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
************************************************************
The ground was breaking again. He felt the panic rising up inside of him. He knew now that the jump would come. He knew now that his Master would catch him. He knew now that his Master would be replaced by the sith. His future would be dark. He would be dark. He had to choose. He had to stop the cycle. He had to decide once and for all if his survival was worth his soul.
He felt the hot steam hissing violently up through the vents beneath him. He pumped his arms harder running blindly towards his future. He could hear the roar of the fault opening up to swallow him whole. His lungs ached from pushing himself so hard. His heart pumping furiously in his chest, as the familiar abyss overtook him. His moment of truth arriving much as it does in everyone's life unexpected and premature, Anakin pushed his thoughts away as he gathered what strength he had left and leapt out over the chasm. It was at this moment that everything slowed down. It was as if time was frozen but instead of running rapidly by like a stream it was dripping like a faucet.
He watched as the ground disappeared beneath his feet. He saw it tumble down into the dark hole beneath. Glancing up he once again he was relieved to see his Master reaching for him, but he knew what would follow. Anakin now knew that if he went with the man he would fall to the sith. It wasn't about his Master. It was about who he was and what he had endured. Qui- Gon could not save him from a destiny that had been drawn out for him from the moment he had been born in captivity.
He wanted to be brave. He wanted to die courageously. He would not cry. If only for this one moment in his life, he would be a Jedi. He would put the needs and well being of the universe ahead of his own survival. Using the new advantage of time he shifted his weigh back so that he would pull up short. Qui-Gon's face wilted in anguish as he realized what Anakin was doing.
"NO!" The Master cried. "No Anakin! Reach of me!" His voice seemed to echo for a moment and Anakin felt for the man. He wondered how long he would punish himself feeling that he had failed his padawan. Anakin wished he had the time to tell the man that he had not failed but instead for months now it had been the padawan failing his Master, playing at a game whose stakes were far too high to fathom.
As he felt himself losing momentum, he watched as his Master was suddenly replaced by the sith. He had known it was going to happen and yet it shocked him in spite of that fact. The sith wasn't sorrowful but angry. He reached and snatched at Anakin, his focus completely on his own agenda and having nothing to do with wanting to save a child from a hideous death. It was then that Anakin knew that he had made the right choice.
The look on the sith's face changed in an instant as the dark lord search around him frantically. Anakin felt it as well. Even though he was falling he knew something was different. He wondered if this was what dying felt like. It felt powerful and hopeful. He saw the sith's eyes grow wide in horror. He was staring past the boy back in the direction that Anakin have leapt from. Anakin used what little control he had over his body to twist in mid air.
It was then that Anakin saw him coming. He wasn't sure if he would make in time, but somehow just knowing that the man had tried made dying that much easier.
Anakin closed his eyes wanting that hopeful sight to be his last. He wanted to die remembering that someone had cared. Someone had seen him and believed him truly worth saving. He felt arms around him and then the sensation of forward momentum as time once again found its natural pace. Anakin dared to open his eyes and realized that they were now safely clear of the abyss. The man had made it. He had made it in time.
Obi-Wan Kenobi had saved him.
******************************
The medical bay was in an uproar as was the rest of the Temple. Masters were trying to calm their padawans, Creche Masters trying to sooth initiates, Knights reporting to the Council for assignment, Council Members not certain as to what action to take. Gone was the serenity that usually guarded the halls, classrooms, and living quarters. Instead it was chaos.
In the midst of this storm there was a center of calm. Deep in meditation the small master sat upon the floor next to Skywalker's bed. Much reason there was to be thankful this day. Two lives saved and that was only from the Master's perspective. How many more lives had been spared because of this turn of events? No one would ever know. There was still much for the Knight to do but for now his Master beamed with pride at all that he had overcome.
In midst of his own search for his place as the Chosen One, he had reached out to young Skywalker. Yoda had felt the moment that the boy had made his decision. It had broken the Master's heart and yet filled it with adoration that one so young would be willing to sacrifice everything for the good of others. Qui-Gon had believed that the boy possessed good within him. The Council had doubted, as had the small green Master, but much to the latter's delight Qui-Gon's faith had been rewarded.
Yoda became aware of someone watching him and slowly pulled himself from his center. Opening his eyes he found Anakin staring at him.
"He saved me." Anakin's voice sounded small and filled with wonder as all children's voices should. Yoda smiled and nodded.
"Chose wisely you did. Jedi you will be." Yoda announced watching tears flood the young boy's eyes. "But first your mother we must find." Anakin leapt from the bed and immediately encompassed the smaller being in a tight embrace. Yoda was shocked by the sudden reaction but realized it only served to support his decision to have the Council find and employ the young boy's mother.
