Twilight

by B L Lindley Anderson

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan are dispatched to a planet to test midiclorian levels in children. They don't realize that this is bait to draw them into Dr. Yalla's trap. What does he have planned for the Jedi?

Twilight

by B. L. Lindley-Anderson

"Jareel, good to see you. How did your mission to Flochon go?" Qui-Gon asked as he walked up to the big blonde man who was standing near the middle of the large echoing training facility so that he could observe sparring practice easily.

"It went well enough," he replied. "A little anticlimatic after Atlan III. It was little more than observing some formalities of a treaty signing. However, the Republic had agreed to have representation there."

"I heard about the excitement on Atlan III, the assassination attempt on the emperor. When you go back on duty, you do it in a big way," Qui-Gon grinned.

Jareel did not however. "We were there to do a job…and we did it to the best of our ability. Just as we did on Flochon." The big man was silent for a moment. "So, what has been happening here while we were on mission? Does Mi'al still think I am unable to do my job?"

The elder Jedi sighed. "You're being a little harsh on him, don't you think? After all, he was just concerned about you. What would he gain by keeping you back? Anyway…Mi'al has gone on sabbatical."

"Sabbatical?" the big man said in surprise. "Mi'al?" He considered for a moment. "Is something wrong?"

"All I can tell you is what he told me before he left. Mi'al said he was going where he was needed. He is on a working sabbatical. And…he has made quite an impact where he went."

"Where he was needed? He truly said that?"

The elder Jedi said nothing but only nodded as he turned to watch sparring padawans. After a silent moment Qui-Gon said, "Mi'al is quite a man."

"It doesn't seem so…running away like that."

"Running away?"

"Why else would he take leave…right after the controversy with the council. You said he didn't feel needed. That was because the council opposed him," he said with certainty.

"I don't think you understand the entire situation Jareel. There was more to his decision than just the council opposing him." Qui-Gon reminded his big friend of the healer's recent trials…and then summarized what he had done on Orino under such harsh conditions…making sure to include his contribution to bringing the truth about the Gorinions to light.

Although the blonde Jedi said nothing, his face told his feelings. It was obvious he was learning a new respect for the Jedi healer. When he did start to make a reply, Qui-Gon pointed, indicating that Daven and Obi-Wan were about to begin their sparring match. The two masters put their entire attention on their apprentices.

With back to back missions for Jareel and Daven, it had been awhile since Qui-Gon had seen his friend's padawan. He was surprised. Daven looked very different. He was more muscular and much more serious looking. There was no gleam in his dark eyes as there usually was. His movements were precise and short. There was no wasted motion, but when it was needed, he gave his all to a move. Daven seemed in a world all his own. Qui-Gon couldn't remember seeing him so focused before. Nothing outside the person he was battling drew his attention.

Obi-Wan seemed to be at a disadvantage at the moment. Hoping to catch Daven off guard, the apprentice somersaulted over his friend's head. He tried to land a blow before Daven could complete his turn, but to Obi-Wan's surprise, it was easily turned aside. The darker complexioned apprentice then launched a vicious series of blows, thrusting hard and backing Obi-Wan up easily. This was a new Daven that he was dueling and Obi-Wan was very surprised at the intensity of his attack. He had to work hard to turn the blows aside…and he wasn't entirely successful. Several of them found their target. The power behind the opposing saber was different as well. Daven was much stronger. Obi-Wan kept backing away as he tried to recover his focus. His retreat was somewhat clumsy however because of his surprise and the apprentice fell backward. His saber went flying from his hand. At once Daven had his saber point at Obi-Wan's throat. When Obi-Wan looked up into his friend's eyes, he saw a stranger. This was not the Daven who had to work hard to defeat him before. This was a different person. There was no taunting grin at the defeat. There were only those dark eyes, like onyx, boring through him.

"Daven?" Obi-Wan said quietly.

Then almost as if he were coming out of a trance, the padawan quickly stepped back and powered off his light saber. He closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath, which he slowly exhaled. Without a word, he extended a hand to help Obi-Wan to his feet. Obi-Wan accepted it, but studied his friend closely.

"Are you all right?"

"Yes, of course. Why?" Daven answered.

Obi-Wan retrieved his weapon. "Uh…nothing."

The two apprentices walked toward their masters. Daven bowed slowly and deeply. Obi-Wan watched his friend out of the corner of his eye as he too bowed. He was still bewildered by the complete change in Daven.

"You have done well my apprentice," Jareel said as he patted Daven's shoulder. To Obi-Wan he said, "A good effort Obi-Wan. You continue to learn." Then the pair walked away.

Obi-Wan stared after them.

"Something wrong Padawan?"

"He's a different person Master," the apprentice said solemnly.

"It seemed so from my perspective."

"Daven and I have always been closely matched. Whoever was the most aware usually was the victor."

"And you counted on that today," Qui-Gon said knowingly.

Obi-Wan's cheeks colored and he replied sheepishly, "Today he soundly defeated me. I'm not sure I could have won that sparring match. I've never seen him like this. He didn't even tease me about winning. He said nothing at all."

Qui-Gon put a hand on his apprentice's arm to make sure he had his attention. "You know they both are still struggling with what happened on Charon. And…you remember what I told you about Jareel saying he needed to be more focused and serious so that couldn't happen again. I think he has transferred that feeling to Daven. I was watching his attack. It's very different from what I've seen him do before. He was quite intent. He has found a new level of connection with the Force."

"Well…I'm glad he has that. But still…." The apprentice was hesitant to finish the thought. He was afraid his master would think he was only considering himself. However, at Qui-Gon's intense stare, he ventured to complete his sentence. "I miss my friend…"

The elder Jedi draped his arm around Obi-Wan's shoulder. "And I miss my friend also Padawan. However, I think they are still there…just hidden away right now. Jareel has over reacted to Charon…as Mi'al said. But this…new and improved Jareel is not really Jareel. There's still the old prankster inside, wanting very much to come out. He can't keep it inside forever…because that's part of who he truly is. This is a backlash…but it will not last. Jareel just has to find the balance. And he will, as he learns to accept and deal with the incident on Charon. All this is true of Daven as well."

"Do you really think so?"

"I do…because Mi'al does. And I think so also…because of what I went through. If you want to help Daven, try to accept the new Daven and be supportive of him. When he does find the balance, he will remember you were there for him in the hard times as well as the good. It may take time however. How much of a friend is he? How hard are you willing to work?"

"I'll do all I can Master."

Qui-Gon smiled. "That's good enough Padawan. No one can expect you to do more than you are able to."

"Hanar, you are the first person I have allowed to accompany me here to Jabbot. I was conducting some research here as well. Research that the medical board on Charon never knew about," the tall blue creature chuckled.

"What is it Yalla?" the shorter human asked.

"This has nothing to do with medicine…but everything to do with what we are trying to accomplish. This is an experiment in manipulation. I was curious how many people I could manipulate simultaneously…and how well."

The small ship entered orbit around the blue-green mottled sphere of Jabbot. Yalla studied the planet carefully. "There! See that island there. That's where we are heading. That is my laboratory."

"Tell me. I'm very curious now."

Yalla just grinned a malicious grin. "You'll see soon enough." Then he turned to the controls to prepare to land.

A large crowd was gathered when Yalla stepped out onto the landing ramp. At once, they began to cheer, shout, and whistle. He raised his hands over his head and waved. The reception just became more intense.

"I can see you've been here before," Hanar whispered.

"Yes. Several times. My loyal followers. Now we will find out how loyal."

Yalla said nothing to the crowd yet. He just waved, smiled and made victory gestures while the group of humanoids worked themselves into a frenzy. As the noise seemed to decrease somewhat, the blue creature knew he had to speak now before they regained their calm…and their senses.

"We thank you for the great welcome you have shown us. This is my helper. My trusted assistant. I hope you will accept him as you have accepted me." The crowd erupted into a new spell of cheering and applause. At a jab from the blue creature, Hanar lifted his hands and waved enthusiastically at the crowd. Then Yalla raised his hands for quiet. "You will be happy to know my new headquarters is now operational." A cheer. "However, it has taken us time to get it ready. We were forced to flee my lab on Charon because it was invaded by the Jedi!"

A rumble went through the crowd. "I know some of you have had trouble believing what I tell you about the Jedi. They look so clean and pure from what you hear about them. That is because that's all they want you to know about them. Two Jedi came to my lab in disguise…using deception to gain entry…armed and ready to take me away. I barely escaped with my life," he lied. "I had to escape with only what I could carry in my hand. My life's work and all my belongings are back on Charon…being ransacked by those Jedi liars and thugs!"

Now there seemed to be real anger in the crowd. "I've already told you about the corruption in the government and how they are holding me back…now hunting me. I have found out more! When your children are tested to see if they can become Jedi, that is a lie! That is not what the Jedi are doing with your children. I was able to find this out before I had to flee Charon. Ah…but I wonder if I should tell you. You think the Jedi are the keepers of peace and of justice. How will you believe me if I tell you otherwise? What have I done to cause you to believe me?"

"Tell us!" some one shouted. Then a chant began "Tell us! Tell us!"

"How did you do this?" Hanar whispered in amazement.

"I'll explain later. They trust me completely now." Then Yalla held his hands high for silence. "Very well. I will tell you. If you can not accept what I tell you, I will go away and not come back…for I have lost your trust. However, if you do accept what I say…you must be prepared to act on it…for your children's sake." He paused for a long minute and just stared at the crowd. All were completely quiet, waiting for his words. An expectant air hung over them.

"Yes, the Jedi do take your children back to the temple…but not to train them to become Jedi. That is a lie! They are selling your children into slavery…and keeping some for themselves. That is why they test them. They are looking for the strongest, the best workers…the prettiest girls." He pointed at the group of people. "Your children are being stolen from you and used and abused by the Jedi."

A cry of anger and astonishment sounded from the throng. Then the people began talking among themselves. The blue creature held his hands up. "Please…listen. Listen. I'm glad you believe me. It makes my work of exposing the Jedi easier. You can be at the forefront of that exposure also! Are you willing to work with me…not just for your own children, but for the children of the galaxy?"

Shouts of agreement sounded. "It will not be easy. The Jedi will oppose us. The Republic will oppose us. Those who don't believe us will oppose us."

Someone shouted. "You've never lied to us. You've only helped us." Many agreements echoed. "Gera!" The crowd took up the chant. "Gera! Gera! Gera!"

The researcher grinned evilly as he glanced at Hanar.

"What does Gera mean?" Hanar asked.

"That is the name they know me by," Yalla replied. "Mustn't be too high profile with this." He allowed the scene to continue long enough to get the crowd emotionally high again.

"Yes, my friends, my followers. I helped you. When no one else on your own planet even cared…I cared. I took care of you. I gave you a purpose for living. You have pledged your loyalty to me. Will you be the first to help me undertake this crusade against the evil Jedi?"

"YES!" the crowd shouted as one.

Yalla and Hanar were seated at a table in the largest room of the largest house in the small village. It was very rough compared to what the doctor was used to even though it was the finest the people had to offer. He had long ago ceased to care about that however. When Yalla saw the results of his psychological manipulations…that they were beginning to work, all else decreased in importance here in this village.

A man and woman entered. They brought trays of food and drink, which they set before the pair. "Do you require anything else?" the leader of the village asked.

"No thank you," Yalla smiled warmly. "You have been most kind. I thank you for your generous hospitality."

"I will leave you to talk. When I am needed, you will let me know." He bowed and left with the woman.

Hanar watched them leave. "They seem even more under control than some of the ones back at the mining operation. How can you control them so well being away from them?"

A grin came to the thin blue lips. "It's easier than I thought it would be. Finding the village in such dire need when they were having a drought…and even the fishing was not good, it was easy to make them dependent on me. They literally looked on me as their savior." He chuckled. "Part of my research funding fed these people…but it was necessary to gain their trust. They were unable to get help from their own planet, because many other areas were suffering as well. But…I helped them see that the rest of their planet was hoarding all they had because they were afraid a drought would hit them…and naturally they had to save their own people first."

"Naturally," Hanar grinned.

"So, that was the first step. With a people that I can't have so much presence with, taking care of them is more important than direct programming…like we are doing with the others. But, it was very necessary to exercise mind control over their leader. I had to spend much time with him convincing him that he was an enemy and a burden to his planet. Of course, a little stirring of the pot, so to speak, didn't hurt. Convincing other leaders on Jabbot that this little village was a trouble spot…a rebellion waiting to happen only made them treat these people as enemies, a cankered sore to be isolated. I reported the angry welcome I got here…almost killed! That helped quite a bit as well. Now Zathar, their leader, is most loyal to me. He's very paranoid…something he transmits to his people well. Of course I do send them holovids and such with my…inspirational messages, which Zathar seems more than anxious to share with his people."

