Padawan Da'Neel knew he really should study but his thoughts lingered with things overheard in the heated argument between his master and the little ever-constant-pain in the butt, Obi-Wan Kenobi.
//Master and I could have had that little misstep of mine at the cell cleared up. Now I have to wait to find out if he is really upset over my actions. I wanted some of his time absorbed by the little brat but not *all* his time.//
Da' Neel felt he had been forced into calling his old master, his true one Master Dalia. She understood him. Well maybe she didn't understand him all that well but she overlooked things done not quite eight by the padawan. Show seemed more that willing to pass the boy into knighthood. She was not like Jinn and expected him to perform expertly in every situation.
//Sure I have been taught that without precision in my Jedi training I won't last long out in the field on a mission as a young knight, but I truly know how to handle myself. I just don't always do it their way. //
He again managed to put the blame for his mistakes on someone else's head. This time he blamed Jinn's constant attention being given to the little boy and in turn Da'Neel was ignored.
That satisfied his former master and she promised Padawan Tia Da'Neel that she would address the situation with Qui-Gon on her visit to the temple which according to her would be in the next few days.
Da'Neel thought it was the most productive thing to do; run to his former master and whine about Obi-Wan's presence. *Thought* was a word not strong enough, for he would find out soon no one goes behind Master Jinn's back to address any issue.
As confrontational as Obi-Wan was the night before was the opposite of how he was when the next day's sun arose. Nothing, absolutely no words were spoken between Master Jinn and Obi-Wan about the events of the night before.
Qui-Gon would have liked to delve deeper behind the meaning of Obi's words that the rock was *his*, but he feared another onslaught of tears and near hysteria. He felt it was enough for the boy to go through withdrawal of his medication that now was not the time to question him about his statements concerning Owen's lucky rock.
Obi-Wan felt he had overstepped any boundaries ever put down by the master so he attributed Jinn's silence to his anger and dislike toward him. As miserable as he was at the temple, he couldn't imagined being thrust into an orphanage. He would be forced to deal with the inquisitive stares and subjected to the many questions of the administrators of the orphanage and the other children there. He reasoned he would be better off to take his chances at the temple.
After break-fast Da'Neel excused himself to go to class and later would meet his master for saber practice. Qui-Gon recommended to Obi that he should not go to class. He though, had to go before the council. He did not want to tell Obi-Wan it was because of Obi-Wan, but his little ward suspected it anyway. Although he never dreamed that the council planned to *make* Qui-Gon contact his aunt and demand more information about the drug Obi-Wan took.
The master healer tested the boy for any allergies and could not find anything on the planet Coruscant that he was allergic too. S why the medicine was the question the Master Healer put to the council and thus Mace put to Qui-Gon.
By now the Master Jinn was at a loss as to why Obi-Wan would take medicine he didn't need. Another thing that plagued Jinn was why if the boy suffered no allergies did he become ill and weak if he did not receive it.
As Qui-Gon walked the distance of the hall that led to the temple council chambers, his mounting problems swirled through on his mind.
He had been alerted by Master Windu that Master Dalia, Da'Neel's former master would be there for a visit by the end of the week. Mace also said that the ailing master planned to bring Jinn up before the council if her padawan spoke the full truth about how he was being ignored because Jinn's attention being drawn to his ward and not his apprentice.
She had not cared for the child being there and she resented Padawan Tia being ignored because Qui-Gon was busy playing father to the little non force-sensitive snit; a proverbial charity case of homelessness. She felt the council should deny Qui-Gon his bizarre desire to keep Obi-Wan. That is exactly what she called Obi, a *snit*.
Jinn shook his head to shake off the indignation he felt over the older master's accusations. She clearly planned to return to the temple to insert her authority and insist he get *rid* of Obi-Wan and train Da'Neel or give him up as his apprentice. Qui-Gon didn't care for either options. If he had to choose, he was not at all sure which one he would elect to keep by his side.
Before he even finished his thoughts, he realized he had reached his destination. Qui-Gon stopped at the double door to the council chamber, nervously glided his right hand through his graying hair, and drew in a long breath. He released any negativity he had about this little conference. He felt it was none of the council's business about Obi-Wan, as long as he was not a danger to anyone at the temple. He also did not want to bring any stress on Selena before the baby came. The pregnancy had been a difficult one and added pressure couldn't possibly be good for her.
He walked into the familiar chambers with his usual grace and boosted self-confidence. He knew he would need it to argue his case. Usually when he went against the council he had Mace, Yoda, or both in his corner to champion his cause. But this time proved to be very different.
Both of his dearest friends felt he needed to get to the bottom of the mystery where Obi-Wan was concerned. Not that they feared the boy, they feared the outcome in all this would in some way hurt their friend. They knew how much he cared for Owen and they did not want that immense respect and love for Owen to blind him where his little cousin, Obi-Wan Kenobi was concerned………….
