Asharzal - I guess you'll just have to wait and see!
Chapter 50 - Divergent Paths
Kastor and Adi made their way to the hangar, already finding their team gathering. There were already four Jedi and two Mandalorians present, but Tera Sinube was also arriving with two more Jedi and four Mandalorians in tow.
Kastor and Adi exchanged glances, both thinking the same thing. If Tera and Yoda thought this much force was needed, then it was something very serious. This was probably all the force that the Temple could gather on this short of a notice.
He recognized several of the Jedi. There was Akial, the only Jawa Jedi Kastor had ever heard of. He was a respected consular who had graduated from the Almas Academy. Next to Akial was Mynnic, a human consular and like Fay, a nomadic Jedi. Unlike Fay or Jon Antilles, Mynnic was known to return to the Temple occasionally, but he still spent most of his time away, following his interpretation of the will of the Force and working with non-Force sensitives who joined his adventures. On the other side of Akial was another familiar face. An old friend from the battle of Malastare Narrows.
"Kep-She," Kastor greeted with a smile.
"Master Shan," Kep-She responded formally, and Kastor rolled his eyes at the Zabrak Jedi Master.
"Always so formal," he said with a sigh.
"Some of us enjoy the formalities," Kep-She responded with a slight smile. "Besides, some of us need to set a different example for the Padawans, lest they all seek to try and emulate your various hair-brained schemes."
Kastor laughed.
"I seem to remember you going along with my hair-brained schemes," Kastor responded.
"Well, sometimes unconventional thinking is the answer to a problem," Kep-She responded wryly and Kastor chuckled.
"It's good to see you, my friend," Kastor said. "Nice to know you can bail me out of trouble."
"I think you bailed me out last time," Kep-She responded dryly.
"Ah, so you owe me then!" Kastor remarked and Kep-She shook her head slightly and sighed.
"Kastor, good to see you, good to see you," Tera said with a smile, though Kastor could sense the unease from the ancient Jedi. "Let me introduce you to the other members of your team."
Kastor nodded in agreement, not having recognized the other three Jedi, one a Rodian, another a Mon Calamari, and the last an Ithorian.
"This is Knight Lumen Thaylis," Tera introduced the Rodian, and Kastor returned Lumen's bow. "This is Knight Talon Draydon." Tera introduced the Mon Calamari. "Lastly, Veran Solis." Tera finished with the Ithorian.
"A pleasure to meet you all," Kastor said with a slight nod of his head and then turned to the Mandalorians. "Ori, Krenid, Tor, Par, Tra, and Dola. It's always pleasant when our songs intertwine."
"Indeed," Tra Ehn said. He was a burly Zabrak and was a frequent hand-to-hand combat instructor at the Temple.
Ori Naak and Krenid Jaare were both instructors as well, both helping younger Padawans with blocking blaster fire with their lightsabers, teaching how to shoot, and Ori was one of the instructors that was helping teach Jedi interested how to speak Mando'a while Krenid helped teach Jedi how to disarm explosives. Kastor figured all three of them just wanted to get out on an assignment, away from teaching for a bit. Tor Eso and Par Ehn had both just returned from assignments. That left Dola Haar who was a tech specialist and had been collaborating on some sort of project with the Tech Division of the Order.
"A good crew," Kastor said with a nod. "It sounds like time is of the essence, so let us depart. Chandrila is our next stop."
"May the Force be with you all," Tera responded, and Kastor smiled.
"And with you, Master Sinube."
While his teammates were getting settled, Kastor and Adi made their way to the cockpit to start getting the Ebon Hawk ready for takeoff. Scrappy was already in the cockpit and gave a loud, rude set of beeps.
"Yes, yes, I know you wanted more time to do a diagnostics check," Kastor said, "but unfortunately we have a job. Prep the navigation system for Chandrila and then continue your efforts to maintain the ship."
A couple of more rude expletives were his reply and Kastor sighed as he slid into the pilot's seat.
"Some things never change," Adi remarked with a wry smile.
"It has been a while since we've worked together, my friend," Kastor agreed. "And yes, some things never change. Scrappy only gets more and more obstinate as the years go on, but he's a good friend and he never lets me down."
"You avoid the Council too much for us to work together regularly," Adi said.
"True, but you're also too busy with the Council to work with me regularly," Kastor said back with a grin.
Adi sighed.
"I can't deny that statement. I enjoy my work on the Council. However, it does restrict me to Coruscant more than I would like at times. With how thin our Order is spread, I suspect that will be less and less true as the darkness continues to grow, but then we'll have to work separately for a different reason."
"Have you thought about stepping down from your long-term position?" Kastor asked, as he started pulling the Ebon Hawk into the sky.
The High Council was made up of five lifetime members: Yoda, Mace, Plo, Saesee, and Ki-Adi, whose appointment was still rather new. There were then four long-term appointments: Oppo, Even, Depa, and Adi. Long-term appointments had no real timeline on when they would step down, but as a general trend they only served for fifteen or twenty years. Lastly were the three short-term appointments: Eeth, Shaak, and Coleman, who served for five to ten years. Eeth was fast approaching his time to step down. It was one of the ways that the High Council ensured fresh ideas and viewpoints were brought into the Council every decade or so.
"It's crossed my mind a few times," Adi admitted. "Being on the Council allows me to help direct change in the Order, and since I'm generally based on Coruscant I get to instruct younglings and initiates in my free time. I live a good life of service. Of course, I'm also around when you, Siri, Kit, Obi-Wan, or any of my other dear friends return from missions, but I do miss exploring the stars, and basking in the living Force on different worlds."
"Well, maybe you should consider it," Kastor said. "You've been on the Council for a while, my friend. It might be time to get back out into the field. Maybe even get a new Padawan. There's no way your next one will be as much of a handful as Siri."
Adi chuckled.
"Force, I love that girl, but I can only hope my next Padawan is not as rambunctious, and you didn't help matters."
"Yes, yes, I corrupted your Padawan," Kastor said dryly.
"You did at that," Adi said firmly. "What about you? If I stepped down, would you be willing to take my spot on the Council? Have you thought about taking another Padawan? Personally, I think the Council could use your fresh outlook, and I'm not the only one who thinks so. I also think a Padawan would benefit greatly from your guidance."
"The Council was never really my ideal position," Kastor admitted. "I see the benefits, and I know that perhaps I can help create larger change there. However, I'm just not sure that that is where I belong. As for a Padawan? I've thought about it, but I worry that my current path is not conducive to being a proper master."
"Well, maybe your time in the shadows is coming to an end," Adi said lightly. "You find yourself increasingly in the open. Your primary cover has never been more exposed. The younglings look to you as a source of inspiration. Your exploits with the Mandalorians and that potluck have intrigued members of the Senate and put the Order into a good, if somewhat controversial light. Perhaps you should let Rhys, Taria, even Fay and Asuna continue your work in the underworld, and perhaps it is time for you to help the next generation of Jedi . . . Jedi who might be the key to our Order's survival in the growing darkness."
"You're speaking of that prophecy," Kastor responded quietly.
