My thanks to everyone who has been reading or lurking. As of last night, NC reached the 50,000 hit mark. I am still amazed that so many of you are out there enjoying this little work of mine. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Now on to bigger and better things. I hope you all are ready for a rollarcoaster ride. Things are about to get a hopping. Hope you all enjoy!
Cantbel: Thanks so much. I think Dooku besides using his new powers is relying also on his years of Jedi training. Even something good in the hands of evil could be twisted to its master's wishes. I definitely try to stay abreast of all the EU, but that is almost a full time job in of itself. Many of my plot lines have EU inspirations, but as you have seen and will see, I will take them in entirely new directions. Or at least that's the plan. Thanks for reading!
Nini the Electrocuted Sheep: Thanks so much. Glad you liked that line.
Emerald Green Queen: You're most certainly welcome. Sorry about being vague, but I definitely don't want to spoil any surprises. And yes the election does seem likes a sure thing, but I can never make things that clear cut ;). Hopefully Obi-Wan and Sabe will get their acts together. Then again it is fun reading about them floudering around too ;). No, I didn't forget about our old friend Nute. He's just been dealing with his legal issues for the past couple of years, as well as helping a certain Sith behind the scenes. Glad to know you liked the dialogue between Obi-Wan and Anakin. From this point on, their discussions will be intensifying. Thanks so much for reading!
Jedi Knight Anakin Solo: Thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying!
NothingFeelsGood: Lots of things happening to our heroes. How it will all end...keep reading ;). Thanks a bunch!
Ghostreaper181: Heh. Can't say I'm much for Obidala either; just feels wrong. As for Siri, things will be getting interesting for her soon enough. And in reference to Obi-Wan's observation of Anakin's crush, I think he feels that it is more infatuation that true love given how hormonal a thirteen year old is. Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoy this chapter!
Fortune Zyne: Thanks! She's still part of the goodie's.
LetNys: Thanks so much. Glad you like the Obi-Wan & Sabe relationship.
Quillian: I really appreciate that. I agree, Dooku is very much an enigma prior to AotC. I probably won't feature him too much for the remainder of this story, but he will have a prominent role in the sequel. Thanks so much for reading!
Pokey: Well, Obi-Wan still has much to learn. Remember, he too is sort of new in the 'romantic' arena. Perhaps in time he will better recognize true love from infatuation. Thanks for reading!
Mizra: I truly appreciate that. Makes an author and his muse very happy. As I mentioned previously, I like to take certain events from EU and mold them in my image. However, I think in the real stories that Siri stays for a number of years before finally brining him down because she goes on to die during the Clone Wars. Thanks for reading! Glad you are enjoying!
P.S. I started up a new forum so if you all are interested in discussing mine or other interesting stories it is available. Now, onto the story!
Watching her own transformation was always something that fascinated her. Going from Padmé Naberrie, the daughter of farmers to Amidala, Queen of the Naboo and sovereign of the Chommell Sector should have required some kind of magic. At times, she felt that the white painted face that stared back from the mirror was somebody else. But Padmé and Amidala were one in the same, both wanting the best for her people. A slow, labored breath escaped Padmé's body as Rabé carefully mounted the elaborate crown atop her head. It was heavy, much like the burden of her office.
Amidala carefully stood up with both Rabé and Yané helping her. She found herself almost amused at the thought of allowing hours of work to topple over with one wrong move. Gazing once again at herself, she was amazed at how the bright red garments of her most formal robes hid her slight frame. She smirked as she mused how they more than adequately obscured her, the frightened seventeen year old who was about to lead them into an uncertain future.
"Are you ready, Your Majesty?"
Padmé knew that the point to change her mind had long passed. It was time to act as she had during the liberation, when her people were in dire need.
But aren't they still?
Doubt was a stranger to her who was once branded with the title of child prodigy. From that moment on, her life was never simple. Padmé Naberrie would watch her friends playing out in the fields or swimming in the nearby streams without a care in the world while she struggled with her lessons. Although touted as an idealist, Padmé felt often times too jaded for her age. She knew much more than she should or would prefer; but as Queen, this knowledge was crucial.
The truth shall be your salvation.
Padmé offered a short smile to the anxiously waiting High Protector who was dressed in his formal black robes. It took her entire self control not to grin, as she knew that he wore them only to impress her. True, the gravity of the day's event did warrant such an outfit, but somehow Anakin knew that she liked how he looked in them. He was to be her escort as they traveled from Theed Palace down the Path of the Ancestors to Parliament where she would share with the rest of Naboo her decision.