Qui-Gon always mentally prided himself on how well he could handle the council when he wanted too. Normally he could sway them in favor of his wishes,if they were in the realm of legality. However, this time he left the council chambers, and tried to expunge his anger into the force while he shook his head in disbelief. He had failed in his mission to convince them not to contact Selena right now.
//What happened this time?//
*THIS* time had been different. He had no one in his corner to support his views. While Mace and Yoda weren't as curt or insistent as the other council members, they still sided with them instead of him when it came to the boy, Obi-Wan.
They wanted some answers as to what kind of medicine Obi-Wan was on and why Jinn was able to make such a deep connection when it came to healing the child. No, the council had not missed a thing in his report about their capture and then the eventual capture of Jinn's former apprentice, Xanatos. What had perplexed Master Jinn about Obi-Wan's connection with him, brought even more concern from his piers, the council members.
There was the other thing that the council seemed at loss at to what to do about, Xanatos. Yes, granted he was a sith, but they couldn't hold him forever and they certainly couldn't kill him. They thought it might be wise to *use* him in they aid against Darth Sidious if he would co-operate.
The council also wanted Jinn to handle that with a discussion with Xanatos.
Jinn walked down the hall rubbing his head.
//Last but not least, Da' Neel and his master expect me to go before the council yet again and explain Da' Neel's accusations to his former master that he is in some way being slighted. Three young people have put my entire life in a spin like a planet who has just been knocked from orbit. How could I have ever contemplated the idea I missed fatherhood.//
Jinn's apartment was quiet, unusually quiet when he returned. All the drapes were pulled. It made the common room resemble nighttime instead of almost time for mid-meal. He soon found the reason for the eerie silence and darkened room. Obi-Wan lay in a little piled up heap, asleep on the sleep couch. He must have been chilled for he used one of Qui-Gon's old robes that hung by the door to provide warmth he needed. It was draped over him until only his face was visible.
Qui-Gon stood in the middle of the room and watched the little boy sleep.
//What a cherub-looking child he is asleep. One would never suspect the numerous dilemmas he has made for me .//
Obi-Wan did look angelic, a picture-perfect image of childhood captured in Jinn's living area.
//I guess if he has taught me any thing, it is that you can't " judge a book by it's cover.". He has brought enough turmoil around here. I suppose the council is right. I do need to find out what goes on with *my* ward.//
Shivers claimed the master skin, making goose bumps everywhere. He wasn't sure he could handle what he found out. Deep down within himself he questioned Obi's Jedi abilities. Of course he knew he didn't have any, or did he know? Obi-Wan was a *mystery* he could not clear up.
//Maybe he doesn't exhibit any Jedi traits at the present, but something back in that prison cell connected he and I together as assuredly as a bond would do. Something, but what? I suppose the council is right. I need to find out what that something is and go from there. //
Qui-Gon decided he could not deal with Obi-Wan's problems until the evening hours. He wanted to talk with Owen's father instead of Selena first.. He could get an idea of how she was and maybe, not likely, but maybe Mr. Lars could fill him in on Obi-Wan's past history or tell him more about the medicine he was on.
//Yes, I do need to know about the medicine Selena had hoped to keep from me. I have to make the Lars' see if the child is to stay here then we, the council that is, must know more about it.//
Qui-Gon walked from the room after he decided he could at least go talk with Xanatos until Da'Neel returned home and Obi-Wan got up from his nap.
//The boy is being quiet and not reaping havoc in some way. It is best to let him sleep right now. I find that a much more tolerable state for him to be in than shouting and screaming at the top of his lungs like last night. //
###############
Qui-Gon sat a crossed from Xanatos in the little ten by ten cell. He supposed the chair he sat in which was overly small, especially for his large frame, was that way because of the cell's diminutive size.
//Why put a chair in hear if it is the size for a child.// He wiggled his behind uncomfortably as he tried to wake up parts of it that lapped over the chair's edge. Delicate and private parts of him had been pinched so much that circulation was denied them and he felt numb in *those* places..
"Well Xanatos what have you to say about the offer I have just laid out to you?
Jinn looked right into those hauntingly raven-colored eyes of Xanatos Crion. Eyes so familiar yet the owner of those eyes had become a stranger to him..
//Qui-Gon studied every added line to his apprentice's face. He saw they had etched themselves permanently into Xani's face as if to make a map of Xanatos' Crion's journey into the dark. A journey he might not ever find a finality too. As Qui-Gon dared one last look, he couldn't help but think; Xanatos' wayward stare epitomizes the dark side now. His gaze is blank, dulled by Sidious and all he stands for. //
Qui-Gon turned his gaze so as not to be rude. He somehow felt immense pity for his former apprentice.
//Does the dark side do that to you? Age you before your time? He looks far older than his years.//
Jinn realized he was going into ridiculous thoughts that didn't need to be addressed by him. Xanatos was not his concern now and he didn't want to make him one again.
