| Author |
Topic:
KOTOR: A Shared Vision (Mandalorian War Saga Book 1) FINISHED-EDIT COMPLETE 4-21-07
|
drevan1138
Registered:
Apr '06
|
Date Posted:
10/25/06 4:41pm
Subject:
KOTOR: A Shared Vision (Mandalorian War Saga Book 1) FINISHED-EDIT COMPLETE 4-21-07
- Date Edited:
6/7/07 12:16pm (46 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
|
(Click here to see full size)
Title: A Shared Vision
Timeframe: 3964 BBY (approximately 8 years before KOTOR)
Genre: Action/Adventure/Drama
Main Characters: Lorn Revan and Rais (pronounced Race) Malak.
OCs: Antil Roon, Merk Vallun, and Azure Skrit.
Cameos from: Arren Kae, Zayne Carrick, and Lucien Draay.
Summary: As war brews and a galactic conspiracy unfolds, two young Jedi find their fates intertwined with the destiny of the galaxy.
PM List
WyoJedi
Jedi_Drizzt
noevilmusic
Ulic_Starwalker
Svebor
Will_of_the_Sith
_Kris_
Obi-gone
sdhfs
This was my first attempt at fan fiction so bear with me, the writing gets better as we go along. I want to become a better writer so any and all comments would be appreciated.
Currently I'm working on the sequel and I hope to write an entire series with probably around six or seven books leading up to the events of the first game. I also want to keep this as much in line with the EU as possible (which will be increasingly difficult as more KOTOR comics are released and possibly KOTOR III one day). So if you spot any continuity errors, please PM me.
I hope you enjoy!
-----signature-----
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
drevan1138
Registered:
Apr '06
|
Date Posted:
10/25/06 4:43pm
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 9:36am (5 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
|
This entire story has been edited since its first posting. The edits consisted mainly of characterization improvements and point-of-view shifts. The major events remain unchanged. I hope the changes improve the story.
One
“Revan.”
Although no more than a mental whisper, his master's call came clearly from the furthest reaches of the galaxy. He would obey this time as he had before, although with the passing of each day he felt less inclined to consider himself her pupil. His power was growing.
As far as the Jedi Council was concerned, it had been three years since his apprenticeship had ended. He was now a full Jedi Knight, one who could take on a learner of his own. Instead he found himself the learner, a student of the Force. A student of Master Kae.
There was a time when she had been considered among the greatest of the remaining Masters. She had been there at the defeat of Kun, more than twenty standard years before when the Jedi were nearly destroyed. Time passed. Voices changed. Great deeds were forgotten. She grew complacent with the ways of the Council, with the ways of the Force. The hero found herself tolerated by the Council if not ignored. She used that ignorance to continue her teachings and expand her influence. She had drawn others to her since their time together had ended. He was no longer her only student, but he was her greatest. He was Lorn Revan, Jedi Knight.
***
Yavin IV, Outer Rim
The ashes still smoldered in the deep trenches of this once verdant world. Site of the Jedi's victory over the last known Sith Master, Yavin 4 was now a shadow its former self. As he watched the planet grow larger in his display, Lorn knew why his master had called him here. She wanted him to learn from Kun's mistakes.
He set the controls to automatic and allowed himself a moment of reflection. His mind raced to his earliest memories—memories of Master Kae. There was a time when she had felt similar to the other Jedi Masters in the Force, a paragon of virtue and light, so very different from the murky presence she was to him now.
He had never been able to find out what had caused the change in his master; Arren had always been secretive about her past. But whatever the cause, it had changed her destiny and, as a result, it had changed his.
His role in the galaxy was changing. New demands levied. As ever, he sought answers. Her secrets were no longer his concern, he abandoned that quest long ago. The quest before him now was mastery, of himself, and of the Force. His role demanded it.
Early on in his training, Arren had advised him to search out all aspects of the Force. She had sent him to learn at the feet of many masters over the years, Vrook, Vandar, and Atris among others. Master Kae's directive to learn about the Force from disparate viewpoints was the one reason he continued to respond to her call. She still had teachings he needed to learn.
His ship's repulsorlifts kicked in and Lorn returned his thoughts to the moment at hand, searching his feelings in an attempt to locate Arren in the Force. He found her presence brushing against the corners of his mind before she retreated elsewhere, eluding his grasp.
His fighter set down, sinking a few centimeters into the soft, marshy soil of the planet. He allowed the craft to settle before he opened the hatch exposing his cockpit to the cool atmosphere beyond. His ears were greeted with the distinctive cry of a pair of winged creatures flying a few meters overhead. His head followed their movement, the steady breeze disheveling his thick brown hair before he had fully unfastened his harness. The straps gave way allowing his active frame the freedom his muscles had been begging for. He rose from his seat and resisted the urge to pull his cloak in tighter as he descended the three rungs to the sodden surface below. Despite the moisture, the tender blades of grass crunched lightly under his feet as he moved about the mire.
His eyes rose from the ground to the view the world before him. Though he had observed it upon descent, Lorn was impressed to find new growth all around him. There were great valleys of green and the forest was making a valiant effort to return to the higher peaks. Their distant summits teemed with towering waterfalls sourced by unseen lakes. Lorn heard the call of further native creatures in the distance. He drew the life of the world into his frame. Even after the shadow, rebirth was possible. Though despite the healing, the planet still bore signs of the battle that had taken place a quarter-century before—deep scars that would take longer to heal, if they ever did.
“There is much the world around us can teach us, Revan. But be sure to see the true hand behind the mystery.”
Lorn could not sense where the words had originated; they seemed to come from all around. “Cryptic as always, Master Kae,” Lorn replied. “Never disclosing your true meaning.”
“Would you have it any other way?” The increasingly gravely voice answered.
“No, and therein lies your true wisdom—allowing the student to conclude for himself.” He continued to seek his master in the Force.
“But are you the student any longer?” The voice answered, now from behind. “I have felt the increase in your power these last few years. And though the Jedi Council no longer confides in me, it is difficult to escape all mention of your exploits. Revan, the Jedi Knight and protector of the Outer Rim.”
As Lorn turned he caught the first hint of Arren's location. “My only goal is to serve the Force and to go where it leads me.”
“Then it is your master now?” The source of the voice now became apparent as a robed figure emerged from the smoke of the still smoldering planet. “Be careful of whom you choose to serve, value your own will as well as that of others.”
“And distrustful as always, I see. Always suspecting betrayal at every turn.” The former padawan accused his master.
“You would be wise to do the same, Lorn. Betrayal can come from all sides, from a master or from a servant...or apprentice.”
Arren appeared clearer now as she drew closer and dropped the shielding effect of the Force. She had aged since Lorn had last seen her; she was no longer the vibrant beauty he remembered from his youth. Her skin was paler now and worn. The burden she was carrying inside was beginning to take its toll.
“Despite what you may think, people, by and large, are good. In my experience, placing your trust in someone can help to reveal that goodness. Not every being in the galaxy is out to get one another.” The confident Jedi Knight remarked as he bowed slightly at her arrival.
“But what of the galaxy itself? Or the Force? Can you say the same for them?” Arren paused, the lines on her face curved upwards into a position they seldom assumed. “There are many unknown dangers in the galaxy yet often the most dangerous are those found within ourselves. The fate of the galaxy depends on how we confront both Lorn. But I did not summon you here to discuss philosophy, I'm sure the Jedi Council is already doing their best to fill your mind with it. And this is a path you must find on your own.”