Anakin.
The little slave boy from Tatooine was growing up fast—too fast for her comfort. Sometimes Padmé wished that she could stop time and keep him a child forever. Then she could protect him from the horrors and tribulations of adulthood. Her friend who had always been a great source of support would not remain a boy for much longer. Increasingly, instead of looking upon her with the endearing childlike wonder, his gaze was being replaced by that of a young man and with all that change entailed.
But he's the only one who has ever truly understood the real me. Not Amidala, but Padmé.
A soft sigh escaped her lips, which caught Anakin's attention. "Something troubles you, my Queen."
It was a statement.
Dispassionately she looked over at him. "I am just reciting my speech over again in my head."
Anakin just bobbed his head, but grinned a little as they continued to walk. With his abilities, surely he knew that she was considering everything else but that. Even so, he respected her too much to openly challenge the truth of her statement. If only she could share with him how she truly felt. For the first time since she took office, Amidala of the Naboo was afraid. Her years of education and experience in the political arena had not prepared her for this. But a smile suddenly creased her face as she remembered something Winama used to say.
Life is as about as static as the oceans.
The Parliamentary building was a large, rectangular structure that boasted numerous smooth columns at its perimeter. Similar to the Royal Palace, it had a large staircase at its front. A long, narrow corridor stretched from the entrance into the Chamber of Representatives, which was separated by two giant doors made of brass. The surrounding walls were filled with murals representing the beginning of democracy on Naboo with scenes of battles and legendary heroes leading their people into a new future.
One day you will be amongst them…
Sabé and Saché stepped aside as a short man whose violet colored tunics revealed his office as the Parliament's Master at Arms approached. He bowed respectfully as he approached the Queen and her entourage. "Your Majesty, it is an honor to receive you."
"Thank you kind sir. Is everyone ready?"
He nodded. "We are, Your Majesty. With your permission, I shall announce your arrival."
Amidala gave him a curt nod before he departed. The Master at Arms then gave a confirmatory glance to two members of the Parliament's security team. A brief moment later, the twin doors opened revealing the crowed chamber. "Honorable representatives of Naboo, please stand in respect for Her Highness, Amidala, Queen of the Naboo."
A large echo of applause erupted as all in attendance stood. Anakin withdrew his arm from Padmé's and gave her a half-bow as he backed away. Taking a deep breath, Amidala walked forward, flanked on both sides by her handmaidens. She allowed a soft smile to fill her face while she made her way to the podium. The standing ovation grew when she reached the front and was greeted by the Chief Parliamentarian. Bowing her head in thanks, Amidala withdrew her datapad and placed it on the stand. Moments after, the crowd quieted, taking their seats to listen.
The lights of various holocams came to life as they danced about the hall to lock in the best position. The time had finally arrived.
'Honorable Representatives of Parliament and Citizens of Naboo,
For over a thousand years, we have been blessed with a peace that was built upon sacrifices from the past. Our ancestors fought and died because they believed that their struggles could bring about a better world for them and their families. But to maintain such a peace is a tenuous thing. One wrong decision or an ill- advised discourse could destroy everything that we hold precious. The recent occupation has brought to light the ease of complacency that a long standing peace can bring and once again we stand at the point where sacrifices must be made.
With the aid of the members of Parliament, Senator Mar, and also the Regent of Chommell Minor, we have constructed the framework of the Naboo Defense Act which will create a permanent standing military that will not only defend our planet, but in time, the entire sector. The road ahead will be a challenging one as it leads us into unknown territory. However, we have stood together as one people when the droid ships of the Trade Federation tried to strip away our freedom. In the same way we shall stand together once again to bring our world into a new era. '
A roar of applause erupted, causing the Queen to pause until it tapered off.
'From this day henceforth, all citizens of Naboo between the ages of fourteen through thirty standard years will be required to serve in the military for a minimum of two years. I have been authorized to extend contracts to reputable off world military commanders who will serve as advisors to assist the construction of our army. For the meantime, Boss Nass of the Gungan people has promised his support by sharing experienced commanders and equipment during this transition period. It is our hope that within four standard years, we will augment our starfighter fleet with a naval starfleet that can better protect our interstellar borders.
While we still hold on to our fundamental beliefs, we have to acknowledge that maintaining our peaceful ways comes at a price. For far too long, we have relied on the Republic and the Jedi to help us in times of need. Unfortunately, we cannot depend on foreign entities to care about our way of life as we do. I know these changes are difficult to accept, but I firmly contend that by showing resolve to those that wish to do us harm, it will cause them to reconsider threatening our sovereignty.