"Well Xan care to answer me?"
A smirk and a half-hearted laugh escaped the Jedi turned sith.
"Why Master Jinn, do you want me back here at the temple? What would you do with the other two that stand in line vying for your attention; just dump them in favor of me? I suppose you would. I was also so spoiled as Master Yoda like to called it. Do you truly wish to have me by your side again?"
Under his breath he mumbled something to accent his words only because he could care less what Qui-Gon thought of him. "Meddlesome little troll he was. Is he still that way Jinn, always up in your business?"
"We are not here to talk about Yoda or my other two in line as you call it. Do you want freedom or not. That is all I am asking and no I do not expect you to come back into the order per say. Nevertheless maybe you could be a *mole* for us in some capacity. Here or on other worlds. Don't flatter yourself by thinking I would even wish to have you by my side again."
Qui-Gon knew there was no reason to speak further with Xanatos right now. He was in one of his bitter moods and he would have to get out of it before Jinn could make any progress.
A Couple of more days with the less than tasteful food I will have the kitchens feed him, and he will reconsider. He'll survive. I'll recommend a few things he direly hates in the line of food.
The quick thinking Jedi master got up and stretched his long body up and out. He hoped to wakes up personal parts had had fallen asleep before he made his way back up from the bowels of the temple into the light of day. The musky dank smell had started to get to him. He sniffed the air in disgust of it.
//Couldn't be too healthy to stay down here for very long periods. //
"I will give you time to think Xanatos. I will come back down in a few days."
"Hope to get me to break by having me celled in such a dismal place, Jinn. Just how long do you think I would last above ground if Sidious knew I betrayed him for my freedom; that I had turned once again to the Jedi and betrayed him?"
"I don't suppose he would like it. He might even want to kill you. However you could stay down in the lower levels and work for us down there. Sidious would never lower himself to go there."
"To seek his revenge he very well might.. However, like you said, maybe I will change my mind in a couple of days. It is not something I can just *DO*. I have to think long and hard about the consequences to my very life if I turn on Sidious. Worth a thought though."
There his body parts were awake enough to leave the cell and go back up to the temple.
//As bad as I hate the dampness and smell down here it could harbor me safe haven from the other two I have to deal with. I think it was easier to deal with Xanatos today than it will be my apprentice Tia and my little guy asleep up there//.
Jinn shrugged off his thoughts as if in disbelief but knew they were true.
//Whether I care to believe it or not, Xanatos is acting like the most rational of the three young men in my care……………………………. //
Just as Qui-Gon suspected, Mr. Lars had not been very helpful when it came to Obi-Wan. He knew nothing of the medicine, didn't want to know and absolutely forbade Qui-Gon from contacting his wife. She had been confined to bed until the birth of their baby. That's right. Master Jinn was informed in a not too-nice of way that he would have to wait until after she had the baby because Owen's father didn't want Jinn's hand in the death of his future child, as he was involved in the death of his first child Owen.
The words hurt Master Jinn more than he cared to admit. He knew Lars was trying to keep his wife healthy and he would say anything to him if it caused Qui-Gon to take stock of the situation and wait to question her.
Jinn was resolved not to let Selena hear any news that might complicate the birth of her baby. He felt sure the council would see that. Another more disturbing threat was made by Owen's father. He told Qui-Gon if Obi-Wan was such a troublesome little boy and he heard any nonsense he would come to Coruscant and have the boy taken away to an orphanage.
Qui-Gon let him believe his own threat but not even Selena couldn't take Obi-Wan away, unless she went to court. Master Jinn had been full unbridled custody of the child. He could do what he wanted with Obi-Wan, but they couldn't.
The Jedi master came from his bedroom to be confronted by Da' Neel.
"Master I hope you are not upset that I spoke with my former master."
"Of course not. Why would I be upset that you went to Master Dalia with an accusation that I failed to see to your Jedi apprentice training.? Why should that *UPSET* me? It's not often an apprentice brings such charges up against his master but since you have I suppose we will see it through and let the council decide what is truth and what is exaggeration. For your sake you should hope that they see things your way. The council does not take kindly to made-up lies on a master by his apprentice."
If Qui-Gon's words were to make Padawan Tia Da'Neel worried, he was more than successful. The apprentice knew how well beloved his master was. He banked on his Master Dalia's belief in him, but would the council members believe him over Master Jinn. Now he was not so sure he did the right thing!!!!
The master walked into the kitchen to start last-meal when he glanced over to see Obi-Wan on the couch, head hung down, and his hands being wrung in a nervous reaction to his guardian's close proximity.
The boy's imaginative perception that Master Jinn was angry with Obi-Wan escalated into an untrue belief that anger festered in the man more and it was all over the rock. Obi wished he could explain what happened that day of Owen's death but fear of the large master halted his ability to even look at him, let alone speak with him.
