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Author	Topic: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
Calayka_Bele Registered: Nov '00	Date Posted: 6/11/03 10:36am Subject: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette - Date Edited: 6/11/03 12:56pm (1 edits total) Edited By: Calayka_Bele
	Hey everyone. I wrote this story roughly a year ago, and just recently re-did it. It's a lot longer than I originally planned, but hopefully you'll like it! Disclaimer: All these charaters belong to George Lucas and some dialogue comes from various New Jedi Order and Young Jedi Knight books. I am making no money off the story. Rated: G Feedback: I always appreciate any advice you can give me. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “If Only Tears Could Bring You Back…” The full, gleaming moon shone high above the planet Hapes. The lunar light reflected off a pond, softly highlighting the small ripples. With a tranquil breeze rustling the leaves in the trees, the beautiful night was complete. Everything looked and felt peaceful and serene. However, inside the gleaming Hapan palace, in the room of the princess, the atmosphere was quite different. Tenel Ka sat by her open window gazing out at the planet of Hapes. The planet she could rule. Throughout her life, there had always been a constant pressure for her to follow her lineage and assume her place on the Hapan throne. Ta’ a Chume, had persisted in every way she knew how to push the crown onto her warrior granddaughter, yet Tenel Ka had a will almost as strong and had resisted every effort. Rather than pursuing a royal training, Tenel Ka had followed first the way of a Dathomir warrior and then that of a Jedi. These memories were the furthest thoughts from the young red-haired girl’s mind however. * Jacen sat down next to her, the famous “Solo grin” lighting his face. “Hey Tenel Ka, do you want to hear a joke?” The young warrior felt a surge of warmth cascade through her. At the mere mention of this young Jedi’s name, Tenel Ka experienced this sensation. It wasn’t unpleasant and made her feel like never before, as if all was right within the galaxy. Although she would never think of telling anyone, she found Jacen’s jokes to be quite enjoyable, despite her indifferent act. Tenel Ka nodded, “Alright.” Jacen flashed another grin, making Tenel’s stomach do a strange flip-flop. “Okay. Why are pit droids so popular?” he paused for dramatic effect, “Because they’re always making new friends!” Tenel Ka rolled her eyes. * Her few years at the Jedi Academy had been among the happiest of her life. The old temple had always felt safe, and more like a home than any place before. Tenel Ka had at one time believed that together with the Solo twins and Lowbacca, the young Jedi could accomplish anything, and overcome any obstacle. Up until recently, that conviction had still been firmly set in her mind. * Jacen and Tenel Ka stood facing each other, their newly made lightsabers in hand. Jaina and Lowbacca had just completed their first true sparring match, and now Tenel Ka was itching to try her own saber. Jacen continually cracked jokes, the result of nerves, but the young warrior would not be distracted. Every one of her muscles was tuned, and ready. No one could break down her defenses. Tenel Ka was sure that any flaws her weapon had could easily be accommodated for by her skills as a warrior. The thrusts and parries quickly grew more intense, each friend unwilling to be “weaker”. Neither would admit that they were slowly tiring. It was then that tragedy struck. Tenel Ka, in an attempt to prove herself, switched her lightsaber to her left hand, simply wishing to show her capability. Jacen, ever in competition, followed her example. Within moments he had his saber pressed forcefully against hers, both furiously trying to outlast the other. There was simply no warning, no time for reaction. Suddenly, Tenel Ka’s shimmering blade winked out, leaving nothing to support the pressure of Jacen. Before he could process what was happening, his blade sliced straight through the space where her lightsaber had been moments before, and cut right through her arm. * Tenel Ka winced at the memory of the pain, and looked down at her dismembered limb. It had taken some adjustment, but over time she had learned to live her life without it. Just after the accident however, she had thought her life was over. Upon hearing of her granddaughter’s ordeal, Ta’ a Chume swiftly transported her to Hapes, in the hopes that now the young Dathomiri warrior would finally accept her right as ruler. However, she would be disappointed once again. * Tenel Ka sat on Jacen’s bed, laughing without restraint. Never before had she laughed so hard. Jacen stood by the window, staring awkwardly at her. Since he had first met this princess he had made it his personal goal to make her laugh openly. However, now that she was, he wasn’t entirely sure how to react. After a few minutes, Tenel Ka finally regained control and her eyes met Jacen’s. “We are always competing Jacen, must we also argue over whose fault it was?” Her eyes glistened with tears. Jacen smiled weakly and seated himself next to her. Neither knew what to say, and the awkward silence stretched for what seemed an eternity. Finally he found his voice, “I really am sorry.” From her eyes spilt forward more tears, no longer present simply from her laughter. Tenel Ka struggled in vain to keep her emotions in check. Without another word Jacen leaned forward and gently wrapped his arms around her, enveloping her in a tight embrace. The red-haired girl, no longer restraining her emotions, returned the gesture, and let the tears fall freely. * Tenel could practically still feel the warmth of her friend’s arms. Her chest heaved and as in the memory her eyes flooded once again. ‘No’, she told herself firmly, ‘I will not cry!’ The war against the Vong had not yet been won, and until the fighting had ceased she hat to remain strong. Like Jacen had always been. For Jacen. There was sudden sharp rap on the door, making Tenel Ka jump ever so slightly. She rubbed violently at her eyes to rid all traces of any tears. Slowly she opened the door, hoping she didn’t look as vulnerable as she felt. The last person she expected to see stood before her. Jaina Solo looked oddly small, and her usually confident aura was practically nonexistent. “Can I come in?” There was a not of apprehension in her voice, and she held a small package. Slightly taken aback by this different side of Jaina, Tenel Ka could simply manage a nod. She stood aside to let the young Solo through. “Thanks.” She turned to face the Hapan princess, but said nothing more. Tenel Ka remained standing also and studied the girl before her. These two girls had been through so much together, and had always shared a bond of friendship, yet were never as close as Tenel Ka and Jacen. No real reason was behind this, life was just like that at times. Tenel saw none of the anger or hate that recently had been occupying Jaina’s body and mind. Sadness was all Tenel Ka could detect. The silence was…suffocating. Unable to stand it any longer she spoke. “Why are you here?” A small smile flitted across Jaina’s face, “As blunt as ever. At least some things will always remain the same.” She took a step forward, her hand outstretched, holding out the small parcel. “I just wanted to give you this.” The young warrior took it in her one hand and gazed at it curiously, “What is it?” Jaina rolled her eyes, “Why don’t you open it and find out.” Having received few gifts in her lifetime, Tenel Ka unwrapped it carefully, as if trying to preserve the moment. She didn’t no what to expect, but it certainly wasn’t what she found. Inside the neatly wrapped flimsy was a beautiful, handcrafted pendant. It was roughly an inch high and circular in shape. Little symbols were neatly etched onto it. “I…” Jaina paused to gain control of her voice, “I found it among his possessions aboard the Falcon. He wanted you to have it.” Tenel Ka was at a loss for words. It was a simple gift, yet was more precious to her than any jewel. For the third time that night tears began to well up in her eyes, and for once she did nothing to prevent them. “I don’t…I…” The warrior choked, and said finally, “Thank you. I really appreciate you bringing this to me.” Jaina simply nodded, her eyes also full of tears. Before Tenel could process what was happening, the young Solo’s arms were around her shoulders in a tight embrace. Without a thought she returned the gesture. “Thank you,” she muttered again into Jaina’s shoulder. Her only response was another nod. After a few moments the two girls finally broke apart and Jaina managed a weak smile. No more was said, and she left in a hurry. Tenel Ka stood staring at the open door, lost in thought. Images flashed through her mind as she remembered times past. She stepped forward and slowly closed the door. The beautiful pendant was still clasped tightly in her hand, and shifted her gaze to study it more closely. To her surprise, lying underneath it was a second piece of flimsy, folded many times over. Intrigued, she placed the necklace onto a small table, and then unfolded the note. As she recognized the writing her heart fluttered, and she drew in a sharp intake of breath. My dearest Tenel Ka- If you’re reading g this it probably means something went wrong on our mission, and that for whatever reason I was unable to return with you. Before we left, I told Jaina where to find this, in case something happened. I guess something happened. Tenel Ka, you have always been the strongest person I know. Ever since we met at the Jedi Academy, I’ve felt drawn to you. Through the good times and the bad, you’ve always been there to pull me together, and be the voice of reason. I’ve always truly believed that together we could accomplish anything. You have to know that I love you with all of my being. You’re inside me, complete me, and will forever more. This pendant is a symbol of that love. I carved it out of a soft stone found on my mom’s home planet. She gave it to me to use as I please. In its natural form, it can be easily manipulated, but once it is heated to a certain temperature, then allowed time to cool it is virtually unbreakable. This is how I view our friendship, as being unbreakable. Please realize that no matter what happens, I will always be with you, and will always love you. Continue to be strong and never give up. Trust the force and it will guide you. You’re my everything…I love you. Forever yours, Jacen Closing her eyes she lowered herself to the floor, and leaned her head back against the door. “Jacen, I can’t do this without you,” And finally, she let the tears flow. She did not sob, but tears cascaded down her cheeks. All the emotions she had kept pent up within her for the past few days were released. * Jacen shook his head, “That was a mistake. A bad one.” Tenel Ka bumped her shoulder against his, “Fact. But there is no need to sulk. I will always be fond of you.” His face paled, “You think he’s that angry?” Tenel Ka rolled her eyes. “It was a joke, Jacen.” “Ah.” Jacen said thoughtfully, “Aha. You have a lot to learn about jokes.” * Jacen finished explaining his plan and got ready to set it into motion. Tenel KA didn’t like this not at all. However, the logical part of her mind told her it could work so she refrained from voicing her doubts. The creature called Vergere stood to the side gazing at them impatiently. There was so much that Tenel Ka wanted to tell Jacen. So much she had to say, but there simply wasn’t enough time. She took a deep breath and stepped forward, prepared to do the only thing she thought suitable, but Vergere intercepted her. “If you’re going to do this, get on with it,” she said. Jacen rolled his eyes then winked at the red-haired warrior. He flashed her one final, lop-sided grin, and then was gone. *** There were so many memories, good and bad. Tenel Ka wouldn’t trade them for the galaxy. As Jacen had said, she had always been the strong one. The good warrior, loyal friend, serious one, and the person you could always count on. As the days would continue to come and go, and as for as long as the war lasted, she would fight. Fight in the memory of Jacen until he returned to her. Using the force she called the lovely pendant to her and slipped the cord over her head. Yes, she would be strong, but tonight she would simply mourn the loss of her best friend and only love. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Well there you go. Please let me know what you think. I hope you like it! ~Calayka -----signature----- "And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud And I know that you'll use them, however you want to." ~Anna Nalick "Breathe (2AM)"
