Title: Hidden Shadows Seeking Light
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Feedback: I would love to get feedback on this story. I would appreciate it if everyone would put down their flame throwers though because this is only my second time out and I know I made mistakes on the first story and have no doubt I will make many on this one. I need constructive criticism so that I will get better not mean comments that will only serve to make me cry. I thank each and every one of the readers who take the time to review this story. I love fan fiction and hope to write stories that can entertain others as much as their stories have entertained me.
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
***********************************************************************
Commander La'Kol awoke with a strange sense of renewed hope that he had not possessed the previous day. Today Jinn and Kenobi would arrive and perhaps they would be the key to finding his daughter and returning her. He couldn't or perhaps just wouldn't allow himself to think where she might be or what she might have endured thus far. It was more than he could bear.
People had been very sympathetic and kind but he didn't need sympathetic and kind he needed heroic and courageous. He needed someone to find his daughter, bring him the parties responsible and then let justice take its turn. He hoped deep in his heart that the Jedi would be the very ones he needed. He realized that Tiress was on precarious ground. There were disturbing rumors that a group proposing that Tiress leave the Republic was gaining more and more popular support.
He shook his head. He hoped it was merely a rumor. He couldn't imagine the legislative council ever voting on such measure. Even if it did make it to the floor surely it would be easily defeated. After all if not for the Republic the planet would never have laid down their weapons and come together as a united front.
He remembered back to the time of the negotiations. He had been so distrustful of Relian and his entire Southern Alliance, but there sitting next to them had been the young Padawan Kenobi. There had been something so honorable about the young man that La'Kol had found himself starting to trust the men that the boy was dealing with.
He had been his honor to work with Master Jinn during the talks. He was a quiet man whose nature seemed to be so opposite of his student. He was soft spoken, few words but with deep meaning, quiet strength as well as possessing a determined patience. The Padawan was bright smiles, quick words, youthful exuberance and quick courage. They had been most impressive to watch. They had managed to forge an alliance where no one had truly believed one could ever have existed.
Thinking back to those days and the men who had made them possible La'Kol felt his hopes rise yet another notch. If anyone could save the current planetary government it would be these two men and even more importantly at the moment if anyone could save his daughter it would be them.
Valem cleared his throat quietly giving the man a moment to compose himself before he joined the rest of the greeting party. They had received word that the Jedi would be arriving during the first evening cycle. Ever since Relian had been murdered many of the governmental leaders were wary of going out in exposed areas in the evening. La'Kol had managed though to assemble a few leaders who were willing to greet the Jedi. The most important figure other than himself would be Vice Commander Elect Den. He felt his thoughts trip over the image of the other man. There was something not quite right about Den. He couldn't quite put his finger on it yet but he felt the man bore watching.
"Commander?" Valem called to him as he indicated the door.
"Yes. Yes Valem we must be off if we hope to be there on time. It has been a long time since we have had the honor of having Jedi in the State House. I trust we are prepared for them." La'Kol walked out with the air of a man wielding great power and yet inside feeling completely powerless.
*****************
"Thank you I am beginning our landing sequence now. We should reach the bay in the next few moments. Kenobi out." Qui-Gon stood at the door of the cockpit watching his ex-padawan go through the landing procedures. He wondered how many times he had watched the young man run through these identical steps over their years together. He felt his throat tighten as he once more lingered over the knowledge that he had not been there to cut the boy's braid. He remembered the moment he had braided the hair for the first time. The day he had officially taken Obi-Wan as his Padawan learner. The pure joy that shone in those sea change eyes caused the Master's chest to tighten even now. His eyes were always so expressive. He had tried to protect his Master in the past, but Qui-Gon could always tell where the boy's heart was if and when he took the time to consider what his eyes were telling him.
"Master?" Obi-Wan's voice shook him from his thoughts. He didn't realize that he had drifted off so far away in that moment or that he had actually given in to the intensity of the emotions as he felt a tear make its way down his cheek. He saw the obvious concern on the knight's face as he rose and placed his hands on the larger man's shoulders seeking his face for answers.
"Master?" He asked again when he got no response from Qui-Gon the first time. "Are you alright?"
Qui-Gon looked deep into the other man's eyes and saw the love the knight still held for him. It buoyed him in a way that nothing else could have. He laughed softly and shook his head.
"I am fine Obi-Wan. I am growing older and a bit nostalgic I believe. I look at you and realize what a fine man you are." He saw his word's effect of the knight. Tears formed in Obi-Wan's eyes but the man did not allow them to fall. He nodded in appreciation obviously not willing to trust his voice in the moment.