The Council usually selected its potential candidates as infants. It was rare that one would be chosen after the age of even five. It was this parental attachment that was one of the reasons for this procedure. Sensing the sudden changes in the Force surrounding them, Yoda realized that nothing was as it had been. It was important to adhere to the old ways but at the same time to remain open minded and flexible to new one as well.
Holding the boy, feeling his tears of gratitude dampening the back of his tunic, Yoda was reminded of his own Padawan. He would never forget the sight of the small boy, much smaller than his agemates, struggling to keep up, determined to succeed. He had endured much. He had never understood why young Kenobi had been forced to endure such arduous trials through out his life, but now he knew. It was all in preparation for this defining moment when Obi-Wan Kenobi stared temptation in the eye and made the darkness blink. He longed to see the young Knight. To see how this knowledge of his place in the Force shined through and around him.
He wondered for a moment if Qui-Gon had been witness to the moment. Somehow that felt right whether to confirm the man's mistakes or to redeem his final efforts, it was right that Qui-Gon see the boy who he had once rejected become the greatest of them all. There was no bitterness in Yoda towards his old padawan. Qui-Gon had always been a difficult one to get through to. Each student gifted with his own talents. It had been after all Jinn's deep calm and unwavering resolve that had ended so many conflicts through out the galaxy. He was a negotiator, he was the composure of peace. He had been coupled with a warrior. Kenobi had been trained as a negotiator, no doubt a leading of the Force, and those skills would now serve him best in his new role within the Order.
Under the training of Qui-Gon he had learned the art of compromise and the skill of persuasion. Under the training of Yoda he had come to believe in himself and fight without hesitation. It was about trust. The lesson he had not learned under his first Master, Yoda had made certain that he learned from him. No negotiator or warrior was worth his weight in the Force unless he trusted not only those around him but most of all himself.
Anakin pulled back, his brows furrowed and a slight blush of embarrassment at his emotional display.
"Master Yoda, I apologize I know that it is wrong for me to show so much emotion." His eyes were down cast. Anakin felt ashamed that in the first moments after being accepted fully back into the Temple he had failed. Yoda waited until those eyes sought his own before continuing.
"Nothing wrong have you done. A Jedi has emotions. A Jedi feels very deeply. Ruled by his emotions he cannot be, but have them he must. For it is only from compassion, love, and mercy that a Jedi finds reason to protect." He smiled and reached for his walking stick. "Much I have to do. With me you may come or sleep here you may." He offered.
"Could I really come with you?" Anakin asked.
"Arranging I am for your mother's purchase. Helpful you would be. Know not how to deal with these slavers. Know how you must." Anakin nodded a bubble of happiness growing in his chest. He was going to see his mother. He was going to be with her once again. It wasn't exactly the heroic rescue he had fantasized about, but somehow now it didn't matter as long as he had her back.
"War does not make a Jedi great." Yoda spoke reading the young boy's mind. Anakin realized his shields were still shattered.
"Then what does?" Anakin asked.
"Putting yourself before others. Defending those who are too weak to fight for themselves. Giving though no one realizes your sacrifice. Forgiving in spite of the hurt that remains. Living honestly while others would live to deceive. Loving when hate would come easier. Giving mercy, lending compassion, and always extending hope to those who have none." Anakin considered the Master's words. He wrote them on his heart vowing to live by them each day to come.
Yoda considered again the qualities that he had just affirmed to the young boy. There were many great Jedi who had walked the corridors of the Temple, learned their katas, studied their coursework and meditated in the gardens. Many great beings who had set themselves aside for the betterment of others. How close that sacrifice had come to being lost? How close had the Order come to utter destruction?
Yoda refused to consider the visions which he had seen over the last five years. Visions of darkness, of death, of betrayal and of loss, had haunted the master, but now he felt hope because of the renewal ricocheting through the Force. He recognized the familiar signature in those cascading waves, he knew that all would be well in time because the one who had almost been lost chose to live by these words. Obi-Wan Kenobi was now the Chosen One but at the same time he would always a Jedi.
************************************
Adi froze, her mouth dry she found herself unable to utter the words she longed to dispatch. Luckily Mace's mouth was working fine.
"The Chosen One?" He almost laughed. "Do you see him as a commodity that I have the power to bargain with?" His brow was furrowed as he regarded Dooku with unveiled distain.
"He is one of you. I was one of you. I want him with me." Dooku felt his position shift slightly. Perhaps he had overestimated the Masters desire to rid the galaxy of the sith.