"Sounds ingenious."

"Thank you. We'll see how ingenious. I've wondered just how effective this has been. They always seem loyal enough…and do what I ask of them without hesitation. However, those have been smaller things. I need to know how far they will go. That is the only true test of how well this has worked. I need to know if they are willing to go against the Jedi. If this works Hanar, we could have even more followers than we have back on our little moon, Answar. That is what this entire thing is all about. This is an experiment in control."

"Well…so far I am impressed. Even if it doesn't succeed to your wishes, you have accomplished something very interesting here."

"Yes. If I succeed, we possibly increase our followers. If I fail…perhaps I at least will learn something."

"So…what is it you have in mind to test them?"

Yalla gave that familiar malicious smile and leaned his arms on the table before he began talking.

Master Yoda was standing on the upper level of the gym watching masters and apprentices in their training. It was one of his more enjoyable breaks from the day to day business of the council. To see young minds being molded and responding…ah, how he missed teaching. By staying this close to it, he could experience the satisfaction vicariously. His big eyes roamed the training floor, stopping now and again for a closer look at a particular padawan or a particular maneuver. At the moment, there was no one else on this level with him.

Although he could easily shut out the presence of others, he still preferred to watch alone. That way no one knew to whom he might be giving particular attention. Word traveled quickly when it was decided Master Yoda was checking up on one knight specifically. He knew it would not remain that way for long however. A track encircled the gym on the upper level and soon masters and padawans would come up to take their laps. For the moment however, he was quite content in his peace and aloneness…but that was about to end.

"Master Yoda."

"Training shouldn't you be…hmm?" the little green creature said without looking.

"Your pardon, my Master," Qui-Gon replied. "I was just curious if you have word from Mi'al. I have wondered how he is doing on Orino. Working with the Gorinions, he is so far away from the more civilized areas that it is hard to contact him. I thought maybe…you might have heard something from Intergalactic Relief."

"Heard I have. Reports from them I do not receive. Busy they are. When wrong something is however, tell me they do."

Qui-Gon's eyes suddenly turned dark. "Is something wrong?"

"Major it is not. But surprising it is not either. Returning from the last supply delivery, said the driver that reported to him Vita did, not Mi'al."

"Is Mi'al all right?"

Finally, the councilor turned to look up at his former padawan. "All right he is. Worked himself to exhaustion he did. Surprising it is not. Stubborn he is. Stubborn as another Jedi I know of." Yoda paused for his comment to sink in. "Tending him Vita is…and seeing to the patients. Learned much Vita has it seems."

"That's what Mi'al told me. I'm glad that…something good has finally come out of Ruka. Mi'al thinks Vita will make a good doctor."

"Hmm. Talk with you I need to. An assignment have I for you."

"Yes Master Yoda?"

"From the planet Jabbot have we reports of possible candidates for the temple. Since a mission you do not have, to Jabbot you will go for the testing."

The Jedi did not react. That was not his favorite assignment. It was true that he enjoyed interacting with children…and testing them was very interesting. However, it troubled him to see the parents' reaction to the separation. Knowing they were giving up their child for life, most likely never to see him or her again…it was very painful. It was anguishing for a Jedi to observe because they could so strongly feel the parents' distress through the Force. It was almost as if the Jedi were going through the same experience…as close as one could get without acting living the event.

Yoda knew well how many Jedi felt. He had done this assignment himself countless times. However, it was necessary if the Jedi were to continue. He found his comfort in the Force and did the job he felt the Force leading him to do. The Jedi master knew that Qui-Gon would do the same. Uncomfortable as it was, Qui-Gon was able to find his comfort in the close connection he had with the living Force. Knowing this, Yoda had him in mind when news came to him from Jabbot.

"Yes Master Yoda. When will we leave?"

"Leave at your convenience you may. Go you may as soon as you are ready. Contact me you will before you leave. Direct you I will where to go."

"Yes my Master." Qui-Gon bowed as the little Jedi hobbled away on his gimmer stick.

"Going to test children." Jareel repeated Qui-Gon's words.

"Yes, on Jabbot. I've been there before for the same reason."

"As I have. A hard assignment, but the people of Jabbot have always looked on it as a duty, their part of helping the galaxy."

"Yes. Well, we may be bringing back some new additions to the crèche. Future space pirates for you to tease," Qui-Gon didn't smile…but his eyes did.

The elder Jedi saw a quick twinkle in Jareel's ice blue eyes and just as suddenly it was gone. Then he corrected Qui-Gon's last statement. "Future Jedi to be cared for and trained."

Qui-Gon was not entirely surprised at Jareel's response. Still he wanted to test his friend…to see how he was recovering himself. He knew it would take time. There was no way to hurry it…only to support Jareel.

"Well…I must be going. Obi-Wan and I are to leave as soon as we are ready. No point in wasting time."

"One thing…if you have but a minute."

"Yes?"

"I heard that Mi'al…had worked himself into a state of exhaustion…on his sabbatical."

"That's true. Master Yoda told me."

"Hmm…" was the only response. Then as Qui-Gon turned to walk away, Jareel called out, "May the Force be with you."

The elder Jedi paused to look over his shoulder. "Thank you old friend. And with you."

Zathar entered the room. "I have confirmation. Two Jedi are being sent here based on our false report to the temple. They will be here in a few days."

"Excellent," Yalla pronounced. "You have done well. You are a wise ruler. I knew you would understand when I told you about the lying Jedi. They chased me on Charon because they knew I was trying to spread the truth about them. I knew I could come to you for help. And…I knew you would want to fight for your children since the Jedi have taken them in the past. You can make a difference now. You can be an important leader on your planet because of the stand you take. The others…the ones who refused to help you before, still believe those liars. They will not help me. On the whole planet, Zathar is wise and brave enough to stand against the Jedi."

"You honor me with your words. I have seen your care for my people and I. That is why I know you tell the truth. It is hard to believe about the Jedi. I have seen them and talked with them. You are right. They act well. But why would you help us like that and then lie? It would make no sense. Yalla speaks true. We will shelter you and lead in your fight against the liars. Soon the other villages will see the truth we stand for."

"Yes, they must be made to see the truth. The children are most important. But you must also make sure that they understand that those who truly do receive training are only trained in hopes of making them like the evil Jedi…just as they tried to do with me. I was lucky enough to have escaped that…but I have told you of their abuse and control of me…" Yalla allowed his voice to trail off.

"I remember," Zathar said with a mournful tone. "They forced you to do their evil. So great was their control that some of it remains."

"Yes. That is why I…sometimes lose my temper and…try to hurt people," his tone seemed pained. "I don't want to hurt people…with my…power…but…"

"I understand. They are evil and must be stopped."

Inside Yalla was gleeful over how easily this simple man had been brainwashed into accepting all the blue creature told him. Now Yalla's influence over him was so great, he would believe just about anything the researcher told him. Including this lie that he created to cover his temper…and the times he'd had to use the Force to punish Zathar for questioning him. The blue creature turned to Hanar. "He is most wise Hanar. I have seen Zathar speak with his people. He has been able to convince even those who would not believe in the beginning. We have a valuable ally and friend in Zathar."

"We thank you for your help," Hanar tried to say in sincerity.

Yalla spoke again to the leader. "When I first spoke with you I could see your wisdom. That is why I wanted to help you. I knew you were a strong leader. Thank you for the news, Zathar. While I am here, we will have meetings every night after the people finish their chores for the day. They are important meetings. I will teach them things I have taught you. You know that is important. Everyone must attend."

"That is important. I will make sure all attend…even the children."

"Yes. You remember. One is never too young to learn. Even the smallest child may learn something. And it is valuable for families to be together and learn together."

"We will be at the meeting building after the evening meal time." The leader bowed and left.

"He is quite well trained," Hanar remarked.

"Yes…even better than a trained animal. Zathar was such an easy puppet. The less worldly are so much easier to indoctrinate. They have no idea what goes on beyond the boundaries of their village. And…a little Force influence on the weak minded leader helps as well," Yalla grinned evilly as Hanar chuckled.

"Jabbot," Obi-Wan pronounced the word. "I remember that planet. Loyal to the Republic and the inhabitants seem quite friendly to representatives of the government."

"Yes," the Jedi master agreed. "We have enjoyed a very amiable relationship with that planet. This will be an easy mission. All we need do is conduct the required tests…and the parents will most likely accept it."

"Isn't it a little strange that there are three candidates in the same area?"

"Not really. It is not a very large island; still there is more than one village on it. Besides that…if people who have children with high midiclorian counts stay in the same area, it would make sense that the gene pool of the area would be affected."

"Yes, I suppose so."

"At any rate. We won't know if these children truly do have the required count until we arrive at Jabbot, so it does no good to speculate on it. Just relax and enjoy your trip."

"A good chance to catch up on my reading…and sleep."

Qui-Gon grinned as he warmly tousled Obi-Wan's closely cropped hair.

The transport set down in an opening near the village. Qui-Gon had already contacted Zathar before they landed, so the leader knew this was the Jedi transport. He had instructed his people carefully…every night before Yalla began his indoctrination talks. Even though the villagers had poured out their hate at the Jedi at each meeting, it was carefully controlled now. Being a Force user himself, Yalla knew that the Jedi would easily sense an intense feeling of anger. That was part of the reason for letting them pour it out each night…to relieve some of what they felt so it wouldn't be pent up. Another reason was to get them feeling instead of thinking.

Still…these were simple people, somewhat backward, being away from the large cities, centers of technology. Yalla didn't entirely trust their ability to do what they claimed they would do. It was a delicate situation to convince Zathar to keep most of his people away from the Jedi…until the right moment. The blue creature didn't want to offend the leader by suggesting he or his people were unintelligent. That is what had made Zathar upset at his co-inhabitants of Jabbot initially…that they thought the villagers were simple and stupid. However…Yalla had not gotten to where he was by being forceful or untactful. Easily the blue being guided Zathar to see that fewer people around simply meant fewer things to go wrong. The village leader readily agreed and directed his people appropriately.

So, the village leader and two carefully selected men went out to greet the Jedi and bring them into the village. Yalla and Hanar were carefully hidden away. The blue creature was content although he couldn't see what was going on. Soon he would see all. That was good enough for him.

The two Jedi bowed before the village leader. "I'm Jedi master Qui-Gon Jinn and this is my apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi. We are honored to meet you."

In his practiced and coached manner, the leader inclined his head. "I am Zathar Zan leader of this village. You are welcome, Jedi. Come and we will show you where you may refresh yourselves before you begin your work." The tall man turned and walked toward his village.

"I have been to your planet before," Qui-Gon began. "It is a beautiful place."

"You have been here before…to test the children?" Zathar asked curiously.

"Yes, that is correct."

The village leader worked hard to control his anger. This bearded Jedi was one of the monsters who were stealing their children. Zathar didn't understand how Jedi could sense his hate, but Yalla had conducted convincing demonstrations of his ability to know when Zathar was mad…mad at the blue creature. The leader never forgot those demonstrations…or the lessons he learned about crossing Yalla. Therefore, Zathar knew he had to think good thoughts and not the hateful ones that threatened to break through as he remembered children he had so freely allowed to go with the evil Jedi.

Qui-Gon continued, "The Republic has always appreciated the loyalty Jabbot has shown. Jabbot is a great friend."

Zathar said nothing as he continued walking. The Jedi's words were only inflaming his feelings. A great friend? No…a great fool. That is why you like Jabbot so much. Never again will you take another of our young ones.

The seemingly stoic…and very quiet village leader was disconcerting to the elder Jedi. Something was wrong. He wasn't sure what yet…but his senses were screaming at him. He looked over to his apprentice who nodded.

I feel it too Master.

Be mindful Obi-Wan. We don't know what may await us.

Yes Master.

As they entered the village, the Jedi looked around. At once, they were struck by the lack of activity. Although they had not been to this particular settlement before, comparing it to others, they knew that small isolated groups of people had to work hard just to survive. There was no one tending a garden, no one gathering water. The only other villagers they saw were a small number of males who seemed to be standing guard.

Zathar stopped walking and turned to face the pair. He was smiling…yet it seemed unnatural. "We welcome you to our village. I know you might like to rest after your trip, but we would like to show you our friendship first. Our people have a ceremony to perform to greet strangers. They are preparing right now."

The explanation for the lack of activity seemed reasonable…somewhat. Qui-Gon tried to keep an open mind…but a cautious one. Frankly, he would have preferred to get to the business they had come for. However, he also knew how significant such ceremony and ritual was to certain races or planets. To try to bypass such a greeting would probably be a great affront to the people, so the Jedi knew he would have to endure and allow the ceremony to proceed.

