Obi-Wan knew that Dooku could just reach out and grab him, yet he still stood his ground.
This time he had to do something right. He felt in a way he had already betrayed Jinn's trust by not thinking and thus Dooku now knew he was force sensitive.
//He should see I am not very trained in the ways of the force or I would have knocked that sucker totally out the first time.//
Obi did not heed the warning that Dooku gave him. He should have. He reached out and shot another lightening bolt toward Dooku and just as the rogue Jedi promised he counteracted the move with an identical blast. His blast, the stronger of the two intercepted Obi-Wan's measly little one and threw both back at the child. There was nothing Obi could do but duck. He did, however Dooku's much more powerful blast hit the boy in the lower back and rendered him helpless on the ground.
Dooku walked over to Obi-Wan and kicked him so he could face the Count.
"You were warned little one. If you live through this, you will listen to what I say, if not I have lost nothing. "
Dooku directed two of his men to pick Obi-Wan up and carry him to the ship that waited. They headed back to Dooku's home without doing anything Dooku had planned but he was just as pleased. He found out Jinn lied to him and for that he would pay as would Selena.
//Both of them will pay through the ones they love. Jinn will have Obi-Wan to nurse to health if that is possible before I can start all over again with him. Nevertheless, I still can start my plans for Delon Lars which will be unimaginable to a normal person the unusual torture I have panned for both of them, but Lars first..//
"Through the force even with the inept collar, Qui-Gon felt something. It was a punishing pain that shot through his lower back, followed by an aura of fear that surrounded him. It hovered around Master Jinn the entire afternoon as he anxiously waited for Obi-Wan to return.
Possible three hours later and the big Jedi master continued to be agonizingly burdened with the onslaught of misery. His backache had intensified the fear left an aura around him that made Jinn more than positive that something had happened to Obi-Wan.
//At least I can feel through the force he is alive. I wish the force would let me be more intuitive as to what happened to the child. It involves pain, immense according to the way my back hurts. I can't imagine Obi tolerating such pain for if it originates from him it must be ten times worse.//
At first, Jinn let out a sigh of immense relief when he finally saw two guards on either side of Obi-Wan as they escorted him back to the cell he shared with Master Jinn.
However, there was plainly something wrong with the boy when at second glance he saw that Obi-Wan was flanked by two guards because he was unable to carry his weight with his own legs. The boy was in a stupor from as of yet an unknown reason.
Jinn rushed to the cell door only to be motioned away by one of the guard's blasters as it waved him away, yet pointed at him also.. He stepped several steps back from the cell door as it swung open and Obi-Wan was tossed in the direction of the Jedi master.
Qui-Gon knelt down, gingerly turned Obi over and picked him up to place him on the cot. It was then and quite sudden Obi gripped the front of Master Jinn's robe.
He looked up into Jinn's eyes with sadness and failure written all over him.
"I am sorry Mr. Qui-Gon. I let our secret slip. I didn't mean too. I got angry and it just slipped out of my big mouth. I did zap Dooku one good one. Only he zapped back even harder.."
Qui-Gon returned the weak little smile he received from Obi, as the child nestled in his arms, rooted closer against the master's chest..
" I suppose that as soon as I make you my apprentice I will have to deal with that anger problem you have. Until then all is forgiven. We will work through any problems that might arise why we are held captive. Just relax now, all is well.."
"Jinn laid his chin on the boy's sweaty spiked hair as he gently lifted Obi up on the cot.
"There that should be better. Let me get you something to drink. Well I guess that *something* has to be water."
"That sounds good to me."
Obi's voice cracked under the enormous pain he tried valiantly to hold at bay.
Master Jinn was not concerned with what Dooku heard now, except maybe for his plans which would not be discussed. He took out the small piece of metal he used to short circuit his collar temporarily the last time and slipped it between the collar and his neck. Now he would be able to assist the boy in a healing trance which right now he very much needed.
Jinn laid his hands on Obi-Wan's chest and let his healing forces flow into Obi-Wan. The future Jedi apprentice to Master Jinn instantly felt relief from the pain and when the master used a force thought to put the young one in a force-suggested sleep to better rest, Obi's last thoughts were thankful ones that right now he had force power and that he and Mr. Qui-Gon were connected. It felt so good to have some of the pain shouldered by his *future* master.
When the guards finally came to take everyone out of their cells it was over an hour late. Qui-Gon hated to make Obi-Wan get up but he needed food and something other than water to drink. However he cold not imagine what Dooku had in store for he and possibly Selena for the lies they told. The count would not be happy about the lies directed to him by the two and more than likely intended to do something about it.
//I have no doubt he will use the ones we care about to carry out his plans of retaliation for the mistruth spoken by Selena and I about Obi-Wan and his force abilities.//
Selena's face exhibited just a touch of concern when Master Jinn entered the dining hall with her nephew by his side, supporting most of his weight
Obi-Wan did not actually make steps with his still numbs legs. He more or less dragged them behind him as Master Jinn shouldered most of his weight. Not a pretty sight to see one so young, though he be Jedi, mangled in such a way. Jinn had already determined that Obi's injuries could have been quite more severe than they were. The damage done, thankfully was not lasting and very soon he would be on his own two feet.
That was the only thing that would hinder Jinn's planned escape. Now he would have to wait a day or two until Kenobi regained all the use of his legs. No matter, thought the master. They would have enough to deal with this evening over last-meal.
"Well Master Jinn I see you have a your little Jedi up and walking. How very courageous of him. Stronger in the force than I realized, I would say, if he can actually stand after the blast I used on him."
"Yes well I do hope you are proud of yourself. To injure a child is a definite coup for you."
"Not a child, a Jedi. I found out about your little lies, yours and Selena's. Now all I have to do is figure out how I plan to repay you two for those lies…..
Master Jinn was relieved when Count Dooku was called away from the table to the comm unit.
"How could you Jinn? You told the boy and in his confusion and fear he told Count Dooku of his force abilities.. There is to telling what Count Dooku has planned for Delon or us for that matter."
"I didn't get scared Aunt Selena or confused. I did however get angry but Mr. Qui-Gon or should I say Master Jinn said as soon as I am made his apprentice, he will start a training program that will help me alleviate that anger."