Qui-Gon wanted to break the silence and the fear Obi had of him . The best way he could think of was have the boy with him for awhile.
"Obi-Wan."
"Yes, Mr. Qui-Gon?"
"I need you to help me with last-meal. Come here please."
//Why? He has never *needed* me to help before. He just wants me in there to start up on me again about Owen's rock. If he does, so help me, I WILL tell him off. I will tell him exactly why I *KNOW* without a doubt that rock is mine.//
Obi-Wan went to the kitchen and stood there, just stood there, waiting for some kind of command to do something, although he couldn't possibly think what. He could set the table, but Mr. Qui-Gon said he wanted him to help with last-meal.
//No one would be able to eat what I made. Come to think of it, I can't make anything. I can put cereal in a bowl. Are we having cereal Mr. Qui-Gon? //
Obi talked to himself just to take the apprehension from his mind. However he did think it funny what he thought and a little smile donned his face before he could get control and he knew immediately the Jedi master had seen it.
"Something you find humorous Obi-Wan. Care to share in the little joke?"
Was he angry, was he trying to be nice? Obi-Wan didn't know. He had never taken the time to find out about Master Jinn's moods, what he found funny, or if he ever found anything funny.
//Is he capable of shedding that Jedi reserve long enough to be nice? I have never seen him * nice*, to me at least. Even I know there is a big difference between nice and civil. Civil is when someone has to tolerate you, but they don't necessarily want too. That's how I always thought Mr. Qui-Gon felt about me. Well when I was injured in that cell with him, it sure felt like he was nice to me then.//
Had Qui-Gon known the child's thoughts just then he would have agreed with them. He had developed an indifferent, but tolerable attitude for the little one. However, he couldn't admit honestly that he was overly kind to the boy.
"Nothing sir. I mean I don't find anything funny. I mean… well I am sorry."
"For what, smiling? Here, help me wash these vegetables for the stew. We will never get to eat if we don't get started in here."
//He doesn't sound particularly mad and he hasn't brought up anything bad to bait me into argument with him. I guess I am *tolerable* for him right now.//
Obi-Wan rolled his sleeves up and prepared to do as his guardian asked. He stood at the sink washing vegetables with the cleansing brush just for that. The potato in his hand slipped out and onto the floor.
//Must have a mind of its own. How could I drop that. Stupid me. I bet Mr. Qui-Gon is angry with me know, or worse yet he thinks I am the biggest clutch around!! //
Obi looked up to see an almost quirky kind of smile on Jinn's face as he watched the boy drop to his knees to chase the slippery potatoe. Obi-Wan made a beeline dive under the table to try to retrieve his elusive vegetable before it could get further away from him than it already had. In his haste to get the potato and off of all fours, he misjudged just how tall the table was. Master Jinn heard the hard thump and knew the table would leave a nasty bump on Obi's head for that was what made the loud noise. Obi-Wan fished his vegetable from under the table and tried to return to his spot at the sink with what little dignity he had left. He knew he must be lit up like a red neon sign if the heat from his cheeks was any indication of how much he blushed over the incident.
"Careful with that Obi-Wan. Might have to use my saber to tame those unruly potatoes. Let me now if another one tries to get away from you."
Qui-Gon chuckled at his own joke and realized that it was the first time in a few days he had even found anything to laugh about.
//Did I just here him laugh out loud, Mr. Qui-Gon? Is he serious or was he joking with me. I can't tell. Sounds like he laughed, a real laugh. Obi dared another glance at the master to see his smile still lingered on his face. //
//Nope he doesn't look mad and I know that furrowed brow,"no-non-sense kind of look" he can give when he is steamed about something.//
Obi-Wan got up from his knees and preceded to peal the potatoes. When finished he looked to see the big Jedi stopp cutting up the beef into cubes for the stew and lean against the counter. Obi-Wan didn't have to look up into the eyes of the tall master to know where their gaze was directed, at him.
"Well I see we did not have another dreaded potato attack to deal with."
Obi-Wan braved a smile.
"No sir. I learned how to hold them to keep them from slipping away."
"Good then when I need vegetables I will know just where to go to receive help."
"O.K."
Qui-Gon actually flinched at the timid fearful reply. He sensed at that moment it had taken every bit of courage the little one had to face him head-on together in that kitchen. Remorse hit the master like a ton of bricks when he realized he was directly responsible for that unnatural fear in Obi-Wan.
//He sounds nice. Does he mean to sound that nice to *ME*? WOW!!! //
Funny how something so small could make one feel so needed. Obi-Wan had stood bent over the sink knee-deep in carrots, potatoes onions and some greenery he had never seen before and felt wanted; felt like, at least for the moment, he had a place to call home. Ever how untrue it might be Obi-Wan held to that throughout the evening.
