Master Riddon had just come from being outside when he saw the Jedi master holding to his head. At first he thought Qui-Gon was in some kind of way ill then he realized he must have made some kind of mental link with his son.
Jinn threw his arm out to stop the master from coming closer or speaking. He did not want the mental communication with his son to be interfered with in any way. The voice so feathery light touched his mind Qui held to every syllable to every word. He needed to find out the location of Obi-Wan . He had not attempted to speak to the little boy because he feared that shock of hearing his father voice in his mind might startle the boy enough to break their link, cause Obi-Wan to shut his at least now opened shields.
//Please Dad come and get me. Its not my fault this time really. Grandfather took me and I couldn't stop him. Pleeease Dad, I promise to work harder for you at becoming a Jedi. Just don't leave me with him. //
Qui-Gon knew they were making no headway. Obi-Wan in his young confusion was not telling his master where he was just begging his forgiveness of what Qui-Gon did not know. He knew he would have to risk breaking the connection by trying to speak to his son through their bond.
//Obi please stop a minute. I am not angry with you. I want to come get you but you have to tell me or try to direct me in your direction. Do you know which way or where Dooku has taken you? Have you gone off planet?//
Qui-Gon realized he was probably talking too much through the bond. The child did not have time to answer any of his question,but he had to ask them Let his imp have time to think of them before he possibly lost connection with him.
Then it was time to just wait. Wait ands see if the child would answer him, would keep his shields down long enough to give his father at least a little something to go on about his whereabouts.
Beads of sweat formed on the Master's forehead as the minutes passed one by one, making the time pass endlessly to slow. Qui-Gon was just about to give up and continue walking. He had not moved a muscles since first receiving the message from Obi. Even Master Riddon remained frozen in the spot that Jinn stopped him to wait for some kind sign that Obi-Wan understood his dad and in turn would send a little something about where he was.
The master had almost given up on the idea that Obi-Wan has successfully kept his shields open. Eveindently he had accidently let them close either under fear or confusion. Qui-Gon got no respose.Just as he started to make a comment to Master Riddon, the little lost quivering voice of his son came through their bond.
//Dad, I am somewhere near the foot of a mountain. I don't know where.. The….. Travel… no .more than an hour. Wait….ship to arrive. //
The mental communiqué between father and son was breaking up which usually meant Obi's shield were going up and down like a yo yo. Qui-Gon however understood enough of the message to know what the boy said. The last words scared the master for he knew not how long he had before the ship would arrive and take his son wherever Dooku planned to go.
"Master Riddon, Obi said he is no more than a hour a way at the base of a mountain. He also said he is waiting on a space ship to take him off world." "Then what we have to do is go get the map and search for a hover port in an hours distance from here near the mountains."
Riddon led Master Jinn to his own office and retrieved a map of the local area from one of the many shelves.
It only took matter of minutes to find what they were looking for on the map.
"YES, That's it. Why I didn't just think of it I don't know. It just be my aging mind. We use to use this port Master Jinn for the Jedi going off word I on misiion.Well we used it before we have our own built. "
Even as he told the story of the forgotten hover port both masters were making their way out the office to the front door. They would use the smaller transport only able to hold three or four because it was faster.
Speed was what Qui-Gon needed right now. He wanted to get to Obi-Wan before his grandfather had a chance to get him off the planet. It would be exceedingly harder for Master Jinn to locate Obi-Wan especially with the unstable bond if they reached outer space.
The trip that took Dooku an hour Jinn hopped would take the a lot less. They had never readied for a trip as fast as they did that day. Grabbing just what they needed making sure Saber quartz were energized and the temple Coruscant were noticed where they were going Jinn piloted the ship into the direction of the port.
Qui-Gon had Riddon take over the landing of the small ship. He was at the door , hand on the door's lock waiting to literally jump out of the ship when it finally did touch ground. The hover port was small and there were only a couple of other ships there, but the large Jedi recognized a small sleek new model sitting at the end of a runway. It looked exactly like the one that shuttled Senator Palpatine from planet to planet on dignitary missions.
Jinn always expected Palpatine had something to do with the missing children, so he was not surprised to see Dooku sporting the sleek ship actually owned by the government of Coruscant but was doing the dirt deeds of both the Senator and Dooku. Qui-Gon never believed for a moment Dooku was in this alone. No he needed a backbone for something like this and since he didn't have one it would have to be a higher power behind him to supply him one.
Even before the ship came to a complete stop Jinn had the hatch opened and was taking a running jump out of it. He ran to where the ship still remained, but the engines revving and things being loaded on it.
Master Riddon, being quite a bit older than Jinn fumbled with his seat belt and took a bit longer to get out of the ship. He couldn't make the astounding flying leap that Jinn had done, so he just casually walked out of the ship and then a little more hastily headed in the direction Qui-Gon had darted too.
Just in side the small hanger lay his son asleep or injured Jinn didn't have the time to know which one. He felt Obi's force signature and knew the boy wasn't dead. Just to the boy's right stood Dooku with his back turned to Master Jinn. Master Dooku didn't even know of Jinn's speedy arrival until he heard the all too familiar sizzling of the sound of a Jedi light saber, Jinn's Jedi light saber being powered up for battle.
Dooku hardly had enough time to turn and pull his own saber before the giant of the Jedi was upon him, prepared to engage in a fierce battle. If one could estimate a person's anger by the glazed over look of pure hatred that they pressed into their opponent, then this battle would not end until one Jedi master lay dead on the floor of that hangar.
Only moments into the battle and Qui-Gon realized that he had forgotten how much voracity Dooku put behind his battles. He was indeed a swordsman of high caliber with his light saber. Age had not dulled his abilities whatsoever, other than maybe being a bit slower in his movements. With the power behind his saber swing Jinn soon realized that diminished speed from age might be the only way he would defeat his former master in this duel. Master Dooku was just that *damn* good.
The aged master landed the first blow. While not too damaging, it singed the sleeve of Qui-Gon's robe and the odor of burning skin permeated the air before it was expelled through the front door of the hangar.