"Which bay is ours?" Qui-Gon asked glancing past the knight hoping for a glimpse of their destination.
Obi-Wan was grateful for the distraction and turned to indicate their destination. There was a small greeting party assembled. The sky was darkening rapidly slightly obscuring their view. "Is Anakin ready?" Obi- Wan asked as he finished his final shut down.
"We will meet you at the main hatch." Qui-Gon turned and disappeared down the corridor in search of his Padawan. Anakin had been extremely distant since the attack. He wondered if the boy was indeed suffering some physical symptoms that he was hiding from his Master. He had noticed that the boy seemed to avoid looking him in the eyes. This had not been a problem before the attack. He then wondered if perhaps the boy felt ashamed of what had happened. Qui-Gon made a mental note to talk to the boy and assure him that he has nothing to feel ashamed of.
He found Anakin already at the main hatch ready for departure.
"Anakin." Qui-Gon smiled and nodded.
"Master." Anakin's voice was soft and very subdued. This was completely out of character for the boy. Qui-Gon's concerns deepened at his response.
"Are you feeling well?" He asked placing his hand on the boy's shoulder.
"Yes Master. I feel fine." He never looked at this Master keeping his eyes fixed on the hatch. Qui-Gon squeezed the boy's shoulder reassuringly.
"All will be well Anakin." He noted that the boy had stiffened at his words and shot a look up at his Master. Qui-Gon was relieved to have gotten a response from the boy. Perhaps he was just tired and in need of some rest.
They both turned at the sound of the knight making his way towards them. Obi-Wan caught the heated look Anakin was giving him, but chose to ignore it. The hatch would be opening in a matter of moments and this was neither the time nor the place to discuss whatever was going on with the boy. Obi- Wan doubted that the boy would give him a straight answer even it had did confront him. He gave Qui-Gon a smile and moved to the man's right.
"That feels a bit odd." Qui-Gon joked and he was relieved to hear the soft laughter of Obi-Wan meet his own.
"The view is much different from over here. No wonder you always seemed to know more about what was going on than I did." The sound of the hatch opening cut off their laugher as they all reached out to the Force drawing in the peace and serenity they would need for the mission.
***************************
"Master Yoda we have made the second jump into hyperspace. We should be a day's journey out." Adi rechecked the calculations then nodded her affirmation to her companion in the cockpit.
"Generous it was for the Chancellor to loan us his new ship. Fast it is." Yoda nodded looking out into the blankness of hyperspace.
"How exactly did he learn of our traveling to Tiress?" Adi asked sitting back to relax against her seat.
"Not sure of this am I. Not on Coruscant is he. Off on a mission to prevent other planets from leaving the Republic I believe." Yoda seemed to be giving Adi's question more thought. It did seem odd that as soon as the space port had learned of their plans to travel that the call had come in from the Chancellor giving them permission to use his private ship. He himself had not even used the vessel. It had been delivered after his departure.
"It sure has been helpful. I am sure Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan will be relieved when the boy is safely away from Tiress and back at the Temple." Adi swallowed her growing excitement at seeing the knight but couldn't keep a smile from playing across her lips.
"Your feeling betray you." Yoda's voice was soft as he stared at the beautiful woman sitting next to him. Adi turned and regarded him feeling his intense scrutiny.
"Do they now? How is that Master?" She asked teasingly.
"Feelings you have for my padawan. Strong they are I feel. Love him you do." Adi's brow furrowed as she met the green master's gaze.
"Love?" She considered aloud. "I don't think it is love yet is it?" She was searching her heart. She was definitely in lust but love? She had always felt drawn to the young man but she had just assumed that it was only on a physical level.
"A physical relationship is your desire only?" Yoda asked continuing to stare making Adi a bit uncomfortable. This was all getting very personal.
"Master I-I " Adi flustered. This was very much unlike her to be so thrown by a simple question.
"Embarrassed you I have? More thought you must give this I think." The older Master raised himself out of this seat chuckling as he went. Adi shook her head.
"It is rare that you show this evil side of yourself Master Yoda." She teased as he made his way out of the cockpit. "I had no idea what your padawans had to put up with."
She could still hear his laughter as he made his way slowly down the corridor. She had played right into his hand. Of course she also realized that he was surely concerned for Obi-Wan. He loved the boy and had no desire to see him hurt. Lucky for Yoda neither did she. Did she love him? She had tried to tell herself it was merely physical and lust not love, but now that she had allowed herself to go there it was obvious that her feelings ran much deeper than even she had suspected.