"Sith knows he has reason for it Selena and you just added another cause for it. Has it not occurred to you that Obi will carry the brunt of that punishment for our lies? Not just Delon. I know you care for your husband and want to return to your new child alive but couldn't someone think about the child?"
"Maybe you should have when you blabbed the truth to him. It could have waited. Now Obi-Wan has turned around and blabbed the truth to Count Dooku."
Jinn slammed his fist down on the table hard enough to echo the noise through the large dining hall. He looked to see if it caused any of the guards or Dooku to return.
"My thoughts were with Obi-Wan when I told him of his natural borne force abilities just now escaping the affects of the drug you and his mother saw fit to give him all of his life.. He didn't know what was happening in his mind. It overwhelmed him to have so much force and powers thrust in his body so quickly. I like to think I helped him a little in his confusion by sharing with him what should have been shared since he was born; the truth about his Jedi powers."
"So you took it upon yourself to do what I explicitly did not want done until or if he found a master. I don't know all the reasons for why his mother started all this. But as a dying wish to her, I vowed to continue it. Now you have all of us in a quandry here. My husband might quite possibly lose his life, you and I as well."
Selena reached over and placed her very delicate hand over that of her husbands' that rested on the table.
"You failed to mention Obi-Wan's life. Is he not worth the breath brushed a crossed your lips with the mention of his problems? He might lose his life in dastardly fashion. Count Dooku might want to keep him as some dark apprentice to himself. Have you ever thought of that? Have you ever thought of what your twin sister would say to the idea or the reality of Obi-Wan being forced to the dark side to do Count Dooku's evil bidding?"
Delon Lars was just about to voice his objections before Selena stopped him. Jinn had a valid point and now some guilt crept over her as she her thoughts went to her dead sister and her son, Owen. What worried her most was the possibility of betraying Owen in some way.
"Let's not argue Qui-Gon. Let us try to find a way out of this grave. For that is what I think Dooku plans to make this for us.."
"I think you are right and I do have a plan. I need your cooperation. You have to work with me in order for this to have any possibility for success.. We will have to use all of our gift-given force powers to see that it works or the outcome of a failed plan will most certainly result in the death of all of us."
Jinn told her of the ability he had to short circuit the force collar. They set up a time that evening when they would simultaneously short circuit their collars. Jinn tossed her a small piece of wire need to do the trick and went over it step by step what had to be done to make sure the collar was totally off.. They would use pillows, covers, anything to make it look like they were in the bed asleep. Master Jinn then instructed Selena would use the force to unlock and escape their cells. Hopefully they would have enough time to go unnoticed.
Selena and Jinn agreed upon a place to meet; the main door just outside the holding cells, that led up to the steps. From there it was anyone's guess for sure which way to go or how much resistance they would meet in the line of Dooku's night guards. Once they reached the top of the steps and did away with the guards, their escape route would be blindly groped for because they were not sure where or how to leave without being seen and they certainly couldn't exist out the main door which was more heavily guarded than the cells in the basement..
Voices in the hall prevented them from saying anything else. Obi-Wan was just about to pipe up and say something before the voices were heard and conversation reverted to Jinn's question of how Delon's arm was from the blaster shot. They did not want to be in the midst of a discussion plotting a plan for an escape. However, Qui-Gon knew that silence between them would also be viewed a bit unusual since this had been their first time they were able to speak outside of any one hearing them.
Before Dooku could make his way to the dining hall, Jinn reached down in on of his robe pockets. It took a moment to retrieve what he searched for. It had buried itself in the seam of the pocket.
Obi-Wan watched curiously, his eyes lit up when he saw the rock.
He realized Jinn planned to give it to him.
He pushed away the hand of Qui-Gon's that held Owen's precious lucky birthday rock.
"No Master Jinn. Owen gave me that rock that day…The day he died. I should never have taken it and he wouldn't have died. I won't take it now. Not with all the trouble and battles you might face this evening. You need it."
"That my dear future padawan is exactly why I want you to have this rock."
Jinn took the hand of Obi-Wan's, which just moments before shoved his away. After he got the rock in Obi's palm, he fisted the child's fingers around it.
"I want to prove to you that you were not responsible for Owen's death. This is a good luck rock. It has been good luck for us so far. We are both alive. Had it not been the will of the force, Owen would not have been taken that day. Today will end up different. Only when we are safe will I take that rock and keep it for you. When we *are* safe, you may give it to me to keep until I plait your padawan braid. After that, it will be in your care through your apprenticeship. Just as I bestowed it to Owen, it will be given to you. Now silence little one, I here Count Dooku."
That was the last words Jinn or Obi-Wan could pass between them. Qui-Gon only had time to lovingly rustle the boy's rustic-colored hair and check to make sure Obi-Wan still had his hand clasped shut on *HIS* rock.
"Ay, Master Jinn I do hope you and our friends seated here had time to reminisce about old times. This will be the last time for you to hold such a conversation. I have decided it would be best, at least for a while, to separate the four of you. Of course Obi-Wan will stay here with me. You Jinn have paid passage to Malastare , the most dreaded of prison camps there is and Selena and Delon….. Something special is planned for you. You will become personal servants to the Huttenese ruler of his planet. Quite a task I would think. It *will* keep you busy I imagine. Who knows Qui-Gon, maybe I will bring Obi-Wan to see you . You can see for yourself how much he has progressed in the ways of the dark side. I will begin his training as soon as I have disposed of you three. I have come to realize the boy is more important than any of you and I will not jeopardize his future by my side with the likes of you, always here to watch me. No, this will work out so much better if none of you are any where near the child. I suppose you are right Master Jinn when you insisted Obi-Wan was not your apprentice. He is to be mine……."
Sometimes best laid plans are just that, best laid, even though not *best* executed. They can get waylaid by the mayhem caused by one little glitch in that plan.
That was how it was to be with Master Jinn's plan of escape. No, he didn't think it was the best of plans because once out the cell they had no way of knowing which way to go for the most safety.
Everything went smoothly getting out of the prison. Both Jedi deactivated there force collars, broke the clasps and totally removed them. Next they made a likeness of themselves in their beds with fluffed pillows, covers, and a little judicial use of the force to aid in the ruse. O.K. so far. What followed was the use of their force abilities to unlock the cells, certainly no problem for a Jedi with the force back and intact.
