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Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 9-3-08 / Chap. 26
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dianethx
Registered:
Mar '02
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Date Posted:
5/9 6:28pm
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RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-8-08 / Chap. 22
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That was really quite satisfying. I loved how he was able to get things out in the open by talking with his mother at her grave and having his father over hear him. They both need to let somethings go so that they can move on.
“I’m angry with him, mom. I’m angry because he wasn’t there to raise me, and I’m angry with him now because he is and there are days I find myself doing everything I can to drive him away.” He took a deep breath to calm himself, his lungs reflexively taking in more air as his composure continued to crumble. He pinched the bridge of his nose and then released it, his forehead resting against the heel of his hand. “I don’t want to lose him again, mom.” And I don’t want to get lost again. Brow furrowing with desperation, he said, "I remember everything you told me that night, but how do I put it into practice?"
I like that Qui-Gon is a mediator between them. Obi-Wan blames Kale and I can see why it would be a barrier to their relationship. It will be hard to get around.
Goob job.
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Itachi-Uchiha
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Date Posted:
5/18 5:45pm
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-8-08 / Chap. 22
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I'm glad Obi-Wan had a chance to get all of that off his chest. Maybe it will bring him some level of peace.  Interesting that Yoda sent Garen and his master. It will be interesting to see if they can form a friendship. Great job. 
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Headstrong : http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/27188681/p1/?5 Xanatos/Quinlan/Qui-Gon/Obi-Wan/Dooku Updated Sept 28th In Memoriam: Itachi Uchiha
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bek
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Date Posted:
5/26 5:29pm
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RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-8-08 / Chap. 22
- Date Edited:
5/26 5:30pm (1 edits total)
Edited By:
bek
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Gkilkenny I love the way you are giving Obi-Wan and his Father time to get to know each other.
They're relearning one another.
Somehow I think Obi-Wan will remember some details about his mothers death that won't be pleasant.
Excellent post.
Thank you!
Valairy_Scot Oh, yes, progress IS being made and I love it. What a wonderful update!
Thanks!
jedidas3 This part was absolutely heart wrenching!
Ah, success! 
What a beautiful picture you paint with your words. I can actually feel the heartache and the confusion of Obi-Wan. Well done!
Thanks!
So, Garen's there...that will be good for Obi.
Should be, if Garen doesn't overstep the bounds. 
I just absolutely adore this story and I can't wait for more. This is one of my favorites!
Thank you! 
VaderLVR64 Every chapter just enchants me more.
Thank you! Your kind words are a source of encouragement!
Cole_Kenobi Aww, I enjoyed this chapter. Obi-wan is definitely making progress. Nicely done. Very well written.
He is learning to trust those around him. Now if he could just let go of Nayt and Traest he may make progress by leaps and bounds.
wolf_kenobi Wonderful update! I'd say more, but wonderful seems to cover it pretty well. Obi is making true progress! Great job, and looking forward to more!
Thanks! Obi's coming around.
dianethx That was really quite satisfying. I loved how he was able to get things out in the open by talking with his mother at her grave and having his father over hear him. They both need to let some things go so that they can move on.
Obi-Wan has taken a big step in voicing some of the things he's held in. And Kale hearing it was something he needed but didn't have the courage to do face to face. The force works in mysterious ways! 
I like that Qui-Gon is a mediator between them. Obi-Wan blames Kale and I can see why it would be a barrier to their relationship. It will be hard to get around.
Qui-Gon is trying to stay on the sidelines as much as possible. As much as he cares for Obi-Wan and Kale, he doesn't want to interfere in any way that would contradict the reconciliation that they're trying to obtain.
Good job.
Thanks!
Itachi-Uchiha I'm glad Obi-Wan had a chance to get all of that off his chest. Maybe it will bring him some level of peace.
It will help!
Interesting that Yoda sent Garen and his master. It will be interesting to see if they can form a friendship.
Garen may have his work cut out for him.
Great job.
Thank you!
Author's Note: I wanted to thank everyone for their replies to the last update PM that was sent out. Thank you for taking the time to let me know your thoughts regarding this fic. All the comments were a source of encouragement and some gave me some things to think about. I appreciate everyone's comments. Again, thank you so much!
Chapter 23
“Kale, if I didn’t know better I’d say Master Yoda failed to inform you of our arrival.”
The older man smiled. “He informed me; I just didn’t think it would be this early.” Sitting down at the kitchen table, Kale rubbed both hands over his face to clear away the cobwebs of sleep that continued to cling to him. Once satisfied that he had removed any trace of exhaustion, he eyed his friends. The two had begun speaking of what had transpired since the last time they had met. When the topic changed to one Kale was more familiar with, he jumped into the conversation.
Obi-Wan and Garen sat listening to the adults talk, their senses taking in the playful banter between the three friends. When they began discussing politics, Obi-Wan tapped Garen on the arm and motioned to the back door. The padawan gratefully accepted and followed the youth outside. The noise the screen door made upon opening and closing brought fond memories back to Obi-Wan: he remembered so many times when he and his parents would go out onto the back deck after breakfast or dinner to enjoy the simplicity of just being in each others company. The beautiful scenery beyond the patio was just icing on the cake. It amazed him how simple inconsequential things or sounds could bring back the memories he had thought once lost to him because of his own need to bury them deep within.
The teen sat down on the porch swing. Not one to beat around the bush, Obi-Wan asked, “Why are you here?”
“Master Yoda thought the three of you could use some help where your grandmother is concerned. He also thought it might help if you had someone around your own age to talk to." Garen held up a hand to forestall the comment he knew was coming. "I told him you didn’t care for such, but he was rather insistent that I accompany Master Chlee.”
“We already discussed this.”
“Not exactly, Kenobi. I asked and you brushed me off.”
“It isn’t that I don’t like you or your entourage. But in my experience, life is easier without friends. Speaking of which, I can’t stand Bruck Chun.”
Garen briefly grinned at the change of subject, but decided to go with it, for now. “He does need to be taken down a few notches. I’ve had the pleasure a few times, but perhaps he’d straighten out for good if you took a swing at him.”
“Don’t tempt me.”
Garen walked over and sat down by the other teen. “My entourage?" He asked with the raise of an eyebrow. When the other didn't reply, merely smirked, he said, "You never did explain why you’d rather be a recluse. You seem to be doing well enough with Knight Reed.”