She cast a glance down the corridor where the small master had disappeared. He truly was the wisest of all the Jedi. Turning back to gaze at the emptiness of hyperspace she settled herself on thoughts of when she would see the young knight once more. She found herself longing to hear his voice as much as she desired to feel his hands on her body once more. She shivered sitting up a bit straighter in her seat.
//Definitely more than lust.// She thought.
**********************
Commander La'Kol stood in a small bit of awe as he watched the three individuals approach. Master Jinn looked exactly has he had on his first visit to Tiress. Kenobi looked a little bit older and his hair was now starting to grow out from the severe padawan cut he had had before. He moved with an ease and confidence now that he had not yet taken hold of on his previous visit. The boy with them was young, blonde with beautiful blue eyes. He seemed sullen following closely behind his Master. La'Kol felt Den pull up beside him. The man seemed very eager to take the reigns of power. This both delighted and disturbed the man.
Stepping up he bowed to the Jedi, "It is an honor to have you among us again."
The three Jedi bowed. Master Jinn smiled extending his natural calm demeanor to all around. "It is our pleasure to be of assistance to you and to the people of Tiress. It is our hope that peace will continue on your fair planet and your daughter will be return to you unharmed." Qui-Gon noticed that the mere mention of the man's daughter caused La'Kol to stiffen. He was obviously struggling to hold on to his emotions. Qui-Gon extended a hand and placed it upon his shoulder comforting the other man.
Obi-Wan had been keenly watching the other members of the greeting party while Qui-Gon spoke. He had missed La'Kol's reaction but hadn't missed Den's. Den had also stiffened but Obi-Wan had sensed arrogance from the man. He had also seen a slight smile that the other man had quickly wiped away. He had been watching Qui-Gon seeming to have forgotten that another Jedi stood by. Obi-Wan continued to watch the man hoping to catch the other's eye to see how concerned he would be that perhaps he had revealed that which had not intended to.
La'Kol accepted Master Jinn's comfort and cleared his throat determined to get through this public moment and find a private one with the Jedi to discuss his daughter's situation.
He quickly made the necessary introductions. He noted a slight discomfort from Den as the man turned to meet the steady gaze of Knight Kenobi. This surprised La'Kol since Kenobi had worked so closely with Den and Relian during the original negotiations. The Knight had met Den's gaze smiling slightly as if he shared a secret with the man. La'Kol was too tired to consider the odd reaction from his soon to be Vice Commander. He hurried everyone into the waiting shuttle and headed off into the night destined for the waiting State House and hopefully to a plan that would lead to the return of his beloved daughter.
*********************
Qui-Gon allowed himself to sink into the deep soft cushions of the sofa in the common sitting room. The Commander had provided a very nice living arrangement for the Jedi to use during their time on Tiress. He and Anakin were on one side of the common living area while Obi-Wan was on the other side. They each had their own sleeping quarters and private baths. There was a balcony off of the sitting area that provided what seemed to be a view of the Capitol though it was hard to tell at this time of night. On the opposite side of the sitting area was a small kitchen and dining table. It would nice to have the option of eating in from time to time. State dinners tended to add to the fatigue of a mission. It was so hard after a long day of negotiating to manage the polite small talk required to keep things smoothing progressing along. Closing his eyes he laid his head back against the cushions behind him.
"Master?" Anakin spoke coming up from behind him.
"Yes Anakin?"Qui-Gon asked never opening his eyes.
"Is there something I can get for you?" He asked moving to stand in front of his Master.
"No Anakin I am fine." He leaned his head forwarded opening his eyes and giving his Padawan a reassuring smile. "Thank you for checking on me."
Anakin smiled back and nodded his head. "Just trying to be a good Padawan my Master."
"La'Kol has requested a private meeting with us this evening in his quarters. I suspect it must be dealing with his daughter." Obi-Wan regarded them both as he moved from his quarters into the main living area.
"I suspect so." Qui-Gon agreed. "I sense much sadness in him." They were all quiet for a moment.
"When did he make this known to you?" Qui-Gon asked.
"He just sent a confidential communiqué to the com unit in my room. I am sure you have one as well at your station." Qui-Gon nodded.
"I must admit these are some of the nicest rooms we have ever had on a mission." Qui-Gon mused glancing about finally meeting Obi-Wan's gaze too see if he accented.
Obi-Wan smiled down at the man resting comfortably before him. "I don't know the huts on Tamero V were nice as well." They both burst out laughing at his comment.