"We thank you and your people for your friendship," Qui-Gon inclined his head.

"Come," Zathar said with a gesture. "Our people await you."

Once more, the elder Jedi glanced to his apprentice. Right now, they needed to be sure of their link. With the unease they both sensed the pair could not allow anything to separate them either physically or mentally. The two Jedi walked along behind the leader. Qui-Gon glanced around. He still couldn't shake the feeling of something strange about the village. The Jedi saw shutters that were barely open suddenly close…and felt a flash of fear. Obi-Wan caught onto it also. A sudden surge of hate hit him and he glanced around to see a couple of heads peeking from behind curtains. The pair exchanged a glance.

Zathar was heading for a great building in the center of the village. The largest structure, it served as a place of assembly for gatherings that included all villagers. It was elaborately decorated with carvings and brightly painted designs on all sides of the building. Mineral encrusted stones used in the decorations glimmered in the bright sunlight.

"This is our meeting hall," the leader pointed. "It was built with stones from nearby and then covered with a mixture of clays which help to fix the stones together. Our people have made it also a tribute to our ancestors. The carvings are great leaders from our past. The designs represent their achievements."

Zathar was successful in pulling the Jedi's attention from the people for the moment. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were studying the structure as Zathar spoke. It was quite beautiful to look upon and the history was interesting as well. And…it took enough of their attention away that the two Jedi were not immediately aware of the movement going on nearby.

Trying to take advantage of their distraction, the hidden villagers rushed forward. Men with crazed looks on their face and brandishing weapons as well as rocks and sticks. It seemed to be an almost endless stream as the villagers continued to rush out of buildings and from behind buildings. As soon as the attack began, however, the Jedi had their sabers out and activated. The threat of dying at the point of the glimmering blades did not slow the villagers any. They continued their advance as they began firing blasters, throwing stones, and trying to land a blow with their sticks, or whatever else they could find to hit with.

Back to back, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan began turning the shots aside or back along their original trajectory. Men fell in screams of pain. Yet, the people continued to come. Many, many men…running and firing. Even with sabers to protect the Jedi, there were simply too many enemies firing on them. There was no way of retreat either. Villagers were coming from all directions. It was only a matter of time before they would be overtaken…and Qui-Gon knew it.

There are too many. We can not win this fight Obi-Wan. We must try to escape. Move!

Running toward the advancing men caught them off guard enough that several of them quit firing. Qui-Gon was able to get into the midst of them. Now they hesitated to fire because of their fellow villagers' proximity. The Jedi swung his saber as he continued to move. He had no idea where Obi-Wan was and right now he couldn't afford to drop his concentration enough to locate him.

The only disadvantage to Qui-Gon's plan is that now his back was not covered. However, he continued to move through the crowd, turning and slashing. He was turning to try to keep anyone from coming up behind him. Men were falling away from the swinging saber, yelling in pain at their injuries. Still, to the Jedi's amazement, the attack did not break off.

And then it happened. Someone had an idea how to stop the Jedi's defense. One of the men threw himself at Qui-Gon's legs and knocked them from under the Jedi. As soon as he hit the ground, he was surrounded by villagers grabbing at him. Because he had hit flat on his back, Qui-Gon had the wind knocked out of him. He was unable to recover himself in time to try to use a Force push…or any other maneuver to hold his assailants off. Several men held him and one of them applied the butt of his blaster pistol to Qui-Gon's head. At once, the Jedi quit struggling as he went unconscious.

When Qui-Gon had told his apprentice to move, Obi-Wan did just that. He took a similar approach to what his master did…swinging wildly with his weapon, hoping to drive back the attackers. Some backed off…others did not. Still he advanced knowing that stopping would mean capture. There was no way he could hold off the crowd around him. His only hope was to break free and get out of the village, into the forest.

The smaller and younger Jedi seemed to the villagers to be less threat, so they hesitated none about advancing on him. The apprentice felt a great burn on the back of his right shoulder. He managed to hold onto his light saber as he tripped and fell to the ground. The safety feature that turned the power off at detection of strong vibration kicked in. This was a built in function to keep a Jedi from injuring himself on the saber should he fall in battle. With the glowing blade no long a threat, the group had no reason to fear him. Before he could get up or even power his weapon back on, the pursuers surrounded the apprentice. As many as could get access began kicking, stoning and hitting with whatever they had managed to get their hands on. Drawing all that he was able to on the Force, the padawan shoved and those closest to him flew backward…taking along those who were in the path behind them.

He got to his feet as quickly as he could, before they recovered. Bleeding and hurting, Obi-Wan began running, running as fast as an injured Jedi could. He anticipated some blaster fire coming his way and managed to dodge or deflect it. Just a little further. But he could hear the sounds of pursuit. For now he just needed to get into the forest…to get away from those blasters and hopefully lose the pursuers.

Obi-Wan broke through the tree line and immediately changed direction. He was beginning to wear down because of the pain. No time to give up now though! He directed his hand in the opposite direction to cause a noise away from his current course of travel. He drew in a deep breath and regretted it at once. But he couldn't allow himself to be slowed by his pain. He had to keep going…no matter how much it hurt.

The distracting noise trick worked. The pursuing group divided. It was hard for either group to stay together though because of the thick forest. Obi-Wan hoped that would give him an advantage. He continued running, but slower now as his injuries began to take their toll. Soon he would have to stop. Where though? Where could he stop and be hidden?

His thoughts were rudely interrupted. The ground went from under his feet and he fell headlong into a pit in the forest floor. Obi-Wan lay still, groaning from the impact…and new hurt. He heard the approaching footsteps and forced himself to be quiet. Weakly he reached out a hand and waved it toward the opening above him, willing his pursuers to not see…or approach the pit.

It worked just like a good Jedi mind trick should. They ran right by and never noticed the dark opening in the ground. Obi-Wan let out his held breath in a rush of air and groaned when he did. The apprentice lay still…or tried to in his pain. He knew he had the blaster burn on his shoulder. He also had miscellaneous cuts, bruises, and…he wasn't exactly sure what else…from the kicks and other blows while he was down. The greatest pain from that was in his left leg and his torso area. The fall into the pit had further bruised and banged him up. He didn't think he had any broken bones, but he was no healer and not certain. There were no obvious breaks.

At once, he wondered about Qui-Gon. The padawan had not seen his master since they separated. He reached out on their link. Master? There was no response. Was he still being pursued? Master. Please respond someway or other. Nothing.

The apprentice could not know that Qui-Gon had been captured. As the Jedi master lay in the large open area outside the meeting hall, activity bustled around him. The villagers knew they had to work quickly before the Jedi regained consciousness.

"Well done so far Zathar," Yalla smiled that familiar evil grin that the leader knew well…too well.

"I told you my people would obey me."

"Yes. You are a good leader. Now we have one of the evil Jedi as our prisoner…the master. Have you heard news of the apprentice?"

"He is in the forest. My men are looking. They will not give up until they find him."

"Good. He can not be allowed to escape. If he does then the Republic and the Jedi will come here and destroy your village. We need the Jedi to admit to others what they have done. Then we will have more people to fight on our side. Until we have those other allies, we can not allow these two to leave Jabbot." At least that is the story I want you to believe. Whether you believe…and follow my commands…that is the rest of the experiment.

Hanar whispered to Yalla. "How are you going to keep him from escaping? Chains won't hold him, ropes won't. What is your plan?"

Yalla chuckled deeply in his throat. "You still have much to learn. Just watch…and you will learn."

Before the meeting hall, a platform had been erected, just for this moment. Two tall poles stood near the center with chains hanging from them. The villagers lifted the insensate body of Qui-Gon Jinn and carried it up the few steps. They held him upright before the pole. His arms were stretched up and manacled.

"How do you expect that to hold him?" Hanar asked. "He'll be out of those chains as soon as he wakes up."

"I told you to watch. They are not finished yet."

Zathar ascended the platform and pulled out a small almost pistol looking device…that had been provided by Yalla. He activated it and placed it against the metal bracelet around the Jedi's right hand. A bright light flashed and smoke snaked upward. The leader held the device in place for almost a minute. Then he repeated the action on the left one.

"What is that?" Hanar asked in a puzzled tone.

"Now the manacles are welded closed. Using the Force to open the locking mechanism is no longer a concern. He can not open them."

"Brilliant!" Hanar smiled. "Now what?"

"You will see all. I promise you. However, not from here. Come. Zathar will be in charge of the inquisition. This is part of the experiment. You and I will be mere observers…and he has a place prepared especially for us so we can see all…but not be seen."

When Obi-Wan was unable to contact Qui-Gon, his first instinct was fear for his master's safety. Something was preventing him from communicating with Qui-Gon. However, as he was and with his pursuers still nearby, there was little Obi-Wan could do to help his mentor. Assessing the situation, he decided the first thing he needed to do was to try to heal himself. But…that would take some time. Time he wasn't sure he had. The least he could do was try to relieve his suffering some.

Slowly pushing himself into a sitting position, the aching padawan looked at his surroundings. Apparently, this was more than just a pit. It was a cave. He gingerly got to his feet, holding his throbbing side. Obi-Wan walked away from the opening…and light…from above. It would be better to be further into the cave though if the villagers did come down here to look for him. Perhaps he could find some place to hide until things settled. The apprentice found raising his right arm painful because of the blaster wound. So, he kept it low and in contact with the cave wall. His left hand he held over his head in case of low hanging stalactites. He walked with short slow steps, using his booted feet to feel for tripping hazards on the floor.

Between the dull aches and his concentration on the surroundings, Obi-Wan had no idea how long he had traveled. It seemed a long time to him, but that could be deceiving because of his pain and weariness. He had to sit down and rest…but was this a safe enough place for him to go into a healing trance? He had to find someplace soon…not only for his sake, but for Qui-Gon's as well.

The apprentice started feeling along the wall with both hands, looking for any nook, any opening he could hide in. His right arm protested but he kept up his search. And just when he was convinced he would have to stop and rest his arm, he found it. His hand slipped into an opening behind a large rock. Following the lead, Obi-Wan found the rock was not attached to the wall of the cave…not completely anyway. There was a cubbyhole between rock and wall where he could settle himself. Being on the backside of the boulder, he hoped it would provide him enough protection if the villagers came searching the cave. With a slight sigh…he learned his lesson about breathing too deeply, he lowered himself to the floor. Obi-Wan made himself as comfortable on the hard rock as he could and began to reach out to the Force.

When Qui-Gon began to become aware of his surroundings, the first thing he noticed was the throb in the back of his head. He slowly opened his eyes. The images before him were somewhat blurry…but he could still tell they were people. Then his vision began to clear.

The Jedi master was becoming more aware of himself and his surroundings. He knew he was outside in the village square. Also, he realized he had been stripped from the waist up and was manacled to the pole behind him. The mob of people beyond the platform he was on were yelling. He couldn't make out what their protests were. It was all one big noise to his aching head.

Qui-Gon concentrated on the shackles around his wrists. He was exploring the lock. It would be a matter of seconds to cause the mechanism to turn using the Force and he would be free. The Jedi could see, in his mind, the lock working…but the manacles didn't come loose. He pulled on them…then harder. Understanding came to him as he used the Force to explore the bracelets.

Zathar stepped up in front of the Jedi. The crowd noise became louder. The leader held his hands up for silence. The crowd quieted a little.

Indicating Qui-Gon, he said, "Here we have the lying Jedi…for trial. You have heard the stories that were brought to us of the…abuses they have committed. They go to other planets in search of children. They say it is to find future Jedi. To find little ones who have this power they use. That is a lie! The Jedi take our children and sell them as slaves!"

The crowd roared out their disapproval. Zathar merely stood and looked out over them, allowing them the vent their outrage.

"What!" Qui-Gon cried incredulously. "That's not true!" Trying to yell to be heard over the crowd made his head pound more. The ache forced silence on him. He leaned his head back on the pole and drew in a deep breath.

The leader turned to face the Jedi master. "You came back because of the report of other children…ones you could sell. You will confess your crime. We want the truth from a Jedi. Where are our children!" The mob renewed their roaring at the question. They waved their hands over their heads…hands filled with torches, stones, and other things Qui-Gon couldn't make out.

The effects from the blow to his head caused Qui-Gon to be a little confused. He had to focus his thinking. It was hard to do with the pounding in his head. And as he had turned his attention outward on the village, he became aware of a darkness…a feeling of great evil in the village.

"What do you mean? We take your children to train them to become Jedi. I thought you understood this. That is why you let us take them…because you understood."

"Liar!" The crowd yelled. Zathar held his hands up for silence. "Don't tell me anymore of your lies. I know that is not what you do. That is what you say so parents will let their little ones go with you. You do not train them. You sell them…to be slaves!" The mob increased their frenzy.