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Rogue11JS Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/11/03 2:19pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	THAT WAS AMAZING!!! Wow What is it with everyone and having sad posts today???!!! Yours is great though i hope you write more. ! -----signature----- Proud Jedi Master Of TenelKaJedi-RIP my friend JEDI BLOOPERS: http://boards.theforce.net/Beyond_the_Saga/b10477/11488158/?474 Dont mess with me and my 64 personalities My life or hers:http://boards.theforce.net/Beyond_the_Saga/b10477/11343662/?420 Yub
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Elven_Jedi_Maiden Registered: Apr '03	Date Posted: 6/11/03 3:08pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Ohhh... poor Tenel Ka!!! Awesome description of what I imagine her feelings must have been. The worst part is knowing that she WILL get him back, only to lose him again. -----signature----- Save the Earth. It's the only planet with chocolate. Jag and Danni stink.. I love Legolas and Zekk!!! J/Z, J/TK, and L/M die hard Adoptee to LadyMairead
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Calayka_Bele Registered: Nov '00	Date Posted: 6/11/03 3:59pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Thank you guys! I was a little nervous about posting one of my fics, but you've both given me confidence. Thank you so much! Rogue11JS, I have a few more ideas for vignettes that will hopefully get written. Thanks! Elven_Jedi_Maiden, I know what you mean! I was so disappointed when in Destiny's Way Jacen and Tenel Ka didn't have a big reunion. Hhmmm....maybe I'll have to write one myself. Thanks alot! -----signature----- "And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud And I know that you'll use them, however you want to." ~Anna Nalick "Breathe (2AM)"
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Rogue11JS Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 6/11/03 4:07pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Your welcome! Thats cool I like writting vigs! In fact i have a whole thread full of them. Of course they all have one goal in common. Making fun of every aspect of Star Wars. Its so much fun to do so. -----signature----- Proud Jedi Master Of TenelKaJedi-RIP my friend JEDI BLOOPERS: http://boards.theforce.net/Beyond_the_Saga/b10477/11488158/?474 Dont mess with me and my 64 personalities My life or hers:http://boards.theforce.net/Beyond_the_Saga/b10477/11343662/?420 Yub
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JainaDurron Registered: Aug '02	Date Posted: 6/11/03 6:51pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Such a sad viggie, wonderful. ~~Jilly -----signature----- Qeryné, Handmaiden of the Crest Beta for Midnight_Jedi and Amidala_Skywalker Proud K/Jer (Rogue and Goddess); Twin Suns Lead- KDFC Winner for Best Romance Beyond the Saga, SFFA K/J is love!!!
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Calayka_Bele Registered: Nov '00	Date Posted: 6/11/03 7:26pm Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Thanks! -----signature----- "And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud And I know that you'll use them, however you want to." ~Anna Nalick "Breathe (2AM)"
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JainaJag00 Registered: Aug '02	Date Posted: 6/12/03 6:44am Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	wow. that was really amazing. u know- i think u should do a sequal fic. ;-) -jj00 -----signature----- Jag and Jaina forever!!!!!! Look in my bio for links to my stories/viggies! http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=10145097 A Niruaun Night- J/J Coming sometime in the future: The Final Force: Lost and Solo by JJ00 and TBF!
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Soulwalker Registered: Mar '03	Date Posted: 6/12/03 8:30am Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette
	Damn...that was depressing, but good! :'( Very nicely written, C_B... :'( -----signature----- Stolen Chance (NJO, J/TK, Updated 5/26): http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=10971166 Chiss Wing Commander/Chiss Lead of the NJO Fan Club "This is the shameful secret of the Jedi: There is no dark side." - Vergere
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Calayka_Bele Registered: Nov '00	Date Posted: 6/12/03 9:13am Subject: RE: If Only Tears Could Bring You Back~Tenel Ka vignette - Date Edited: 6/12/03 9:45am (2 edits total) Edited By: Calayka_Bele
	JainaJag00, thanks! I do have another Tenel Ka/Jacen vignette in mind, that chronologically would follow this one. Now it's just a matter of writing it.... Soulwalker thanks for the compliment! I'd just like to thank everyone who has read this fic so far. I'm glad you all seem to like it and appreciate your replies! -----signature----- "And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd Cause these words are my diary, screaming out loud And I know that you'll use them, however you want to." ~Anna Nalick "Breathe (2AM)"
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