"Yes . . . and no," Adi remarked. "Whether the prophecy is true or not, the fact stands that you could be helping to influence the next generation of Jedi, and from what many of us have seen, you have brought change to our Order . . . change that was perhaps sorely needed. If that prophecy is true, then your change might also be exactly what we need to survive the coming dark times."
Kastor stared at his old friend.
"I just think you should consider it," Adi finished, and Kastor nodded slowly.
"I will."
**The Will of the Force**
The Teda Landing Platform on Romin was high in the clouds above the capital city of Eliior. It was the only arrival station for the area, and yet it was nearly empty as Anakin guided the ship down.
"Not much business or tourism going on here," Obi-Wan observed. "The planet's economy runs on bribes paid to Teda."
"That means that the only one getting rich is Teda," Siri observed.
Anakin released the ramp control. Siri strode down in front of Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan was amused by the contrast between Siri's purposeful, athletic stride and the lilac shimmersilk robe she now wore. It was tied with a rose-colored sash embroidered in delicate gold thread, but over the sash Siri had insisted on wearing her battered utility belt. Obi-Wan wondered if Siri would really be able to pull off Valadon's trademark flirtatiousness.
Anakin and Ferus were wearing their minimal disguises, while Obi-Wan was nearly unrecognizable in his finery. All had managed to conceal their lightsabers except Siri, whose outfit was simply too revealing to cover much of anything. So Obi-Wan carried hers.
"Look, that must be Zan Arbor's ship," Anakin murmured to Obi-Wan.
Indeed, there was the beautiful ship that Obi-Wan recognized as the Luxe Flightwing, with its trademark wings folded back like a bird in flight. Its exterior was made out of a rare gleaming white ore.
There was a security officer already waiting for them on the landing pad. Romin had golden skin and eyes, their noses were flat, and their mouths were wide and expressive. This officer was no different, also wearing an ornate dress uniform that seemed out of place on a security platform.
"Welcome to Romin. Identification, if you please."
Obi-Wan handed over the ID docs and the officer started to check their documentation.
"You have come to Romin for what purpose?" the officer asked.
"We would like to relocate here," Obi-Wan said.
The officer looked up quickly. "There are procedures and waivers. We do not allow just anyone to be a citizen of Romin."
"We understand and will go through the full process," Obi-Wan said. "In the meantime, we would like to enter your beautiful city." He passed over a bundle of credits.
The officer slid them into his pocket in a very practiced movement and then continued to process their documents before he moved over to a different console and began entering their information again.
"He plugged in our names and discovered that we're escaped criminals," Siri murmured as the officer's face changed and he glanced at them before he started speaking into his comlink.
"Now, we'll see just how quickly they decide if we're worth harboring or not," Obi-Wan murmured back. "Assuming Roy Teda's contacts are wide, he should be able to know that the Slams have a fortune in crystalline vertex somewhere."
It was only a few minutes later before the officer returned to them, smiling broadly. "Forgive me if I failed to welcome you properly earlier. We are so busy here, you see."
"Of course," Obi-Wan said magnanimously, waving his hand extravagantly.
'This place couldn't be any emptier,' Anakin said into Obi-Wan's mind, and Obi-Wan sent back his amusement to his Padawan.
"Due to your status as important guests, Great Leader Teda would like to extend a personal welcome," the officer said. "My name is Becka. With your kind permission, I am to escort you to his grand palace."
Soon they were using a turbolift that took them to the planet's surface where an airspeeder was waiting for them. Becka slid into the pilot seat while they all hopped into the passenger area and soon he was taking them through moderate traffic, explaining about the city as they went.
"Eliior has no crime, as you will see," Becka said. "We have peace and prosperity here. Citizens have plenty of work and plenty of leisure time. Our gardens are renowned and our goods are the finest in the galaxy. I will take you by our best shopping street on the way to the palace and you will see."
"You are lucky to live on such a world," Siri remarked, and Obi-Wan felt the sarcasm through their bond.
"We are lucky to have a leader such as Roy Teda," he replied. "He has created the great perfection around us."
Of course, just as he said that, they drove by a battered security wall that was hundreds of meters high and had security droids all around it.
"What is that?" Obi-Wan asked. He knew the answer, he was just interested in the official explanation. In a dictatorship, it rarely matched reality.
Ellior was populated by the wealthy, both Romins and those who had come to pay to prop up Teda. The workers lived outside the wall in hovels that grew progressively worse the further away from the city you went. The wall had guard droids and surveillance systems, not to mention members of Teda's military, and the workers required passes and a work reason to even get into the city.
Becka made a quick turn down another wide boulevard lined with tall, leafy trees. "You mean the Cloudflower Wall? Some of our citizens prefer to live outside the city. There is beautiful countryside outside Eliior. The wall allows them to have the illusion that they live in wilderness. It is planted with cloudflower vines on the opposite side. Another great step of progression by Great Leader Teda! Truly, he is remarkable."
Just then they passed a large laserboard. In pulsing light, the image of a noble-looking Romin appeared in profile. Words appeared in Basic:
WATCHING! CARING! PROTECTING!
GREAT LEADER TEDA LOVES HIS PEOPLE
Becka beamed. "Now, here you will see examples of our excellent commerce and wonderful goods."
There were very exclusive shops, filled with luxurious goods in the windows of the street that Becka drove them down, but the street was nearly empty, and it was clear that there were basically no customers in the shop, yet Becka beamed with pride.
"There's no one in the shops," Siri observed, and Obi-Wan wanted to sigh. She just loved pushing the boundary.
"Not a traditional shopping day," Becka said. "Ah, now, here are our great residences."
Great fit the description. There were palaces made from stone and durasteel, with fortified walls around them and framed by lush gardens and sparkling fountains.
"Many of our most substantial citizens live here," Becka explained. "One after the other, in luxurious and spacious villas. The boulevard ends at the grand palace complex of Great Leader Teda."
Another checkpoint occurred before Becka finally drove up to the main doors of Teda's palace. He then quickly made his departure leaving the four Jedi to meet Roy Teda.
A short Romin man in flowing multicolored robes stood in the doorway of the palace. Obi-Wan recognized him immediately and was surprised. Great Leader Teda had come to welcome them personally.
"Welcome to my world," Teda said, opening his arms wide. "So, what do you think of my Romin so far?"
"Amazing!" Obi-Wan cried, going with a flamboyant approach that he figured Slam would use. He opened his arms wider than Teda's. "Incredible! We're overcome!"
"I am seeing that this is true by your faces!" Teda answered, beaming. "We Romins are so proud of our world that we are not surprised when visitors decide they must live here. On behalf of all Romins, I welcome you!"
Obi-Wan threw back his purple cloak and gave a short bow. "I am Slam. These are my associates, Valadon, Waldo, and Ukiah."
"And I am Great Leader Teda." Teda ignored Anakin and Ferus and headed directly for Siri. He slipped an arm through hers. "I have heard of your beauty, but words are nothing next to the reality of the realness of you. Your presence will only add to the beauty of our planet. You are prettier than a cloudflower." He stroked her arm with a finger.
The smile on Siri's face seemed fixed with a strong adhesive. "You're very kind," she purred admiringly.