The problem, the one major glitch in their plan came when they reached the top of the steps and tried to decide which direction to make their escape route. Delon Lars, a man never put in such a situation before, decided he was going to run their little escape mission and much to Master Jinn's chagrined, Selena felt obligated out of misplaced loyalty to listen to a man who was passed upset, he was in a near hysterical state.
"I tell you Jinn we have to go this way through the kitchen and out the back door."
"So, instantly you have turned into a leader among us. I don't think so Mr. Lars. The back the door will be just as guarded at the front. I think we should go through the front bay window. The one I noticed, was totally obscured by bushes on the outside. Much simpler and less watched."
Selena grabbed her husband's arm violently and swung him around to face her. Jinn's plan seemed more plausible than her husband's.
"In this you will listen to Master Jinn, Delon. He has been at this a lot longer than you."
Obi-Wan was satisfied to let the adults plot their escape route but he hoped it would be Jinn that plotted it. He had no faith in his uncle to do anything remotely as well as Master Jinn or as any Jedi faced with the trouble they were in.
While his only real desire was to grab Qui-Gon's robe and cling to it, he held back and let the adults work. Nevertheless the master noticed his future little prodigy did not step very far from him and welcomed the comfort of their newly forming bond in his mind. Obi-Wan felt it too. The best way he could describe it was a warm fuzzy feeling that started in his head and ended in his toes. He continued to feel it as he stood there and waited for Qui-Gon to take out a glass pane in the window. Later he would learn the *fuzzy feeling* he had was the force allowing their training bond to complete itself.
Master Jinn went out the window first, then Obi, Delon, and lastly Selena.
Delon was pleased their escape had been easy. Qui-Gon would have told him to wait to celebrate had he had the time.. They were not out of the woods yet. Proof of that, was five of Dooku's guards awaiting just outside the bushes they *THOUGHT* they were so well hidden behind.
Qui-Gon instantly recognized the guard who led the band of men. He was the leader for the overhaul group of Dooku's cronies. He was the man who took Jinn's saber from him and that did not have to be remembered because Master Jinn's very own Jedi saber swung copiously back and forth while hooked to the guard's belt.
Things should go better now and the Jedi knew it. He used a force hold with just the extension of his arm, hand held up, and with just a little nudge of his force powers. He called upon it to hold the men securely with the inability to use their weapons and it worked so well. He reached to the leader who at that time, chanted a list of words that would make an adult turn red let alone the child who still managed to press himself to Qui-Gon as close as he could get.
Qui-Gon pulled his saber from the man's belt ignited it and twirled it around a couple of times just to get get the feel for his most trusted companion. The glowing light made a spectucular display in the air, while darkness loomed around them.
This would not be the only resistence met by the master and his little group. No sooner had he retrieved his weapon and they got from behind the bushes to attempt to complete their escape, more and more of Dooku's henchmen arrived, too many to direct a force hold on.
Jinn stood in front of his group to face off with at least ten more of Dooku's men. He would be the wall, a protection wall between Obi-Wan and his family until they could reach safety. It was concern for them that was paramount in his mind, not his own safety and escape. If he could succeed in seeing Obi-Wan safely away from Dooku, his own life held no importance.
A saber was not the best weapon to use as defence against the barage of blaster shots that hounded Master Jinn as he battled on. The others had their instructions . They knew they must leave Qui-Gon alone to do his Jedi duty. Selena was scared but knew the master was right. Delon could only think of escaping and letting the man known for his fighting abilities engage in his very capable ability. Obi-Wan's thoughts lay only with his master, soon-to-be master. He did not care if he survived or not.
Jinn parried forward and downed two men with blasters. There might be a chance for him after all, he thought.
Selena and Delon had gone beyond the land the house stood on and out into the forest. They knew Dooku's ship was out there about a mile away. That was their destination.
Selena used her Jedi abilities to remember the way to the ship. She, her husband, and she thought, Obi-Wan trekked on. She could at least power the ship and wait for a *little* while for Jinn. She turned to find Obi-Wan was no longer with them. Without another thought, she started to retrace her steps until she found the child but was rebuked for her idea by her loving husband. Loving in that he did not care whether anyone else other than he and his beloved Selena lived through this ordeal.
//An ordeal I blame Obi-Wan and Master Jinn for anyway. //
"You can't be serious. We have our own child to think of and his life to consider if he has to go on without us."
Selena knew it was not only selfish but wrong not to go back in search of the child. Nevertheless, her husband's words accomplished what he wanted them too. Her mind stayed on their child at home who without them, his life would be a life as an orphan. She did not want that for her little one and no matter how it pained her, she did *not* go back in search of Obi-Wan. She hoped he only remained closer to Jinn, just not actually go back where the battle ensued.
She, along with her husband continued on to the ship to ready it for take off. Mr. and Mrs. Lars could only hope Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan made their way back safely and soon to the ship. She knew if they did not , her husband would still insist they leave, only without the Jedi master and his future apprentice.
Obi-Wan ran back to where Master Jinn continued to hold three men off. Even with blasters, they had not gotten a good shot off yet and Obi could only watch to see if they did..
Neither Jinn or Obi-Wan could hide their surprise when Dooku walked out with his red bladed saber powered up and ready to meet Jinn's own Jedi saber.
"So you thought an escape would be an option. Selena and Delon may have successfully gotten away but you haven't Master Jinn and the person I most want."
Dooku nodded his head toward Obi-Wan as his eyes made contact with the child who stood behind a bush. Until then Qui-Gon *thought * Obi had gotten away as well. He was told to leave, but the boy failed to heed Jinn's command. Something that would not be tolerated by Qui-Gon when Obi became his apprentice .
The look Qui-Gon gave Obi-Wan when their eyes finally made contact with each other, spoke volumes to the boy. Master Jinn was not pleased that his instructions to him were ignored. Obi-Wan got the feeling that if they survived this, he might not survive Jinn's reprimand for his disobedience.
Dooku took his free left hand and circled it in the air to let his men know to back up and away to give he and Qui-Gon ample room for the duel he planned.
"I want Master Jinn on a one-on-one basis. Fair and even…. Well somewhat even. Don't use your blasters unless I tell you too. I doubt I will have much trouble with the great Master Jinn!!"
His red bladed sword swirled over his head as if to threaten the Jedi master.
Obi-Wan eyes grew wide with fear.