"What! That is not true. Where did you hear this? That is the lie. We are not like that. The Jedi are the maintainers of justice. We would not allow such a wrong to happen…much less perpetrate it ourselves! I tell you the truth!" He raised his voice to be heard above the shouting people…and his head regretted it at once.

"If you will not tell us the truth…we must force it from you!" the leader said as he turned to face the crowd who began to yell even louder. He raised his hands and then walked off the platform. As soon as the elder leader was out of the way, the people began heaving their stones at the helpless Jedi. Qui-Gon fought helplessly against the chains that held him. Large rocks impacted his body. The pain was great. He focused on the Force to help him fight against the agony being foisted on him.

Why are they doing this! Why do they think we have misused their children? Who came to this small village and planted such a lie? For what purpose? Why here? It makes no sense! What is going on?

But such ruminations were a luxury right now…one he could not afford. Qui-Gon knew he needed all his attention on his connection with the Force right now. It would be the only thing that would get him through this. He tried not to cry out in pain. It would only fuel the crowd if they knew how much they were hurting him. The Jedi closed his eyes and tried to pull away from what his body felt. Focus on the Force. Focus…focus.

Obi-Wan opened his eyes. He felt better. The pain was diminished and he had more energy. He had not been able to effect much healing to his battered body. But he just wanted to overcome enough of his pain that it wouldn't steal his focus. He had to try to help his master. He wondered if he could contact him now.

Master?

Obi-Wan…

The apprentice was at once alarmed. Pain was as evident in the thought as it would have been in spoken words. Are you all right Master?

Obi-Wan…stay away from the village. A pause. Are you all right?

I'm fine Master he prevaricated. He would be glad to take punishment for lying to his master if they survived for it to be given. What's wrong with you?

Listen to me Obi-Wan. You have…to get away. The villagers…are in an uproar. It's dangerous. You…must stay away. Is there…any way you can get to the transport…maybe in the night? The apprentice could feel the pain in the thoughts…could sense the attempt to overcome it in the pauses.

I can't leave you Master, especially if they are trying to harm you. I have to help you.

Don't argue with me. As your master…I am directing you to…leave as soon as you can. Do not…come into this village. There was a pause then a weary thought. Do I make myself clear?

But before the padawan could argue the point, his mind was filled with a cry of pain. He leaped to his feet and hurried back to the pit entrance.

Obi-Wan easily found the light spilling into his dark world. First, he stopped and closed his eyes as he reached out to sense any presence. The apprentice had no way of being sure if they were still searching for him. However, he could feel nothing. Next he walked to the opening and looked up to judge the distance. It was probably about twenty meters. Easy. He focused and with a Force assisted leap, the padawan readily gained the opening.

He deliberately had not leaped out onto the ground, but grasped the edge instead. Although his senses told him there was no one nearby, he wanted to take the extra precaution of looking with his eyes also. Prudence seemed to be dictated by the circumstances.

The apprentice drew his head up and looked out. As his feelings had told him…nothing. He pulled himself out and onto the forest floor…and was reminded that his healing was not complete. Gingerly he got to his feet and looked around once more.

Getting his bearings from the sun position, the padawan began picking his way through the forest, quickly but carefully…and painfully.

Yalla and Hanar did indeed have a good place from inside a nearby building to watch the stoning. Yalla chuckled as he watched the Jedi's reaction to it. He knew how he must be struggling to stay connected with the Force while he was being pounded with the rocks. It was actually quite interesting. He had heard some from his mentor about the Jedi and how they use the Force, but Yalla had not been around a Jedi…except his mentor. He knew if he expected to take on the knights, it would be important to learn all he could about what they could withstand…and how quickly they were able to heal themselves. That was part of his experiment as well.

When the blue creature decided that the stoning had gone on long enough, he reached out to Zathar and touched his mind. He leader called out to his people as he raised his hands and they stopped at once. The silver haired man climbed the few stairs and walked over to the battered and bleeding Jedi.

"Will you answer me now? Will you confess your crime?"

Qui-Gon tried to keep an even tone as he answered…but his answer was breathy anyway. "I have told you the truth. I can tell you no more…because there is no more." He closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath. In an exhalation he proclaimed, "We train your children to be Jedi. We do not sell them."

Zathar lifted his hand and delivered a hard backhand to the Jedi's face. Qui-Gon's head rolled with the blow and he did not turn his head back, but left it in the position it came to rest in. His eyes were still closed. The lack of reaction angered the leader. He drew his hand back again…but hesitated. The crowd was anticipating the blow but did not hear the voice that Zathar alone heard in his head.

Wait! I have something more…interesting for you. Remember what I gave you?

The elder turned and walked toward the steps. The crowd cried out their disapproval. Zathar turned and faced the people with an angry look. They quieted down only to a lower level of complaints, but did not quiet completely. He was most unhappy. His people had never shown such defiance before. This stirring up had quite an effect on them. Zathar knew he had to have complete control…for Yalla as well as himself. He couldn't allow the blue skinned creature to think he was unable to command his own people.

"Would any of you like to come up here and join the Jedi? That will be the punishment of the next who defies me!" he declared. Now the people became almost silent…almost. Zathar turned back to the stairs to retrieve Yalla's…gift to him.

Meanwhile in the forest just behind the crowd, Obi-Wan was making his way through the dense growth. The interlocking branches of the closely spaced trees made a canopy that shut out most of the sun light. The apprentice was well hidden. He came as close as he dared without risking detection. That's when he saw his master…battered, bleeding, and chained before an angry mob. Fear threatened to well up inside him at the sight…but he bit it back. Obi-Wan had no idea yet how he would be able to help his master, but he knew he had to keep his head clear and his focus sharp to be able to think clearly. It was especially hard to hold back his anger…but he closed his eyes and breathed deeply, calling on the strength of the Force to chase it away.

Zathar returned to the platform. The crowd was silent now. They were anxious to know what their leader intended next. In his hand he carried a long cylindrical object. He walked over to the Jedi master.

"Since you continue to lie to us, we will continue to try to force the truth from you. You have a choice. You can tell me the truth…or you will suffer."

"I am telling you the truth. I swear it. We do no harm to your children," Qui-Gon said in a weary voice.

"No," the village leader agreed. "You do no harm. You allow others to do it." He pressed the end of the cylinder to Qui-Gon's chest and a shock passed into his body. Not prepared for it, the Jedi master's body recoiled and he cried out in pain. "If you continue to lie, you continue to be punished for your lies." He pressed the shocker to Qui-Gon's chest again. The Jedi tried to prepare himself, but he was unable to completely negate the energy entering his body. Again he jerked away and yelped in pain.

Yalla had prepared this torture device well. He knew how strong to make it to cause the Jedi to be unable to overcome it. Again, Zathar pressed it into the flesh. The cry of pain only served to fuel the hate of the crowd. They cried out even louder. "Make him confess! For our children's sake!" Anger filled the village leader and he began shocking Qui-Gon repetitively. Totally unable to fight it off or even relieve his suffering, there was little the Jedi could do but endure. His chest had red marks all over it. Sweat ran down his face and chest. Qui-Gon was virtually hanging from the manacles now as his strength and energy failed him in this physical assault.

In the nearby building Yalla laughed. "See Hanar. I told you it would not be a problem. There is no way the Jedi can escape. And now this…attack will weaken him and he will not be able to maintain a connection with the Force. It will be an interesting experiment. I've never had the chance to see how much a Jedi can endure. If I intend to take them on, I must know what they are capable of…or incapable of." The malicious grin was back quickly.

Zathar. Enough for the moment. Is there any word of the apprentice yet?

The village leader stepped away from the Jedi who was slumped forward now. The crowd cheered loudly.

"Do we have his apprentice yet?"

There was a buzz through the crowd for a minute or so. Finally one man stepped forward. "No. We have not found him yet." He bowed his head, waiting for rebuke.

Zathar stood for a moment. "Perhaps he would like to come and help his master. Maybe we should give him incentive to." He retired from the platform only momentarily. When he returned, another villager accompanied him. He was carrying a container. The village leader took a wooden splint and dug into the container. He brought out a lump of a dark colored substance, which he spread across Qui-Gon's chest. There was no immediate reaction but within seconds, the Jedi master cried out in pain.

Inside the building Hanar asked with great interest, "What is that?"

"Just a little concoction that I stumbled upon in my…investigations," Yalla chuckled. This chemical combination causes a nasty burn…and its consistency is so viscous that it will not run. So, it won't dribble away. He can not shake it off. It's there on his skin to stay unless it is washed away. And…as long as it's on him, it will continue to burn him until the reaction runs its course."

"Totally brilliant," the man said almost in awe of his boss.

"Thank you. I thought you might enjoy it."

The two turned to watch Zathar. He returned to the small plastic jar and scooped out a glob of the gelatinous mass, which he smeared across some of the marks left by the shocker.

Qui-Gon had drawn in a deep breath as the village leader prepared to deliver the chemical. He closed his eyes and reached out to the Force to strengthen him. Still, the pain seeped deep into his consciousness. He willed himself to see past the pain…looking only to the Force. However, he knew that the torture was stealing his strength. The more physically spent he became, the harder it would be to draw on the Force. Already he knew his link was weaker.

Also, he was expending part of his energy to close his link with Obi-Wan. He could feel his padawan reaching out to him, but he would not acknowledge it…would not allow anything to travel from him to Obi-Wan. If his apprentice knew what he was enduring, he would try to rescue his master. The Jedi did not yet know that Obi-Wan was just outside the village. The apprentice knew his master would worry about him if he knew his location. Obi-Wan couldn't afford to let Qui-Gon draw his focus away to him.

Qui-Gon had specifically told the padawan to stay away…but he knew Obi-Wan. The apprentice would come here no matter what he told him. He could do nothing to stop him, but he would do nothing to encourage him either. The Jedi master would do all he could to keep Obi-Wan from finding out what torture he was enduring. That effort would weaken also…but he intended to fight as long as he could. If there was anything he could do to keep his apprentice away, he would. And right now, this was all he could do.

Because they had closed themselves off so much from one another, neither of the Jedi realized they were only making the other suffer even more by withholding their true feelings and intentions.

"You see Hanar. Even just standing here and observing, it is easy to see how much energy he is expending to fight the pain Zathar is causing him. He is tiring and weakening. It requires energy and strength to stay connected to the Force. Worn down, he will not be able to link with it at all."

"Very interesting," Hanar replied. "It pays you well to know of the Force…and something of the Jedi." He turned in time to see the silver haired leader step forward to smear another glob of the chemical mixture across Qui-Gon's chest. This time the Jedi was unable to keep from crying out when the burn began.

Hanar was beginning to mimic Yalla's wicked grin very naturally now. "You mean you intend to keep this up the whole time he is our prisoner? If we let him rest, he will regain his strength, right?"

"If we let him rest he will begin to regain his strength. However, the first thing he would probably have to do is some self healing. That would take away energy, which he would need to build back up before he would be able to do anything else. Since we are not ready to kill him yet, all we need do is injure him enough to keep him at our mercy…and to drive his apprentice out. I dare say that he knows what his master is enduring. The worse it becomes, the harder he will find it to stay away. The apprentice will come to us. We will not have to chase him. By the end of this day, I intend to have that Jedi in such shape that he will admit anything…and his apprentice strung up next to him." The blue lips curled into that ugly smile. "We may even get to hear him beg for mercy…."

Zathar…do not waste any more time.

The man took the container from his assistance and began to freely spread the goo over a large part of Qui-Gon's exposed flesh.

The Jedi master could feel energy draining from his body. The Force was beginning to slip away from him. His hold on it was weakening. There is no death…there is the Force…

Jareel and Daven bowed to the holo image of Mace Windu. "You summoned us Master?"

"Yes. I know you are on a mission but it is a low priority one. It can be put aside for the moment. There is something more urgent…and you are the closest Jedi to it." Mace Windu replied in a somber tone. "Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan left on a mission to Jabbot to test some children there."

"He spoke to me of this Master."

The dark man took a deep breath. "We have not heard from them. They should have checked in to let us know their status. Our calls to them have gone unanswered. I am directing you and Daven to Jabbot to determine what their status is…why we have not heard from them. You will leave for Jabbot at once."

Jareel had felt his stomach tighten with Windu's words. He feared for his best friend. The blonde Jedi could sense Daven's unease at Obi-Wan's fate as well. In a calm but firm voice he replied, "Yes Master Windu. We leave at once to find them."

Tersely Windu said, "May the Force be with you." Then the image faded away.