He kept his face close to hers. He held up one chubby finger. "I speak only the most truthful truth in everything always. Remember that."
Siri lifted an eyebrow. "Truth in everything always? Then the reports are correct. You are a rare being."
Teda hesitated as he puzzled out what Siri meant. Then he laughed. "I'm hearing you now, and you have wit! You will return and have a long, lengthy lunch with me in my private dining room."
"Spoken like a true leader," Siri observed. "You are used to being obeyed, I see. You issue invitations like orders."
Teda laughed again. He seemed delighted with everything Siri had to say. "Again, I am loving this. Unfortunately as a leader I have meetings, too many, always, I am telling you. You don't know the burden of my burdens." Reluctantly, he dropped Siri's arm. "But first, allow me to ease the difficulties of your first days on Romin. There is a villa nearby, small, but perfect. You will stay there. It is for sale, so it is unoccupied and empty right now. If you wish to buy it, you will buy it. If not, you will find something else equally as perfect. For now, you may stay there without payment. My gift to you." His gaze lingered on Siri. "Beauty deserves beautiful surroundings."
"That is quite generous," Obi-Wan enthused. "We thank you."
He knew it was really just Teda's way of keeping tabs on them.
"Now deputy Hansel will take care of you." Teda gave Siri a meaningful look. "I will see you all again before too long. Or sooner, even."
Teda quickly disappeared into the palace, but was replaced by another Romin almost immediately.
"I am Hansel. Welcome to Romin. You have already seen something of the city of Eliior. While we enjoy a thriving economy, there are several charities close to the Great Leader's heart that are short of the funds they need to fully extend the great steps of progression. There is the Teda Institute for Children, for example. Also, the Teda Gallery of Horticultural Treasures of Romin. There are many native plants that are sadly in need of extra attention. I tell you this only so that you realize that Romin is not absolutely perfect in all areas. It is only correct that we do so. Great Leader Teda believes in truth in everything always."
"Yes, he already told us that," Siri said. "Naturally, it is true because he says it is, as he doesn't lie."
Hansel gave Siri a sharp look. Then he nodded politely. "Precisely."
Obi-Wan nudged her to be quiet. Insolence wasn't going to get them anywhere. This was the second bribe of the day it seemed.
"Please allow us to contribute to the needs of Romin's children," he said formally, pulling out credits from his robes.
"Your generosity is astonishing. I will inform Great Leader Teda of it. And, in the days or weeks to come, I hope you will allow us to call upon you if we find there is an especially pressing need."
'Thankfully, we'll be gone,' Siri's voice rang in his head.
"Of course," Obi-Wan said with a bow.
"Now, let me arrange transportation for you," Hansel said. "I understand that you will be occupying a villa in the secluded section."
"Thank you for your kind offer, but may we walk?" Obi-Wan asked. "If you give us directions, we'd like to stroll to our lodgings. It has been a long journey and before that we were . . . rather cooped up."
"Of course," Hansel said, looking unsurprised. "I will arrange for your things to be delivered. Just walk out the main gate and turn left. After five homes, you will see the villa. It is a golden color with a fountain in front. It has a black gate."
"I can't believe this," Ferus said, as they started to walk. "The children of Romin will never see those credits."
"Not to mention the plants," Anakin said, and both Obi-Wan and Siri snorted.
"This isn't a joke," Ferus said. "We just paid a fortune to a crook."
"We knew it was the only way to remain on Romin," Anakin pointed out. "It does no good to question the decision now."
"I'm not questioning it," Ferus said defensively, "but I don't have to like it, either."
Obi-Wan and Siri exchanged glances. This was a time when Anakin was completely right. The bribe was a necessity, so it was useless to regret it.
"Teda doesn't seem very bright," Obi-Wan observed, changing the subject. "I expected something different."
"He doesn't have to be bright, he just has to be a thug," Siri pointed out.
"Yes, but he's the one who managed to get into power," Obi-Wan said. "I just don't see how he pulled it off."
"Maybe he had help," Ferus said thoughtfully.
"That's a pleasant thought," Anakin muttered.
"Time is short," Obi-Wan said. "We should do some reconnaissance of Zan Arbor's house. It should be nearby. We'll do a quick survey and then we'd better get settled in the villa. No doubt Great Leader Teda will be keeping an eye on us," Obi-Wan finished sarcastically.
A security officer opened the gate for them. They walked down the wide street, past the grand walls behind which palaces crouched, protected against invaders.
"I've never seen so many walls and gates in one city before," Anakin observed. "I guess the criminals here have plenty of enemies."
"That's why they pay Teda so much," Obi-Wan said. The four of them made their way down several long avenues, trying to keep a low profile. "Here is Zan Arbor's villa. Slow just a bit. See without looking."
"The usual and then some," Siri said once they'd passed. "Security towers, armed windows, and doors."
"Infrared night sensors," Anakin added.
"Rooftop surveillance droids," Ferus said. "Plus random invisible energy fences on the grounds. This will be tough to break into."
"We'll take the easy way," Obi-Wan said.
"There's an easy way?" Ferus asked.
"There always is," Obi-Wan said with a slight smile.
"We just walk in the front door," Siri finished for him, also smiling.
The Jedi arrived at their villa. It was modest for their neighborhood, but still extremely nice, especially when compared to where they normally stayed on a mission. Everything was expensive and luxurious. The reception rooms were large and sunny and there was a large garden off of the kitchen.
"Are you sure we have to leave here in two days?" Anakin asked wonderingly.
Siri was completely uninterested in her surroundings. "They've created a paradise within the city walls, but it's an empty one. There is no economy to speak of. Did you see those stores? Expensive things to buy, but nobody except Teda and his confederates can afford them. The workers live in misery right outside the walls." She shook her head. "No matter how much I see, I will always be shocked by how other beings can be happy when surrounded by such cruelty."
Obi-Wan nodded in agreement before he looked at Ferus and Anakin.
"Siri and I will make the first visit to Zan Arbor. In the meantime, you two should do some basic reconnaissance. Walk the streets. Have conversations. Note security, traffic patterns, and escape routes."
"Any specific objectives in mind?" Ferus asked.
"No," Obi-Wan said. "You never know what will turn out to be useful later."
"I've studied the maps of the city," Ferus said. "I'm sure I can plot possible escape routes or—"
Obi-Wan interrupted him curtly. "Maps are useful, but I learned something else from Qui-Gon. A map is not the territory. Go."
The two Padawans hurried off.
"I'm assuming you have a plan," Siri said.
"Almost," Obi-Wan said. "Just follow my lead. Unless . . ."
"Unless?"
"Unless you'd rather stop off at Teda's for that lunch," Obi-Wan teased. He ducked as an overstuffed pillow, lifted by the Force, flew straight at his head.
It was easy to get an audience with Zan Arbor. Obi-Wan merely announced at the front gate that Slam and Valadon wished to see her. Apparently, egomaniacal evil scientists and master thieves needed no introduction, for they were ushered inside immediately.
They were led to a room overlooking the gardens by a tall, hulking Phlog who was obviously a bodyguard. Zan Arbor sat in a chair perfectly positioned to backlight her bright hair and soften her features. She wore a simple silver gown with an azure belt.