"Yes, I suppose that for someone like you, that does sound fair.. You will hold your men at bay only if you are winning the battle. If I do start to defeat you, I am a dead man, not by your saber but by your soldiers numerous blasters shots to my body Certainly would be your way of *fair* wouldn't it Dooku? Never mind, I will still beat you in this fight.."
"Quite observant Master Jinn. However, I have instructed my men that if they have to shoot you, it is only to be in an arm or leg, to maim, not murder. I want the honor of your eventual death to be solely mine. Would you like to surrender and not go by my edicts of the battle? I might go easy on you, make your death a little less painful or prolonged."
The guards formed a human circle and fell back even further so as to give Qui-Gon Jinn and Count Dooku ample space to engage in their saber duel to the death.
Dooku got his answer from Master Jinn, but not the one he hoped for, a surrender.
Qui-Gon's response to the Count's question about his surrender was answered not in words. He thrust violently forward in a failed attempt to land a blow to Dooku first off.
"AYE….. so it is to be a battle. I might just enjoy that as equally as the death-by-torture I planned for you. That is, if I am not successful here…………………"
While Obi-Wan didn't understand what he heard. He understood enough to know Qui-Gon could not win this battle, no matter how hard he tried. Dooku had the edge. Te edge in that Count Dooku would unfairly stop the battle with a barrage of blaster shots toward his new master if Jinn should take control of the duel.
Obi-Wan let is mind wonder through different ideas of what he could do to help his *Mr. Qui-Gon*.
Dooku made an all out attack on Master Jinn that was so fierce it caused the master to loose his balance and land with a cracking sound to his right arm.
To Obi-Wan's surprise, he felt the pain in Jinn's arm shoot from the elbow, all the way up and into Qui-Gon's jaw.
//Yep, he broke it. I don't understand how I know, but I do.//
When Jinn fumbled his way up off the ground, he had to switch his saber from his right hand to his left. That cinched Obi-Wan's hunch about Qui-Gon's arm, broken. The child didn't know that not only was Master Jinn's lower bones in his arm broken, but the elbow took the full weight on of his body and it shattered under the immense weight of the big Jedi.
Now it looked like the battle would be easily won by Dooku. Master Jinn might be the best with the saber but his handicap, the use of his left hand by a normally right-handed person in a battle would hinder any success he hoped to have.
Master Jinn continued to loose ground in his battle to defeat Count Dooku. The pain increased in his arm. The bone worked its way out of the skin. The jagged white edges of it, clearly visible and nauseatingly gruesome to see.
Obi-Wan knew how it must hurt the master. Master could not clutter his mind with force healing ministrations even if he had the time for it. One misstep more and Master Jinn could wind up skewered onto Dooku's saber.
Obi-Wan nervously toed his foot in the earth just under his feet. Maybe not a Jedi thing to do, his boot covered in thick loose dirt. However his toe felt something metal- like and the child ventured a quick look down. There before him was a blaster gun, just waiting for him to pick up and halt this nonsense he watched before him. Jinn did not have a chance unless someone helped him. Obi-Wan planned to be that someone and return to Jinn what he had done many times before to him. Although until now Obi-Wan had not realized it. He would help Master Jinn in his battle to defeat Dooku.
//Just like a true master and apprentice. We will fight together and we *WILL* win!!!!.//
Obi looked around to make sure no one watched as he bent down to pick up the blaster. Dooku's guards were too engrossed in the battle to have eyes for anything else. Their chatter and laughter meant they thought their master had Jinn where he wanted him and very soon it would all be over. Obi-Wan was determined that his master, soon to be master would win this battle. //If not win it, I plan to make sure he comes out of it alive.//
Obi-Wan picked up the blaster and tried to figure out exactly how one might use it to produce the blast itself. He had never held such a weapon in his hands, but determination made him think through each little gadget on the gun until he thought he knew how to shoot it. Now he would have to just hope that his aim would be correct. At least he hoped he hit some part of Dooku to make him stop from harming his future master.
Jinn worked valiantly at his failed attempt to defeat Dooku with his left hand. His right arm still poured out blood from the wound to his arm sustained in the fall.
//I just hope I am as accurate with my aim as some of these guards seem to be.//
Obi let his eye sweep around the entire group of Dooku's guards to make very sure none of them had noticed him pick up the discarded blaster.
//It was probably dropped by one of the men Master Jinn downed before he was injured.//
No one even paid an ounce of attention to the child. All lhe had to do was raise the blaster and shoot it.
//What if I accidentally shoot Qui-Gon? What then?//
Obi-Wan hesitated another moment to think things through and to get his courage back up. It deflated badly when he thought of a misfire and the blaster shot hitting Master Jinn, instead of his intended target, Count Dooku.
Now he thought he had his nerves under control. Maybe he did, but his hands shook as he raised the blaster up to where he could see through the scope to aim it at the Count.
To keep his hand from shaking so violently, Obi used his other hand to hold his shooting arm just at the elbow. He mistakenly rested the blaster against his own cheek. He did not realize the kickback and powder wounds you would receive from such a position. He only knew he had to make the first shot count or all the guards would be on him and Qui-Gon in an instance. They would anyway but if Dooku was injured that might be their priority instead of Master Jinn.
Obi-Wan released the safety latch, or what he thought was the safety latch. He had to wipe the sweat from his forehead with his tunic sleeve. It had begun to drip down and sting his eyes. Now once again focused, Obi held his breathe. He squinted his eyes and looked through what he would learn later was the target scope. His sweaty palms almost made it impossible to hold to the weapon to keep it from slipping from his grip.. NOW HE GENTLY SQUEEZED THE TRIGGER.
He was not sure what happened at first. All he knew was he felt a stinging to his cheek where the blaster rested and his jaw felt like it had been ripped opened. He would learn later the kick from the blaster broke his jaw as well as knocked several back teeth out. Proof of that was the three he had to spit out of his mouth after he got up.
Everyone was going in every direction. He couldn't even tell which one had been hit because of all the men that swarmed around them. He hadn't thought about what to do with the guards, Well he had. He hoped Master Jinn could do something mysteriously Jedi-like and of course he still had the gun.
Obi-Wan, in immense pain, looked to make sure he hit Dooku and not Jinn. There in the middle of the melee of guards lay his victim. It was………….??
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I wanted to leave it here to give you something to think about until I post again. I was wrong I will have one more post on this one.
