Chapter 29: No More Excuses
"Why no one will help me? I'm too dumb, I'm too smart.
They'll not understand me. I'm lonely, they'll hate me.
There is not enough time, it takes too much to help me.
God wants me to work, no resting, no lazy.
These excuses have served me so well.
They've kept me safe, they've kept me stuck
They've kept me locked in my own cell." - Excuses (Alanis Morrisette - So-Called Chaos)
The morning was hectic. Preparations and finalizations were being made as so many people scurried all over. Everything moved in fast forward, everything except the one that all this chaos would effect most. Amidst the hustle, he was motionless. After his talk with Master Yoda the night before, he lost the last remaining fragments of himself. Internally he was dead, a corpse walking - pretending to live. Outwardly, it was just a physical shell in the visage of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
The world no longer seemed real to him, more like a dream that ran on continuously. He let those around him guide and direct him. He was given clothes to change into for the trial. A small plate of food was offered but all he did was move the contents around. When the guards came to take him away, he didn't struggle and calmly held up his hands to make it easier for them to bind him. Before he knew it, he was walking into a moderate room where people busied themselves before the trial began.
At a desk ahead, Guillaume sat waiting for him. He vaguely noticed the Jedi that sat in the audience or any of the various civilians including most of the crew from the Zenah. Griven's death stare didn't even faze him in the least. He sat where he was told to and let the world continue without him. Guillaume, for his part, tried to prepare the rogue for what was to come, but Obi didn't hear him.
"Now, Obi-Wan, I'm not going to lie to you, this is not going to be an easy battle. I just want you to know that I will use everything in my power to get you released to the Jedi. And if it comes down to it, I may have to resort to more drastic methods. I just want you to be prepared for it." He paused and looked around for a moment and noticed the people had become a bit more frantic. "The trial will begin in a few minutes. When the Arbitrator comes in, you need to stand. For now, you will just be here but probably by this afternoon you will be called to testify. Speak truthfully no matter how much Sauro tries to manipulate your words. Until then just try and stay calm. A hot head never has helped a case."
A second after he stopped speaking, a CSF Guard entered the court and called the session to order. "All rise for Arbitrator Osei-Tutu." A petite round figure came in, shorter than the average human but nowhere near as small as Yoda, with smooth light green skin and bright orange eyes. It had skin ridges instead of hair. And when it spoke, the harmonics of the voice did not allow those to discern if the being was male or female.
"Thank you, Official Naku. I now invite the barristers to make their opening remarks." Those in the room sat once more except for the prosecution.
Sano Sauro stepped from behind his desk to take center stage. He addressed the Arbitrator and the eight-manned panel that would serve as jury in this case. "As most of you know, the Republic is the mightiest power in the galaxy right now. It has offered peace and stability to many of the worlds under its charge as well as any one who has asked for our help. The Galactic Senate is the largest and strongest ruling body that the galaxy has ever seen. Peace has thrived now for hundreds of years and they are calling the question as to whether or not we need to keep a firm hand against those that may oppose us. I am a firm believer that the Republic must maintain discipline. We have gotten soft over the centuries, allowing the Jedi to assume a more authoritative role outside the boundaries of the Republic. And though this question will not be answered here, it is a factor that we should keep in the back of our minds as we discuss the case at hand."
Sano had been pacing around in front of the courtroom but had finally stopped a few feet in front of the table of the accused. His arm flew out and he pointed at Obi-Wan menacingly. "A case in which an EX-Jedi has willfully and wrongfully committed crimes against the citizens of our beloved Republic. Viciously he attacked and pillaged the defenseless and has even taken the lives of those who would not accept defeat. He has made use of the skills learned while a Jedi initiate in order to threaten and harm others. Where were the gentle teachings of the Jedi then? Deliberately he ignored them and caused pain, something a Jedi is taught to avoid." Slowly, the angry man turned to look at the whole audience.