It had been eighteen years since Obi-Wan had last seen her. He had changed much, being older, taller, but beyond that he was sadder in many ways, and yet happier than he'd been back then. His face showed his years, but that was how life worked. Zan Arbor, however, looked almost unchanged. Clearly she had spared no expense in trying to preserve herself.
Obi-Wan bowed. "Thank you for seeing us."
Even while she smiled a greeting, Zan Arbor's green eyes ticked over him and Siri. "We new arrivals on Romin should stick together," she said. "Great Leader Teda has told me of your accomplishments. I was eager to make your acquaintance. Your reputation precedes you."
"As does yours," Obi-Wan complimented, wondering if Teda had actually talked to her already. He doubted it for many reasons.
As they sat down, Zan Arbor began to pour tea from a silver pot. Everything in the room suggested extreme wealth and luxury, from the ornate chairs to the porcelain cups, the finely crafted urns and bowls, the gleaming wood furniture. How had Zan Arbor managed to set herself up in such luxury so soon?
"And how are you finding Romin so far?" she asked, handing Siri a cup while seeming to notice every detail of her dress, down to her bare legs and her soft gold boots. Zan Arbor's lips pressed together in some kind of disapproval.
"We've only just arrived," Siri said, "but we are delighted to find it so pleasant, luxurious, and safe."
"Yes, you will not have to worry here," Zan Arbor agreed, handing a cup to Obi-Wan. "Great Leader Teda protects his friends. Romin is a perfect place to retire."
She took a sip of tea, lowering her eyelids.
"Or not," Obi-Wan said.
Zan Arbor looked up.
"It is also a perfect place from which to do business."
Zan Arbor inclined her head. "That, too. Or so I hear."
"And we are far too young to retire," Siri said, following Obi-Wan's lead.
"As are you, I am sure," Obi-Wan said.
Carefully, Zan Arbor put her teacup down. "Perhaps you should tell me why you've come."
"We've come to make the acquaintance of the finest scientific mind in the galaxy, it is true," Obi-Wan said. "We have also come to tempt you with an offer."
"I assure you, I am retired." Zan Arbor slid an errant blond hair back into her perfect coiffure, "but you have my interest."
"We have a plan that I'm not at liberty to discuss fully," Obi-Wan continued. "It involves a great deal of wealth. A planetary treasury, in fact. You may have heard that we've had some success in that area. We're a modest bunch, but we're most confident we can build on that success."
Obi-Wan smiled, trying to use Slam's charm.
Zan Arbor seemed to respond to his smile. She waved a hand, allowing him to proceed.
"We have the tech diagrams and a detailed way to get inside our target," Obi-Wan said. "We just need help with the guards. If we had an air delivery system that would slow down or incapacitate them for twenty minutes, we could raid the entire treasury."
Zan Arbor gave a tiny smile. "And so you came to me."
"Word has reached us of your experiments on Vanqor," Siri broke in. "An exciting development. You have the key to controlling minds. If you can control minds, you can control fortunes." She shrugged. "It's as simple as that."
"Or as complicated."
"Your involvement would be hidden," Siri continued. "The risk would be ours."
"You would be an equal partner, however," Obi-Wan said.
"We have the false ID docs ready," Siri said. "We can leave tomorrow. Tonight, if you wish. You could come aboard our ship, and we'd have you back here in two days."
"A little effort for a great reward," Obi-Wan said. He flashed her a smile again, but this time she did not respond as before.
"Why would I do this?" Zan Arbor waved a hand. "I have everything I want. I live in a palace. I have the fastest ship in the galaxy at my disposal. What more do I need?"
"I have found," Obi-Wan said softly, "that there are needs, and there are wants. So the question is not what more do you need, but what more do you want?"
She raised an eyebrow, impressed with this despite herself. "Very clever, but I can supply my own wants." She pushed her tea tray away in dismissal. "Your little plan sounds intriguing. I wish you luck with it."
"I assure you, the rewards are greater than you can imagine," Obi-Wan said, trying again.
This seemed to amuse Zan Arbor greatly. "I doubt that." She gave a small laugh, as though to herself. "There is what I can imagine, and what actually lies ahead. I'm sorry to say that you must have more than this to tempt me. We cannot be collaborators, but we're going to be neighbors. Let us be friends as well."
Pasting a smile on his face, Obi-Wan nodded, but tried to think quickly. Zan Arbor couldn't have retired, especially since she didn't finish her work on Vanquor. So, why wouldn't she take the chance when it seemingly was without risk to herself? Then again, maybe it wasn't the risk, but who they were? She didn't know them after all. Maybe with a bit more time . . .
Zan Arbor stood. "This has been lovely. I'm sure we'll meet again. Hue will see you out."
The same tall Phlog appeared. Zan Arbor disappeared through the doorway, leaving them alone with the Phlog.
'Charm him,' Obi-Wan quickly sent to Siri in his mind as he pretended to swipe a sweet from the tray.
She looked at Obi-Wan in disbelief. 'Are you serious? He's a walking slab of muscle. It would be like charming a side of bantha meat.'
'Valadon could do it,' Obi-Wan pointed out.
He heard her breath hiss out between her teeth.
Obi-Wan hesitated by the tea table, pretending to finish his cup of tea. Siri sauntered across the room to Hue. Obi-Wan watched her over the rim of his cup. He almost choked. The Siri he knew was gone. This Siri didn't stride across the room. She . . . wafted. Something happened with her hips and her legs and her hair. He wasn't sure what, but he knew it was drawing his attention.
Siri locked her blue eyes on the Phlog's face. "You are one tall specimen, even for a Phlog," she said in a silky voice that was just as new to Obi-Wan. "You know, I always had a special thing for Phlogs. I feel so . . . protected when I'm around them."
Hue didn't blink, just kept dull dark eyes on Siri's face. "As long as we're on your side," he said sharply.
She smiled. "Is that a threat? Oooh. I'd better be on my best behavior."
"You seem to be doing all right," the Phlog said.
"I've always wanted my very own bodyguard," Siri purred. "If you ever get tired of working here . . ."
"I'm tired of working here every day," Hue said easily, "but I work where the pay is. Know what I mean?"
"Very wise. I so admire a practical male," Siri cooed.
That 'slab of meat' was looking at Siri as if she was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen, and Obi-Wan couldn't disagree with him. His gaze followed Siri's every move, and she easily enticed him out of the room and into the hallway.
"Could you take just the teeniest moment and let me peek into the gallery?" she asked him. "I'd love to see more of the house."
The Phlog followed Siri in her drifting shimmersilk as though he were attached by a string. Obi-Wan knew he only had a minute or two, but he knew where to check. He'd used the Force while chatting with Zan Arbor and thus knew the cabinet concealed something.
He ran his fingers over the cabinet, calling on the Force to help his instinct, his vision, the very cells on his fingertips. He wished Anakin were here. Anakin's Force connection never failed to astonish him, even in his ease with inanimate objects. Kastor too would be an incredible asset, or Quinlan because of their psychometric abilities. Even Siri, with all her time undercover, had a rather intuitive mind when it came to searching for hidden compartments.