Riddon just rushed in that door and immediately ran to the small padawan laying lifeless on the ground. He picked the child up and took him to the other side of hangar, away from the battle so that no more harm could come to him. The aged master Riddon knelt down and began checking the boy out with his force powers for possible injury or for any poisons in his systems. The only thing he really knew that kept the boy in a state of sleep was a force induced slumber he was put in by his Grandfather to cause no trouble. That was what kept Obi from coming in as clear. He had been kept groggy and incoherent the entire trip.
Master Jinn regained his balance after the singing first blow by Dooku. Yes this was more than Qui-Gon bargained for, but he was just as determined as when he started to defeat this dark Jedi or he would die trying. He didn't plan to go through life wondering when he would choose again to come for his grandson, *his* son.
Jin parried forward took two steps and made a lunge toward Dooku. His instincts told him if he could go for the *kill* then do it for that was what he former master would do and had always taught Qui-Gon to do.
The tip of the glowing green saber made contact but that was about all. It barely burnt though the chest of Dooku's tunic. Dooku smiled a sinister smile at Jinn. He seemed just as impressed with himself as Qui-Gon was with hin when they first started the battle.
Master Dooku shuffled his feet back and then sidestepped the next thrust of Jinn's saber. Dooku not only thought he was good he knew he was. He began to think that he was better than his former student. So much he had heard about Qui-Gon abilities, and they seemed to have paled in an actual battle. Dooku was a good twenty-five years older and he was not only holding his ground, he was taking Qui-Gon's.
Inch by inch he stepped further, each step backed Qui-Gon closer to the wall. The infamous Master Jinn was now trapped against the wall to his back, Dooku blocking him front the front.
He brought his saber down to make what he thought would be the death blow to Qui-Gon. Instead, Jinn threw his saber up on his chest and the saber blades met with the fiery of fire as sparks emitted from both blades. Qui-Gon gritted his teeth and held off his attacker. They were eye to eye and a breath space between them.
"I thought you would be better than this. With all the rumors flying around at the temple of the great Master Jinn and he lets an old man beat him. Tsk, Tsk, Qui-Gon, I am very disappointed in your fighting abilities. I suppose Master Yoda started the false rumors about your astounding use of the saber.
He was being goaded, nothing more and the taller Jedi knew it. Which Jedi was better was now a moot observation. Who came out alive would be the deciding factor of the best Jedi in this battle. With one quick force push Jinn managed to topple the other master. Dooku on the ground, immediately grabbed for his saber that had been knocked out of his hand.
Qui-Gon reached down to bodily lift the master off the ground when Dooku reached his saber. Just as Qui-Gon bent down to him, Master Dooku leveled his saber right at Jinn's stomach. The master stopped just as the tip of the saber hit his tunic and stepped back a couple of steps to avoid being speared. Dooku was able to raise himself off the ground at that moment. The next attack was just a flurry of sudden quick slashes being repeated in mid-air. A streak of red was preceded by a streak of green from Master Jinn's saber. Neither Jedi master seemed to be making an actual blow on the other, just the clashings of sabers were heard through the hangar.
Master Riddon had at first intended to stay with Obi-Wan but he decided he should get into the battle and finally get the older master under control. While Master Riddon was himself old, he, still had a few tricks up his sleeve when it came to battling with his saber. Maybe they were taught in the old school, but his saber techniques were still very helpful. They did what they were meant too, defeat the enemy.
The most famous of Jedi's, Dooku didn't even notice he was being flanked from the rear by Master Riddon. He wasn't even aware of the man's presence because of the intensity of battle he was in with Master Jinn.
Qui-Gon advanced forward causing his opponent to step back step by step still not aware of the Jedi master, Riddon behind him, just standing there waiting for Dooku to make the step that would cause his back to feel the pressure of the point of Riddon's saber as he extended it forward and waited.
That final step was taken when Master Jinn literally lunged forward toward his son's grandfather trying with all his might to actually pierce his saber through the heart of Master Dooku. In that very moment Jinn did not care if he brought the death to Dooku or not.. A part of him wanted Dooku permanently done away with. He didn't want Obi-Wan to ever have to deal with his grandfather again.
Dooku felt the saber behind him and abruptly stopped. He was trapped. No where to go, he must either surrender or fight to his death. He held his postiion, Riddon's saber pressing ever so close to his spine and Jinn's saber directed at his very heart from the front.
"Well Master Jinn seems you have lucked into a victory. Finish, get it over with. That is what you want isn't it, my death?"
"What I wanted was my son to be left alone. I was content to leave you to your own devices once you came up missing if you didn't come near Obi-Wan. You certainly don't expect me to allow you to live and try something like this later do you?"
Riddon stared at the two Jedi before him. He knew with his faithful conscience of a Jedi, he would not allow Jinn to just out and out kill the master. He was contained now. There was no reason for more violence.
"Master Jinn I think we should just get Master Dooku's saber and we can take him to the proper authorities."
Master Riddon was not even sure Qui-Gon heard him. The master's eyes were locked on Master Dooku almost daring the master to make a move. He wanted Dooku to attmept escape so he would have a verifiable reason to push his saber straight thorough Dooku. His attempt at escape didn't happen. Dooku at least appeared to have designed to the fact he was a captive of the Jedi now instead of one of them. He waited. Jinn heard the clang of Dooku's saber as he dropped it to the cement ground, it hilt hitting the floor rang through the echoes of the hangar. Still Master Jinn held his ground. One little push more and the front of Dooku's tunic scorched black by the towering master's own saber. All he had to was push one more time and turn. Straight through Dooku's heart Jinn's saber would go.
"Master Jinn that is enough. We have Dooku. He has surrendered. Allow me to take him to the temple in Coruscant. They can handle it from there."
"Why? to allow him to come back one day and bring my son harm. I don't think so."