“Reed’s different. I knew him long before I knew he was a Jedi. He was always like an older brother and before you ask, being Jedi has nothing to do with it.”
“Then what does?”
“Why are you pushing?”
“A certain healer suggested you not be allowed to dodge the topic."
Obi-Wan got up and walked over to the banister of the porch. Relaxing against it, he shook his head. “Are you looking to change professions?”
Garen chuckled. "Not a chance. I rather enjoy being in the field; although, I did attend the Jedi Flight Academy until they closed the program."
Placing his hands on the railing, Obi-Wan turned away from his acquaintance to look out at the land.
The Jedi sighed. "You're not one for talking are you?"
"I don't exactly know you."
"But for some reason you want to trust me." Garen leaned forward. "What do you want to know? What you see at the Temple is what you get outside the Order as well. I’m not one for facades, Kenobi. If you need an ear to listen, your captive audience awaits." Garen spread his arms out in invitation.
Master Hebsley had pulled the apprentice aside before he left for Nyve, instructing him to push the other youth for information as to why he kept his age mates at bay. That was one area the young man had refused to speak of with the healer and he was hoping that someone younger might be able to pull it out of the teen.
Obi-Wan offered no reply. He lowered his head, looking down at the ground in front of the terrace; his shoulders slumped when he leaned forward, placing his weight on the railing. Garen had seen such posture before: he had witnessed those they were sent to help in the same position after having witnessed friends and/or loved ones being harmed or worse.
The force whisked by, a murmur in Garen's ear. His train of thought was on the right track. "He hurt them didn't he?"
The teen was silent for some time before he gave terse nod. "After that, I promised myself I’d never let anyone that close to me again.”
Garen tried to read the other through the force but came up against iron clad shields. “Your uncle’s gone, Obi-Wan. If you give us a chance, I can assure you we have been trained well to take care of ourselves; we won’t be easy targets. No one should have to go through life alone. You have your father and the others but if you want them, you have friends as well.” When Obi-Wan looked back over his shoulder only to quickly turn and look back out at the grassy treed land before him, Garen understood. Obi-Wan wasn’t convinced that the others would remain unharmed if he became a part of their circle.
“Who’s left?”
“Kalar.”
“And that is?”
“Nayt’s father.”
“What can I do to convince you that I can take care of myself?”
Obi-Wan turned to look at the padawan and shook his head. “Nothing.”
Having partially gained the information Hebsley wanted, Garen changed the subject. “I heard you’re pretty apt with a lightsaber. Care to help me practice? I’m a bit behind due to our last mission and there’s a kata I need help with.”
Garen stood and walked over to stand next to the teen. Obi-Wan glanced at him from the corner of his eye. “This isn’t going to help your cause.”
The padawan shrugged. “Didn’t figure it would.”
“I’m not that advanced in kata’s.”
“Good, neither am I.”
“Am I supposed to believe that?”
Garen smirked. “Not really, but I figure if I teach it to you then maybe it would help me get the part I'm struggling with straightened out.”
Resigning himself to the fact that Garen wasn’t going to go away, Obi-Wan half smiled. “All right, I’ll get a lightsaber.”
X
"Yoda said you had some good news for us." Kale reminded Chlee in hopes that she would finally tell them what was going on.
The backdoor opened and Obi-Wan stepped in. Looking to his father, he asked, "Can I borrow your saber? Garen knows a few tricks he wants to show me."
Unclipping the weapon from his belt, Kale tossed the cylinder over to his son without hesitation. "Remember to set it on low."
The young man grinned. "Always." Turning, the teen made sure to close the door on his way out.
Chlee turned a questioning look on her friend. "You wouldn't happen to be training him now, would you?"
"What makes you ask that?"
"He's using a saber, Qui."
"Yes, and Master Hebsley gained the Council's permission to allow him to do so."
"Forgive me, Kale. I didn't know."
The Jedi smiled at his friend. "You're forgiven. Now, I believe you have something to tell us."
"I researched the validation of Kana's custody claim. Because Nyve was a member of the Republic at the time the decree was filed, the Senate has jurisdiction over the matter. And since they've given the Jedi Order authority over Obi-Wan's case and in turn reinstated your parental rights, Mrs. Bailer's claim is null and void."
Kale and Qui-Gon were dumbfounded, yet pleased. "Nyve seceded from the Republic and Kana rules over this community. We've basically been imprisoned on this planet; how do we get around that without causing an incident?"
"She either withdraws her authority in the matter or the Republic will step in. We have Chancellor Valorum's permission to enforce the Senate's mandate regarding this."
Chlee watched her friends closely. "Kale?"
"Kana and Jes are going to stop by this afternoon. We’ll discuss this with her then."
X
Obi-Wan jumped back out of the reach of the green blade striking at his midsection. He laughed at the look of concentration on his competitor's face. "You need to learn to relax when sparring. You're too tense."
"Advice from a civilian?" Garen raised an eyebrow, questioning the logic of the other.
The youth shook his head while dodging a jab to his shoulder. "No. A suggestion from Master Kenobi."
The padawan had the grace to look embarrassed. His preconceived impression of someone not raised by the Jedi giving him advice had not gone well with the pride that briefly rose in regard to the suggestion. One move too slow, Garen failed to pivot when Obi-Wan made a stabbing motion toward his midsection, stopping just before he singed the other's tunic. "Kill point."
"You're a quick study."
The young man shrugged at the praise, still not quite comfortable receiving it. Bypassing the comment, Obi-Wan replied, "I understand what you mean. The point of the pivot is preceded by a series of thrusts which lead right into a downward slash. It's hard to combine them if the rotation isn't just right."
Garen's eyes held amusement. "You sound like an instructor." Giving his saber a once over, he asked, "Ready to go again? I need to nail this or I won't be allowed to move on to the next level."
Grinning in anticipation, Obi-Wan raised the saber to his forehead in salute; sparring was one area in his training that brought him complete peace. "Guess I just have the knack for it." When the apprentice across from him arranged himself in the ready position, he went on the attack.
X
Jes and Kana arrived at the Kenobi estate just after the noon hour. Letting herself in, Jes led her mother through the house until they reached the kitchen where Kale and Qui-Gon sat speaking with another Jedi. She stopped at the door, waiting to be acknowledged; she didn't have to wait long.
Almost as a unit, the three Jedi turned to look at the newcomers. Smiling a welcome, Kale greeted his sister-in-law, making introductions. "Jes, this is Chlee Rhara. She and her padawan have come to keep us company, so to speak." Clearing his throat, he proceeded. "Master Rhara, this is Jes Kalar, my sister-in-law, and her mother, Kana Bailer."