Obi-Wan knew that somewhere in this house was evidence that Zan Arbor was planning something. It was an instinct, based on knowledge of her. Greed drove her, of course, but also her ego. She was not the type to retire. That would mean that she felt she couldn't contribute anymore, and that would never happen. She believed she was the best.
And when she had said, 'There is what I can imagine, and what actually lies ahead,' what had she meant? She was making a private reference to her own plans, he was sure of it. Plans that would make his seem puny. That was the reason she had dismissed them.
'Ah . . . there.' Obi-Wan found the invisible seam. Another half second later, he found the catch. The cabinet opened silently, revealing a datapad, holofiles, comlinks—a concealed office.
He quickly pressed keys on the datapad. To his relief, not all the files were coded. He had so little time. He would have to start with the last file Zan Arbor had consulted.
The holofile appeared in front of him. Communications from someone or some organization, merely identified with a random series of numbers that changed with every communication. A standard device for concealment.
He scanned it quickly. He could hear Siri's voice now, heading back toward the reception room, pitched just a bit louder to warn him. He read quickly.
Safe houses arranged…
Officials to bribe have been contacted…
A start date must be decided on with care…
Everything depends upon…
Obi-Wan whipped out his datapad and slipped in a miniature disk. It would take only a few seconds to copy the file. He sent Siri a quick impression with the Force so that she would know to buy him a bit more time, if she could.
"Oh, can't I just peek into the kitchen? You can't imagine how much I love to cook . . . no?" He could hear the playful petulance in Siri's voice, almost seeing her mouth pursing in a pout.
'Ten seconds to go . . .'
"Now, where did Slam go? I thought he was right behind us. He's probably still eating those sweets."
'Five seconds . . .'
"Oops, I dropped my scarf."
'Done.'
Obi-Wan closed the holofile, slid the office shelf back into the cabinet, closed the false front, adjusted an urn, closed the cabinet, threw himself into a chair, and swept the sweets off the tray. He stuffed some down his tunic and two in his mouth just as they walked in the doors.
"Mmmfffphhh," he said to Siri.
She sighed. "I knew it! You ate them all! So rude, I have to apologize for him. We'll be going now."
Giving Hue a last flirtatious smile, Siri beckoned to Obi-Wan. Guided by the heavy Phlog, they made their way out of Zan Arbor's home and back into the sunlight.
"That had better be worth it," Siri said sternly.
"It was," Obi-Wan said. "Zan Arbor is planning something. I made a copy of a work disk. Some of the files are coded. I can try to crack them back at the villa."
Siri shuddered. "I think that Phlog left fingerprints on my arm."
"Oooh," Obi-Wan teased.
Siri raised an eyebrow at him as they walked, and then suddenly the flirtatious Siri was back, and Obi-Wan honestly felt his breath catch for a moment as she sauntered over to him. He couldn't stop admiring her movements, her eyes, her smile . . .
"If you want to stay alive," she warned, "don't ever make that sound again."
Obi-Wan chuckled, and then his Siri was back, smiling at him, looking a bit smug at how she affected him.
"That was very impressive," Obi-Wan admitted. "I'd never seen you like that. If you hadn't left the room, I might not have gotten anything done."
Siri snorted in amusement and lightly punched Obi-Wan's arm as he grinned.
"Flatterer," she said. Then she crossed her arms and arched an eyebrow at him. "Did you not trust Kastor in training me?" Siri asked. "Kastor worked with me tirelessly before I went undercover to make sure I could use flirtation and seduction if I needed to."
"So, what you're saying is that I should have made you work more if I wanted that treatment?" Obi-Wan asked innocently.
Siri snorted.
"You'll only get that treatment when I want something, and when I do, you'll be putty in my hands."
"I have no doubts about that, my dear," Obi-Wan agreed easily, humoring his friend and she laughed as they made their way back to the villa.
**The Will of the Force**
They had seen the rich part of the city, so Anakin and Ferus searched out the scruffier streets. It was readily apparent how great the poverty for the workers was in contrast to those who lived in the city. To say the two young Jedi were appalled was an understatement.
"I hope one day Teda will pay for his crimes," Ferus said quietly. "He is robbing his citizens."
"He is killing them," Anakin said fiercely. "You don't know what it's like to be them. I do."
He had spoken angrily, dismissively, but Ferus didn't take offense. He merely nodded.
"Yes, you do," he agreed. "That is your great strength, Anakin."
'His strength?' Anakin had always thought of it as his weakness.
They were close to the wall now, not wanting to get too close, but still wanting to observe a bit.
Anakin felt the Force surge a warning. "Someone is tailing us," he told Ferus.
Ferus didn't turn. "I didn't see anyone."
"I feel it."
After a moment, Ferus spoke. "I feel it, too."
"Let's lead whoever it is on and then double back and see who it is," Anakin suggested.
They picked up their pace slightly, weaving in and out of alleys and staying in the shadows of the buildings. This close to the security wall, the section was run-down, with buildings in disrepair, water running down the cracked streets, and even rats scurrying around.
They turned a corner to a short block. Ahead they saw three dark alleys. They both began to run, and then darted into the middle alley. They used their cable launchers to get onto the top of the warehouse, so that they could see who was tailing them.
"It's Hansel," Anakin said, finally seeing the Romin tailing them. "Come on."
He jumped to an overhang below, then down to the street directly in front of Hansel. Ferus followed a split second later.
Hansel gave a small yelp and jumped backward in fright.
"Looking for us?" Anakin asked pleasantly.
Hansel tried to disguise his involuntary start of fear. He coughed and straightened his robes. "Ah, as a matter of fact, yes." He looked at them, his golden eyes speculative. "I did not expect to have to follow you here."
"Just doing a little sight-seeing," Ferus said.
"Let me assure both of you," Hansel said, "there are better sights to be seen. A curious choice, on your part."
"We want to see everything," Anakin said with a shrug. "What can we do for you?" Anakin asked.
"I am to deliver an invitation," Hansel said. "To Slam and Valadon. And the two of you, of course. Great Leader Teda is having a reception tomorrow evening and wishes you all to attend. Everyone will be there. You will meet many like yourselves."
"We accept, with pleasure," Ferus said.
"Be sure to give the message to Valadon," Hansel said. "Teda especially wishes her to be there."
"She wouldn't miss it," Anakin said, thinking she would greatly prefer to miss it.
"I will inform Great Leader Teda," Hansel said. "Now, no doubt you would like to continue your . . . sight-seeing."
He bowed and walked off, moving quickly.
"An invitation could've been sent to our villa. He suspects us of something," Ferus said.
"He just doesn't know what," Anakin agreed, "but we'll be gone before he figures it out. Well, I guess we should head back."
"I guess," Ferus said. "It's hard to know when we're done, isn't it? We had no clear objective. I like a clear objective. Otherwise I feel like I'm getting it wrong."
Anakin looked at him curiously as they began to walk. "I didn't think you ever thought you were wrong."
"I know that's what other Padawans think. It's because I try not to let it show. Don't you?"