Thank you for your attention, and may the spirits guide us and protect us in all our future endeavors.'
The response to the Queen's speech was unilateral; all in attendance supported the measure. While many in Parliament had been under pressure from their constituency to support such a measure, others favored it due to personal loss at the hands of the Trade Federation. When Amidala stood back, the cheers grew louder as the entire audience stood to show its support.
Padmé sighed inwardly. She didn't know how to feel. Politically it was the right move and would further strengthen her bid for re-election. It also was a sign of her willingness to do what was necessary to protect her people. On the other hand, she had just abolished a millennium of pacifist tradition, which would be difficult for many to accept. Also, this act would escalate the tension that already existed between the Naboo and the member worlds of the Trade Federation. It could be interpreted as a hostile act.
Good or bad, it was done. All Padmé could do is wait for the inevitable backlash to strike then she could act accordingly. Then again, nobody ever suggested that being Queen would be easy.
In a run-down tavern on the southern continent, a lean young man slammed his drink on the bar. Janthar Moll clenched his jaw as he and the other patrons watched the holonet feed of the Queen's speech. For centuries his family had been amongst the most noble of Naboo. They had played a pivotal role in the demise of the heredity monarchy, which brought democracy to their war ravaged world. And now all that they had fought and died for was about to be destroyed.
Turning to an inebriated man who was hunched over the bar, he shouted, "Can you believe what that child is doing? She's going to bring about our end!"
The bartender, who had been serving drinks on the other side of the room, abruptly walked over. "I'd keep my voice down if I were you."
"Why should I be quiet?" Janthar asked irate. "That blasted girl is a warmonger!"
"I think you've had enough. Get out before I call the authorities."
Janthar stumbled onto his feet. "Mark my words," he announced to all in the room, "the occupation was only a taste of what is to come. Unless somebody does something, we are all doomed." He then lobbed his empty glass towards the scowling bartender as he left, not noticing the hooded figure that had been watching him from the opposite corner. In his rolling anger Janthar nearly threw a punch when he placed his mechanical hand on his shoulder.
"Do I know you?" He growled.
The hooded figure ignored his query. "I couldn't help overhearing your thoughts in the tavern."
"Are you with the local magistrate? Are you here to arrest me?"
"No," the man answered. "Although I am very interested in listening to your suggestions as to what should be done about the Queen's actions."
Janthar stared suspiciously at him, uncertain if he was being lured into a trap. After having downed several shots of Corellian whisky earlier, at this point, he frankly didn't care. "I think she should be persuaded to change her mind."
"And how would you do that?"
"I don't know," Janthar shouted in frustration. "Anyhow, what's done is done and there's nothing I can do about it. It's not like I could hold her up with a blaster."
The hooded man grinned. "Why not?"
Janthar took a step back. "What are you getting at?"
"The history of the galaxy is strewn with tales of leaders brought down by the people in order to invoke change. Assassination is not immoral if the one who dies is unjust."
"Get away from me!" He screamed. "Talk like that is treasonous."
"I know you are a man of honor, Janthar Moll. I know that you would fight and die for the values that your ancestors brought to our people. That is why I sought you out."
"How do you know me?" At that same moment, the man drew back his hood, revealing his identity. Janthar immediately fell to his knees. "My King…Forgive me, but I believed you to be dead."
"I'm afraid you are correct," he said with a wry grin. "King Veruna perished in the fire that swept through his exile castle. However, Renaltus Diehlo is still quite alive."
"I don't understand.'
Renaltus flexed his artificial hand momentarily before placing it on Janthar's shoulder. "Come with me and I will share the details of my rebirth."
An uneasy smile filled Moll's face as he followed him towards an uncertain destination.
Dragging herself wearily into the cabin, General Ilianya Tro forwent her normal of routine of changing out of her drab uniform into comfortable tunics before meditating, This day had been extraordinarily excruciating. The fathers of the Chiss Empire had enlisted her services several years prior in order to help them build a stronger army to compliment their vast navy. Now they were in the process of running simulated war games throughout the entire Unknown Regions to determine whether her tutelage of the inexperienced generals had proved successful
With a loud sigh, Ilianya pulled out the tie that held her curly red hair up in the tight, uncomfortable style she was required to wear while on duty. As she passed by her only mirror, she paused momentarily to stare at her reflection. After these many years, she still could not reconcile the fact that time and death were meaningless to her. The young face that looked back at her belonged to somebody who should have died eons prior, but through a twist of fate she had cheated it
.Shaking herself out of her contemplations, she threw her jacket on top of the piles of datapads that awaited her review. The things she had to do to earn a credit. Such was her lot she mused as she sat down in the middle of her large stateroom. Closing her eyes, she released her consciousness as she entered her meditative state. Drifting away from reality, Ilianya attempted to calm herself in the stillness of her mind when the darkness was shattered by a blinding light.