PEACE ewen
This time he had to do something right. He felt in a way he had already betrayed Jinn's trust by not thinking and thus Dooku now knew he was force sensitive.
//He should see I am not very trained in the ways of the force or I would have knocked that sucker totally out the first time.//
Obi did not heed the warning that Dooku gave him. He should have. He reached out and shot another lightening bolt toward Dooku and just as the rogue Jedi promised he counteracted the move with an identical blast. His blast, the stronger of the two intercepted Obi-Wan's measly little one and threw both back at the child. There was nothing Obi could do but duck. He did, however Dooku's much more powerful blast hit the boy in the lower back and rendered him helpless on the ground.
Dooku walked over to Obi-Wan and kicked him so he could face the Count.
"You were warned little one. If you live through this, you will listen to what I say, if not I have lost nothing. "
Dooku directed two of his men to pick Obi-Wan up and carry him to the ship that waited. They headed back to Dooku's home without doing anything Dooku had planned but he was just as pleased. He found out Jinn lied to him and for that he would pay as would Selena.
//Both of them will pay through the ones they love. Jinn will have Obi-Wan to nurse to health if that is possible before I can start all over again with him. Nevertheless, I still can start my plans for Delon Lars which will be unimaginable to a normal person the unusual torture I have panned for both of them, but Lars first..//
"Through the force even with the inept collar, Qui-Gon felt something. It was a punishing pain that shot through his lower back, followed by an aura of fear that surrounded him. It hovered around Master Jinn the entire afternoon as he anxiously waited for Obi-Wan to return.
Possible three hours later and the big Jedi master continued to be agonizingly burdened with the onslaught of misery. His backache had intensified the fear left an aura around him that made Jinn more than positive that something had happened to Obi-Wan.
//At least I can feel through the force he is alive. I wish the force would let me be more intuitive as to what happened to the child. It involves pain, immense according to the way my back hurts. I can't imagine Obi tolerating such pain for if it originates from him it must be ten times worse.//
At first, Jinn let out a sigh of immense relief when he finally saw two guards on either side of Obi-Wan as they escorted him back to the cell he shared with Master Jinn.
However, there was plainly something wrong with the boy when at second glance he saw that Obi-Wan was flanked by two guards because he was unable to carry his weight with his own legs. The boy was in a stupor from as of yet an unknown reason.
Jinn rushed to the cell door only to be motioned away by one of the guard's blasters as it waved him away, yet pointed at him also.. He stepped several steps back from the cell door as it swung open and Obi-Wan was tossed in the direction of the Jedi master.
Qui-Gon knelt down, gingerly turned Obi over and picked him up to place him on the cot. It was then and quite sudden Obi gripped the front of Master Jinn's robe.
He looked up into Jinn's eyes with sadness and failure written all over him.
"I am sorry Mr. Qui-Gon. I let our secret slip. I didn't mean too. I got angry and it just slipped out of my big mouth. I did zap Dooku one good one. Only he zapped back even harder.."
Qui-Gon returned the weak little smile he received from Obi, as the child nestled in his arms, rooted closer against the master's chest..
" I suppose that as soon as I make you my apprentice I will have to deal with that anger problem you have. Until then all is forgiven. We will work through any problems that might arise why we are held captive. Just relax now, all is well.."
"Jinn laid his chin on the boy's sweaty spiked hair as he gently lifted Obi up on the cot.
"There that should be better. Let me get you something to drink. Well I guess that *something* has to be water."
"That sounds good to me."
Obi's voice cracked under the enormous pain he tried valiantly to hold at bay.
Master Jinn was not concerned with what Dooku heard now, except maybe for his plans which would not be discussed. He took out the small piece of metal he used to short circuit his collar temporarily the last time and slipped it between the collar and his neck. Now he would be able to assist the boy in a healing trance which right now he very much needed.
Jinn laid his hands on Obi-Wan's chest and let his healing forces flow into Obi-Wan. The future Jedi apprentice to Master Jinn instantly felt relief from the pain and when the master used a force thought to put the young one in a force-suggested sleep to better rest, Obi's last thoughts were thankful ones that right now he had force power and that he and Mr. Qui-Gon were connected. It felt so good to have some of the pain shouldered by his *future* master.
When the guards finally came to take everyone out of their cells it was over an hour late. Qui-Gon hated to make Obi-Wan get up but he needed food and something other than water to drink. However he cold not imagine what Dooku had in store for he and possibly Selena for the lies they told. The count would not be happy about the lies directed to him by the two and more than likely intended to do something about it.
//I have no doubt he will use the ones we care about to carry out his plans of retaliation for the mistruth spoken by Selena and I about Obi-Wan and his force abilities.//
Selena's face exhibited just a touch of concern when Master Jinn entered the dining hall with her nephew by his side, supporting most of his weight
Obi-Wan did not actually make steps with his still numbs legs. He more or less dragged them behind him as Master Jinn shouldered most of his weight. Not a pretty sight to see one so young, though he be Jedi, mangled in such a way. Jinn had already determined that Obi's injuries could have been quite more severe than they were. The damage done, thankfully was not lasting and very soon he would be on his own two feet.
That was the only thing that would hinder Jinn's planned escape. Now he would have to wait a day or two until Kenobi regained all the use of his legs. No matter, thought the master. They would have enough to deal with this evening over last-meal.
"Well Master Jinn I see you have a your little Jedi up and walking. How very courageous of him. Stronger in the force than I realized, I would say, if he can actually stand after the blast I used on him."
"Yes well I do hope you are proud of yourself. To injure a child is a definite coup for you."
"Not a child, a Jedi. I found out about your little lies, yours and Selena's. Now all I have to do is figure out how I plan to repay you two for those lies…..
Master Jinn was relieved when Count Dooku was called away from the table to the comm unit.
"How could you Jinn? You told the boy and in his confusion and fear he told Count Dooku of his force abilities.. There is to telling what Count Dooku has planned for Delon or us for that matter."
"I didn't get scared Aunt Selena or confused. I did however get angry but Mr. Qui-Gon or should I say Master Jinn said as soon as I am made his apprentice, he will start a training program that will help me alleviate that anger."
"Sith knows he has reason for it Selena and you just added another cause for it. Has it not occurred to you that Obi will carry the brunt of that punishment for our lies? Not just Delon. I know you care for your husband and want to return to your new child alive but couldn't someone think about the child?"