Anakin stood smiling alternating between mild chuckling and a confused expression. Qui-Gon noticed as did Obi-Wan. He nodded to Obi-Wan who immediately attempted to clue the young boy in on their joke.
"The huts on Tamero V had no running water, no showers or other fresher facilities." Both he and Qui-Gon rolled their eyes at each other at that remark. "They had no heating or cooling. We were given one mat that was neither long enough for Qui-Gon nor wide enough for the two of us to use at the same time. There were bugs and snakes crawling in and out of the huts all night with our bodies blocking their own natural highways. It sounds like a paradise but I guess we will have to settle for slumming it on this mission." Anakin smiled. He got the joke now but honestly wished that he hadn't. He had never considered all the experiences that his Master and the Knight had shared. How would he ever be as close to Qui-Gon if Obi-Wan insisted on continuing to intrude on their missions?
"Enjoy this while you can Anakin. Out next mission will no doubt leave us wanting in personal comforts." Qui-Gon rose placing his hand affectionately on Anakin's shoulder.
"Well I won't get to enjoy them for long now will I?" Anakin responded tersely. Both Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon stopped to regard the boy. Obi-Wan quickly turned his gaze to Qui-Gon. He wondered if the Master had discussed the fact that Yoda and Adi were coming after Anakin in order to protect him. From the confused expression on the older man's face Obi-Wan realized that he had not spoken to the boy yet and was now wondering how Anakin had known.
"We have a few moments." Obi-Wan began. "I will start down to the Commander's quarters. You and Anakin can follow when you are ready." Qui- Gon bowed to the younger man as he watched him give Anakin one last concerned glance before turning to exit their quarters.
Qui-Gon stared down at the boy trying to decide how to address this issue with him. Deciding the direct approach is usually the best he launched into the discussion.
"What do you mean that you won't be here for long?" He held the boy in his gaze refusing to allow the boy to look away. At the same time he reached out with the Force to seek out the boy's emotions.
"Master Gallia and Master Yoda are---" Anakin froze. How could he have been so stupid?
"Well?" Qui-Gon asked. He had sensed the boy's hesitation and panic that he had revealed his deception.
"I went looking for you on the ship and overheard your transmission to the Council." He sighed looking down doing his best to appear properly shamed by his actions. "I didn't realize that I wasn't supposed to overhear or I would have left."
"Really?" Qui-Gon began still sensing the boy's need to deceive him growing stronger as his pulse raced within his chest. "If you thought it was ok for you to listen in then why didn't you make your presence known." The Master's voice was calm. He had caught many a Padawan with their own words before. He was well aware of where this was leading.
"I didn't want to interrupt. You were already receiving their message and I didn't know if by walking in I would interrupt the transmission." He smiled. He felt certain he had covered himself. He secretly praised himself for his ability to think on his feet. Slavery had taught him that one.
"Why didn't you make your presence known once the transmission had ended?" Anakin shook his head.
"I guess I was just so disappointed and I didn't want you to see that I was crying." Qui-Gon felt a shift in the boy's emotions. Perhaps he had been saddened to hear that he would not be able to complete his first mission. Perhaps he had been frightened knowing that he was still possibly a target for the Sith.
"Anakin you must not hide things from me. You must strive to be honest in all of your dealings. I would have understood your sadness about leaving your first mission early. There is no need for shame or sadness. There will be other missions my Padawan." He gently laid his hand upon the boys braid and pulled it affectionately. Anakin smiled up at him and then yawned broadly.
"I am sorry my Master. I will never eavesdrop on a transmission again." He yawned once more.
"Why don't you stay here? I am sure this meeting will not be long and the Commander's quarters are not far from our rooms. Meditate for an hour on honesty then go to bed my Padawan." Qui-Gon turned and made his way to the door. "Call if you need me for anything." He opened the door and disappeared.
Anakin stood staring at the door for a moment. He couldn't believe his own stupidity. He would have to be more careful in the future. He would have to think before he spoke. He made his way over to his room deciding that he would change into his sleep clothes before he meditated. He would probably meditate in his bed. He wanted to fall asleep immersed in the comfort of the darkness.
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I don't know what to say except Wow and thanks for all the reviews. I feel sort of guilty like I was begging for compliments but I assure you that you can send me constructive comments and I will not wilt. Thanks again though. It helped me realize that there are quite a few of you that are reading. That is so exciting for me as a writer. I also promise not to abandon this story. I have read a few that just sort of stopped without ending and it drove me mad. So I guess we are all in this for the long haul. I have no idea where it will end up which is frightening and exciting all at the same time. Thanks for the support I have such great readers on my side.