Ilianya nearly jumped out of her skin when she realized that she was no longer on the warship, but rather in a large, flowering field that seemed to stretch out to forever. In the distance, the figure of a woman, from which light itself seemed to originate, approached slowly. She had golden flowing hair and eyes blue as the sea. She was everything and nothing at the same time, for Ilianya knew her to be the Force itself. She grimaced, reluctantly falling to her knees. When the woman finally reached her, Ilianya reverently bowed her head.
"My Lady."
The Force grinned as she tilted her head forward in acknowledgement. "Master Tro…It has been a long time."
Raising her head, Ilianya griped, "You know I don't have much use for that name. Besides, it's been years since I was called that."
"Millennia to be more accurate," the woman of Light retorted. "Then what should I call you? Solstice…Darth Vengence…Or how about the Exile? You seemed to relish that title during your wanderlust years," she mocked.
"Enough!" Ilianya shouted. "What do you want?"
The Force smiled as she looked upon her. "I have come to offer you a proposition."
"Speak," she requested, curious what the mysterious being had in mind.
"Your debt to me will be fulfilled when you complete what I ask."
Ilianya's heart jumped as she allowed herself to believe this was possible. "Does this mean you will return my mortality?"
The Force curtly nodded. "The past will be forgotten and all shall be forgiven."
"What must I do?"
She gave her a slight smile before walking around her. "What do you know of a planet called Naboo?"
Ilianya looked up at her in confusion. "It's in the Chommell Sector. They recently freed themselves from the armies of the Trade Federation. What of it?"
"You can't tell me that you haven't sensed the great disturbance that is emanating from there?"
"I try not to connect to you if I can possibly avoid it," she confessed.
The Force chuckled merrily. "Ah! Therein lays the challenge of my request, Exile. You see, there is something… or rather someone…who's very special on that planet and he will be in need of your profound wisdom."
Ilianya cocked her head to one side as she stared at the woman. "Why would the Chosen One need my help? Young Kenobi has been a more than adequate teacher."
"You know much more than I would have guessed," the Force teased.
"With the growing imbalance and two Sith Lords running about, I believe it to be prudent to be aware of what is to come," Ilianya retorted. She paused momentarily to observe the Force. "Besides, years of fighting the Sith taught me to never turn my back on them."
The illuminated woman smirked. "Indeed."
They stared at one another silently until Ilianya asked, "Do you wish for me to train him to better hear your voice?"
"Not at the moment," she answered. "The Naboo have announced their intentions to build an army. I want you there to aid them and to help mold Anakin into the formidable warrior he will need to become. After all, you have eons of experience and he has much to learn before he is ready."
Ilianya frowned as she realized what the Force was suggesting. "That could take decades. I have waited over a century since I completed my last undertaking for you. I thought that was going to be enough."
"A few more years won't make that much of a difference," the Light retorted.
"And what of the Sith?" She worriedly asked.
"What of them?"
"Once I return to the known regions, they will be able to sense my presence," Ilianya pointed out. "They and the Jedi, I suspect."
The Force focused upon her with an earnest look. "The Sith are too busy with their plots and schemes to notice you, at least for the moment. They already know the location of the Chosen One. They have decided to be patient."
"That's an unusual play from them," Ilianya observed. "Every Sith I've ever…encountered was never much for subtlety."
"This Dark Lord is exceptionally cunning and has learned what he needs to know in order to destroy both the Jedi and the galaxy." The Force paused and looked at her solemnly. "And as for the Jedi, most believe you to be a myth and I'm sure Master Yoda will discreetly distract the Council if they should happen to sense your return to the living, so to speak."
"After all, I am the wound that they tried to slice away," Ilianya responded bitterly.
"That was in the past, my child. The Jedi of this era are innocent of that crime."
"Still, they are just as short sighted as they march steadily into their own demise."
"Perhaps that is true," the Force admitted. "But is not your place to warn them or to become involved in their affairs. Your central concern is young Anakin. I also want you to keep close watch over the Naboo Queen. No harm must befall her."
Curiously, Ilianya asked, "What's so important about a politician?"