"Qui, hasn't Obi-Wan been betrayed enough by his family. His grandfather, his mother , sith man even your mother and nephew. The only true family Obi-Wan has is you. And if the truth be known the only family to love you unconditionally is Obi. Don't sever that relationship with this nasty business. How can you teach Obi-Wan to become a great Jedi knight if you yourself do not abide by our mantra? We are not in harms way now. You just can't kill Dooku, or anyone in cold blood. That is not what the Jedi are. We are above that. You of all people should know that."
It was as if something clicked in his mind. Yes, he knew well he couldn't kill Dooku in cold blood. If he did he would never be able to look his son in the eye. Jinn lowered his saber down to his side and waited while Riddon cuffed Dooku. Out of the corner of the hangar a very small sleepy voice was heard.
"Dad, I'm over here. Is everything alright.?"
As Jinn raced to get his son he answered.
"Everything is more than alright now my *imp*."
Qui-Gon Jinn bent down and picked his *imp* up. Obi-Wan instantly found the warmth of the folds of Qui-Gon's robe and nestled in them. Qui-Gon thought everything was over. Dooku was in custody.
No one knew that behind his back in the folds of his own robe, Dooku worked frantically to get the cups off.
Master Riddon walked over to where Qui-Gon was in the middle of a big hug with is son. Everything was alright now and Obi-Wan had nothing to fear. That was what he kept whispering to the little one safely in his arms.
Riddon had a big smile on his face as he walked toward father/ son , master/apprentice. He was immensely glad that Master Jinn dropped his saber and he didn't have to get into some kind of battle with his new friend. That is what he considered Master Jinn now a true friend.
Dooku managed to get the cuffs off but held them in his hands which still remained behind his back. Riddon had not bothered to pick up his saber and Dooku started edging his way very slowly, unnoticed toward where it still lay on the hangar floor.
Qui-Gon saw a slight movement by Dooku but before he could do anything Dooku raced over to his fallen saber and threw the cuffs a crossed the room. He activated the glowing red saber and attacked the Jedi who were still unarmed. Jinn could not get to his saber and Riddon was struggling with his to get it out of its casing.
Even as the enraged Jedi master advanced toward where the two masters had been talking, it was clear his attack would be directed at Jinn and more importantly at the child.The saber did not seem to be aimed at the tall Jedi master, Dooku had his saber leveled at Obi-Wan, Jinn's padawan. Qui-Gon was torn between throwing the child down or just drawing his saber and hope he could ward off the attack by Dooku.
Jinn had Obi-Wan sitting loosely on his left arm. With his freed right hand he pulled his saber and was able to cause Dooku's blow to glance noisily off his own saber blade. Master Riddon had backed away from the battle a little, but only to repositioned himself.
He made a lunge for Dooku and horribly misjudged the dark Jedi's ability to move more quickly than he could. Master Riddon landed on the floor, his Jedi robes tangled around his feet making it harder for him to regain his battle stance.
Obi-Wan pulled himself up until his breath heated the Jedi master's neck as he tried to battle Dooku with the child still nestled on his left arm. Obi's chubby little fingers clung tighter to his master and father , his eyes closed as tightly as anyone could get their eyes. He was clearly terrified and Master Jinn could feel it through their bond.
A touch of pride hit the Jedi's heart as he realized his son had finally and fully opened their bond, but he had not time to think about it now or to praise the little one for his efforts in restoring it.
He watched as Master Dooku made another attempt at reaching Obi-Wan with his saber. This one looked harder to battle. Jinn threw his saber up and was almost tempted to close his eyes for he feared the worst. He thought he might not have angled his saber the correct way to dodge the blade of Dooku.
It was like watching something in slow motion. Jinn threw his right hand up with the saber in it and watched as he estimated Dooku's blow. It would not land this time on his blade. Jinn was not going to be able to stop the slashing motion of Dooku's saber which was headed straight for his son. Qui-Gon did not even have time to move. Qui-Gon's eyes grew wide with fear. Just then he watched as Jedi Master Dooku fell to the ground. When he did, he-landed face-down. Qui-Gon Jinn could see some of the glow of Master Riddon's saber as it remained buried in the back of Obi-Wan's grandfather.
Master Dooku ,for all his efforts had only managed to cause his own death by another master, over the protection of his grandson, Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Qui-Gon looked up to see Master Riddon plant a questioning look on his face.
"I said a Jedi should never kill unless it was for self-defense. My reasons were even more pure. They were to save an innocent child from what most assuredly would have been his death by his own grandfather's hand. There is no justice in that and there is no shame in my killing him."
The only words to come from the master's mouth was "thank you", as he battled with his son unsuccessfully to keep him from seeing the gore of his grandfather's death. Master Dooku lay on the floor in a puddle of his own blood.
Obi-Wan looked down and screamed at the sight he witnessed. He had never seen anything like that and certainly not his grandfather. The boy gripped his father even tighter. Jinn could feel his pain and terror as it made its way to Jinn through their now-opened bond.
Qui-Gon pressed his hand gently but firmly on the boy's back trying to expel some of his fear. Under the large calloused hand of Master Jinn, the little one lay terrified and trembling after having been nearly killed by his own grandfather.
Master Riddon took his robe off and covered the body of the once great Jedi Dooku so Obi-Wan would not be tempted to look down and see his grandfather again.
Not at all a good ending for a bad situation, but Master Riddon was comforted by the knowledge he could have done nothing other than kill the Jedi. He would not stand by and allow the man to kill a child for his own vengeful reasons.
Master Riddon told Jinn to go on and find another way back to their temple. He would have the body of Master Dooku loaded on their ship and then take the remains to Coruscant for cremation.
What the council did when he arrived would be up to them. Neither Qui-Gon or Master Riddon thought it a good idea to take Master Dooku's body back to their temple where Obi-Wan would be traumatized even more knowing it was on the ship and then in the temple were he was.
As Qui-Gon made his way to the main office of the landing port he continually made gentle circular motions on Obi-Wan's back. It seemed to soothe the boy in his arms who had yet to open his tightly clinched eyes. Qui-Gon thought Obi-Wan might just find a way to bury himself in the folds of Jinn's robe and not venture out until they were home.