"I'm pleased to make your acquaintance," Chlee replied to the introductions.
Jes and Kana nodded a silent greeting. Turning to Kale, Jes asked, "Where's Obi-Wan?"
"He's out back." He looked at his mother-in-law before adding, a smirk on his lips. "Sparring with Garen."
Kana's jaw tightened at the jibe, but otherwise she remained silent. Jes turned to her mother momentarily before heading out the back door. She stopped at the edge of the deck, watching with wide eyes as her nephew and another young man moved at incredible speeds. A sound like laughter reached her ears and she smiled with joy. It had been many years since her nephew voluntarily allowed himself to enjoy just being around another his own age. She was pleased that he and Garen seemed to have reached some sort of agreement. When the teens came to a standstill, she narrowed her eyes at the look of intense concentration on both faces. Her eyes roamed over the situation, finally resting on the angles of the sabers: a draw then. The two young men disengaged their light sabers and turned to walk back toward the house. Obi-Wan stopped upon the sight of his aunt leaning against the banister of the deck. A wide smile of delight lit his handsome features and he took off at a run, passing Garen's long strides with little effort. Reaching the porch, he jumped up onto the wooden planks and embraced his aunt, holding onto her with a strength he didn't know he possessed. When Garen reached the patio, Obi-Wan pulled away long enough to introduce them before telling Garen he'd be along shortly.
Jes and her nephew took a seat on the steps of the patio. "I missed you," he said.
"I've only been gone a week, Obi-Wan."
"It seemed longer." He looked down toward his hands, a slight blush staining his cheeks.
She reached over and took one of his hands in hers. "I know I wasn't around much while we were on Coruscant, but I wanted to give you and your father a chance to reconcile. You were parted for far too long. During that time, Tahl showed me many opportunities just waiting for someone like me. There's a whole galaxy out there. Qui-Gon feels the same, hence his unobtrusive presence over the last months. He's there when you need him but not enough to interfere in the progress you and Kale would otherwise make. I wasn't trying to snub you or the others by any means; do you understand?"
"Yes. But I've still missed you."
"Like Qui-Gon, I'm always around."
The teen chuckled but then grew quiet. Swiping his tunic sleeve across his face to remove the residue from his recent workout, he said, "I visited my mother's grave."
Jes's smile held sadness. "As did I." At Obi-Wan's questioning look, she explained. "I wanted the same as you I imagine: to say goodbye. But also to apologize for the life you lived while under my care." Holding up a hand to forestall his coming words, she continued, "She entrusted you to me, Obi-Wan. I love you as if you were my own child, and I couldn't protect you. I couldn't – can't – make things right for you; you know that only you can do that. I saw the verse on the bottom of Cera's tombstone. Remember what she taught you, young one. Life is full of risks, but don't be afraid to take a chance even if it means more heart ache –"
"You seemed to have gotten past this with no ill effects," he interrupted with a somewhat bitter but envious tone.
Jes shook her head to the negative. "If that's what you think, then you don't know me as well as you thought. I struggle every day with the aftereffects of what we lived through. But I have discovered, thanks to that healer of yours, that life is full of choices. I have the choice to work hard and overcome my past, or to let it rule me and every decision I make here on out. Hebsley gave me some good advice the last time I saw him. He said the best revenge against someone who has hurt you is to prove them wrong. So do it; show Nayt and Traest how wrong they were about you. I told you once that inside you there was a man waiting to make his entrance and that he would know when it was time to emerge. That time is nigh, Obi-Wan. He's emerging, you only need to let go and trust him."
"You sound so sure."
"Because I am."
"You always know what to say. Kale's tried several times over to explain what I'm feeling, but only you have the insight to make it make sense." He squeezed her hand. "I loved my mother very much; I still love her. And there's nothing and no one that can ever replace her." He looked at his aunt, his eyes focused on hers. "But you come so close. You've always been neck and neck with her. When I would have nightmares, you seemed to know what she would have done because it felt like she was still there with me during the times you held me, and when I needed a good scolding, the look you wore came so close to the one I remembered." He swallowed, nervous about his next words and fear that she would reject them. "You're the closest thing I have had to a mother the last several years, and I wanted to thank you for helping me to get through them. I know it wasn't easy for you being placed between your husband and your nephew, a child you didn't bear and didn't have to take in. But every time, you chose me over him. Why?"
Jes took her other hand and cupped his cheek, rubbing her thumb over the lightly stubbled skin. "You were a child who had no defense other than what I gave you, as lacking as it was. You were innocent of his crimes, you were Cera and Kale's son, but the main reason is because I love you and despite who bore you, you were mine."
A shaky smile graced the teen's lips. "I love you too."
Clearing her throat, Jes released his hand and patted his arm. "All right, enough of this. Dry it up, gather your composure and let's go see what Kana wanted to speak with your father about."
"Grandmother's here?" Jes was saddened by the trepidation she heard in the cultured voice.
"She's not here to cause trouble; she's here to seek help."
"What's wrong?"
Standing up, she offered him her hand. "Let's go find out."
"Don't you know?"
"Like I told your father, it's not my story to tell."
X
Qui-Gon stood from his seat and walked around the table to stand nearer to the door. "Why don't we go into the common room?"
Agreeing with the suggestion, the three Jedi and Kana walked into the living area and took seats around the room. When the governess looked back toward the kitchen, Kale mentioned, "They'll be in shortly."
A young man walked into the room and paused when he saw the newcomer. Master Rhara cleared her throat to gain his attention. "Padawan, this is Obi-Wan's grandmother, Kana Bailer. Mrs. Bailer, my apprentice, Garen Muln."
Embarrassed by his current appearance, Garen smiled sheepishly before giving a bow of respect. Turning to his mentor, he asked, "Master, would it be all right if I cleaned up?"
Chlee grinned and made a motion with her hand in a gesture of trying to clear the smell from her nostrils. "I think that would be best, Padawan."
Once the young man had left the room, two individuals entered in his absence. Obi-Wan greeted his grandmother and then looked to his father and Qui-Gon. Before he could ask the words, Kale motioned for him to follow Padawan Muln's example and clean up. Grinning despite himself, he said, "And here I thought parents were supposed to accept their children unconditionally: sweat, grime, smell and all."