"And if he did so knowingly, one has to wonder is it possible for other Jedi to forget their training and turn against us? We have allowed our grip on them to slip and this is a result of such actions. We need to remind the Jedi that we will not sit back and permit them to intimidate us with their special powers - powers that they can easily use against us at whim. Do not be swayed by pretty words and manipulated circumstances. That young man has committed murder and he should be punished for it no matter what his background. Do not let him get away without facing the consequences." Satisfied with his opening monologue, Sauro bowed slightly and walked back to his desk.
Next Gi stood and took his place in the center of the room to provide his insight. "I have been a barrister now for many years and have been part of hundreds of cases. Sometimes the circumstances that bring us here involve more than the case at hand. But I warn you, do not be deceived. The political battles that are waged beyond this room should not be fought inside it. Yes, we should not forget them as they do play a factor in what has lead us here, but only the facts should be considered. Please do not let Mister Sauro's personal battle against the Jedi Order affect your judgement. We are here to determine a young man's fate. And although he may have ties to the Jedi, the circumstances that brought him here are much more important.
"Obi-Wan Kenobi was dismissed from the Jedi shortly before his thirteenth birthday. While young and impressionable he was taken prisoner by the very pirates that attacked the vessel he was sent on. He was then abused without mercy, almost to the point of death. Now many of the people I know have a very difficult time dealing with pain, but he survived. So would it not be possible that a young mind can be beset with a skewed sense of judgement as a result? I think so. He knows he has done wrong. And that he could be severely punished for those wrongs. Yet despite this he has willingly turned himself in to face judgement for the errors he has committed. More importantly, keep in mind that when he has finished accepting your judgement his trial is not over. Because of his Jedi heritage he will go before their Council and submit to what they deem just as well. Regular citizens are not required to go through two trials and serve two sentences. Currently, he is a subject of the Republic, but I ask you to forgo your judgement and place him in the hands of the Jedi so that he can be dealt with by the appropriate people."
Guillaume thanked them and then sat back down next to Obi-Wan. From that moment on, the debate began. And as the minutes passed, Obi-Wan began to listen less and less to what was happening around him. Only vaguely would he pick up on the snippets of witnesses being called to testify and their answers to the questions asked.
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A witness from the Koska. "We were very frightened. A group of vicious beasts came rushing in and herded us into the common room. They demanded our valuables. We did our best to comply…………… I must say a number of us were surprised to see a human among them………………It all happened so suddenly. They were about to leave, thankfully, when the blasts were fired…….I think that one of the crew fired first, but it was so long ago I can't really remember."
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"I remember vividly." A crewman said heatedly. "Those bastards took everything and just before they left they killed Kiiv. I don't know if they did it just to make a point or because they were just showing their true nature. Either way, one of my friends is dead."
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"I seem to recall things a bit differently." A woman said. "I was standing all the way to one side, but I could see the Pirates clearly. I could also see some of the crew off to my left. One of them pulled a blaster out of nowhere. I heard someone scream as shots were fired. It happened too quickly for me to understand fully what happened but I do remember what happened next."
"And that would be what?" She was prompted.
"I remember it because it struck me odd. The young man just stood staring at the man he shot. Or at least I assumed he shot him because I had seen that kind of face before. It was the look of someone who had killed for the first time. His face was blank and pale and I knew then that he had not intended to kill the man. It took a couple of the pirates to finally drag him away. Afterward, the ship made it to a port and that was all. I'm used to terror and death but I'll never forget what happened then."
===
Obi-Wan had listened to this woman the most. Her voice seemed rather calm and introspective instead of hostile or unsure like a number of the others. Of all the witnesses thus far, her descriptions were the most accurate. Although, she may not have been correct about it being his first kill, (he shuddered at that dark memory) he was shocked that he had taken a life needlessly. He could regret but regrets never changed the past.