"He is. You WERE." Adi spat angrily as she finally found her voice. "Obi- Wan Kenobi would never willingly go with you." She hissed. Dooku felt an idea spark at her words. He smiled arrogantly at the beautiful Master. She suppressed a shudder in response. It was almost as if she expected worms to crawl out from behind the fallen Jedi's teeth.
"You know him so well." He said his voice deep and seductive. Mace felt an uneasy feeling come over him.
"Don't even think about it." The Master warned.
Dooku leered as he suddenly shot bolts of energy out and into the Master sending Mace collasping to the floor. He writhed in pain as he tried to find a way to block the energy. Reveling from shock he reached for his shield but felt his body already giving way to the pain and slipping into the darkness. He braced himself against the pull searching for anything he could use to combat the attack. He had to stay conscious. Adi needed him. She was wounded and unarmed. Pushing blindly up from the floor he once again tried to find his footing. Just as he believed he would find the strength to stand another stronger wave hit him slamming him against the other side of the corridor where he then slipped limply to the floor. The last thing he heard before slipping away was the sound of Adi begging for his life.
******************************
They heard them just a few moments before they appeared around the corner up ahead.
"Obi" Siri cried out as she saw his familiar face approaching. She was equally grateful to find Qui-Gon and Bant with him. She wondered where Master Gallia was. She was already considering possibilities when we realized that she had overlooked an important detail. There was a sith leading the Jedi towards she and Garin.
She heard Garin's saber hiss to life and was just about to activate her own when Bant's voice stopped them. "She's on our side." They both looked at one another their confusion evident.
"How can a sith be on our side? There are only two sides. Jedi or sith." Siri asked as the group came to a halt in front to the two Knights. Siri gave the sith a wary look, sizing up the female in front of her. Siri's thumb never left the activation trigger on her saber, as she listened for further explanation.
"No you're wrong." Obi-Wan smirked. "There are two sides but it is them and us. She is one of us." Siri accepted her friend's reasoning and smiled as she reached for him and pulled him into a tight embrace.
"I felt you through the Force Big Shot." She quipped doing her best to hide any sense of admiration.
"I felt you too Small Fry." He teased in return as they placed their foreheads together affectionately for a moment. It was something that they had done for a long time to comfort one another. It was obvious that this was neither the time nor the place for the old friends to hash out the events of the last few hours, but it was understood that if they survived that they would eventually reason it all out together.
"Well I'm here to rescue you again." Garin dead panned interrupting the moment and causing Obi-Wan to chuckle.
"So is this the part where you throw me over your shoulder and carry me to safety or are we skipping that?" Obi-Wan came back at the Knight. Garin tried to hold his smile at bay but it leaked out around the corners.
"We'll skip it." Obi-Wan nodded. "This time." Garin added seriously. Knight Kenobi's gratitude had been clearly stated in the gaze and slight nod he had offered his friend. Garin had never expected any thanks for his support and loyalty to the man, but it was nice to know that Obi-Wan appreciated the fact that he had voluntarily faced down the sith for his sake.
"Well this is a nice reunion, but I'm sure the sith are anxious to get away." Qui-Gon interrupted bringing their mission back into focus.
"Right." Obi-Wan responded turning his attention to Pratell. "How much further?"
"Three more turns, one at the end of this corridor then two quick turns and we're there." She explained still keeping the two new Knights in her line of sight.
"Great. Let's go. We still have to catch up with Masters Gallia and Windu." Bant declared as they headed out once again falling in behind Pratell. The corridor was long and narrow. Due to the limited space the Jedi broke up into pairs, running two abreast in order to allow each the necessary area required to activate his or her saber if need be. Qui-Gon chose to hang back in order to keep a guard up against any sith coming up from behind them.
Just as the group made the final turn, Pratell came to an immediate halt. She didn't feel the impact of the bodies behind her as she focused on the lump in the middle of the floor half way up the new corridor.
"Pratell?" Obi-Wan asked as he tried to help Siri regain her balancing after plowing into him. Bant and Garin were already untangling themselves. Qui-Gon had allowed enough space so that he remained unaffected.
Obi-Wan followed Pratell's gaze and realized that what he had thought first to be some sort of shadow was indeed a person lying crumpled on the ground. His heart stopped as he realized that the person was obviously a Jedi. He moved closer not sure what to hope for. He didn't know how he would be able to bear it if Adi was lost to him and yet he knew Mace was Qui-Gon's dearest friend as well. He reached out to the Force and found that it was Mace and not Adi lying before him. He could feel Qui-Gon moving up behind him and passed this knowledge silently to the Master. He felt a sharp spike in the man's concern, but then a moment later felt Qui- Gon find his center once more. Obi-Wan marveled yet again at the Master's ability to stay in the moment.