Anakin snapped his mouth shut. Just when he thought he'd have a normal conversation with Ferus, he got caught up short again. Ferus was trying to trap him. He wanted him to admit weakness so he'd have something on him.
"This whole mission is unclear," Ferus went on, not realizing that Anakin had stiffened beside him. "I'll be happy when—"
The Force surged again. But this time it was too late. Caught up in their conversation and the relief of finding that it was only Hansel who had tailed them, they had let down their guard.
Their attackers came from behind on airspeeders. They used cables to knock Anakin and Ferus off their feet. Black hoods were thrown over their heads and tied shut.
Anakin rolled away from their attackers and rose to his feet in one fluid motion, ready to fight but not revealing his lightsaber. They had to retain their cover as part of the Slam gang . . . which meant they actually probably should allow themselves to be kidnapped, rather than fight back. Hopefully Ferus would think the same thing.
He felt himself being shoved into a vehicle. Ferus hit the seat next to him.
"Any ideas?" Ferus grunted in a whisper.
"We might as well see who kidnapped us, and why," Anakin whispered back. "I think you just got your clear objective, Ferus."
A snort came from under Ferus's hood. "I would have preferred a different method, but thanks."
It was a much longer journey by speeder than Anakin would have thought, but it mattered little when his hood was suddenly wrenched off, and he smelled the dank and murky air that wasn't much better than hot air from under the hood. A bright light was in his eyes, and the rest of the room was in deep shadow. Anakin tensed, as if for a blow.
"Relax. We don't want to hurt you. We want to hire you. For stang's sake, B, turn off that light."
The light went out, leaving the only light coming from a few small windows. The floor was hard-packed dirt and had water pooled in various spots. A Romin male emerged from the shadows. He was tall and slender. The rest of the group stayed in the shadows.
"Sorry for the method," the tall Romin said. He pointed to Anakin's mask. "At least you are used to masks."
"Not really," Anakin said.
"We can't exactly issue nice personal invitations the way our Great Leader can. We needed to talk to you, and we needed to do it without any prying eyes or ears. We have a proposition."
"Who are you?" Ferus asked.
"My name is Joylin," the Romin answered. He brought a chair over by hooking his foot over the rail and dragging it. He sat astride, facing them. "I am the leader of the resistance on this planet. My face and name are well known to Teda. There's no need for concealment. My compatriots, however, are less well known and will remain hidden from you. The only thing you need to know is that there are many of us, and we do not all reside beyond the wall."
"What do you want with us?" Anakin asked. "We only just arrived on Romin."
"Exactly," Joylin said. "You do not yet have ties here. You have no friends, no loyalties. So you don't need to betray anyone to help us. Instead, you will do a straight trade. We will pay you, and you will help us."
"Why should we help you?" Ferus asked.
"Because you are thieves, and we will pay you," Joylin said impatiently. "And if you wish to remain on Romin, it would be a good idea to be on the winning side."
"The winning side? Are you going up against Teda and expecting to win?" Ferus looked around at the decaying structure. He was playing the game well, Anakin thought.
"We will win because we have to win," Joylin spoke without anger, without bravado. "What never fails to amuse me is when beings underestimate the power of desperation."
Both Padawans said nothing.
Joylin spread his arms. "This is how we live on the other side of the wall. This is a typical dwelling. The only difference is, two or three families are usually crowded within its walls. Disease is rampant. Many of our children die before their second birthday. The ones who survive have no hope of getting better than a menial position, of traveling to the city once a day to rake a lawn, clean a sewer, fix a dataport."
"We have nothing to do with your troubles," Ferus said.
"Ah, of course not. You just take advantage of them. You accept the offer of a tyrant for a hideout."
Anakin broke in. "Are you going to insult us or offer us a job?"
A strained smile creased Joylin's face. "Right. Okay, here is the offer. We'll pay double your going rate for stealing a certain piece of information at Teda's villa. We've been waiting for the right events to coincide, and at last they have. Teda is giving a big reception, and thieves with special skills have arrived on Romin."
"You want us to steal from Teda?" Ferus blustered. "Forget it!"
"What do you want us to steal?" Anakin asked quickly.
"A small item from his private office," Joylin said. "It contains information that will guarantee our success. Within a short time we will be able to take over the government. Which means you will be the only group of criminals allowed to stay on Romin. Each member of your gang will be given lifetime citizenship. As long as you don't break Romin's laws, you'll be welcome here."
"Keep talking," Anakin said. "We need more to take back to our boss."
"We happen to know that in Teda's study there is a list of codes that control the security gates to all official government offices and residences, as well as the sheltered criminals."
"How do you know he has the codes in his residence?" Ferus asked.
"You will have to trust that our information is accurate," Joylin said. "We have someone on the inside."
"Can that someone help us get into the palace?" Anakin asked.
"No," Joylin said. "We can't compromise our agents. Besides, you don't need help. You have an invitation to a reception, don't you? That is the night we want you to steal the codes."
"How do you know we've been invited?" Ferus challenged.
"We know," Joylin said. "I told you, there are many of us. Enough to ensure success, if we strike quickly and decisively."
Anakin looked at Ferus and knew they were both on the same page. They needed more information, and they would work together to get it.
Ferus shook his head. "I'm sorry, but we have to refuse."
Joylin's face tightened. "Can you tell me your objections?"
"Delighted," Ferus said. "You're asking us to stake our future on a bet. That normally wouldn't be a problem. We risk our future all the time. However, you're asking us to make a powerful man our enemy, just when he's offered us safe refuge."
"This is not a safe refuge," Joylin argued. "I assure you, your protection will disappear. Unless you throw your support to the ultimate winners."
"But if we don't steal the codes, you have no chance," Ferus argued back.
"There will still be a revolt," Joylin said. "It just won't be bloodless. You will be in more danger the other way, because I won't protect you."
"We still need more information," Anakin said carefully. "Surely you can see that we can't simply take your word for what you say."
"I'm hardly about to compromise the safety of those in the resistance just to reassure you," Joylin said.
"We're not asking you to reveal identities or secrets," Anakin told him, "but what makes you think you can overthrow Teda so easily? When are you going to do it? What will happen when you do? You are asking us to trust you. You must trust us. We are taking a risk for you. You must do the same."
Joylin hesitated. He looked at both of them. He did not glance behind at the watching, shadowy group.
'It's his decision,' Anakin thought. 'He's the boss.'
"The revolt is to be the night of the reception," Joylin said.
Someone behind him gasped. Someone else said, "No!"
Joylin only half turned. "We must tell them! Once they know, they will help us." He turned back to Anakin and Ferus. "We'll start by disrupting communication systems—just some low-level interference at first. We have already infiltrated Teda's Security Management Control. We have one chance to sabotage the CIP controls for the droid army that Teda uses to control the city and guard the wall. If we strike that blow simultaneously with the capture of all government officials and Teda himself, we can win without bloodshed. We'll simply lock the officials and their personal troops inside their houses. Without the officials, without the droid army, we can take over."
Ferus and Anakin didn't say anything for a moment.
"You can assure us that the droid army will be in your control?" Ferus asked.
"Yes."
"You will pay us double the rate?" Anakin asked. He gave them a number.