The morning continued to drag as witness after witness was brought up to relate the events in their own words. Soon, the incident on the Koska had been covered thoroughly by the countless testimonies. There was a very short recess before they started calling up people from the Zenah. During this break Qui-Gon came up to him, however Obi-Wan remained unresponsive even to his prompting.
"Obi-Wan, I know this is rough on you, but do not fear. Hopefully, this will all be over soon and we will go back to the Temple. Then you will see, everything will be alright." The Knight knelt next to the youth and waited for some sort of reaction. But there was none. Looking in dulled blue-green depths he could see the far off look. Instantly, he knew something had happened. He didn't know what it was but something had traumatized the boy. "Obi-Wan? What happened? What is wrong? Did someone talk to you, do anything to you while you were incarcerated?"
Qui-Gon waited once more needlessly. Worried crystal eyes flickered over to Guillaume, who had now focused his attention on the pair. They both sat wondering what could have caused this catatonic state the rogue was now in. But the time for contemplation was at an end as the Official called the session back in order. The first two called in, Tenten and Sordin, had very little to say as they didn't have much contact with what had happened except for the raid. But with each person the story slowly began to build.
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Pev-da began, "After the crash we all scrambled to try and find out how much damage there was and if we would be able to get back. I've been around long enough to know it was hopeless. Still we tried to do a miracle……..While we were outside doing repairs, one of the kids ran out. The Captain and the Jedi hurried back in. The next thing we knew we were captured by the Pirates. They followed us down in order to get the boy back………..Yes, they threatened to kill us."
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"Of course I was scared!" the young Duros, Reillo Quarg, related. "I've only recently joined the crew because of my Uncle. I knew he would be worried about me once they found out we were gone, but the thought of dying was still horrifying……When we got to the exchange, the human pirate bargained for our release. He wouldn't even leave until everyone was back safe. I was a bit shocked by that but I didn't mind much as long as everyone was safe."
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"It was strange really. I was beyond scared, Mister Nev did his best to keep us calm. And he volunteered to stay behind. I don't know if I could have done it……….Well, that's what was strange. When we got back to the Zenah, he refused to go back until everyone was returned. I didn't understand why a pirate would care about the people he attacked. I know now it was probably his Jedi training." His thoughts went introspective for a moment and he mumbled, "Maybe that's what that was…."
"What?" He prompted the young Andon Hobbsbreath.
"Well, after the Togorians went back to get Pev-da and Mister Nev, Master Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan removed our binders. But after he removed mine, his hands stayed on my wrists. It was incredible. A warmth filled them but it wasn't hot but soothing. And the discomfort went away. It's kinda funny actually. I've always had wrist problems but since he did what he did, I've been pain free. I guess it was one of those Jedi Healing things I've heard about."
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Wuan Jeswick answered, "I was the one to discover that my nephew and the others were missing. Nev contacted me about something he found and had me check into it. He was right and I wanted to talk to him, but I couldn't reach him. That's when I knew something was wrong……….He found a device. We don't know who put it there still. But it's really puzzled us all…."
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"Well, the technology that was used for the device is beyond the norm. It was actually rather hard to decipher. But we were able to determine it was not a friendly mechanism. It was placed there to kill us…….The real mystery here is that apparently the device is from the same technology as the Pirate's."
Sano had been pondering this information for a while. Now he decided to prod the man, "So it is possible that the pirate's planted the device?"
Nev Obser shook his head in denial. "I don't think so. They seemed equally surprised to see it."
"Could it not have been an act?" Sauro was standing right in front of Nev now. "Didn't you say that when you were brought back, Kenobi was rummaging through the damage and seemed to stumble conveniently upon the device you found?"
"Well, yes. But…"
"So it could be assumed that he had the foreknowledge of its whereabouts?"
"Objection!" Gi abruptly stood to address the Arbitrator. "This line of questioning is irrelevant for the trial at hand. Obi-Wan is being charged with theft, aggravated assault and aggravated manslaughter, not some speculative sabotage."