A grim appearance eclipsed the face of the Force. "Her continued safety is my wish and that is all you need to know."
"Why so much concern? I thought the Chosen One was supposed to be the most powerful adept to ever exist?"
The woman wryly smiled. "He's a little more than that."
"What is that supposed to mean?" she asked, shaking her head in confusion.
"It is of no consequence," the Force responded with a wave of her hand. "Do what I ask of you."
Ilianya stood up to look directly at her. "Then I have your word that once I have completed this task you will give me what I want?'
The Force scoffed. "Remember it was you who betrayed my will and brought upon yourself this gift of immortality, not I." She paused briefly before her expression lightened. "But if it will help you complete your mission, then yes, you have my word."
She bowed her head in respect. "My deepest thanks, my Lady."
"Thank me not," the Force rejoined, "for this task that lies ahead is more difficult than you've ever faced."
"I will do what must be done, my Lady."
The Force smiled as she touched Ilianya's arm. "That is all I can ever hope for. Now go and remember that I shall be watching."
Ilianya's green eyes shot open as she realized that she back aboard the Chiss warship. Without thought, she activated the nearby comm channel.
"Yes General?"
"Captain Thrawn, please inform the Admiral that effective immediately I am resigning my post and I will require my ship to be prepared for takeoff within the hour."
The alien didn't question her reasons, but simply bowed his head in respect. "It will be done at once."
When Ilianya flipped off the channel, she took a labored breath, turning to stare out the nearest window. The Unknown Regions had always been a safe haven where she could hide from everything: the Jedi; the galaxy; her humanity. It appeared though that the Force had other ideas as she was going to be thrust into a situation that she had hoped to avoid. For many years she had sensed the rising power of the Sith, which coincided with the decline of the Jedi. Granted, she held no love for the obstinate Order after their past difficulties, but she feared for the Guardians of the Peace. Most of all, she feared what their absence would mean for the galaxy.
Following the will of the Force was never an easy prospect.
The return to the Palace proper was held in silence as Anakin guided Queen Amidala to the private meeting area within the residential wing. Captains Panaka and Olié followed the group inside and took seats opposite the Queen who sat at the head of the long, rectangular wooden table. Once the doors had been sealed, Amidala stood up.
"I know my announcement came as a shock to some of you and I apologize for calling a meeting so soon after but several important issues must be addressed." She then turned to Sabé who handed her a large datapad. "Captain Panaka."
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
"As of this date, I hereby promote you to the rank of General. You are relieved from your responsibilities as Captain of Palace security. I place you in charge of organizing and then commanding the new army."
A crease of a smile appeared momentarily on Panaka's face before he snapped back into attention. "Thank you for the opportunity, Your Highness."
Amidala nodded before turning to Sabé. "Because of Captain…General…Panaka's promotion, I relieve you of your duties as chief handmaiden and the Queen's decoy and promote you to Captain of Palace security. You will retain your status as a handmaiden, as you will assist the new chief handmaiden in her duties."
Sabé bowed her head respectfully although with a slight frown. "As you wish, Your Highness."
The Queen offered her a reassuring smile before returning her focus onto the datapad. "Captain Olie?"
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
"Based on your years of service, I hereby promote you to Sky Marshall. You will oversee our starfighter force and will assist in the construction of the Chommell Sector Navy."
"Thank you, Your Highness."
Amidala smiled before shifting her attention to the end of the table. "Yané. You are relieved of your duties as a handmaiden. I appoint you as the Chief Medical Officer over the Ministry of Health."
"I don't know what to say, Your Majesty." She said with an astonished look.
"You could say thank you," Amidala quipped.
Chuckling, Yané answered, "My thanks, Your Highness."
The Queen nodded as she cast her gaze on Anakin. "Lord Skywalker."
"Yes, Your Majesty?"
Her impassive face became pained as she placed the datapad down. "Anakin, of everyone present, I'm afraid that you will have to make the greatest sacrifice." He nodded, but remained silent as he waited for her to continue. "I grant you a commission into our starfighter corps at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. You will have to withdraw from the Academy so you can receive training from Marshall Olié and carry out your new duties. We will provide private tutors so that you can continue your education, but you will also receive additional schooling from our off world advisor to prepare you for your duty as High Protector, to act as the Royal Court's Chief Military Advisor when you are ready."
"I am overwhelmed," Anakin admitted as he stood. He then half-bowed. "But I gladly accept what I must do to serve the crown."