He pretended Jinn's home really was his home and he was an intimate part of that, if only for today……..
PEACE ewen
//Master and I could have had that little misstep of mine at the cell cleared up. Now I have to wait to find out if he is really upset over my actions. I wanted some of his time absorbed by the little brat but not *all* his time.//
Da' Neel felt he had been forced into calling his old master, his true one Master Dalia. She understood him. Well maybe she didn't understand him all that well but she overlooked things done not quite eight by the padawan. Show seemed more that willing to pass the boy into knighthood. She was not like Jinn and expected him to perform expertly in every situation.
//Sure I have been taught that without precision in my Jedi training I won't last long out in the field on a mission as a young knight, but I truly know how to handle myself. I just don't always do it their way. //
He again managed to put the blame for his mistakes on someone else's head. This time he blamed Jinn's constant attention being given to the little boy and in turn Da'Neel was ignored.
That satisfied his former master and she promised Padawan Tia Da'Neel that she would address the situation with Qui-Gon on her visit to the temple which according to her would be in the next few days.
Da'Neel thought it was the most productive thing to do; run to his former master and whine about Obi-Wan's presence. *Thought* was a word not strong enough, for he would find out soon no one goes behind Master Jinn's back to address any issue.
As confrontational as Obi-Wan was the night before was the opposite of how he was when the next day's sun arose. Nothing, absolutely no words were spoken between Master Jinn and Obi-Wan about the events of the night before.
Qui-Gon would have liked to delve deeper behind the meaning of Obi's words that the rock was *his*, but he feared another onslaught of tears and near hysteria. He felt it was enough for the boy to go through withdrawal of his medication that now was not the time to question him about his statements concerning Owen's lucky rock.
Obi-Wan felt he had overstepped any boundaries ever put down by the master so he attributed Jinn's silence to his anger and dislike toward him. As miserable as he was at the temple, he couldn't imagined being thrust into an orphanage. He would be forced to deal with the inquisitive stares and subjected to the many questions of the administrators of the orphanage and the other children there. He reasoned he would be better off to take his chances at the temple.
After break-fast Da'Neel excused himself to go to class and later would meet his master for saber practice. Qui-Gon recommended to Obi that he should not go to class. He though, had to go before the council. He did not want to tell Obi-Wan it was because of Obi-Wan, but his little ward suspected it anyway. Although he never dreamed that the council planned to *make* Qui-Gon contact his aunt and demand more information about the drug Obi-Wan took.
The master healer tested the boy for any allergies and could not find anything on the planet Coruscant that he was allergic too. S why the medicine was the question the Master Healer put to the council and thus Mace put to Qui-Gon.
By now the Master Jinn was at a loss as to why Obi-Wan would take medicine he didn't need. Another thing that plagued Jinn was why if the boy suffered no allergies did he become ill and weak if he did not receive it.
As Qui-Gon walked the distance of the hall that led to the temple council chambers, his mounting problems swirled through on his mind.
He had been alerted by Master Windu that Master Dalia, Da'Neel's former master would be there for a visit by the end of the week. Mace also said that the ailing master planned to bring Jinn up before the council if her padawan spoke the full truth about how he was being ignored because Jinn's attention being drawn to his ward and not his apprentice.
She had not cared for the child being there and she resented Padawan Tia being ignored because Qui-Gon was busy playing father to the little non force-sensitive snit; a proverbial charity case of homelessness. She felt the council should deny Qui-Gon his bizarre desire to keep Obi-Wan. That is exactly what she called Obi, a *snit*.
Jinn shook his head to shake off the indignation he felt over the older master's accusations. She clearly planned to return to the temple to insert her authority and insist he get *rid* of Obi-Wan and train Da'Neel or give him up as his apprentice. Qui-Gon didn't care for either options. If he had to choose, he was not at all sure which one he would elect to keep by his side.
Before he even finished his thoughts, he realized he had reached his destination. Qui-Gon stopped at the double door to the council chamber, nervously glided his right hand through his graying hair, and drew in a long breath. He released any negativity he had about this little conference. He felt it was none of the council's business about Obi-Wan, as long as he was not a danger to anyone at the temple. He also did not want to bring any stress on Selena before the baby came. The pregnancy had been a difficult one and added pressure couldn't possibly be good for her.
He walked into the familiar chambers with his usual grace and boosted self-confidence. He knew he would need it to argue his case. Usually when he went against the council he had Mace, Yoda, or both in his corner to champion his cause. But this time proved to be very different.
Both of his dearest friends felt he needed to get to the bottom of the mystery where Obi-Wan was concerned. Not that they feared the boy, they feared the outcome in all this would in some way hurt their friend. They knew how much he cared for Owen and they did not want that immense respect and love for Owen to blind him where his little cousin, Obi-Wan Kenobi was concerned………….