Kale chuckled while watching his son climb the stairs two at a time.
"You've doing a wonderful job with him, Kale. He's more open than he used to be."
Jes's quietly spoken words caught the Jedi's attention. "It's a hit and miss situation."
"I know, but nevertheless, you've done well."
-----signature-----
Update 10/2/08- Chap. 40- Life Beyond the Code (Obi-Wan/Anakin) - http://boards.theforce.net/The_Saga/b10476/20820324 Update 9/3/08- Chap. 26 - Not Myself - (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon/Oc's) - Before the Saga Update 9/3/08 - Part 6 - Strength to Begin Anew
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Valairy_Scot
Title: PT Rewrite Winner
Registered:
Sep '05
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Date Posted:
5/26 6:45pm
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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...you've done well."
... and so has the author. Lovely, lovely chapter.
The Jedi sighed. "You're not one for talking are you?"
"I don't exactly know you."
"But for some reason you want to trust me." Garen leaned forward. "What do you want to know? What you see at the Temple is what you get outside the Order as well. I’m not one for facades, Kenobi. If you need an ear to listen, your captive audience awaits." Garen spread his arms out in invitation.
Great start, Garen, Obi-Wan needs the straight talk.
“Good, neither am I.”
“Am I supposed to believe that?”
Garen smirked. “Not really, but I figure if I teach it to you then maybe it would help me get the part I'm struggling with straightened out.”
Resigning himself to the fact that Garen wasn’t going to go away, Obi-Wan half smiled. “All right, I’ll get a lightsaber.”
It's working, Garen, it's working. You're interacting.
...Hebsley gave me some good advice the last time I saw him. He said the best revenge against someone who has hurt you is to prove them wrong. So do it; show Nayt and Traest how wrong they were about you. I told you once that inside you there was a man waiting to make his entrance and that he would know when it was time to emerge. That time is nigh, Obi-Wan. He's emerging, you only need to let go and trust him."
"You sound so sure."
"Because I am."
Yes, Obi-Wan needs the reassurance from someone who's been in a similar position.
Jes took her other hand and cupped his cheek, rubbing her thumb over the lightly stubbled skin. "You were a child who had no defense other than what I gave you, as lacking as it was. You were innocent of his crimes, you were Cera and Kale's son, but the main reason is because I love you and despite who bore you, you were mine."
A shaky smile graced the teen's lips. "I love you too."
Ah, I'm mush here. I just  their relationship.
-----signature-----
http://boards.theforce.net/fan_fiction_resource/b10304/25405090/p3/?52 Prolific Author thread: list & links there. Muse fueled by coffee. Often AWOL despite frequent sipping. Writes on inspiration, not a schedule. Proud master of several padawans
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Sabriel_Orion
Registered:
Mar '08
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Date Posted:
5/26 9:11pm
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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I can't remember if I've commented in here before, or just lurked, but I definitely want you to know I love your story. It's a lot better than anything I could do. XD
Anyway, please keep up the good work, and add me to your pm list.
-----signature-----
"Does the Walker choose the Path, or the Path the Walker?" from Sabriel, by Garth Nix Sabriel: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v409/sabriel_orion/PadawanSabrielOrionColored.png
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Gkilkenny
Registered:
Mar '04
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Date Posted:
5/27 4:11am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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The interaction between Garen and Obi felt right.
The whole post was brilliant. 
-----signature-----
Padawan to p_stotts
Peace over anger - honour over hate - Strength over fear.
Links to Stories in my Bio. Obi-Wan forever.
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jedidas3
Registered:
Apr '07
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Date Posted:
5/27 5:59am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Loved the interaction between Obi and Garen...what am I talking about? I loved the whole thing! You are doing an outstanding job with this story, my friend. I just hope that with Obi's progress, nothing happens to set him back. 
Well done!
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VaderLVR64
Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots
Registered:
Feb '04
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Date Posted:
5/27 6:43am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Ah Garen. Loved it all.
"You've doing a wonderful job with him, Kale. He's more open than he used to be."
Jes's quietly spoken words caught the Jedi's attention. "It's a hit and miss situation."
"I know, but nevertheless, you've done well."
-----signature-----
If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories.
Proud New Army Mom - off to bootcamp!
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ratna
Registered:
Mar '07
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Date Posted:
5/27 12:44pm
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Loved the Superman reference!
"... I'm always around."
And this:
" ... I couldn't - can't - make things right for you; you know that only you can do that. ..."
So true.
Mysterious conversations in the drawing room ... Sounds like the game is afoot!
-----signature-----
Ou n'a tu pas tellement aime quelqu'un que tu avais peur de l'aimer au peur des souvenirs?
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Itachi-Uchiha
Registered:
Jul '07
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Date Posted:
5/28 8:17pm
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Loved Obi-Wan and Garen's interaction. I'm so glad Obi-Wan felt comfortable enough to admit to his fears.
-----signature-----
Headstrong : http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/27188681/p1/?5 Xanatos/Quinlan/Qui-Gon/Obi-Wan/Dooku Updated Sept 28th In Memoriam: Itachi Uchiha
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dianethx
Registered:
Mar '02
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Date Posted:
5/29 4:50am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Ah, that was lovely. I especially liked the conversation between Obi and Garen.
Obi-Wan offered no reply. He lowered his head, looking down at the ground in front of the terrace; his shoulders slumped when he leaned forward, placing his weight on the railing. Garen had seen such posture before: he had witnessed those they were sent to help in the same position after having witnessed friends and/or loved ones being harmed or worse.
The force whisked by, a murmur in Garen's ear. His train of thought was on the right track. "He hurt them didn't he?"
The teen was silent for some time before he gave terse nod. "After that, I promised myself I’d never let anyone that close to me again.”
How terribly sad to be so isolated from everyone and know that if you became friends with someone, they'd get hurt.
Good job.
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p_stotts
Registered:
Jan '01
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Date Posted:
5/30 10:32am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Absolutely lovely story! I love Obi/Qui stories, but now I've become a fan of Kale, as well as your writing. I just spent the better part of two days reading what you've written so far. I must say, you've done your psychological research. Your characters ring true...no easy outs, hard decisions, and the lot. Great job. I look forward to reading more of your story!
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If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans for your life.
Proud master to Gkilkenny!
Stories in my bio.
9/19/2008 is National Talk Like A Pirate day in the U.S. Everyone else join in too! Arr! Avast ye landlubbers!
