Author Topic: Betrayal (Obi/Qui angst - very AU) Updated 11/2/09
dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 4:06am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/6
Okay, it's Thursday and you know what that means...
Last time we saw Obi-Wan, he had just had a run-in with Anakin and was not happy with the result...he is now going back to face Atel and those darn Standards of Behavior.


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It was a very weary Obi-Wan that made his way back to their rooms. He hesitated outside his door, realizing that there was still the matter of Atel's dilemma to be handled. Sighing, he closed his eyes briefly, centering himself and made his way in. His Padawan was not waiting for him inside. Looking to see if she was still meditating in the adjoining room, he peered in. Atel was quietly snoring, sprawled as always across her bed. As much as he should have awakened her and cleared the air, he could not. He had had enough emotional entanglement this day to last him a lifetime.

He closed the door quietly. Tossing his cloak onto the single chair, he made his way back to his bed, and sank down thankfully. Moving to pull his boots off, he stopped a moment, hunching down, the heels of his hands pressing into his eyes, trying to wipe away the roiling emotions that had stained his day in charcoal and ebony. They kept clouding his thoughts, buzzing like quarrel gnats, distracting him. Meditation called him, beckoned him to find his calm center but he had one more task to do before he could relax into that quiet.

As promised, Atel had left her datapad on his pillow. After changing into sleep pants, Obi-Wan leaned back and began to read. The revisions in the Standards in Jedi Behavior were extensive; some items were merely wording changes with subtle distinctions but others had been totally obliterated, remolded to mean something entirely different. By the time he had scrolled to the section on mission directives and perused the files, he was fuming and indignant.

His Padawan had been quite correct. She was expected to divulge his error to the Council or their staff, as soon as he had made it. But it was more than that. The Standards had changed to such an extent that any slight error in judgment, deliberate or accidentally, was met with harsh discipline, punishment far more severe than the error would merit.

Obi-Wan leaned his head against the thin wall, frowning. When had the Order become so twisted? Compassion and justice were the pillars on which the Jedi Order was founded. Now, it seemed that the members of the Temple were compelled to turn on their fellow Jedi at the first sign of trouble. No, it was more than that. It was treachery that was expected, pure and simple. The Council wanted to foster a system where betrayal of trust was anticipated, condoned and for...what? Expediency, control? He wasn't sure but he didn't like it. Not at all.

The door creaked opened and a very sleep-ridden Atel peered into the tiny room. "Master, is there something wrong? I felt that you were upset."

"It's been a trying day. I'm in sore need of meditation and I need to think about a few things first. I'm sorry that I woke you." He gestured for her to sit but instead, she walked over and knelt before him.

"That's okay." She bowed her head, looking away shyly. "I waited as long as I could."

"Padawan, it is late and I understand the need for sleep." He tried to make his voice light, to give her space to say what she must. "Have you decided what to do?"

"Yes, Master. I have." Atel hesitated, head bent, eyes searching the floor for calm. "I am still upset about your decisions regarding Master Jinn. However, I cannot destroy your life over this. It doesn't feel right." She looked up, unsure, but then she seemed to gather courage and said immovably. "But, I must warn you, Master Obi-Wan. I cannot continue to ignore any further infractions. I must obey the Code and the Standards. I'm sorry." Her eyes pleaded for understanding.

"Atel, you must do what you think is right. I must do that as well. Let's hope that the two rights are on the same path next time." She nodded, unhappy but reconciled to her decision.

He glanced at her, kneeling so small and forlorn on the floor. He knew that it hurt her to ignore the rules but she had a kind heart. Someday soon, she would make a great Knight. Filled with a sudden sadness for his lonely future without her, he reached down and pulled her up to sit next to him. He looked for a moment at her disheveled appearance, then began to grin.

She leaned away, disconcerted. "What?"

"You need a haircut, Padawan. It's getting a bit...well, ratty. And it's sticking straight up in the back."

She just glared at him and said slowly, distinctly. "I was asleep." She tried to push her hair into order but failed miserably. "Besides, you don't look so good yourself. You need to rest, my Master."

"Yes, I do." He sighed heavily. "You know that, although we may not always agree, I will miss you very much when you become a knight, Atel."

"That's a long time from now, Master."

"Not so long. Some knights are nearly your age. Before you know it, you will be off on your own missions."

She just rolled her eyes at him, then snorted. "Okay, when you start getting this maudlin, I know it's time for you to sleep. We'll talk tomorrow." Shaking her head, she strode to the door, stepped into her room and, closing her door, said a quiet "Good night".

Obi-Wan just stared after her, muttering. "I already miss the gangling knobby-kneed girl." Shrugging, he moved into the classic meditation position and began to search for calm in this cauldron of emotion. It was a very long time in coming.

 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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Jane Jinn  7128 posts
Registered: Jan '00
6366_Kit Fisto
Date Posted: 4/10/03 5:45am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
I liked the description of the way the Standards had been changed; some items were merely wording changes with subtle distinctions but others had been totally obliterated, remolded to mean something entirely different. The vise is tightening!