Obi-Wan watched in horror at what was being done to his master. As Qui-Gon's strength faded, his ability to shield his thoughts followed. Now the apprentice could feel the pain along their link. Earlier he had desperately wanted to link with his master, now he had to shut it out. It was too distracting. He had to focus…focus. He closed his eyes to the sight before him. Think Obi-Wan. This is no time to be over come by circumstances. You must concentrate. For now, that is just a body there. You can't think of it as Master Qui-Gon.

What could he do to help? He couldn't just rush in…unarmed. That would be foolhardy. What could he accomplish against such a crowd? Was that part of the reason for doing this so openly…to draw him in? The apprentice wondered how long this would go on. What would they do at night? ? And…would they be waiting for him if he did try something? Would guards be posted? Could his master endure that long? There seemed to be little choice right now. He could do nothing…but wait…

A large part of Qui-Gon's torso was red and raw. He leaned back against the pole and tried to ease his pain as best he could with his remaining but slipping link with the Force. The pain was great and had lasted long. Yet, it had been so long that the Jedi master could almost ignore it. Almost. It seemed as if his body had been in agony for so long that it was becoming used to the feeling. He was almost numbed to the pain. Qui-Gon knew better than that however. It may seem to one part of his body that the pain was diminishing, but to his mind…he could feel the weariness and his hold on the Force sliding away from him. That made the pain more real. He knew that's what was taking his strength from him.

Focus. You must focus. It is hard now…but as long as I have any energy left, I will reach for the Force. My strength, my source. There is no death…there is the Force. Even if I can not escape, it is still my wellspring…the thing that makes me who I am, what I am. It will deliver me…or take me.

And…just as if he knew what was happening, Yalla spoke to Zathar. I think he's had enough of that. He may be able to get used to it. We should wash this off…so we can move on.

The leader was still as he listened to the voice. Then he said but one word. "Water." Men standing nearby the platform at once began moving.

The Jedi master almost sobbed with the knowledge that relief was on the way. He welcomed the water…could hardly wait for it. He hoped it was from their coldest stream.

A line of men ascended the steps carrying tubs of water between them. The first group stopped just before Qui-Gon and waited.

Inside the building Yalla grinned. "Watch this."

The village leader gave a single nod.

Qui-Gon was prepared for relief. He got more agony instead. The water had been heated. It was not boiling hot…but hot enough to aggravate the damage to the Jedi's skin. He cried out in pain. Several other men waited. He knew it wouldn't be over until the last group had dumped their load on his battered body. He closed his eyes. Better not to know when it was coming than anticipate it.

Dr. Yalla chuckled through his twisted blue lips. He was enjoying this immensely. This was almost as much fun as vivisection…his method of vivisection that is. It had been a long time since he had sunk a knife into living tissue…unanesthetized living tissue that is. When he was a student, the first time he had cut into a specimen for dissection he had almost become ill. The other students had teased him unmercifully about it. His angry and paranoid attitude, developed over many years, reacted almost violently to it.

Yalla swore he would never allow anything like that to bother him again. He spent extra time in the lab cutting into anything he could just to overcome his aversion. Then it became almost a game. He began cutting into creatures that weren't usually used in the lab. Then his fellow students were the ones who were shocked. Pet type animals were his favorite because they elicited the strongest response. His hardened heart could cut into any nonmoving tissue without hesitation. It was a small step from there to first abusing live animals. It was fun to see them squirm and fight for their life…a life he could so easily take at the mere slash of a knife.

This is what led Yalla into research rather than into practicing medicine. He would rather experiment on creatures than help them. That served him well in his new occupation as leader of a group that had the lofty dream of taking control of the Republic. The blue creature was not foolish enough to think he could do it suddenly and completely. That form of government was too firmly established in the far corners of the galaxy. He knew it would have to be a quiet revolution, a secret infiltration. That is why he was so busy recruiting followers behind the scenes.

And…that is why he desired to make his followers think of the Jedi as their enemies. Also why he wanted to know what a Jedi could stand up to. As a researcher, he understood the importance of complete data before acting. This whole scenario was part of that. The experiment to see just how well he could control people…how far could he get them to go outside their normal moral limits. Could he really engender such hate against the strong yet gentle guardians of the galaxy? So many creatures looked on the Jedi as friend and protector. Would he really be able to turn beings against them? And the final goal of this experiment…what would it take to destroy those wielders of the Force?

He chuckled deep in his throat as he noticed Qui-Gon's body go limp. The powerful Jedi were not as almighty as they liked to think were they?

Zathar, enough for the moment. I'm in need of refreshment…and I wouldn't want to miss anything. You are doing a wonderful job. I knew you were wise enough to be able to see through the lies and do this job that needs to be done to the lying Jedi.

The leader raised a hand. "Enough! I will return. You will do nothing without my direction. Guard him well…or lose your lives."

Relief washed over Qui-Gon as he understood the torture was to be stopped…for the moment. But perhaps that would give him enough time to strengthen himself…even a little. He called up the remaining energy his abused body had left and reached out to the Force. More than anything else right now, he desperately needed to tap into the healing power available to him. Behind his mental shields, because he didn't want Obi-Wan to know what he was feeling, Qui-Gon thought Padawan, please stay away. You can not help. You would only risk yourself.

Obi-Wan was glad it was late in the day. It made it easier for him to hide in the already dark forest. He was making his way to the transport they had arrived in. The apprentice thought to contact the temple about the situation here. He was not surprised when he arrived to find it guarded. That's what he had expected. Still, it was a chance he had to take. If there was a way to let the Jedi temple know they were in trouble and needed help…then that was his first duty. He may yet have to come back and try to call for help…but it may take time to arrive. So before he took the chance of trying to get into the transport…and make his whereabouts known, risking capture, he wanted to have a closer look at the village.

That was his next objective. The padawan slipped back into the dark treed area and made a turn toward the settlement. On his trek, he had not encountered any villagers yet. They must have extended their search for him into other areas. He wasn't foolish enough to think they had given up looking for him. He could just make out a building at the outskirts of the settlement through the trees. Now he would have to be even more careful. His first idea was to get close enough to determine what kind of sentry had been set over the village…how many and how they were armed.

"What will killing two Jedi do for us?" Zathar asked.

"That will be two less Jedi to fight," Yalla said somewhat in irritation.

"It will take a long time to kill them all if we kill them two at a time."

The blue creature turned to face the village leader squarely. In a firm but controlled tone he asked, "Do you have a better idea? Do you remember what I told you the Jedi could do to you? What I showed you they could do? Something that you can't fight by yourself." Yalla's eyes bored into the leader. It was his intent to lead him along, make him think he was the one in charge. However, when the leader exerted himself too much, Yalla had to give him a small demonstration…a small one…just enough to let him know there was a power available that he knew nothing of…and could not control.

The blue miscreant hid behind the Jedi even then. The couple or so times, he'd had to take stronger action against Zathar, Yalla told him that was what he had learned from the Jedi. That is what they make people into. The mad researcher claimed he didn't want to hurt the village leader…but the Jedi had forced him into learning their ways. Now he reacted by instinct sometimes…an instinct he couldn't always control. And the simple village leader believed the lie. Zathar actually believed that Yalla only did these things because of the training he was coerced to undergo at the Jedi's hands.

Zathar's eyes went wide as he felt the tightening around his throat…and remembered last time it had happened. At once, he was sorry that he spoke up. It had been long enough since he had experienced the demonstration of the Force that the leader had forgotten, not the lessons, but how Yalla was still under the control of the Jedi. The other reason the blue creature so desired to get rid of them…so they no longer could control him.

"S…sorry," he gasped out.

Yalla didn't increase the constriction but merely held a small amount of pressure on the leader's throat…and he put on a great show of fighting against what he was doing to his "friend". When the evil blue being was certain he had made his point, he released Zathar. The man fell against a chair and put a hand to his throat.

Yalla seemed distressed. "Are you all right? I told you. It happens almost beyond my control. Please…don't force me to do this to you. But…now you know what the Jedi can do…but they can do more. That is why we must fight them together. For your children first…and for the sake of those they have brainwashed. You can see what they have done to me."

In a hoarse voice, Zathar mumbled, "It is a terrible thing they do. Abuse children and adults as well. We must stop them. I must release you from their control."

Hanar put a hand to his mouth to cover up the smile he wasn't sure he could keep back…and watched in awe at his boss' genius. The man couldn't believe that Zathar actually accepted this! However, Yalla had told him the village was somewhat backward. Apparently it was even more backward than Yalla had led him to believe.

"Please sit down," the blue creature rose and helped the village elder into a chair. "I am touched that you wish to help me as well as your own children. You are kind as well as wise. We will work together to overcome this evil."

Obi-Wan stationed himself as close to the village as he thought he safely could without being seen. He felt helpless sitting here like this while he knew the pain his master was enduring. For no matter how hard Qui-Gon tried, in his weakened state, he couldn't completely shield himself from his apprentice. Obi-Wan was shocked, sickened and angry about what he felt along their link. There certainly was no way he would stay away from the village now. The padawan had no idea how he was going to be able to help his master, but he had to try.

He had his light saber and he could use the Force…but against such a large group…he had already seen the results of that. The padawan knew there had to be something he could do. Qui-Gon was fond of saying that he was certain a solution would present itself. Obi-Wan certainly hoped that was the case here. He needed a way to hold the villagers off long enough to free Qui-Gon. He bit back the frustration that threatened to cloud his thinking. Helpless. Nothing he could do. But there had to be something. Obi-Wan refused to accept defeat. He had to try something before he just simply gave up.

Going boldly into the village would be foolish. His only hope lay in ambush…surprise them. That meant sitting here like this…and waiting. Waiting while he knew what his master was enduring. Yet, to act foolishly or too soon could mean Obi-Wan's capture. Then he could help neither Qui-Gon nor himself. He reached out to the Force to calm himself. Patience had never been a strong point for him anyway…and knowing his master was in danger….

There was movement near one of the buildings. Obi-Wan stared intently trying to see though the fading daylight. He saw a tall creature and a human walking with the village leader behind them…but that's all he could make out of them. No details. The group moved away from the smaller building they had exited and started toward a building near the raised platform.

And…who was this creature? He obviously wasn't one of the villagers. Even though Obi-Wan couldn't see details, he could tell the tall thin creature was very different.

The man with him although more like the villagers still seemed somewhat different from them. Were they the ones behind whatever was going on here? Obi-Wan considered for a moment. Yoda, Jareel, Qui-Gon…even himself, all had only good things to say about Jabbot and their visits here. A loyal friend to the Republic, Qui-Gon had said. Why the sudden change? It made sense from that viewpoint to think that someone outside Jabbot might be behind the attack on them. The village leader was walking behind the other two…behind…in a subservient role. The tall one and the human must have Zathar under their control. Now it made a little more sense…a little more. He still didn't know the reason behind the attack.

So…he would watch their movements. Obi-Wan changed positions to stave off the cramps that kept visiting him because of trying to stay concealed in a confined spot.

He was waiting…waiting. He decided his best chance of taking the first step in his half-formed plan would be to wait until the village was asleep. The apprentice was not happy with that idea…but at least the torture had stopped…for the moment.

"Well, well," Yalla said as he ascended the platform and looked at the semiconscious Jedi. "It seems we have done our job well Hanar. He hasn't recovered much in the time we have been gone. And you thought my plan not a good one. We must know more if we are to be successful in our fight. Hanar, you have much to learn of the impact of pain on a body. Sustained intense pain is quite exhausting…even to a Jedi," he grinned. "And an exhausted Jedi finds it hard to collect the Force to himself. That is why I am so interested in pain. This experiment is furthering my knowledge quite a bit." He paused and put a hand to his chin to think.

The blue creature lifted Qui-Gon's chin to look into his face. "The great Jedi! You dare to come here…after what those others did on Charon! I had the perfect setup. Things were just beginning to fall into place on my research…and then they came and I had to leave it all behind." Sudden anger and hate filled the being and he drew on his Force powers. He jerked his hand away from the Jedi's chin and his head flopped down. Qui-Gon began to make gagging and choking noises. Just as suddenly, Yalla seemed to come to himself and stopped.

Hanar watched with interest. "So…you are going to continue now? Will you kill him tonight?

"I've just reconsidered that idea Hanar. Perhaps it's premature to kill him just now. I am learning even more than I thought from him. I already knew that if I intend to take on the Jedi, this knowledge is important. Maybe I should learn a little more of his abilities before I kill him. I must know how far he can be pushed and still be able to recover. It may not always be easy to simply kill a Jedi. How much must I hurt one before he is unable to recover? These are important things to learn before we continue with our plans."

The human was suddenly uncomfortable. He had the idea that Yalla was going to attempt something that might put them at risk. "What are you thinking?" he said almost in a whisper.

"I don't know enough about how resilient the Jedi are. Yes, I have been around Force users since I've started my…campaign. However, I have had little contact with trained Jedi. I must know more of them and how they use the Force to deal with things like this."

