his Padawan Learner?
His heart seemed to be in his throat, pounding loudly.
The seconds ticked away, each seemeing to take an eternity.
"Where did you learn to fight like that?" Master Jinn suddenly asked.
Obi-Wan frowned. "From our sparring master."
Qui-Gon's eyes seemed to bore into him. "Initiates don't usually fight so aggressively." Obi-Wan winced inwardly. Once again, he had made a mistake. Why couldn't he ever do anything right?
"I...I thought it would be best if the fight ended quickly." He said, sort of telling the truth. There was no way he would tell the Master that he had been showing off a tiny bit for him.
"I see." The Master murmured. "Good evening." Master Jinn started to walk out of the room.
"Master Jinn!" Obi-Wan called before he could think twice.
The Master stopped, turning to look at him.
"Please. I beg you to accept me as your Padawan Learner." He said, then began to lose his nerve. "My..my birthday is next month."
"There is no shame in working for the Agri-Corps." The Master said, then disappeared out into the hall.
Obi-Wan flopped down on his bed in despair.
So, that was that.
No more Masters were scheduled to come looking for a Padawan. He would be a farmer.
Well, if that was the case, he would enjoy himself tomorrow at Winter Thanks.
One last time.
*****
Qui-Gon settled down into his favorite chair. In his hands he held a cup of Alderranian Tea and an old book. He knew he could get the same story on a datapad, but he liked the feeling of a real book in his hands. The feel of the paper, the weight of the book, the frayed edges...everything. It helped him relax more easily.
Taking a sip of his tea, he turned to where he had left off.
Suddenly, a warning tingled in the back of his mind. He looked up, stretching out with his senses.
Nothing.
He was the only one in the quarters. Shrugging, he focused back on his book.
The warning came back. This time, Qui-Gon placed his cup and book on the small table by his chair and stood up. Holding his lightsaber, he searched every part of his quarters.
Once again, nothing.
Qui-Gon shook his head as he once again sat down. He must be imagining it. He was just being foolish. What could possibly be a danger to him here, in the temple?
But it wouldn't go away. Wouldn't leave him alone.
Finally, he gave up. He couldn't concentrate on the story any longer with that light tingling in the back of his mind. Turning off the lights, he headed for bed.
Still, the feeling that something was going to happen stayed with him.
*****
Qui-Gon was awakened by the chiming of the old chrono sitting on his nightstand.
He frowned sleepily. Who had set it for midnight?
The warning suddenly screamed to him, causing him to sit up. A bright light flashed through the room, blinding him temporarily. He was instantly standing, lightsaber ignited, waiting for an attack.
None came.
The light dimmed to a faint glow. Finally, his vision cleared.
Qui-Gon stared in shock at the figure standing in front of his window. He couldn't believe his eyes.
Standing, well, more like floating, there was a ghost.
He had never really believed in force ghosts, but here one was, standing in his bedroom. Even Mace could pull a prank like this.
It appeared to be a little girl. By her clothes, he guessed she had once been an initiate. She couldn't be more than 5.
"Who...who are you?" He managed to ask, still staring at the glowing figure.
"I am the ghost of Winter past." She said in a small voice.
"What do you want with me?"
"I am here for your welfare and salvation." She replied calmly, with a seriousness that no five year old ever had, or should had.
"Welfare? Salvation?" Qui-Gon asked in surprise. "What do you care of my Welfare and Salvation?"
"I am here for reasons I cannot tell."
"I don't need any help." He said stubbornly.
"True or untrue, that may be. Decided, it will be. Up to you, it is." The child said simply.
Qui-Gon frowned. What was that supposed to mean?
"Come, take my hand." She held it out to him.
He found himself reaching out to take her small, delicate hand between his fingers before he realized what was happening. Deciding that this must be a dream, he didn't pull back.
It was best to let it just run its course.
*****
Qui-Gon suddenly found himself in a completely different place.
Now, instead of his dark bedroom, he was on a path that wound through a lovely forest. Sun peeped through the branches of the trees, warming whatever it could touch with it's light. As a light breeze playfully danced around the ground, blowing fallen leaves around his feet. He could just make out a house through the grove. Somewhere in nearby, he could hear the sound of a river.
Qui-Gon froze.
The fragrence of the Muja blossoms surrounded him. Above, he could hear the twittering of the Davasl birds.
How was it possible?
"You recognize this place?" The young girl asked. He looked down at her, surprised to find her still there.
"Yes. Of course. This is my...my home." He said quietly, sounding like if he said it aloud, it would all disappear. He was beginning to have his doubts about the dream theory.
Qui-Gon looked around, spotting the sparkling river a few meters away. "That there is the River of Light." He found himself getting excited, feeling more like the young Padawan he once was. Looking the other way, he pointed at another familiar sight. "And over there is a large, old oark tree. I used to climb it during visits home."