It would have been more than alright for the boy to find his way deeper in Jinn's robe because he had already found his way *permanently* in his heart…..
Qui-Gon had suffered through a long and weary trip. He thought maybe his arm would fall off. Obi-Wan had not given up his perfect seating arrangement, perched on his master's left forearm all the way home. Qui-Gon decided not to the take the child to the temple. He would take him home to the farm house.
He walked the several steps needed to reach the porch of his little home. Before they entered, Obi-Wan took both of his little hands stained with tears and dirt from the hangar floor and turned his father's face gently so their eyes could meet.
"Is it really alright now Dad?"
It was only about the hundredth time the little one had asked the identical question. But the patient side of a father kicked in and Qui-Gon answered the question for the hundredth time that things would be fine.
He couldn't help but think maybe Obi-Wan asked now as they went into their home because of Myra, Jinn's very mother. She had been no more of a grandmother to Obi than Dooku had been a grandfather.
Qui-Gon wondered why they even wanted to be around children for neither one of them knew how a little one should be treated. Damien was another story. Jinn thought he might be able to salvage the boy if he was gotten away from his grandmother. Qui-Gon had almost decided what had to be done. Now all he had to do was break the news to his mother.
Qui-Gon thought he was certainly glad his mother didn't have a saber because once she found out his plans she might want to use it on him. However the master knew he would be doing the right thing for both boys; his son and his ward, Damien. He could only do what he felt was in the best interest for both boys' future and that is what he planned to do.
Myra was more than shocked, she seemed almost angry that Qui-Gon had brought the child back to the farm where Qui-Gon was suppose to be spending time with Damien. She knew of Obi's disappearance but she had not spent any time worrying about him.
Damien on the other hand did seem glad that Jinn had gotten his son back safe and sound but he also would have preferred his uncle to have come home by himself.
"Qui-Gon is everything alright? Master Riddon commed us and said you were coming home and he told us of Master Dooku's untimely death, but we have no way of knowing that you planned to bring Obi-Wan back here."
"Why be so surprised Mother. He is my son and this is equally his home as is it yours and Damien's."
Jinn went to sit the boy down, but Obi only clung tighter to his father. Jinn knew the boy could tell his grandmother was not pleased with his return home.
"Mother I hope you have some food prepared. Obi-Wan and I both need a bath and hot tea with a hot meal. I will be in my room. Damien could you go to Obi-Wan's room and get his extra pair of favorite pajamas; the ones with the little blue and yellow space ships on them."
"For *sith's* sake Qui, put the boy down. He has two good legs."
PLEASE MOTHER!! The *boy* as you call him has been through more than any little one should have to go through. He needs the comfort of my arms and he will get anything and everything he needs. Now if you will excuse me I want to go put the *boy* in a hot tub of water and get some of this dirt off of him."
Myra held her mouth closed almost forcibly . She had so many cruel and vindictive things to say but had to stop herself. She would have liked very much to have reminded Qui-Gon that the same blood that ran through Obi-Wan's mother and his grandfather also ran through Obi-Wan. She would have insinuated the same darkness the lurked in his mother and grandfather lurked in him. He wasn't worth her son's time and effort. Yes so much she wanted to say but feared what her son would do if she said them. She saw how much Qui-Gon had grown to love the little boy. No he would not give his son up now.
Master Jinn woke up before his son. He sat at the desk and filled out a report of the day's happenings. He already contacted Yoda and let him know Obi was as well as could be expected. He sat there and watched, just watched his son sleep thankful he had him back and safely.
He just barely nudged the child's mind to feel their shared bond a little more intensely. He watched Obi-Wan as a smile spread over his face and he snuggled his head into the fluffy pillows even more.
Qui-Gon walked out to get a cup of tea and found his mother sitting at the dining table, herself in thought about something.
"Well is the *boy* alright now?"
"I think he is mother. He is still asleep. He has a name mother, Obi-Wan if you care to use it sometimes."
"I think I know his name Qui. Well what now? You have too many pans in the fire Qui-Gon. You need to focus on one and let the rest go."
"I know what you mean mother. I am spread too thin right now. I have come to several decisions on what I want out of my life. I know with all the certainty I can what I want."
"I suppose you will be taking the boy back to your temple and leaving Damien and I here? I knew he would come between you and Damien. He has caused you to lie to your only brother on his death bed. You have no intentions of caring for Damien as if he were your won."
"No, you are wrong on several things Mother. No I am not Damien's father and I don't want to be. His father is dead but he existed. However I do very much want to see the boy thrive and do well in his life. I am also the *father* of Obi-Wan. Try to remember that mother as I tell you of my decision. Yes, I plan to train Obi-Wan but not at my little temple. Master Riddon is more than capable of running the temple and I plan to go to Coruscant."
Myra let out a long groaning sigh as if in actual pain.
"You plan to leave the planet." The words were not spoken, they were shouted. "You will never be home to see to Damien as he grows older. He needs you Qui-Gon."
"I know that mother and you are jumping to too many conclusions. I have gotten a friend of mine to pay up on a favor you might say. Damien will be going to the University of Coruscant, one of the best. Obi-Wan will be trained at the temple Coruscant. If I should go on missions before he reaches the age of apprenticeship and it is too dangerous for him then I will leave him in the care of Master Yoda or Master Windu."
"Yes, he was always too good in your eyes to be left with me wasn't he?"
"That was not it at all mother. You never had a kind word for the boy. I will always remember the handprint bruise you put on his little cheek. No mother I won't leave Obi-Wan with you, ever."
Myra ignored her son's remarks about her abusing his son.
"You said you are taking Damien and I to Coruscant, when should we be ready?"
"Again Mother you heard only what you wanted to hear. I said I would be taking Obi-Wan and Damien with me. There was never a mention of *where* you would go……"
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One more post!! Then it will be completed. Thank you all for reading and a special thanks to those of you do who take the time to post.