Hanar didn't like what he was hearing. "You don't mean you are going to allow him to heal himself, do you?"

"Hanar, Hanar," Yalla said with a smile…but with venom in his voice. "I had thought we settled your trust in me…and acceptance of my leadership a long time ago. Do you question my judgement?"

The man backed away and shook his head vigorously. "No! No! I don't question you at all." He remembered the last time that his boss had taken his anger out on him. Hanar wasn't sure he was going to survive the experience…and it had taken him awhile to recover from it. He didn't know if his next infraction would bring him even closer to death.

The blue creature's dark eyes seemed to burn with hate. He didn't break eye contact with his underling. Hanar looked down and refused to face the fanatical researcher intent on carrying out his "experiment".

Yalla nodded slowly. Back in his place. Then he turned to Zathar. "We will do no more tonight. I want to see how much the Jedi can heal himself over night. You will keep reliable armed men here. He must not escape. This village will be made to pay if he gets away. I know you will choose your best warriors to watch over him." He turned and walked back to his hiding place in the building. Slowly his assistant followed at a discreet distance.

Zathar turned to one of his men. "Get fresh guards. No one must fall asleep tonight. The Jedi must not escape."

Qui-Gon was only vaguely aware of what was going on. He knew that some creature was there, looking at him…tall and blue. Then suddenly he had felt the pain in his throat and was having trouble drawing in a breath…yet he could feel no one touching him. That should mean something but he couldn't quite put it together. Between the dark and his exhausted and pained state, he was not aware of much. However, he was aware enough to understand he would have to endure no more torture that night. His relief was so great he thought he would loose control of his emotions. Pain throbbed through the upper part of his body. Between that and his fatigue, it was all he could do to lean enough weight against the pole to keep from hanging from the shackles about his wrist. The metal had dug into his wrists adding to his misery. How could he endure this all night long? He was so very tired…. Somewhere in his hazy state, the Jedi master still knew he needed to seek out the Force…but it was too much to do right now. The sudden realization came to him that he was giving in…giving up. As long as there was life in his body he would not give up…could not give up. Qui-Gon drew in a deep breath and reached oh so feebly out to the energy field that he knew wasn't so far away from him.

The touch was tenuous at best, but it was there. As long as he could still make that connection, he knew that's where his only strength would be. Yet even through the weak link, he could feel energy flow to him. It was tiring him further to maintain that bond, but it was all he had left now. Even if what came to him from the Force was only enough strength to maintain the bond then that was good enough. It was better than nothing…and without the Force, he was nothing. Healing would come…but he wasn't sure when. Would he be able to recover much before morning? Right now, he was so weak, tired and sick from the pain that it seemed unlikely he could hold onto the Force long enough to help any at all. Yet, there was the Force. He had to rely on it. It was all he had left. Qui-Gon remembered telling Obi-Wan once that when you come to the end of yourself…there is still the Force. Now he would learn if he could live up to what he taught….

Qui-Gon felt like his thoughts were tumbling out of control. Pushed here and there by the waves of pain that rocked his body. He couldn't focus his mind. There was something important, something he should realize…but he couldn't put it together. All he knew was pain and exhaustion. He tried to focus, to push the confusion away and pull closer to that weak, quavering connection with his only source.

Concentrate. Have to. So tired…can't. Everything's…hazy. Who was that talking? Should know. But…can't think right now. Have to focus…focus. Not on the pain. Look beyond it. Please…come to me…the Force. The Force. Need it…need it. Obi-Wan…. Stay away…stay away.

But the apprentice had shut himself off from his master. It hurt to do it…but it was a distraction. He had enough distractions fighting his anger and shock at what was happening to Qui-Gon. The padawan knew he couldn't allow more. He had to keep his mind clear…to focus…to focus.

It was completely dark now. In the dim light of the village, the apprentice had seen the tall creature and his companion leave the platform and go to another building. He assumed they were going to bed. The village was much quieter now. Of course, when the torture had stopped, it had quieted much then. The apprentice had been watching for guards patrolling but had seen none. That truly surprised him. Why were they not being more cautious with a Jedi on the loose? Or maybe they were being cautious…just not openly. Maybe they were lying in wait for him to make a move.

Should he continue to just sit here and wait…with no idea how long he could be waiting? And…no idea if the wait would serve his purpose. If he were going to try something, the best time would be in the middle of the night when most people would be asleep. He had to start making plans now…if that's what he decided he should do. Should he? Where to start?

Obi-Wan still didn't know how for certain how Qui-Gon had been captured. He had speculated on it. The huge crowd that overwhelmed them must have simply been too much. He did understand why his master was unable to escape. When the Jedi had finally been overtaken by his pain, he had dropped the guard over his thoughts and his link with Obi-Wan. He simply hadn't the energy to keep it up. The apprentice knew only what his master knew…something other than the lock was holding the manacle closed…something he was unable to open.

Obi-Wan's small spark of a plan was still only that. He had some vague notion of something he could try…and hoped it would grow and begin to make more sense as he thought on it. But that had not happened yet. He refused to allow himself to be discouraged by that though. There was still that little spark. As long as he had a direction to follow…he would begin to look at it and study it further. But…that spark required him to take action soon. He needed to get into one of the buildings. There was something he needed. So, should he approach one of the smaller buildings and hope to overpower someone there while they were asleep? Could he do it without alerting others? If he happened to choose a building that was filled, would there be too many villagers there to overcome? The apprentice looked at the edge of the settlement. He decided to circle around and see if maybe he could see a small dwelling near the edge. Certainly, there had to be at least one bachelor or old maid living by themselves. He just hoped one of them would be near the outskirts.

Qui-Gon had fallen into the bliss of unconsciousness. It was not anything he had gained from his link with the Force however. No, he had not been able to achieve that much. He had not even been able to pull himself out of the agony that wracked his body. So, with that much pain, how was he able to fall into sleep? Pure exhaustion. Yalla was completely correct about how much pain drains the body. The thing that had finally dragged the Jedi master's body down enough to fatigue it and prevent him from healing himself was the chemical compound that Yalla and Hanar had taken so much joy in seeing Zathar smear all over Qui-Gon's torso. His skin was raw from the burns it left. Such a large portion of his body was covered that it had taken a huge toll on him. The hot bath that followed only served to renew the agony. The one good thing that had come from it was that the fatigue had driven Qui-Gon into unconsciousness.

Obi-Wan had done as much of a reconnaissance on the village as he was able to, while he began to chase plans in his mind. He had no idea how late in the night it was. But he had watched activity die down slowly. Lights went out, the people settled in for the night…and yet he waited. It seemed to the apprentice that he would only have one chance at this. If he failed he would either be captured…or it he did manage to get away, he was certain the village would then be so heavily guarded that he would never get in alone.

When he guessed it must be passed midnight, the padawan readied himself. This was probably not one of his best ideas…yet what else could he do? He began edging slowly toward the nearest dwelling. Hunching low as he tried to hurry, Obi-Wan would stop often and drop to the ground to look and listen and feel. It was going too smoothly. Certainly they had not left themselves this open. He made it to the structure without alerting anyone…apparently. The apprentice reminded himself he really had no idea what was going on around him in the other buildings.

Obi-Wan looked in a window. A man and woman were sound asleep. As quietly as he could, the apprentice opened the window. He paused to see if either inhabitant would move. Nothing…only soft snoring sounds. The padawan climbed into the window. Calling on the Force, he willed them into a deeper state of unconsciousness, hoping that would keep him from waking them. He looked around the bedroom. A blaster lay on the nightstand. Exactly what he had hoped for. He grabbed it and then walked quietly to the bedroom door. Exiting to the hallway, he was sure to close the door behind him…another barrier to any sounds he might make.

As quickly but quietly as he could, Obi-Wan looked around for any other weapons…or anything that he thought might be useful to him. He found another blaster. No other arms were immediately visible. He grabbed some fruit and food containers, which he stuffed into pockets. It was time to be gone. He had been here too long for his comfort. Every second brought him closer to detection.

Not willing to tempt fate, Obi-Wan chose to exit a different way rather than go back through the bedroom even though that was the window that faced away from the village. It was a chance he was willing to take. Waking the couple gave him an immediate enemy to fight. Being caught by a guard while sneaking out meant more separation from his enemy, more chance to escape.

The apprentice slowly lifted a window. It screeched a little. He stopped all movement and listened. After a long, long minute, it seemed no one was going to come. Obi-Wan pulled slightly on the window and it made the same noise.

"Oh Force," he swore and just continued pulling. As soon as the opening was big enough, he was out and away. He felt there was little to fear from the couple…in the way of attack anyway. He had their weapons. He was more concerned of any sentry who may spot him. Yet, no one yelled or fired. Had he really gotten away? Only for the moment. He was certain he had awakened someone in the house. They would report him. His plans seemed to be melting before his eyes. As soon as Obi-Wan entered the forest, he kept going. It was too dangerous to stay nearby. He could not afford to be taken. And yet, he had probably condemned his master to another day of suffering because of his failure. He had to let that thought go. It would steal his focus. He had to be centered if he were going to come up with a new idea. But…at least he had a weapon now.

A bucket of icy cold water was Qui-Gon's wake up call. He drew in a quick sharp breath as his eyes sprang open. In his unconscious state, he was left hanging from the manacles. Slowly he got his feet under him and stood, groaning at the movement of cold hard metal against his bloody wrists.

"You will wake up now," Zathar said to him. "No more sleep for you." To the guards he said, "You will make sure he does not sleep." Then he turned to go.

"Wait," Qui-Gon called out in hoarse voice and through dry cracked lips. "Can I talk with you? I tell you the truth. We have never sold children for any reason…especially slavery. How can I get you to believe me?"

Without looking back, Zathar said, "You can not because you lie. I will not listen to you."

"Then why are you doing this? If you are trying to get me to confess…how can I confess anything if you won't believe what I tell you?"

The leader stopped walking but said nothing. Then just as suddenly, he started moving again and walked down the stairs. Qui-Gon started to say something else but stopped. What point would there be? He just tried to remain as impassive as he could. At least he did not feel as fatigued as last night, although he was far from feeling restored either. At least now, he could perhaps connect with the Force more easily. And…he knew it was imperative to do so quickly…to gain as much benefit as he was able. The knight suspected his abuse was not over. He didn't know why it had stopped…unless they had something else in mind for him after this was over. They didn't seem in a hurry to kill him.

Zathar said they had a Jedi for a trial now. Is there really going to be one…or is this it? None of this makes sense! Who has him so strongly convinced that the Jedi are selling children? So convinced that he will listen to no one else. What will they do next? Is there a purpose to this torture…or is it for their entertainment? How much more can I stand? Not much I'm afraid. I haven't been able to effect any healing. Look at my skin…still raw and red. Whatever they do next…will be on that. Will I be able to stand it? I have the Force, but when they exhaust me…I can't maintain that connection. I can't rely on the Force to help me. I have to rely on me…

And what of Obi-Wan? Where is he? I suppose they don't have him yet. I think I would probably know if they did. He'd probably be right here next to me…chained to that other pole. I know he must be nearby. I know him. He will not leave. Obi-Wan…Obi-Wan…stay away. It's too dangerous. You can't hope to take on an entire village alone. Two of us couldn't. Stay away…stay away….

Inside the nearby building Yalla chucked. "He looks terrible, doesn't he?" Yalla stood at the window with long blue arms folded over his chest. "Where is this famous Jedi healing power I've heard of? It doesn't seem to have helped him at all. Of course, if we were successful in our attempt to weaken him enough…it makes sense that he could not maintain a link with the Force." After a moment's consideration he said, "I suspect that he is now trying to heal himself after a good night's sleep. Very well. We will allow it…for awhile."

Hanar didn't like the sound of that…allowing the Jedi to heal himself. If Yalla had little contact with Jedi, Hanar had less. He had even less of an idea than the blue villain did about what they were able to do. Then he dared to question Yalla. With a tremor in his voice he asked, "Are you sure it's wise to let him do that?" The man wasn't sure if the quaver came more from fear of the Jedi…or fear of questioning the blue being. Both of those prospects were frightening to him.

The fanatical researcher twirled to face Hanar. A look of pure hate made his face color a darker shade of blue. Through clenched teeth, he hissed out. "I thought we had settled this issue. Not the one of the Jedi. The one of questioning my decisions. I suppose you need a reminder…one that I grow tired of giving. It will be my last to you."

While he had been snarling out his threat, the human had been slowly backing away, raising his hands in surrender. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to. Please Yalla. Please. I don't need a reminder. I won't…"

The rest of his plea was cut short as his body was lifted and thrown against the wall. Hanar slid down to the ground. Then he cried out in pain…only once. After that he rolled around on the floor, clutching his throat. That did not last long however. The edges of his vision began to darken and he fell into oblivion.