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Feedback: I would love to get feedback on this story. I would appreciate it if everyone would put down their flame throwers though because this is only my second time out and I know I made mistakes on the first story and have no doubt I will make many on this one. I need constructive criticism so that I will get better not mean comments that will only serve to make me cry. I thank each and every one of the readers who take the time to review this story. I love fan fiction and hope to write stories that can entertain others as much as their stories have entertained me.
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
***********************************************************************
Commander La'Kol awoke with a strange sense of renewed hope that he had not possessed the previous day. Today Jinn and Kenobi would arrive and perhaps they would be the key to finding his daughter and returning her. He couldn't or perhaps just wouldn't allow himself to think where she might be or what she might have endured thus far. It was more than he could bear.
People had been very sympathetic and kind but he didn't need sympathetic and kind he needed heroic and courageous. He needed someone to find his daughter, bring him the parties responsible and then let justice take its turn. He hoped deep in his heart that the Jedi would be the very ones he needed. He realized that Tiress was on precarious ground. There were disturbing rumors that a group proposing that Tiress leave the Republic was gaining more and more popular support.
He shook his head. He hoped it was merely a rumor. He couldn't imagine the legislative council ever voting on such measure. Even if it did make it to the floor surely it would be easily defeated. After all if not for the Republic the planet would never have laid down their weapons and come together as a united front.
He remembered back to the time of the negotiations. He had been so distrustful of Relian and his entire Southern Alliance, but there sitting next to them had been the young Padawan Kenobi. There had been something so honorable about the young man that La'Kol had found himself starting to trust the men that the boy was dealing with.
He had been his honor to work with Master Jinn during the talks. He was a quiet man whose nature seemed to be so opposite of his student. He was soft spoken, few words but with deep meaning, quiet strength as well as possessing a determined patience. The Padawan was bright smiles, quick words, youthful exuberance and quick courage. They had been most impressive to watch. They had managed to forge an alliance where no one had truly believed one could ever have existed.
Thinking back to those days and the men who had made them possible La'Kol felt his hopes rise yet another notch. If anyone could save the current planetary government it would be these two men and even more importantly at the moment if anyone could save his daughter it would be them.
Valem cleared his throat quietly giving the man a moment to compose himself before he joined the rest of the greeting party. They had received word that the Jedi would be arriving during the first evening cycle. Ever since Relian had been murdered many of the governmental leaders were wary of going out in exposed areas in the evening. La'Kol had managed though to assemble a few leaders who were willing to greet the Jedi. The most important figure other than himself would be Vice Commander Elect Den. He felt his thoughts trip over the image of the other man. There was something not quite right about Den. He couldn't quite put his finger on it yet but he felt the man bore watching.
"Commander?" Valem called to him as he indicated the door.
"Yes. Yes Valem we must be off if we hope to be there on time. It has been a long time since we have had the honor of having Jedi in the State House. I trust we are prepared for them." La'Kol walked out with the air of a man wielding great power and yet inside feeling completely powerless.
*****************
"Thank you I am beginning our landing sequence now. We should reach the bay in the next few moments. Kenobi out." Qui-Gon stood at the door of the cockpit watching his ex-padawan go through the landing procedures. He wondered how many times he had watched the young man run through these identical steps over their years together. He felt his throat tighten as he once more lingered over the knowledge that he had not been there to cut the boy's braid. He remembered the moment he had braided the hair for the first time. The day he had officially taken Obi-Wan as his Padawan learner. The pure joy that shone in those sea change eyes caused the Master's chest to tighten even now. His eyes were always so expressive. He had tried to protect his Master in the past, but Qui-Gon could always tell where the boy's heart was if and when he took the time to consider what his eyes were telling him.
"Master?" Obi-Wan's voice shook him from his thoughts. He didn't realize that he had drifted off so far away in that moment or that he had actually given in to the intensity of the emotions as he felt a tear make its way down his cheek. He saw the obvious concern on the knight's face as he rose and placed his hands on the larger man's shoulders seeking his face for answers.
"Master?" He asked again when he got no response from Qui-Gon the first time. "Are you alright?"
Qui-Gon looked deep into the other man's eyes and saw the love the knight still held for him. It buoyed him in a way that nothing else could have. He laughed softly and shook his head.
"I am fine Obi-Wan. I am growing older and a bit nostalgic I believe. I look at you and realize what a fine man you are." He saw his word's effect of the knight. Tears formed in Obi-Wan's eyes but the man did not allow them to fall. He nodded in appreciation obviously not willing to trust his voice in the moment.