“It is good to see you again, Master Kae.”
“As it is good to see you, Revan. Tell me, have you given any more thought as to our last meeting?”
The two began to walk towards a cluster of small trees. “If you mean taking on padawan, yes Master, I have. Though I do not feel drawn to any at the temple on Coruscant or the Enclave on Dantooine.”
“And what of the academy on Taris?” Arren placed a hand on his arm as he turned to face her stopping him before he could respond. “I thought not. Lucien has failed to impress me as well.”
“The Force is calling me elsewhere Master Kae.”
“As it should. Your importance to the galaxy dictates as much, though you may not yet realize it.” Arren's response seemed curt. The Jedi Master exhaled deeply. “Your choice of apprentice will have great consequences as do those of all great masters. Take the Sith Lord Kun and his choice of Ulic which proved to be his downfall.”
Arren's choice of reference startled him causing a momentary reaction in his face, one he was quick to get under control. “Your counsel is noted, but I am hardly a master, or a Sith.”
“You underestimate your powers, Lorn.” Arren edged closer and placed her hand on his shoulder. She turned the young knight to face her. “You may not hold the title given by the Jedi Council but your powers far exceed those of most masters.” Her voice began to rise in strength. “Your future holds great mastery Lorn, that I know. Though there is much about your future I cannot see,” Arren smiled, “despite my gift of foresight.”
Lorn countered, “Master, you place too much emphasis on me, and too little on the Force.”
"When I see you through my powers it is as if I see into the heart of the Force itself.”
“Perhaps that is how the master wishes to view her student.”
Arren's lip curled slightly. “You have a great destiny Revan.”
“My destiny lies with the Force. I exist to serve the good of the galaxy.”
“As do we all, my former padawan. As do we all.” Arren placed her hand against his back leading him on through the grove. “The problem lies in determining what is the good. The needs of one often conflict with the needs of another. Our task is to decide which side to take. And which side to serve.”
They passed into a small circular clearing. Arren motioned to two moss-covered stones in the center and lifted her cowl concealing her graying hair. “Sit with me Lorn, we have much to discuss including care you must take in the selection of your apprentice.”
-----signature-----
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Healer_Leona
Registered:
Jul '00
|
Date Posted:
10/25/06 6:08pm
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
|
|
Weclome to the boards drevan1138 . Nice start.
-----signature-----
Still crazy after all these years.
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Obi-gone
Registered:
Dec '05
|
Date Posted:
10/27/06 1:57pm
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
|
I second what Leona said about a next start, but I'll go a step furthur. Excellent start! I can't believe that this is your very first attempt at fanfiction. When I compare this to the first fanfic I wrote, I'm truly impressed with what you've done here, drevan. The descriptions were wonderful, and the dialogue was good as well. I'm a sucker for well-written, in-depth descriptions, and you are off to an excellent start.
It's funny...for Arran's dialogue, I envisioned her voice as Galadrial for The Lord of the Rings.  I'm already enjoying her character immensely.
Keep up the good work, dreven. I see much promise in your story. 
Obi-gone
-----signature-----
Jedi on Fire - http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/27384416/p1/?0 View my profile to see my humorous poems Stop looking at my signature and go read my stories....please?
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Kelli_LB
Registered:
Jun '06
|
Date Posted:
10/27/06 3:05pm
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
|
Excellent start, I am really intrigued and I can't wait to see where you take this. If you have a PM list, could you please add me to it. I am looking forward to reading the next chapter.
-----signature-----
Winner of the 2007 Saga Fanfic Awards for Best Villain.  The Legacy: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/248894 "I'm babbling on about galactic prostitution...and that's not why you're here! You're here for battle." --The Knudson Menace
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Obi-gone
Registered:
Dec '05
|
Date Posted:
10/27/06 8:23pm
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
|
Kelli_LB posted:
If you have a PM list, could you please add me to it.
I second that. If you have a PM list, put me on it, if you please.
-----signature-----
Jedi on Fire - http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/27384416/p1/?0 View my profile to see my humorous poems Stop looking at my signature and go read my stories....please?
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Xeks321
Registered:
Dec '05
|
Date Posted:
10/29/06 1:54am
Subject:
RE: A New Destiny (pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
|
I will echo what everyone else has already said. Excellent start. I truely enjoyed your dialogue. That was very impressive even for a first crack at it. You really don't need to change a thing. Just keep going with what you got. I can't say how great that was. Good job!!!!!!!
Xeks
-----signature-----
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
drevan1138
Registered:
Apr '06
|
Date Posted:
11/1/06 5:19pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (formerly titled A New Destiny) a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 9:47am (4 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
|
Thank you to all who commented. Your high praise has motivated me to keep going.
I hope you enjoy chapter two of A Shared Vision.
Two
Anaxes, Galactic Core
As the flying canister of propellant entered the space his head had occupied only a fraction of an instant earlier, Malak wondered to himself how things could have gotten so out of control. Apparently events went much deeper then he and his master had believed at first.
The thought almost proved to be his last as he now saw a cortosis-woven vibroblade accelerating towards his chest. With a slight shift of his balance, Malak rotated under the impending blade and caught his attacker just below the knees with his lightsaber. One less foe to worry about, now only if he could discover who they were and what they were trying to prevent him from discovering.
The mercenaries he was facing gave him no time to unravel the mystery as three more of them charged from their cover. A smirk crossed his face as his blade withdrew into its hilt sending its familiar sound vibrating off the surrounding packing crates. The gambit worked as the men seemed to hesitate. Malak rushed forward and caught the arm of the first attacker at the elbow as the man attempted a powerful downward swipe. He kept his grip and twisted sending the man's vibrosword against the discharging blaster of his friend. He continued the twist and the first man flipped over landing squarely on his back.
Malak turned. His head snapped back as an armored fist connected with his jaw. He decided to return the favor. Boot met head and the man fell backwards. A swift kick to the gut of the last mercenary standing effectively ended the immediate threat. Malak rubbed at his jaw, definitely dislocated. For now he was glad the man hadn't knocked it clear off his face, though he might feel different in the morning.
The mercenaries were regrouping at the far end of the hangar. He took the opportunity to examine the fallen foe at his feet. At first glance one would suspect that his attackers were unorganized based on their disparate weaponry and armor, but their fighting style and coordination told otherwise. They were fewer in number now than when the fighting had begun, but still too many for his liking. Despite his unease, he felt confident in his own abilities. There were still more than a dozen attackers and he was a lone Jedi Padawan, though Malak was never one to be told the odds. And besides, he was virtually a Knight anyways.
He sensed two of the attackers trying to circle around from behind. He gave two packing crates a violent shove using Force energy, sending them hurtling into the men, and pinning them against the hangar wall. The tops of their torsos slumped limply over the dull-orange metal of their constraints.
His blade lit. A blaster bolt aimed squarely at his head was deflected and sent back to the weapon of his assailant causing the weapon to explode, temporarily blinding his attacker's eyes.
In his heart he regretted causing so much damage, but he was not the one pressing the attack, at least not yet. So far he had not ended the life of any of the band and had merely disabled his attackers. Attackers who had, for the moment, shifted their position to the safety of some nearby cargo crates. He sensed no innocent beings in the hangar to protect from harm and was content to wait the group out. Besides, he wanted to find out what they had gotten themselves into.