"We have it. It has taken years," Joylin said. "Every family, every individual, has gone without in order to feed our treasury."
"We're not interested in how you got it," Ferus said with a wave of his hand, "but we need assurance for ourselves that you do have it. Half before, half after the revolt."
"Agreed," Joylin said.
"We need more detailed information on where we can find the codes," Anakin said, all business now.
"You'll get it."
Anakin and Ferus nodded. "We must take this back to Slam and Valadon," Anakin said. "We will need a way to contact you."
"We will be contacting you tomorrow morning," Joylin said. "Don't look for us. We'll be there. Now, I'll escort you as far as the wall."
Anakin and Ferus stood. "Just one more thing," Anakin said.
Joylin looked at him. With a deal so close to being made, his anxiety had increased. Anakin could feel it humming like a charge in the air.
"We are interested in one of the residents here," Anakin continued casually. "A scientist named Jenna Zan Arbor. You must guarantee safe passage for her off-planet. We will arrange transportation."
Ferus's eyes flickered with surprise at Anakin's proposal.
"That is not a problem," Joylin said. "As long as you are in."
**The Will of the Force**
"He tells us there is no risk, but of course there is risk," Ferus said later that evening. Obi-Wan, Siri, Anakin, and Ferus had eaten a meal around a tiled table in a small, lovely room overlooking the garden.
"It's a risk worth taking," Anakin said.
Obi-Wan was glad to hear that there was not the usual edge in his voice. Anakin was disagreeing with Ferus, but he was doing so without resentment. A vast improvement.
He kept only half his attention on the argument. The rest of him was focused on Zan Arbor's holofiles. He had read every word of the uncoded files, enough to tell that she was planning a new operation, this time with partners. Despite his best efforts and even help from the Temple, they had been unable to break the code as of yet, but he knew the Temple was still working on it, using methods that he didn't have the time to do himself.
"If we help them, we will be actively supporting an overthrow of power on a planet," Ferus said. "We have no Senate authorization to do so."
"We are not the ones overthrowing Teda," Anakin objected, "and the citizens of Romin are suffering. If we can help them and achieve our mission, why shouldn't we?"
"Because it can get out of control," Ferus argued. "Joylin can surprise us. We don't know anything about this resistance movement. We don't know who they are or what they want, apart from overthrowing Teda."
"They are an established resistance group," Siri broke in. "I contacted Jocasta Nu to ask about them. They have been put down in brutal reprisals, but the movement has been growing steadily in response to Teda's crackdowns. Madame Nu believes there may be support within Teda's government as well. They, too, are tired of living in fear. Teda's prisons are notorious and overcrowded, and you earn a harsh sentence if you displease him. She would not be surprised if many in the army desert. Many of them have families who live outside the wall. They know firsthand the misery and poverty there."
"You see?" Anakin said. "Joylin and his group are fighting for justice. As we are. We can help them and bring Zan Arbor back to the prison world. You're making this complicated, Ferus. It isn't."
Suddenly a message came through from the Temple, and he opened it up seeing a that they had managed to decode Zan Arbor's password. He keyed in the password and smiled as it worked.
His attention to the conversation faded. A chill ran over him seeing the name of Zan Arbor's partner . . . a name he hadn't expected to see.
Granta Omega.
Even in their correspondence, they were careful. He couldn't tell what they had planned or where, other than a large planet in the Core, but he could tell that whatever it was would net them wealth and influence.
Siri's voice broke through his thoughts.
"I've listened to you both very carefully, as has Obi-Wan," she said, shooting him a chastising look, for it was impossible for him to hide from her that he hadn't been paying attention in the least. "You both make valid points. We must make a decision, however. I think we should go ahead and help Joylin's group. Obi-Wan?"
"There is another factor we must consider," Obi-Wan said. "These files indicate that Zan Arbor is in league with Granta Omega."
"Omega!" Anakin exclaimed in surprise.
Obi-Wan met Siri's eyes. She nodded.
"We are going to help the resistance," Obi-Wan said. "We will take the risk. We need to get Zan Arbor off this planet. We only have tomorrow before our cover could be blown. The best chance we have is if she thinks her safety here is compromised. We will offer her a way out. She will have to take it. There is only one thing."
Siri cocked an eyebrow at him.
"We might not want to take her to the prison planet," he continued. "If we do it right, she could lead us to Omega himself."
"We would have to contact Mace," Siri said, but he could feel her agreement.
Obi-Wan nodded. "I think he would agree. I'll contact him tonight. It will help us if he can start working on Senate approval for us to help the revolt, but it won't come in time."
Suddenly, their mission had grown in importance. Granta Omega could be within their grasp again.
"We can decide where to take Zan Arbor another time," Obi-Wan said, "but we should all agree that if we can track Omega through her, we will."
"I agree," Siri said quietly.
"I do, too," Anakin said.
Ferus nodded.
"Now let's all get some sleep," Obi-Wan said.
Nevertheless, he knew he would not.
**The Will of the Force**
Romin had only one moon, but it was a large, luminous satellite. The moon's light along with the impending mission and everything that went with it was enough that Siri struggled with sleep for the night. She wasn't the only one as Obi-Wan had gotten up not moments before.
She was frustrated he had left. The calm sound of his heart and fully melding their bond and focusing on it was a great way to fall asleep and she had been ready to suggest it when he pulled away from her and made his way out of the room.
She knew there was a lot on both of their minds, and she figured talking it over was probably the best way for them both to get some sleep. At the very least, she had a very effective way for them to both burn some energy if they needed to. It never failed to leave them both satisfied and content in their bond.
Finally deciding she'd grab Obi-Wan so that they could have their needed discussion, Siri pushed the covers off of herself and started making her way out of the room and towards where Obi-Wan was in the garden when she realized that he wasn't alone. She hadn't noticed him immediately, with her focus being on Obi-Wan, but now she could clearly feel her lover talking to her Padawan.
She should leave it alone . . . let them talk in private, but she also wondered if this could be a key to a greater understanding of her Padawan, his problems with Anakin, and perhaps even Obi-Wan could rub off on Ferus in a way that she hadn't been able to.
She closed her eyes and focused on their bond. It wasn't hard. If anything, it would have been harder to keep them out, now that she felt Obi-Wan's thoughts inevitably trail to her since he was talking to Ferus.
"We face a great enemy," Ferus said. "And now we find that she's met with a greater one."
"Exactly," Obi-Wan agreed.
"And that is why you and my Master made your decision this evening," Ferus said.
"You don't agree." Obi-Wan spoke carefully.
"I don't disagree," Ferus said. "I recognize that I don't have the experience to refute what you say."
Obi-Wan stifled a sigh, and Siri couldn't help but feel some sympathy for her lover, while also feeling some protective instincts towards Ferus because of what Obi-Wan was thinking.
"I sense your impatience," Ferus went on. "You think I only say the correct thing just to impress you or my Master."
"I don't think that," Obi-Wan said. "Well, not exactly."