At least Obi-Wan is left wondering what happened to compassion and justice. He's starting to understand that the Order now expects and actually condones treachery and betrayal in their ranks. It's sad that Atel doesn't see the changes as clearly as Obi-Wan does, but she is probably used to the downward spiral. I was relieved that she felt that it's not worth destroying Obi-Wan's life over -- this time. Interesting phrase that she uses there, destroying his life. There's still a small spark of decency in her ... how long before it's snuffed out?

Atel, you must do what you think is right. I must do that as well. Let's hope that the two rights are on the same path next time. Not to coin a phrase or anything, but I have a bad feeling about this.

I'm sure I judge Atel more harshly than Obi-Wan does. He's thinking about her kind heart, and the child she used to be. That's sweet, but ...

 

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JediNemesis  4688 posts
Registered: Mar '03
50892_NaNo 7
Date Posted: 4/10/03 9:31am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
.. we must hope that the two rights are on the same path next time...

There's going to BE a next time. I can feel it. After all, strict rules and Obi-Wan do not always mix.

Atel now added to the list of people I feel sorry for. She's torn between her duty to her Order and her Master - one bond close, the other further and higher. (I know I've put it really badly, but.)

Monday seems an age away. Actually, I'll probably be back before then.

Nemesis wink

 

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Shaindl  3140 posts
Registered: Jun '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 9:54am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Oh, Diane, you do despair so well.

Atel's beginning to get to me a little. I understand that she's been indoctrinated by the Order, but really, there comes a time when when you have to stand up and decide what's right as opposed to what the rules are. Methinks she'll have to make a pretty big decision between her heart and the Order sometime soon.

Wonderful post - and your descriptions (like I said on my thread) are to die for. BTW, thanks for your lovely words on my story!

Shaindl

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 3:42pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Hi JaneJinn You were my very first response this morning! Thanks!

Ah yes, the Standards. How often do we get a piece of mail that says we should look at it and we see such fine print that it goes into the pile of never-seen-again!!? Obi-Wan should be fuming because the Order - or rather the evil forces behind this - are tightening the vice and no one is paying attention!!! Truly insidious...

It's sad that Atel doesn't see the changes as clearly as Obi-Wan does, but she is probably used to the downward spiral -Just so Jane. For her, this is normal. She probably thinks very little of it until she realizes that someone she cares about could be hurt by it. She is confused by her Master's frustration and disgust over the Standards. Surely the Order and the Jedi Masters must be wise enough to have put the rules out.

A bad feeling Jane - oh, you could say that...

As for his remembering the gangly girl, how often do you look at people and have the memories of other days color your perception of the now? I do. Obi-Wan does have a fatherly feeling toward Atel but, as always, he is caught between a rock and a hard place...

Thanks for your comments. They always make me think!!

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 3:46pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Hi JediNemesis - Ah, yes. Hopefully Obi-Wan will realize what is truly going on before it is too late. Don't forget though that it has only been the first day in the investigation. He has much, much more to uncover....

As for Monday...we will be remembering, on that day, that the Jedi Order is not the most evil thing in the universe....yes, the Sith are back and they've been busy...


<evil snicker>

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 3:59pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
OH Shaindl thanks for the Oh, Diane, you do despair so well.. I wish I did it half so well as your last post. You really did make me cry and I hardly cry at anything anymore. You hurt my heart!!

As for Atel, keep in mind like I told JediNemesis it has only been one day. She's really confused at her Master's response. He's never done this before - why should he start now? Besides, how many people do you know that spout rules and regulations when they should be talking about kindness, joy and compassion? I've come across way too many...

Yes, a decision between her heart and the Order. I wonder which she would pick...

your descriptions (like I said on my thread) are to die for. - Oh, I like that!! Watch out for the next chapter if you like description. I'm very pleased with it.

As for my comments on your story, Roads we travel shatter and split - they were well-deserved! I am waiting with great anticipation for your next post! Go, Garen!!




 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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LuvEwan  4689 posts
Registered: Mar '02
48923_Obi-Wan Kenobi (719097)
Date Posted: 4/10/03 4:08pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Aw, sweet post, if you overlook the foreboding and dark fringes. laugh

You describe Obi's weariness beautifully, as you do Atel's devotion.

I knew she'd make the right choice.

grin

And the Jedi are so twisted it's sickening. I can't believe how much they've changed! [face_shocked] You've written their descent into corruption believably. And, of course, Obi's disgust and horror at these changes.

Still lovin' it. love

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/10/03 6:58pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10 - Date Edited: 4/11/03 7:22pm (1 edits total) Edited By: dianethx
Yes, a sweet post, LuvEwan - I couldn't have everything be gloom and doom. Besides, I had to let people know that Obi-Wan and Atel do care for each other, even when they are arguing....

And you think the Jedi are corrupt...let's be reminded of what the Sith are doing....<hee...hee> on Monday.

I'm so glad that you are still lovin' it.. Diane wipes her worried brow...

