Author's Thanks: to Ladysherlock92, Luke and Anakin, & MusicDreamer!

- L92 - Thanks. That trend is my goal. :D

- L & A (is Falcona okay?) - Ah. Sorry. jots note that the chapter needs rewriting Thanks for that input.

- MD - Can't you say anything I can comment on w/out giving the story away? :D Thanks, though. & I will get to reviewing one of your stories one of these days...

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Author's Note:

Sorry for so long a wait. I thought I'd put this chapter up, already.

Requested reviewing rules:

- Do not blaspheme or curse.

- Do put smilies after jokes.

- Do critique.

Thanks!

Enjoy! :)

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Observation Is a Good Thing.

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"You know, the food is one thing I never miss when I'm on missions."

Obi-Wan smiled as an Initiate server apologetically slopped gruel on his plate. "Agreed."

Siri tossed her head to get her blonde bangs out of her eyes. "I mean, seriously. Everybody can negotiate treaties, rescue hostages, protect politicians, and they can't even make a good waffle."

A woman's slim iron fingers slipped on his shoulder. He glanced back to find Master Billaba holding Siri, as well. Her standard Jedi Master expression didn't waver. "Come." Releasing them, she swiftly glided out of the cafeteria.

Sharing a glance, they followed.

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"Depa."

"Mace."

The two Padawans blinked at the warmth in her tone. They entered the practice room.

They froze. Master Windu was hugging Master Billaba?

Jedi Master Mace Windu noted them. "What's this, Depa?"

She respectfully nodded her head. "I thought they might like a show of Vapaad."

The senior Council Member's mien grew suspicious. "Depa."

"Benefit," she replied in mock defense. "They're fine students."

"Halcyon isn't visiting, is he?"

"Nejaa?" was Master Billaba's innocent question. "I haven't seen him in years."

Siri and Obi-Wan looked at each other. They knew she'd been Master Windu's student, but something seemed off, here...

"And Queed's still mad at me for chopping up the place." After that final addition, Depa Billaba ignited her blade. "Now shall we spar? I fear I'm getting a little rusty."

Both Padawans took a step back. The smile she wore was not the gentle quiet Master Billaba they knew.

With a resigned glance, Master Windu Force-pulled his hilt from his belt and activated it.

Everyone froze. Instead of purple, a crimson blade came from the end.

Frowning, Mace Windu tested his lightsaber. He took a deep breath before calmly asking, "Depa, where did you get synthesized crystals? You haven't any Sith friends, have you?"

"Mace!" She stared at him.

He sighed. "Forgive me. I keep forgetting you're not a child..."

"Anymore."

"What?" He turned in midstep from the door.

"I'm not a child anymore , Mace."

He nodded. "Of course."

When he left, the Padawans turned to the remaining Master. "Why did he accuse you?" asked Obi-Wan.

Master Billaba smiled faintly. "I was young, once." She eyed her lightsaber, and her expression returned to its common blank one.

"Council records, top Masters..." Siri scowled. "Some Council Member's gotta be doing this!"

Obi-Wan blinked. "That explains it!" He turned to Master Billaba. Religious, she was the most attuned to the other Council members. "But who'd be likely to do this?"

Thoughtfulness tinged her visage. "Master Yoda has a good sense of humor."

"He does?"

"So, say it's Master Yoda," Siri carried forth immediately, ignoring his question. "Why would he take his own gimer stick?"

"Avoids suspicion. No one ever expects the prankster to be the one pranked upon."

"You're right!" Siri darted for the door. "I've gotta tell my Master!"

"I'll find Master Yaddle—she should be able to find out... She's his species!" He hesitated. "Unless, of course, she's helping... But then the culprits will know we're onto them!"

As the door shut behind Obi-Wan, he heard Master Billaba disinterestedly comment, "So they will."