Just then, the faint sound of laughter reached his ears.
Qui-Gon took off at a run towards the house. Running up the stone steps, he reached to open the door.
His hand went right through the knob.
Not having anything hard in the way to catch him, Qui-Gon flew through the door, landing with a crash onto the floor of the old house.
On instinct, he sprang to his feet instantly.
How had that happened?
Turning, he started to inspect the door. Reaching out, he stuck his hand through the door, then pulled back. It just felt like walking through a cold mist, nothing more.
Laughter once again caught his attention.
He headed down the short hall to the living room.
It was exactly like he remembered. The whole house had a rustic, antique smell to it. A rug his mother had made when she was a girl lay in the middle of the floor. A large fireplace crackled warmly, sending rays of light and warmth throughout the room, even though heating units were installed in the walls and would have been more convenient to use them. Several old, cushioned chairs and an old couch were placed in front of the fire in various places. Several cushions had large indentations in them, showing where the preferred seats were. Right above it, a chrono ticked down the minutes, giving out a large clang on the hour. He had always loved to help his father wind it up each morning after breakfast.
His father.
Looking over, he saw his father sitting in the largest of the chairs, pipe in his mouth. He never lit the pipe, said he would never smoke because it was bad for the heart but he liked the feel of it resting in his mouth.
Qui-Gon had always suspected it was because his mother would kick him out if he smoked inside the house.
Looking at the chair right across from his father, was his mother.
She had a cup of tea in her hands. Dried Muja blossoms floated on the top. Qui-Gon could remember the first time he had been brave enough to try it. That was the first and last time he had a sip for about 10 years. It has been too strong for him at the time. Now he had a jar of it back in his quarters, which he used to make a cup of tea almost every night.
Both his parents were smiling down at someone on the floor. Qui-Gon stared at the small boy.
It was him.
A 11 year old him, but him just the same. He was lying on his stomache on the floor, watching Master Yoda tell one of his many tales about when he was a Padawan, as he twirled the newly made Padawan braid with one of his fingers.
None of them even noticed him.
"This is only a memory from your past." The ghost said.
"Yes. I remember this day clearly." Qui-Gon found himself smiling. "Yoda had just taken me as his Padawan Learner. I felt so awkward at first around him, being so much taller than he. It was a great jest for the other Padawans. But then he brought me home for Winter Thanks, and got to know my family. Every night he would tell us stories of different missions he had been on. He soon became part of our family. We spent ever Winter's Thanks with them after that. From then on, he was more of a father to me than a teacher. Even if he was just a little green troll."
The child smiled softly. "Come, there is more we must see."
Slowly, the world began to fade once again.
*****
Qui-Gon looked around at the town the spirit had now taken him to. He instantly recognized it. How could he not?
Telos.
Around them a soft snow fell. Dusk was just descending. The windows of the houses let out a soft glow from inside. He could hear the sounds of several parties being held for Winters Thanks.
Just then, a lone figure caught his attention. He watched as it walked silently towards one of the larger and quieter houses. The figure knocked on the door, which opened a few minutes later. The man instantly motioned for the lone figure to enter, shutting the door behind him.
Qui-Gon looked through the window, avoiding touching the wall. There was something very disquieting about being able to walk through objects. Inside, the figure was just lowering his hood.
"I am Qui-Gon Jinn. You contacted the Temple about a child who might be strong in the Force?" He asked.
Yes. It was him. A much younger him, but not as young as before. He had been recently knighted. His hair was still just growing out of the Padawan haircut.
"Yes. My son." The man, Crion, said, motioning for the younger Qui-Gon to follow him into another room. Qui-Gon sighed, before quickly walking through the wall and quickly walked after them.
Inside was a cradle. A young child, no more that 6 months, slept peacefully in it, oblivious to the changes about to be brought upon him. The knight walked over to him and looked down at the boy. Expertly, he took a blood sample from the sleeping child in seconds. The boy let out a small yawn, then opened his eyes, staring up at him.
Qui-Gon felt his heart beating faster, even though it wasn't happening to him. Just his younger self. Still, it seemed like it was he who was standing there, staring into the child's dark blue eyes. The memory stood out clearly in his mind. He had felt something click inside of him then. There had been something about the boy. So trusting and calm. But also strong in a way he had never been able to place a finger on. Qui-Gon watched as the memory played out. His younger self ending over the child, gently caressing the soft cheek as he whispered a small greeting.
"There is another Winters Thanks that was spent with this young man." The spirit spoke up behind him. Qui-Gon spun around, facing the spirit. There had been many Winters Thanks spent with this young man, but in his heart, he knew of only one she could be referring to.
"No. Please, don't show me that." Qui-Gon found himself begging the small girl.
But it was too late. They were already there.