"Can I help it if the Jedi wisdom I have learned by rote speaks to my heart?" Ferus asked. "I don't say things because they will please you. I say them because I feel they are true. It's always been that way, from my earliest memory of the Temple. When I was taught, it was as though I already knew. Every Jedi lesson seemed to fit a groove inside my mind that had already been worn. It was why learning was so easy for me."
"You have a great connection to the Force," Obi-Wan said. "No doubt that is why."
"So does Anakin," Ferus pointed out. "Far greater than mine. I can see that. Yet he did not have the problems I did at the Temple. He has made great friends there."
Siri felt Obi-Wan's surprise, and she knew that he was about to get a deeper insight into her Padawan, one few others had.
"But you were popular in your class. Everyone looked up to you," Obi-Wan pointed out.
"Yes, I was the one whom everybody liked, but whom nobody wanted to talk to. I was welcome at every table in the eating areas, but not invited to any particular one. Everyone was my friend, but nobody was my particular friend." Ferus picked some grass and let it fall idly through his fingers. "I've heard the names they call me. A tunic stuffed with feathers and the Force. The ruler of Planet Dull."
Obi-Wan frowned, and she felt his own irritation and match hers, his own anger and disappointment with Ferus's fellow Padawans match her own. It was true, children could be cruel, and Jedi children were no different.
Things tended to get better once they were actual Padawans. The competitiveness faded by quite a bit and Jedi teams had to learn to rely on each other, but it was still hard at times. Siri and Obi-Wan were lucky. They had good relations with many of their agemates and spoke to them often. Anakin, Ferus, Darra, Tru, and the others hadn't yet reached that stage. The way they were was what Kastor was working so hard to change and had achieved quite well among the Knights in Siri and Obi-Wan's age range and even among other Knights and Masters, but it hadn't yet translated to the Padawans.
Ferus waved a hand. "It's alright. It's all true, isn't it? I've never been able to joke like the others. I know I can be pompous, too correct. I never learned how to tease the other students. They came to me for help with their studies, they looked to me for answers, but no one wanted to be my friend. Not my true friend, the way Anakin has Tru and Darra."
Siri felt some sorrow for her Padawan. This was not new to her. She knew this all and did her best to help him, but some things took time. She herself had been popular when she was younger, and yet similarly she'd never really had any true friends . . . not until Obi-Wan, who had opened up his world to her.
"You will find friendships later in life," Obi-Wan said, after a pause. "Friendships are hard to maintain for the Jedi. It is why we treasure them. Let go of your longing, and what you want will come. Your master and I didn't truly become friends until many years after we'd first met. You'll be surprised how many things will change with time."
"Or else I am meant to stay the way I am," Ferus said. "I wish I had what Anakin has. His connection to the Force is strong, yet he also connects to beings very strongly."
"Yes," Obi-Wan agreed. "I've seen this. It's something Qui-Gon Jinn had, too."
"I know that Anakin will never be my friend. He knows I fear for him. I give him warnings when I know I shouldn't, when I know it's none of my business. So he resents me. I thought in the beginning . . . since I was a little older . . . that I could tell him things that other students couldn't. It's just I see things a fellow student would see."
Siri could feel Obi-Wan fighting his protective instincts about Anakin. She could tell he truly did want to hear what Ferus had to say, but was struggling to believe that Ferus could truly understand Anakin.
"And what do you see, Ferus?"
"I fear for him," Ferus said quietly. "To admire him and feel fear for him at the same time didn't make sense to me. It took me a long time to understand why I feared for him. I wanted to be sure there was no envy in it."
"Do you envy him?" Obi-Wan asked.
"I suppose all the students do, in a way," Ferus said. "He is the Chosen One. What worries me though is his will." Ferus hesitated. "His power is so great that he thinks his judgment is as well. You saw his arguments tonight. He sees something is right, so therefore he must do it. He argues against you without hearing you. He thinks he can change situations, beings. Maybe he can't do it alone, not yet. Someday he will. Should we trust someone who always believes he speaks with the voice of absolute right?"
'That is it,' Siri could hear Obi-Wan's thoughts. 'That is what I see.'
She could tell that he was surprised that one of Anakin's peers had voiced it. She realized Obi-Wan was seeing more of who Ferus was and who he could become. His judgment was far more mature than one would expect of his age. The problem was exactly as Obi-Wan was thinking though. Ferus saw much, but he didn't fully understand everything. Not yet.
"You are very observant, Ferus, but you must accept that I know him better than you," Obi-Wan said carefully. "Anakin can be arrogant. I know that. However he is also learning and growing. He is respectful of his great power. He is younger than you, but he has seen much injustice and experienced many terrible things. Is it wrong that he wishes to change things? You must understand that it isn't ambition that drives him. It is compassion."
Ferus nodded slowly. "I will think about what you said." He stood. "Good night, Master Kenobi."
"Good night, Ferus," Obi-Wan said.
Siri waited for Ferus to move back towards his room before she moved out to where Obi-Wan was trying to reflect on what Ferus had said, and how it matched his own fears. She could feel it warring with his desire to guard his newly refound confidence in Anakin.
"You have a very gifted apprentice," Obi-Wan said.
"As do you," Siri replied. "We both know that they both have faults and yet both see clearly at times as well."
"They do and they don't," Obi-Wan agreed. "Anakin doesn't see Ferus as clearly as I think Ferus sees Anakin, but Ferus overlooks some key fundamentals of Anakin. Anakin doesn't see Ferus's struggles, just as I didn't. He doesn't allow his compassion to push past his envy and competitiveness with Ferus."
"And you thought about exactly what Ferus doesn't see in Anakin, yet still you fear," Siri said.
"Yes, yes I do," Obi-Wan admitted. "Do you think I'm wrong?"
"I think you walk a thin line," Siri said softly. "Anakin does not receive the attention he is probably due because the Order doesn't want to treat him differently, but inherently many do treat him differently."
Siri reached down and grabbed Obi-Wan's hand tenderly.
"It's not fair to you or him," she continued. "He doesn't see that some treat him differently unintentionally just because they have high hopes for him or because they see his potential. Some treat him differently because they are skeptical or wary. He just sees that it's different and his childhood means he assumes the worst . . . and you need to be the one to show him your support."
Obi-Wan stared into her eyes, and she could see in his blueish-grey eyes that her words were touching exactly what he wanted and yet feared to hear. Siri moved her other hand to his jawline.
"Perhaps that does mean that you are overprotective, and perhaps you don't always see Anakin's faults or treat them as stringently as you should, but you do see who he is and who he can become," Siri said firmly. "I think Anakin is an amazing young man and I believe he will be an incredible Jedi someday. Between you, Kastor, me, Fay, Adi . . . all of our friends, we'll help you. Ferus is young. He sees deep, but doesn't yet have the knowledge and experience to temper his thoughts. Anakin has experienced such pain, seen such great injustice, and it has colored his opinions of right and wrong. They are young, Obi. They will learn and grow and someday both will be the Jedi we know they will be."
Obi-Wan brought his hand up to Siri's hand that was on his jaw and grabbed her hand tenderly.
"You know I love you, right?"
Siri chuckled.
"Of course you do, and I love you too. Now, let's get to bed. We have a long day ahead of us."
"You're right, Siri . . . and thank you."
"Always."