 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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forever_jedi  9318 posts
Registered: Jun '02
39903_Obi-Wan Kenobi
Date Posted: 4/10/03 9:00pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Really nice interlude between Master and padawan - especially when there is a foreboding feeling in the air that these interludes may disappear in the future. I can't really blame Atel - she has been taught to respect her elders and the Code, so, there is no reason for her to be defiant, all of a sudden. It seems that she has a good heart, since she was actually able to make the right choice for the time being. Hopefully, the Force will speak to her in the future, too. Obi-Wan seems lonely - it is clear that he had a lonely life after Qui-Gon was "fired", as well as many friends and well-wishers (Mace), and now he dreads losing Atel too.

 

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Healer_Leona  36853 posts
Title: Manager Emeritus
Registered: Jul '00
8059_Qui-Gon Jinn
Date Posted: 4/11/03 4:44am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
*shivers* Very scary picture you paint with the new and improved Standards of Behavior. Watch your neighbor and all huh and if he doesn't fit with the approved formula turn him in??? Sounds a bit too familiar and close to home.

"It doesn't feel right." Yay, she's using her Force-granted senses. m Her eyes pleaded for understanding. -- pleading for him to be sneakier in his ways perhaps???

. Filled with a sudden sadness for his lonely future without her...-- I feel more sadness that she's growning up in such a twisted enviornment. I can't blame Atel for being so blind to what's been happening to the Jedi Order... I do wonder at how Obi-Wan hasn't noticed the very distinct changes that have been happening around him? What he's read now should make any Jedi sit up and take notice and begin to take a deeper look into the workings of the Order and see the rot there.

Superb post as always!! happy happy

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/11/03 7:39pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
forever_jedi - I'm glad you liked the little interlude. I try and intersperse quiet moments between all the gloom and doom to give the reader a slight rest, all the while trying to give more information so that you aren't completely bored!

Atel does have a good heart but there will be some decisions to make.

As for Obi-Wan being lonely, I'm sure he is. Actually, I would think that being a Jedi, in general, would be a fairly lonely business. Doing important work while being isolated from others who would understand your needs for meditation, quiet and communion with the Force must be difficult, even when the Council supports you. How much more difficult is it when they seek to find fault at every turn and you have no one but an apprentice that may not agree with your methods or your goals.

Probably his only real solace is his connection with the Force....

Monday is Sith day....

 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/11/03 7:55pm Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Hi again Healer_Leona. I'm glad you 'liked' my new and improved Standards of Behavior. I did try to make it seem familiar - it is really if you think about repressive societies or governments and how they go about things - one little step at a time...


As for Atel's eyes pleading for understanding, it could be that she is pleading for him to follow the rules because she really doesn't want to turn him in, doesn't want to hurt him but duty must come first.

A lonely future. I can't really see the Order letting him ever have another Padawan. But I can see them sending Obi-Wan off on more and more dangerous missions until he makes a fatal mistake.

As for the twisted environment, they are accelerating. I'm sure that the little steps have become giant leaps as the Sith agent realizes that they can get away with it...and no one says a word... It's only now that Obi-wan has been able to step back and see the huge changes in the past ten years as he compares his life with Qui-Gon's.

Oh superb post...I like that. Hope you always feel that way!!!

 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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Sheila  1953 posts
Registered: Oct '02
14377_Jedi Kermit
Date Posted: 4/12/03 6:30am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
I have finally caught up after my week long absence. This story just gets better and better dianethx. It is heartbreaking to witness Obi-Wan's dilemma. What does a person do when the Order they have dedicated their entire life to is no longer worthy of that dedication?

Obi-Wan has seen both sides of the Jedi whereas Atel has pretty much grown up under the new Order. I can't help but wonder what would have happened to Qui-Gon if he had not been let go 10 years earlier. He would have faced the same dilemma at some point.

The only real villains in the story seem to be the Jedi Order and the Senate, both representing a corrupt regime at this point. I love what you are doing with this story. It is very original. I don't see any easy answers for Obi-Wan.

As for you posting twice a week, I think that is a great idea. Although I love daily posts, it would be a shock when they completely dried up.

 

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dianethx  14888 posts
Registered: Mar '02
Date Posted: 4/13/03 10:48am Subject: RE: Betrayal (Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon angst - very AU) Updated on 4/10
Welcome back Sheila! I'm glad that you are enjoying the story so much. Yes, poor Obi-Wan. He is in quite a dilemma and will be getting deeper fairly soon. As for Qui-Gon, I think that he would have left the Order much sooner as he saw the decay begin to accelerate, especially if he felt he could do nothing about it!

The real villains...well, there are villains and then there are Villains. Yes, the Jedi are going down quickly into the bureaucratic and treacherous morass of rules and regulations fit to strangle anyone who opposes them but the REAL villains are about to reappear in the next chapter!!

The twice weekly posts seem to be working well but I will have to give you shorter posts to lengthen the time a bit. I'm writing as fast as I can but it just seems to be like sloughing through quicksand - two steps forward and one back (as I'm sure it is for most authors)....


More on Monday

 

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Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09
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