"Which bay is ours?" Qui-Gon asked glancing past the knight hoping for a glimpse of their destination.
Obi-Wan was grateful for the distraction and turned to indicate their destination. There was a small greeting party assembled. The sky was darkening rapidly slightly obscuring their view. "Is Anakin ready?" Obi- Wan asked as he finished his final shut down.
"We will meet you at the main hatch." Qui-Gon turned and disappeared down the corridor in search of his Padawan. Anakin had been extremely distant since the attack. He wondered if the boy was indeed suffering some physical symptoms that he was hiding from his Master. He had noticed that the boy seemed to avoid looking him in the eyes. This had not been a problem before the attack. He then wondered if perhaps the boy felt ashamed of what had happened. Qui-Gon made a mental note to talk to the boy and assure him that he has nothing to feel ashamed of.
He found Anakin already at the main hatch ready for departure.
"Anakin." Qui-Gon smiled and nodded.
"Master." Anakin's voice was soft and very subdued. This was completely out of character for the boy. Qui-Gon's concerns deepened at his response.
"Are you feeling well?" He asked placing his hand on the boy's shoulder.
"Yes Master. I feel fine." He never looked at this Master keeping his eyes fixed on the hatch. Qui-Gon squeezed the boy's shoulder reassuringly.
"All will be well Anakin." He noted that the boy had stiffened at his words and shot a look up at his Master. Qui-Gon was relieved to have gotten a response from the boy. Perhaps he was just tired and in need of some rest.
They both turned at the sound of the knight making his way towards them. Obi-Wan caught the heated look Anakin was giving him, but chose to ignore it. The hatch would be opening in a matter of moments and this was neither the time nor the place to discuss whatever was going on with the boy. Obi- Wan doubted that the boy would give him a straight answer even it had did confront him. He gave Qui-Gon a smile and moved to the man's right.
"That feels a bit odd." Qui-Gon joked and he was relieved to hear the soft laughter of Obi-Wan meet his own.
"The view is much different from over here. No wonder you always seemed to know more about what was going on than I did." The sound of the hatch opening cut off their laugher as they all reached out to the Force drawing in the peace and serenity they would need for the mission.
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"Master Yoda we have made the second jump into hyperspace. We should be a day's journey out." Adi rechecked the calculations then nodded her affirmation to her companion in the cockpit.
"Generous it was for the Chancellor to loan us his new ship. Fast it is." Yoda nodded looking out into the blankness of hyperspace.
"How exactly did he learn of our traveling to Tiress?" Adi asked sitting back to relax against her seat.
"Not sure of this am I. Not on Coruscant is he. Off on a mission to prevent other planets from leaving the Republic I believe." Yoda seemed to be giving Adi's question more thought. It did seem odd that as soon as the space port had learned of their plans to travel that the call had come in from the Chancellor giving them permission to use his private ship. He himself had not even used the vessel. It had been delivered after his departure.
"It sure has been helpful. I am sure Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan will be relieved when the boy is safely away from Tiress and back at the Temple." Adi swallowed her growing excitement at seeing the knight but couldn't keep a smile from playing across her lips.
"Your feeling betray you." Yoda's voice was soft as he stared at the beautiful woman sitting next to him. Adi turned and regarded him feeling his intense scrutiny.
"Do they now? How is that Master?" She asked teasingly.
"Feelings you have for my padawan. Strong they are I feel. Love him you do." Adi's brow furrowed as she met the green master's gaze.
"Love?" She considered aloud. "I don't think it is love yet is it?" She was searching her heart. She was definitely in lust but love? She had always felt drawn to the young man but she had just assumed that it was only on a physical level.
"A physical relationship is your desire only?" Yoda asked continuing to stare making Adi a bit uncomfortable. This was all getting very personal.
"Master I-I " Adi flustered. This was very much unlike her to be so thrown by a simple question.
"Embarrassed you I have? More thought you must give this I think." The older Master raised himself out of this seat chuckling as he went. Adi shook her head.
"It is rare that you show this evil side of yourself Master Yoda." She teased as he made his way out of the cockpit. "I had no idea what your padawans had to put up with."
She could still hear his laughter as he made his way slowly down the corridor. She had played right into his hand. Of course she also realized that he was surely concerned for Obi-Wan. He loved the boy and had no desire to see him hurt. Lucky for Yoda neither did she. Did she love him? She had tried to tell herself it was merely physical and lust not love, but now that she had allowed herself to go there it was obvious that her feelings ran much deeper than even she had suspected.