He peered around his cover. He could sense the desperation flowing from the far end of the room. It was a bad sign. Most beings in the galaxy avoided open confrontation with a Jedi, yet this group was proving to be both intrepid and fearless. Now their state of mind increased the likelihood of the situation ending badly, and permanently for some.
He shifted the hilt of his weapon from hand to hand as he waited the group out. The crates they had settled behind were precariously close to a stack of propellant, the same stack the earlier canister had originated from. The Force led his thoughts to a natural end to this conflict without the need for further suffering. Using the Force, he began to loosen the seals on the canisters. It took a lot of concentration, but Malak was more than up to the task. Suddenly four of the silver canisters unleashed the gas they contained—gas that was not meant for the lungs of any species.
The men scattered but it didn't take long for the rest of them to join their unconscious counterparts. Malak quickly made his way over to the canisters doing his best not to inhale any of the gas using an old Jedi breathing technique. The canisters were easily sealed and, with a slice of the hangar's controls, fresh air was once again flowing into the area.
He bent down and inspected the nearest victim. The gas had certainly done its job, perhaps too well. It would be some time before he could get any answers out of any of them.
He reached out in the Force in an attempt to contact his master. A presence he had grown quite accustomed to these past five years was steadily drawing nearer, it wouldn't be long before Antil arrived. Malak surveyed the battle scene and smiled. His master was always one to miss out on the action.
As he sat meditating on an overturned crate, a few merchants entered the hangar clearly surprised at the disorder. They were also startled by the sight of Malak, and only partly due to his status as a Jedi. At over two meters tall and powerfully built, he truly was an imposing presence. The group decided that they had picked the wrong time to check on their cargo and quickly left the area. Their appearance and departure did little to interrupt Malak who was searching his thoughts in an attempt to discover the motive of his attackers.
“A powerful, yet wise, display of the Force my young padawan.” Antil Roon entered the bay. “I felt your restraint in the Force from across the city as you searched for a more amicable solution.”
“All due to the years of your training, Master.”
“You should not forget the instruction you received from Master Bosk or your time with Master Lestin at the academy,” Antil pointed out, “they have been as much your true master as I.” Antil approached Malak's perch.
“I am grateful for the counsel I have received from all the masters of the Order, but especially from you, Master. And though I have said it before, I am also grateful that you felt to take me on following the death of Master Bosk and the time I spent on Dantooine.”
“Though you are young Rais, you have already had many mentors, and I feel that you may have yet more in your quest for mastery. You have been faced at an early age with the death of your master, one whom you viewed as invulnerable.”
“His death was needless. It is still difficult to accept it as the will of the Force.”
“The death of those who are our friends is difficult for all to deal with, despite our guidelines against attachment. Yet the difficulty is calmed by our knowledge that those who join the Force are always with us and lend voice to its counsel.”
“I do feel his counsel in the Force, Master. And I do my best to follow his teachings and yours. You have taught me the way to increase not only my power but also my mind.”
“But not as fast as you may have liked, I suppose.” Antil grinned. “Regardless, you did well here Rais; you are well on your way to knighthood. Now perhaps you can explain exactly what happened here.”
“I suspect you know as much as I.” Rais Malak stood to consult with his master. He looked more the master of the two as he dominated Antil by more than half a meter. “After I had questioned Sel Shern, I came back to the cargo hold as we had planned where these fine individuals were waiting to meet with me.”
“Did the senator's aide shed any light as to her disappearance?”
“He was very little help. And I don't believe the rodent was hiding anything. I think my height was intimidating for him.” A slight smile crossed his face before he noticed Antil's reaction.
“Be careful of your words Rais, or they may return to haunt you. You've obviously never been to Nelornis VII. I could arrange a visit if you would like to see the situation reversed. Neither the Nelornisans nor the Chadra-Fan care much for the term.”
“I meant no disrespect Master.”
“I know Rais, but we should still be careful. Just because a word attains common usage does not mean it is without hurt. And we are Jedi, for good or ill many beings in the galaxy set their moral code based on our actions.” Antil concluded his counsel. “But you were saying?”
“I sensed no deception in Sel or the rest of the senator's staff, which means our only lead is my unscheduled visitors, and it seems they are going to be a while.”
“You're sure the two are connected?”
“Yes, Master. The determination they showed in battle made it quite clear they intended to continue the assault even after I tried to convince them it was in their best interest to do otherwise.”
Antil looked over the effects of the battle and nodded. He found a nearby crate and took a seat. “They should have listened. You can certainly cast an imposing presence, one that has been intimidating for many for quite some time, even since you were a youngling.” Antil reminisced. “Even padawans at the academy were afraid of you at that time, if the rumors I heard were true. And your new tattoos have done little to deter from your image, and gives me reason to wonder if such was your intention all along.”
Rais sat down beside his master. “Fear may be a good thing to inspire in one's enemies, but it should not been inspired among one's comrades.”
“A wise observation, my friend. There was always one student who showed no fear of you, however.”
“Lorn and I have nothing to fear from each other. We have always been loyal to one another.”
“The two of you were inseparable as younglings. Ah, the Mind and the Muscle the rising stars of the new Jedi order...” Rais looked away. Antil placed his hand on his student's shoulder. “I apologize, I did not mean to demean you by recalling those childhood nicknames. You have proven to have an exceptional mind yourself. Though I feel that you can agree that Revan's battle tactics in the simulations were nearly unparalleled.”
“We are all suited best for the tasks the Force has set out for us.” Rais remarked casually.
“Spoken like a true follower of the Force. Through its guidance I’m certain we can make sense of the events of the past few weeks.”
The two rose and walked among the remnants of the battle. The vast grey hangar now sported hundreds of scorches and pits from the blasters of Rais' attempted assassins. There had been over twenty attackers in all, their bodies found in different states of disarray on the durasteel floor and walls. Despite the number of attackers, the Jedi could find no clues as to their identity or that of their employer.
“Your skills are truly impressive Rais, twenty battle-hardened mercenaries against a seemingly overmatched padawan, and you managed to keep them all alive. I feel that most masters would have been hard pressed to do any better, myself included.”
“I appreciate your praise master, but my success comes because of my reliance upon the Force.”
“I realize that Rais, your connection with it is as strong as I have yet seen. If not for the death of Master Bosk and your years spent alone at the academy, I have no doubt you would have reached knighthood by now.” Antil paused. “I wonder if it bothers you to see your childhood friend achieving galactic renown as a Jedi Knight while you are still regarded a learner?”
“Lorn has earned his reputation through his adherence to the Jedi Code and the Force. I could not be more proud of him. Titles do not matter between us, we each do our part.”
“If only the rest of the galaxy could grasp that one concept we would all be much better off. I am finding you to be a treasure trove of Jedi wisdom toda…” Antil stopped as the two of them turned in sync to look at a recovering Aqualish pressing what they knew to be an emergency beacon.
“We don’t have much time Rais. We need all the answers we can get out of him.”
“I don’t think he will crack in time, Master. Given the coordination of their attack I feel that they are trained well enough to keep a secret. We won’t be able to get anything valuable without resorting to unacceptable means of persuasion.”
“I see your point; and I feel you are correct. We had better hurry before his friends get us in their sights.”
Antil and Rais left in a blur of motion using the Force to increase their natural speed. The night air was shockingly forceful as they emerged from the hangar and made their way to the nearest sky lane. The city was still alive even at this late hour. Multiple speeders showed signs of impairment as they drunkenly careened across the cityscape.
“Makes you wonder whether we’re safer here than in the hanger, doesn’t it Rais?”