The tall blue Yalla stood and looked down at his assistant. Perhaps it was time for a new one. He would see… Then he turned and walked away.

Obi-Wan had retreated to his cave and slept for a couple of hours. He made his breakfast from the filched food. Now he needed to think of a new plan. The apprentice knew he had to assume that the theft had been discovered. Under the circumstances, blasters would probably be kept close…like the one he'd found in the bedroom. When the occupants of the house he invaded were unable to find their weapons…. To Obi-Wan's way of thinking there was only one answer the villagers would come up with to answer who took the blasters.

So, they would know he was in the area…and that he had come while everyone was asleep. They would be expecting him to attempt the same time, most likely. Ah…but what if he didn't? What if he struck in day light…before their eyes? Yes, it sounded like a crazy idea…yet he would absolutely have the element of surprise on his side. But how could he hold off an entire village? Was there some way he could get them to bring Qui-Gon out of the village to him instead of having to go into the settlement…where he would be surrounded. A crazy idea. But…maybe a crazy idea might be his best way of succeeding. Doing something completely unexpected might confuse them enough that he may actually be able to succeed!

Yalla had spent his morning in talking with Zathar and making plans. He contacted his base on Answar to see how things were proceeding there. The creature even found some time to relax and read. He was quite cocky about his ability to succeed in what he was doing. Every thing he did now was slow and relaxed. A couple of reports had been brought to him about the Jedi. The miscreant was still confident that Qui-Gon was healing too slowly to be a threat to him. He did not, however, bother to ask after Hanar. In fact, he had forgotten about him completely. It was not until he went to have his lunch that he happened to catch sight of the human, trying to take cover from him.

"Hanar!" The man froze. He didn't dare look Yalla in the face. "Come with me."

Yalla sat to eat. Hanar stood away from the table, still looking down.

"Sit." He waited for the man to comply. "Eat. You need your strength if you expect to be of any help to me." Hanar couldn't stop himself from looking up now. Had he heard correctly? "Well…are you going to do as I ask…or do we have to have another…discussion?"

He sat down immediately.

Yalla chuckled deep in his throat. "I really should just do away with you. I haven't been quite that angry in a long time. And it's not the first warning you have received. However…I don't have the time right now to break in a new assistant. It is hard to find someone loyal, yet broken enough to do my bidding. Perhaps you are even more broken now. As soon as we return to Answar, I will not tolerate any more reservation. There are many there who will unquestioningly do as I say. Am I clear?"

"Yes Dr. Yalla," the voice was just above a whisper.

"Very well." He watched the crushed man for a moment. "Relax. Eat. We have a busy afternoon ahead of us. I do hope you will lighten your mood. I want to enjoy our…playtime this afternoon. Don't spoil it for me."

Hanar began to eat and forced a small smile. He was afraid not to comply with the smallest of commands now.

The wives of the men who were standing guard over Qui-Gon brought lunch to their husbands. Naturally, there was nothing for the Jedi. He had neither food nor water since he'd been taken prisoner. His stomach protested that fact…especially when savory aromas began to fill the air. However, that was not at the top of Qui-Gon's priority list at the moment. Surviving was. He shut out his surroundings and drew the Force around him. He was feeling more rested and stronger now. He was far from being healed though. Even with the accelerated healing the Force could bring it could not bring instantaneous healing. Skin still took a finite time to mend itself…and his was still red and raw.

The appearance of Zathar interrupted Qui-Gon's meditation. The Jedi refused to acknowledge the anger that was threatening to build up in him. The leader may have power over his physical self right now…but he would not allow him to have power over his soul or spirit. That still belonged to him exclusively and he vowed to commit it to the Force…no matter how shattered he may become…no matter how tenuous his connection with the Force became. There is no death…there is the Force…

"We have heard of Jedi healing power. You don't seem different. Is this another of your lies? The Jedi can not heal themselves. You expect me to believe you about the children…yet you lie about everything."

Qui-Gon looked straight ahead, shutting out Zathar. He accepted it would do no good to argue with him. Instead he shifted his attention and focus to the Force.

Inside the building Yalla observed. He was using Zathar as his instrument right now. "Well…interesting," Yalla said as he came closer to the window. "He seems to have more energy. I can feel it coming from him and radiating at Zathar. "Yet…his body still looks in sad shape. Hmm…not so accelerated healing after all. Or is it because he had to restore himself inside before he can begin on the outside? This is most interesting to me. I've never used that part of the Force before. That part of the training my mentor neglected. I suppose he thought there were other things that were more important."

And…the evil blue being suspected he knew what was going on, as Qui-Gon stood tall and straight and seemed to ignore Zathar. He touched the leader's mind and gave him a thought. The silver haired man took an elbow and rammed it into the Jedi master's abdomen with all his might. Qui-Gon yelped out in pain from the blow. The punch hurt of course…but also, the impact against his raw flesh was painful. The nefarious scientist was well aware that the blow would have two effects. That was the reason for his action.

Yalla turned to Hanar. "There are so many effective ways to hurt someone. I hadn't really wanted to sink to something so…common as what is about to take place…but it is a most effective…treatment," the lips curled in a sneer.

The human moved to the window so he could see what Yalla was talking about. One of the villagers came on the platform at Zathar's bidding. The leader quietly said, "Turn him. Then you may begin."

The villager stepped up to the Jedi master and put a hand on each side, causing Qui-Gon to wince involuntarily. He twisted the Jedi's body around so that he faced the pole. His arms crossed above his head, pulling his wrists against the metal bracelets. Qui-Gon drew in a deep breath and forced himself to focus…to look beyond the pain. Perhaps it would be good not to see what they were going to do to him. He closed his eyes to help shut out his surroundings. Then he felt a hand on his back, which shoved him against the cold metal pole. He yelped in pain as his irritated flesh smacked against the post. Yet, he did not move away from it…better to stay there than be slammed against it again. Just as he began to draw in another deep breath, a sudden sharp sound broke the silence and Qui-Gon felt a burning pain on his back. Not being prepared for it, he couldn't stop the cry that escaped his mouth.

"Very good," Zathar said. "Continue." The he stepped back. The villagers began gathering again as activity had started on the platform. The first crack of the whip had brought cheers from the crowd, which increased in volume at the cry of pain. Now they were beginning to get stirred back up again as the leader stepped aside for the new round of torture to begin.

The man drew the lash back and snapped it forward again, popping the bare back. Qui-Gon had tried to ready himself. He did not cry out this time…but the pain was intense from the multiple ends of the braided thong. With every fiber of his being The Jedi reached out to the Force…to make himself as much a part of it as he could.

Hanar quickly looked over to Yalla to see his reaction to the lack of reaction by Qui-Gon. The blue face was impassive. The man who brandished the whip was disappointed that he had not been able to elicit another cry. He swung the lash with more strength this time. There was still no sound from the Jedi…although a slight flinch was noted. Now that the punisher had gotten a reaction, he began to attack his task with vigor…landing stroke upon stroke. The muscular back showed angry red welts streaming blood.

Qui-Gon rested his forehead on the cool metal and tried to concentrate. It was becoming harder. The pain added to the pain he already had and it all threatened to steal his focus. He was fighting for control. He could feel the sweat beginning to trail down his torso and back. The salt in the fluid aggravating his wounds. And still the lashing continued. The friction of the metal post against his irritated flesh didn't seem to matter to the Jedi anymore. The pain on his back was the greater…and that's where his attention was. Still he tried to hold his link with the Force…his strength. Yet, it was being stolen from him as he weakened under the abuse. Just when the Jedi master thought he was about to collapse and lose all connection with his source, Zathar called out what the voice in his head said, "Enough!"

From their observation post Hanar looked in surprise at the blue being. He wondered why the beating had been stopped. However, Yalla only grinned his malicious smile. "I think that perhaps we ought to turn him back around now Zathar," he said aloud as he also transmitted the thought to the village leader. The man with the whip complied at once. He made sure he grasped the Jedi in such a way to aggravate his wounds. Qui-Gon groaned…and his abuser smiled.

Zathar was becoming little more than a funnel for Yalla's actions and thoughts. Yet, he didn't realize it. He thought his actions were his own. He came to stand close to the Jedi master. Qui-Gon tried to ignore the evil face as he struggled for strength from the Force. The leader put both hands on the Jedi's chest and shoved him hard against the hard cold metal. The impact on the soundly beaten back was too much and Qui-Gon cried out.

Well done Zathar. Now…I think another application of our little…chemical bath is in order. Do you have it? Like a child trying hard to please a demanding parent, Zathar hurried off the platform to gather the container.

Remembering the pain from yesterday…and already in great pain, Qui-Gon could feel his stomach turn over and he was almost sick. But…he was a Jedi. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. His waning strength he turned to the Force. It was all he had…all he had.

Qui-Gon felt the cold gel on his chest, which quickly turned hot as it began to burn. In spite of himself he let out a great groan. It was becoming harder and harder to fight this. He found himself wishing for the moment that Zathar would finally kill him…at least the suffering would be at an end.

As the silver haired man began liberally applying the gel, a sudden loud noise sounded from nearby.

"What is that!" Yalla demanded of Hanar. "Find out what is going on."

Zathar yelled for his men to ready themselves. At the thought that it could be an attack, the Jedi was completely forgotten, much to his great relief.

Yalla was in the middle of his hideaway and Hanar stood just inside the door, looking out. There was yelling and another loud noise. "What is it! What is going on?"

Outside the villagers were abandoning the platform and gathering near the big building for shelter while they looked around wildly to see where the noise came from. Then standing atop a small hill just outside the village Obi-Wan stood up and called out to them, light saber in hand. At once, every blaster turned on him.

Wait! Yalla told Zathar. Let's not kill him too quickly. This could be great fun for us. We know where he is. He can not escape us now. Let's see what he wants.

"You will bring the Jedi out now!" Obi-Wan yelled.

The blue creature laughed heartily. "This is most amusing."

Zathar called out "And do you intend to make us give him up by yourself?"

"I'm not alone. You are surrounded!"

The village leader paused. Then he laughed. "Don't be ridiculous. There have been patrols. No other ships have been spotted. You can't have called anyone. You are alone."

At that moment, the sound of blaster fire came from opposite the Jedi apprentice…and then from closer to him. All the villagers dropped down. Zathar looked toward the sound, but stood his ground, his strength coming from the evil blue creature.

Inside the building Yalla paused. He sensed something.

"Does that help convince you?" Obi-Wan asked.

"No! I still think you are alone. Even if you are not, how can one other person help you against an entire village?"

The padawan merely smiled. The sounds of blasters erupted from all around the village. The men fired back at the unseen enemies…but they were mumbling among themselves as well. The settlement was completely surrounded. They were trapped! What if there were too many for them to fight off? Then what?

The fire broke off. "Now are you convinced?" the apprentice asked.

Zathar had been standing, but that last round of fire finally brought him down with his people on the ground.

But…nearby in his observation post. Yalla had been watching the attack. He had been looking around…thinking…feeling. Zathar, he's tricked you! There's no one there but him. He's playing games with your mind. It's the power that I told you about. There's no one there but him!

Zathar slowly stood and called out toward the small building. "Are you certain?"

"How dare you question me?"

At that moment, from the side of the village opposite Obi-Wan, a blaster sounded and the shot hit the ground at Zathar's feet. The leader dove to the ground. "He did not fire that shot! It came from over there! He is not alone and he is not playing tricks!"

Obi-Wan tried not to smile. He had set up one of the blasters over there and just now activated it with the Force. The second one was set up about half way around the village from him. The apprentice knew that real blaster fire from a source other than him would be necessary to carry off his deception.

The tall blue creature was quickly losing his temper. He yelled…and thought there is no one else there I tell you! It's a trick!

Another blaster round hit near the leader. The villagers were mumbling among themselves. Their leader was talking to no one. To them, he was crazed. How could Zathar know he was alone…especially when all that blaster fire erupted?

"Now," Obi-Wan yelled. "Will you do as I say…or must we start killing?"

The villagers looked to Zathar for instructions. He seemed uncertain. The leader had faced Yalla's wrath before. Now there was this new danger of dying. "Free the Jedi," he said quietly.

"NO!" Yalla yelled as he used the Force to shove Zathar as far and as hard as he could. The villagers were amazed at this. Some stood in astonishment. Others ran in terror. There must be some evil at work here. Zathar was already acting strangely. In the distraction and disturbance, Obi-Wan set the two blasters to firing. This only upset the villagers more. They began to desert the square and run for the buildings.