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wolf_kenobi
Registered:
Nov '07
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Date Posted:
6/6 10:41am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23
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Lovely post. Loved the interaction between Garen and Obi-Wan. Obi certainly takes to saber dueling well. Also the interaction betwen Jes and Obi was sweet and well written.
Eager to see how this goes! Superb post!
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Is God willing to prevent evil but not able? Then he is not omnipotent.
Is he able but not willing? Then he is malevolent.
Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil?
Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God. -Epicurus
Proud Vegan
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bek
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
7/11 11:22am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23 (Thank you for the noms!)
- Date Edited:
7/11 3:51pm (3 edits total)
Edited By:
bek
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Valairy_Scot ... and so has the author. Lovely, lovely chapter.
Thank you!
Great start, Garen, Obi-Wan needs the straight talk.
Garen’s not one to mince words.
It's working, Garen, it's working. You're interacting.
Yes, Obi-Wan needs the reassurance from someone who's been in a similar position.
He is more apt to listen to her.
Ah, I'm mush here. I just their relationship.
Thanks! The life they’ve been through did much to strengthen their relationship.
Sabriel_Orion I can't remember if I've commented in here before, or just lurked, but I definitely want you to know I love your story. It's a lot better than anything I could do. XD
Thank you for the kind words! They are much appreciated!
Anyway, please keep up the good work, and add me to your pm list.
I will certainly do my best. And I’d be happy to add you to the list.
Gkilkenny The interaction between Garen and Obi felt right. The whole post was brilliant.
Couldn’t leave Garen out; Obi-Wan needs a friend. And thank you!
jedidas3 Loved the interaction between Obi and Garen...what am I talking about? I loved the whole thing! You are doing an outstanding job with this story, my friend. I just hope that with Obi's progress, nothing happens to set him back.
Thank you!
As for Obi’s progress, we’ll have to see.
VaderLVR64 Ah Garen. Loved it all.
But Garen made the post, right?
ratna Loved the Superman reference!
You know, at first I didn’t understand what you meant. So I went back and reread the post and then it was like a slap to the forehead and a big ‘Oh!’. I didn’t even realize it when I wrote it. 
Mysterious conversations in the drawing room ... Sounds like the game is afoot!
Some thing may be lurking around the corner.
Itachi-Uchiha Loved Obi-Wan and Garen's interaction.
Thanks!
I'm so glad Obi-Wan felt comfortable enough to admit to his fears.
Fears that may come back to haunt him.
dianethx Ah, that was lovely. I especially liked the conversation between Obi and Garen.
I was nervous about writing Garen; I’m so glad he came across well. Thank you for the comment!
How terribly sad to be so isolated from everyone and know that if you became friends with someone, they'd get hurt.
Leverage to keep him in line. 
Good job.
Thanks!
p_stotts Absolutely lovely story! I love Obi/Qui stories, but now I've become a fan of Kale, as well as your writing. I just spent the better part of two days reading what you've written so far. I must say, you've done your psychological research. Your characters ring true...no easy outs, hard decisions, and the lot. Great job. I look forward to reading more of your story!
Thank you for reading! I’m glad you’re enjoying it.
wolf_kenobi Lovely post. Loved the interaction between Garen and Obi-Wan. Obi certainly takes to saber dueling well. Also the interaction between Jes and Obi was sweet and well written. Eager to see how this goes! Superb post!
Thanks! And for Obi-Wan and light sabers, well, I figured whatever universe he’s written in, whether cannon or alternate, he’d be a natural.
Thank you all so much for the nominations! I don’t have the words to express how much it means to me, but I'll try anyway: Thankful beyond belief to my readers, elated, on cloud nine, giddy, surprised, and many other words that are escaping my mind right now but hopefully that gives you an idea. Thank you! 
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Update 10/2/08- Chap. 40- Life Beyond the Code (Obi-Wan/Anakin) - http://boards.theforce.net/The_Saga/b10476/20820324 Update 9/3/08- Chap. 26 - Not Myself - (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon/Oc's) - Before the Saga Update 9/3/08 - Part 6 - Strength to Begin Anew
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bek
Registered:
Jul '05
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Date Posted:
7/11 11:54am
Subject:
RE: Not Myself (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, OC's) Updated 5-26-08 / Chap. 23 (Thank you for the noms!)
- Date Edited:
7/12 5:05pm (6 edits total)
Edited By:
bek
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Author Note: This is a rather long chapter, but I couldn’t find a good place to slice it into two. And this may not be the right place in the chapter to post this first part, but I didn’t want to interrupt the chapter with an author’s note explaining that this part – Governor Kalar and his guest – took place shortly before Obi-Wan’s return to Nyve.
Hope you enjoy!
Chapter 24
“Governor, there is a gentleman in the foyer requesting an audience with you. He seems familiar, sir; he says he has not been home to Nyve for many years.”
Gawain Kalar looked up from the mountain of paperwork in front of him and dismissively waved his right hand. “I’ll be there momentarily.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll let our guest know.”
The man in question paced the rectangular entrance hall; he smiled to himself, it had indeed been a long time since he’d been home. He had a proposal to offer, one the Governor could not ignore.
“May I help you, sir?” The voice behind him paused his musings; he turned to greet the very source he had come to see. The ruler of Kalar Providence chuckled.
“I should have known not to believe those rumors. How are you?” He clasped hands with the figure.
“I’ve been better.”
“What can I do for you?”
“Well, it appears I’ve missed out on a substantial payday. And I think I know a way to get it back and make you a profit in the process.”
Kalar’s interest peaked. “I’m listening.”
“Bailer providence.”
“Explain.”
“Within three years, Kana must step down as Governess to hand over the providence to Jole’s predecessor: Obi-Wan. What say, we make sure that doesn’t happen?”
Eyes squinting with suspicion, Jonas asked, “And how do you propose we do that?”
“I know you’ve struck a deal with Bailer’s cousin, Marius. I want in. I want half the net worth of property and township. That would more than cover my losses.”
Kalar nodded thoughtfully. “How does this benefit me? I’m not one to give out charity; I rather enjoy my wealth.”
“You’ll be rid of me. Isn’t that benefit enough?”
“Meaning?”
“I could make your life miserable.” The guest walked over to Gawain until they were face to face. He smirked, his features twisting in an unfamiliar fashion. “Would you care to try me?”