Qui-Gon always mentally prided himself on how well he could handle the council when he wanted too. Normally he could sway them in favor of his wishes,if they were in the realm of legality. However, this time he left the council chambers, and tried to expunge his anger into the force while he shook his head in disbelief. He had failed in his mission to convince them not to contact Selena right now.
//What happened this time?//
*THIS* time had been different. He had no one in his corner to support his views. While Mace and Yoda weren't as curt or insistent as the other council members, they still sided with them instead of him when it came to the boy, Obi-Wan.
They wanted some answers as to what kind of medicine Obi-Wan was on and why Jinn was able to make such a deep connection when it came to healing the child. No, the council had not missed a thing in his report about their capture and then the eventual capture of Jinn's former apprentice, Xanatos. What had perplexed Master Jinn about Obi-Wan's connection with him, brought even more concern from his piers, the council members.
There was the other thing that the council seemed at loss at to what to do about, Xanatos. Yes, granted he was a sith, but they couldn't hold him forever and they certainly couldn't kill him. They thought it might be wise to *use* him in they aid against Darth Sidious if he would co-operate.
The council also wanted Jinn to handle that with a discussion with Xanatos.
Jinn walked down the hall rubbing his head.
//Last but not least, Da' Neel and his master expect me to go before the council yet again and explain Da' Neel's accusations to his former master that he is in some way being slighted. Three young people have put my entire life in a spin like a planet who has just been knocked from orbit. How could I have ever contemplated the idea I missed fatherhood.//
Jinn's apartment was quiet, unusually quiet when he returned. All the drapes were pulled. It made the common room resemble nighttime instead of almost time for mid-meal. He soon found the reason for the eerie silence and darkened room. Obi-Wan lay in a little piled up heap, asleep on the sleep couch. He must have been chilled for he used one of Qui-Gon's old robes that hung by the door to provide warmth he needed. It was draped over him until only his face was visible.
Qui-Gon stood in the middle of the room and watched the little boy sleep.
//What a cherub-looking child he is asleep. One would never suspect the numerous dilemmas he has made for me .//
Obi-Wan did look angelic, a picture-perfect image of childhood captured in Jinn's living area.
//I guess if he has taught me any thing, it is that you can't " judge a book by it's cover.". He has brought enough turmoil around here. I suppose the council is right. I do need to find out what goes on with *my* ward.//
Shivers claimed the master skin, making goose bumps everywhere. He wasn't sure he could handle what he found out. Deep down within himself he questioned Obi's Jedi abilities. Of course he knew he didn't have any, or did he know? Obi-Wan was a *mystery* he could not clear up.
//Maybe he doesn't exhibit any Jedi traits at the present, but something back in that prison cell connected he and I together as assuredly as a bond would do. Something, but what? I suppose the council is right. I need to find out what that something is and go from there. //
Qui-Gon decided he could not deal with Obi-Wan's problems until the evening hours. He wanted to talk with Owen's father instead of Selena first.. He could get an idea of how she was and maybe, not likely, but maybe Mr. Lars could fill him in on Obi-Wan's past history or tell him more about the medicine he was on.
//Yes, I do need to know about the medicine Selena had hoped to keep from me. I have to make the Lars' see if the child is to stay here then we, the council that is, must know more about it.//
Qui-Gon walked from the room after he decided he could at least go talk with Xanatos until Da'Neel returned home and Obi-Wan got up from his nap.
//The boy is being quiet and not reaping havoc in some way. It is best to let him sleep right now. I find that a much more tolerable state for him to be in than shouting and screaming at the top of his lungs like last night. //
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Qui-Gon sat a crossed from Xanatos in the little ten by ten cell. He supposed the chair he sat in which was overly small, especially for his large frame, was that way because of the cell's diminutive size.
//Why put a chair in hear if it is the size for a child.// He wiggled his behind uncomfortably as he tried to wake up parts of it that lapped over the chair's edge. Delicate and private parts of him had been pinched so much that circulation was denied them and he felt numb in *those* places..
"Well Xanatos what have you to say about the offer I have just laid out to you?
Jinn looked right into those hauntingly raven-colored eyes of Xanatos Crion. Eyes so familiar yet the owner of those eyes had become a stranger to him..
//Qui-Gon studied every added line to his apprentice's face. He saw they had etched themselves permanently into Xani's face as if to make a map of Xanatos' Crion's journey into the dark. A journey he might not ever find a finality too. As Qui-Gon dared one last look, he couldn't help but think; Xanatos' wayward stare epitomizes the dark side now. His gaze is blank, dulled by Sidious and all he stands for. //
Qui-Gon turned his gaze so as not to be rude. He somehow felt immense pity for his former apprentice.
//Does the dark side do that to you? Age you before your time? He looks far older than his years.//
Jinn realized he was going into ridiculous thoughts that didn't need to be addressed by him. Xanatos was not his concern now and he didn't want to make him one again.