“Brings back fond memories of Nar Shadda.”
“Ah, the Jewel of the Hutt sector.”
They leapt over the skylane and continued through the crowded streets of Pols Anaxes.
***
He was getting too old for this. He had had his fill of close escapes and exciting chases long ago. Thinking back now, he had probably forgotten more than he remembered, and even those memories were too many for his liking. He had been a capable swordsman in his youth, but his mind was becoming increasingly occupied with Force philosophy and politics of late. Often he allowed Rais to handle the physical rigors of the job alone. The young man at his side often reminded him of this fact, but Antil knew Rais was more than capable, action was in his blood. Antil began to wish the two of them had been assigned to that dispute between the Wookies and Czerka Corporation, though he knew even negotiations had a way of becoming unpredictable, even aggressive. As they ran through the darkened streets and lanes his mind began to sort through the details of what could only loosely be defined as a problem in labor relations.
He rounded a corner to find the shaft of a lightsaber rising towards his face. The same color as Kun's. The man emerged from the smoking remains of the Senate Hall. His face a twisted and maliced form of the youthful expression Antil recalled during their time together as younglings. Blood-stained hands grasped firmly about his weapon's hilt. The Dark Lord of the Sith advanced. Antil's hand froze just above his weapon. He was too late. His blade failed to ignite. This was the end. An image of darkness to be forever burned in his memory. As his last thought was occurring to him, a blaster bolt was deflected off the blue blade arcing mere micrometers from his scalp, singeing his hair.
Antil expelled his breath. Rais was at his side. Antil activated his saber's yellow blade as the two continued to
run. “Thank you Rais, I owe you again.” That scene. And those eyes filled with hatred. The Chancellor, and the Senate. All dead.
The words of his padawan called from a far off place. “Makes you wonder why you keep your hair doesn’t it Master?” The cleanly-shaven Jedi retorted.
Antil nodded. “You may be onto something there…I failed to even sense a hostile presence.” I failed to act.
“Droid, most likely an assassin. Probably an HK.”
For now their unseen foe allowed them to continue unhindered. They crossed a skybridge leading them further from the heart of the city. Sensing trouble ahead Antil directed their course to the left. Snap out of it Antil, Rais needs you. They made their way down a wide alley.
“It is unfortunate, master, that we had to make our landing in such a remote area. It would have been much more convenient to land at our rendezvous point.”
“Our goal was to remain unnoticed, something we’ve obviously failed to achieve. It's also alarming that our rendezvous was compromised. Did you speak to anyone regarding our meeting?”
“Of course not master, which means our communicators are no longer safe to use.”
“I’ve rarely seen such skill in a slicer. Whoever hired these mercenaries is obviously well connected.”
They continued to run. The alley narrowed before them. “Master, I have a bad feeling about this. We’re running right into their hands.”
“I think you're right Rais.” What have I done? The Jedi began to make their retreat back up the alley, but were cut short as a rocket slammed into the side of an entertainment complex sending a mountain of debris, both human and building, into their path. Laser fire from the opposite end of the alley began to pit the obstacle in front of them.
“I sense at least thirty and we have no place for cover.”
“Which means our only way out is up.” Rais' blue blade began batting away the blasterfire.
Antil looked up and could only faintly make out the sky. The buildings on either side of the alley seemed to converge as their durasteel frames reached for the upper atmosphere. “It’s at least two hundred meters, do you feel up to it?”
“As ready as ever.” Rais continued to deflect the increasingly more accurate bolts.
With a Force-assisted leap each of them landed ten meters up the side of the entertainment complex. The surface provided virtually no traction and they were required to instantly jump to the other side. They were nearly fifty meters into their ascent when they began to be targeted from below.
“They aren’t going to let us out easy, are they Master?”
“When has anyone, Rais?”
Most weaponry had limited accuracy at this range, but having to sense and deflect the blaster bolts was taking its toll on their speed. They had yet to find a solid foothold and only continued by jumping back and forth between the sides of the building.
Antil's muscles began to ache as the work was physically taxing, even for a Jedi. “We may have had an easier time, fighting our way through. We’re only about half way…”
A new danger presented itself now as another rocket was fired from the top corner of the far building. Rais began to fall.
“Rais!”
His padawan accelerated towards the alley floor. He watched Rais draw his arms into his chest. He sensed the rocket nearing. He sensed Rais centering himself in the Force. He sensed the rocket's propulsion systems constricting. He watched the rocket alter course. Rais drifted to the side his feet trying to obtain a foothold. The rocket, its direction changed, slammed into the bottom of the alley decimating the threat below.
An enormous ball of flame raced up the alleyway. Rais extended his hands against the wall. He failed to slow. He was too low now to escape its fury. As Antil looked on from above he saw his student consumed by the flame. A dagger pierced his heart. It's all my fault.
Just like before.
Looking to the source of the rocket he saw what he thought was an assassin droid and an armored bounty hunter. Antil stretched into the Force with his pent up emotions. In the midst of a midair leap, he waved his hand toppling his two enemies from their vantage point. Still directing the two, he crushed them forcefully against the side of the building. He allowed them to fall.
His exertion had exhausted the aging Jedi Master, both physically and in the Force. Antil made his way to the bottom of the alley as fast as he could manage. He found Rais’ body in the midst of a scattered mess of limbs and armor. His muscular form was limp and burned, but Rais was alive, barely.
Antil had never considered himself a healer, yet he stretched out with all his remaining energy directing it into the areas of his friend the Force revealed to be damaged. Please Rais. After several long seconds, a pair of familiar copper eyes opened slightly.
In a deeply-raspy voice which Antil hardly recognized, Rais managed a few words. “Did we make it, Master?”
A warm smile crossed the master’s face. “Only thanks to your bravery, Rais. Though you should never try something so foolish again.”
Rais failed to speak any more words as he dropped into a Force-healing trance. His broad chest rose and fell to the rhythm of his steady breathing. Antil looked on and ran his hands through his graying hair. Anymore one close call was all he could handle and this day had certainly provided.
Sensing no remaining danger, the Jedi Master made his way to the end of the alley. He found the droid to be no more than a pile of sparking rubble and turned his attention to the bounty hunter he suspected had organized the whole matter. Searching his body, Antil discovered a datapad. Its sides were crushed and most of the underlying circuitry was exposed. His hands cupped the fragmented pieces. His hands cupped their only lead.
Antil silently cursed himself for succumbing to his baser emotions. Why couldn't I remain in control? There had to be another way.
Hopingly, he turned the datapad on. An image slowly resolved and then vanished as the datapad failed. What he saw was enough to send a chill down his spine, a chill that spread to every inch of his being.
The archive droids on Coruscant would run their tests to confirm what he had seen. But the image couldn't be clearer in his mind. It was a symbol he had never forgotten. A symbol associated with his failure. Antil rose slowly from the alley floor. Events were proving to be much deeper indeed.
-----signature-----
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Svebor
Registered:
Nov '05
|
Date Posted:
11/2/06 8:51am
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (formerly titled A New Destiny) a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak
|
Pretty intrigueing story. I like your writing style. Well done! 
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Kelli_LB
Registered:
Jun '06
|
Date Posted:
11/2/06 3:12pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (formerly titled A New Destiny) a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak
|
Great update, drevan. It is interesting seeing young, pre-darkside, Malak. You are doing a great job with characterization. Also, you did a great job with the action sequences as well. Keep up the great work, I'll be looking forward to the next chapter.