Perfect! Obi-Wan ran into the fray, swinging his saber and Force pushing as he ran. In the confusion and terror there was little resistance to him. He ran up to the platform and leaped on it. With an application of his saber to each of the metal bracelets, Qui-Gon was free. He almost collapsed but Obi-Wan kept him from falling.

"Get away Obi-Wan. You can't get me out of here. Too much. I'm too weak. I can't make it. Go."

"No. I can't leave you. I won't leave you!" The apprentice was trying to find a way to lift his master. The long lanky body would be hard for him to carry…but he could use the Force to help him. However, there was no way he could carry him without hurting him. That became a lower priority though as some villagers began to regroup and take an interest in what was going on up on that platform.

Obi-Wan leaned his master over his shoulder and took a deep breath. How could he run…even with the Force to assist him in lifting the weight, his tall master was still bulky. There was little choice. He started to step down from the platform when two men stepped in front of him brandishing blasters. Obi-Wan was thinking fast and furious and was about the try something desperate when he heard a loud…and familiar voice.

The padawan turned to see Jareel and Daven, light sabers drawn and hurrying his way. At the moment there was little blaster fire…at least at the Jedi. The villagers were still firing at the imaginary targets surrounding them. Most had not noticed the new visitors. Obi-Wan's assailants fled at the sight of the two Jedi.

"We've got to get out of here," Jareel yelled over the crowd noise. "Especially before we are noticed." He reached over to take Obi-Wan's burden. Qui-Gon cried out in pain at all the handling of his battered body…but there was little to be done about it at the moment. "Sorry, old friend. It will be over soon. This way." Jareel led them toward the back of the platform and they started out the village that way. Obi-Wan and Daven brought up the rear, light sabers ready to deflect the few shots aimed their direction. There was less activity toward the rear of the village. Most of it was directed in the square and the hill facing the square.

Inside the nearby building Yalla was furious. "How can they not see what is going on in front of their brainless eyes? How can Jedi…especially that big one, come into the village without being seen! Fools! I should have known better than to pick a backward village like this! So easily taken in by that simple trick! Fools!" His face was a dark blue and he fumed and stomped.

Hanar was trying to slip out the doorway. He feared being the object of release of tension for Yalla. The researcher saw him and threw him to the wall. "You dare desert me too! I'll show you! I told you, didn't I? I told you I wouldn't stand anymore of your treachery!"

The human lay there gasping and clutching his throat. Then his eyes began to roll backward as the life drained away…and he was still. Yalla stormed out of the building and began Force shoving villagers and picking out particular ones to choke. He was looking for Zathar…who had suddenly and completely disappeared.

This was one time that Jareel was glad of his big size. It had served him well in the past when he carried Qui-Gon around the training area…often into one of his pranks. But this was no laughing matter now. He had easily lifted his friend and literally wrapped him over the top of his shoulders. It would give him more control and a better center of gravity than carrying him on the front. And it would allow him to hold Qui-Gon's body more stationary than just throwing him over his shoulder. This way would give him a good hold on his friend…and hopefully decrease the movement…the irritation of his injuries rubbing against Jareel's robe.

They were hurrying away from the village as fast as they could. Now the big Jedi knew that the extra time he had put into training was serving him well. He was able to hurry with his burden, but the motion was aggravating Qui-Gon's injuries. He tried not to cry out in pain at the bumps and the rubbing against his raw flesh. It didn't matter anymore. Yes…it was painful…but it was almost over…almost over. If he could survive what the villagers had already done to him…he could survive this. He just relaxed as much as he was able to and just tried not to do anything that might hinder Jareel.

Occasionally Jareel would stumble a little…and the quick movement of trying to catch his balance was another blow to the suffering Jedi master. But, as long as he was able to, he would not allow himself to cry out. The Force helped…but still in a weakened state, his hold was not complete on it. Near the end of their escape, he finally gave in from his exhaustion and cries of pain escaped his lips. Jareel desperately wanted to slow because of that…but he knew their greater safety depended on getting away. He steeled himself to his friend's pain and kept hurrying.

"There it is Master," Daven said as he started to hurry forward toward their transport.

"Wait!" Jareel called out. "We don't know who may have visited while we were gone. Be careful." The big Jedi stood back in the cover of the forest while the two armed padawans stepped out into the clearing. Obi-Wan stayed near Jareel and Daven began walking toward the transport. When he was about halfway to it, Jareel decided not to wait any longer. He began walking quickly toward the ship. A sound exploded from the trees…a blaster shot. Without a second thought, all the Jedi began to run.

Daven reached the ship first and hit the button to lower the ramp. Obi-Wan stayed behind Jareel to cover him and Qui-Gon. Jareel hurried up the ramp and into the ship. The two apprentices stood at the bottom and continued to block the blaster fire.

"Hurry Obi-Wan," Daven called out. "Go!"

The apprentice knew this was no time to argue. He ran. As soon as the path was clear, Daven followed. He ran up the ramp and hit the button to close it.

"Can you two get us out of here?" Jareel called to the padawans.

"Yes Master," Daven assured him.

The big blonde man was helping Qui-Gon onto one of the sleep couches. The rough trip had caused some of his many injuries to break open. Jareel surveyed his friend and decided the most injury free place was his sides. He lowered Qui-Gon onto his left side on the bed. After settling him into place, the big Jedi retrieved the medikit and returned to the bed. Gingerly he applied bacta to the worst of the injuries. Qui-Gon was worn down by what he'd endured. He lay still and gently moaned at Jareel's ministrations.

Now that they were stationary instead of fleeing for their lives, Jareel could see just how badly Qui-Gon was injured. The blonde Jedi could feel the anger boiling up inside. How could a person do this to another? And for what reason? He still didn't know that yet. Jabbot was supposed to be a friendly place. They all said so. What happened to bring this hatred down on Qui-Gon? What had they used to do this? So many questions crying out for answers. But this was not the time for asking.

No longer able to endure his friend's suffering anymore, the big Jedi placed a hand to his head. "Sleep old friend. It's better this way." Qui-Gon's eyes closed. Jareel treated him as best he could. The wounds were so extensive it was hard to tend all of them…especially the large area of chemical burns. The blonde man did all he could and then left Qui-Gon to sleep. That was what he truly needed right now. To rest and restore him. Then the elder Jedi could get that connection with the Force and assist his healing. He paused for one more glance at the battered body and took a deep breath to help chase the anger away.

Jareel entered the cockpit area.

"We have set course for Coruscant Master," Daven informed him. Then he turned his dark eyes on the big man. "Still several days away."

"There's little to be done about it," Jareel answered. "I've done what I can," he said to a concerned Obi-Wan. "He is asleep. We must wait now. That's all we can do. What happened there?" he asked as he took a seat.

The apprentice shook his head and rubbed weary eyes with his hands. "I wish I knew Master Jareel. It all happened so fast…" his voice trailed off as he remembered the initial attack. "When we arrived at the village, we both felt something wrong…something evil. And the villagers were all hiding in their homes. We could see them peeking out at us. Then…without warning a huge crowd with blasters attacked us. There were too many for us to fight. We were going to try to escape. I was knocked down and kicked around…but managed to get away. At that point, I had no idea what happened to Master Qui-Gon. I lost contact with him…like he was unconscious."

"I did find a large lump on the back of his head when I was looking him over."

"I found a cave to hide in. I didn't know what to do…not being able to talk to Master Qui-Gon. When I finally was able to communicate with him, he told me the villagers were in an uproar and to stay away. He didn't say what it was about. When I got back to the village…"

Jareel interrupted. "You went back even though he told you to stay away?"

Expecting a rebuke Obi-Wan said quietly, "Yes Master Jareel."

The blonde man allowed a small smile. "What happened next?"

"I heard the leader saying that if Master Qui-Gon insisted on continuing to lie, he would continue to try to force the truth from him. Master Qui-Gon was telling him that the Jedi never hurt their children. That's all I know about why we might have been attacked. For some reason they think we are doing wrong to the children we bring to the temple."

"Hmm…. Why would anyone want to start such talk about the Jedi? I suppose we have enough enemies though. Enforcers of law usually do. Hard to think that someone would actually believe that though. The Jedi are so high profile in what they do. How could we hide something like that?" He paused thoughtfully. "Do you know what they used to do…that to him?"

"No Master Jareel. I saw them spread something on Master Qui-Gon's chest. I don't know what it was…but I know the pain it caused him. And I did…see them lash him…"

The big Jedi put a hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. That had to have been hard for the padawan to watch. The entire episode must have been hard. And…it tugged at his memory a little. Charon…when he had suffered such pain and Daven had to endure…and rescue him. Now Obi-Wan had had to watch his master endure something unspeakable and rescue him. He stole a glance at Daven who was looking intently at him with those dark eyes.

"I must make a report to the temple," Jareel said as he looked away.

"Selling their children into slavery?" the big blonde man said incredulously. "And…a Force user." When Qui-Gon awoke feeling a little better, he told his story to Jareel who was still in shock over the whole thing.

"Yes, at the time I was so dazed I couldn't quite put it together," Qui-Gon said in a weak voice. "Looking back on it though, I remember begin choked…but no one was touching me. There was some creature there just watching me."

"A rouge Jedi?"

"Possible…but not necessarily. There are other Force users besides Jedi."

"But, a rejected Jedi would have more reason to try to stir up hate against us," Jareel pointed out.

"True."

"It's even worse than I had imagined. A malicious Force user…and trying to make people think we sell their children. And they were trying to get you to admit to that?"

"Yes," Qui-Gon answered in a still weak voice. "Their leader was convinced it was true. He wouldn't listen to me at all. The only thing he wanted out of me was a confession." The Jedi was quiet for a moment. "I have to admit…I was beginning to wonder if he wouldn't get it. When I started losing focus and connection with the Force…I didn't know how much…"

"Shh," Jareel lightly put a hand on his friend's arm. "Let it go for now. It's over. You have to heal now. When you are better…you can deal with that. Believe me, I know. It's easier to contend with things like that when you are not suffering physically as well. Your energy must go into your physical healing right now. Listen to me. Telling you what you probably already know. Acting like I'm such an expert."

Qui-Gon was glad Jareel brought this up instead of him. "I'm sure you know a lot about it now. But…maybe you have a bit more to learn." He paused for a breath.

"What do you mean?"

"Jareel, you probably saved Obi-Wan and I. I'm not sure Obi-Wan could have gotten me out of there. Stubborn. Have to talk to him about that. Disobeying his master…more than once."

"What did you expect him to do? Fly away in the transport and leave you? Wouldn't you have tried to save him in the same circumstances…even with the odds so strongly against you?"

Qui-Gon studied the rugged face. "And what was it you said about Daven leaving you behind instead of risking himself on Charon?"

The remark caught Jareel completely off guard. He was speechless. Then in a very quiet voice he mumbled, "Space pirate. You fight dirty."

In spite of how weak and pained he felt, Qui-Gon couldn't help but smile. "As they say…all's fair in love and war."

Still speaking in a quiet tone, the big blonde man asked, "Is this war?"

"Jareel, you have become a more focused Jedi…a stronger warrior. And I'm sure that served you well in our rescue…but as I told Obi-Wan before we left on this mission, I miss my friend."

The big Jedi was surprised at the statement. "I'm still your friend. Just because I have…changed doesn't mean our friendship has to."

"But it has…because you have. The old Jareel saved me just as much as the new Jareel. You lifted my spirit and brightened my days with your humor. Especially those dark days of my recovery from Ruka. Days when I could find nothing to smile about, you made me laugh. You wouldn't let me stay in that state. You saved me then just as much as you saved me on Jabbot." He was quiet while he watched for Jareel's reaction. "Don't you think maybe there's room for both Jareels there? You have a heart as big as you. Don't you think there's enough room inside it for a focused knight…and a light hearted, caring person?"

The big blonde looked away as he thought over his friend's words. Finally, he said, "I don't know. I know how to be the light hearted Jareel…and I know how to be the focused one. I don't know how to do both at once."

"Don't you think it's time you tried to find out? No one can fault you for wanting to be a better knight but haven't you figured out yet that you can't hold back your true personality? How hard are you having to work to keep from jabbing at Leish when he makes suggestions to you in the gym?"

Jareel couldn't hold back the big smile that broke over his face. It was balm to Qui-Gon's soul to see the gleam back in those pale blue eyes. "Very hard. I have to work out harder to get rid of the tension."

"I suspected as much. Will you try? If not for you…then for the children? I know they miss you terribly. They want their hero back." Was that water in Jareel's eyes that made them seem even brighter? Qui-Gon wasn't sure.

"You talk too much. You need your rest. Hero indeed. I need to have a talk with them if that's what they think of me. I've proven I'm no hero."

"No," Qui-Gon disagreed. "You have proven you are."

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