"Maybe you should have when you blabbed the truth to him. It could have waited. Now Obi-Wan has turned around and blabbed the truth to Count Dooku."
Jinn slammed his fist down on the table hard enough to echo the noise through the large dining hall. He looked to see if it caused any of the guards or Dooku to return.
"My thoughts were with Obi-Wan when I told him of his natural borne force abilities just now escaping the affects of the drug you and his mother saw fit to give him all of his life.. He didn't know what was happening in his mind. It overwhelmed him to have so much force and powers thrust in his body so quickly. I like to think I helped him a little in his confusion by sharing with him what should have been shared since he was born; the truth about his Jedi powers."
"So you took it upon yourself to do what I explicitly did not want done until or if he found a master. I don't know all the reasons for why his mother started all this. But as a dying wish to her, I vowed to continue it. Now you have all of us in a quandry here. My husband might quite possibly lose his life, you and I as well."
Selena reached over and placed her very delicate hand over that of her husbands' that rested on the table.
"You failed to mention Obi-Wan's life. Is he not worth the breath brushed a crossed your lips with the mention of his problems? He might lose his life in dastardly fashion. Count Dooku might want to keep him as some dark apprentice to himself. Have you ever thought of that? Have you ever thought of what your twin sister would say to the idea or the reality of Obi-Wan being forced to the dark side to do Count Dooku's evil bidding?"
Delon Lars was just about to voice his objections before Selena stopped him. Jinn had a valid point and now some guilt crept over her as she her thoughts went to her dead sister and her son, Owen. What worried her most was the possibility of betraying Owen in some way.
"Let's not argue Qui-Gon. Let us try to find a way out of this grave. For that is what I think Dooku plans to make this for us.."
"I think you are right and I do have a plan. I need your cooperation. You have to work with me in order for this to have any possibility for success.. We will have to use all of our gift-given force powers to see that it works or the outcome of a failed plan will most certainly result in the death of all of us."
Jinn told her of the ability he had to short circuit the force collar. They set up a time that evening when they would simultaneously short circuit their collars. Jinn tossed her a small piece of wire need to do the trick and went over it step by step what had to be done to make sure the collar was totally off.. They would use pillows, covers, anything to make it look like they were in the bed asleep. Master Jinn then instructed Selena would use the force to unlock and escape their cells. Hopefully they would have enough time to go unnoticed.
Selena and Jinn agreed upon a place to meet; the main door just outside the holding cells, that led up to the steps. From there it was anyone's guess for sure which way to go or how much resistance they would meet in the line of Dooku's night guards. Once they reached the top of the steps and did away with the guards, their escape route would be blindly groped for because they were not sure where or how to leave without being seen and they certainly couldn't exist out the main door which was more heavily guarded than the cells in the basement..
Voices in the hall prevented them from saying anything else. Obi-Wan was just about to pipe up and say something before the voices were heard and conversation reverted to Jinn's question of how Delon's arm was from the blaster shot. They did not want to be in the midst of a discussion plotting a plan for an escape. However, Qui-Gon knew that silence between them would also be viewed a bit unusual since this had been their first time they were able to speak outside of any one hearing them.
Before Dooku could make his way to the dining hall, Jinn reached down in on of his robe pockets. It took a moment to retrieve what he searched for. It had buried itself in the seam of the pocket.
Obi-Wan watched curiously, his eyes lit up when he saw the rock.
He realized Jinn planned to give it to him.
He pushed away the hand of Qui-Gon's that held Owen's precious lucky birthday rock.
"No Master Jinn. Owen gave me that rock that day…The day he died. I should never have taken it and he wouldn't have died. I won't take it now. Not with all the trouble and battles you might face this evening. You need it."
"That my dear future padawan is exactly why I want you to have this rock."
Jinn took the hand of Obi-Wan's, which just moments before shoved his away. After he got the rock in Obi's palm, he fisted the child's fingers around it.
"I want to prove to you that you were not responsible for Owen's death. This is a good luck rock. It has been good luck for us so far. We are both alive. Had it not been the will of the force, Owen would not have been taken that day. Today will end up different. Only when we are safe will I take that rock and keep it for you. When we *are* safe, you may give it to me to keep until I plait your padawan braid. After that, it will be in your care through your apprenticeship. Just as I bestowed it to Owen, it will be given to you. Now silence little one, I here Count Dooku."
That was the last words Jinn or Obi-Wan could pass between them. Qui-Gon only had time to lovingly rustle the boy's rustic-colored hair and check to make sure Obi-Wan still had his hand clasped shut on *HIS* rock.
"Ay, Master Jinn I do hope you and our friends seated here had time to reminisce about old times. This will be the last time for you to hold such a conversation. I have decided it would be best, at least for a while, to separate the four of you. Of course Obi-Wan will stay here with me. You Jinn have paid passage to Malastare , the most dreaded of prison camps there is and Selena and Delon….. Something special is planned for you. You will become personal servants to the Huttenese ruler of his planet. Quite a task I would think. It *will* keep you busy I imagine. Who knows Qui-Gon, maybe I will bring Obi-Wan to see you . You can see for yourself how much he has progressed in the ways of the dark side. I will begin his training as soon as I have disposed of you three. I have come to realize the boy is more important than any of you and I will not jeopardize his future by my side with the likes of you, always here to watch me. No, this will work out so much better if none of you are any where near the child. I suppose you are right Master Jinn when you insisted Obi-Wan was not your apprentice. He is to be mine……."
Sometimes best laid plans are just that, best laid, even though not *best* executed. They can get waylaid by the mayhem caused by one little glitch in that plan.
That was how it was to be with Master Jinn's plan of escape. No, he didn't think it was the best of plans because once out the cell they had no way of knowing which way to go for the most safety.
Everything went smoothly getting out of the prison. Both Jedi deactivated there force collars, broke the clasps and totally removed them. Next they made a likeness of themselves in their beds with fluffed pillows, covers, and a little judicial use of the force to aid in the ruse. O.K. so far. What followed was the use of their force abilities to unlock the cells, certainly no problem for a Jedi with the force back and intact.