"Well Xan care to answer me?"
A smirk and a half-hearted laugh escaped the Jedi turned sith.
"Why Master Jinn, do you want me back here at the temple? What would you do with the other two that stand in line vying for your attention; just dump them in favor of me? I suppose you would. I was also so spoiled as Master Yoda like to called it. Do you truly wish to have me by your side again?"
Under his breath he mumbled something to accent his words only because he could care less what Qui-Gon thought of him. "Meddlesome little troll he was. Is he still that way Jinn, always up in your business?"
"We are not here to talk about Yoda or my other two in line as you call it. Do you want freedom or not. That is all I am asking and no I do not expect you to come back into the order per say. Nevertheless maybe you could be a *mole* for us in some capacity. Here or on other worlds. Don't flatter yourself by thinking I would even wish to have you by my side again."
Qui-Gon knew there was no reason to speak further with Xanatos right now. He was in one of his bitter moods and he would have to get out of it before Jinn could make any progress.
A Couple of more days with the less than tasteful food I will have the kitchens feed him, and he will reconsider. He'll survive. I'll recommend a few things he direly hates in the line of food.
The quick thinking Jedi master got up and stretched his long body up and out. He hoped to wakes up personal parts had had fallen asleep before he made his way back up from the bowels of the temple into the light of day. The musky dank smell had started to get to him. He sniffed the air in disgust of it.
//Couldn't be too healthy to stay down here for very long periods. //
"I will give you time to think Xanatos. I will come back down in a few days."
"Hope to get me to break by having me celled in such a dismal place, Jinn. Just how long do you think I would last above ground if Sidious knew I betrayed him for my freedom; that I had turned once again to the Jedi and betrayed him?"
"I don't suppose he would like it. He might even want to kill you. However you could stay down in the lower levels and work for us down there. Sidious would never lower himself to go there."
"To seek his revenge he very well might.. However, like you said, maybe I will change my mind in a couple of days. It is not something I can just *DO*. I have to think long and hard about the consequences to my very life if I turn on Sidious. Worth a thought though."
There his body parts were awake enough to leave the cell and go back up to the temple.
//As bad as I hate the dampness and smell down here it could harbor me safe haven from the other two I have to deal with. I think it was easier to deal with Xanatos today than it will be my apprentice Tia and my little guy asleep up there//.
Jinn shrugged off his thoughts as if in disbelief but knew they were true.
//Whether I care to believe it or not, Xanatos is acting like the most rational of the three young men in my care……………………………. //
Just as Qui-Gon suspected, Mr. Lars had not been very helpful when it came to Obi-Wan. He knew nothing of the medicine, didn't want to know and absolutely forbade Qui-Gon from contacting his wife. She had been confined to bed until the birth of their baby. That's right. Master Jinn was informed in a not too-nice of way that he would have to wait until after she had the baby because Owen's father didn't want Jinn's hand in the death of his future child, as he was involved in the death of his first child Owen.
The words hurt Master Jinn more than he cared to admit. He knew Lars was trying to keep his wife healthy and he would say anything to him if it caused Qui-Gon to take stock of the situation and wait to question her.
Jinn was resolved not to let Selena hear any news that might complicate the birth of her baby. He felt sure the council would see that. Another more disturbing threat was made by Owen's father. He told Qui-Gon if Obi-Wan was such a troublesome little boy and he heard any nonsense he would come to Coruscant and have the boy taken away to an orphanage.
Qui-Gon let him believe his own threat but not even Selena couldn't take Obi-Wan away, unless she went to court. Master Jinn had been full unbridled custody of the child. He could do what he wanted with Obi-Wan, but they couldn't.
The Jedi master came from his bedroom to be confronted by Da' Neel.
"Master I hope you are not upset that I spoke with my former master."
"Of course not. Why would I be upset that you went to Master Dalia with an accusation that I failed to see to your Jedi apprentice training.? Why should that *UPSET* me? It's not often an apprentice brings such charges up against his master but since you have I suppose we will see it through and let the council decide what is truth and what is exaggeration. For your sake you should hope that they see things your way. The council does not take kindly to made-up lies on a master by his apprentice."
If Qui-Gon's words were to make Padawan Tia Da'Neel worried, he was more than successful. The apprentice knew how well beloved his master was. He banked on his Master Dalia's belief in him, but would the council members believe him over Master Jinn. Now he was not so sure he did the right thing!!!!
The master walked into the kitchen to start last-meal when he glanced over to see Obi-Wan on the couch, head hung down, and his hands being wrung in a nervous reaction to his guardian's close proximity.
The boy's imaginative perception that Master Jinn was angry with Obi-Wan escalated into an untrue belief that anger festered in the man more and it was all over the rock. Obi wished he could explain what happened that day of Owen's death but fear of the large master halted his ability to even look at him, let alone speak with him.