-----signature-----
Winner of the 2007 Saga Fanfic Awards for Best Villain. The Legacy: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/248894 "I'm babbling on about galactic prostitution...and that's not why you're here! You're here for battle." --The Knudson Menace
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
drevan1138
Registered:
Apr '06
|
Date Posted:
11/14/06 4:03pm
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (formerly titled A New Destiny) a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 9:52am (1 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
|
Thank you for the compliments.
Enjoy the next installment.
Three
Yavin IV, Outer Rim
At first the shadow was no more than a momentary disruption of the light. A shadow which went unheeded at first until it quickly deepened and one could not tell if there had ever been brightness. Above the world in place of the stars the blackened sky revealed thousands of fiery plumes. Brilliant beams of crimson red erupted, filling the world with smoke and death; smoke and death which spread from this world to others like some infectious disease.
Lorn awoke. He found himself alone in the clearing as his memory of the dream dispersed as quickly as Ashteronian fog.
The ground was damp and becoming increasingly uncomfortable. He had not slept long. Darkness still enveloped the world around him.
He tried to remember what had caused him to awaken. In place of his memories was a vague sense of dread, and fear. He tried to suppress these feelings, but the harder he tried the more they gnawed at the back of his mind.
For now he didn’t know what to make of the impressions. The Force itself was often as mysterious and vague as his master. Perhaps, that is the source of her mystery he thought. And perhaps his dream was nothing more than the darker aspects of this world intruding on his not-so-restful slumber. After all, this planet was the final resting place of the last Sith Lord.
Arren had left him for the time being, she took little time for rest these days, something her appearance attested to. Lorn arose and brushed some loose grass off his charcoal-colored tunic. He made his way to the top of a nearby hill which provided a wide vista. The scene which spread before his eyes was that of a vast landlocked sea illuminated only by starlight. A thin fog hovered weightlessly above the surface.
The sea sat in a great valley, cascading rivers flowing in from all sides. The sea took water from each source as it strove to increase its size day by day.
As Lorn looked closer he perceived much of the surrounding area to be rancid. Foul growths of twisted vine dominated the landscape overtaking even the hardiest of plants. The sea itself appeared decayed. Centuries of filth had filled the great body, remaining till now due to its lack of outlet. The sea drew everything to itself hoarding its source of strength and providing no benefit to its environment.
Its scope was massive, mammoth waves rolled with even the slightest breeze to empower them. Lorn had no doubt the sea would one day fill the entire valley, destroying it.
Its course had made it strong. Its course had led to its corruption.
He turned away from the sea and made his way along the ridge. As he walked, Lorn sensed a slight tremor in the Force across the stars. The feeling reminded him of his childhood at the academy as a youngling, before he had been taken on by Master Kae. He pondered for a moment the events of his youth before he returned his attention to the tremor. He could gain no further sense of it and his feelings led him to no further recollection. The Force was certainly shrouded this evening.
Lorn hoped his trouble perceiving the Force this night was due only to the dark presence of the Force on this planet. The Dark Side could make it difficult to discern the future, that was one of the first lessons Arren had taught him. Yet in his heart he knew his difficulty was not due to the dark history of Yavin IV. The Force portended something far more ominous.
“The Force is difficult to read this night. And it will become ever more so in the coming days.” Arren emerged from the shadows. “The galaxy is changing, and we are in the midst. You can feel the change around you, can’t you Revan?”
“There is a great deal of unrest. The world itself feels confused.”
“The confusion is not limited to this world. We are reaching a turning point. The fate of the galaxy will now be shaped by the choices of the few.”
“You mean by my choices. Choices like the selection of my padawan.” Lorn's eyes drifted to the stars and he unconsciously raked his hands through thick black hair.
“I believe so.” She came around to meet his gaze, her eyes almost translucent.
“From my youth you have hinted at the importance my life would hold, but I always chose to view such comments as coming from an overly-proud master.”
“You feel differently now, don't you? You have seen what effects your service has had on the inhabitants of the Outer Rim. They look to you to lead them.” Arren removed her hand from his shoulder, the back of her fingers brushing against the entire course of his sleeve. “On the surface you may have ignored my proclamations of your importance, but the teachings I wished to instill have taken hold. Long have I watched you Lorn, from before our time together. You will be sufficient to the task. I've always known that you would be.”
“Then why do I still have doubts?”
“So do all who hold greatness within them, but you are capable. Clear your mind of doubt, embrace your destiny and the Force will flow through you like never before. You will find the strength to take your rightful place in the galaxy. A place demanded of you by the Force.”
Arren motioned forward. They walked through the shrouded night of the jungle moon. They left the high plains and traveled through dense forests newly choked with branches and thorns of sprouting growths. Their hands became bloodied as they removed entangled obstacles blocking their path, neither Arren nor Lorn made any attempt to clear their way using the Force. As for Lorn his mind was much too occupied with Arren's words, and the value he placed on them, to bother.
It felt as if she were in his mind trumpeting the great destiny the Force had lain at his feet. He knew it was partly due to the bond they shared, a bond he had formed with her during the years as her padawan. It had lessened with separation these past few years, but it was still strong enough that thoughts and images flowed freely between their minds. They traveled on, in mental contact, but it was some time before either spoke again.
To fill the silence he mulled over the questions he now had, but the answers evaded him more effectively than a flock of wild mynocks—the winged parasites whose elusive nature inspired the Jedi's naming of the defensive form of lightsaber combat. And the most evasive answer was the one he sought most of all. Is she right about me? He began to explore the bond, but found Arren's feelings as closed as ever.
Arren withdrew her connection and the planet itself seemed to grow quiet. Even the trees made no sound, though Lorn could see their branches sway high above him, pushed by an invisible hand. Ahead faint wisps of fog drifted through an endless maze of bark and vine. A new sound filled the silent void. Out of the stillness he heard a thousand distant echoes of the past, their message a dissonant blur of noise.
Their course angled steadily downhill and the fog lessened. The forest began to release its grip as the trees became more dispersed. At last they came into view of the first Massassi temple Lorn had ever seen. It sat defiantly in the center of the valley, a bastion against the ever pressing hands of the jungle. Its gray walls attempting a valiant stand against the onslaught of nature. Yet despite its mass, the temple felt strange, almost hollow, and seemed somehow out of place, as if it no longer belonged to this world.
Arren was the first to break the quietude of the dawn. “Kun was a god to the Massassi.”
Lorn advanced to her side. “Yet in his arrogance he placed no value on their lives, wiping out their race in an attempt to preserve his own life. All that remains now is their voices on the air.”
“What significance does a single life hold, or a thousand, when compared the power that was Kun’s to command?”
She's probing me. Lorn attempted to seal off his emotions from his former master. He didn't want to give her the benefit of an emotional reaction. His words came calmly. “Power does not bestow the right to decide fate. It is a gift to use in the service of others.”
“Often those with power can see what the masses cannot. You yourself spoke of serving the greatest good.”
Trying to turn my own words against me. “Kun slaughtered the Senate and destroyed entire planets. I don’t consider his actions good.”
“It depends on your point of view, Revan.” Arren's whitened eyes gleamed in the last moment of twilight. “But, I suppose you are correct. Along the way Kun lost sight of his greater goals—converting the Jedi to his larger view of the Force and bringing order to the galaxy.”
Making halfhearted concessions. “What good is achieving order if you have to destroy half of the galaxy in the process?”