PEACE ewen
Jinn threw his arm out to stop the master from coming closer or speaking. He did not want the mental communication with his son to be interfered with in any way. The voice so feathery light touched his mind Qui held to every syllable to every word. He needed to find out the location of Obi-Wan . He had not attempted to speak to the little boy because he feared that shock of hearing his father voice in his mind might startle the boy enough to break their link, cause Obi-Wan to shut his at least now opened shields.
//Please Dad come and get me. Its not my fault this time really. Grandfather took me and I couldn't stop him. Pleeease Dad, I promise to work harder for you at becoming a Jedi. Just don't leave me with him. //
Qui-Gon knew they were making no headway. Obi-Wan in his young confusion was not telling his master where he was just begging his forgiveness of what Qui-Gon did not know. He knew he would have to risk breaking the connection by trying to speak to his son through their bond.
//Obi please stop a minute. I am not angry with you. I want to come get you but you have to tell me or try to direct me in your direction. Do you know which way or where Dooku has taken you? Have you gone off planet?//
Qui-Gon realized he was probably talking too much through the bond. The child did not have time to answer any of his question,but he had to ask them Let his imp have time to think of them before he possibly lost connection with him.
Then it was time to just wait. Wait ands see if the child would answer him, would keep his shields down long enough to give his father at least a little something to go on about his whereabouts.
Beads of sweat formed on the Master's forehead as the minutes passed one by one, making the time pass endlessly to slow. Qui-Gon was just about to give up and continue walking. He had not moved a muscles since first receiving the message from Obi. Even Master Riddon remained frozen in the spot that Jinn stopped him to wait for some kind sign that Obi-Wan understood his dad and in turn would send a little something about where he was.
The master had almost given up on the idea that Obi-Wan has successfully kept his shields open. Eveindently he had accidently let them close either under fear or confusion. Qui-Gon got no respose.Just as he started to make a comment to Master Riddon, the little lost quivering voice of his son came through their bond.
//Dad, I am somewhere near the foot of a mountain. I don't know where.. The….. Travel… no .more than an hour. Wait….ship to arrive. //
The mental communiqué between father and son was breaking up which usually meant Obi's shield were going up and down like a yo yo. Qui-Gon however understood enough of the message to know what the boy said. The last words scared the master for he knew not how long he had before the ship would arrive and take his son wherever Dooku planned to go.
"Master Riddon, Obi said he is no more than a hour a way at the base of a mountain. He also said he is waiting on a space ship to take him off world." "Then what we have to do is go get the map and search for a hover port in an hours distance from here near the mountains."
Riddon led Master Jinn to his own office and retrieved a map of the local area from one of the many shelves.
It only took matter of minutes to find what they were looking for on the map.
"YES, That's it. Why I didn't just think of it I don't know. It just be my aging mind. We use to use this port Master Jinn for the Jedi going off word I on misiion.Well we used it before we have our own built. "
Even as he told the story of the forgotten hover port both masters were making their way out the office to the front door. They would use the smaller transport only able to hold three or four because it was faster.
Speed was what Qui-Gon needed right now. He wanted to get to Obi-Wan before his grandfather had a chance to get him off the planet. It would be exceedingly harder for Master Jinn to locate Obi-Wan especially with the unstable bond if they reached outer space.
The trip that took Dooku an hour Jinn hopped would take the a lot less. They had never readied for a trip as fast as they did that day. Grabbing just what they needed making sure Saber quartz were energized and the temple Coruscant were noticed where they were going Jinn piloted the ship into the direction of the port.
Qui-Gon had Riddon take over the landing of the small ship. He was at the door , hand on the door's lock waiting to literally jump out of the ship when it finally did touch ground. The hover port was small and there were only a couple of other ships there, but the large Jedi recognized a small sleek new model sitting at the end of a runway. It looked exactly like the one that shuttled Senator Palpatine from planet to planet on dignitary missions.
Jinn always expected Palpatine had something to do with the missing children, so he was not surprised to see Dooku sporting the sleek ship actually owned by the government of Coruscant but was doing the dirt deeds of both the Senator and Dooku. Qui-Gon never believed for a moment Dooku was in this alone. No he needed a backbone for something like this and since he didn't have one it would have to be a higher power behind him to supply him one.
Even before the ship came to a complete stop Jinn had the hatch opened and was taking a running jump out of it. He ran to where the ship still remained, but the engines revving and things being loaded on it.
Master Riddon, being quite a bit older than Jinn fumbled with his seat belt and took a bit longer to get out of the ship. He couldn't make the astounding flying leap that Jinn had done, so he just casually walked out of the ship and then a little more hastily headed in the direction Qui-Gon had darted too.
Just in side the small hanger lay his son asleep or injured Jinn didn't have the time to know which one. He felt Obi's force signature and knew the boy wasn't dead. Just to the boy's right stood Dooku with his back turned to Master Jinn. Master Dooku didn't even know of Jinn's speedy arrival until he heard the all too familiar sizzling of the sound of a Jedi light saber, Jinn's Jedi light saber being powered up for battle.
Dooku hardly had enough time to turn and pull his own saber before the giant of the Jedi was upon him, prepared to engage in a fierce battle. If one could estimate a person's anger by the glazed over look of pure hatred that they pressed into their opponent, then this battle would not end until one Jedi master lay dead on the floor of that hangar.
Only moments into the battle and Qui-Gon realized that he had forgotten how much voracity Dooku put behind his battles. He was indeed a swordsman of high caliber with his light saber. Age had not dulled his abilities whatsoever, other than maybe being a bit slower in his movements. With the power behind his saber swing Jinn soon realized that diminished speed from age might be the only way he would defeat his former master in this duel. Master Dooku was just that *damn* good.
The aged master landed the first blow. While not too damaging, it singed the sleeve of Qui-Gon's robe and the odor of burning skin permeated the air before it was expelled through the front door of the hangar.