Once they reached the man they both immediately went to their knees. Reaching out Obi-Wan turned the man onto his back. There were scorch marks across his cloak and tunic. They were ragged black markings that smelled of burned fabric and unfortunately flesh. This had not been a saber attack. Obi-Wan glanced up and saw his concern reflected in his Master's eyes. .
"Mace?" He asked feeling for a pulse. The rest of the group had caught up with the two and were staring down at the fallen Jedi with deepest concern. Garin set up a perimeter of protection, he took the rear guard while Bant the forward.
"Is he?" Siri asked not sure that she wanted the answer.
"He's alive." Obi-Wan sighed as he tried to access the man's injuries. "Will you help me Qui-Gon? You always were better at this than I am." Qui- Gon nodded as he began accessing his friend's condition. After a quick scan Qui-Gon found his concern for Mace increasing.
"He's in shock. Whatever happened to him overloaded his neuro systems and caused them to temporarily shut down. Luckily it seems that his heart continued to beat, but his respirations are weak as are his reflexes." Qui- Gon stated firmly. Seeing his friend this way, he realized that the gnawing feeling in his stomach had returned. He had relaxed too soon. This battle was far from over. They were far from being safe. Even with the Chosen One in their company there would still be losses and defeats. He had never considered this option.
"Let me try something." Obi-Wan stated reading his Master's concern in his voice the Knight was determined to do whatever he could to help this brave man who had willingly risked his life to save his. Placing his hand upon Mace's forehead, Obi-Wan reached for the new power he had discovered earlier. Reaching out he could see what it was that was wrong within the larger man.
"His nerves have been more than just turned off, they have been fried." He reached out sending healing waves of energy to sooth the sparking nerves in the Master's mind. He watched as the soothing energy began to wrap itself around the damaged nerves insulating them once more. Like a circuit being re-install, Obi-Wan watched as Mace's systems came back online.
He and Qui-Gon smiled at one another when moments later Mace began to stir slightly.
"Hold him still. He shouldn't move about until Mirilent has seen him. " Obi- Wan stated. Mace recognized the voice as well as the brief touch in his mind. He was comforted to know that he had been found by friends and not more sith. He began breathing easier but still felt an overwhelming sense of exhaustion. He forced himself to open his eyes knowing that when he did that the pain would be immense.
"Sh. Mace just rest." Qui-Gon soothed.
"C..an.t." He struggled out. His voice was hoarse and raspy.
"Mace all will be well." Obi-Wan tried to sooth even though he had no idea if the Master would recover fully or not at this point. He longed to call for Mirilent now, but had no idea what dangers still surrounded them. He didn't dare involve anyone else until he knew that the area was secure.
Obi-Wan was amazed as Mace fought bravely against the pain. He desperately reached for Obi-Wan and began pulling the Knight closer to his face. There was a compelling urgency in Mace's actions. Obi-Wan lowered his head placing his ear a few inches from the man's mouth.
"A.Ad.Adi." The man finally managed. Obi-Wan immediately stiffened but forced himself to remain calm. He released his fears and apprehension, determined to stay focused on what Mace was trying to relay to him.
"What about her Mace? Is she safe? Do you know where she is?" Obi-Wan stared down at the Master, his brilliant green eyes pleading with the man to tell him something good. Mace shook his head. He continued to struggle against the searing sensation racing through his body.
"Not safe." Obi-Wan's felt a lump form in his throat as he braced himself to hear the news. Struggling to take a deep breath Mace knew he had to somehow convey what he knew before he slipped away once more. Focusing on each word, then each letter in each word, he managed to get the information out.
"Not safe. Dooku has her." He paused swallowing against the ever present need to scream out from his wounds.
"Dooku? Why would he want her? " Obi-Wan thought his face slowly turning to stone as he realized the answer to his own question. Dooku didn't want Adi. He was using her to get what he wanted. Dooku wanted him.
This was what the Knight had feared all along, having to choose between a person he loved and the darkness. He knew what his choice had to be. He just hoped he had the strength to make it.
************************************************
Okay only a few hours late. That's not too bad. I want to thank my hubby and son for their technical advice on this one. They are always so willing to give me the time, support and input that I need. Once again I will try to get the next post out on time next Saturday but if it's a day or two late know that I am just trying to get it right. Thanks for hanging in there with me. We are close now. Don't give up yet..not with the end in sight. A few people have written me to ask if there will be a sequel. At first I thought 'No!' but that was the fatigue talking. Maybe after a few weeks off there will be one. I'd be interested to know how many of you would like to see one. After all I write for myself but it sure is a lot more fun when people are willing to read it. Thanks again for your continued support. Until next week.jesse
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
************************************************************
The ground was breaking again. He felt the panic rising up inside of him. He knew now that the jump would come. He knew now that his Master would catch him. He knew now that his Master would be replaced by the sith. His future would be dark. He would be dark. He had to choose. He had to stop the cycle. He had to decide once and for all if his survival was worth his soul.