The problem, the one major glitch in their plan came when they reached the top of the steps and tried to decide which direction to make their escape route. Delon Lars, a man never put in such a situation before, decided he was going to run their little escape mission and much to Master Jinn's chagrined, Selena felt obligated out of misplaced loyalty to listen to a man who was passed upset, he was in a near hysterical state.
"I tell you Jinn we have to go this way through the kitchen and out the back door."
"So, instantly you have turned into a leader among us. I don't think so Mr. Lars. The back the door will be just as guarded at the front. I think we should go through the front bay window. The one I noticed, was totally obscured by bushes on the outside. Much simpler and less watched."
Selena grabbed her husband's arm violently and swung him around to face her. Jinn's plan seemed more plausible than her husband's.
"In this you will listen to Master Jinn, Delon. He has been at this a lot longer than you."
Obi-Wan was satisfied to let the adults plot their escape route but he hoped it would be Jinn that plotted it. He had no faith in his uncle to do anything remotely as well as Master Jinn or as any Jedi faced with the trouble they were in.
While his only real desire was to grab Qui-Gon's robe and cling to it, he held back and let the adults work. Nevertheless the master noticed his future little prodigy did not step very far from him and welcomed the comfort of their newly forming bond in his mind. Obi-Wan felt it too. The best way he could describe it was a warm fuzzy feeling that started in his head and ended in his toes. He continued to feel it as he stood there and waited for Qui-Gon to take out a glass pane in the window. Later he would learn the *fuzzy feeling* he had was the force allowing their training bond to complete itself.
Master Jinn went out the window first, then Obi, Delon, and lastly Selena.
Delon was pleased their escape had been easy. Qui-Gon would have told him to wait to celebrate had he had the time.. They were not out of the woods yet. Proof of that, was five of Dooku's guards awaiting just outside the bushes they *THOUGHT* they were so well hidden behind.
Qui-Gon instantly recognized the guard who led the band of men. He was the leader for the overhaul group of Dooku's cronies. He was the man who took Jinn's saber from him and that did not have to be remembered because Master Jinn's very own Jedi saber swung copiously back and forth while hooked to the guard's belt.
Things should go better now and the Jedi knew it. He used a force hold with just the extension of his arm, hand held up, and with just a little nudge of his force powers. He called upon it to hold the men securely with the inability to use their weapons and it worked so well. He reached to the leader who at that time, chanted a list of words that would make an adult turn red let alone the child who still managed to press himself to Qui-Gon as close as he could get.
Qui-Gon pulled his saber from the man's belt ignited it and twirled it around a couple of times just to get get the feel for his most trusted companion. The glowing light made a spectucular display in the air, while darkness loomed around them.
This would not be the only resistence met by the master and his little group. No sooner had he retrieved his weapon and they got from behind the bushes to attempt to complete their escape, more and more of Dooku's henchmen arrived, too many to direct a force hold on.
Jinn stood in front of his group to face off with at least ten more of Dooku's men. He would be the wall, a protection wall between Obi-Wan and his family until they could reach safety. It was concern for them that was paramount in his mind, not his own safety and escape. If he could succeed in seeing Obi-Wan safely away from Dooku, his own life held no importance.
A saber was not the best weapon to use as defence against the barage of blaster shots that hounded Master Jinn as he battled on. The others had their instructions . They knew they must leave Qui-Gon alone to do his Jedi duty. Selena was scared but knew the master was right. Delon could only think of escaping and letting the man known for his fighting abilities engage in his very capable ability. Obi-Wan's thoughts lay only with his master, soon-to-be master. He did not care if he survived or not.
Jinn parried forward and downed two men with blasters. There might be a chance for him after all, he thought.
Selena and Delon had gone beyond the land the house stood on and out into the forest. They knew Dooku's ship was out there about a mile away. That was their destination.
Selena used her Jedi abilities to remember the way to the ship. She, her husband, and she thought, Obi-Wan trekked on. She could at least power the ship and wait for a *little* while for Jinn. She turned to find Obi-Wan was no longer with them. Without another thought, she started to retrace her steps until she found the child but was rebuked for her idea by her loving husband. Loving in that he did not care whether anyone else other than he and his beloved Selena lived through this ordeal.
//An ordeal I blame Obi-Wan and Master Jinn for anyway. //
"You can't be serious. We have our own child to think of and his life to consider if he has to go on without us."
Selena knew it was not only selfish but wrong not to go back in search of the child. Nevertheless, her husband's words accomplished what he wanted them too. Her mind stayed on their child at home who without them, his life would be a life as an orphan. She did not want that for her little one and no matter how it pained her, she did *not* go back in search of Obi-Wan. She hoped he only remained closer to Jinn, just not actually go back where the battle ensued.
She, along with her husband continued on to the ship to ready it for take off. Mr. and Mrs. Lars could only hope Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan made their way back safely and soon to the ship. She knew if they did not , her husband would still insist they leave, only without the Jedi master and his future apprentice.
Obi-Wan ran back to where Master Jinn continued to hold three men off. Even with blasters, they had not gotten a good shot off yet and Obi could only watch to see if they did..
Neither Jinn or Obi-Wan could hide their surprise when Dooku walked out with his red bladed saber powered up and ready to meet Jinn's own Jedi saber.
"So you thought an escape would be an option. Selena and Delon may have successfully gotten away but you haven't Master Jinn and the person I most want."
Dooku nodded his head toward Obi-Wan as his eyes made contact with the child who stood behind a bush. Until then Qui-Gon *thought * Obi had gotten away as well. He was told to leave, but the boy failed to heed Jinn's command. Something that would not be tolerated by Qui-Gon when Obi became his apprentice .
The look Qui-Gon gave Obi-Wan when their eyes finally made contact with each other, spoke volumes to the boy. Master Jinn was not pleased that his instructions to him were ignored. Obi-Wan got the feeling that if they survived this, he might not survive Jinn's reprimand for his disobedience.
Dooku took his free left hand and circled it in the air to let his men know to back up and away to give he and Qui-Gon ample room for the duel he planned.
"I want Master Jinn on a one-on-one basis. Fair and even…. Well somewhat even. Don't use your blasters unless I tell you too. I doubt I will have much trouble with the great Master Jinn!!"
His red bladed sword swirled over his head as if to threaten the Jedi master.
Obi-Wan eyes grew wide with fear.