A calm harmonic voice replied, "Sustained, Mister Sauro, please get back to the matter."
Taking a moment, Sano tried to find a better way to get more information without straying too far from the topic. "Have you learned anything else about the device?"
"No, it's still hard to fully decipher. I had hoped that somehow we could arrange for Obi-Wan to assist with the investigation. Since he's the most familiar with the technology I thought he would be valuable."
===
Now that the device matter had been settled, the events that occurred inside the Zenah after the crash were brought to light. The witnesses were now a mix of crew and Jedi.
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"I have only heard about Obi-Wan through my Padawan and Master Jinn. From what they always said, he was a gentle loving child. The fact that he had become so cynical is a testament to the horrors he faced……He tried to hide his identity at first, but I think it was because he didn't know how we would react to him……Yes, when they first boarded, he did injure my arm. But I know it was a matter of necessity. If not for my own protection but for his Togorian family……I didn't see the incident in the rec room, and I'm glad. But I know it has disturbed many others."
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"He was my best friend. He was the light in our lives. To know he has suffered so much breaks my heart. But I am glad to have him back again……….I followed him to the rec room and found him…found him punching the post. It was a horrible sight…..When he calmed down, we talked for a little bit when those monsters came in. They took him and beat him without so much provocation. They even threatened me. I have never felt so sick in my life. If I never seen anything like it again, it'll still be too soon."
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"I followed Bant. I knew that Obi-Wan needed her and wanted to make sure that she was there for him. He was hurting himself and crying. I don't really know why, but it was very sad. Then those men came. I could feel their hate. It scared me……..I didn't know what else to do. I went to find Master Qui-Gon. I figured he could stop them. And he did. And now we're all back here safe." Tola's violet eyes began to blur. "Obi-Wan's going to be ok, isn't he? You'll let him go, right? He's nice and I don't think he should be locked away after saving us."
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Ain Chuss and Tenadden Maad stepped up to tell their tales, but it was the announcement of the next witness that actually caused Obi-Wan to flinch. As the man walked past, he could feel the dark glare press onto him. Still he never lifted his eyes to look at the man directly. And as Mortius Griven took his seat, Obi-Wan closed his eyes and tried to slip further into oblivion and lost.
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"Piloting has been part of our family for generations. It's been said that we were born to fly. So when I became a pilot it was nothing special…..Kiiv was my younger brother. He got the job on the Koska about three years before his murder…..I loved him very much. I have always been there to protect him and care for him. Growing up we had to stick together considering our father was away most of the time. I was even his best man at his wedding……. They were married for five years and had two sons…… I forbade them to come here. They have already been traumatized enough. I've been trying to provide for them as best I could, but they are still hurting from Kiiv's loss. I felt it best I take care of this murderer."
"Is that why you attacked him?"
"Alright, so I made a mistake trying to take him out instead of bringing him in, but you have to understand. I was just released from the infirmary and suddenly I see him running through the halls. I didn't know at first that he was with the Jedi. I was worried about him killing someone else. So I got Ain and Maad and we went after him."
"Why did you attack after you saw the Padawan there? And it appeared as if she was not in danger?"
"I couldn't help myself. I saw my brother's killer standing in front of me and everything was red with rage. I felt if I did nothing I would never find peace. And - and - and….." He looked down at the tightening fist in his lap. "Hitting him - hurting him felt so - so good." As the man continued to stare at his hand, he looked so confused by the conflict of emotions within him. But a soft sob from the audience drew him out of his reverie. He noticed the two alien girls huddled together. For an instant he felt bad for having beat the pirate in front of them. Suddenly, his gaze moved to the felon in question and went back to the hard glare as before. Something in him snapped and he barked, "He's a murderer and a monster. He doesn't deserve any type of freedom. He deserves death. I'm glad I got the chance to show him what pain he's caused others. He needs to know that his actions have destroyed people's lives!" And as much as the anger and hate filled his voice at that moment, Griven would soon realize that Obi-Wan understood pain more than he could ever know.