He felt the hot steam hissing violently up through the vents beneath him. He pumped his arms harder running blindly towards his future. He could hear the roar of the fault opening up to swallow him whole. His lungs ached from pushing himself so hard. His heart pumping furiously in his chest, as the familiar abyss overtook him. His moment of truth arriving much as it does in everyone's life unexpected and premature, Anakin pushed his thoughts away as he gathered what strength he had left and leapt out over the chasm. It was at this moment that everything slowed down. It was as if time was frozen but instead of running rapidly by like a stream it was dripping like a faucet.
He watched as the ground disappeared beneath his feet. He saw it tumble down into the dark hole beneath. Glancing up he once again he was relieved to see his Master reaching for him, but he knew what would follow. Anakin now knew that if he went with the man he would fall to the sith. It wasn't about his Master. It was about who he was and what he had endured. Qui- Gon could not save him from a destiny that had been drawn out for him from the moment he had been born in captivity.
He wanted to be brave. He wanted to die courageously. He would not cry. If only for this one moment in his life, he would be a Jedi. He would put the needs and well being of the universe ahead of his own survival. Using the new advantage of time he shifted his weigh back so that he would pull up short. Qui-Gon's face wilted in anguish as he realized what Anakin was doing.
"NO!" The Master cried. "No Anakin! Reach of me!" His voice seemed to echo for a moment and Anakin felt for the man. He wondered how long he would punish himself feeling that he had failed his padawan. Anakin wished he had the time to tell the man that he had not failed but instead for months now it had been the padawan failing his Master, playing at a game whose stakes were far too high to fathom.
As he felt himself losing momentum, he watched as his Master was suddenly replaced by the sith. He had known it was going to happen and yet it shocked him in spite of that fact. The sith wasn't sorrowful but angry. He reached and snatched at Anakin, his focus completely on his own agenda and having nothing to do with wanting to save a child from a hideous death. It was then that Anakin knew that he had made the right choice.
The look on the sith's face changed in an instant as the dark lord search around him frantically. Anakin felt it as well. Even though he was falling he knew something was different. He wondered if this was what dying felt like. It felt powerful and hopeful. He saw the sith's eyes grow wide in horror. He was staring past the boy back in the direction that Anakin have leapt from. Anakin used what little control he had over his body to twist in mid air.
It was then that Anakin saw him coming. He wasn't sure if he would make in time, but somehow just knowing that the man had tried made dying that much easier.
Anakin closed his eyes wanting that hopeful sight to be his last. He wanted to die remembering that someone had cared. Someone had seen him and believed him truly worth saving. He felt arms around him and then the sensation of forward momentum as time once again found its natural pace. Anakin dared to open his eyes and realized that they were now safely clear of the abyss. The man had made it. He had made it in time.
Obi-Wan Kenobi had saved him.
******************************
The medical bay was in an uproar as was the rest of the Temple. Masters were trying to calm their padawans, Creche Masters trying to sooth initiates, Knights reporting to the Council for assignment, Council Members not certain as to what action to take. Gone was the serenity that usually guarded the halls, classrooms, and living quarters. Instead it was chaos.
In the midst of this storm there was a center of calm. Deep in meditation the small master sat upon the floor next to Skywalker's bed. Much reason there was to be thankful this day. Two lives saved and that was only from the Master's perspective. How many more lives had been spared because of this turn of events? No one would ever know. There was still much for the Knight to do but for now his Master beamed with pride at all that he had overcome.
In midst of his own search for his place as the Chosen One, he had reached out to young Skywalker. Yoda had felt the moment that the boy had made his decision. It had broken the Master's heart and yet filled it with adoration that one so young would be willing to sacrifice everything for the good of others. Qui-Gon had believed that the boy possessed good within him. The Council had doubted, as had the small green Master, but much to the latter's delight Qui-Gon's faith had been rewarded.
Yoda became aware of someone watching him and slowly pulled himself from his center. Opening his eyes he found Anakin staring at him.
"He saved me." Anakin's voice sounded small and filled with wonder as all children's voices should. Yoda smiled and nodded.
"Chose wisely you did. Jedi you will be." Yoda announced watching tears flood the young boy's eyes. "But first your mother we must find." Anakin leapt from the bed and immediately encompassed the smaller being in a tight embrace. Yoda was shocked by the sudden reaction but realized it only served to support his decision to have the Council find and employ the young boy's mother.