Having seen the aftereffects of this man’s handiwork, Kalar decided getting rid of him was profit enough. Deciding he would not allow his guest to see his uneasiness, he uninterestedly walked over to a small cart in the corner and poured himself a drink. Nonchalantly he asked, “And how do you propose to keep young Kenobi from taking control of his inheritance? You would do well to remember that even I have boundaries.”
The man’s smile left Kalar uneasy. “Leave that to me.”
X
Obi-Wan sat comfortably on the sofa between Kale and Jes while Garen sat on the floor leaning back against the chair his mentor currently occupied. Qui-Gon paced slowly behind the couch while Kana sat across from them having just finished explaining her recent actions.
"Why didn't you just tell me to begin with?” Obi-Wan questioned. “I would have understood."
"I can see now that I should have."
Chlee clasped her hands together before speaking. "You do realize the Republic's position on the custody arrangement as we discussed earlier."
Kana nodded her understanding. "I won't press the matter."
"Did grandfather leave any other possible solution?"
"No, Obi-Wan. His wishes were clearly stated."
"Assuming guardianship of Bailer Providence isn’t something I’ve ever thought of, let alone wanted. I don't believe the position would suit me. And the providence needs someone who has a heart for it."
“You have the ability to take care of it, young one. You just have to believe yourself capable. Your grandfather set it up so the estate and surrounding lands would go to you, his grandson. He firmly believed that one day you would reside over it all.”
“But that was before….” Obi-Wan interjected. “He couldn’t have seen then how things would turn out. And maybe at one time I would have been suited for this but now is not that time.”
“And what is it you feel you are suited for?” Kana asked, knowing she was touching on the fringes of a sore subject.
The teen lowered his head a moment, feeling the weight of expectation upon him. He felt his father reach over and place a hand on his shoulder, offering support. Meeting his grandmother’s gaze, he said, “I know how this will sound…but it wasn’t fair of Jole to place this upon me. There has to be another way.”
“An alternative that we will find,” Qui-Gon added with assurance. He was tired of standing by watching as the governess pressured his padawan – yes, that was how he thought of Obi-Wan – into a decision he was not yet ready to commit to. “Give us some time and we will find a suitable option.”
Kana reluctantly gave her consent. As she rose to leave, Kale mentioned one last thing. “I expect that you will have our ship returned to the space port and our names cleared of any wrongdoing.”
Releasing a deep frustrated breath, Kana turned to her son-in-law. With a civility she did not quiet feel, she answered, “Of course. It will be taken care of today.”
Kale offered an appreciate tilt of his head. “Thank you.”
The elder woman caught her breath when Obi-Wan gave her a genuine unguarded smile. For a brief moment, she saw Cera looking out at her from within the smile of her son. With her attention momentarily diverted, she failed to notice the teen’s approach until he had enveloped her within his embrace. “Thank you, Nana.” He said. Releasing her, he quickly gave her a kiss on the cheek before turning toward the kitchen. He knew there was much to do to clear up the situation at hand, but he was not yet ready to pursue it. He felt light hearted for the first time in many years and he wanted to live in the moment. “I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m starving.”
Garen hopped up from his place on the floor and hurried after the other youth. “Me too. I think they’ve neglected feeding us long enough.”
Having seen the look of decision in her nephew’s eyes, Jes allowed him to take the lead in how their day would play out. She shook her head as she followed after the boys. “Just because you two worked up an appetite doesn’t mean that the rest of the house has to jump at the grumble of your stomachs.”
Obi-Wan turned around, feeling something within him that he hadn’t felt since before his parents died: carefree and playful. Looking at his aunt with a look that had many times gotten him whatever he wanted from the adults in his life, he replied, “But I’m hungry Aunt Jes.” Then he smiled, “Make my favorite?”
Knowing exactly what he was doing, she rolled her eyes and pushed past him into the cooking area. Opening cupboards and slamming drawers in search of the ingredients she would need, she mumbled under her breath about how spoiled her nephew was and how he had never learned that tactic from her. Garen grinned at his age mate and lifted his hand in salute. Obi-Wan offered one back before turning to give his aunt a hand with the meal preparations.
X
“So where do we begin?” Chlee asked.
“The Hall of Records.” Qui-Gon replied as if it were the only logical explanation. His eyes turned to gaze into the kitchen area, a smile forming on his lips as he watched his colleague leaning in the doorway, taking in the cheerful, relaxed sight of his son before him.
Snapping her fingers to gain the other’s attention, Chlee replied, “We could have Jocasta forward information from the Senatorial archives.”
Qui-Gon shook his head to the negative while refocusing his attention onto the matter at hand. “My senses tell me we’ll find what we need on Nyve.”
“I hope you’re right. Otherwise young Kenobi may just become the new Governor of Bailer providence.”
A loud crash from the next room had both Jedi turning to see what had happened. When laughter erupted a moment later with several expletives following in a female voice, Qui-Gon saw Kale double over just inside the door way. The other man stood, a grin on his face, and said something while pointing to an area that was out of sight of the main living area. When he then raised his hands in supplication and started backing away, Qui-Gon smiled and looked at Chlee. “Boys will be boys.”
The other Master just shook her head. “I’d better go help Jes; she appears to be outnumbered.”
X
“What exactly are we looking for again?”
“Anything regarding leadership and lineage. The ones at the top always leave themselves a way out; we just have to find the loop hole.”
Chlee sighed in frustration as she closed yet another doctorial, placing it back on its shelf only to pull another one down. “Perhaps we’re looking in the wrong section.” When Kale and Qui-Gon gave her semi-mutinous looks, she held up one hand in surrender. “We’ve been at this for over a week and we’ve yet to find anything. I’m just saying that maybe we should expand our search.”
Kale leaned back in his chair. “Maybe she’s right. Maybe we should call Jocasta and have her raid the Senatorial files for anything and everything regarding heads of state and their lines of dissention.”
Without looking away from the material he was studying, Qui-Gon answered as he turned the page. “As I’ve stated before, my senses tell me we’ll find what we need here on Nyve. Besides, I contacted her the day before yesterday and she came up empty handed.”
Closing the book he held a little more forceful than was necessary, Kale replied, “And you didn’t think to tell us?”
Looking up, Qui-Gon smirked. “And have you believe I was doubting the force?” He shook his head in mock reprimand.
Chlee took the book in Kale’s hand and walked toward the stacks behind them. “Force forbid, we couldn’t have that,” she said sarcastically. Reaching up to the next shelf, Chlee pulled another manual from the ledge and walked back to the table she had been sitting at off and on for the last week.