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"I became involved after the rec room. Qui-Gon came in carrying the boy. I was shocked to see him but Healer's reflex kicked in and I immediately went to work. I couldn't believe all the damage. He was a mess…….At the time it was a bad blaster wound to the midsection, various bruises and abrasions, a number of fractures and breaks and blood loss. I was able to treat some of it but really didn't have all the equipment I needed. Actually some of the equipment I could have used was damaged in the crash. But it's not like he stayed long enough for me to really treat him……The Togorians contacted Fen while we were all in the infirmary. So the trade was to happen soon. But then everything changed…………..
"When we reached Onderon, Obi-Wan was supposed to remain in our custody but Griven messed that up. The OSF came and claimed the boy. That's when they put the collar on. That was the most disturbing thing I have ever seen. I know even I can't wait for that thing to be taken off. I can't believe that the Republic Security Force could be so cruel…..Yes, cruel. He turned himself in. He was a Jedi for heaven's sake. He should have been treated with more compassion than that for that fact alone. But on top of everything else, he was in no condition to put up a fight, and I should know……..Like I said before, I didn't have the time or equipment at the time but after they put the collar on it became obvious that his condition was more serious than believed. He had been bleeding internally for a while. It finally caught up to him on the way back to Coruscant and that's when he was taken to the Center. Thank the gods for Bacta."
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"We were very surprised to discover he was alive." The impassive visage of the Councilwoman sat. "And even more so when we realized he was willingly assisting the Pirates……..But it was his piloting abilities that landed the Zenah safely. And his influence on the Pirates that allowed us to gain passage back to Onderon. If not for him, we would still be on that planet……..It is true, once he has finished with this trial here, he will be brought before the Council and we will decide his ultimate fate. What he has done with his training is a grievous crime against the Order. He must face his punishment……..On extreme cases yes, the Jedi have had to destroy the offender. But like I said that is on very extreme cases." Adi Gallia spoke plainly. She felt no need to hide the truth and her Jedi training kept her voice emotionless and dry.
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Fen Lessik said, "I don't know why he was still on board and at the time I didn't care. But if not for that boy, we would probably be dead. After Griven was knocked out, I couldn't handle flying the ship by myself. I hadn't done it in a while so I was rusty. But then Obi-Wan and the Jedi showed up. And he took over, thankfully…….I don't care what the circumstances were exactly, like I said. He got my crew back safe and sound. And after everything we've all been through I can see why the Togorians wanted him back so badly. I think I would have gone through extreme measures myself if I were in their place. But none of that matters any more. He kept us alive and got us to Onderon and he risked himself over and over again to do it. I'm not saying he should be absolved of Kiiv's death entirely, but I think he has done plenty to make up for most of his mistakes. And you should keep that in mind."
===
At last it had come down to one more key witness. Obi-Wan's heart pounded against his chest. He had been living in a haze since this whole trial began only once in a while surfacing to comprehend what was happening. The last few he had been half listening to but as the man rose behind him, he couldn't help but become alert.
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"Yes, I knew him as an initiate but only briefly. In a way, he was meant to be my Apprentice. But due to personal reasons, I dismissed him and he was sent away…….Like I said, they were personal reasons and had nothing to do with Obi-Wan specifically. I have regretted my decision ever since that day. And when he was pronounced dead, it shattered my world, as well as many others. Knowing now that he suffered while we pitied ourselves puts a foul taste in my mouth. I can only hope we get the chance to make it up to him……..Obi-Wan and I spoke about the incident on the Koska and I am convinced that Kiiv Griven's death was an accident. He was a Jedi after all and his desire to preserve life is still strong in him……I must agree with Master Tahl in that respect. Jedi are trained from a very young age to fight. So the fact he knew it was a Jedi Master at the end of the hall probably drove him to end the conflict quickly without death. Her injury was minor and only meant to distract her……..
