Chapter 12
"Obi-Wan, could you open the doors, please?" asked Qui-Gon.
With a sigh, Obi-Wan complied.
Jessica walked in. There was no illusion about her. Everyone could see her for what she was; everyone could read her Force signature.
As expected, a few lightsabres hummed into existence at the darkness in her aura.
What was unexpected was Yoda's reaction. "Jokonin!" he hissed in surprise.
Jessica turned to look at him. "Hello, Yoda. Long time, no see." Her tone bespoke an old disagreement – or rivalry.
Everyone in the Council Chamber was looking from one to the other. Obi-Wan finally broke the silence. "You two know each other?" The incredulity in his voice was echoed by the faces and auras of the Councillors.
"Oh, yes," said Jessica quietly. "We go way back, Yoda and I."
There was stunned silence. Then Jessica turned to Qui-Gon. "Could we please get on with it?"
Everyone had put there lightsabres away. Yoda hadn't drawn his, so they supposed Jessica must be fairly safe. But they were still wary.
Windu snapped out of his daze of disbelief. "You agree with Qui-Gon about the boy?"
Jessica turned to look at him. "Do I think that Anakin is the Chosen One of the prophecy? Yes. It is the most likely explanation for the strength of his innate power."
There was an expectant silence. Everyone waited for Yoda to speak. "Tested, he will be," the small, green Jedi finally announced.
"I would like to be present when he is tested," Jessica informed the Council.
"We cannot permit that," Windu told her.
Every being in the room felt a brief flash of anger from Jessica. Then it was gone. Not hidden, not suppressed in the Jedi way, but controlled.
"I feel it is important that I be present," Jessica said, with exaggerated calmness. "I will be contributing to Anakin's future." She paused before continuing. "I have foreseen it."
Windu closed his eyes, and searched the Force. His specialty was finding the shatter-points of the Force, and determining links. He found himself compelled to agree with Jessica; her future was connected with many others, including the boy under discussion.
When he opened his eyes, he looked at Yoda and gave the slightest of nods.
Yoda sighed. "Present, you may be, Jokonin."
Jessica smiled. It was bright, cheerful – and totally fake. "Thank you." Her voice was overly cheerful. "If that's all, I'll be leaving now."
Qui-Gon shared a glance with Obi-Wan.Neither of them needed the Force to knowthat the Council room would not be a pleasant place to remain. They both bowed, and quickly left.
A/N: I felt this was an acceptable place to stop. I hope you enjoy it!