Deciding to try another location, Kale walked to the back of the archive. Reaching the farthest shelving unit from their location, he ran a finger along the bindings as he slowly walked along the length of the shelving unit reading the imprinted titles and dates along the hardened and some time brittle spines.
“Are the boys still with Jes?” He called to his colleagues.
“Affirmative,” Chlee called back. “Why, is something wrong?”
Kale shook his head ‘no’ and then realized she couldn’t see it. “No. I just have a bad feeling.”
“Don’t center on your anxieties, Ka. We’ve got a lot left to do here.” Chlee responded.
Kale approached the table with an older manual in his hands. Sitting down across from Chlee, he sorted through the stack of books in front of him, stacking them and moving them out of his way. “Master Yoda always said I should be mindful of these feelings.”
Qui-Gon peered over the book he was sifting through. “But not at the expense of the moment, my friend. The sooner we find an alternative for Obi-Wan, the sooner we can all go home.”
Kale shrugged. “I guess.”
His colleague chuckled. “You sound like your son.”
Meeting Qui-Gon’s gaze, he smirked. “Now you know what you have to look forward to. That is, if the Council ever decides to officially train him.”
“What if he doesn’t want to be trained?” Chlee questioned.
“If it is ever offered, it will be his decision,” Kale replied. Qui-Gon smiled at his friend’s words, but didn’t say anything; instead, he turned back to the stack of manuals in front of him.
X
Obi-Wan and Garen followed behind Jes as they made their way through the crowded streets of the market. Vendors from all over the planet as well as neighboring systems gathered once every year to sell their goods and services. A favorite of the locals, the bazaar brought in a wide variety of customers from varying backgrounds and nationalities. Nothing was priced so high that it couldn’t be sold. Bright colors and displays lined the local shops and outdoor retailers. The aroma of various custom cuisines could be smelled from blocks away.
Memories washed over Obi-Wan. His took in the sights and sounds. He had almost forgotten the excitement and joy of this particular three day event. His mother and grandmother had always taken him to the fair located on the outskirts of the market. He remembered the rides, the food, the prizes, and the wonderful bargains his mother had always found to purchase. Kale had only ever gone twice, having arrived home on a layover a day or two before the affair began. His father had carried him through the streets astride his shoulders, allowing him to view events without the limitations of his own natural height. Reed had also accompanied them once; the two boys had spent the entirety of the day playing games and riding the carnival rides.
Stopping behind Jes as she browsed through a selection of items on the cart in front of her, Obi-Wan and Garen took in the proceedings around them. Blue eyes suddenly darted to a far off corner, growing wide with disbelief and a slight twinge of fear. Obi-Wan backed up a step or two, an unconscious act on his part, to get away from the specter. When Garen nudged him, the other teen’s eyes briefly met his, panic still embezzled within them. “Did you see that?”
Garen looked the direction the other was pointing, but then shook his head in confusion. “See what?”
“Over there!”
Sensing the urgency in Obi-Wan’s voice and seeing the uneasiness in his movements, Garen tried desperately to find what the younger man was trying to show him. “I’m sorry, I don’t understand what it is you’re referring to.” Garen’s voice held worry and concern.
Turning back toward the spot he had first seen it, Obi-Wan’s eyes came up empty. He stuttered several times, looking back and forth between Garen and the alleyway. “He was there.”
Having caught the tail end of their conversation, Jes asked, “Who was there?”
Eyes not leaving the area where he had seen the image, Obi-Wan shook his head. “Nothing. Let’s go.” He began walking down the street, his nerves on edge. Three blocks later, Garen managed to distract him by suggesting he get them some drinks and lunch while the other two looked around a nearby shop.
Locating a food cart across the way, Obi-Wan gathered their lunch items and walked over to some outdoor tables set up just outside and to the left of the shop Jes had entered with Garen. He had just set the items down when a hand on his shoulder forcefully pulled him into the alleyway in back and slammed him into the wall of the same store Jes occupied.
“Thought you could get rid of me, did you?”
The teen was paralyzed with shock. When he finally managed to speak, his words shook with incredulity, “You’re not real.”
The man smirked. “Perhaps you should start checking the bodies you leave behind.”
Obi-Wan shook his head in denial and began to struggle, trying to get away from what he was sure was just an apparition of his own mind. “The meds took you; they said you were dead!” He suddenly found the force waiting for him. He pushed the man back and had just managed to get past him when the other grabbed his ankle, tripping him. The larger man hurriedly straddled the youth’s chest, pinning his arms beneath his knees.
Having cuffed the young man on the right side of his face in an attempt to temporarily stun him, the man took advantage of his momentarily confounded mind and leaned down so he was closer to the youth’s ear; he did not want to be misunderstood. “You’re keeper’s no longer around to stop me from inflicting my own brand of justice. You cost me my payday, a sum you’re going to help me recollect.” He shook the boy beneath him to emphasize his point before grabbing the front of the youth’s tunic and pulling him closer, if that were possible. “You’re going to leave Nyve and the Bailer providence to Governor Kalar, do you understand?”
When the teen shook his head, the man tightened his grip. “There’s no one left to save you, little one.” A cruel smirk and then, “You think your father cares about you? You’re just excess luggage that he’s stuck with; he never wanted you. Why do you think he was never around?” The specter laughed, seeing that his words were starting to confuse the boy. “Leave, and don’t come back.” Hearing a commotion off to his right, the man released the teen, rose from his position on the ground and left.
X
Uninterested, Garen looked around at the brightly colored fabric and wondered why people would want to wear something that obvious. He looked down at the tan casual clothing he wore and thought the neutral shade was more than practical. One of the perks was that it allowed him to move around a situation unnoticed because he often blended into the background. As much as he tried, sometimes he just didn’t understand other cultures.
“This dark green would go with your eyes.”
The padawan looked at Jes nonplussed. “Why would I need my clothing to go with my eyes?” He asked.
Jes grinned. “Because, it may get you that date you’ve always wanted.”
A blush stained the Jedi’s cheeks and then a thought occurred to him. “Is that how Obi-Wan got his first date? You picked out just the right color?”
The middle aged woman picked up another cloth selection, feeling the texture and observing the weave. “Oh, force, no. He was perfectly capable finding his own. Though, he would have to admit that the blue tunic I made him did garner him plenty a complement.”
“So, I take it there was someone special in his life?”