“Many times we must sacrifice all in order to achieve something truly meaningful,” Arren glanced briefly at him, “but you present a valid point. Kun’s method was misguided, but perhaps his objectives were not.”
Offering only a hint of your true objective. Yet enough to know that you will one day ask a sacrifice of me. Lorn let the conversation rest.
The temple before them was an impressive feat for the primitive race who had accomplished its construction. Its gray rock walls steadily rose nearly one hundred meters from the valley floor. Abandoned by an extinct race, the jungle had begun to encroach upon the edifice. He stood their studying its architecture for several long moments. What is she to ask of me?
“Kun’s presence is strong here.” She motioned toward the temple, turned, and departed back into the jungle. “You may be able to gather a sense of his intentions and discover where he erred.”
Very well. Lorn pulled the hood of his cloak over his head and made his way into the valley below. A dull spread of orange light illuminated his path as the gas giant Yavin made its appearance over the horizon. As he drew closer to the entrance, the light was intercepted by the trees beyond, darkening the grass at his feet and creating the image of a shadowy hand extending a series of giant gaunt fingers about him. He passed through the shadow and entered the structure. He soon cleared the short foyer and entered a spacious hall where the building opened up considerably. A raised platform rested on the far side of the room, the site of many Massassi rituals. The Force was once again acting strangely and Lorn could only remotely sense the darker aspects of the mysterious energy field. He walked to the center of the hall and stopped, alert to any disturbance in the Force. The temple felt cold.
“You have a great destiny Revan.”
The words were those of his former master, yet he could not determine if they had merely arisen in his mind or had come from the temple itself. They may have even emanated from his master herself, he knew she was capable, it was a technique he had learned long ago at her feet.
As far as the lone knight could tell, the interior was barren. Obviously the masters who overthrew Exar Kun had cleared out any remaining Sith relics. The only thing the temple now contained was the objects he had brought with him. He remained firm and turned about his position, eying the surrounding walls.
“Discover it.”
Lorn’s hands brushed against the hilts of his lightsabers leaving a cold metallic sensation on the palms of his hands. He resisted the urge to ignite the emerald blades, sensing no physical opponent. Whatever he was to face here would arise from the Force itself, he would not need his weapons. It would be a battle of the will, much like the Jedi trials he had experienced three years earlier.
He made his way to the platform on the far side of the hall. Lorn noticed a faint shimmer of light emanating from a corner of the stage. It revealed a walkway which wound its way around the outskirts of the building. He left the great hall. Along his new path small carvings in the ceiling cast illuminated pillars of light to guide him in his way. After several minutes the path diverged. He could tell that this walkway led around the temple until it reached its zenith while the alternative course led to darker recesses beneath the temple itself. Whatever she brought me here to see, it likely isn't to be found in the light.
Choosing the latter route, the young knight made his way into the shadows. His sight left him after only a few steps. After ten meters Lorn was surprised to find the path terminate in a large slab of polished stone. Certainly an odd placement and not in keeping with the architecture seen previously.
Lorn reached out his hand, touching the stone. It was surprisingly warm and he pulled back suddenly. But there was something else about the barrier besides its warmth. It carried an echo in the Force. Lorn pressed his hands firmly against the stone. Images slowly resolved. He could see seven individuals arrayed in brown robes standing where he stood now, a long tunnel behind them. They were discussing a matter of great importance. He could not make out the words they spoke. Through the Force the seven pulled a great pillar over the entrance then touched the stone before them. As they turned, one removed her hood. Arren.
He pulled back his hands and he was once again in the moment. His master and the other Jedi had sealed this passage long ago. One of the seven had now brought him back. He did not know what lay behind this door or why the Jedi Masters had sealed it, but he knew he had to go on.
Placing both hands on the stone once again, Lorn began to call on the Force. The slab showed no sign of movement.
Six masters appeared before him, palms outstretched. He felt an invisible barrier move against him attempting to drive him back. He continued to press forward with arms extended. He was gaining ground. The masters called to him, urging him to draw back. As they intensified their efforts, Lorn’s arms began to bend. Perspiration caressed his furrowed brow as Lorn summoned a final burst of energy. He threw his arms outward splitting the masters and driving them hard into opposing walls. Their bodies vanished. A shrouded figure emerged from the shadows clad in darkened gray with head hung low. It lifted its hood revealing a feminine face which rose to meet his gaze with pure white eyes.
Lorn recoiled at the sight and pulled back to find his hands stretched out against the air and a dark passageway before him. A slight shudder ran the length of his spine. The figure's physical traits were obvious exaggerations of those currently exhibited by Arren. What disturbed him more however was the emanations the figure had left in the Force. Like the figure, Arren was becomingly increasingly shrouded in the gray areas of the Force. Lorn eyes trailed back to the site where his path had split. Where is your path leading you, Master?
He returned his attention to the tunnel before him. A small gleam of light shown down on his location allowing him a closer inspection of the opening. He found it to be far more ancient than the temple; curious carvings adorned the walls depicting an ancient struggle of both man and beast. The tunnel spanned a great length and delved far below the foundation of the temple. The temple had been built above this passage, a passage to the heart of Yavin IV.
For a seemingly endless moment Lorn hesitated. Whatever lay at the end of the darkness would reveal the course Arren desired him to follow and her true purpose for bringing him here.
Lorn Revan began his descent.
The path delved far below the surface of the jungle moon. From what he could tell it curved slightly creating a great spiraling circle leading him ever deeper into the depths. He could not use his training to enhance the scarce light for all sense of light had vanished. Though Lorn carried two lightsabers, he relied on the Force to illuminate his mind.
He was several miles below the surface when he found the tunnel's end. The picture the Force presented was more vivid than he could have viewed with his own eyes. Before him stood an old door hewn out of the rock laying slightly ajar. Curious writings adorned its surface, written in a long-forgotten language. He placed his hand on the doorway. It proved to be stubborn and did not give way easily. After a thundering protest, Lorn entered the room. It was small and barren. And empty. His journey seemingly at an end, and at a loss of what to do next, Lorn stopped to rest.
Surrounded in darkness, his senses increased in sharpness. With time he became increasingly aware of his body. His legs were beginning to show the first signs of fatigue from his long journey the previous night. His stomach was empty and desired nourishment. His hands were cracked and bloodied. And his mind…
The sensations he had had upon awakening returned, increased a hundredfold. Lorn tried to push his feelings of dread and fear into the place in his mind he had reserved for darker emotions. The Force surged into the room stronger than the young Jedi had ever experienced. His lungs felt like they were breathing energy, the air crackled with electricity.
His senses stretched, Lorn surrendered to the Force. Its power consumed every part of his being. Like waves on the sea it came again and again, each stronger than before. But he could sense the Force holding back its true power from him; he was holding back.
Lorn at last allowed the Force to enter the area of his mind where he locked his away feelings of fear and anger. And lastly, doubt. As he did he was swept away in a current of energy too strong for his physical self to handle. Lorn struggled to regain control, but the primal nature of the Force overpowered him. He fell to the floor, the darkness taking him.
The first thing he perceived was a sliver of infinite blackness surrounded by a field of color. The image grew clearer revealing a mask hued in red and black. Through a narrow visor the mask looked over an expansive field filled with a billion points of light. Fear, malice, and dread emanated from the mask as the blackness from the visor began to spread across the points concealing them and eventually extinguishing their light.
“Stop!” A figure clad in the simple robes of the Jedi order stepped forward. His brown eyes shimmered with conviction as he called twin lightsabers to his hands. Two shafts of emerald light highlighted the Jedi’s strong face topped with raven hair.