"He went through so much. The attack in the rec room was completely unprovoked and uncalled for. And Obi-Wan's actions were commendable considering what happened. He never once sought revenge and even provided us a way to get back to civilization. He has bargained himself and is now here facing his trial for the crimes he has committed. But I beg you to consider your decisions carefully. He was once a Jedi and he should face a Jedi punishment. In the past, Jedi have always been allowed to handle their own people. I know that once he was dismissed it could be believed that he was no longer a Jedi but that is not true. Obi-Wan will always be a Jedi. Let him face the Council and their decision."
===
Qui-Gon's time on the stand was briefer than he thought and in a way Obi-Wan wished it was longer, if only to postpone what was to come. Once the Jedi stepped down, the court called for a break. It was time for a late mid-day meal. Obi-Wan was led back to a holding cell and given food (which he didn't eat.) A few of the Koska witnesses went back home now that they had finished their testimonies. But many were interested to learn the outcome, so they ate quickly to get back in time for the rest of the trial. Those that were close to the accused had stuck together in an attempt to offer support. However, one look at their solemn faces revealed how worried they all were.
Court reconvened about a standard hour later. Official Naku announced the Arbitrator's arrival. Settled back into the routine, Sauro Sano stood. "I think we have heard enough from everyone. It's time we get to the heart of this trial. I call Obi-Wan Kenobi to the stand."
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Well, there you go, the trial has begun!! I hope you all enjoyed it. It was most interesting to write. Now next chap, I'm sure many of you are anxious for that. I know I would be. ;) Anyway, just a forewarning, there will be a rather 'intense' part in the next section. It will not be graphic but the innuendos may be disturbing. Just though I would let you know before posting the next chap. (and if all goes well, that should be next fri! ;) ) As always thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D :D And don't forget to click that REVIEW button down there. I would greatly appreciate it. ;)
Kynstar - :8} Gosh thanks!! :D I'm so very happy I can still give you a good does of Obi-Angst. As for the whole Yoda/Obi scene, I know. But Yoda can sometimes be too meddlesome for my taste. And I think too many writer's put him up on this post as infallible. I think he can make mistakes too and that's what I wanted to show. At this point Yoda really just needed to confess. Well just have to wait and see if he can convince Obi to come back now that the truth is known. Thanks for reviewing at both places too!!! :D That makes me sooooooooo very happy!! [facelove]
LOTRFaith – Yes, I'm glad the muse decided to work for me there too. WE were actually going good for a bit and then she slammed the gate shut again. I've been camped out hoping that she'll open up again soon, but I'm not holding my breath. ;) Anyway, I know how you feel. And sometimes it doesn't get any easier as you grow up. When I was in High School, I said I'm gonna be an actress. Then I met my hubby my junior year. Next thing I knew I dropped musical theatre all together and picked up Art. I love art just don't have a real talent for it. Sadly, I love writing but just don't have the gumshoe to pursue it. I don't want the responsibility of deadlines. My big problem is that I have nothing that I'm really great at. Don't get me wrong, I'm good at a lot of things but nothing that really says, 'You're awesome at this!!' So there are hundreds of times where I sit and think, 'What am I doing with my life? Is this what I want? No, but I have no direction to take.' So I've been sitting at the same cross roads for the past 7 years. I wish you infinitely more luck in finding direction. I think Obi's stuck in the same rut at the moment. We'll see if he can find a way out though. ;) Thanks again for reading!! :D :D
Fudge – Awwwww, Thanks!!! :8D "Queen of Angst" You should save that title for next chap. ;) hehe. Yoda's interference really screwed everything up. And now that Obi's back, all those repressed emotions are troubling the little fart. Which is good, because he should be troubled. Anyway, I think we'll just need to give him a bit more time. Unlike Qui, he has so many other obligations and things to consider that he's trying to find the right way to set everything back on the right path. It just may take him a bit longer to figure it out. ;) Thanks again!! :D
Death Rider – Wow haven't seen you recently. So glad you stopped by!! :D All I can say about your theory is that you're close, but not there yet. :p LOL, I don't know if I would say Yoda was doing the dark's bidding, wittingly or unwittingly, but his interference really did foul things up pretty good. We'll just have to see how it all plays out. Mwahahahahaha! ]:)
YLJedi – Well, I'm very glad to hear you liked Obi's reaction. I have seen a few of those too and said, how could he just take it?? But then I realize I almost did that here. :8} On tf.n I actually posted my original draft for that scene that I wrote way back in the beginning of 2003, as I'm sure you can guess the course of the story has changed so much since then, I felt it just wouldn't work here anymore. Sooo, to make a long story short, I re-wrote it and LOVE the change. :D Yes, Obi-Angst is the sweet nectar of life. Well, actually any cute and horribly distraught man that suffers bth mental and physical torture is the sweet nectar of life, but Obi's is some of the best. ;) Thanks!!