The Council usually selected its potential candidates as infants. It was rare that one would be chosen after the age of even five. It was this parental attachment that was one of the reasons for this procedure. Sensing the sudden changes in the Force surrounding them, Yoda realized that nothing was as it had been. It was important to adhere to the old ways but at the same time to remain open minded and flexible to new one as well.
Holding the boy, feeling his tears of gratitude dampening the back of his tunic, Yoda was reminded of his own Padawan. He would never forget the sight of the small boy, much smaller than his agemates, struggling to keep up, determined to succeed. He had endured much. He had never understood why young Kenobi had been forced to endure such arduous trials through out his life, but now he knew. It was all in preparation for this defining moment when Obi-Wan Kenobi stared temptation in the eye and made the darkness blink. He longed to see the young Knight. To see how this knowledge of his place in the Force shined through and around him.
He wondered for a moment if Qui-Gon had been witness to the moment. Somehow that felt right whether to confirm the man's mistakes or to redeem his final efforts, it was right that Qui-Gon see the boy who he had once rejected become the greatest of them all. There was no bitterness in Yoda towards his old padawan. Qui-Gon had always been a difficult one to get through to. Each student gifted with his own talents. It had been after all Jinn's deep calm and unwavering resolve that had ended so many conflicts through out the galaxy. He was a negotiator, he was the composure of peace. He had been coupled with a warrior. Kenobi had been trained as a negotiator, no doubt a leading of the Force, and those skills would now serve him best in his new role within the Order.
Under the training of Qui-Gon he had learned the art of compromise and the skill of persuasion. Under the training of Yoda he had come to believe in himself and fight without hesitation. It was about trust. The lesson he had not learned under his first Master, Yoda had made certain that he learned from him. No negotiator or warrior was worth his weight in the Force unless he trusted not only those around him but most of all himself.
Anakin pulled back, his brows furrowed and a slight blush of embarrassment at his emotional display.
"Master Yoda, I apologize I know that it is wrong for me to show so much emotion." His eyes were down cast. Anakin felt ashamed that in the first moments after being accepted fully back into the Temple he had failed. Yoda waited until those eyes sought his own before continuing.
"Nothing wrong have you done. A Jedi has emotions. A Jedi feels very deeply. Ruled by his emotions he cannot be, but have them he must. For it is only from compassion, love, and mercy that a Jedi finds reason to protect." He smiled and reached for his walking stick. "Much I have to do. With me you may come or sleep here you may." He offered.
"Could I really come with you?" Anakin asked.
"Arranging I am for your mother's purchase. Helpful you would be. Know not how to deal with these slavers. Know how you must." Anakin nodded a bubble of happiness growing in his chest. He was going to see his mother. He was going to be with her once again. It wasn't exactly the heroic rescue he had fantasized about, but somehow now it didn't matter as long as he had her back.
"War does not make a Jedi great." Yoda spoke reading the young boy's mind. Anakin realized his shields were still shattered.
"Then what does?" Anakin asked.
"Putting yourself before others. Defending those who are too weak to fight for themselves. Giving though no one realizes your sacrifice. Forgiving in spite of the hurt that remains. Living honestly while others would live to deceive. Loving when hate would come easier. Giving mercy, lending compassion, and always extending hope to those who have none." Anakin considered the Master's words. He wrote them on his heart vowing to live by them each day to come.
Yoda considered again the qualities that he had just affirmed to the young boy. There were many great Jedi who had walked the corridors of the Temple, learned their katas, studied their coursework and meditated in the gardens. Many great beings who had set themselves aside for the betterment of others. How close that sacrifice had come to being lost? How close had the Order come to utter destruction?
Yoda refused to consider the visions which he had seen over the last five years. Visions of darkness, of death, of betrayal and of loss, had haunted the master, but now he felt hope because of the renewal ricocheting through the Force. He recognized the familiar signature in those cascading waves, he knew that all would be well in time because the one who had almost been lost chose to live by these words. Obi-Wan Kenobi was now the Chosen One but at the same time he would always a Jedi.
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Adi froze, her mouth dry she found herself unable to utter the words she longed to dispatch. Luckily Mace's mouth was working fine.
"The Chosen One?" He almost laughed. "Do you see him as a commodity that I have the power to bargain with?" His brow was furrowed as he regarded Dooku with unveiled distain.
"He is one of you. I was one of you. I want him with me." Dooku felt his position shift slightly. Perhaps he had overestimated the Masters desire to rid the galaxy of the sith.