Qui-Gon wanted to break the silence and the fear Obi had of him . The best way he could think of was have the boy with him for awhile.
"Obi-Wan."
"Yes, Mr. Qui-Gon?"
"I need you to help me with last-meal. Come here please."
//Why? He has never *needed* me to help before. He just wants me in there to start up on me again about Owen's rock. If he does, so help me, I WILL tell him off. I will tell him exactly why I *KNOW* without a doubt that rock is mine.//
Obi-Wan went to the kitchen and stood there, just stood there, waiting for some kind of command to do something, although he couldn't possibly think what. He could set the table, but Mr. Qui-Gon said he wanted him to help with last-meal.
//No one would be able to eat what I made. Come to think of it, I can't make anything. I can put cereal in a bowl. Are we having cereal Mr. Qui-Gon? //
Obi talked to himself just to take the apprehension from his mind. However he did think it funny what he thought and a little smile donned his face before he could get control and he knew immediately the Jedi master had seen it.
"Something you find humorous Obi-Wan. Care to share in the little joke?"
Was he angry, was he trying to be nice? Obi-Wan didn't know. He had never taken the time to find out about Master Jinn's moods, what he found funny, or if he ever found anything funny.
//Is he capable of shedding that Jedi reserve long enough to be nice? I have never seen him * nice*, to me at least. Even I know there is a big difference between nice and civil. Civil is when someone has to tolerate you, but they don't necessarily want too. That's how I always thought Mr. Qui-Gon felt about me. Well when I was injured in that cell with him, it sure felt like he was nice to me then.//
Had Qui-Gon known the child's thoughts just then he would have agreed with them. He had developed an indifferent, but tolerable attitude for the little one. However, he couldn't admit honestly that he was overly kind to the boy.
"Nothing sir. I mean I don't find anything funny. I mean… well I am sorry."
"For what, smiling? Here, help me wash these vegetables for the stew. We will never get to eat if we don't get started in here."
//He doesn't sound particularly mad and he hasn't brought up anything bad to bait me into argument with him. I guess I am *tolerable* for him right now.//
Obi-Wan rolled his sleeves up and prepared to do as his guardian asked. He stood at the sink washing vegetables with the cleansing brush just for that. The potato in his hand slipped out and onto the floor.
//Must have a mind of its own. How could I drop that. Stupid me. I bet Mr. Qui-Gon is angry with me know, or worse yet he thinks I am the biggest clutch around!! //
Obi looked up to see an almost quirky kind of smile on Jinn's face as he watched the boy drop to his knees to chase the slippery potatoe. Obi-Wan made a beeline dive under the table to try to retrieve his elusive vegetable before it could get further away from him than it already had. In his haste to get the potato and off of all fours, he misjudged just how tall the table was. Master Jinn heard the hard thump and knew the table would leave a nasty bump on Obi's head for that was what made the loud noise. Obi-Wan fished his vegetable from under the table and tried to return to his spot at the sink with what little dignity he had left. He knew he must be lit up like a red neon sign if the heat from his cheeks was any indication of how much he blushed over the incident.
"Careful with that Obi-Wan. Might have to use my saber to tame those unruly potatoes. Let me now if another one tries to get away from you."
Qui-Gon chuckled at his own joke and realized that it was the first time in a few days he had even found anything to laugh about.
//Did I just here him laugh out loud, Mr. Qui-Gon? Is he serious or was he joking with me. I can't tell. Sounds like he laughed, a real laugh. Obi dared another glance at the master to see his smile still lingered on his face. //
//Nope he doesn't look mad and I know that furrowed brow,"no-non-sense kind of look" he can give when he is steamed about something.//
Obi-Wan got up from his knees and preceded to peal the potatoes. When finished he looked to see the big Jedi stopp cutting up the beef into cubes for the stew and lean against the counter. Obi-Wan didn't have to look up into the eyes of the tall master to know where their gaze was directed, at him.
"Well I see we did not have another dreaded potato attack to deal with."
Obi-Wan braved a smile.
"No sir. I learned how to hold them to keep them from slipping away."
"Good then when I need vegetables I will know just where to go to receive help."
"O.K."
Qui-Gon actually flinched at the timid fearful reply. He sensed at that moment it had taken every bit of courage the little one had to face him head-on together in that kitchen. Remorse hit the master like a ton of bricks when he realized he was directly responsible for that unnatural fear in Obi-Wan.
//He sounds nice. Does he mean to sound that nice to *ME*? WOW!!! //
Funny how something so small could make one feel so needed. Obi-Wan had stood bent over the sink knee-deep in carrots, potatoes onions and some greenery he had never seen before and felt wanted; felt like, at least for the moment, he had a place to call home. Ever how untrue it might be Obi-Wan held to that throughout the evening.
He pretended Jinn's home really was his home and he was an intimate part of that, if only for today……..
PEACE ewen