With a voice born of pure malice the mask replied, “Your Jedi ways cannot stop me.”
The Jedi leapt forward and the conflict began. The sabers twisted in a dazzling display of light, but each attack was repulsed as the masked figure deflected the blades with his gauntlets. The struggle continued, neither gaining the upper hand.
The Jedi figure began to be driven back as the mask made a vicious assault. His eyes locked with the blackened visor. Within the visor the Jedi viewed the captured light becoming ever fainter.
“The hatred burns within you. Unleash it, or all you hold dear will be forever lost.”
The blows came in harder sending the Jedi to his knees.
“You have the strength to withstand me. Give in to your true nature.” The mask taunted. “It is the only way.”
“I will never succumb.”
The mask yelled and lunged forward in a desperate attempt to overpower its foe. With a series of defensive maneuvers the Jedi absorbed the assault allowing the masked figure to overextend itself in a burst of fury.
“This is my nature, and my ally is the Force.” The Jedi struck. In one swift stroke the mask was severed from its body. It shattered on the ground releasing the points it had consumed in a brilliant explosion of light.
“I am a Jedi.”
Lorn came to, twin blades in hand and short of breath. The blades retracted and Lorn set his weapon's on a small stone slab. He remained in the darkness for a long period. He realized now that this hadn't been about discovering Kun's intentions, it was about discovering his own. And he had.
Images of his dream the previous night were once again within his mind's grasp. The visions were clear. Arren was certainly correct about the turning point. The galaxy was in danger.
A danger he was to face.
The room seemed hollow, devoid of the energy it had possessed before. Gradually, Lorn made his way to the surface of the moon feeling a great weight on his shoulders. As he emerged from the temple, he saw no sign of Arren.
The sky was heavy with clouds, blocking out what remained of the evening light. Through another pale night, Lorn walked silently back to his ship.
He found it just as he had left it as another day began on the jungle moon. A familiar face stood to the side.
“I trust you have a greater sense of your destiny.”
“Yes, Master Kae, but also many questions that need answering.”
“The answers will come in time, but perhaps not from the sources you expect. The Jedi have nothing more to teach you, Revan. As a Jedi, I have nothing more to teach you.”
Her intentions were only thinly veiled now and though he had witnessed her departure from the Council, he could scarcely believe his ears. Lorn ascended the ladder to his ship easing into the cockpit. She was wrong. The Jedi were key to stopping the darkness, his vision had told him as much. He turned to face his former mentor. “Who else can I rely on to guide me if I am to fulfill my purpose?”
“You have more power than they all. You need no guidance, you can transcend their Order if you choose to leave. The Force has many aspects and many paths to mastery. Yet only one path can unlock the true power of the Force and discover its ways. You must decide which path that is...”
All was revealed, and it was a sacrifice he could not make. I know the path. If she had only seen his vision, she would know. The young knight reluctantly sealed the hatch sensing just how far from the Order Arren had truly slipped. He took one last look at the face he had known for so many years before engaging his tri-engine thrusters. I can't follow you Master. He closed his eyes. His engines engaged.
***
The vessel slipped through the clouds. She had anticipated his reaction, and it made no difference. The choice of path was still before him, as it always would be.
“…for that is your destiny.”
Though her final words were uttered only to herself, they passed through the fibers of every living thing on Yavin IV, forever to implanted on the fabric of the jungle moon. As had Kun's presence decades before.
-----signature-----
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
Svebor
Registered:
Nov '05
|
Date Posted:
11/22/06 8:32am
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (formerly titled A New Destiny) a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak
|
|
Nice update, and nice characterisation of Arren Kae.
|
Locked Topic |
Active Topic Notification |
Private Message |
Post History
|
drevan1138
Registered:
Apr '06
|
Date Posted:
12/27/06 10:09am
Subject:
RE: A Shared Vision (a pre-KOTOR novel featuring Revan and Malak)
- Date Edited:
4/21/07 9:56am (1 edits total)
Edited By:
drevan1138
|
Sorry it has been so long since I updated. Finals were crazy this semester. The next update will be much sooner.
Four
Jedi Temple, Coruscant, Galactic Core
The floor outside the infirmary was beginning to show signs of wear causing a few of the masters to reconsider their choice of surface covering. Jurich Sunrider, however, paid no attention to the delicate situation as he hurried to the outer doors leading to the medical bay. The young padawan spared a quick glance through the transparisteel and a frown crossed his face. He isn't here. Jurich concluded his abbreviated stay by expelling a exaggerated huff and rushing off down the Temple's hall at a youthfully exuberant pace.
The day was breaking as Coruscant’s primary star began its ascent above this portion of the great planet-wide city. Inside the temple a solitary master did not seem to notice, his gaze fixed to the floor. He walked among the spacious halls and tranquil pools designed for peace and reflection, halls and pools which seemed to offer little solace for the graying Jedi judging from his dejected pace.
“Master Roon,” the query echoed from far down the hall, “how is Rais?”
Jurich’s hopeful expression quickly faded as his question provoked no response. He adjusted his pace to overtake the master as silently as he could manage. “Master Roon?”
The figure wearily turned to face him. “Ah, young Sunrider, what is it that you need?”
“The Masters said you were waiting outside the infirmary, I’ve spent the last few hours trying to find you. I wanted to know how Rais was doing.”
The features of the already sunken man sunk lower. His swollen eyes revealed all that needed to be spoken. Antil resumed his walk, passing by Jurich. “Master Rendic, can give you all the details just as well as I can.”
Defeated for the moment, Jurich made his way through the temple grounds back to the infirmary. The doors to the facility were now open. The young Jedi entered to find a member of the Council in discussion with the Devaronian Jedi Jurich sought.
Rendic was a startling sight for many. With two great horns and pale red skin, his kind was known across the galaxy as figments for childhood nightmares. When speaking of him, teenage padawans often remarked that it was clear the Force had a sense of humor, something Jurich had been guilty of himself. The Force had set for Master Rendic a strange purpose; he was the master healer of the Jedi Order.
Wanting to provoke as little annoyance as he could in the masters, Jurich retreated around the nearest corner. Though the two spoke in subdued tones, Jurich was able to piece together a vague sense of the extent of Rais' injuries.
His friend had broken both of his legs in the fall and Jurich suspected a portion of his ego. He had suffered mild surface burns over the majority of his body, though a few days in a bacta tank had removed all visible signs of his injuries due to the explosion.
His internal injuries were the real concern of the Jedi healers, however. His internal organs were badly bruised and several of them had stopped functioning. Additionally, Rais had managed to inhale a portion of the explosion and burned his vocal chords and lungs in the process. The healing trance he had slipped into had begun to repair the damage, but his body was going to take more time to heal and bacta was of little use for such injuries.
The Council member left providing Jurich with an opportunity to finally discuss his friend’s condition. “Master Rendic, how is he doing?”
“Rais knows what he is doing, he will come out of the trance in due time.” The Devaronian entered some notes in a datapad, flashed his pointy teeth in what Jurich could only take to be a sneer, and retreated behind two medical doors. The hiss the doors let out as they sealed appeared to be the last information the healer was willing to convey. He stared at the doors for several seconds. I'm not just a scruffy-haired padawan, despite what you may think. Jurich scrunched his face; it was times like these when he wished his mother were still around. She, at least, had always been willing to talk to him.
***
To his senses, it continued to feel like he was falling.