"He is. You WERE." Adi spat angrily as she finally found her voice. "Obi- Wan Kenobi would never willingly go with you." She hissed. Dooku felt an idea spark at her words. He smiled arrogantly at the beautiful Master. She suppressed a shudder in response. It was almost as if she expected worms to crawl out from behind the fallen Jedi's teeth.
"You know him so well." He said his voice deep and seductive. Mace felt an uneasy feeling come over him.
"Don't even think about it." The Master warned.
Dooku leered as he suddenly shot bolts of energy out and into the Master sending Mace collasping to the floor. He writhed in pain as he tried to find a way to block the energy. Reveling from shock he reached for his shield but felt his body already giving way to the pain and slipping into the darkness. He braced himself against the pull searching for anything he could use to combat the attack. He had to stay conscious. Adi needed him. She was wounded and unarmed. Pushing blindly up from the floor he once again tried to find his footing. Just as he believed he would find the strength to stand another stronger wave hit him slamming him against the other side of the corridor where he then slipped limply to the floor. The last thing he heard before slipping away was the sound of Adi begging for his life.
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They heard them just a few moments before they appeared around the corner up ahead.
"Obi" Siri cried out as she saw his familiar face approaching. She was equally grateful to find Qui-Gon and Bant with him. She wondered where Master Gallia was. She was already considering possibilities when we realized that she had overlooked an important detail. There was a sith leading the Jedi towards she and Garin.
She heard Garin's saber hiss to life and was just about to activate her own when Bant's voice stopped them. "She's on our side." They both looked at one another their confusion evident.
"How can a sith be on our side? There are only two sides. Jedi or sith." Siri asked as the group came to a halt in front to the two Knights. Siri gave the sith a wary look, sizing up the female in front of her. Siri's thumb never left the activation trigger on her saber, as she listened for further explanation.
"No you're wrong." Obi-Wan smirked. "There are two sides but it is them and us. She is one of us." Siri accepted her friend's reasoning and smiled as she reached for him and pulled him into a tight embrace.
"I felt you through the Force Big Shot." She quipped doing her best to hide any sense of admiration.
"I felt you too Small Fry." He teased in return as they placed their foreheads together affectionately for a moment. It was something that they had done for a long time to comfort one another. It was obvious that this was neither the time nor the place for the old friends to hash out the events of the last few hours, but it was understood that if they survived that they would eventually reason it all out together.
"Well I'm here to rescue you again." Garin dead panned interrupting the moment and causing Obi-Wan to chuckle.
"So is this the part where you throw me over your shoulder and carry me to safety or are we skipping that?" Obi-Wan came back at the Knight. Garin tried to hold his smile at bay but it leaked out around the corners.
"We'll skip it." Obi-Wan nodded. "This time." Garin added seriously. Knight Kenobi's gratitude had been clearly stated in the gaze and slight nod he had offered his friend. Garin had never expected any thanks for his support and loyalty to the man, but it was nice to know that Obi-Wan appreciated the fact that he had voluntarily faced down the sith for his sake.
"Well this is a nice reunion, but I'm sure the sith are anxious to get away." Qui-Gon interrupted bringing their mission back into focus.
"Right." Obi-Wan responded turning his attention to Pratell. "How much further?"
"Three more turns, one at the end of this corridor then two quick turns and we're there." She explained still keeping the two new Knights in her line of sight.
"Great. Let's go. We still have to catch up with Masters Gallia and Windu." Bant declared as they headed out once again falling in behind Pratell. The corridor was long and narrow. Due to the limited space the Jedi broke up into pairs, running two abreast in order to allow each the necessary area required to activate his or her saber if need be. Qui-Gon chose to hang back in order to keep a guard up against any sith coming up from behind them.
Just as the group made the final turn, Pratell came to an immediate halt. She didn't feel the impact of the bodies behind her as she focused on the lump in the middle of the floor half way up the new corridor.
"Pratell?" Obi-Wan asked as he tried to help Siri regain her balancing after plowing into him. Bant and Garin were already untangling themselves. Qui-Gon had allowed enough space so that he remained unaffected.
Obi-Wan followed Pratell's gaze and realized that what he had thought first to be some sort of shadow was indeed a person lying crumpled on the ground. His heart stopped as he realized that the person was obviously a Jedi. He moved closer not sure what to hope for. He didn't know how he would be able to bear it if Adi was lost to him and yet he knew Mace was Qui-Gon's dearest friend as well. He reached out to the Force and found that it was Mace and not Adi lying before him. He could feel Qui-Gon moving up behind him and passed this knowledge silently to the Master. He felt a sharp spike in the man's concern, but then a moment later felt Qui- Gon find his center once more. Obi-Wan marveled yet again at the Master's ability to stay in the moment.