"Yes, I suppose that for someone like you, that does sound fair.. You will hold your men at bay only if you are winning the battle. If I do start to defeat you, I am a dead man, not by your saber but by your soldiers numerous blasters shots to my body Certainly would be your way of *fair* wouldn't it Dooku? Never mind, I will still beat you in this fight.."
"Quite observant Master Jinn. However, I have instructed my men that if they have to shoot you, it is only to be in an arm or leg, to maim, not murder. I want the honor of your eventual death to be solely mine. Would you like to surrender and not go by my edicts of the battle? I might go easy on you, make your death a little less painful or prolonged."
The guards formed a human circle and fell back even further so as to give Qui-Gon Jinn and Count Dooku ample space to engage in their saber duel to the death.
Dooku got his answer from Master Jinn, but not the one he hoped for, a surrender.
Qui-Gon's response to the Count's question about his surrender was answered not in words. He thrust violently forward in a failed attempt to land a blow to Dooku first off.
"AYE….. so it is to be a battle. I might just enjoy that as equally as the death-by-torture I planned for you. That is, if I am not successful here…………………"
While Obi-Wan didn't understand what he heard. He understood enough to know Qui-Gon could not win this battle, no matter how hard he tried. Dooku had the edge. Te edge in that Count Dooku would unfairly stop the battle with a barrage of blaster shots toward his new master if Jinn should take control of the duel.
Obi-Wan let is mind wonder through different ideas of what he could do to help his *Mr. Qui-Gon*.
Dooku made an all out attack on Master Jinn that was so fierce it caused the master to loose his balance and land with a cracking sound to his right arm.
To Obi-Wan's surprise, he felt the pain in Jinn's arm shoot from the elbow, all the way up and into Qui-Gon's jaw.
//Yep, he broke it. I don't understand how I know, but I do.//
When Jinn fumbled his way up off the ground, he had to switch his saber from his right hand to his left. That cinched Obi-Wan's hunch about Qui-Gon's arm, broken. The child didn't know that not only was Master Jinn's lower bones in his arm broken, but the elbow took the full weight on of his body and it shattered under the immense weight of the big Jedi.
Now it looked like the battle would be easily won by Dooku. Master Jinn might be the best with the saber but his handicap, the use of his left hand by a normally right-handed person in a battle would hinder any success he hoped to have.
Master Jinn continued to loose ground in his battle to defeat Count Dooku. The pain increased in his arm. The bone worked its way out of the skin. The jagged white edges of it, clearly visible and nauseatingly gruesome to see.
Obi-Wan knew how it must hurt the master. Master could not clutter his mind with force healing ministrations even if he had the time for it. One misstep more and Master Jinn could wind up skewered onto Dooku's saber.
Obi-Wan nervously toed his foot in the earth just under his feet. Maybe not a Jedi thing to do, his boot covered in thick loose dirt. However his toe felt something metal- like and the child ventured a quick look down. There before him was a blaster gun, just waiting for him to pick up and halt this nonsense he watched before him. Jinn did not have a chance unless someone helped him. Obi-Wan planned to be that someone and return to Jinn what he had done many times before to him. Although until now Obi-Wan had not realized it. He would help Master Jinn in his battle to defeat Dooku.
//Just like a true master and apprentice. We will fight together and we *WILL* win!!!!.//
Obi looked around to make sure no one watched as he bent down to pick up the blaster. Dooku's guards were too engrossed in the battle to have eyes for anything else. Their chatter and laughter meant they thought their master had Jinn where he wanted him and very soon it would all be over. Obi-Wan was determined that his master, soon to be master would win this battle. //If not win it, I plan to make sure he comes out of it alive.//
Obi-Wan picked up the blaster and tried to figure out exactly how one might use it to produce the blast itself. He had never held such a weapon in his hands, but determination made him think through each little gadget on the gun until he thought he knew how to shoot it. Now he would have to just hope that his aim would be correct. At least he hoped he hit some part of Dooku to make him stop from harming his future master.
Jinn worked valiantly at his failed attempt to defeat Dooku with his left hand. His right arm still poured out blood from the wound to his arm sustained in the fall.
//I just hope I am as accurate with my aim as some of these guards seem to be.//
Obi let his eye sweep around the entire group of Dooku's guards to make very sure none of them had noticed him pick up the discarded blaster.
//It was probably dropped by one of the men Master Jinn downed before he was injured.//
No one even paid an ounce of attention to the child. All lhe had to do was raise the blaster and shoot it.
//What if I accidentally shoot Qui-Gon? What then?//
Obi-Wan hesitated another moment to think things through and to get his courage back up. It deflated badly when he thought of a misfire and the blaster shot hitting Master Jinn, instead of his intended target, Count Dooku.
Now he thought he had his nerves under control. Maybe he did, but his hands shook as he raised the blaster up to where he could see through the scope to aim it at the Count.
To keep his hand from shaking so violently, Obi used his other hand to hold his shooting arm just at the elbow. He mistakenly rested the blaster against his own cheek. He did not realize the kickback and powder wounds you would receive from such a position. He only knew he had to make the first shot count or all the guards would be on him and Qui-Gon in an instance. They would anyway but if Dooku was injured that might be their priority instead of Master Jinn.
Obi-Wan released the safety latch, or what he thought was the safety latch. He had to wipe the sweat from his forehead with his tunic sleeve. It had begun to drip down and sting his eyes. Now once again focused, Obi held his breathe. He squinted his eyes and looked through what he would learn later was the target scope. His sweaty palms almost made it impossible to hold to the weapon to keep it from slipping from his grip.. NOW HE GENTLY SQUEEZED THE TRIGGER.
He was not sure what happened at first. All he knew was he felt a stinging to his cheek where the blaster rested and his jaw felt like it had been ripped opened. He would learn later the kick from the blaster broke his jaw as well as knocked several back teeth out. Proof of that was the three he had to spit out of his mouth after he got up.
Everyone was going in every direction. He couldn't even tell which one had been hit because of all the men that swarmed around them. He hadn't thought about what to do with the guards, Well he had. He hoped Master Jinn could do something mysteriously Jedi-like and of course he still had the gun.
Obi-Wan, in immense pain, looked to make sure he hit Dooku and not Jinn. There in the middle of the melee of guards lay his victim. It was………….??
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I wanted to leave it here to give you something to think about until I post again. I was wrong I will have one more post on this one.
PEACE ewen