Amidala appeared to relax when she exchanged brief smiles with her friend. She then shifted her focus to the entire group. "I will select two handmaidens to fill the roles left by Sabé and Yané. In addition, I will open another position for a handmaiden who has significant diplomatic experience since we will be having more contact with Chommell Minor, Otoh Gunga and many of the smaller systems in the sector." She paused to catch her breath. "What is not being made public though is that Parliament and I agree that until we can train a decent sized army, we are vulnerable. Therefore, I have been authorized to use our kelvacyte deposit to secure the means to build a supporting droid army."
Murmurs filled the room as Amidala waited patiently for them to calm. "I know this news is difficult to accept, but until we can secure our borders, there simply is no other alternative."
"Does our intelligence source have any reason to suspect another attack?" Panaka questioned.
"Since we received word of Nute Gunray's acquittal, we've observed increased activity coming from Cato Neimoidia, but nothing to suggest that we are in eminent danger," the Queen replied.
"Who will serve as our chief military advisor?" Sabé asked.
"At the moment of my announcement, enquires were sent to several friendly worlds that possess standing armies. We hope to receive word soon." Amidala looked upon the weary faces of her friends and colleagues. "If there are no further questions, our meeting is adjourned."
While the others were departing, the Queen called out, "Sabé, Anakin would you remain behind for a moment?"
Both obeyed, taking seats next to Amidala. Once alone, she released a deep breath. "There is one more issue that we need to discuss and it is something that Parliament has deemed it critical to maintain complete secrecy over." Sabé and Anakin shot confused looks at one another before returning their focus to the Queen. "What do you know of the Taldenshar?"
Sabé remained silent while Anakin gave her a puzzled look. "It means 'those who watch' in Naboovian."
"Precisely," Amidala said with a hint of a smile.
"I thought the Taldenshar disbanded ages ago." Sabé questioned.
"That's the official word. While they formally dissolved about eighty years ago, a small number of specially trained members of Palace security have been sent since then to Corellia to train in counterterrorist techniques and espionage. The head of this group remains the Captain of Palace security, but since you already have added duties on top of that, I want Anakin to be your deputy commander."
"Are there already trained agents in the field?" he asked immediately.
Amidala shook her head. "We have several people who have undergone training, but as this took place prior to the occupation, they are still on Corellia awaiting orders."
"Are we to send them to Cato Neimoidia?" Anakin queried without hesitation.
The Queen grinned. "That all depends on you, given that I know nothing of your activities," she said with a wink. "But if I were in your position, I would find a way to get them there without detection. The Trade Federation has bolstered its defenses since Gunray's return from Coruscant making their central system that much harder to reach." Amidala then rose to her feet. "With that I bid you both good evening." She then turned and walked out of the room, leaving the remaining occupants in a state of bewilderment.
Obi-Wan sat listlessly in the Jedi Council's antechamber as he waited for the session to conclude. By the time the doors opened, he found himself too nervous to think. With polite nods to the exiting Masters, Obi-Wan hurried inside and saw that Adi Gallia had remained behind.
"Master Gallia."
"Obi-Wan," she replied with a slight tilt of her head.
"I wondered if I might have a word with you."
She nodded as she placed her things back on her chair. "I think I know what this is about."
"What happened with Siri?"
"I'm sure you've already read the official report," Adi offhandedly replied as she turned around to pick up her cloak. "She's left the Jedi Order."
Obi-Wan crossed his arms. "There was no indication that she was dissatisfied?"
"She was rather distraught about something personal; but it is not your concern, young one."
Obi-Wan's frown grew while a sudden pain filled his chest. "It was about me, wasn't it Master?"
"It wasn't your fault, Obi-Wan," Adi said with a sad smile. "Don't let this affect your good judgment by going off and doing something rash."
Raising an eyebrow, he responded, "I don't know what you mean, Master."
Adi shook her head in disbelief. "Just stay out of this. The Council will handle everything and that should be good enough for you."
"Of course, Master." Obi-Wan replied, inwardly wincing at the rebuke that sounded too much like what Qui-Gon used to tell him. "May the Force be with you."
Adi Gallia tilted her head in acknowledgement before briskly leaving the Council's chambers. Obi-Wan ambled to the nearby bay window to stare out at the city. Something didn't feel right about this situation, but until he learned more, he would follow his former Master's advice by remaining patient. He hoped that whatever Siri had gotten herself involved in, that she was well and relatively safe. A pang of guilt erupted within him, despite Master Gallia's insistence to the contrary, he may have been the catalyst for her drastic behavior.
TBC-Thoughts, comments and reviews are appreciated!