Once they reached the man they both immediately went to their knees. Reaching out Obi-Wan turned the man onto his back. There were scorch marks across his cloak and tunic. They were ragged black markings that smelled of burned fabric and unfortunately flesh. This had not been a saber attack. Obi-Wan glanced up and saw his concern reflected in his Master's eyes. .
"Mace?" He asked feeling for a pulse. The rest of the group had caught up with the two and were staring down at the fallen Jedi with deepest concern. Garin set up a perimeter of protection, he took the rear guard while Bant the forward.
"Is he?" Siri asked not sure that she wanted the answer.
"He's alive." Obi-Wan sighed as he tried to access the man's injuries. "Will you help me Qui-Gon? You always were better at this than I am." Qui- Gon nodded as he began accessing his friend's condition. After a quick scan Qui-Gon found his concern for Mace increasing.
"He's in shock. Whatever happened to him overloaded his neuro systems and caused them to temporarily shut down. Luckily it seems that his heart continued to beat, but his respirations are weak as are his reflexes." Qui- Gon stated firmly. Seeing his friend this way, he realized that the gnawing feeling in his stomach had returned. He had relaxed too soon. This battle was far from over. They were far from being safe. Even with the Chosen One in their company there would still be losses and defeats. He had never considered this option.
"Let me try something." Obi-Wan stated reading his Master's concern in his voice the Knight was determined to do whatever he could to help this brave man who had willingly risked his life to save his. Placing his hand upon Mace's forehead, Obi-Wan reached for the new power he had discovered earlier. Reaching out he could see what it was that was wrong within the larger man.
"His nerves have been more than just turned off, they have been fried." He reached out sending healing waves of energy to sooth the sparking nerves in the Master's mind. He watched as the soothing energy began to wrap itself around the damaged nerves insulating them once more. Like a circuit being re-install, Obi-Wan watched as Mace's systems came back online.
He and Qui-Gon smiled at one another when moments later Mace began to stir slightly.
"Hold him still. He shouldn't move about until Mirilent has seen him. " Obi- Wan stated. Mace recognized the voice as well as the brief touch in his mind. He was comforted to know that he had been found by friends and not more sith. He began breathing easier but still felt an overwhelming sense of exhaustion. He forced himself to open his eyes knowing that when he did that the pain would be immense.
"Sh. Mace just rest." Qui-Gon soothed.
"C..an.t." He struggled out. His voice was hoarse and raspy.
"Mace all will be well." Obi-Wan tried to sooth even though he had no idea if the Master would recover fully or not at this point. He longed to call for Mirilent now, but had no idea what dangers still surrounded them. He didn't dare involve anyone else until he knew that the area was secure.
Obi-Wan was amazed as Mace fought bravely against the pain. He desperately reached for Obi-Wan and began pulling the Knight closer to his face. There was a compelling urgency in Mace's actions. Obi-Wan lowered his head placing his ear a few inches from the man's mouth.
"A.Ad.Adi." The man finally managed. Obi-Wan immediately stiffened but forced himself to remain calm. He released his fears and apprehension, determined to stay focused on what Mace was trying to relay to him.
"What about her Mace? Is she safe? Do you know where she is?" Obi-Wan stared down at the Master, his brilliant green eyes pleading with the man to tell him something good. Mace shook his head. He continued to struggle against the searing sensation racing through his body.
"Not safe." Obi-Wan's felt a lump form in his throat as he braced himself to hear the news. Struggling to take a deep breath Mace knew he had to somehow convey what he knew before he slipped away once more. Focusing on each word, then each letter in each word, he managed to get the information out.
"Not safe. Dooku has her." He paused swallowing against the ever present need to scream out from his wounds.
"Dooku? Why would he want her? " Obi-Wan thought his face slowly turning to stone as he realized the answer to his own question. Dooku didn't want Adi. He was using her to get what he wanted. Dooku wanted him.
This was what the Knight had feared all along, having to choose between a person he loved and the darkness. He knew what his choice had to be. He just hoped he had the strength to make it.
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Okay only a few hours late. That's not too bad. I want to thank my hubby and son for their technical advice on this one. They are always so willing to give me the time, support and input that I need. Once again I will try to get the next post out on time next Saturday but if it's a day or two late know that I am just trying to get it right. Thanks for hanging in there with me. We are close now. Don't give up yet..not with the end in sight. A few people have written me to ask if there will be a sequel. At first I thought 'No!' but that was the fatigue talking. Maybe after a few weeks off there will be one. I'd be interested to know how many of you would like to see one. After all I write for myself but it sure is a lot more fun when people are willing to read it. Thanks again for your continued support. Until next week.jesse