She cast a glance down the corridor where the small master had disappeared. He truly was the wisest of all the Jedi. Turning back to gaze at the emptiness of hyperspace she settled herself on thoughts of when she would see the young knight once more. She found herself longing to hear his voice as much as she desired to feel his hands on her body once more. She shivered sitting up a bit straighter in her seat.
//Definitely more than lust.// She thought.
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Commander La'Kol stood in a small bit of awe as he watched the three individuals approach. Master Jinn looked exactly has he had on his first visit to Tiress. Kenobi looked a little bit older and his hair was now starting to grow out from the severe padawan cut he had had before. He moved with an ease and confidence now that he had not yet taken hold of on his previous visit. The boy with them was young, blonde with beautiful blue eyes. He seemed sullen following closely behind his Master. La'Kol felt Den pull up beside him. The man seemed very eager to take the reigns of power. This both delighted and disturbed the man.
Stepping up he bowed to the Jedi, "It is an honor to have you among us again."
The three Jedi bowed. Master Jinn smiled extending his natural calm demeanor to all around. "It is our pleasure to be of assistance to you and to the people of Tiress. It is our hope that peace will continue on your fair planet and your daughter will be return to you unharmed." Qui-Gon noticed that the mere mention of the man's daughter caused La'Kol to stiffen. He was obviously struggling to hold on to his emotions. Qui-Gon extended a hand and placed it upon his shoulder comforting the other man.
Obi-Wan had been keenly watching the other members of the greeting party while Qui-Gon spoke. He had missed La'Kol's reaction but hadn't missed Den's. Den had also stiffened but Obi-Wan had sensed arrogance from the man. He had also seen a slight smile that the other man had quickly wiped away. He had been watching Qui-Gon seeming to have forgotten that another Jedi stood by. Obi-Wan continued to watch the man hoping to catch the other's eye to see how concerned he would be that perhaps he had revealed that which had not intended to.
La'Kol accepted Master Jinn's comfort and cleared his throat determined to get through this public moment and find a private one with the Jedi to discuss his daughter's situation.
He quickly made the necessary introductions. He noted a slight discomfort from Den as the man turned to meet the steady gaze of Knight Kenobi. This surprised La'Kol since Kenobi had worked so closely with Den and Relian during the original negotiations. The Knight had met Den's gaze smiling slightly as if he shared a secret with the man. La'Kol was too tired to consider the odd reaction from his soon to be Vice Commander. He hurried everyone into the waiting shuttle and headed off into the night destined for the waiting State House and hopefully to a plan that would lead to the return of his beloved daughter.
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Qui-Gon allowed himself to sink into the deep soft cushions of the sofa in the common sitting room. The Commander had provided a very nice living arrangement for the Jedi to use during their time on Tiress. He and Anakin were on one side of the common living area while Obi-Wan was on the other side. They each had their own sleeping quarters and private baths. There was a balcony off of the sitting area that provided what seemed to be a view of the Capitol though it was hard to tell at this time of night. On the opposite side of the sitting area was a small kitchen and dining table. It would nice to have the option of eating in from time to time. State dinners tended to add to the fatigue of a mission. It was so hard after a long day of negotiating to manage the polite small talk required to keep things smoothing progressing along. Closing his eyes he laid his head back against the cushions behind him.
"Master?" Anakin spoke coming up from behind him.
"Yes Anakin?"Qui-Gon asked never opening his eyes.
"Is there something I can get for you?" He asked moving to stand in front of his Master.
"No Anakin I am fine." He leaned his head forwarded opening his eyes and giving his Padawan a reassuring smile. "Thank you for checking on me."
Anakin smiled back and nodded his head. "Just trying to be a good Padawan my Master."
"La'Kol has requested a private meeting with us this evening in his quarters. I suspect it must be dealing with his daughter." Obi-Wan regarded them both as he moved from his quarters into the main living area.
"I suspect so." Qui-Gon agreed. "I sense much sadness in him." They were all quiet for a moment.
"When did he make this known to you?" Qui-Gon asked.
"He just sent a confidential communiqué to the com unit in my room. I am sure you have one as well at your station." Qui-Gon nodded.
"I must admit these are some of the nicest rooms we have ever had on a mission." Qui-Gon mused glancing about finally meeting Obi-Wan's gaze too see if he accented.
Obi-Wan smiled down at the man resting comfortably before him. "I don't know the huts on Tamero V were nice as well." They both burst out laughing at his comment.