Riddon just rushed in that door and immediately ran to the small padawan laying lifeless on the ground. He picked the child up and took him to the other side of hangar, away from the battle so that no more harm could come to him. The aged master Riddon knelt down and began checking the boy out with his force powers for possible injury or for any poisons in his systems. The only thing he really knew that kept the boy in a state of sleep was a force induced slumber he was put in by his Grandfather to cause no trouble. That was what kept Obi from coming in as clear. He had been kept groggy and incoherent the entire trip.
Master Jinn regained his balance after the singing first blow by Dooku. Yes this was more than Qui-Gon bargained for, but he was just as determined as when he started to defeat this dark Jedi or he would die trying. He didn't plan to go through life wondering when he would choose again to come for his grandson, *his* son.
Jin parried forward took two steps and made a lunge toward Dooku. His instincts told him if he could go for the *kill* then do it for that was what he former master would do and had always taught Qui-Gon to do.
The tip of the glowing green saber made contact but that was about all. It barely burnt though the chest of Dooku's tunic. Dooku smiled a sinister smile at Jinn. He seemed just as impressed with himself as Qui-Gon was with hin when they first started the battle.
Master Dooku shuffled his feet back and then sidestepped the next thrust of Jinn's saber. Dooku not only thought he was good he knew he was. He began to think that he was better than his former student. So much he had heard about Qui-Gon abilities, and they seemed to have paled in an actual battle. Dooku was a good twenty-five years older and he was not only holding his ground, he was taking Qui-Gon's.
Inch by inch he stepped further, each step backed Qui-Gon closer to the wall. The infamous Master Jinn was now trapped against the wall to his back, Dooku blocking him front the front.
He brought his saber down to make what he thought would be the death blow to Qui-Gon. Instead, Jinn threw his saber up on his chest and the saber blades met with the fiery of fire as sparks emitted from both blades. Qui-Gon gritted his teeth and held off his attacker. They were eye to eye and a breath space between them.
"I thought you would be better than this. With all the rumors flying around at the temple of the great Master Jinn and he lets an old man beat him. Tsk, Tsk, Qui-Gon, I am very disappointed in your fighting abilities. I suppose Master Yoda started the false rumors about your astounding use of the saber.
He was being goaded, nothing more and the taller Jedi knew it. Which Jedi was better was now a moot observation. Who came out alive would be the deciding factor of the best Jedi in this battle. With one quick force push Jinn managed to topple the other master. Dooku on the ground, immediately grabbed for his saber that had been knocked out of his hand.
Qui-Gon reached down to bodily lift the master off the ground when Dooku reached his saber. Just as Qui-Gon bent down to him, Master Dooku leveled his saber right at Jinn's stomach. The master stopped just as the tip of the saber hit his tunic and stepped back a couple of steps to avoid being speared. Dooku was able to raise himself off the ground at that moment. The next attack was just a flurry of sudden quick slashes being repeated in mid-air. A streak of red was preceded by a streak of green from Master Jinn's saber. Neither Jedi master seemed to be making an actual blow on the other, just the clashings of sabers were heard through the hangar.
Master Riddon had at first intended to stay with Obi-Wan but he decided he should get into the battle and finally get the older master under control. While Master Riddon was himself old, he, still had a few tricks up his sleeve when it came to battling with his saber. Maybe they were taught in the old school, but his saber techniques were still very helpful. They did what they were meant too, defeat the enemy.
The most famous of Jedi's, Dooku didn't even notice he was being flanked from the rear by Master Riddon. He wasn't even aware of the man's presence because of the intensity of battle he was in with Master Jinn.
Qui-Gon advanced forward causing his opponent to step back step by step still not aware of the Jedi master, Riddon behind him, just standing there waiting for Dooku to make the step that would cause his back to feel the pressure of the point of Riddon's saber as he extended it forward and waited.
That final step was taken when Master Jinn literally lunged forward toward his son's grandfather trying with all his might to actually pierce his saber through the heart of Master Dooku. In that very moment Jinn did not care if he brought the death to Dooku or not.. A part of him wanted Dooku permanently done away with. He didn't want Obi-Wan to ever have to deal with his grandfather again.
Dooku felt the saber behind him and abruptly stopped. He was trapped. No where to go, he must either surrender or fight to his death. He held his postiion, Riddon's saber pressing ever so close to his spine and Jinn's saber directed at his very heart from the front.
"Well Master Jinn seems you have lucked into a victory. Finish, get it over with. That is what you want isn't it, my death?"
"What I wanted was my son to be left alone. I was content to leave you to your own devices once you came up missing if you didn't come near Obi-Wan. You certainly don't expect me to allow you to live and try something like this later do you?"
Riddon stared at the two Jedi before him. He knew with his faithful conscience of a Jedi, he would not allow Jinn to just out and out kill the master. He was contained now. There was no reason for more violence.
"Master Jinn I think we should just get Master Dooku's saber and we can take him to the proper authorities."
Master Riddon was not even sure Qui-Gon heard him. The master's eyes were locked on Master Dooku almost daring the master to make a move. He wanted Dooku to attmept escape so he would have a verifiable reason to push his saber straight thorough Dooku. His attempt at escape didn't happen. Dooku at least appeared to have designed to the fact he was a captive of the Jedi now instead of one of them. He waited. Jinn heard the clang of Dooku's saber as he dropped it to the cement ground, it hilt hitting the floor rang through the echoes of the hangar. Still Master Jinn held his ground. One little push more and the front of Dooku's tunic scorched black by the towering master's own saber. All he had to was push one more time and turn. Straight through Dooku's heart Jinn's saber would go.
"Master Jinn that is enough. We have Dooku. He has surrendered. Allow me to take him to the temple in Coruscant. They can handle it from there."
"Why? to allow him to come back one day and bring my son harm. I don't think so."