The trance which was providing his body with the energy to heal itself prevented Rais from having a full awareness of his surroundings as he drifted through various states of partial reality. His only true connection to the outside world was the brief flashes of personality he sensed in individuals who passed close by. He frequently believed he was back at the Jedi Temple.
Other times he inhabited a different world. A world of loss. A world where the only sound was a desperate scream.
Currently, he could feel a great deal of concern about his condition and felt it wise to slip further into the trance. All sense of the outside world vanished as Rais surrendered all control of his body to the Force. His mind traveled over the current of its energy catching scattered images of places and people forming a random collage of the galaxy. As he experienced the current, he was amazed at how totally the mystical energy field bound all living things, present, future, and past.
***
Above the blood-soaked battleground, ash hung in the air obscuring the faint light produced by the distant primary star. Below, the planet trembled sending further fiery plumes of molten stone and ash into the atmosphere. The assembled battalions stood tall, their decorated faces darkened by the blood-ash mixture provided in part by their fallen comrades. Today would be the day their planet would be liberated; today they would taste victory. Their mystics had promised.
With a fury the battalions stormed the lines of their enemy. Spear and sword met armor and shield. For hundreds of years they had waged this war against their gray-skinned oppressors, today they put the full measure of their oppression into their onslaught. Men, women, and children fell side by side in a valiant attempt to secure their freedom. The advanced weaponry of their foe at last gave way before the spirit of their attack. Their oppressors surrendered. They had triumphed!
The oppressors agreed to leave their planet and homeworld. Great transports were constructed to carry the defeated people to another system, to another life. Before entering the final transport, the leader of the gray-skins looked over the only world he had ever known. "We will return,"
Rais awoke. "...we will return."
It took him a moment to correctly orient himself. He was in the Jedi Temple, still floating in his bacta tank, though when it was eluded him for the present. Rais had never experienced such a dream before. If it was just a dream. The people he had seen had been a primitive race, scarcely even capable of space travel. His mind quickly filled with questions. Who had they been, and, perhaps more importantly, had they returned?
Rais decided his own situation was more important for now. Besides, he was unlikely to find any answers if he remained a specimen in his oversized and liquid-filled test tube.
As far as he could tell, his body had recovered and no longer required the healing properties of the tank or of the Force. When no one appeared after several minutes, Rais extended his presence in the Force trying to locate someone nearby. He located Master Rendic, but from the sense he was gathering, the Devaronian was asleep. Visibly all he could see was a medical droid stationed nearby charged with keeping track of his vitals.
Looking through the transparent tank, Rais saw what he thought was the release switch to his hold. It took only a slight effort in the Force to send the switch upwards and begin the drainage process. The droid turned suddenly. It grasped at the switch and attempted to move it in the opposite direction. Rais smiled, holding the release firmly in the Force. Keep trying, it's obviously just an equipment malfunction. Rais shook his head. Droids. Incapable of understanding the finer points of human behavior, let alone the ways of the Force. He released his hold, allowing the machine to conclude its original judgment correct.
He ripped the sensors from his chest, causing the droid further consternation as the liquid agent began pooling at his feet. The lid to his tank only proved to be slightly more difficult as he simultaneously raised it with a Force push while performing an acrobatic flip in a tight tuck to clear the narrow gap.
“Excuse me padawan, but your not fit t-”
One less annoyance to worry about. He left the deactivated droid standing in the middle of the bay. Looking down, the most pressing matter to him now was to find his robes and equipment.
The storage lockers in the medical unit provided little security as most Jedi were adept at maneuvering locking mechanisms with their mental powers. They were there primarily because the architect of the medical unit had conformed to typical galactic standards. One by one Rais searched, discovering dozens of identical brown robes and light tunics. In one he discovered a bright set of red body armor. Too bold for me. As so often happens, the final locker revealed his black and golden-brown bodysuit and his lightsaber. His armor was a darker shade than he remembered it.
From what he could tell it was late into the night, the Jedi passing through the temple had abandoned their hectic pace in search of rest. He was certain Antil was in the temple, he had sensed him frequently during his healing trance. His master wouldn't leave him. Now that he held his clothing once more, the next matter before him was to locate his master. His eyes drifted upwards as if to look through the ceiling. When in search of masters, head where most could be found. It seemed as simple a strategy as any. Upon suiting up, Rais left the infirmary and ventured into the higher levels of the temple.
On the seventh level he overhead a familiar voice in conversation thanks to his enhanced perception developed through years of Jedi training. The hallway was dark save a solitary light towards its end. As he neared, he was able to make out more of the conversation taking place.
“...do you mean there is nothing on it? I know what I saw!”
Malak crept forward.
“Calm down Master Roon. I am not disputing what you saw. Perhaps it was merely the stress on your mind after nearly losing your padawan. But I'm telling you neither our analysis droids nor our best technicians could find any data on the pad.”
“I think I am in better control of my emotions than you give me cred...Rais! Thank the Force.”
Rais sensed an enormous out surge of emotion from Antil giving him reason to side more with the other master in this conversation, though he had no idea what was going on.
“Master Rendic was to comm me as soon as you were awake.”
“I'm sure you'll be getting a call from him soon.” Rais allowed a brief smile to cross his lips.
“How are you feeling?”
“About as good as new, just a little congestion in my lungs causing my voice to sound deeper,” Rais coughed and his throat responded with an uncomfortable itching sensation, “and just a tad raspy.”
“It suits your imposing nature.” Master Ell stood and ran his hand over his thinning hair. “I'll leave you two alone. It's late anyways and I have exercises to conduct in the morning.”
Rais gave Master Ell a nod as he passed, but Antil remained seated seemingly staring into space. “Master?” His master seemed to snap out of his trance. He rose and clasped forearms with Rais, drew him in, and gave him a firm pat on the back.
“Thank you for saving my life Rais. I owe you one, maybe two since you nearly died in the process.” Antil stepped back to look at his padawan and adopted a parental tone. “Sometimes I wish you would think things through before you act.”
“You know that's not always possible, Master. Often we must rely on instinct and allow the Force to flow through us. You taught me that.”
“I know Rais, but that didn't make it any easier watching you fall. You cut it awfully close this time, we nearly lost you. I nearly lost you.”
“That time comes for each of us, we must be prepared to accept it ourselves and accept it when the time comes for others we care about.” The two of them sat down in the hand-crafted wroshyr-wood chairs of the briefing room. “Any information on Senator Chi'tiil's whereabouts?”
“Zez-Kai and I were just discussing the remaining lead from our mission—a datapad I pulled off an armored bounty hunter.”
“Then the explosion didn't leave any survivors to question about their employer?”
Antil looked down towards the floor, “Yes, the explosion wiped out all the mercenaries.” He seemed distant again as he paused for a moment. “The datapad contained an image that resembled the Mandalorian crest used in the Great Sith War, but the blasted piles of scrap they call analysis droids haven't been able to find any data on it. I can't be sure of the image though, I only saw it for a moment.”
Rais looked on, slightly concerned at his master's behavior, before Antil met his gaze. “Mandalorians? Why would they hire mercenaries and what could they possibly want with Senator Chi'tiil?” His words were more for his own mental benefit. He thought the situation over. It was obvious that his master had been through a tough emotional spell, but he knew he wasn't one to hallucinate.
“It looks as if we are back at the beginning, only this time we have no leads as to the Senator's abductors save my wild accusation, and I’m now the crazy old Jedi close to reassign | |