Amazed – That's ok. You didn't have to be Japanese, I was just looking to practice with someone, but that's cool too. ;) My friend recently leant me a whole bunch of Anime and now 'I'm deeply, hopelessly in Love' with them. (Ok, horribly bad Padme mock right there, but I couldn't help it. goes off to gag myself) I'm not really into Yu-Gi or Yu Yu or any of the other more kiddie shows. I like a number of the others that they don't show on Cartoon Network right now. I even have ventured into the Anime Fandom now. sigh And I'm thinking of using a new penname, Arldetta-san, ;) for when I really get into posting my fics for them and some of my other more risqué things. So we'll see how that goes. As far as the JA books, Yoda didn't meddle like this (at least as far as we know because it was never discussed.) but I thought that he must have. I can't see no one wanting Obi. That's just blasphemous. I wish I could have had this chap up last week, but bad internet connections and going away for the weekend have kept me away. Hopefully, next week I'll be able to post again. ;) Thanks as always!! You rock! :D
Snow-Glory – Well, thank you for taking the time to read and review!! Better late than never, eh? And I hear you, sometimes a break from a genre is a good thing. I know I did for a while, even if I was still writing SW. I'm glad you likey. And that will be some read when I do finish. Right now on Word with this chap, my fic will be 183 pages. And we're not at the end yet! And yes, he is being torn apart piece by piece, but hey, would we want it any other way. ;P We'll just have to wait and see if it all turns out for Obi. But that may be a while coming yet. Thanks again!!! :D
Delphine Pryde – This chap was hopefully better, but Next is back to the Angst. The sequel to this should be less angsty and a bit more dramatic and I'm not talking over the top but more serious and working through things. At least if I ever make it to the sequel. sigh dang muse. Thanks again!! :D
A 29467 – Well, I'm happy you found it again. This little fic has definitely taken off. I love toying with emotions. It's my favourite past time. ]:) Thank you very much!! I hope you come back for more. ;) :D
Shan – Oh my friend. Life's just gotten too crazy anymore. I didn't get that second job, and we can chat about that later if you want. But even still, my mind's been all over the place and it's been really hard to focus. So we'll see what happens. I would love to have you beta still, but I am much more in need of Shades. :p So please post soon! That said, thanks. I do so enjoy playing with emotions. They are so irrational and turbulent and just wonderful to watch. Angst Queen, thanks. It is my life. ]:D And giving Obi a break would just cramp my style. :p hehe. Well, at least not in this fic anyway. Hopefully the sequel won't be nearly this traumatic. Hope to see you again real soon. :D Thanks for everything chicky!!!!! :D
And that's all folks. THANKS again everyone for reading!! I love you guys. And one last plea for reviews. a-hem Please review!!!!! Thank you! ttfn. ;D