"Qui, hasn't Obi-Wan been betrayed enough by his family. His grandfather, his mother , sith man even your mother and nephew. The only true family Obi-Wan has is you. And if the truth be known the only family to love you unconditionally is Obi. Don't sever that relationship with this nasty business. How can you teach Obi-Wan to become a great Jedi knight if you yourself do not abide by our mantra? We are not in harms way now. You just can't kill Dooku, or anyone in cold blood. That is not what the Jedi are. We are above that. You of all people should know that."
It was as if something clicked in his mind. Yes, he knew well he couldn't kill Dooku in cold blood. If he did he would never be able to look his son in the eye. Jinn lowered his saber down to his side and waited while Riddon cuffed Dooku. Out of the corner of the hangar a very small sleepy voice was heard.
"Dad, I'm over here. Is everything alright.?"
As Jinn raced to get his son he answered.
"Everything is more than alright now my *imp*."
Qui-Gon Jinn bent down and picked his *imp* up. Obi-Wan instantly found the warmth of the folds of Qui-Gon's robe and nestled in them. Qui-Gon thought everything was over. Dooku was in custody.
No one knew that behind his back in the folds of his own robe, Dooku worked frantically to get the cups off.
Master Riddon walked over to where Qui-Gon was in the middle of a big hug with is son. Everything was alright now and Obi-Wan had nothing to fear. That was what he kept whispering to the little one safely in his arms.
Riddon had a big smile on his face as he walked toward father/ son , master/apprentice. He was immensely glad that Master Jinn dropped his saber and he didn't have to get into some kind of battle with his new friend. That is what he considered Master Jinn now a true friend.
Dooku managed to get the cuffs off but held them in his hands which still remained behind his back. Riddon had not bothered to pick up his saber and Dooku started edging his way very slowly, unnoticed toward where it still lay on the hangar floor.
Qui-Gon saw a slight movement by Dooku but before he could do anything Dooku raced over to his fallen saber and threw the cuffs a crossed the room. He activated the glowing red saber and attacked the Jedi who were still unarmed. Jinn could not get to his saber and Riddon was struggling with his to get it out of its casing.
Even as the enraged Jedi master advanced toward where the two masters had been talking, it was clear his attack would be directed at Jinn and more importantly at the child.The saber did not seem to be aimed at the tall Jedi master, Dooku had his saber leveled at Obi-Wan, Jinn's padawan. Qui-Gon was torn between throwing the child down or just drawing his saber and hope he could ward off the attack by Dooku.
Jinn had Obi-Wan sitting loosely on his left arm. With his freed right hand he pulled his saber and was able to cause Dooku's blow to glance noisily off his own saber blade. Master Riddon had backed away from the battle a little, but only to repositioned himself.
He made a lunge for Dooku and horribly misjudged the dark Jedi's ability to move more quickly than he could. Master Riddon landed on the floor, his Jedi robes tangled around his feet making it harder for him to regain his battle stance.
Obi-Wan pulled himself up until his breath heated the Jedi master's neck as he tried to battle Dooku with the child still nestled on his left arm. Obi's chubby little fingers clung tighter to his master and father , his eyes closed as tightly as anyone could get their eyes. He was clearly terrified and Master Jinn could feel it through their bond.
A touch of pride hit the Jedi's heart as he realized his son had finally and fully opened their bond, but he had not time to think about it now or to praise the little one for his efforts in restoring it.
He watched as Master Dooku made another attempt at reaching Obi-Wan with his saber. This one looked harder to battle. Jinn threw his saber up and was almost tempted to close his eyes for he feared the worst. He thought he might not have angled his saber the correct way to dodge the blade of Dooku.
It was like watching something in slow motion. Jinn threw his right hand up with the saber in it and watched as he estimated Dooku's blow. It would not land this time on his blade. Jinn was not going to be able to stop the slashing motion of Dooku's saber which was headed straight for his son. Qui-Gon did not even have time to move. Qui-Gon's eyes grew wide with fear. Just then he watched as Jedi Master Dooku fell to the ground. When he did, he-landed face-down. Qui-Gon Jinn could see some of the glow of Master Riddon's saber as it remained buried in the back of Obi-Wan's grandfather.
Master Dooku ,for all his efforts had only managed to cause his own death by another master, over the protection of his grandson, Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Qui-Gon looked up to see Master Riddon plant a questioning look on his face.
"I said a Jedi should never kill unless it was for self-defense. My reasons were even more pure. They were to save an innocent child from what most assuredly would have been his death by his own grandfather's hand. There is no justice in that and there is no shame in my killing him."
The only words to come from the master's mouth was "thank you", as he battled with his son unsuccessfully to keep him from seeing the gore of his grandfather's death. Master Dooku lay on the floor in a puddle of his own blood.
Obi-Wan looked down and screamed at the sight he witnessed. He had never seen anything like that and certainly not his grandfather. The boy gripped his father even tighter. Jinn could feel his pain and terror as it made its way to Jinn through their now-opened bond.
Qui-Gon pressed his hand gently but firmly on the boy's back trying to expel some of his fear. Under the large calloused hand of Master Jinn, the little one lay terrified and trembling after having been nearly killed by his own grandfather.
Master Riddon took his robe off and covered the body of the once great Jedi Dooku so Obi-Wan would not be tempted to look down and see his grandfather again.
Not at all a good ending for a bad situation, but Master Riddon was comforted by the knowledge he could have done nothing other than kill the Jedi. He would not stand by and allow the man to kill a child for his own vengeful reasons.
Master Riddon told Jinn to go on and find another way back to their temple. He would have the body of Master Dooku loaded on their ship and then take the remains to Coruscant for cremation.
What the council did when he arrived would be up to them. Neither Qui-Gon or Master Riddon thought it a good idea to take Master Dooku's body back to their temple where Obi-Wan would be traumatized even more knowing it was on the ship and then in the temple were he was.
As Qui-Gon made his way to the main office of the landing port he continually made gentle circular motions on Obi-Wan's back. It seemed to soothe the boy in his arms who had yet to open his tightly clinched eyes. Qui-Gon thought Obi-Wan might just find a way to bury himself in the folds of Jinn's robe and not venture out until they were home.