Once again, they were standing in the town on Telos. It had completely changed. What had once been a peaceful, happy place where people had been celebrating Winter's Thanks was now completely silent and war-torn. No sounds of parties could be heard. The shutters on the windows were tightly shut. If any light was on inside, it couldn't be seen. Houses that had held joyous celebrations were now only ruins.
Qui-Gon slowly walked through the town, down the main street, past misery he had seen too often during his lifetime. He knew where he must go.
Soon, he was on a large, open plain. Snow was swirling about him, covering everything in white. He didn't feel it biting at his face or even notice it for that matter. Qui-Gon was too busy watching his worse memory play out before him.
Several meters in front of him were two figures. One stood staring at the other, who was kneeling next to a dead body sadly.
"I hate you." The kneeling figure whisperred, his voice raw with emotion.
"Padawan, listen."The older man said. The older him said, looking like a mirror image of him.
"No."
"Padawan, he was slaughtering innocent people. He had to be stopped." The other him gently lay a hand on his Padawan's shoulder. "I am so sorry."
"Why?" The Padawan asked, angry tears welling up in his eyes as he hugged the dead man to him.
"I wish I could explain why things happen like they do. Only the Force knows."
The younger man turned away. He gently slid the ring off of the dead man's finger. Staring angrily at his master, he pressed the hot ring against his cheek. The smell of burning flesh filled the air.
Xanatos removed the ring, dropping it to the ground, revealing a bloody, burnt mark in the shape of a broken circle on his cheek.
He stood up, igniting his lightsaber.
"I hate you." Xanatos said louder this time.
"Padawan, don't let your anger control you." Qui-Gon, the other Qui-Gon, pleaded, hands held out in a sign of peace. "You don't want to do this."
"Yes I do. You killed my father. My father!" Xanatos suddenly lunged at him.
The other Qui-Gon parried the attack, still pleading with his Padawan. "Xanatos. No. Don't do this."
"I won't rest until I see you dead!" The younger man yelled. "Until your blood covers the ground as my father's does."
Slowly, the battle began to fade away.
*****
Qui-Gon quietly wept as he knelt on the floor of his bedroom.
"Why do you enjoy torturing me so?" He cried, staring at the spirit who was still with him.
His heart felt like it was being ripped in two all over again. He had tried to forget that day. Since then, Winter's Thanks had never been the same. No longer was it a day of thanks and happiness, it was a day of hatred and rememberance of betrayl.
"Only shadows of the past, these images are. I do not have any control over what they are."
"Leave me." He shouted. "Leave me be! I don't want to see anymore. No more."
The young girl nodded, disappearing out of sight, leaving him alone with his grief.
*********
Qui-Gon had just laid back down, his emotions somewhat in control. Inside, his heart was once again in pieces. The scars which had covered his heart had been ripped apart. What the spirit had wanted to accomplish showing him the past, was beyond him. All she had done was remind him exactly why Winter's Thanks was his least favorite holiday.
His eyes began to drift shut.
Every light in the room turned on to it's brightest intensity.
Qui-Gon sat straight up. Just as suddenly, the lights turned off, leaving the room inc omplete darkness except for a faint glow coming from under the door.
The light was coming from the common room.
Pulling his robe on, he headed out, lightsaber ready. And stopped short.
The room had completely changed. It was filled with a warm glow that lit up every corner of the room, but he couldn't find its source. A delicious smelling dinner was laid out on the table, steaming hot. Taking a step towards it, he frowned in confusion. What was the spirit up to now?
"Welcome, Qui-Gon!" A loud, booming voice said happily. He spun around, crouching down into a fighting stance. Sitting on his chair was a large, jolly man. He had a curly, red beard and hair that reached below his shoulders, and he was dressed in the robes of a Jedi Master.
"Do I know you?" Qui-Gon asked, lowering his lightsaber. Maybe it wasn't the spirit's doing after all. If this was Mace's doing...
"No, but you've known 48 of my brothers." The man said cheerfully, pushing himself up from the chair.
"I don't recall ever meeting them." Qui-Gon studied him closer. "Who are you?"
"I am the ghost of Winter present." The man said, laughing like he had just told the most entertaining joke in all the galaxy.
Qui-Gon sighed in exasperation. Another ghost.
"Present? As in the here and now?"
"Yes! The spirit of the day of Winter's Thanks." He said, grinning.
"You are early then. The day doesn't start for another 6 hours." Qui-Gon pointed out.
"It does?" The spirit chuckled as he stepped over to the covered window. Suddenly, the blind over his wimdow shot up, revealing the sun rising over the buildings of Coruscant.
Qui-Gon's mouth dropped open. "H-how.."
For once, he was speechless.
And he had thought he would be ready for anything after what had happened earlier.
"Come." The spirit said cheerfully, strutting through his front door.
TBC.....