Jes set the material down, a saddened look coming over her features. “Once.”
“What happened?”
Jes turned to look at the young man. “She died, and the friends she was with – her and Obi-Wan’s friends – weren’t able to help her. They were all severely hurt in one way or another. The authorities said it was an accident.”
“Did anyone believe them?”
“No one could prove otherwise.” Jes started to walk away when Garen startled. “What is it?”
“Something’s wrong.” When he pulled his saber from inside his cloak and started for the door, Jes followed.
X
Obi-Wan lay where he was; his hands shook as they came up and covered his face as he tried to come to grips with what had just happened. He heard fast approaching footsteps and tried to scramble back away from the person coming. Garen knelt down beside him, halting the other’s retreat. “Are you all right?”
The teen didn’t respond verbally, just shook his head to the negative. Helping the other up, the padawan guided him back to the street and to the table where Obi-Wan had previously left their lunch; Jes was there waiting. When she saw him, she couldn’t help but have a flashback from all the times he’d been roughed up before.
Making sure the young man was steady in his seat, Garen and Jes each sat down on either side of him. Taking the initiative, Jes pulled one of the cups from the holder it was in and held it out to her nephew. “Here, drink this.” She pressed the cup into his trembling hands. Helping him to raise it to his mouth, she was just about to take the drink back when he dropped it to the duracreet beneath him. He swallowed hard, his eyes focused, steady on one spot in front of him. He made to stand but Jes held him in place. “Obi-Wan?”
Garen turned his gaze in the direction his friend was looking and saw a man standing at the end of the block. The man smirked at the youth, his eyes cold and calculating and then in a sudden rush of people, he was gone.
Obi-Wan’s jaw clenched tightly, the action seen by the movement of his cheek. Knowing this was not the place to try to discuss this, Garen suggested they return to the Kenobi estate.
X
“He’s finally asleep.” Jes whispered, rising from the side of her nephew’s bed and motioning for the other teen to follow her out.
Garen paced a moment before complying. When they reached the bottom of the stairs, he asked, “Why’s he protecting who did this?”
“You have to understand. When things like this happened, he would withdraw into himself; he handled it in his own way. When he was ready to talk, I listened, but I never pushed.”
“Maybe you should have. Maybe then he would have let someone help him.” Garen replied heatedly.
Taken back by the young man’s anger, Jes said, “You barely know him.”
“And yet he’s my friend, even if he doesn’t claim me as his.”
“He’s lucky to have you, Garen. Perhaps you’ll be able to accomplish what I couldn’t.”
Anger deflating, the padawan apologized. “If it weren’t for you, he never would have made it through the last eight years.”
“Seven. These last months should be credited to Kale, Qui-Gon and Hebsley.” She sized up the other occupant a moment. “And you.”
“What puzzles me the most is that Obi-Wan could have taken his attacker down without difficulty. Why did he allow the person such liberty in his abuse of him?”
Jes sighed. People who had never lived through what they had just didn’t understand.
“Garen, you were raised in a place where justice always won out over adversity, or if not always, then typically. Obi-Wan was taught that hardship and suffering were something to be endured because fairness had no place in the life he lived. Unfortunately, Nayt and Traest’s lessons stuck with him more so than mine. He saw my instruction as a fairytale: equality, love, a home without abuse didn’t exist, not in his world. And unless it was tangible, he didn’t believe it. This attack threw him right back into that submissive, sometime rebellious, cowering role he had lived in for far too long. So please forgive him if he didn’t immediately disable his assailant because the past months of being taught that there is a larger world out there and that the way he was treated was wrong have yet to be permanently ingrained into him. He’s still recovering; give him time to get there.”
Garen nodded. “I apologize; I meant no disrespect.”
“I know. But perhaps you should think before you speak.”
Smiling, the padawan replied, “My master tells me I’m too bold for my own good.”
“There’s nothing wrong with being inquisitive or asking questions, but sometimes, the answer will come to the one who ponders first. And if it doesn’t, then inquiring would be the way to find out.”
A beeping came from the comm. unit. Jes closed her eyes a moment and then reopened them. “That would be Kale.” Walking over to the comm. unit, Jes took a deep breath before pressing the button to answer. What she had to tell him would not be taken well.
X
Kale stood at the foot of his son’s bed. Jes had done an impeccable job of cleaning him up. The only remaining evidence of the teen’s plight was the cut above his left eyebrow and the abrasive bruise marring his right cheek. She did an excellent job because this has happened one too many times, he thought. Releasing the sudden rush of anger his son’s injuries provoked in him, he sat down beside the youth and placed his hand over the bruise. Warm currents of the force flowed into the injury, the colors rapidly fading until there was a slight yellowish hue left behind. Satisfied that nothing had been broken or fractured and that the pain in this cheek would now be nonexistent, Kale started to leave when something caught him by the wrist. Looking down, he saw eyes so much like his own begging him to stay.
Using the force to pull a chair over next to the bed, he sat down. “I’m not going anywhere,” he said quietly.
Satisfied, the youth quickly fell back to sleep. The fact that his wrist was still tightly held within Obi-Wan’s grasp did not escape Kale’s attention. “What happened to you?” he whispered. The teen currently reminded him of the scared young man they had first brought back to Coruscant, only this time, he was willing to accept his father’s comfort.
X
“Neither of you know what happened?” Qui-Gon asked.
Jes shook her head. “We were inside the shop looking at the merchandise when Garen sensed something was wrong.”
Chlee looked at her apprentice. “Padawan, can you think of anything he may have said or done that could be linked to this attack?”
Knowing what was expected of him, Garen called on the force to help him remember with clarity the day’s events. Several moments passed before he spoke. “Several blocks before, he was shook up by something he’d seen. He tried to show me, but I didn’t see it. He had this panicked look about him…disbelief… fear even. It took until we reached the shop just for him to calm down. By the time he went to get lunch, he had shaken it off.”
Before Qui-Gon could question him, Garen said, “He never told me what it was. He never named it.”
X
Several hours had passed when Qui-Gon came into the sleeping teen’s room. Kale gestured with his free hand for the other to have a seat. “Did you find out anything?” he whispered.
“No. Until he wakes up, there’s not much to go on.”
The figure in the bed stirred, his features tightened as he tried to warn off the unseen foe coming toward him. Both Jedi tried unsuccessfully to wake him; the teen was held captive in the throes of his nightmare. His body struggled as if it were be | |