It would have been more than alright for the boy to find his way deeper in Jinn's robe because he had already found his way *permanently* in his heart…..
Qui-Gon had suffered through a long and weary trip. He thought maybe his arm would fall off. Obi-Wan had not given up his perfect seating arrangement, perched on his master's left forearm all the way home. Qui-Gon decided not to the take the child to the temple. He would take him home to the farm house.
He walked the several steps needed to reach the porch of his little home. Before they entered, Obi-Wan took both of his little hands stained with tears and dirt from the hangar floor and turned his father's face gently so their eyes could meet.
"Is it really alright now Dad?"
It was only about the hundredth time the little one had asked the identical question. But the patient side of a father kicked in and Qui-Gon answered the question for the hundredth time that things would be fine.
He couldn't help but think maybe Obi-Wan asked now as they went into their home because of Myra, Jinn's very mother. She had been no more of a grandmother to Obi than Dooku had been a grandfather.
Qui-Gon wondered why they even wanted to be around children for neither one of them knew how a little one should be treated. Damien was another story. Jinn thought he might be able to salvage the boy if he was gotten away from his grandmother. Qui-Gon had almost decided what had to be done. Now all he had to do was break the news to his mother.
Qui-Gon thought he was certainly glad his mother didn't have a saber because once she found out his plans she might want to use it on him. However the master knew he would be doing the right thing for both boys; his son and his ward, Damien. He could only do what he felt was in the best interest for both boys' future and that is what he planned to do.
Myra was more than shocked, she seemed almost angry that Qui-Gon had brought the child back to the farm where Qui-Gon was suppose to be spending time with Damien. She knew of Obi's disappearance but she had not spent any time worrying about him.
Damien on the other hand did seem glad that Jinn had gotten his son back safe and sound but he also would have preferred his uncle to have come home by himself.
"Qui-Gon is everything alright? Master Riddon commed us and said you were coming home and he told us of Master Dooku's untimely death, but we have no way of knowing that you planned to bring Obi-Wan back here."
"Why be so surprised Mother. He is my son and this is equally his home as is it yours and Damien's."
Jinn went to sit the boy down, but Obi only clung tighter to his father. Jinn knew the boy could tell his grandmother was not pleased with his return home.
"Mother I hope you have some food prepared. Obi-Wan and I both need a bath and hot tea with a hot meal. I will be in my room. Damien could you go to Obi-Wan's room and get his extra pair of favorite pajamas; the ones with the little blue and yellow space ships on them."
"For *sith's* sake Qui, put the boy down. He has two good legs."
PLEASE MOTHER!! The *boy* as you call him has been through more than any little one should have to go through. He needs the comfort of my arms and he will get anything and everything he needs. Now if you will excuse me I want to go put the *boy* in a hot tub of water and get some of this dirt off of him."
Myra held her mouth closed almost forcibly . She had so many cruel and vindictive things to say but had to stop herself. She would have liked very much to have reminded Qui-Gon that the same blood that ran through Obi-Wan's mother and his grandfather also ran through Obi-Wan. She would have insinuated the same darkness the lurked in his mother and grandfather lurked in him. He wasn't worth her son's time and effort. Yes so much she wanted to say but feared what her son would do if she said them. She saw how much Qui-Gon had grown to love the little boy. No he would not give his son up now.
Master Jinn woke up before his son. He sat at the desk and filled out a report of the day's happenings. He already contacted Yoda and let him know Obi was as well as could be expected. He sat there and watched, just watched his son sleep thankful he had him back and safely.
He just barely nudged the child's mind to feel their shared bond a little more intensely. He watched Obi-Wan as a smile spread over his face and he snuggled his head into the fluffy pillows even more.
Qui-Gon walked out to get a cup of tea and found his mother sitting at the dining table, herself in thought about something.
"Well is the *boy* alright now?"
"I think he is mother. He is still asleep. He has a name mother, Obi-Wan if you care to use it sometimes."
"I think I know his name Qui. Well what now? You have too many pans in the fire Qui-Gon. You need to focus on one and let the rest go."
"I know what you mean mother. I am spread too thin right now. I have come to several decisions on what I want out of my life. I know with all the certainty I can what I want."
"I suppose you will be taking the boy back to your temple and leaving Damien and I here? I knew he would come between you and Damien. He has caused you to lie to your only brother on his death bed. You have no intentions of caring for Damien as if he were your won."
"No, you are wrong on several things Mother. No I am not Damien's father and I don't want to be. His father is dead but he existed. However I do very much want to see the boy thrive and do well in his life. I am also the *father* of Obi-Wan. Try to remember that mother as I tell you of my decision. Yes, I plan to train Obi-Wan but not at my little temple. Master Riddon is more than capable of running the temple and I plan to go to Coruscant."
Myra let out a long groaning sigh as if in actual pain.
"You plan to leave the planet." The words were not spoken, they were shouted. "You will never be home to see to Damien as he grows older. He needs you Qui-Gon."
"I know that mother and you are jumping to too many conclusions. I have gotten a friend of mine to pay up on a favor you might say. Damien will be going to the University of Coruscant, one of the best. Obi-Wan will be trained at the temple Coruscant. If I should go on missions before he reaches the age of apprenticeship and it is too dangerous for him then I will leave him in the care of Master Yoda or Master Windu."
"Yes, he was always too good in your eyes to be left with me wasn't he?"
"That was not it at all mother. You never had a kind word for the boy. I will always remember the handprint bruise you put on his little cheek. No mother I won't leave Obi-Wan with you, ever."
Myra ignored her son's remarks about her abusing his son.
"You said you are taking Damien and I to Coruscant, when should we be ready?"
"Again Mother you heard only what you wanted to hear. I said I would be taking Obi-Wan and Damien with me. There was never a mention of *where* you would go……"
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One more post!! Then it will be completed. Thank you all for reading and a special thanks to those of you do who take the time to post.
PEACE ewen