Anakin stood smiling alternating between mild chuckling and a confused expression. Qui-Gon noticed as did Obi-Wan. He nodded to Obi-Wan who immediately attempted to clue the young boy in on their joke.
"The huts on Tamero V had no running water, no showers or other fresher facilities." Both he and Qui-Gon rolled their eyes at each other at that remark. "They had no heating or cooling. We were given one mat that was neither long enough for Qui-Gon nor wide enough for the two of us to use at the same time. There were bugs and snakes crawling in and out of the huts all night with our bodies blocking their own natural highways. It sounds like a paradise but I guess we will have to settle for slumming it on this mission." Anakin smiled. He got the joke now but honestly wished that he hadn't. He had never considered all the experiences that his Master and the Knight had shared. How would he ever be as close to Qui-Gon if Obi-Wan insisted on continuing to intrude on their missions?
"Enjoy this while you can Anakin. Out next mission will no doubt leave us wanting in personal comforts." Qui-Gon rose placing his hand affectionately on Anakin's shoulder.
"Well I won't get to enjoy them for long now will I?" Anakin responded tersely. Both Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon stopped to regard the boy. Obi-Wan quickly turned his gaze to Qui-Gon. He wondered if the Master had discussed the fact that Yoda and Adi were coming after Anakin in order to protect him. From the confused expression on the older man's face Obi-Wan realized that he had not spoken to the boy yet and was now wondering how Anakin had known.
"We have a few moments." Obi-Wan began. "I will start down to the Commander's quarters. You and Anakin can follow when you are ready." Qui- Gon bowed to the younger man as he watched him give Anakin one last concerned glance before turning to exit their quarters.
Qui-Gon stared down at the boy trying to decide how to address this issue with him. Deciding the direct approach is usually the best he launched into the discussion.
"What do you mean that you won't be here for long?" He held the boy in his gaze refusing to allow the boy to look away. At the same time he reached out with the Force to seek out the boy's emotions.
"Master Gallia and Master Yoda are---" Anakin froze. How could he have been so stupid?
"Well?" Qui-Gon asked. He had sensed the boy's hesitation and panic that he had revealed his deception.
"I went looking for you on the ship and overheard your transmission to the Council." He sighed looking down doing his best to appear properly shamed by his actions. "I didn't realize that I wasn't supposed to overhear or I would have left."
"Really?" Qui-Gon began still sensing the boy's need to deceive him growing stronger as his pulse raced within his chest. "If you thought it was ok for you to listen in then why didn't you make your presence known." The Master's voice was calm. He had caught many a Padawan with their own words before. He was well aware of where this was leading.
"I didn't want to interrupt. You were already receiving their message and I didn't know if by walking in I would interrupt the transmission." He smiled. He felt certain he had covered himself. He secretly praised himself for his ability to think on his feet. Slavery had taught him that one.
"Why didn't you make your presence known once the transmission had ended?" Anakin shook his head.
"I guess I was just so disappointed and I didn't want you to see that I was crying." Qui-Gon felt a shift in the boy's emotions. Perhaps he had been saddened to hear that he would not be able to complete his first mission. Perhaps he had been frightened knowing that he was still possibly a target for the Sith.
"Anakin you must not hide things from me. You must strive to be honest in all of your dealings. I would have understood your sadness about leaving your first mission early. There is no need for shame or sadness. There will be other missions my Padawan." He gently laid his hand upon the boys braid and pulled it affectionately. Anakin smiled up at him and then yawned broadly.
"I am sorry my Master. I will never eavesdrop on a transmission again." He yawned once more.
"Why don't you stay here? I am sure this meeting will not be long and the Commander's quarters are not far from our rooms. Meditate for an hour on honesty then go to bed my Padawan." Qui-Gon turned and made his way to the door. "Call if you need me for anything." He opened the door and disappeared.
Anakin stood staring at the door for a moment. He couldn't believe his own stupidity. He would have to be more careful in the future. He would have to think before he spoke. He made his way over to his room deciding that he would change into his sleep clothes before he meditated. He would probably meditate in his bed. He wanted to fall asleep immersed in the comfort of the darkness.
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I don't know what to say except Wow and thanks for all the reviews. I feel sort of guilty like I was begging for compliments but I assure you that you can send me constructive comments and I will not wilt. Thanks again though. It helped me realize that there are quite a few of you that are reading. That is so exciting for me as a writer. I also promise not to abandon this story. I have read a few that just sort of stopped without ending and it drove me mad. So I guess we are all in this for the long haul. I have no idea where it will end up which is frightening and exciting all at the same time. Thanks for the support I have such great readers on my side.
